Hybrid mode determination method and system based on vehicle load

Abstract

The invention relates to a hybrid mode determination method and system based on a vehicle load. A system for a vehicle is provided. The system includes a controller including at least one processing circuit including at least one memory coupled to at least one processor. The controller is configured to: receive a value regarding a weight of the vehicle; receiving a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device coupled to the controller; setting a speed threshold of the vehicle based on a value indicative of an operating condition of the energy storage device; setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of an operating condition of the energy storage device; receiving a current speed and power demand; and in response to determining that the current speed is greater than the speed threshold, implementing a predefined drive mode of a plurality of drive modes for the vehicle based on the power demand.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for selecting a drive mode and automatic or nearly automatic implementation to provide various technical operational improvements, such as improved fuel economy, for a hybrid powertrain vehicle.

[0002] background

[0003] A hybrid powertrain can use one or more electric motor-generators and an internal combustion engine to propel a vehicle. The motor-generator can be mechanically coupled to a drivetrain to directly power it and mechanically coupled to an energy storage device to provide electrical energy for storage. The internal combustion engine can be mechanically coupled to the drivetrain to also directly power it. Hybrid powertrains can be attractive because they rely less on the internal combustion engine to propel the vehicle and they reduce energy consumption, thereby lowering operating costs.

[0004] Overview

[0005] One embodiment relates to a system for a vehicle. The system includes a controller. The controller includes at least one processing circuit, the at least one processing circuit including at least one memory coupled to at least one processor. The controller is configured to receive a value relating to a weight of the vehicle and a value indicating an operating condition of an energy storage device coupled to the controller. The controller is further configured to set a speed threshold for the vehicle based on the value indicating the operating condition of the energy storage device, and to set a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on the value indicating the operating condition of the energy storage device. The controller is further configured to receive a current speed and a power demand, and in response to determining that the current speed is greater than the speed threshold, implement a predefined drive mode of a plurality of drive modes for the vehicle based on the power demand.

[0006] Another embodiment relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes an electric motor and a controller coupled to the electric motor, the electric motor configured to provide at least a portion of the vehicle's power requirements. The controller is configured to: set a speed threshold based on a value relating to the vehicle's weight and a value indicating an operating condition of an energy storage device of the vehicle; implement a drive mode based on the value and the speed threshold; and control the electric motor based on the drive mode.

[0007] Yet another embodiment relates to a method. The method includes receiving a value related to a vehicle weight and receiving a value indicating an operating condition of an energy storage device. The method also includes setting a speed threshold based on the value indicating the operating condition of the energy storage device and the value related to the vehicle weight, and setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on the value indicating the operating condition of the energy storage device. The method also includes receiving a current speed and a power demand. The method also includes implementing a predefined driving mode from a plurality of driving modes based on the power demand in response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold.

[0008] Various aspects of the present application may be implemented in one or more of the following embodiments:

[0009] Item 1): A system for a vehicle, comprising:

[0010] a controller comprising at least one processing circuit including at least one memory coupled to at least one processor, the controller being configured to:

[0011] receiving a value regarding a weight of the vehicle;

[0012] receiving a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device coupled to the controller;

[0013] setting a speed threshold for the vehicle based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device;

[0014] setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device;

[0015] receiving the current speed and power requirements; and

[0016] In response to determining that the current speed is greater than the speed threshold, a predefined driving mode of a plurality of driving modes is implemented for the vehicle based on the power demand.

[0017] Item 2): The system according to item 1), wherein the controller is further configured to define an energy threshold.

[0018] Item 3): The system according to item 2), wherein the controller is further configured to: set the speed threshold to a predetermined speed in response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold.

[0019] Item 4): A system according to Item 3), wherein the controller is further configured to: in response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than or equal to the energy threshold, set the speed threshold to zero and set the predefined driving mode to one of a recharging mode, an engine driving mode, or a power split mode.

