Method for driving at least one power consumer connected to a power system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method, performed by a control device (48), for driving at least one power consumer (PC1, PC2) connected to a power system (3) of a vehicle (1). The at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor (14) and a second motor (16), wherein the first motor (14) is connected to a first main shaft (34) and the second motor (16) is connected to a second main shaft (36). A connecting shaft (9) is connected to the first motor (14); and the at least one power consumer (PC1, PC2) comprises a first power consumer (PC1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and / or a second power consumer (PC2) connected to the connecting shaft (9). The method comprises: during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft (20) of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox (2), controlling (s101) the power system (3) to provide an uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft (34) and / or on the connecting shaft (9). The invention also relates to a vehicle (1) comprising a powertrain (3), a computer program and a computer-readable medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a method for driving at least one electrical power consumer connected to a powertrain of a vehicle. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising the powertrain, a computer program and a computer-readable medium. Background Art

[0002] The vehicle power system can not only be used to propel the vehicle, but can also be configured to provide energy to power consuming devices, such as power take-offs (PTOs) and other auxiliary functions. The PTO can be used to transfer electricity / energy to attached appliances or separate machines of the vehicle. Therefore, the PTO can be used to drive a pump, operate a boom, operate a mixer or similar device. The PTO is usually connected to the layshaft of the gearbox, whereby the layshaft drives the PTO. With this arrangement, energy will only be provided to the PTO when the vehicle is moving and the layshaft is rotating.

[0003] The PTO can also be connected to a combustion engine in the vehicle's powertrain, whereby the combustion engine drives the PTO. With this arrangement, energy is supplied to the PTO both when the vehicle is moving and when the vehicle is stationary. However, when the combustion engine is off, no energy is supplied to the PTO.

[0004] The power take-off may also be connected to a combustion engine and / or electric machine in a hybrid vehicle powertrain, whereby the combustion engine and / or electric machine drives the power take-off under certain driving conditions of the vehicle.

[0005] US Pat. No. 5,730,676 A discloses an electromechanical transmission having a combustion engine and a pair of electric motors / generators capable of driving a power take-off. According to one embodiment, the power take-off is connected to a ring gear of a planetary gear. The combustion engine and the electric motors / generators are also connected to the planetary gear. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some power consumers, such as the power take-off (PTO) and other auxiliary functions connected to the vehicle's powertrain, require continuous energy and drive torque both when the vehicle is stationary and moving. Furthermore, in hybrid vehicle powertrains equipped with a combustion engine and an electric motor, the combustion engine is turned off during certain driving conditions. Therefore, even when the combustion engine is off, power consumers connected to the hybrid vehicle powertrain require energy and drive torque.

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable to implement a method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle while the vehicle is stationary, starting, and moving. Furthermore, it is desirable to implement a method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle during a gear shift in the transmission of the powertrain. Furthermore, it is desirable to implement a method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle while the combustion engine of the powertrain is off.

[0008] One object of the present invention is therefore to provide a novel and advantageous method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle while the vehicle is stationary, starting, and moving. Another object is to provide a novel and advantageous method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle during a gear shift in the transmission of the powertrain. Another object is to provide a novel and advantageous method for driving at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain of a vehicle during a shutdown state of the combustion engine of the powertrain. Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel and advantageous vehicle, computer program, and computer-readable medium.

[0009] The objects mentioned herein are achieved by the method, vehicle, computer program and computer-readable medium according to the present invention.

[0010] Therefore, according to one aspect of the present invention, a method is provided, performed by a control device, for driving at least one power consumer connected to a powertrain of a vehicle. The powertrain comprises at least one propulsion unit and a gearbox. The gearbox comprises: a first main shaft; a second main shaft; an output shaft of the gearbox, the output shaft being connected to the drive wheels of the vehicle; a countershaft, the countershaft being connected to the first main shaft, the second main shaft, and the output shaft of the gearbox; a first gear pair, the first gear pair being connected to the first main shaft and the countershaft; a second gear pair, the second gear pair being connected to the second main shaft and the countershaft; wherein the at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor and a second motor, the first motor being connected to the first main shaft and the second main shaft; wherein a connecting shaft is connected to the first motor; and wherein the at least one power consumer comprises a first power consumer connected to the first main shaft and / or a second power consumer connected to the connecting shaft. The method comprises: controlling the powertrain to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox, and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided comprising a powertrain. The powertrain comprises: at least one propulsion unit, a gearbox, and a control device. The gearbox comprises: a first main shaft; a second main shaft; an output shaft of the gearbox connected to drive wheels of the vehicle; a countershaft connected to the first main shaft, the second main shaft, and the output shaft of the gearbox; a first gear pair connected to the first main shaft and the countershaft; a second gear pair connected to the second main shaft and the countershaft; and at least one power consumer connected to the powertrain. The at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor and a second motor, wherein the first motor is connected to the first main shaft and the second motor is connected to the second main shaft; a connecting shaft is connected to the first motor; the at least one power consumer comprises a first power consumer connected to the first main shaft and / or a second power consumer connected to the connecting shaft; and the control device is configured to control the powertrain to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox.

[0012] With this method and vehicle, power consumers connected to the powertrain can be driven while the vehicle is stationary, starting, and traveling. Furthermore, power consumers connected to the vehicle's powertrain can be driven during gear shifts in the powertrain's transmission. Furthermore, power consumers connected to the vehicle's powertrain can be driven during a shutdown condition of the powertrain's combustion engine.

[0013] The propulsion torque can be divided / divided between the main shafts and when the first power consumer is connected to the first main shaft, the first power consumer can be driven by the main shaft when the vehicle is stationary and the first main shaft is disconnected from the output shaft of the gearbox. When driven by the first main shaft, the first main shaft transmits torque and rotational motion to the first power consumer. In addition, the first power consumer can be driven by the first main shaft, while the second main shaft provides / transmits propulsion torque to the output shaft of the gearbox. The first power consumer can be driven during stationary, starting and driving of the vehicle. The first power consumer can also be driven during gear shifting in the gearbox. According to an example, the power system also includes a combustion engine as a propulsion unit. However, the first power consumer can also be driven when the combustion engine is switched off.

[0014] The second power consumer is connected to the connecting shaft and driven by the connecting shaft, which is connected to the first motor. When driven by the connecting shaft, the first main shaft transmits torque and rotational motion to the second power consumer. The second power consumer can be connected to the power system alternatively or in combination with the first power consumer. The second power consumer can be driven during stationary, starting and driving of the vehicle. The second power consumer can also be driven during gear shifting in the gearbox. According to an example, the power system also includes a combustion engine as a propulsion unit. However, the second power consumer can also be driven when the combustion engine is turned off.

