Intelligent hybrid powertrain system for combine harvester

Abstract

Embodiments of a smart hybrid powertrain system (12) include an engine (74), a controller architecture (16), and an electric drive subsystem (72) having a battery power source (88) and a motor / generator (82). The controller architecture (16) is configured to: (i) monitor a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source (88) as the combine harvester (10) enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; (ii) operate the motor / generator (82) to supplement engine power output and to regulate a rate of battery discharge during the tank filling phase to prevent the current SoC of the battery power source (88) from decreasing below a predetermined SoC lower threshold (148) before the tank filling phase is completed; and (iii) operate the motor / generator (82) to charge the battery power source (88) during the tank unloading phase until the current SoC of the battery power source is equal to or greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold (148).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an intelligent hybrid powertrain system that optimizes various aspects of combine harvester performance while enabling downsizing of the internal combustion engine. BACKGROUND

[0002] Combine harvesters (also referred to as "agricultural combine harvesters") greatly increase the efficiency of harvesting, threshing, cleaning, and collecting corn, rapeseed, soybeans, wheat, oats, rice, sunflowers, and other crops for distribution to consumers. Generally speaking, a combine harvester is a relatively complex self-propelled machine that is capable of harvesting large swaths of crops while separating unbroken grain from broken grain and material other than grain (MOG) as the harvester travels over the crop field. After cleaning, the harvested grain is delivered into a grain tank (typically by being conveyed through a cleaning grain elevator). When the grain tank is filled, the harvested grain is then unloaded from the combine harvester through a grain unloading auger. Specifically, the combine harvester can unload grain to a grain transport vehicle, such as a grain cart or truck, either while the combine harvester is stationary (static unloading) or while the combine harvester continues to actively harvest (active unloading). This process of repeatedly filling and unloading the grain tank is referred to herein as a "combine harvester harvesting cycle." The propulsion, grain unloading, and various crop material handling functions of a combine harvester are typically powered using a single internal combustion engine (such as a heavy-duty diesel engine) on the combine harvester. Generally speaking, the size of the combine harvester engine is determined to provide sufficient power output capability to accommodate relatively heavy or demanding engine load conditions that can be periodically encountered when ingesting and processing relatively dense (high yield) crops, when harvesting on an uphill grade, and during active unloading of the combine harvester. SUMMARY

[0003] An intelligent hybrid powertrain system for use on a combine harvester is disclosed. Embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system include an engine configured to produce an engine power output for powering propulsion and grain tank unloading functions of the combine harvester, a controller architecture, and an electric drive subsystem. The electric drive subsystem in turn includes a battery power source and a motor / generator configured to be selectively powered by the battery power source to supplement the engine power output or by the engine to charge the battery power source. With the controller architecture coupled to the battery power source and the engine, the controller architecture is configured to: (i) monitor a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source as the combine harvester enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; (ii) operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output and to regulate a rate of battery discharge during the tank filling phase to prevent the current SoC of the battery power source from decreasing below a predetermined SoC lower threshold value before the tank filling phase is completed; and (iii) operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during the tank unloading phase until the current SoC of the battery power source is equal to or greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold value, thereby enabling the combine harvester harvesting cycle to be repeated.

[0004] In further embodiments, the intelligent hybrid powertrain system includes an engine configured to produce an engine power output for powering propulsion and grain tank unloading functions of the combine harvester, an on-board sensor configured to provide data indicative of a fill level of the grain tank, and an electric drive subsystem having a battery power source and a motor / generator powered by the battery power source to supplement the engine power output or by the engine to charge the battery power source. A controller architecture is coupled to the on-board sensor and to the electric drive subsystem. The controller architecture is configured to: (i) monitor a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source as the combine harvester enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; (ii) operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output and to regulate a rate of battery discharge during the tank filling phase to maintain the current SoC at or above a dynamic SoC minimum value having a value that varies in relation to the current fill level of the grain tank; and (iii) operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during the tank unloading phase.

[0005] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] At least one example of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the following drawings:

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a combine harvester equipped with a smart hybrid powertrain, in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0008] Figure 2 is a more detailed schematic illustration of an example embodiment of a smart hybrid powertrain, and includes, among other components, an engine, an electric drive subsystem, and processing components that collectively form a processing subsystem or controller architecture;

[0009] Figure 3 is a flowchart of an example method of actively switching the electric drive subsystem between different operating modes, as appropriately implemented by the controller architecture of a smart hybrid powertrain Figure 1 and Figure 2

[0010] Figure 4 Figure 5 are graph illustrations showing an example hybrid power management scheme as appropriately applied by the controller architecture of a smart hybrid powertrain Figure 1 and Figure 2

[0011] Figure 6 is a graph plotting a plurality of torque curves, each corresponding to a different state of charge (SoC) range of a rechargeable battery power source, and potentially used by the controller architecture to control the power output of the motor / generator when the electric drive subsystem is operating in a power assist mode;

[0012] Figure 7 is a graph plotting an example manner in which a dynamic SoC floor for constraining discharge of the rechargeable battery power source can be established and actively adjusted by the controller architecture in response to changes in a tank fill level aspect of the combine harvester; and

[0013] Figure 8 Figure 9 are examples of graphics suitably generated on a display device located in a cab of the combine harvester to visually express different parameters related to the smart hybrid powertrain.

[0014] Like reference symbols in different drawings indicate the same elements. The description of well-known features and techniques may be omitted for the sake of brevity and conciseness, and to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the examples and non-limiting embodiments of the application described in the subsequent detailed description, which are illustrative only. It is also to be understood that the features or elements appearing in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, unless otherwise specified. DETAILED DESCRIPTION ​​​​

[0015] Embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings described above. As stated in the attached claims, various modifications to the example embodiments can be conceived by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0016] SUMMARY

[0017] As noted above, modern combine harvesters are typically equipped with heavy-duty diesel or other internal combustion engines sized to accommodate peak engine load demands periodically encountered during combine harvester operation. For example, depending on the overall size and capabilities of the combine harvester, a modern mid-size combine harvester can be equipped with a diesel engine having a maximum rated power output capability in excess of 74 kilowatts (kW). While modern diesel engines can be equipped with various systems for reducing emissions (e.g., exhaust gas recirculation systems) and boosting engine output power (e.g., turbocharging modules), inefficiencies result when the relatively large internal combustion engine is operated at sub-optimal power output levels during a majority of stages of combine harvester operation, including during the combine harvester harvesting cycle (during which the combine harvester performs the actions of collecting grain in a grain tank (herein, the "tank filling stage") and then unloading the grain saved in the grain tank into a grain cart or other grain transport container (herein, the "tank unloading stage") when full). More generally, as the size and maximum rated power output of the internal combustion engine of a combine harvester increases, fuel efficiency levels and emissions tend to worsen. While it can be tempting to simply downsize the diesel engine (or other internal combustion engine) deployed on a particular combine harvester to achieve higher fuel efficiency, save weight and cost, and reduce emissions, using a smaller diesel engine risks insufficient power output availability during heavier engine loads, which can result in stall conditions and other negative outcomes, thereby reducing overall harvesting efficiency and customer satisfaction levels.

[0018] Hybrid powertrains offer the potential for downsizing of internal combustion engines (engines) on combines. In particular, by incorporating an electric machine (e-machine) that can operate as an electric motor, the mechanical power output (shaft speed and torque) of the e-machine can supplement the power output of the engine through a suitable driveline arrangement that adds these mechanical power outputs together. The e-machine can be selectively driven with a suitable battery source or power source (e.g., a battery pack comprising a plurality of interconnected battery cells) contained in an electric drive subsystem. When also capable of being driven in reverse by the engine to generate electric power, the e-machine can be specifically referred to as a “motor / generator,” which electric power can then be used to charge the battery power source when in possession of a rechargeable chemistry such as lithium-ion chemistry or nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA) chemistry. A processing subsystem or “controller architecture” (which can be comprised of any number of individual controllers (e.g., an engine control unit, a power management control unit, and a motor / generator control unit)) can operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output and, in certain conditions, regulate the rate of battery discharge, such as during the bin fill phase of a combine harvesting cycle. For ease of reference, this action is referred to herein as placing the electric drive system in a “power assist mode.” Conversely, the controller architecture can operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source in other conditions, such as during the bin fill phase of a combine harvesting cycle. This is referred to herein as placing the electric drive system in a “rapid charge mode.”

