Wheel Module Layout for Compact In-Wheel Steering and Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel modules in vehicles, particularly those with in-wheel motor systems, face challenges in achieving a compact structural design due to the integration of steering, braking, and suspension systems, which occupy significant space and require efficient component arrangement.
Innovation Solution
A wheel module design that includes a wheel assembly with a road wheel, drive motor, and brake, a frame portion with a lower arm and knuckle, and a steering motor coupled to the vehicle body, optimizing the arrangement to minimize space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If steering system, braking system, and suspension system are integrated into a single road wheel, then space utilization within the vehicle is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the steering system, braking system, and suspension system into a single wheel module assembly. The in-wheel motor provides both drive and steering functions, the brake is positioned within the wheel assembly, and the suspension components are consolidated in the lower arm structure. This merging of multiple systems into one compact unit maximizes space utilization while managing complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel module is designed as a multi-functional unit where a single component structure serves multiple purposes. The lower arm acts as both a suspension link and a mounting structure for steering components. The in-wheel motor provides both propulsion and steering torque. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby improving space utilization.
2Area of stationary object
If in-wheel motor system is used, then space within vehicle is utilized more efficiently, but component arrangement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake is positioned within the hollow space of the in-wheel motor housing, and the lower arm suspension components are arranged within the space defined by the wheel assembly. This nested arrangement allows multiple components to occupy overlapping or hierarchical spaces, maximizing the utilization of available volume while managing component arrangement complexity through spatial optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
The present embodiments provide a wheel module and an automotive vehicle comprising same, the wheel module comprising: a wheel assembly comprising a road wheel, a driving motor, and a brake; a frame unit comprising a lower arm which couples to a vehicle body, a knuckle to which the wheel assembly is coupled, and which is rotatably coupled to the lower arm, and a suspension; and a steering motor which couples to the vehicle body and rotates the frame unit.