[0015] The first and / or second power consumers extract torque from the powertrain, thereby applying a load on the powertrain. When propulsion torque is provided only on the second main shaft, the resulting torque acting on the first main shaft will be a negative (extraction) torque corresponding to the load applied by the first and / or second power consumers. When the resulting torque on the first main shaft is negative, the first main shaft will be driven by the countershaft via a first gear pair connected to the countershaft and the first main shaft. Therefore, the first and / or second power consumers, respectively, connected to the first main shaft and / or the connecting shaft will be driven by the first main shaft and / or the connecting shaft, respectively. Therefore, some of the propulsion torque provided on the second main shaft will be transferred to the first main shaft and / or the connecting shaft to drive the first and / or second power consumers, respectively. The first gear pair is connected to the countershaft, and the first main shaft includes gears connected to each shaft. When the propulsion torque on the second main shaft drives the first main shaft, the gears on the countershaft drive the gears on the first main shaft. By gradually transferring the propulsion torque from the second main shaft to the first main shaft, propulsion torque is provided to both the first and second main shafts, and also to the connecting shaft. The resulting torque acting on the first main shaft and / or connecting shaft will then be the propulsion torque provided by the at least one propulsion unit on the first main shaft and / or connecting shaft, minus the torque corresponding to the load applied by the first and / or second power consumers. When the propulsion torque provided on the first main shaft and / or connecting shaft is sufficient to drive the first and / or second power consumers, the propulsion torque provided on the second main shaft will not drive the first main shaft and / or connecting shaft. Therefore, when the resulting torque acting on the first main shaft and / or connecting shaft is positive, the first main shaft will drive the countershaft. When the propulsion torque provided on the first main shaft corresponds to the load applied by the first power consumer, the resulting torque acting on the first main shaft will be zero Nm. This achieves torque balance on the first gear pair. When the propulsion torque provided on the first main shaft increases further, the propulsion torque provided on the first main shaft will drive the countershaft. When the propulsion torque provided on the first main shaft is transmitted to the countershaft and output shaft of the gearbox via the first gear pair, the gears on the first main shaft will instead drive the gears on the countershaft.

[0016] Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following details and by putting the present invention into practice. Although examples of the present invention are described below, it should be noted that they are not limited to the specific details described. Experts who have access to the teachings herein will recognize further applications, modifications and incorporations in other fields within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and other objects and advantages of the present disclosure, the detailed description set forth below should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Figure 1 In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to similar items throughout the several views, read together, and wherein:

[0018] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a side view of a vehicle according to an example;

[0019] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a power system of a vehicle according to an example;

[0020] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a power system of a vehicle according to an example;

[0021] Figures 4a-4c A flow chart showing a method for driving at least one power consumer connected to a powertrain of a vehicle according to an example; and

[0022] Figure 5 A computer according to an example is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a method is provided, performed by a control device, for driving at least one power consumer connected to a powertrain of a vehicle. The powertrain comprises at least one propulsion unit and a gearbox. The gearbox comprises: a first main shaft; a second main shaft; an output shaft of the gearbox, the output shaft connected to the vehicle's drive wheels; a countershaft connected to the first main shaft, the second main shaft, and the output shaft of the gearbox; a first gear pair, the first gear pair connected to the first main shaft and the countershaft; a second gear pair, the second gear pair connected to the second main shaft and the countershaft; the at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor and a second motor, the first motor connected to the first main shaft and the second main shaft; a connecting shaft connected to the first motor; and the at least one power consumer comprises a first power consumer connected to the first main shaft and / or a second power consumer connected to the connecting shaft. The method comprises: controlling the powertrain to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox, and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox.

[0024] The first and second main shafts may be connected to at least one propulsion unit such that propulsion torque can be provided simultaneously on the first and second main shafts. Thus, propulsion torque can be provided in parallel. Propulsion torque is defined herein as torque provided by means of at least one propulsion unit to propel the vehicle. Thus, the first and second main shafts may be arranged such that propulsion torque provided by means of the at least one propulsion unit can be divided / split between the first and second main shafts.

[0025] The power system may be controlled to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from the second main shaft to the first main shaft by reducing the propulsion torque provided to the second main shaft and gradually increasing the propulsion torque provided to the first main shaft. Furthermore, the power system may be controlled to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from the first main shaft to the second main shaft by reducing the propulsion torque provided to the first main shaft and gradually increasing the propulsion torque provided to the second main shaft.

[0026] The output shaft of the gearbox is connected to the drive wheels of the vehicle. A drive shaft may be arranged between the output shaft of the gearbox and the drive wheels. The power and torque delivered by the propulsion unit are transmitted through the gearbox and further to the output shaft of the gearbox. The power and torque are further transmitted from the output shaft of the gearbox to the drive wheels via the drive shaft. In addition, due to the mass and weight of the vehicle, during driving conditions where the vehicle is traveling without power generated by the propulsion unit, the power and torque from the drive wheels are further transmitted from the drive wheels to the gearbox via the drive shaft and the output shaft.

[0027] Controlling the powertrain to gradually transfer propulsion torque from the second main shaft to the first main shaft may include maintaining the same propulsion torque at the output shaft of the transmission. The propulsion torque at the output shaft of the transmission is the actual torque used to propel the vehicle. The propulsion torque at the output shaft of the transmission may be a desired torque requested by a vehicle operator minus the torque extracted by the power consumer. The load of at least one power consumer may thus cause an offset between the desired torque and the torque provided at the output shaft of the transmission. The desired torque may be determined according to conventional methods, such as based on a signal from an accelerator pedal.

[0028] The gearbox can include any number of gear pairs. Each gear pair can include a cogwheel arranged on the layshaft and a pinion arranged on the first or second mainshaft. The cogwheel can be configured to be mechanically connectable to and disconnectable from the layshaft. The pinion can be fixedly connected to the first or second mainshaft. When the cogwheel is connected to the layshaft, the cogwheel rotates with the layshaft. When the cogwheel is disconnected from the layshaft, the cogwheel can rotate relative to the layshaft. When the cogwheels of a gear pair are connected to the layshaft, the corresponding gears are engaged. Thus, the gearbox can achieve multiple fixed gear steps. Thus, a gear pair can be disconnected with the corresponding cogwheel disconnected from the layshaft, and a gear pair can be connected with the corresponding cogwheel connected to the layshaft. Alternatively, the cogwheel can be fixedly connected to the layshaft, and the pinion can be mechanically connected to the first or second mainshaft and disconnected from the first and second mainshafts. In a gearbox in which the propulsion torque can be split between the first and second mainshafts, the gear pair can be permanently connected to both the first and second mainshafts. Thus, even when no propulsion torque is provided on the first primary shaft, the gear associated with the first primary shaft can always be engaged. Similarly, the gear pair can always be connected to the second primary shaft and the countershaft.