[0019] Embodiments of the present disclosure leverage the capabilities of such an electric drive subsystem to introduce a level of intelligence in strategically switching between operating modes of the electric drive subsystem and in controlling the behavior of the electric drive subsystem when placed in a particular mode during combine operation. For this reason, embodiments of the present disclosure are generally referred to as “intelligent hybrid powertrains.” Embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain include an electric drive subsystem that contains a rechargeable battery power source and an electric machine in the form of a motor / generator. As described above, the electric drive subsystem is operable in (i) a power assist mode in which the motor / generator is driven by the rechargeable battery power source to supplement the power output provided by an engine (e.g., a heavy-duty diesel engine) of the combine and (ii) a rapid charge mode in which the motor / generator is driven in reverse by the engine to charge the rechargeable battery power source. As indicated by the descriptor “rapid” in the term “rapid charge mode,” the rate of battery recharging in the rapid charge mode (R 再充电 ) will generally exceed the rate of battery discharging in the power assist mode (R 放电 ). For example, in certain embodiments, R 放电may have a controlled variable value (e.g., changed by the controller architecture according to a torque profile described below) while R 再充电 may have a substantially constant value that is at least twice the absolute maximum value of R 放电 .

[0020] The controller architecture is also operatively coupled to various components of the electric drive subsystem and determines when to place the electric drive subsystem mode into a power assist mode, a fast charge mode, and potentially other operational modes such as a static or standby operational mode. In certain embodiments, for example, the controller architecture monitors a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source as the combine harvester enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a bin filling phase and a bin unloading phase; operates the motor / generator to supplement engine power output during the bin filling phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle; and further operates the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during the bin unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle. Further, during the bin filling phase, the controller architecture can operate the motor / generator to supplement engine power output while regulating a rate of battery discharge to prevent the current SoC of the battery power source from falling below a predetermined SoC lower threshold value before the bin filling phase is completed. In contrast, during the bin unloading phase, the controller architecture can operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source until the current SoC of the battery power source is equal to or greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold value, thereby enabling the combine harvester harvesting cycle to repeat. The bin unloading phase can occur during a "low power unloading" of the combine harvester. The term "low power unloading" as it appears herein refers to unloading bulk grain from a grain bin of the combine harvester while the combine harvester remains stationary (static unloading) or while the combine harvester travels at a lower speed (e.g., a ground speed of less than one mile per hour (mph)) that is substantially less than a typical ground speed of the combine harvester as the combine harvester enters an active harvesting.

[0021] With the above hybrid power management scheme, embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system enable the combine harvester engine to be downsized to provide enhancements in fuel economy, reduced emissions, cost savings, and other benefits. At the same time, the power limitation problem is addressed through strategic application of the power assist mode during the bin fill phase of the combine harvester's harvesting cycle; and, in particular, by discharging the rechargeable battery power source at a controlled (variable or non-variable) rate to drive the motor / generator and supplement the engine's power output during the bin fill phase of the combine harvester's harvesting cycle. Further, the rate at which the rechargeable battery power source is discharged during the bin fill phase is controlled to ensure adequate power supply during each grain bin fill phase; that is, the combine harvester is made ready for the bin unload phase during the time period in which the combine harvester takes in and processes sufficient crop material to fill or substantially fill the grain bin with bulk grain. Subsequently, during the bin unload phase (e.g., when the combine harvester is stationary or otherwise has a ground speed of less than 1 mph), the controller architecture transitions the electric drive subsystem into operation in the fast charge mode (i.e., operating the motor / generator to charge the battery power source) to take advantage of the relatively low power output demand of the combine harvester (vehicle load) and rapidly recharge the rechargeable battery power source to a level sufficient to repeat the process or cycle described above. Calculations indicate that the battery power source can be rapidly recharged to a sufficient level within a relatively short unload period (typically on the order of about two minutes) to allow this power management cycle to repeat in a substantially indefinite manner. Further, although the rechargeable battery power source is discharged at a slower rate during the bin fill phase of the combine harvester's harvesting cycle, sufficient electrical power can be provided to the motor / generator to provide a sufficient level of power assist to enable a significant reduction in the size of the combine harvester engine, as described below in connection with the following figures. Figure 4 and Figure 5 as further described below.

[0022] As another benefit of the hybrid power management scheme described above, the duration of time that the combine harvester engine operates at higher, optimized speed ranges is extended for further improvements in engine performance, fuel economy, and reduced emissions. For example, consider a conventional non-hybrid powertrain deployed on a combine harvester and including a super large (high power output) diesel engine. In most customer use applications, such a super large engine is typically operated well below its peak power output capability during most active harvesting scenarios, and even more so during low power (e.g., static) unloading of the combine harvester. In contrast, by using a smaller, primary internal combustion engine, embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain enable the engine to operate at higher efficiency power output levels closer to the maximum rated power output of the engine, and within an increasingly optimized axle speed range. Further, during low power unloading of the combine harvester (corresponding to the bin unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle), by further loading the engine to drive the motor / generator in reverse and support the fast charging function described above, the engine shaft output speed of the engine can be maintained at a relatively high, optimized level. Thus, in at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, such an intelligent hybrid power management scheme not only enables down-sizing of the combine harvester engine, but further optimizes engine efficiency by reducing variations in engine shaft output speed and trending the shaft output speed toward optimal speed ranges in the hybrid combine harvester power management cycle.

[0023] When deployed on a combine harvester, the intelligent hybrid powertrain can further be utilized to help minimize or reduce (in layman's terms, "eliminate") the apparent transient changes in engine load conditions. In such embodiments, the controller architecture of the intelligent hybrid powertrain can monitor for temporary spikes or intermissions in engine load conditions by, for example, monitoring the output shaft speed of the engine and / or any additional sensor inputs indicative of the current load placed on the engine. When a transient heavy load condition is detected during which the engine is placed under increased load above an upper engine load threshold (e.g., due to uphill travel, clog clearing, or a temporary increase in the density or consistency of ingested crop material), the controller architecture can increase the level at which the electric drive subsystem supplements engine power output until the transient heavy load condition passes. Conversely, when a light transient load condition is detected during which the engine is temporarily placed under decreased load below a lower engine load threshold (e.g., due to downhill travel or a temporary interruption in the flow of crop material ingested into the combine harvester during a combine harvester harvesting cycle), the controller architecture temporarily places the electric drive subsystem in fast charge mode. While this example hybrid power management scheme is reactive in nature, aspects of the hybrid power management scheme can also be proactive in transitioning between fast charge and power assist modes of operation. For example, when a temporary increase in load placed on the engine is predicted (e.g., due to a separator drum or cylinder being initially spun up in response to operator input commands), the controller architecture can also temporarily place the electric drive subsystem in power assist mode (e.g., contemporaneously with or slightly earlier than activation of the separator drum) to supplement engine power output until the heavy transient load condition passes.

[0024] In further embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain, and in a manner similar to that just described, the controller architecture can operate the motor / generator or otherwise control the electric drive subsystem to facilitate (better maintain) rotation of the engine output shaft within an optimized quasi-isochronous range. Such an optimized speed range of the engine output shaft can be bounded by a lower speed threshold and an upper speed threshold, both of which are stored in a computer-readable memory accessible to the controller architecture. In such embodiments, the controller architecture can place the electric drive subsystem in fast charge mode when the rotational speed of the engine output shaft increases above the upper speed threshold during a combine harvester harvesting cycle; and further place the electric drive subsystem in power assist mode when the rotational speed of the engine output shaft decreases below the lower speed threshold. Again, by enabling the engine output shaft of the engine to rotate within an increasingly optimized consistent speed range during combine harvester operation, or otherwise utilizing the electric drive subsystem to provide load leveling of the combine harvester engine, engine performance and efficiency are enhanced while emissions are reduced.

[0025] Embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system can implement additional functionality to optimize battery storage characteristics, particularly in situations where the given rechargeable battery power source typically possesses a range of optimal state of charge (SoC) that is less than the full storage capacity of the battery power source. Thus, in embodiments, the controller architecture of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system can be configured to monitor the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source during combine harvester operation, and to perform at least one of the following actions: (i) when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source reaches a second predetermined threshold (e.g., a maximum optimal SoC threshold) that is greater than the aforementioned first predetermined threshold stored in the memory accessible to the controller architecture of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system, prevent further charging of the rechargeable battery power source; and (ii) when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source reaches a lower threshold (e.g., a minimum optimal SoC threshold) as further stored in the memory, prevent further discharging of the rechargeable battery power source. As appears herein, reference to preventing further charging or discharging of the battery power source means that additional charging or discharging of the battery power source is completely prevented or at least significantly slowed down as compared to typical charging of the battery power source when the electric drive subsystem is placed in the fast charging mode or typical discharging of the battery power source when the electric drive subsystem is placed in the power assist mode. Notably, in certain embodiments, the electric drive subsystem can be equipped with an energy dissipation mechanism (e.g., a resistor that converts electrical energy to waste heat) electrically coupled between the motor / generator and the rechargeable battery power source, and that can be selectively activated by the controller architecture to implement motor / generator braking of the engine output shaft (e.g., to support the aforementioned isochronous assist mode) while preventing or at least minimizing charging of the rechargeable battery power source when the current SoC of the battery power source approaches or exceeds the maximum optimal SoC threshold.