[0020] Item 5): The system according to item 3), wherein, in response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than or equal to the energy threshold, the controller is further configured to:

[0021] In response to the power demand being less than the first power threshold, setting the predefined driving mode to a recharging mode;

[0022] In response to the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than the second power threshold, setting the predefined driving mode to a motor driving mode; and

[0023] In response to the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, the predefined driving mode is set to a power split mode.

[0024] Item 6): The system according to item 1), wherein the second power threshold is greater than the first power threshold.

[0025] Item 7): The system according to item 1), wherein the controller is further configured to: implement the electric drive mode in response to the current speed being not greater than the speed threshold.

[0026] Item 8): The system according to item 1), wherein the controller is further configured to: adjust at least one of the first power threshold and the second power threshold.

[0027] Item 9): A means of transport comprising:

[0028] an electric motor configured to provide at least a portion of the power requirements of the vehicle;

[0029] a controller coupled to the electric motor, the controller configured to:

[0030] setting a speed threshold based on a value relating to a weight of a vehicle and a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device of the vehicle;

[0031] implementing a drive mode based on the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device and the speed threshold; and

[0032] The electric motor is controlled based on the driving mode.

[0033] Item 10): The vehicle according to Item 9), wherein the controller is further configured to:

[0034] In response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than an energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to zero.

[0035] Item 11): The vehicle according to Item 10), wherein the controller is further configured to:

[0036] In response to a current speed being less than the speed threshold and the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than or equal to the energy threshold, an electric vehicle drive mode is implemented.

[0037] Item 12): The vehicle according to Item 11), wherein the controller is further configured to set a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device.

[0038] Item 13): A vehicle according to Item 12), wherein the controller is further configured to: in response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being less than the first power threshold, implement an engine recharging mode in which the electric motor provides power to the energy storage device.

[0039] Item 14): A vehicle according to Item 12), wherein the controller is further configured to: implement an engine-only drive mode in response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than or equal to the second power threshold.

[0040] Item 15): A vehicle according to Item 12), wherein the controller is further configured to: in response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, implement a power split mode in which the electric motor provides a portion of the power demand to the vehicle.

[0041] Item 16): A method comprising:

[0042] receiving a value related to a vehicle's weight;

[0043] receiving a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device;

[0044] setting a speed threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device and a value relating to the vehicle weight;

[0045] setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device;

[0046] receiving the current speed and power requirements; and

[0047] In response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold, a predefined driving mode among a plurality of driving modes is implemented based on the power demand.

[0048] Item 17): The method according to Item 16), further comprising:

[0049] Setting energy thresholds; and

[0050] In response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than or equal to the energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to zero and the predefined drive mode is set to one of a recharge mode, a motor mode, or a power split mode.

[0051] Item 18): The method according to Item 17), further comprising:

[0052] implementing the predefined driving mode as a recharging mode in response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being less than the first power threshold;

[0053] implementing the predefined driving mode as a motor mode in response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than the second power threshold; and

[0054] In response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, the predefined driving mode is implemented as a power split mode.

[0055] Item 19): The method according to item 18), wherein implementing the recharging mode activates an electric motor to provide power to the energy storage device.

[0056] Item 20): The method according to Item 16), further comprising:

[0057] At least one of the first power threshold and the second power threshold is adjusted.

[0058] Many specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The described features of the disclosed subject matter may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and / or embodiments. In this regard, one or more features of an aspect of the present invention may be combined with one or more features of different aspects of the present invention. In addition, additional features that may not be present in all embodiments or embodiments may be identified in certain embodiments and / or embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0060] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system according to an example embodiment.

[0061] Figure 2 According to an example embodiment Figure 1 Block diagram of the system controller.

[0062] Figure 3A is a driving mode decision diagram for enabling a driving mode according to an example embodiment.

[0063] Figure 3B is a system efficiency map for determining a driving mode according to an example embodiment.

[0064] Figure 4 is a flow chart of a method of enabling and implementing a drive mode according to an example embodiment.

[0065] Figure 5 is another flow chart of a method of enabling and implementing a drive mode according to an example embodiment.

[0066] Figure 6 is a graph illustrating speed thresholds for a system according to an example embodiment.