[0029] The cogwheel can be configured to be mechanically connected to and disconnected from the secondary shaft, the first primary shaft, or the second primary shaft by means of a coupling element. The coupling elements can each include an annular sleeve that is axially displaceable between a connected state and a disconnected state. The sleeve can be displaced between the connected state and the disconnected state by means of a power element.

[0030] When the first and second motors are propulsion units, the vehicle is propelled by electricity. Electricity can be transferred to the motors from an energy storage unit (e.g., a battery) in the vehicle. The first motor is connected to a first main shaft, and the second motor is connected to a second main shaft.

[0031] The first and second main shafts may be connected to the first and second electric motors such that propulsion torque can be provided simultaneously on the first and second main shafts. Propulsion torque can thus be provided in parallel. Propulsion torque is thus provided by means of the first and second electric motors to propel the vehicle. The first and second main shafts may thus be arranged such that propulsion torque provided by means of the first and second electric motors can be divided / split between the first and second main shafts.

[0032] The power system may be controlled so as to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from the second main shaft to the first main shaft by gradually reducing the power and torque of the second motor acting on the second main shaft, and so as to gradually increase the propulsion torque provided by the first motor on the first main shaft by gradually increasing the power and torque of the first motor acting on the first main shaft. In addition, the power system may be controlled so as to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from the first main shaft to the second main shaft by gradually reducing the power and torque of the first motor acting on the first main shaft, and so as to gradually increase the propulsion torque provided by the second motor on the second main shaft by gradually increasing the power and torque of the second motor acting on the second main shaft.

[0033] A connecting shaft connected to the first electric motor can be connected to the rotor shaft of the first electric motor. The connecting shaft allows the device to be connected to the first electric motor. The device can be driven by the first electric motor via the connecting shaft. The device can alternatively or in combination provide electrical power and propeller torque to the gearbox and the first electric motor.

[0034] Each gear pair in the transmission has a gear ratio tailored to the desired driving characteristics of the vehicle. When the lowest gear is engaged, the gear pair with the highest gear ratio relative to the other gear pairs is connected. This gear pair with the highest gear ratio can be referred to as the starting gear. The gear pair forming the starting gear can be connected to the second primary shaft and the countershaft. This allows the vehicle to be launched from a standstill without interrupting the power supply and torque to the first power consumer connected to the first primary shaft.

[0035] The first power consumption device may be connected to a first auxiliary shaft, which may be connected to the first main shaft via a first gear pair or any other gear pair / pinion connected to the first main shaft. The first auxiliary pinion may be fixedly arranged on the first auxiliary shaft. The first auxiliary pinion may be arranged to engage with the first gear pair or any other gear pair connected to the first main shaft. Thus, the first auxiliary pinion may be arranged to engage with the first pinion on the first main shaft. The first auxiliary shaft connected to the first main shaft means that the power consumption device connected to the first auxiliary shaft is not connected to the vehicle's propulsion device.

[0036] Alternatively or in combination, the second power consumer is connected to and driven by a connecting shaft, which is connected to the first motor. When driven by the connecting shaft, the first main shaft transmits torque and rotational motion to the second power consumer. The second power consumer can be connected to the power system alternatively or in combination with the first power consumer. The second power consumer can be driven during stationary, starting and driving of the vehicle. The second power consumer can also be driven during gear shifting in the gearbox. According to an example, the power system also includes a combustion engine as a propulsion unit. However, the second power consumer can also be driven when the combustion engine is turned off.

[0037] The powertrain can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first primary shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox.Since the first power consumer can be connected to the first primary shaft, the first power consumer can be driven during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and therefore of the vehicle.

[0038] Alternatively, the powertrain can be controlled during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the connecting shaft. Since the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, the second power consumer can be driven during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and therefore during a stationary state of the vehicle.

[0039] Alternatively, the powertrain can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first primary shaft and on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox. Since the first power consumer can be connected to the first primary shaft and the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, both the first power consumer and the second power consumer can be driven during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and, therefore, during a stationary state of the vehicle.

[0040] The power system can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the transmission. Because the first power consumer can be connected to the first main shaft, the first power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the transmission. This means that the first power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during vehicle launch.

[0041] Alternatively, the powertrain can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the connecting shaft during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the transmission output shaft. Because the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the transmission output shaft. This means that the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during vehicle launch.

[0042] Alternatively, the powertrain can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and on the connecting shaft during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the transmission. Because the first power consumer can be connected to the first main shaft and the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, the first and second power consumers can be driven uninterruptedly during the transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the transmission. This means that both the first and second power consumers can be driven uninterruptedly during vehicle launch.

[0043] The power system can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. Because the first power consumer can be connected to the first main shaft, the first power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. This means that the first power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly while the vehicle is being driven.

[0044] Alternatively, the powertrain can be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the connecting shaft during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. Because the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. This means the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly while the vehicle is being driven.

[0045] The power system may alternatively be controlled to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and on the connecting shaft during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. Since the first power consumer can be connected to the first main shaft and the second power consumer can be connected to the connecting shaft, the first power consumer and the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly during a gear shift from one gear in the transmission to another. This means that the first power consumer and the second power consumer can both be driven uninterruptedly when driving the vehicle and shifting gears in the transmission. In addition, the first power consumer and the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly when driving the vehicle before shifting gears in the transmission. Furthermore, the first power consumer and the second power consumer can be driven uninterruptedly when driving the vehicle after the gears in the transmission have been shifted.

[0046] According to an example, controlling the power system to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a shift from one gear to another in the gearbox comprises controlling the power system to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from one of the first and second main shafts to the other of the first or second main shafts.

[0047] During vehicle launch, propulsion torque is transmitted only from the second main shaft to the output shaft. Therefore, during launch, substantially no propulsion torque is available on the first main shaft for transmission to the output shaft. The torque acting on the first main shaft is intended for the first power consumer. Therefore, the propulsion torque available on the transmission's output shaft is transmitted only from the second main shaft and the countershaft. As propulsion torque gradually transfers from the second main shaft to the first main shaft, propulsion torque on the transmission's output shaft is transmitted from both the first and second main shafts.

[0048] Gear shifting in a gearbox may require torque balancing or synchronous speed to achieve good comfort and reduce wear on gearbox components. When a power consumer is connected to the gearbox, it is necessary to know the load exerted by the power consumer on the first main shaft and the connecting shaft and, based on this information, control the gearbox to achieve torque balancing. The load exerted by the power consumer can be determined using various torque sensors placed on the connected power consumer.