[0026] In other embodiments of the present disclosure, the controller architecture can further implement other charging and discharging control schemes to enhance hybrid power management and overall performance of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system. For example, in an embodiment, the intelligent hybrid powertrain system can include a memory in which a plurality of torque profiles are stored, with each torque profile being associated with a different SoC range of the rechargeable battery power source. During operation of the intelligent combine powertrain system, the controller architecture monitors the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source and varies the power output of the motor / generator in accordance with a selected one of the plurality of torque profiles that corresponds to the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source. In particular, in the latter aspect, the controller architecture can vary the power output of the motor / generator such that the sum of the power output of the motor / generator and the power output of the engine substantially equals the torque target for the current rotational speed of the engine output shaft, as dictated by the selected torque profile. In this manner, the controller architecture can better conserve or manage the SoC of the rechargeable battery power source while producing the total power output in accordance with torque profiles or tracelines that are familiar to combine operators.

[0027] In addition to or in lieu of the other processes and functions described above, embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system can apply additional hybrid power management techniques. For example, in instances where battery discharge is permitted outside of the bin fill phase of the combine, embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system can take certain precautionary measures to ensure that sufficient energy reserves are maintained in the rechargeable battery power source to fully power the motor / generator during a given bin fill phase of the combine harvesting cycle. At least in some instances, this can be accomplished using a dynamic SoC floor approach. In this regard, during operation of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system, the controller architecture can adjust the location of the dynamic SoC floor based on the current fill level of the grain bin as monitored by the controller architecture using suitable sensors on the combine (e.g., a weigh sensor and / or a mass flow rate sensor included in the grain bin of the combine). The controller architecture also monitors the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source and, when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source reaches (or approaches) the dynamic SoC floor at its current location, the controller architecture prevents (or significantly slows) further discharge of the rechargeable battery power source. In this manner, the controller architecture ensures that sufficient battery power reserves are maintained to provide the desired power assist during the bin fill phase of the combine harvesting cycle; and note that, when the grain bin of the combine is full of bulk grain, the dynamic SoC floor can equal the minimum optimal SoC threshold described above. Additional description of an exemplary dynamic SoC floor approach for enhanced SoC management is described below in connection with Figure 6 Additional description of an exemplary dynamic SoC floor approach for enhanced SoC management is described below in connection with

[0028] Additional description of an exemplary dynamic SoC floor approach for enhanced SoC management is described below in connection with Figure 1As illustrated and discussed, examples of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system in the context of an example combine harvester will be described below. Additionally, methods or processes that can be carried out by the controller architecture of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system to perform various tasks or processes described herein will be described below in connection with Figure 2 to Figure 7 are set forth. Finally, examples of graphics that can be selectively generated on a display device located in the cab of a combine harvester to visually inform a combine harvester operator of certain operating parameters of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system (e.g., the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source, the instantaneous engine power output, the current operating mode of the electric drive subsystem, etc.) are described below in connection with Figure 8 and Figure 9 are provided. The following description is offered by way of non-limiting illustration only and should not be construed as improperly limiting the scope of the appended claims in any way.

[0029] Example Combine Harvester Equipped with an Intelligent Hybrid Powertrain System

[0030] Referring to Figure 1 , an example combine harvester 10 equipped with an intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 is schematically depicted. The combine harvester 10 is presented by way of illustration to establish a non-limiting example scenario in which embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can be better understood. In further embodiments, the combine harvester 10 can take other forms and can include different combinations of components suitable for processing crop plants ingested into the harvester 10 while traveling over a field 14. Further, for illustrative clarity, only selected components of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 are shown in Figure 1 , such as the controller architecture 16. Additional illustrations and discussion of the example intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 and operation of the hybrid powertrain system 12 are provided below in connection with Figure 2 to Figure 9 .

[0031] The example combine harvester 10 includes a chassis body or mainframe 18 supported by a plurality of ground-engaging wheels 20. The ground-engaging wheels 20 are powered by an engine and drivetrain (including, for example, an electrically-controlled hydraulic transmission) not shown. A cab 22 encloses an operator station including an operator seat (not shown), at least one display device 24, and an operator interface 26 atop a forward portion of the mainframe 18. A feederhouse 28 is mounted to the forward portion of the mainframe 18 of the combine harvester 10 at a height generally below the cab 22. Various harvesting platforms or more simply, "headers," are interchangeably attached to the feederhouse 28 to, for example, allow the combine harvester 10 to be customized for harvesting a particular crop type. Figure 1 An example of one such header is shown in

[0032] As combine 10 travels in the forward direction over field 14, cutting platform 30 collects cut crops into feed chamber 28, which then consolidates the cut crops for delivery (e.g., by an unshown belt conveyor contained in feed chamber 28) to the interior of combine 10. Within combine 10, the crop plants are engaged by a rotating drum conveyor or "threshing cylinder" 32, which directs the crop plants in a generally upward direction into a rotating threshing and separating section 34. Rotating threshing and separating section 34 can include various components for performing the desired functions of separating grain and chaff from other plant material. The illustrated rotating threshing and separating section 34 includes, for example, a cylinder or threshing cylinder 36 having threshing features and rotatably mounted in a housing or cylinder shell 38. Rotation of threshing cylinder 36 within cylinder shell 38 causes both grain and chaff to fall through a separating grate of recesses 40 and into an inlet of a lower grain cleaning section 42. At the same time, straw and similar MOG are directed toward an outlet end 44 of rotating threshing and separating section 34 and ultimately delivered to another rotating cylinder or "beater" 46 for ejection from the rear end of combine 10.

[0033] Now discussing grain cleaning section 42 in more detail, this section of combine 10 includes various components adapted to clean freshly harvested grain while separating chaff therefrom. These components can include a chaffer sieve 48, a screen 50, and any number of fans (not shown). By the action of grain cleaning section 42, freshly cleaned grain is directed into a clean grain elevator 52 for upward delivery into a storage container or grain tank 54 of combine 10. At least one camera 56 is positioned to capture images of grain transported along the bulk grain flow. In particular, in embodiments and as shown, camera 56 can be positioned proximate clean grain elevator 52 to capture images of bulk grain transported via elevator 52 into grain tank 54. As clean grain elevator 52 transports freshly harvested grain into grain tank 54, tailings fall onto a return elevator 58 that extends through a lower portion of clean grain elevator 52. Return elevator 58 then recirculates the tailings back to the inlet of threshing cylinder 36 for further threshing, allowing the grain processing steps described above to repeat and maximize grain production of combine 10. Figure 1

[0034] ​In the manner described above, the combine harvester 10 is effective to ingest cut crop plants from the field 14, extract grain from the crop plants, clean the newly extracted grain, and then store the grain in the grain tank 54 for subsequent unloading using, for example, the unloading auger 60. Moreover, during use of the combine harvester 10, certain components within the combine harvester 10 can be adjusted in position, or the operating parameters of these components can be modified using any number of actuators 62 (such as hydraulic or electrically controlled linear or rotational actuators, one of which is generally represented by the symbol 62) in response to operator input received via the operator interface 26 located within the cab 22, via command signals issued by the controller architecture 16 included in the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12, or otherwise commanded by another controller or control unit on the combine harvester 10. Figure 1 In this regard, the operating speed of any number of fans or conveyors can be varied, as can the position of any number of unshown deflector, chaffer components, screen components, etc. Such actuators 62 can be controlled in response to operator input received via the operator interface 26 located within the cab 22, via command signals issued by the controller architecture 16 included in the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12, or otherwise commanded by another controller or control unit on the combine harvester 10.

