Abstract
As a means of adding value to electric vehicles (EVs), new control methods have been investigated for EVs equipped with in-wheel motors (IWMs). As part of our project to reduce the energy usage of vehicles and add value of vehicle dynamics, we are carrying out research and development of the thin IWM units needed to validate this concept. We have been investigating face gears, which offer a large speed reduction using just a single pair of gears. The face gear is directly attached to the wheel axle and the pinion is on the motor axle. Placing the wheel axle at a right angle to the motor axle allows efficient use of the space in the open center of the face gear, allowing a very thin unit to be designed. The capabilities of the IWM unit manufactured in this study were assessed on a test bench and its efficiency and noise while powered were evaluated. The results revealed that the torque of the motor was as high as controlling EVs.