[0067] Detailed description

[0068] What follows is a more detailed description of various concepts related to methods, apparatus, computer-readable media, and systems for enabling and implementing automatic or nearly automatic drive mode selection for a system, as well as a more detailed description of implementations of the methods, apparatus, computer-readable media, and systems. According to various example embodiments, the drive mode can be selected by a controller of the system from a plurality of drive modes based on vehicle weight or load and the state of charge of the system. Before turning to the drawings that illustrate certain example embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the specification or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0069] As used herein, the term "estimate" is used to refer to determining a value that is not a measured value, such as a measurement result from a real sensor (e.g., a temperature measured by a temperature sensor, etc.). In other words, an estimate refers to an approximation of a value, which may be different from the actual value or measured value. A value can be estimated based on information from a real sensor (e.g., sensor data, historical sensor data, real-time sensor data, etc.) or information from another source. In some embodiments, estimating a value can be performed using one or more models (e.g., statistical models, artificial intelligence models, machine learning models, etc.). For example, estimating a temperature value can include using data (e.g., sensor data) and a model to determine a temperature value. As used herein, the term "measurement" and similar terms are used to refer to determining an approximate value based on detecting or receiving information about a desired parameter (e.g., using a sensor). A measured value may be close to, but not necessarily exactly, the actual value of the measured value, but is still a closer or more accurate approximation relative to the "estimated" value.

[0070] As used herein, the term "predict" and similar terms are used to refer to determining or estimating future values based on data (e.g., sensor data, historical sensor data, real-time sensor data, etc.). In some embodiments, determining future values can be performed using one or more models (e.g., statistical models, artificial intelligence models, machine learning models, etc.) and / or other processes or mechanisms (e.g., lookup tables, etc.). For example, predicting a change in the temperature of a component can include determining or estimating the current temperature (e.g., based on sensor data) and modeling or looking up the future temperature of the component based on a change in engine operation (e.g., activation of an engine braking operating mode).

[0071] As utilized herein, the term "operational data" and similar terms are used to refer to data regarding the operation of a system (e.g., an engine system). In some embodiments, the operational data may include settings, values, or other information regarding the operation of the system. The operational data may be measured (e.g., by one or more real sensors), estimated (e.g., by one or more virtual sensors or by computer equipment or processing circuitry), and / or otherwise determined.

[0072] As described herein, a system may include an engine (e.g., an internal combustion engine, etc.), an electric machine (e.g., a motor generator), at least one battery, a transmission, and a controller (e.g., a system controller, SCM, etc.). The system controller may control a drive mode of the engine system, which affects power distribution and fuel economy of the system.

[0073] As described herein, a drive mode is an operating state of a system. A drive mode can enable the system to activate various components to provide power. For example, a drive mode can enable a first portion of the system power to be provided by the engine, while a second portion of the system power is provided by the motor. For example, the engine can provide 60% of the system's power requirement, while the motor can provide 40% of the system's power requirement. The engine and the motor can provide any combination of the first portion of power and the second portion of power, respectively, to meet (e.g., satisfy, etc.) the power requirement of the system. In some embodiments, the drive mode can enable the engine to provide the entire power requirement of the system. In other embodiments, the motor can provide the entire power requirement of the system.

[0074] To minimize fuel consumption, the system controller can switch the engine system between various drive modes to minimize fuel consumption (e.g., maximize fuel efficiency, etc.) and maintain a minimum value with respect to one or more desired operating conditions, such as a minimum state of charge (SOC) of one or more batteries of the system. For example, the systems and methods described herein can minimize fuel consumption when the state of charge of the hybrid vehicle battery is high (e.g., above a predefined high SOC threshold) and minimize electrical power consumption when the state of charge of the hybrid vehicle battery is low (e.g., below a predefined low SOC threshold).