[0035] An operator interface 26 located within the cab 22 can be any device or group of devices used by an operator to input commands to or otherwise control the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12. In various embodiments, the operator interface 26 can be integrated into or otherwise associated with the display device 24. In this regard, the operator interface 26 can include physical inputs (e.g., buttons, switches, dials, etc.) located on or near the display device 24, a touch screen module integrated into the display device 24, or a cursor input device (e.g., joystick, trackball, or mouse) for positioning a cursor for interaction with GUI elements generated on the display device 24. In contrast, the display device 24 can be any image generating device configured for operation within the cab 22 of the combine harvester 10. In embodiments, the display device 24 can be affixed to the static structure of the cab 22 and implemented in a head-down display (HDD) configuration. The combine harvester 10 includes various other sensors in addition to those mentioned above, which can supply data to the controller architecture 16 during operation of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12. A non-exhaustive list of such additional sensors can include a grain moisture sensor 64 for providing capacitive measurements indicative of bulk density, a mass flow sensor 66 (e.g., impact plate), and one or more load cells 68 (e.g., for weighing stored grain and calibrating the mass flow sensor) located in the grain tank. In embodiments, the combine harvester 10 can also include sensors for measuring grain loss, such as one or more cleaning unit loss sensors 70 (e.g., impact sensors) positioned at the separator and / or an unshown (e.g., impact) sensor.

[0036] Referring now to Figure 2 The intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 is now depicted in more detail. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 further includes an electric drive subsystem 72, an engine 74, and a transmission 76. The electric drive subsystem 72, in turn, includes a power management unit 78, a motor / generator (M / G) control unit 80, an electric machine in the form of a motor / generator 82, a power distribution module 84, a battery control unit 86, and a rechargeable battery source or power supply 88. Figure 2The plurality of lines in the figure show electrical connections between these components, as well as an engine control unit (ECU) 90 that is further included in the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12. The motor / generator 82 also includes an M / G output shaft 92 that is mechanically coupled to an engine output shaft 94 of the engine 74 by a suitable arrangement, here a belt drive 96, such that when the electric drive system 72 is operating in the power assist mode, the respective mechanical power outputs of the engine 74 and the motor / generator 82 can be added together as applied to the transmission 76; and when the electric drive system 72 is operating in the rapid charging mode, further such that the motor / generator 82 can be back driven by the engine 74. Various other components can be included in the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12, such as various on-board sensors, including those described earlier and a sensor 98 for monitoring the rotational speed of the output shaft. The ECU 90 receives data from the sensor 98, and possibly other data indicative of the current power output of the engine 74, from on-board sensors over a wired or wireless data connection 100, to properly carry out the functions described below.

[0037] Thus, Figure 1 The controller architecture 16 shown in Figure 2 The ECU 90 shown in Figure 2 The controller architecture 16 shown in

[0038] During operation of the combine harvester 10,Figure 1 ), engine 74 generates mechanical power for driving propulsion and harvesting (including unloading) functions of combine 10 through transmission 76. This includes the movement of various components included in the above-described feedhouse 28, rotary threshing and separating section 34, and grain cleaning section 42. ECU 90 regulates various functions of engine 74 to control its power output. The actuated devices used by ECU 90 (and more generally, the engine control system) to vary the engine power output differ between engine platforms, but generally include one or more devices that control the amount of fuel and oxygen (determined by air volume, density, and temperature) delivered to the engine combustion chamber with each combustion cycle. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, ECU 90 also cooperates with various controller units within electric drive subsystem 72 (e.g., power management unit 78 and battery control unit 86) and power distribution module 84 via two-way signal communication to collectively form controller architecture 16 that performs the functions described herein; for example, those performed in the example hybrid power management method 106 described below in connection with FIG. 2. Figure 3 In certain embodiments, ECU 90 (and more generally, controller architecture 16) can selectively activate and deactivate energy dissipation mechanism 104 included in electric drive system 72; for example, as described below in connection with Figure 2 As schematically shown, energy dissipation mechanism 104 (when provided) can be electrically coupled between motor / generator 82 and rechargeable battery power source 88, and possibly integrated into power distribution module 84. When activated, energy dissipation mechanism 104 dissipates electrical energy generated by motor / generator 82 (e.g., by passing a portion of the electrical energy through a set of resistors that convert the electrical energy into heat) before delivering the electrical energy to rechargeable battery power source 88. Thus, providing energy dissipation mechanism 104 can enable motor / generator 82 to provide a braking function when desired, while at the same time preventing or minimizing recharging of rechargeable battery power source 88.

[0039] The M / G control unit 80 and the battery control unit 86 provide appropriate integration functionality to facilitate control of the motor / generator 82 and the battery control unit 86, respectively, by the ECU 90. The power management unit 78 similarly communicates with the ECU 90 and helps to coordinate the control functions of the M / G control unit 80 and the battery control unit 86. The power distribution module 84 routes power from the appropriate cells within the rechargeable battery power source 88 to the motor / generator 82 when the power drive subsystem 72 is operating in the power assist mode; and further routes power generated by the reverse drive of the motor / generator 82 to the individual cells within the rechargeable battery power source 88 when the power drive subsystem 72 is operating in the fast charge mode. Any combination of the power distribution module 84, the power management unit 78, the M / G control unit 80, and the battery control unit 86 can cooperate with the ECU 90 to perform the functions set forth in the example hybrid power management method 106 described below. In alternative embodiments, various other components can be included in the electric drive subsystem 72, or any number of the illustrated components can be omitted, so long as the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 is capable of performing at least a subset of the novel functions described herein.

[0040] Turning next to Figure 3 , the hybrid power management method 106 is shown as being appropriately carried out as the controller architecture 16 Figure 1 ) intelligently switches the electric drive subsystem 72 between the power assist mode and the fast charge mode (possibly in addition to other operating modes, such as a static (standby) mode). The hybrid power management method 106 includes a plurality of method steps 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 121, 122, 124, 126, each of which is described in turn below. Depending on the particular manner in which the hybrid power management method 106 is implemented, each step shown in Figure 3 may require a single process or multiple sub-processes. Further, Figure 3 the steps shown in and described below are provided as non-limiting examples only. In alternative embodiments of the hybrid power management method 106, additional method steps can be performed, certain steps can be omitted, and / or the illustrated method steps can be performed in alternative orders.

[0041] In response to the occurrence of a predetermined trigger event, the controller architecture 16 of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 initiates execution of the hybrid power management method 106 at step 108. Generally, the hybrid power management method 106 can be triggered or initiated in response to the start-up of the combine harvester 10 or other event that can indicate that the combine harvester 10 is likely to be actively harvesting for a short term time horizon. Further, in some cases, the operator can be allowed to activate and deactivate (or customize) the hybrid power management method 106 through interaction with a settings page or screen accessible with a graphical user interface (GUI) generated on a display device 24 located in the combine harvester cab 22.

[0042] After initiating the hybrid power management method 106 (step 108), the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 110. During step 110, the controller architecture 16 determines whether to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode or continue operating in the power assist mode if currently active. The controller architecture 16 can determine whether to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode with a passive approach (based on on-board sensor data), with an active approach (in anticipation of increased engine load), or with both approaches. For example, in various embodiments, the controller architecture 16 places the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode (and thus operates the motor / generator to supplement engine power output) when it determines that the combine harvester 10 is currently actively harvesting during the bin fill phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle; and switches the electric drive subsystem 72 to the fast charge mode (thus operating the motor / generator to charge the battery power source) when the combine harvester 10 transitions to low power unloading of grain from the grain tank 54 during the bin unload phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle. Thus, in such embodiments, the controller architecture 16 can determine that it can be appropriate to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode during step 110 when it establishes that the combine harvester 10 is actively harvesting based on operator input and / or sensor input of the combine harvester 10; and when so determined, proceeds to step 112 of the hybrid power management method 106.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, when a transient heavy load condition is detected (or predicted to be imminent), the controller architecture 16 can determine that the electric drive subsystem 72 can be appropriately placed in the power assist mode during which the engine 74 is placed under a significant increase in load that exceeds the upper engine load threshold during a combine harvesting cycle; for example due to uphill travel of the combine 10, due to intake of dense or wet crop material, due to the combine traveling through muddy terrain, or for other reasons. Similarly, if an event that normally requires a high instantaneous power output from the powertrain system 12 is currently occurring or is predicted to be imminent (e.g., due to an input command entered via the operator interface 26), the controller architecture 16 can determine that the electric drive subsystem 72 is appropriately placed in the power assist mode (or at least initial conditions for placing the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode have been satisfied), and proceed to step 112 of the hybrid power management method 106. As an example of the latter aspect, the controller architecture 16 can determine when an initial start-up of a separator drum or cylinder occurs during operation of the combine 10; and when so determined, can proceed to step 112 to potentially place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode, as further described below. In other implementations in which the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 assists in maintaining the engine output shaft speed within an optimized generally isochronous range having a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold, the controller architecture 16 can proceed to step 112 to potentially place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode to increase the engine output shaft speed when the engine output shaft speed decreases below the minimum threshold, as reported by the speed rate sensor 98.

