Trailer E-Drive Axle With Regenerative Energy Storage for Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fuel-efficient vehicles face challenges with limited charging infrastructure and reduced driving range when towing trailers, leading to driver anxiety and the need for improved energy generation and storage solutions.
Innovation Solution
An e-drive kit for trailers, comprising a motorized axle, energy storage devices, and a controller, which transfers energy generated by the wheels to storage, monitors driving maneuvers, and actuates the wheels to enhance efficiency and range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a trailer is attached to the vehicle, then the vehicle can transport additional loads, but the driving range is reduced due to heavier load and limited energy availability
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the energy storage function into two separate systems: the vehicle's native battery and the trailer's independent energy storage devices. This segmentation allows each system to operate independently, with the trailer's energy storage providing additional range without increasing the vehicle's load and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer acts as an intermediary energy carrier between charging stations and the vehicle. The trailer's energy storage devices store energy when the trailer is stationary or being towed, and can supply energy to the vehicle when needed, effectively extending the vehicle's range without requiring the vehicle itself to carry additional energy storage weight.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the vehicle uses native battery to power remote devices during outdoor activities, then energy availability increases, but charging frequency increases due to limited driving range
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary energy storage by charging the trailer's energy storage devices during periods when the vehicle is stationary or being towed. This preliminary action ensures that energy is available when needed for remote devices or to extend driving range, reducing the need for frequent charging stops.
Solution Approach 2:
The dual energy storage system enables continuous energy supply by coordinating between the vehicle's native battery and the trailer's energy storage devices. The system can seamlessly switch between energy sources and even transfer energy between them, ensuring continuous operation without frequent interruptions for charging.
3Productivity
If quick-charge stations are used to reduce charging time, then energy replenishment speed increases, but the limited number of stations in convenient locations reduces accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The trailer's energy storage devices serve multiple functions: they can be charged from the vehicle's native battery, from external power sources when the trailer is stationary, and can supply energy back to the vehicle. This multi-functionality reduces dependence on external quick-charge stations while maintaining flexible energy management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service energy management where the vehicle and trailer can charge each other's energy storage devices. The controller monitors energy levels and automatically manages energy transfer between the vehicle battery and trailer energy storage, reducing the need for external charging infrastructure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The e-drive kit provides additional power to trailers, reduces charging frequency, extends vehicle range, and enhances safety and dynamics by integrating regenerative braking and renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
The controller may be configured to control the motorized axle to transfer energy generated by the one or more wheels to the plurality of energy storage devices for storage of the transferred energy
Data Source
AI summary
A system for providing an e-drive kit for a trailer connected to a towing vehicle. The system includes a motorized axle, a plurality of energy storage devices, and a controller coupled to the motorized axle and the plurality of energy storage devices. The motorized axle may be configured to control one or more wheels connected to the motorized axle. The controller may be configured to control the motorized axle to transfer energy generated by the one or more wheels to the plurality of energy storage devices for storage of the transferred energy. The controller may further be configured to receive data indicative of a driving maneuver of the towing vehicle. The controller may further be configured to control the motorized axle to actuate the one or more wheels based on the driving maneuver of the towing vehicle.