Three-Wheel Mobility Vehicle Segmented Coupling Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric mobility vehicles (EMVs) often compromise on stability, ease of assembly/disassembly, and user accessibility, failing to cater to individuals with disabilities, recreational users, and industrial needs simultaneously, as they are either too bulky, unstable, or require complex balancing skills.
Innovation Solution
A three-wheel, battery-powered electric vehicle with a conical coupling assembly and stand system that allows for easy assembly and disassembly without tools, featuring a folding steering column, detachable seat, and self-contained battery box, enabling users to stand or sit comfortably and facilitating transport into various vehicle sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the EMV is designed to be smaller and lighter for easier transport, then ease of transport is improved, but stability and speed handling capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into two major separable parts: a front steering assembly and a rear chassis assembly. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently - the front assembly can be lighter for easier handling during assembly/disassembly, while the rear chassis can be designed with greater stability characteristics. The modular design enables transport of smaller, lighter components while maintaining overall vehicle stability when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to the coupling mechanism through the conical coupling assembly with alignment pins. The conical shape provides self-alignment in the vertical axis, while the alignment pins ensure precise horizontal positioning. This multi-dimensional coupling approach allows for stable connection despite variations in assembly height or positioning, effectively adding dimensional tolerance to the system.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the EMV is designed to be bulky for stability and speed handling, then stability is improved, but ease of transport and assembly deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the vehicle into modular segments (front steering assembly and rear chassis), the patent enables stable design characteristics in each segment while simplifying assembly operations. The front assembly with integrated handlebars and controls can be designed for ease of assembly, while the rear chassis provides structural stability. This modular approach resolves the contradiction by allowing optimization of stability without compromising assembly ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The conical coupling assembly with alignment pins provides self-aligning and self-locking functionality during assembly. The conical shape automatically guides the coupling components into proper alignment, and the knurled surface provides friction-based self-locking without requiring additional fasteners or complex adjustment mechanisms. This self-service feature significantly simplifies the assembly process while maintaining connection stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wheel chairs are used for disabled individuals, then accessibility for disabled individuals is improved, but versatility for recreational and industrial use deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is designed with universal features that serve multiple user groups and applications. The adjustable handlebars accommodate users of different heights and abilities, the platform can function as either a seated or standing vehicle, and the modular design allows customization for different uses (disability assistance, recreation, industrial transport). This multi-functionality enables a single vehicle design to serve diverse purposes and user populations effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle incorporates dynamic adjustability features including adjustable handlebar height and angle, removable seat options, and adjustable footrest positions. These dynamic elements allow the vehicle to adapt to different user needs and operating conditions, transitioning between configurations for disabled users, recreational riders, and industrial applications. The ability to reconfigure the vehicle dynamically enhances its versatility across different user groups.
4Ease of operation
If external carriers and lifts are used to transport mobility vehicles, then transport capability is improved, but device complexity and cost deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's segmentation into two major assemblies (front steering and rear chassis) that can be easily connected and disconnected eliminates the need for external carriers and lifts. Each assembly is designed to be manageable in size and weight for typical users, allowing direct handling and transport without requiring complex external equipment. This inherent divisibility of the vehicle structure replaces the need for separate transport systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A three wheeled stand-up or sit down portable two part personal mobility vehicle suited to fulfilling the needs of a broad spectrum of drivers including the handicapped having walking disabilities and recreational users. The vehicle is configured to easily fold and collapse without the use of tools to thereby provide a convenient way for all people, including the handicapped or those lacking normal strength, to handle and store their vehicle. The folding mechanism is implemented with the steering column of the vehicle and enables the handlebar assembly to easily fold downward.