[0049] According to an example, the gearbox further comprises a first planetary gear connected to the first main shaft; a second planetary gear connected to the first planetary gear and the second main shaft, wherein the first motor is connected to the first main shaft via the first planetary gear and the second motor is connected to the second main shaft via the second planetary gear.

[0050] The first planetary gear may include a first ring gear connected to the first electric motor. The first planetary gear may also include a first sun gear and a first planetary gear carrier. The second planetary gear may include a second ring gear connected to the second electric motor. The second planetary gear may also include a second sun gear and a second planetary gear carrier. The first planetary gear carrier may be connected to the combustion engine. The first planetary gear carrier may also be connected to the second sun gear of the second planetary gear. The first mainshaft may be connected to the first sun gear of the first planetary gear. The second mainshaft may be connected to the second planetary gear carrier. The second planetary gear carrier in the second planetary gear may be directly connected to the second mainshaft. The first sun gear in the first planetary gear may be connected to the first mainshaft, and the second planetary gear carrier in the second planetary gear may be connected to the second mainshaft. The first set of planetary gears may be mounted on the first planetary gear carrier. The second set of planetary gears may be mounted on the second planetary gear carrier. The first set of planetary gears interacts with the first ring gear and the first sun gear. The second set of planetary gears interacts with the second ring gear and the second sun gear.

[0051] The motors connected to the planetary gears can generate electricity and / or supply torque depending on the desired operating mode. The motors can also power each other at certain operating times.

[0052] The first and second coupling devices can be arranged between the planetary gear carriers and the sun gears of the respective planetary gears. The coupling devices can be configured to connect (lock) the respective planetary gear carriers to the respective sun gears. When the planetary gear carriers and the sun gears are connected to each other, power from the combustion engine passes through the planetary gear carriers, the coupling devices, the sun gears, and further to the first and / or second main shafts. This prevents the planetary gears from absorbing any torque. The dimensions of the planetary gears can therefore be adapted to the torque of the electric motor.

[0053] According to an example, at least one propulsion unit further comprises a combustion engine, which is connected to the first planetary gear via a connecting shaft.

[0054] According to an example, at least one propulsion unit comprises a combustion engine, a first electric motor and a second electric motor. The gearbox may further comprise a first planetary gear connected to the combustion engine and the first main shaft; a second planetary gear connected to the first planetary gear and the second main shaft, wherein the first electric motor is connected to the first planetary gear and the second electric motor is connected to the second planetary gear. The step of controlling the powertrain may thus comprise controlling the combustion engine and / or the first electric motor and / or the second electric motor to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from the second main shaft to the first main shaft. Thus, in this example, the powertrain is a hybrid powertrain. This powertrain allows gear shifting without torque interruption. In addition, with a powertrain comprising two planetary gear units, a conventional slip clutch between the combustion engine and the gearbox can be avoided.

[0055] According to an example, the method comprises the further step of controlling the first and / or second electric machine to start the combustion engine.

[0056] When the first motor and / or the second motor are controlled to transmit torque to the combustion engine, the combustion engine can be started. The combustion engine can be started while the vehicle is being driven. Even when torque is transmitted to the output shaft and the power consumption device, torque can still be transmitted to the combustion engine.

[0057] According to one example, the output shaft of the combustion engine is connected to the first planetary gear via the connecting shaft, and wherein the output shaft of the combustion engine can be connected to the connecting shaft by a controllable clutch, wherein the method includes the further steps of: controlling the starting motor of the combustion engine to start the combustion engine, controlling the first motor and / or the second motor to synchronize the rotational speed of the connecting shaft with the rotational speed of the output shaft of the combustion engine, and controlling the clutch to connect the combustion engine and the connecting shaft.

[0058] A controllable clutch for connecting and disconnecting an output shaft of a combustion engine with a connecting shaft may comprise an annular sleeve which is axially displaceable between a connected state and a disconnected state. The sleeve may be displaced between the connected state and the disconnected state by means of a power element.

[0059] By controlling the clutch to disconnect the combustion engine from the connecting shaft, the combustion engine's output shaft can rotate freely relative to the connecting shaft and, therefore, the gearbox. Consequently, the combustion engine's output shaft can rotate at a different speed than the connecting shaft. Furthermore, the combustion engine's output shaft can remain stationary while the connecting shaft rotates.

[0060] When the output shaft of the combustion engine is disconnected from the connecting shaft, the combustion engine's starter motor is controlled to start the combustion engine. After combustion has begun, the combustion engine may idle at a low speed on the combustion engine's output shaft. However, the rotational speed of the combustion engine's output shaft may be different from the idle speed after the combustion engine has started.

[0061] To connect the output shaft of the combustion engine to the connecting shaft, the first motor and / or the second motor are controlled to synchronize the rotational speed of the connecting shaft with the rotational speed of the output shaft of the combustion engine. When the rotational speeds of the output shaft of the combustion engine and the connecting shaft are synchronized, the clutch is controlled to connect the combustion engine to the connecting shaft.

[0062] According to an example, the gearbox further comprises a planetary gear connected to the second main shaft, wherein the second electric machine is connected to the second main shaft via the second planetary gear.

[0063] The gearbox may include a planetary gear coupled to the second mainshaft and the second electric motor. The planetary gear may transmit torque and speed from the second electric motor to the second mainshaft. Furthermore, when the second electric motor functions as a generator, torque and speed from the second mainshaft may be transmitted to the second electric motor. The planetary gear may also be coupled to the first electric motor. The sun gear of the planetary gear may be coupled to the first electric motor, the planetary gear carrier may be coupled to the second mainshaft, and the ring gear may be coupled to the second electric motor.

[0064] The present disclosure also relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method disclosed above. The present disclosure also relates to a computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method disclosed above.

[0065] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided comprising a power system. The power system comprises at least one propulsion unit, a gearbox, and a control device. The gearbox comprises: a first main shaft; a second main shaft; an output shaft of the gearbox, the output shaft connected to the drive wheels of the vehicle; a countershaft, the countershaft connected to the first main shaft, the second main shaft, and the output shaft of the gearbox; a first gear pair, the first gear pair connected to the first main shaft and the countershaft; a second gear pair, the second gear pair connected to the second main shaft and the countershaft; and at least one power consumer connected to the power system; wherein the at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor and a second motor, wherein the first motor is connected to the first main shaft and the second motor is connected to the second main shaft; wherein a connecting shaft is connected to the first motor; wherein the at least one power consumer comprises a first power consumer connected to the first main shaft and / or a second power consumer connected to the connecting shaft; and wherein the control device is configured to: control the power system to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox, and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox.