[0044] During step 112 of the example method 106, the controller architecture 16 further determines whether the minimum SoC threshold has been reached at the current instant. In certain embodiments, the minimum SoC threshold can be a static value above which the SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 is desirably maintained to ensure optimal operation of the electric drive system 72. In other cases, the minimum SoC threshold can be a variable or dynamic value representative of a dynamic SoC minimum value that is adjusted based on the current fill level of the grain tank 54 of the combine 10, as further described below in connection with the example method 108. Figure 7The foregoing. If it is determined that the minimum SoC threshold has been reached during step 112, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 124 and determines whether the current iteration of the hybrid power management method 106 should be terminated, as discussed below. Otherwise, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 114 of the hybrid power management method 106; determines the target level of power assist or output at which the motor / generator 82 should operate; and then controls the electric drive subsystem 72 (by adjusting the current supplied to or voltage applied across the motor / generator 82) to achieve the target power output of the motor / generator 82. In certain embodiments, when the electric drive subsystem 72 is placed in the power assist mode, the motor / generator 82 can be energized or otherwise controlled to produce a substantially constant mechanical power output. However, it is more useful for the controller architecture 16 to command the motor / generator 82 to produce a variable power output that varies as a function of the current rotational rate of the engine output shaft 94 according to a pre-established torque curve, and possibly according to a particular torque curve selected from a plurality of stored torque curves based on the current SoC of the rechargeable battery 88, as discussed below in connection with FIG. 5. Thereafter, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 124 and determines whether the current iteration of the hybrid power management method 106 should be terminated. Figure 6 Further discussion of which is provided below. Thereafter, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 124 and determines whether the current iteration of the hybrid power management method 106 should be terminated.

[0045] If it is instead determined during step 110 of the example method 106 that the electric drive system 72 should not be placed in the power assist mode, the controller architecture 16 continues to step 116 and determines whether the electric drive system 72 should instead be placed in the fast charge mode (or the non-charging motor / generator braking mode, if available). In a manner similar to that previously described, the controller architecture 16 can determine whether to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the power assist mode using a passive approach (based on on-board sensor data), using an active approach (in anticipation of reduced engine load), or using a combination of these approaches. In various implementations, the controller architecture 16 places the electric drive subsystem 72 in the fast charge mode when the combine harvester 10 is performing a low-power unloading of grain from the grain tank 54. Thus, in such embodiments, the controller architecture 16 can initially determine that it is appropriate or suitable to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the fast charge mode during step 110 when the combine harvester 10 is performing a low-power unloading of grain from the grain tank 54. When it is determined that the combine harvester 10 is currently performing a low-power (e.g., static) unloading of grain from the grain tank 54 between tank-filling phases of the hybrid combine power management cycle, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 118 and determines whether the maximum optimal SoC threshold has been reached. Additionally, in embodiments, the controller architecture 16 can automatically place the electric drive subsystem 72 in the fast charge mode when the combine harvester 10 is performing a non-harvesting turn between active turn lane passes, as discussed below in connection with FIG. 4.Figure 5 and Figure 6 as further described.

[0046] In further embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12, when a transient light load condition is detected by onboard sensor data (or when a transient light load condition is predicted to be imminent), the controller architecture 16 can determine that the electric drive subsystem 72 is potentially appropriately placed in a fast charge mode during which the engine 74 is placed under a significantly reduced load that falls below a lower engine load threshold during a combine harvester harvesting cycle; for example, due to downhill travel of the combine harvester 10, intake of low density crop material, a temporary interruption in the flow of crop material through the machine of the combine harvester 10, or for another reason. Similarly, if a condition or event that normally requires a high instantaneous power output from the powertrain is currently ongoing or is predicted to be imminent (e.g., due to an input command entered via the operator interface 26), the controller architecture 16 can determine that it is temporarily appropriate to place the electric drive subsystem 72 in a power assist mode and proceed to step 110 of the hybrid power management method 106. As an example of the latter aspect, the controller architecture 16 can determine when an initial start of the separator drum occurs during operation of the combine harvester 10; and when so determined, can proceed to step 112 to potentially place the electric drive subsystem 72 in a power assist mode, as described below. In other embodiments in which the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12 helps maintain the engine shaft speed within an optimized isochronous range having a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold, the controller architecture 16 can proceed to step 112 to potentially place the electric drive subsystem 72 in a power assist mode to increase the engine shaft speed when the engine output shaft speed falls below the minimum threshold.

[0047] During step 118 of the hybrid power management method 106, the controller architecture 16 further determines whether a maximum optimal SoC threshold has been reached. In embodiments, the maximum SoC threshold can be a static value representative of a maximum optimal SoC threshold below which the SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 is desirably maintained to ensure optimal operation of the electric drive system 72. If it is determined that the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 is below the maximum optimal SoC threshold during step 118, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 120 and begins or continues fast charging of the rechargeable battery power source 88 with power generated by the engine 74 backdriving the motor / generator 82. Otherwise, if the electric drive subsystem 72 is equipped with an energy dissipation mechanism (such as a regenerative braking system), the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 122 and begins or continues energy dissipation in the energy dissipation mechanism to maintain the SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 below the maximum optimal SoC threshold. Figure 2In embodiments in which the energy dissipation mechanism 104 (or another mechanism for allowing motor / generator braking of the engine output shaft 94 while preventing or minimizing charging of the rechargeable battery power source 88) is generally illustrated, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 122. At step 122, the controller architecture 16 activates the energy dissipation mechanism 104 to allow the motor / generator 82 to slow the rotational speed of the engine output shaft 94, e.g., to help maintain the shaft output speed within a desired range, as previously described; while preventing or at least significantly reducing charging of the rechargeable battery power source 88. In other embodiments, step 122 can be omitted from the hybrid power management method 106. After either step 120 or step 122, the controller architecture proceeds to step 124, as described below.

[0048] If during step 116 of the example method 106 it is determined that the electric drive subsystem 72 is not properly placed in the fast charge mode (or non-charging motor / generator braking mode), the controller architecture 16 returns (or maintains) the electric drive subsystem 72 in the static or standby mode (step 121). Thereafter, the controller architecture 16 of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 proceeds to step 124 of the hybrid power management method 106. Figure 6 ). During step 124, the controller architecture 16 determines whether termination of the hybrid power management method 106 is allowed; e.g., due to an operator input requesting termination of the example method 106, due to a shutdown of the combine harvester 10, or due to other events indicating that the combine harvester 10 will be inactive for an extended period of time. If it is determined that the hybrid power management method 106 should be terminated, the controller architecture 16 proceeds to step 126 and terminates the current iteration of the hybrid power management method 106 accordingly. Otherwise, the controller architecture 16 returns to step 110 and the above-described method steps of the hybrid power management method 106 are repeated.

[0049] As described above, when the combine harvester 10 is actively harvesting, embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain 12 advantageously place the electric drive subsystem 72 in a power-assisted mode, while when the combine harvester 10 is unloading grain from the grain bin 54 at low power (e.g., static), the electric drive subsystem 72 is temporarily switched to a fast-charging mode. In this case, the controller architecture 16 can control the rate of battery discharge to drive the motor / generator 82 and ensure that power assistance is provided to supplement the power output of the engine 74 during the harvesting phase of the hybrid combine harvester power management cycle. Furthermore, during the low-power (e.g., static) unloading of bulk grain from the combine harvester 10, and possibly during other periodic intervals of engine loading (e.g., during non-harvesting end turns of the combine harvester 10 between active harvesting passes in the field), the controller architecture 16 switches the electric drive subsystem 72 to a fast-charging mode to take advantage of the relatively low power output demand of the combine harvester 10 and to rapidly recharge the rechargeable battery power 88 to a level sufficient to repeat the above process, as described below. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As stated above.

[0050] The references appear respectively Figure 4 and Figure 5 The curves 128 and 130 in the diagram provide a more comprehensive understanding of the aforementioned hybrid power management scheme. First, we address... Figure 4 The mixed duty cycle curve 128 shown plots time along the horizontal axis (x-axis) and power (in kilowatts) along the vertical axis (y-axis). Three example characteristics or trajectories are shown: the first trajectory 132 depicts the vehicle load, the second trajectory 134 depicts the electrical load, and the third trajectory 136 depicts the engine power output of the combine harvester 10's engine 74. In contrast, Figure 5 The time-dependent battery charging curve 130 shown is also plotted along the horizontal axis (x-axis) for a synchronous time period extending from the start time (t0) to the end time 1200 seconds later. Battery charging or discharging (in kW / h) is plotted along the vertical axis, where a single trajectory 138 represents the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power supply 88 during the plotted time period. At time t0, the vehicle load (trajectory 132) decreases due to the static unloading of the combine harvester 10. For the purposes of this example, it can be assumed that the combine harvester unloading occurs within approximately 120 seconds. In response to the start of the combine harvester unloading, the controller architecture 16 puts the electric drive subsystem 72 into fast charging mode. Therefore, the electrical load (trajectory 136) increases during this time period, while there is almost no change in the engine load (trajectory 134). During the combine harvester unloading period, the SoC of the rechargeable battery power supply 88 decreases from the initial minimum optimal SoC (corresponding to...). Figure 5The zero value of the vertical axis in the figure is increased to the maximum optimal SoC (corresponding to the zero value of the vertical axis in the figure). Figure 5 The slope of trajectory 138 from this time range (t0 to t120) is substantially constant and can represent the selected charging rate (R recharge) which is sufficient to return enough power storage to the rechargeable battery power source 88 for discharge during subsequent active harvesting periods, as described below.