[0075] Advantageously, a system controller (e.g., a control system, a controller, etc.) can control the operation of the system to automatically or nearly automatically selectively enable a particular drive mode based on various parameters in one or more operating parameters. More specifically, and as described herein, the controller can select a drive mode based on one or more of the SOC of the hybrid vehicle battery, a vehicle speed threshold, and a power threshold. Additionally, the speed threshold can be determined based on a value regarding the vehicle weight (e.g., an estimated vehicle weight, vehicle mass, vehicle load, etc.) and the current state of charge level. By dynamically examining one or more of these parameters, various advantages can be achieved, such as minimizing fuel consumption as described herein above.

[0076] In some embodiments, the controller may receive data or values regarding the state of charge, temperature, or health of the hybrid vehicle battery from one or more sensors (e.g., actual sensors and / or virtual sensors). In some embodiments, the controller may compare the received values (e.g., SOC, temperature, etc.) with one or more threshold values. The controller may determine the driving mode based at least in part on the comparison.

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, a value regarding the weight of the vehicle (e.g., estimated weight, measured weight, vehicle mass, vehicle load, etc.) and a value indicating an operating condition (e.g., the state of charge of the hybrid battery, etc.) are estimated and stored (e.g., stored in a storage device, etc.). For example, the vehicle weight can be determined by one or more weight sensors (e.g., actual sensors and / or virtual sensors), and the state of charge can be determined by one or more charge sensors (e.g., actual sensors and / or virtual sensors). The controller can then set a speed threshold for the vehicle. For example, the speed threshold can be based on at least one of the value regarding the weight of the vehicle and the value indicating an operating parameter (e.g., the state of charge).

[0078] The system controller may also set power thresholds. During system operation, the controller may receive a current vehicle speed and a driver-demanded power (DDP) value. For example, the current vehicle speed may be determined (e.g., estimated or measured, etc.) by a speed sensor (e.g., an actual sensor or a virtual sensor) and received by the controller. The DDP may be determined based on at least one of a sensed driver-demanded torque (DDT), an accelerator pedal position (APP), and / or a brake pedal position (BPP). The controller may then compare the current speed to a set speed threshold and the DDP to a set power threshold.

[0079] In an example scenario, the current vehicle speed may be lower than a set speed threshold. If the current vehicle speed is less than or equal to the set speed threshold, the controller may cause the engine system to operate in an electric vehicle drive mode (i.e., the drive mode is an electric vehicle drive mode, whereby the power for the system is provided entirely by the motor (e.g., an electric motor or an electric generator)). For example, when the current vehicle speed is lower than the speed threshold, the controller may cause the engine system to operate in the electric vehicle mode, regardless of the received DDP. When the current speed is lower than or equal to the set speed threshold, the controller may enable the electric vehicle drive mode. For example, when the power demand (e.g., DDP) is relatively low (e.g., at or below a low speed threshold or within a low speed range), the controller may enable the electric vehicle mode. When the controller enables the electric vehicle mode, the controller activates the motor (e.g., an electric motor or an electric generator) to provide the required power and disables the engine (e.g., shuts down the engine, turns off the engine, idles the engine, etc.) so that the engine does not provide power.

[0080] In another example scenario, the current speed may be greater than a set speed threshold. For example, in this scenario, the received power demand (e.g., DDP) may determine which drive mode the controller causes the system to operate in. For example, the set power thresholds may include a first threshold (e.g., a lower threshold) and a second threshold (e.g., an upper threshold). If the controller determines that the current speed is greater than the speed threshold and the DDP is less than the lower power threshold, the controller may cause the engine system to operate in the engine recharge drive mode. When operating in the engine recharge drive mode, system power may be provided by the engine, while the electric motor (e.g., an electric motor or a motor generator) provides power to the battery to recharge the battery (e.g., the electric motor generator provides negative power to charge the battery). When the controller causes the system to operate in the engine recharge drive mode, the controller activates (e.g., enables, etc.) the electric motor to provide power (e.g., torque, etc.) and causes the electric motor to provide power to the battery. For example, when operating in the engine recharge drive mode, system power may be provided solely by the engine, while the electric motor provides power to the energy storage device (e.g., a battery, etc.).