[0066] It should be understood that all embodiments described for the method aspects of the present disclosure executed by the control device also apply to the vehicle and control device aspects of the present disclosure. That is, the control device can be configured to perform any step of the method according to the various examples above.

[0067] The control device may be configured to control the power system to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft and / or on the connecting shaft during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox. The control device may be configured to control the power system to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from one of the first main shaft and the second main shaft to the other of the first main shaft or the second main shaft. The control device may be configured to control the first motor and / or the second motor to start the combustion engine. The control device may be configured to control a starter motor of the combustion engine to start the combustion engine, control the first motor and / or the second motor to synchronize the rotational speed of the connecting shaft with the rotational speed of the output shaft of the combustion engine, and control the clutch to connect the combustion engine to the connecting shaft.

[0068] The power consumption device may include a power take-off, an air compressor, an air conditioning device or the like. The power consumption device may include a hot shift connection to the power system. By gradually transmitting the propulsion torque between the main shafts, it is possible to connect and disconnect the power consumption device by reducing or stopping any torque on the main shaft connected to the power consumption device, but still delivering torque on the output shaft. When no torque is transmitted to the power consumption device, the power consumption device can be connected or disconnected.

[0069] The present disclosure will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] Figure 1 A schematic side view of a vehicle 1 is shown. Vehicle 1 includes a gearbox 2 and at least one propulsion unit 4, which are included in a power system 3 of vehicle 1. The at least one propulsion unit 4 is connected to gearbox 2, which is further connected to drive wheels 6 of vehicle 1. The at least one propulsion unit 4 may include an internal combustion engine 4 and / or electric motors 14, 16. When vehicle 1 includes at least two propulsion units 4, 14, 16, each including one internal combustion engine 4 and at least one electric motor 14, 16, power system 3 constitutes a hybrid power system. Vehicle 1 also includes at least one power consumer PC1, PC2 connected to power system 3 for power supply.

[0071] Figure 2 The power system 3 according to an example is schematically shown. The power system 3 may include Figure 1In the disclosed vehicle 1, a powertrain 3 includes a gearbox 2 and at least one propulsion unit 4, 14, 16 connected to the gearbox 2. In this example, the powertrain 3 includes a combustion engine 4, a first electric machine 14, and a second electric machine 16. The combustion engine 4 is connected to the gearbox 2 via a connecting shaft 9 of the gearbox 2. The output shaft 8 of the combustion engine 4 can be connected to the connecting shaft 9 by a controllable clutch 5. The gearbox 2 includes: a first main shaft 34; a second main shaft 36; an output shaft 20 of the gearbox connected to the drive wheels 6 of the vehicle 1; a layshaft 18 connected to the first main shaft 34, the second main shaft 36, and the output shaft 20; a first gear pair G1 connected to the first main shaft 34 and the layshaft 18; and a second gear pair G2 connected to the second main shaft 36 and the layshaft 18. The first main shaft 34 and the second main shaft 36 can be connected to the at least one propulsion unit 4, 14, 16 so that propulsion torque can be provided on the first main shaft 34 and the second main shaft 36 simultaneously.

[0072] The powertrain 3 also includes a first auxiliary shaft 120 connected to the first power consumer PC1 and the first main shaft 34 of the gearbox 2. The first power consumer PC1 extracts torque from the powertrain 3 via the first auxiliary shaft 120, thereby applying a load to the powertrain 3. The first auxiliary shaft 120 is connected to the first main shaft via, for example, the first gear pair G1 or any other gear pair connected to the first main shaft 34 and the countershaft 18. A first auxiliary pinion 122 may be fixedly arranged on the first auxiliary shaft 120. Therefore, the first auxiliary pinion 122 may be arranged to engage with the first gear pair G1 or any other gear pair connected to the first main shaft 34.

[0073] The power system 3 also includes a second auxiliary shaft 121 connected to the second power consumer PC2 and the connecting shaft 9 of the gearbox 2. The second power consumer PC2 extracts torque from the power system 3 via the second auxiliary shaft 121, thereby applying a load to the power system 3. The second auxiliary shaft 121 is connected to the connecting shaft 9 via a second auxiliary pinion 123 and a drive gear 125 connected to the connecting shaft 9. The second auxiliary pinion 123 can be fixedly arranged on the second auxiliary shaft 121. Therefore, the second auxiliary pinion 123 can be arranged to engage with the drive gear 125 connected to the connecting shaft 9.

[0074] The gearbox 2 also includes a first planetary gear 10 and a second planetary gear 12. The first planetary gear 10 is connected to the connecting shaft 9. The second planetary gear 12 is connected to the first planetary gear 10. The first planetary gear 10 includes a first ring gear 22, which is connected to the first rotor 24 of the first motor 14. The first planetary gear 10 also includes a first sun gear 26 and a first planetary gear carrier 50. The second planetary gear 12 includes a second ring gear 28, which is connected to the second rotor 30 of the second motor 16. The second planetary gear 12 also includes a second sun gear 32 and a second planetary gear carrier 51. The first planetary gear carrier 50 can be connected to the connecting shaft 9. The first planetary gear carrier 50 can also be connected to the second sun gear 32 of the second planetary gear 12.

[0075] The first main shaft 34 can be connected to the first sun gear 26 of the first planetary gear 10. The second main shaft 36 can be connected to the second planetary gear carrier 51. The first sun gear 26 and the second sun gear 32 can be arranged coaxially. The first main shaft 34 can extend coaxially within the second main shaft 36. The first main shaft 34 can also be arranged parallel to and adjacent to the second main shaft 36.

[0076] The first electric machine 14 may include a first stator 40 connected to a gearbox housing 42 surrounding the gearbox 2. The second electric machine 16 may include a second stator 44 connected to the gearbox housing 42. The first and second electric machines 14, 16 are connected to an energy storage device (not shown), such as a battery, which can drive the electric machines 14, 16 depending on the vehicle's operating mode. In other operating modes, the electric machines 14, 16 can operate as generators, with power supplied to the energy storage device. In some operating modes, the electric machines 14, 16 can drive each other. Power is then directed from one of the electric machines 14, 16 to the other electric machine 14, 16.

[0077] A first set of planet gears 52 is mounted on the first planet carrier 50. A second set of planet gears 54 is mounted on the second planet carrier 51. The first set of planet gears 52 interacts with the first ring gear 22 and the first sun gear 26. The second set of planet gears 54 interacts with the second ring gear 28 and the second sun gear 32.

[0078] A first coupling device 56 is arranged between the first sun gear 26 and the first planet carrier 50. When the first coupling device 56 is arranged so that the first sun gear 26 and the first planet carrier 50 are connected to each other, the first sun gear 26 and the first planet carrier 50 cannot rotate relative to each other. The first planet carrier 50 and the first sun gear 26 will thus rotate at the same speed.

