Engine idling stop control system and method with starter motor protection

Abstract

A system and method for controlling engine idle stop in a hybrid vehicle that uses predictive information to schedule engine stops with relatively longer stop duration time to gain more fuel savings and extend life of starter motor. More specifically, predictive information may be used to determine potential vehicle stop events, along with corresponding stop duration times, within a time window. An engine stop scheduler and / or controller may be configured to schedule stops of longer duration for optimal total engine stop time. Similarly, taking into account constraints imposed by the thermal limits of the motor, engine stop may be inhibited for predicted short events to allow engine stop at later longer stop events.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicles having an engine auto-stop feature and controlled engine idle stop and restart activity with starter motor protection. Background technique [0002] Hybrid vehicles may be equipped with an automatic engine stop system. The automatic engine stop system shuts off the engine during certain periods of the car's operation to save fuel. For example, when a vehicle stops at a traffic light or encounters a traffic jam, an automatic engine stop may intervene instead of allowing the engine to idle. The engine can be restarted when the driver releases the brake pedal or actuates the accelerator pedal. The engine may also be started, for example, due to a load on the electrical system. Stopping the engine when it is not needed improves fuel economy and reduces emissions. [0003] Automatic engine stop systems also encounter various challenges. For example, frequent engine stop / start events can cause driver discomfort...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

For example, frequent engine stop / start events can cause driver discomfort and starter motor overheating

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