Wheel Module Reinforcing Structure for Compact Reliable Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel modules in in-wheel systems face challenges with reduced durability and operational reliability due to loads in various directions, increased structure thickness degrading space utilization, and limited maneuverability.
Innovation Solution
A wheel module design featuring a knuckle, steering device, reinforcing structure, and suspension device, with actuators and reinforcing structures connected along multiple axes to stabilize and distribute loads, reducing device size and improving space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the thickness of the structure is increased to secure the stiffness of the wheel module, then the structural stability and durability are improved, but the space utilization of the vehicle is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure extends in multiple directions (longitudinal, lateral, and diagonal) from the wheel module, distributing structural support across three-dimensional space rather than increasing thickness in a single direction. This allows the wheel module to achieve necessary stiffness while maintaining compact overall dimensions and preserving vehicle interior space.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing structure is divided into multiple segments including a first reinforcing structure extending in a first direction and a second reinforcing structure extending in a second direction. This segmentation allows each segment to efficiently bear specific directional loads, achieving overall structural stability without requiring excessive thickness in any single dimension.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices for driving, braking, steering, and suspending are collectively embedded in the wheel module, then the maneuverability and operational control are improved, but the durability and operational reliability are reduced due to loads in various directions
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure acts as an intermediary element that connects the wheel module to the vehicle body, absorbing and distributing loads from driving, braking, steering, and suspension systems. This mediator protects the embedded devices from direct exposure to various directional loads, maintaining their operational reliability while preserving the integrated design's maneuverability benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing structures extend in multiple dimensions (first direction and second direction perpendicular to each other), creating a three-dimensional load distribution network. This multi-dimensional approach disperses stresses away from the embedded devices, preventing load concentration that would compromise their durability while maintaining the functional integration that enables superior maneuverability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wheel module is designed with integrated brake and steering systems, then the steering angle expansion and operational control are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The brake system and steering system are merged into a single integrated wheel module assembly, with both systems sharing common structural elements and mounting points. This consolidation enables coordinated operation for expanded steering angles while reducing the number of separate components, thereby managing overall device complexity despite the enhanced functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel module is designed as a universal platform that simultaneously accommodates driving, braking, steering, and suspension functions. The reinforcing structures serve multiple purposes: providing structural support, distributing loads, and enabling the geometric configuration necessary for large steering angles. This multi-functionality approach integrates complex systems without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A wheel module is disclosed. The wheel module according to the present embodiment includes a knuckle configured to rotatably support a wheel, a steering device including an actuator configured to rotate the knuckle and steer the wheel, and a reinforcing structure provided between the knuckle and a vehicle body, wherein an output shaft of the actuator is disposed parallel to a vertical direction, the reinforcing structure includes a first end rotatably connected to the knuckle along a first axis parallel to the vertical direction and a second end connected to the vehicle body, and a rotation axis of the output shaft and the first axis are coaxially provided.