Author(s)

Qasim M. Ajao^1*, Lanre G. Sadeeq¹, Olukotun Oludamilare¹, Steven Letendre²

¹Department of Electrical Engineering, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Georgia, USA.
²Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, Seattle, Washington DC, USA.

This paper introduces a novel approach to drive system design for compact autonomous electric vehicles (AEVs) by utilizing topology optimization and simulation techniques. The primary goal is to develop an efficient and lightweight drive system that improves vehicle performance, taking into account the specific requirements of autonomy and electric propulsion. The design process incorporates topology optimization to systematically explore different configurations and material distributions, with the aim of maximizing structural integrity and efficiency. Simulation tools are employed to evaluate performance and validate the optimized design. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this methodology in creating an optimized drive system that meets the needs of compact AEVs. Furthermore, this study focuses on the motor-drive axle integrated driving scheme to enhance the driving efficiency of AEVs. The paper addresses this challenge by carefully considering power matching and transmission ratio calculations based on the performance characteristics of compact AEVs, resulting in a determined total gear ratio of 8.124. To further enhance overall performance & efficiency, a 2-stage retarder system is developed.

Autonomous Electric Vehicles, EV Drive Simulation, Drive Cycles, Self-Driving Vehicles, Stress Simulation, Topology, Optimize Drive

Ajao, Q.M., Sadeeq, L.G., Oludamilare, O. and Letendre, S. (2023) Topology-Optimized and Simulation-Driven Design for Compact Autonomous Electric Vehicle Drive Systems: A Novel Approach. Open Access Library Journal, 10, 1-19. doi: 10.4236/oalib.1110270.