[0051] Next, the box filling phase begins from time period t120 to t900. During this time period, combine harvester 10 performs two active harvesting passes (occurring within time periods t120 to t500 and t520 to t900) and a non-harvesting end turn between the active harvesting passes (occurring between time periods t500 and t520). Figure 4 As shown in trajectory 132, the vehicle load (trajectory 132) therefore increases during the active harvesting passes (t120 to t500 and t520 to t900); however, as shown in trajectory 134, the engine output of engine 74 remains within a substantially constant band (typically between 50 and 55 kW in this example). This is due to the electric drive subsystem 72 being placed in power-assisted mode during each of these time periods, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The trajectories 136 and 138 are shown in the diagram. (Refer to...) Figure 5 In trajectory 138, specifically, the electric drive subsystem 72 is capable of providing sufficient power assistance to maintain engine output within a substantially constant power output range, while simultaneously discharging at a controlled rate (Ro). 放电 The rechargeable battery power supply 88 is slowly discharged. In this example, the controller architecture 16 will discharge the battery at a rate (R... 放电 It remains at a substantially constant value, which (in absolute terms) is less than the fast recharge rate (R). 再充电 For example, in an embodiment, the fast recharge rate (R) 再充电 ) is greater than and can be the discharge rate (R) 放电 At least twice the absolute maximum value of ).

[0052] exist Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the example scenario depicted, the combine harvester 10 is able to fill the grain tank 54 when it is initially empty during the active harvesting period shown (in this case, a total of 760 seconds). Therefore, by controlling the discharge rate (R) in the manner described above... 放电) to gradually reduce the charge of the rechargeable battery power source 88 over the course of the active harvesting passes (t120 to t500 and t520 to t900), and particularly over the time period typically required for the combine harvester 10 to fill the grain tank 54, the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can ensure that the combine harvester 10 needs to be unloaded of the grain tank 54 before the rechargeable battery power source 88 is depleted (or at least depleted to a minimum optical SoC threshold), thereby providing the electric drive subsystem 72 with a new opportunity to recharge the rechargeable battery power source 88 during the subsequent low-power (e.g., static) unloading phase. Additionally, as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 the rechargeable battery power source 88 can be further recharged using the opportunity for temporary reduction in vehicle load (here, due to a non-harvesting turn of the combine harvester 10) over the time period t500 to t520. With this hybrid power charging management scheme, and as indicated by the start of a new hybrid combine harvester power management cycle at time t900 and beyond in Figure 4 and Figure 5 the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can repeat the above cycle on a substantially infinite basis to reliably assist the engine 74 during the tank-filling phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle phase of combine harvester operation. This not only allows for a downsized engine 74, but further optimizes engine operation by stabilizing the engine output in a narrow band (trajectory 134) of power outputs (and speed ranges) that encompass or at least approach the power output at which the engine 74 operates at maximum efficiency levels.

[0053] In the above example, the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 is described as discharging the rechargeable battery power source 88 at a substantially constant rate while the electric drive subsystem 72 is operating in the power assist mode. While this can be the case in certain situations, in further embodiments, the controller architecture 16 of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can advantageously vary the mechanical power output of the motor / generator 82, and thus the rate at which the rechargeable battery power source 88 is discharged. For example, consider Figure 6 An example plot 140 showing and plotting a plurality of torque curves (identified by different line patterns, as indicated by key values 142) is shown in Figure 2the memory 102 shown in FIG. 6, with each torque curve being assigned to a different SoC range of the rechargeable battery power source 88. When operating in the power assist mode, the controller architecture 16 can first determine the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88, and then select the corresponding torque curve for determining the target power output of the motor / generator 82 for a given rotational rate of the engine output shaft 94 (plotted along the horizontal axis of the graph 140) as monitored with the rotational rate sensor 98.

[0054] As Figure 6 indicated, the uppermost torque curve 144 can correspond to a relatively larger SoC range of the rechargeable battery power source 88 (here, from 25% to 100% of the optimal SoC range); and thus represents the torque curve that is preferably followed during combine harvester operation. The remaining torque curves below the highest torque curve 144 provide progressively lower (in a stepped manner) motor / generator output levels to transition the energy storage within the rechargeable battery power source 88 as the current SoC decreases below a lower threshold (here, 25% or less), while still maintaining the torque curve shape that is familiar to the operator. In this manner, the controller architecture 16 can actively switch between the torque curves shown in conjunction with changes in the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 to more effectively conserve or manage the energy stored within the rechargeable battery power source 88, while better maintaining the performance parameters of the combine harvester 10 as desired by the operator.

[0055] As discussed above in conjunction with Figure 3 the embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can further implement a method to substantially maintain the SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 within an optimal range. Reference is next made to Figure 7Examples of such optimal SoC ranges are plotted along the right vertical axis of graph 146, and range from a minimum optimal SoC threshold (corresponding to a value of 0%, as marked by dashed line 148) to a maximum optimal SoC threshold (corresponding to a value of 100%, as marked by dashed line 150). As can be appreciated by comparing the optimal SoC ranges plotted along the right vertical axis of graph 146 to the total battery capacity plotted along the left vertical axis of graph 146, the optimal SoC ranges will generally be significantly less than the total battery capacity of rechargeable battery power source 88. In less complex embodiments, controller architecture 16 of intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can monitor the current SoC of rechargeable battery power source 88 during operation, and perform one or both of the following actions: (i) when the current SoC reaches the maximum optimal SoC threshold (line 150), prevent (or significantly reduce) further charging of rechargeable battery power source 88, and (ii) when the current SoC reaches the minimum optimal SoC threshold 148, prevent further discharging of rechargeable battery power source 88, regardless of the current fill level of grain tank 54. In other cases, controller architecture 16 can instead utilize a variable or dynamic SoC minimum (indicated by marker 152 in FIG. 1) to prevent further discharging of rechargeable battery power source 88, as described below. Figure 7

[0056] When provided, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) is effectively moved by controller architecture 16 based on the parameters called from memory 102 and in relation to changes in the current fill level of grain tank 54. In the example shown, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) follows a substantially linear path 158 extending from a first point occurring at a tank fill level of 0% (leaving 100% of available capacity within grain tank 54) to a second point occurring at a tank fill level of 100% (leaving 0% of available capacity within grain tank 54). Thus, at a tank fill of 0% (100% available capacity of grain tank 54), controller architecture 16 effectively moves the variable SoC minimum (152) to be moved to a position coinciding with point 154, and prevents (or at least significantly reduces) additional battery discharge when the current SoC of rechargeable battery power source 88 reaches the level indicated by line 160. This ensures that sufficient power reserves are maintained in rechargeable battery power source 88 to complete the harvesting phase of the hybrid combine power management cycle. Thus, in this case, controller architecture 16 can cease to perform (or at least significantly reduce) any non-harvest power assist functions. Notably, and as described above, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) is effectively moved by controller architecture 16 in relation to changes in the current fill level of grain tank 54. Thus, in the example shown, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) is effectively moved to a position coinciding with point 154 when the current fill level of grain tank 54 reaches 0% (100% available capacity of grain tank 54). In other cases, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) can be effectively moved to a position coinciding with point 154 when the current fill level of grain tank 54 reaches a value other than 0% (e.g., 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, or 95% of available capacity of grain tank 54). In other cases, the dynamic SoC minimum (marker 152) can be effectively moved to a position coinciding with point 154 when the current fill level of grain tank 54 reaches a value other than 100% (e.g., 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10% of available capacity of grain tank 54). Figure 7 ​As indicated by the vertical line 164 in the graph 160, additional storage capacity can be provided within the rechargeable battery power source 88 between the maximum value corresponding to the dynamic SoC minimum value (label 152) and the maximum optimal SoC threshold value (line 150). Thus, the rechargeable battery power source 88 can store and discharge energy within this band to provide the above-mentioned power assist functions associated with non-harvesting actions or events, such as helping to better maintain engine power output within the optimal etas range, facilitating load shedding during transient heavy engine load conditions, and providing temporary power boost during initial startup of the separator drum, to name a few examples.

