Design Challenge - March 2011

visionengineering

A hybrid is a result of crossing two different species. That’s what we have done. We started with a classic telehandler that is able to place various loads, often very high up, and then combined it with a mobile platform, enabling numerous functions in high places. The result is a vehicle able to work high up, using various tools, over a wide area. As soon as the vehicle is stabilised on the ground, it is capable of a wide spectrum of functions. If necessary, the vehicle is able to rotate 360°, due to the peculiar geometry of its wheels. The same architecture enables the vehicle to remain stable on the ground, to move using crab steer, or use the front or the rear wheels to go in the required direction. But hybridisation doesn’t stop there. We used it for the drivetrain too, choosing to go electric and employing a battery to provide electricity to the four wheel motors, combined with a hydraulic system to operate the cylinders. Via accumulators and a torque converter, the movement of the hydraulic cylinders is converted into electricity as shown in the diagram above, which is then used to help power the vehicle when the need arises. The outcome of this design is an asymmetric vehicle with improved stability and weight distribution, organised around the telescopic arm. The hybrid telehandler’s front and rear chassis sections are designed to provide a lot of space so that the wheels can turn freely.

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BIOGRAPHY

Joeri de Vriesere has worked as a designer for European OEMs since 1999. He founded his independent design and engineering office, which specialises in industrial vehicles, in 2005

CONTACT DETAILS

Email: joeri@vision-eng.be

Website: www.vision-eng.be