[0079] The second coupling device 58 is arranged between the second sun gear 32 and the second planet carrier 51. When the second coupling device 58 is arranged so that the second sun gear 32 and the second planet carrier 51 are connected to each other, the second sun gear 32 and the second planet carrier 51 cannot rotate relative to each other. As a result, the second planet carrier 51 and the second sun gear 32 rotate at the same speed.

[0080] The first and second coupling means 56 , 58 may comprise splined coupling sleeves which are axially displaceable on splined sections of the first and second planet wheel carriers 50 , 51 and on splined sections of the respective sun wheels 26 , 32 .

[0081] The first coupling device 56 and the second coupling device 58 according to this example are respectively arranged between the first sun gear 26 and the first planet carrier 50, and between the second sun gear 32 and the second planet carrier 51. However, it is possible to arrange additional or alternative coupling devices (not shown) between the first ring gear 22 and the first planet carrier 50, and also to arrange additional or alternative coupling devices (not shown) between the second ring gear 28 and the second planet carrier 51.

[0082] In this example, the first planetary gear carrier 50 in the first planetary gear 10 is fixedly connected to the second sun gear 32 of the second planetary gear 12 .

[0083] The first gear pair G1 may include a first pinion 62 and a first cogwheel 64 that engage with each other. The first pinion 62 may be disposed on the first mainshaft 34, and the first cogwheel 64 may be disposed on the countershaft 18. The auxiliary pinion 122 on the auxiliary shaft 120 may be disposed to engage with the first pinion 62 on the first mainshaft 34. The second gear pair G2 includes a second pinion 68 and a second cogwheel 70 that engage with each other. The second pinion 68 may be disposed on the second mainshaft 36, and the second cogwheel 70 may be disposed on the countershaft 18. The gearbox 2 may also include a third gear pair G3 connected to the first mainshaft 34 and the countershaft 18. The third gear pair G3 includes a third pinion 74 and a third cogwheel 76 that engage with each other. The third pinion 74 may be disposed on the first mainshaft 34, and the third cogwheel 76 may be disposed on the countershaft 18. The auxiliary pinion 122 on the auxiliary shaft 120 may be disposed to engage with the third pinion 74 on the first mainshaft 34. The gearbox 2 may further include a fourth gear pair G4 connected to the second mainshaft 36 and the countershaft 18. The fourth gear pair G4 includes a fourth pinion 80 and a fourth cogwheel 82 engaged with each other. The fourth pinion 80 may be disposed on the second mainshaft 36, and the fourth cogwheel 82 may be disposed on the countershaft 18.

[0084] The first pinion 62 and the third pinion 74 may be fixedly connected to the first main shaft 34 such that they cannot rotate relative to the first main shaft 34. The second pinion 68 and the fourth pinion 80 may be fixedly connected to the second main shaft 36 such that they cannot rotate relative to the second main shaft 36.

[0085] The first, second, third, and fourth cogwheels 64, 70, 76, and 82 can be individually connected to and disconnected from the layshaft 18 via a third and fourth coupling elements 83, 85. Coupling elements 83 and 85 can each include a coupling sleeve configured to mechanically engage splined sections on the cogwheels 64, 70, 76, and 82 and the layshaft 18. The first and third cogwheels 64, 70, 76, and 82 can be connected and disconnected with a common coupling element 83, while the second and fourth cogwheels 70 and 82 can be connected and disconnected with a common coupling element 85. In the disconnected state, relative rotation can occur between the cogwheels 64, 70, 76, and 82 and the layshaft 18. In the connected state, the cogwheels 64, 70, 76, and 82 rotate together with the layshaft 18.

[0086] The gearbox 2 also includes a fifth gear pair G5. The fifth gear pair G5 includes a fifth cogwheel 92 arranged on the layshaft 18 and a fifth pinion 94 arranged on the output shaft 20 of the gearbox. The layshaft 18 is connected to the output shaft 20 of the gearbox via the fifth gear pair G5. The fifth gearwheel 92 is arranged so that it can be connected to and disconnected from the layshaft 18 by means of a fifth coupling element 87. The fifth coupling element 87 may include a coupling sleeve configured to interact with the fifth cogwheel 92 and a splined section on the layshaft 18. In the disconnected state, relative rotation is possible between the fifth cogwheel 92 and the layshaft 18.

[0087] Propulsion torque can be transmitted from the connecting shaft 9 of the transmission 2 to the output shaft 20 of the transmission 2 via the first planetary gears 10 or the second planetary gears 12 and the layshaft 18. Torque transmission to the output shaft 20 of the transmission can also occur directly via the first planetary gears 10 and the first mainshaft 34 via the coupling mechanism 100. The coupling mechanism 100 may include a splined coupling sleeve that is axially displaceable on the first mainshaft 34 and on a splined section of the output shaft 20 of the transmission. By displacing the coupling element 100, the first mainshaft 34 is connected to the output shaft 20 of the transmission, and the first mainshaft 34 and the output shaft 20 of the transmission have the same rotational speed. By disconnecting the fifth cogwheel 92 from the layshaft 18, the torque of the second planetary gears 12 can be transmitted to the layshaft 18, from there to the first mainshaft 34, and ultimately to the output shaft 20 of the transmission via the coupling mechanism 100.

[0088] During operation, the gearbox 2 can be operated in some operating modes, such that one of the sun gears 26, 32 is connected to the first planetary carrier 50 and the second planetary carrier 51 by means of the first coupling device 56 and the second coupling device 58, respectively. The first and second main shafts 34, 36 can then achieve the same rotational speed as the connecting shaft 9 of the gearbox 2. One or both of the electric machines 14, 16 can be operated as generators to generate electricity for the energy storage device. Alternatively, the electric machines 14, 16 can provide additional torque, thereby increasing the torque on the output shaft 20 of the gearbox.

[0089] Both the first electric machine 14 and the second electric machine 16 can also generate electricity for the energy storage device. During engine braking, the driver releases the accelerator pedal (not shown) of the vehicle 1. The output shaft 20 of the transmission 2 then operates one or both of the electric machines 14, 16 during engine braking of the combustion engine 4 and the electric machines 14, 16. This operating state is known as regenerative braking.

[0090] The powertrain 3 also includes a control device 48. It will be appreciated that the control device 48 can be implemented as a separate entity or distributed across two or more physical entities. The control device 48 can include one or more control units and / or computers. Thus, the control device 48 can be implemented or realized by a control device 48 including a processor and a memory, the memory including instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the control device 48 to perform the method steps disclosed herein. The control device 48 can thus be configured to control the powertrain 3 to gradually transfer propulsion torque from the second main shaft 36 to the first main shaft 34. The powertrain 3 can include, for example, a speed sensor 200 disposed on the first main shaft 34, the countershaft 18, and / or the output shaft 20 of the gearbox.