[0057] As noted above, the controller architecture 16 calls the parameters from the variable SoC minimum value 152 from the memory 102, actively adjusts the position of the variable SoC minimum value 152 based on the current available bin fill level, and adjusts the discharge of the rechargeable battery power source 88 to prevent (or significantly reduce) battery discharge when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 reaches (or approaches) the SoC minimum value 152. For example, in a scenario where the grain bin 54 of the combine harvester 10 is half full (indicated by the vertical line 164 in the graph 160), when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 reaches the current position of the SoC minimum value (label 152), the controller architecture 16 will prevent further battery discharge, as indicated by the horizontal line 166 in the graph 160. Figure 7 Figure 7 In this manner, it is generally possible to ensure that sufficient energy storage is preserved in the rechargeable battery power source 88 to complete the current bin fill phase and finish filling of the grain bin 54. Finally, as shown on the lower right portion of the graph 146, the variable SoC minimum value 152 can terminate at or slightly above the minimum optimal SoC threshold value (line 148) of the rechargeable battery power source 88, as full depletion of the rechargeable battery power source 88 within the optimal SoC range is allowed when the grain bin 54 is at a 100% fill level (0% available bin capacity), provided that active harvesting cannot continue prior to unloading the bulk grain collected within the grain bin 54, the electric drive subsystem 72 is placed in a fast charge mode, and the corresponding battery is recharged to a level sufficient to repeat the above-described method (if not reaching the maximum optimal SoC (line 150) of the rechargeable battery power source 88).

[0058] Embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 can also generate various graphical user interface (GUI) screens or pages on the display device 24 located in the cab 22 of the combine harvester 10. Such GUI screens can include graphics (textual readouts, symbols, virtual gauges, etc.) that provide the operator of the combine harvester 10 with a visual perception of the operating parameters or status of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12. In this regard, consider the following examples: Figure 8 Figure 9 ​​The example hybrid powertrain status graphic 168 shown in FIG. 13 can be generated by the intelligent hybrid powertrain system 12 on the display device 24, in embodiments, to enable an operator to discern the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 and the instantaneous engine power level. To this end, the hybrid powertrain status graphic 168 includes a virtual gauge 170 indicating the current power output of the engine 74, a sliding marker 172 that moves vertically along the virtual gauge 170 to generally indicate (e.g., along with a numerical readout) the current rotational speed of the engine output shaft 94, and an SoC graphic 174 that is divided into quadrants that can be filled or otherwise visually distinguished to indicate when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 ranges within 0-25%, 25-50%, 50-75%, or 75-100% of the optimal SoC range. As Figure 7 and Figure 8 As indicated by the crosshatching in FIG. 13, color coding can be applied to fill certain cells or regions of the hybrid powertrain status graphic 168 with a visually jarring color (e.g., red or yellow) when, for example, the engine power output is relatively high or the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source 88 is relatively low. Finally, the arrow path graphics 176, 178 provide an intuitive visual indication conveying whether the electric drive subsystem 72 is currently placed in the fast charge mode (as indicated by the lower arrow path graphic 176 filled to indicate power flow from the engine 74 to the rechargeable battery power source 88) or the electric drive subsystem 72 is currently operating in the power assist mode (as indicated by the upper arrow path graphic 178 filled to indicate power flow from the electric drive subsystem to the engine 74). Figure 8

[0059] Columnar Examples of Intelligent Hybrid Powertrains

[0060] For ease of reference, the following examples of intelligent hybrid powertrains are further provided and numbered.

[0061] ​1. In a first example embodiment, an embodiment of a smart hybrid powertrain system includes an engine configured to produce an engine power output for powering a propulsion and grain tank unloading function of a combine harvester; a controller architecture; and an electric drive subsystem. The electric drive subsystem in turn includes a battery power source and a motor / generator configured to be selectively powered by the battery power source to supplement the engine power output, or by the engine to charge the battery power source. With the battery power source and the engine coupled thereto, the controller architecture is configured to: (i) monitor a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source when the combine harvester enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; (ii) operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output and to regulate a rate of battery discharge during the tank filling phase to prevent the current SoC of the battery power source from decreasing below a predetermined SoC lower threshold value before the tank filling phase is completed; and (iii) operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during the tank unloading phase until the current SoC of the battery power source is equal to or greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold value, thereby enabling the combine harvester harvesting cycle to be repeated.

[0062] 2. The smart hybrid powertrain system according to example 1, wherein the controller architecture is further configured to operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source when the combine harvester makes a non-harvesting turn between harvesting passes while the combine harvester is traveling on a crop field.

[0063] 3. The smart hybrid powertrain system according to example 1, wherein the controller architecture is further configured to operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source when a transient light load condition is detected during which the engine is placed under a reduced load that is less than a lower engine load threshold value.

[0064] 4. The smart hybrid powertrain system according to example 1, wherein the controller architecture is configured to operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output while limiting battery discharge to ensure sufficient stored energy reserves to complete a current tank unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle when a transient light load condition is detected during which the engine is placed under a reduced load that is greater than the lower engine load threshold value.

[0065] 5. The smart hybrid powertrain system according to example 1, wherein the combine harvester includes a separator drum. The controller architecture is configured to operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output while limiting battery discharge to ensure sufficient stored energy reserves to complete a current tank unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle during a rotational start-up of the separator drum.

[0066] 6. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, further comprising a memory storing a plurality of torque profiles each associated with a different SoC range of the battery power source. The controller architecture is coupled to the memory and configured to: (i) select, from the plurality of torque profiles, a torque profile corresponding to a current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source; and (ii) control the motor / generator such that a cumulative power output of the motor / generator and the engine substantially follows the selected torque profile during a bin-filling phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

[0067] 7. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, further comprising a rotational rate sensor configured to provide data indicative of an engine shaft speed of the engine. The controller architecture is coupled to the rotational rate sensor and further configured to: (i) operate the motor / generator to reduce the engine shaft speed if an upper speed threshold is exceeded during the combine harvester harvesting cycle; and (ii) operate the motor / generator to accelerate the engine shaft speed if a lower speed threshold is fallen below during the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

[0068] 8. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 7, wherein when the motor / generator is operated to reduce the engine shaft speed, the controller architecture is further configured to, in conjunction with the motor / generator’s regenerative braking, prevent charging of the battery power source when the battery power source’s current SoC reaches a second predetermined upper threshold that is greater than a first predetermined upper threshold.

[0069] 9. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, wherein the controller architecture is further configured to prevent charging of the battery power source during a bin-unloading phase when the battery power source’s current SoC reaches a second upper predetermined threshold that is greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold.

[0070] 10. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 9, further comprising an energy dissipation mechanism electrically coupled between the motor / generator and the battery power source. The controller architecture is configured to activate the energy dissipation mechanism to prevent charging of the battery power source during the bin-unloading phase when the battery power source’s current SoC reaches the second predetermined upper threshold.

[0071] 11. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, wherein during the bin-unloading phase, the controller architecture is configured to operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source at a recharge rate having an absolute value that is greater than a maximum value of a rate of battery discharge during the bin-filling phase.

[0072] 12. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, further comprising a memory that stores a dynamic SoC floor value, and an on-board sensor integrated into the combine harvester and configured to provide data indicative of a fill level of the grain tank. The controller architecture, with the memory coupled thereto and the on-board sensor coupled thereto, is further configured to: (i) adjust a position of the dynamic SoC floor value based on the fill level of the grain tank indicated by the on-board sensor of the combine harvester during a harvesting cycle of the combine harvester; and (ii) prevent further discharge of the battery power source when the current SoC of the rechargeable battery power source reaches the dynamic SoC floor value during a tank unloading phase of the harvesting cycle of the combine harvester.

[0073] 13. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 1, wherein the controller architecture is configured to operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during a tank unloading phase while the ground speed of the combine harvester is less than one mile per hour.

[0074] 14. In another example embodiment, an intelligent hybrid powertrain system comprises an engine configured to produce an engine power output for powering propulsion and grain tank unloading functions of a combine harvester, an on-board sensor configured to provide data indicative of a fill level of the grain tank, and an electric drive subsystem having a battery power source and a motor / generator powered by the battery power source to supplement the engine power output or powered by the engine to charge the battery power source. A controller architecture is coupled to the on-board sensor and coupled to the electric drive subsystem. The controller architecture is configured to: (i) monitor a current state of charge (SoC) of the battery power source when the combine harvester enters a harvesting cycle of the combine harvester having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; (ii) operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output and to adjust a rate of discharge of the battery power source to maintain the current SoC at or above a dynamic SoC floor value having a value that varies in relation to the current fill level of the grain tank during the tank filling phase; and (iii) operate the motor / generator to charge the battery power source during the tank unloading phase.

