Hyundai and its subsidiary Kia have developed a new wheel hub drive. The main aim of the “Uni Wheel” is to gain more space in the interior of electric cars, also with a view to seating concepts for autonomous driving.
In addition, new possibilities are created in the construction of special vehicles. By moving the reduction gear into the wheel hub and placing a compact motor near each wheel, the length of the drive shafts is reduced and a flat vehicle floor is possible. How the drive worksThe Uni Wheel uses a special planetary gear configuration consisting of a sun gear in the Center, four pinions on each side and a rotating ring gear. The energy generated by the motor is transferred to the sun gear, which then rotates the ring gear via the pinions. This is connected to the wheel and drives the vehicle. The pinions are connected to each other and allow multi-axis movement and different types of wheel suspension. Because of the high torque, a more compact electric motor can also be used. In addition to vehicles of various sizes, Uni Wheel can also be used on other types of mobility aids such as wheelchairs, bicycles and delivery robots. The system is scalable and can be used with wheel sizes from four to 25 inches or more. The ability to move the rotation axis of the wheel also makes mobility aids possible that enable stair climbing.Hyundai Motor and Kia have applied for and registered eight patents in South Korea, the USA and Europe for their new drive concept. (aum)
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