[0091] The control device 48 is connected to the motors 14 and 16 to control the respective motors 14 and 16. The control device 48 can be configured to gather information from components of the powertrain 3 and, based on this information, control the motors 14 and 16 to operate as motors or generators. The control device 48 can be a computer with software suitable for this purpose. The control device 48 is also connected to the first and second coupling devices 56 and 58, the third and fourth coupling elements 83 and 85, and the coupling mechanism 100. These components are preferably activated and deactivated by electrical signals from the control device 48. The control device 48 is configured to control the powertrain 3 to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft 34 and / or on the connecting shaft 9 during a stationary state of the transmission output shaft and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the transmission output shaft 20 and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the transmission 2. The control device 48 is also configured to control the powertrain 3 to gradually transfer propulsion torque from one of the first and second main shafts 34 and 36 to the other of the first and second main shafts 34 and 36. The control device 48 is further configured to control the first electric machine 14 and / or the second electric machine 16 to start the combustion engine 4 .

[0092] Alternatively, the control device 48 is configured to: control the clutch to disconnect the combustion engine 4 from the connecting shaft 9, control the starting motor 49 of the combustion engine 4 to start the combustion engine 4, control the first motor 14 and / or the second motor 16 to synchronize the rotational speed of the connecting shaft 9 with the rotational speed of the output shaft of the combustion engine 4, and control the clutch to connect the combustion engine 4 with the connecting shaft 9.

[0093] Figure 2 The example in FIG shows four gear pairs G1, G2, G3, G4 and two planetary gears 10, 12 with associated electric motors 14, 16. However, the gearbox 2 can be configured with more or fewer pinions and cogwheels, and with more planetary gears with associated electric motors.

[0094] Figure 3 The power system 3 according to an example is schematically shown. The power system 3 may include Figure 1 In the disclosed vehicle 1 , the gearbox 3 includes a planetary gear 12 ′ connected to the second main shaft 36 , wherein the second motor 16 is connected to the second main shaft 36 via the planetary gear 12 ′.

[0095] The planetary gear 12' is configured to transmit torque and speed from the second electric machine 16 to the second main shaft 36. The planetary gear 12' is also connected to the first electric machine 14. The sun gear 32' of the planetary gear 12' can be connected to the first electric machine 14, the planetary gear carrier 51' can be connected to the second main shaft 36, and the ring gear 28' can be connected to the second electric machine 16.

[0096] The first auxiliary shaft 120 is connected to the first power consumer PC1 and the first main shaft 34 of the gearbox 2, similar to Figure 2 The second auxiliary shaft 121 is connected to the second power consumer PC2 and the connecting shaft 9 of the gearbox 2 via the controllable clutch 5. However, the second power consumer PC2 can be directly connected to the connecting shaft 9 of the gearbox 2 without the controllable clutch 5 and without the second auxiliary shaft 121.

[0097] The first motor 14 is connected to the first main shaft 34. In addition to the above, the power system 3 has the same Figure 2 The power system 3 is similarly configured as shown in FIG.

[0098] Figures 4a-4c A flow chart of a method for driving at least one power consumer connected to a power system of a vehicle according to an example is shown. Figure 2 or Figure 3 The power system 3 can therefore be used with Figure 1 The disclosed vehicle 1 is related. The power system 3 thus includes at least one propulsion unit 4, 14, 16 and a gearbox 2. The gearbox 2 includes: a first main shaft 34; a second main shaft 36; an output shaft 20 of the gearbox, the output shaft of which is connected to the drive wheels 6 of the vehicle 1; a layshaft 18, the layshaft being connected to the first main shaft 34, the second main shaft 36, and the output shaft 20 of the gearbox; a first gear pair G1 connected to the first main shaft 34 and the layshaft 18; and a second gear pair G2 connected to the second main shaft 36 and the layshaft 18. The at least one propulsion unit includes a first motor 14 and a second motor 16, wherein the first motor 14 is connected to the first main shaft 34 and the second motor 16 is connected to the second main shaft 36; wherein a connecting shaft 9 is connected to the first motor 14; and wherein at least one power consumer PC1, PC2 includes a first power consumer PC1 connected to the first main shaft 34 and / or a second power consumer PC2 connected to the connecting shaft 9.

[0099] according to Figure 4a In the example of , the method includes: controlling s101 the power system 3 to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft 34 and / or on the connecting shaft 9 during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft 20 of the gearbox, and / or during a shift from one gear to another in the gearbox 2.

[0100] according to Figure 4bIn the example of FIG. 1 , the method includes: controlling s101 the power system 3 to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft 34 and / or on the connecting shaft 9 during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft 20 of the gearbox, and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox 2. The method also includes: controlling s102 the first electric machine 14 and / or the second electric machine 16 to start the combustion engine 4.

[0101] according to Figure 4c In the example of FIG, the method includes: controlling s101 the power system 3 to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft 34 and / or on the connecting shaft 9 during a stationary state of the output shaft of the transmission and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft 20 of the transmission, and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the transmission 2. The method also includes: controlling s103 the starter motor 49 of the combustion engine 4 to start the combustion engine 4, controlling s104 the first electric machine 14 and / or the second electric machine 16 to synchronize the rotation speed of the connecting shaft 9 with the rotation speed of the output shaft 8 of the combustion engine 4, and controlling s105 the clutch 5 to connect the combustion engine 4 to the connecting shaft 9.

[0102] Figure 5 The form of the device 500 is shown schematically. Figure 2-Figure 3 The control device 48 described may include a device 500 in one form. The device 500 includes a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing unit 510, and a read / write memory 550. The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program, such as an operating system, is stored to control the functions of the device 500. The device 500 also includes a bus controller, a serial communication port, an I / O device, an A / D converter, a time and date input and transmission unit, an event counter, and an interrupt controller (not depicted). The non-volatile memory 520 also has a second memory element 540.

[0103] A computer program P is provided, comprising routines for controlling the powertrain system to provide uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft 34 and / or on the connecting shaft 9 during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft 20 of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox 2. The program P may be stored in executable form or compressed form in the memory 560 and / or the read / write memory 550.

[0104] When the data processing unit 510 is described as performing a certain function, this means that the data processing unit 510 affects a specific portion of the program stored in the memory 560 or a specific portion of the program stored in the read / write memory 550 .

[0105] The data processing device 510 can communicate with the data port 599 via a data bus 515. The non-volatile memory 520 is intended to communicate with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 512. The separate memory 560 is intended to communicate with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 511. The read / write memory 550 is adapted to communicate with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 514.

