Vehicle Generator Motor System for Flexible Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transport installations using traction devices, such as cables, face limitations in operating flexibility and energy efficiency, particularly in urban environments where vehicles must manage varying speeds and routes without complex mechanical systems.
Innovation Solution
The system integrates a vehicle generator and motor system that allows energy storage during traction and autonomous movement, enabling vehicles to travel at different speeds than the traction device, with a simple infrastructure that includes fixed supports and wheels for coupling and decoupling from the traction member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vehicles move at the same speed as the traction cable, then the coupling system is simple, but operating flexibility and energy efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the motor system and generator system into a single integrated power system that can operate in multiple modes. The motor can drive the vehicle when autonomous movement is needed, while the generator can recharge the energy storage system when the vehicle is being pulled by the traction cable, merging propulsion and energy recovery functions into one system
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different operating modes: being pulled by the traction cable, moving autonomously using the motor, or regenerating energy using the generator. This dynamic adaptability allows the vehicle to optimize its operation based on real-time conditions, improving flexibility without requiring complex mechanical speed variation systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If vehicles are equipped with autonomous motor systems, then they can travel at different speeds and navigate bends, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the energy that would be wasted during braking or deceleration into useful electrical energy through the generator system. When the vehicle is pulled by the traction cable or when decelerating, the motor operates as a generator, converting kinetic energy back into electrical energy to recharge the storage system, thus turning energy loss into energy gain
Solution Approach 2:
The system recovers and stores energy during phases when the vehicle is being pulled by the traction cable or during deceleration, then uses this recovered energy to power the motor during autonomous movement phases. This creates a closed-loop energy management system that reduces overall energy consumption from external sources
3Ease of operation
If loading/unloading stations are equipped with additional drive systems, then vehicles can move independently, but infrastructure complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's own motor system and energy storage system enable it to autonomously move into and out of loading/unloading positions without requiring external drive systems at the stations. The vehicle serves its own propulsion needs, eliminating the need for complex station-based mechanical drive systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the propulsion function from the station infrastructure and places it directly on the vehicle itself. By equipping each vehicle with its own motor and energy storage system, the need for external drive systems at loading/unloading stations is eliminated, simplifying the infrastructure while maintaining operational capability
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
This solution enhances operational flexibility and energy efficiency by allowing vehicles to store energy for autonomous travel, optimize transport times, and manage route bends without complex mechanical systems, reducing the need for additional energy sources at loading/unloading stations.
Implementation Method 1
The vehicle generator system includes at least one generator operable to supply power to the storage system when the vehicle is coupled to the draft member and driven along the circuit by the draft member
Implementation Method 2
The motor system of the vehicle comprises at least one motor that can be activated to receive energy from the storage system and to set the vehicle in motion relative to the fixed support
Implementation Method 3
The coupling of the vehicle to the traction cable can be fixed or disengageable. In the disengageable case, a mechanical clamp closes or opens to attach the vehicle to the cable or release it from it
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The transport installation comprises a traction member (15) extending in a circuit and associated with an external power source to be moved along the circuit, a vehicle (20) comprising a power storage system (30), a motor system and a generator system; and a fixed support (18) located adjacent to the circuit. The vehicle generator system includes a generator (32) that can be activated to supply power to the storage system when the vehicle is coupled to the traction member and driven along the circuit by the traction member. The vehicle engine system includes a motor (32) that can be activated to receive power from the storage system and move the vehicle relative to the fixed support.