In-wheel motors are an old idea as well as a visionary solution for future powertrains and an interesting concept toward vehicle electrification that provides also high potentials to improve vehicle dynamics and handling. In-wheel motors constitute the shortest possible powertrain. In comparison with a conventional powertrain architecture with central motor, less mechanical components are needed and some electric components are added (battery, inverter, electric motors). Due to the higher efficiency of the used components the entire efficiency of the powertrain can be improved. However, in-wheel motors are also related with some open questions like the effect of the increased non-suspended masses on ride comfort and driving safety, the mechanical integration of the components in the wheel and the fail-safe behavior. Moreover, since in-wheel motors are placed directly within the rim, they are exposed to strong environmental working conditions comprising, for example, mechanical vibrations induced by the road unevenness, an abrasive atmosphere (e.g. dust and water) or difficult cooling conditions for the electric components. Furthermore, complex algorithms are needed to control the additional degrees of freedom introduced by in-wheel motors and effectively profit from their advantages. This thesis offers a systematic, founded and wide analysis of in-wheel motors for applications in electric passenger vehicles with the aim of giving answer to some of the open questions related with this technology. With the objective to determine the main characteristics of the battery as well as of induction and synchronous electric motors, an approach based on performance requirements given for different vehicle classes is introduced. Furthermore, the potentials and limitations of in-wheel motors to enhance the lateral vehicle dynamics are determined, and the effect of the related increased nonsuspended masses on ride comfort and driving safety are extensively analyzed. Therefor, a theoretical approach complemented by the subjective perception of normal drivers and experienced test drivers while driving with a vehicle with increased non-suspended masses is introduced. Finally, a novel automated approach for the mechanical integration of in-wheel motors in modern single wheel suspension systems is presented.
Passenger Vehicles with In-Wheel Motors. Fundamentals, Potentials and Limitations
Monographic Series TU Graz, Reihe Fahrzeugtechnik ; 2 ; XXVI-285
2012
286 Seiten, 118 Bilder, 32 Tabellen, Quellen
Theses
English
Comfort and Safety Enhancement of Passenger Vehicles with In-Wheel Motors
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