[0106] When data is received on the data port 599, the data is temporarily stored in the second memory element 540. When the received input data has been temporarily stored, the data processing unit 510 is ready to implement code execution as described above.

[0107] Part of the method described herein can be implemented by apparatus 500 with the aid of data processing unit 510, which runs a program stored in memory 560 or read / write memory 550. When apparatus 500 runs the program, the method described herein is performed.

[0108] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is provided for illustration and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the variations described. Numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those skilled in the art. These embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and thereby enable those skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with various modifications as are appropriate for its intended use.

Claims

1. A method, executed by a control device (48), for driving at least one power consumer connected to a power system (3) of a vehicle (1), the power system (3) comprising at least one propulsion unit (4, 14, 16) and a gearbox (2), the gearbox (2) comprising: first spindle (34); Second spindle (36); an output shaft (20) of the gearbox, the output shaft being connected to the drive wheels (6) of the vehicle (1); a countershaft (18) connected to the first mainshaft (34), the second mainshaft (36) and the output shaft (20) of the gearbox; a first gear pair (G1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and the counter shaft (18); a second gear pair (G2) connected to the second main shaft (36) and the countershaft (18); wherein the at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor (14) and a second motor (16), wherein the first motor (14) is connected to the first main shaft (34) and the second motor (16) is connected to the second main shaft (36); wherein the connecting shaft (9) is connected to the first motor (14); and wherein the at least one power consumer comprises a first power consumer (PC1) connected to the first spindle (34) and / or a second power consumer (PC2) connected to the connecting shaft (9), wherein the gearbox (2) further comprises a first planetary gear (10) connected to the first main shaft (34), a second planetary gear (12) connected to the first planetary gear (10) and the second main shaft (36), wherein the first motor (14) is connected to the first main shaft via the first planetary gear (10), and the second motor (16) is connected to the second main shaft via the second planetary gear (12), The method comprises: During a stationary state of the output shaft (20) of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft (20) of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox (2), the power system (3) is controlled so that an uninterrupted propulsion torque is provided on the first main shaft (34) and / or on the connecting shaft (9) to drive a first power consumer (PC1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and / or a second power consumer (PC2) connected to the connecting shaft (9).

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein during a stationary state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft of the gearbox and / or during a shift from one gear to another in the gearbox (2), controlling the power system (3) to provide an uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft (34) and / or on the connecting shaft comprises controlling the power system (3) to gradually transfer the propulsion torque from one of the first main shaft and the second main shaft (34, 36) to the other of the first main shaft or the second main shaft (34, 36).

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the at least one propulsion unit further comprises a combustion engine (4), which is connected to the first planetary gear (10) via the connecting shaft (9).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the method comprises the further steps of: The first electric machine and / or the second electric machine (14, 16) are controlled to start the combustion engine (4).

5. The method according to claim 3, wherein the output shaft (8) of the combustion engine (4) is connected to the first planetary gear (10) via the connecting shaft (9), and wherein, The output shaft (8) of the combustion engine (4) can be connected to the connecting shaft (9) by a controllable clutch (5), wherein the method comprises the further steps of: controlling a starter motor (49) of the combustion engine (4) to start the combustion engine (4), controlling the first motor and / or the second motor (14, 16) to synchronize the rotational speed of the connecting shaft (9) with the rotational speed of the output shaft (8) of the combustion engine (4), and The controllable clutch (5) is controlled to connect the combustion engine (4) and the connecting shaft (9).

6. A computer program product (P) comprising instructions which, when the computer program product is executed by a computer (48; 500), cause the computer (48; 500) to carry out the method according to any one of the preceding claims.

7. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer (48; 500), cause the computer (48; 500) to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A vehicle (1) comprising a power system (3), the power system (3) comprising: at least one propulsion unit (4, 14, 16); Gearbox (2); as well as a control device (48), The gearbox (2) comprises: first spindle (34); Second spindle (36); an output shaft (20) of the gearbox, the output shaft being connected to the drive wheels (6) of the vehicle (1); a countershaft (18) connected to the first mainshaft (34), the second mainshaft (36) and the output shaft (20) of the gearbox; a first gear pair (G1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and the counter shaft (18); a second gear pair (G2) connected to the second main shaft (36) and the countershaft (18); and at least one power consumer connected to the power system (3), wherein the at least one propulsion unit comprises a first motor (14) and a second motor (16), wherein the first motor (14) is connected to the first main shaft (34) and the second motor (16) is connected to the second main shaft (36); wherein the connecting shaft (9) is connected to the first motor (14); wherein the at least one power consumption device comprises a first power consumption device (PC1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and / or a second power consumption device (PC2) connected to the connecting shaft (9); wherein the gearbox (2) further comprises a first planetary gear (10) connected to the first main shaft (34); a second planetary gear (12) connected to the first planetary gear (10) and the second main shaft (36), wherein the first motor (14) is connected to the first main shaft via the first planetary gear (10), and the second motor (16) is connected to the second main shaft via the second planetary gear (12); and The control device (48) is configured to control the power system (3) during a stationary state of the output shaft (20) of the gearbox and / or during a transition from a stationary state to a rotating state of the output shaft (20) of the gearbox and / or during a gear shift from one gear to another in the gearbox (2) so as to provide an uninterrupted propulsion torque on the first main shaft (34) and / or on the connecting shaft (9) to drive a first power consumer (PC1) connected to the first main shaft (34) and / or a second power consumer (PC2) connected to the connecting shaft (9).

9. The vehicle (1) of claim 8, wherein the control device (48) is configured to control the power system (3) to gradually transfer propulsion torque from one of the first and second main shafts (34, 36) to the other of the first or second main shafts (34, 36).

10. The vehicle (1) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one propulsion unit further comprises a combustion engine (4), which is connected to the first planetary gear (10) via the connecting shaft (9).

11. The vehicle (1) according to claim 10, wherein the control device (48) is configured to control the first and / or second electric machine (14, 16) to start the combustion engine (4).

12. The vehicle (1) according to claim 10, wherein the output shaft (8) of the combustion engine (4) is connected to the first planetary gear (10) via the connecting shaft (9), and wherein, The output shaft (8) of the combustion engine (4) can be connected to the connecting shaft (9) by a controllable clutch (5), and the control device (48) is configured to: control the starting motor (49) of the combustion engine (4) to start the combustion engine (4), control the first motor and / or the second motor (14, 16) to synchronize the rotation speed of the connecting shaft (9) with the rotation speed of the output shaft of the combustion engine (4), and control the controllable clutch (5) to connect the combustion engine (4) and the connecting shaft (9).

Images