[0075] 15. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system of example 14, wherein the combine harvester includes a separator cylinder. The controller architecture is configured to operate the motor / generator to supplement the engine power output while limiting battery discharge to maintain the current SoC at or above the dynamic SoC floor value during a spin-up of the separator cylinder.

[0076] CONCLUSION

[0077] Accordingly, embodiments of an intelligent hybrid powertrain system for use on a combine harvester have been provided. Embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system strategically determine when to place the electric drive system in a power assist mode or a rapid charging mode to optimize various aspects of combine harvester performance while enabling downsizing of the internal combustion engine to provide enhancements in fuel economy, reduced emissions, cost savings, and other benefits. Power limitations are addressed during the bin fill phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle through strategic application of the power assist mode; and, in particular, through discharging the rechargeable battery power source at a controlled rate (variable or non-variable) to drive the motor / generator and supplement the engine's power output during this phase of operation. In embodiments, the rate of discharge of the rechargeable battery power source is controlled to ensure adequate power supply throughout the duration of each grain bin fill phase. Subsequently, during the offloading of bulk grain from the combine harvester at low power (e.g., low speed or static), the controller architecture switches the electric drive subsystem to the rapid charging mode to take advantage of the relatively low power output demands of the combine harvester and rapidly recharge the rechargeable battery power source to a level sufficient to repeat the above-described process. Generally speaking, embodiments of the hybrid powertrain system then intelligently switch between battery charging and discharging to achieve energy storage under light load conditions, where the stored energy is then utilized to assist in implementing each harvesting cycle within the battery storage energy and endurance limits. As noted above, various other benefits are also realized by embodiments of the intelligent hybrid powertrain system.

[0078] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0079] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The embodiments and implementations explicitly cited herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and its practical application and to enable others skilled in the art to understand the disclosure and recognize its many appropriate alternatives, modifications, and changes. Accordingly, various embodiments and implementations beyond those explicitly described are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) for use on a combine harvester (10) having a grain tank (54), the intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) comprising: an engine (74) configured to produce an engine power output for powering propulsion functions and grain tank unloading functions of the combine harvester (10); an electric drive subsystem (72) comprising: a battery power source (88); and a motor / generator (82) supplied with electric power from the battery power source (88) to supplement the engine power output, or the motor / generator supplied with power from the engine (74) to charge the battery power source (88); and a controller architecture (16) coupled to the electric drive subsystem (72), the controller architecture (16) configured to: monitor a current state of charge SoC of the battery power source (88) as the combine harvester (10) enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a tank filling phase and a tank unloading phase; during the tank filling phase, operate the motor / generator (82) to supplement the engine power output and regulate a rate of battery discharge to prevent the current SoC of the battery power source (88) from decreasing below a predetermined SoC lower threshold (148) before the tank filling phase is completed; and during the tank unloading phase, operate the motor / generator (82) to charge the battery power source (88) until the current SoC of the battery power source (88) is equal to or greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold (160), thereby enabling the combine harvester harvesting cycle to be repeated.

2. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the controller architecture (16) is further configured to operate the motor / generator (82) to charge the battery power source (88) when the combine harvester (10) is traveling on a crop field (14) between harvesting passes while making non-harvesting turns.

3. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the controller architecture (16) is further configured to operate the motor / generator (82) to charge the battery power source (88) when a transient light load condition is detected during which the engine (74) is placed under a reduced load that is less than a lower engine load threshold.

4. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the controller architecture (16) is configured to operate the motor / generator (82) to supplement the engine power output while limiting battery discharge to ensure sufficient stored energy reserves to complete a current tank unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle when a transient light load condition is detected during which the engine (74) is placed under a reduced load that is greater than a lower engine load threshold.

5. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the combine harvester (10) includes a separator drum (36); and wherein the controller architecture (16) is configured to cause the motor / generator (82) to operate to supplement the engine power output during a spin-up of the separator drum (36) while limiting battery discharge to ensure sufficient stored energy reserve to complete a current tank unloading phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

6. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, further comprising a memory (102) storing a plurality of torque profiles (144), each torque profile associated with a different SoC range of the battery power source (88); and wherein the controller architecture (16) is coupled to the memory (102) and configured to: select a torque profile from the plurality of torque profiles (144) corresponding to a current SoC of the battery power source (88); and control the motor / generator (82) such that a cumulative power output of the motor / generator (82) and the engine (74) substantially follows the selected torque profile during the tank filling phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

7. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, further comprising a rotational rate sensor (98) configured to provide data indicative of an engine shaft speed of the engine (74); wherein the controller architecture (16) is coupled to the rotational rate sensor (98) and further configured to: cause the motor / generator (82) to operate to reduce the engine shaft speed if the engine shaft speed exceeds an upper speed threshold during the combine harvester harvesting cycle; and cause the motor / generator (82) to operate to accelerate the engine shaft speed if the engine shaft speed falls below a lower speed threshold during the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

8. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 7, wherein when the motor / generator (82) is caused to operate to reduce the engine shaft speed, the controller architecture (16) is further configured to, in conjunction with the reverse drive of the motor / generator (82), prevent charging of the battery power source (88) when a current SoC of the battery power source (88) reaches a second predetermined upper threshold (150) that is greater than a first predetermined SoC upper threshold (160).

9. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the controller architecture (16) is further configured to prevent charging of the battery power source (88) during the tank unloading phase when a current SoC of the battery power source (88) reaches a second predetermined upper threshold (150) that is greater than the first predetermined SoC upper threshold (160).

10. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 9, further comprising an energy dissipation mechanism (104) electrically coupled between the motor / generator (82) and the battery power source (88); and wherein the controller architecture (16) is configured to activate the energy dissipation mechanism (104) to prevent charging of the battery power source (88) during the tank unloading phase when the current SoC of the battery power source (88) reaches the second predetermined upper threshold (150).

11. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein during the tank unloading phase, the controller architecture (16) is configured to cause the motor / generator (82) to operate so as to charge the battery power source (88) at a recharge rate having an absolute value greater than a maximum value of a battery discharge rate during the tank filling phase.

12. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, further comprising: a memory (102) storing a dynamic SoC floor (152); and an on-board sensor (66, 68) integrated into the combine harvester (10) and configured to provide data indicative of a fill level of the grain tank (54); wherein the controller architecture (16) is coupled to the memory (102) and to the on-board sensor (66, 68), the controller architecture (16) being configured to: adjust a positioning of the dynamic SoC floor (152) based on the fill level of the grain tank (54) indicated by the on-board sensor (66, 68); and prevent further discharge of the battery power source (88) when the current SoC of the battery power source (88) reaches the dynamic SoC floor (152) during a tank filling phase of the combine harvester harvesting cycle.

13. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 1, wherein the controller architecture (16) is configured to cause the motor / generator (82) to operate to charge the battery power source (88) during the tank unloading phase when a ground speed of the combine harvester (10) is less than one mile per hour.

14. An intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) for use on a combine harvester (10) having a grain tank (54), the intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) comprising: an engine (74) configured to produce an engine power output for powering propulsion functions and grain tank unloading functions of the combine harvester (10); an on-board sensor (66, 68) configured to provide data indicative of a fill level of the grain tank (54); and an electric drive subsystem (72) comprising: a battery power source (88); and ​ ​ a motor / generator (82) supplied with electric power by the battery power source (88) to supplement the engine power output, or the motor / generator supplied with power by the engine (74) to charge the battery power source (88); and a controller architecture (16) connected to the on-board sensors and to the electric drive subsystem (72), the controller architecture (16) configured to: monitor a current state of charge SoC of the battery power source (88) as the combine harvester (10) enters a combine harvester harvesting cycle having a bin filling phase and a bin unloading phase; during the bin filling phase, operate the motor / generator (82) to supplement the engine power output and to regulate a rate of discharge of the battery power source (88) to maintain the current SoC at or above a dynamic SoC minimum (152) having a value that varies in relation to a current fill level of the grain bin (54); and during the bin unloading phase, operate the motor / generator (82) to charge the battery power source (88).

15. The intelligent hybrid powertrain system (12) of claim 14, wherein the combine harvester (10) includes a separator cylinder (36); and wherein the controller architecture (16) is configured to operate the motor / generator (82) to supplement the engine power output while limiting battery discharge to maintain the current SoC at or above the dynamic SoC minimum (152) during a spin-up of the separator cylinder (36).

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