[0081] In another example scenario, the current vehicle speed may be greater than a speed threshold, and the DDP may be greater than a lower power threshold but less than an upper power threshold. In this scenario, the controller may cause the system to operate in an engine-only mode. When the system operates in an engine-only mode, power to the system is provided solely by the engine. For example, the motor may be deactivated (e.g., turned off, etc.). As described above, when the controller enables the engine-only mode, system power is provided by the engine. During the engine-only mode, the motor is deactivated or otherwise disabled. For example, system energy is not provided by the motor, nor does the motor provide power to the energy storage device.

[0082] In yet another example scenario, the current vehicle speed may be greater than a speed threshold, and the DDP may be greater than an upper limit (e.g., greater than both a lower threshold and an upper threshold, etc.). In this scenario, the controller may then cause the system to operate in a power-split mode. When operating in the power-split mode, system power is provided by both the engine and the motor. When the controller causes the system to operate in the power-split drive mode, a first portion of the system's power is provided by the engine, while a second portion of the system's energy is provided by the motor. For example, the engine may provide 60% of the power requirement, while the motor provides 40% of the power requirement. In other embodiments, the engine may provide 30% of the power requirement, while the motor provides 70% of the power requirement. The engine and motor may each provide any combination of the first portion and the second portion to meet (e.g., satisfy, achieve, etc.) the required power.

[0083] In each example scenario, once a drive mode is selected, the controller may then send at least one command (e.g., signal, message, etc.) to activate or deactivate (e.g., enable, disable, etc.) (or, in some embodiments, at least partially activate or deactivate) at least one of the engine and / or the electric motor. In some embodiments, the controller may recheck or receive another value (e.g., updated value, predicted value, estimated value, etc.) indicating an update or change in one or more operating parameters. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may recheck the state of charge after a predetermined time has elapsed. In other embodiments, the controller may receive updated information regarding the system's temperature. In other embodiments, the controller may receive a state of charge error command. In response to the at least one command, the controller may recheck or receive an updated value regarding, for example, the state of charge of the battery. In response to receiving the updated values regarding one or more operating parameters, the controller may then adjust the lower and upper power thresholds. For example, the controller may decrease the lower power threshold and decrease the upper power threshold. In some embodiments, the controller may increase the lower power threshold and increase the upper power threshold. In another embodiment, the controller may decrease the lower power threshold and increase the upper power threshold, or increase the lower power threshold and decrease the upper power threshold.

[0084] According to any of the example scenarios described, the speed threshold can be any speed threshold relevant to the system. For example, in some embodiments, the speed threshold can be a vehicle speed threshold. In other embodiments, the speed threshold can be one of an engine speed threshold, a motor generator speed threshold, a transmission speed threshold, an axle speed threshold, or a wheel speed threshold. These and other features and benefits are described more fully below.

[0085] Now refer to Figure 1 , a schematic diagram of a block diagram of a system 100 (eg, an engine system, a hybrid powertrain system, etc.) according to an example embodiment is shown. The system 100 includes an engine 102 and at least one electric machine (eg, an electric motor, an electric generator, etc.) 104. For example, and with reference to Figure 1 As shown in the system, the system 100 may include an electric machine 104 (e.g., an electric motor, an electric generator, etc.) coupled to the engine 102 via a shaft (e.g., an output shaft, a drive shaft, a crankshaft, etc.). The electric machine 104 is electrically coupled to a battery 114 such that the electric machine 104 is operable to receive power from the battery 114 and / or provide power to the battery 114. In some embodiments, the system 100 may be configured as a mild hybrid powertrain, a strong hybrid powertrain, a parallel hybrid powertrain, or a series-parallel powertrain. The system 100 may also include an aftertreatment system 106 in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102. The system 100 includes a controller 108 (e.g., Figure 2) and operator input / output (I / O) devices 110, wherein the controller 108 is communicatively coupled to each of the aforementioned components. Other components and / or systems may also be included in the system 100.

[0086] The motor 104 is configured to output mechanical power using electrical power (e.g., from the battery 114 or another power source such as an AC generator). For example, the motor 104 can be coupled to a shaft (e.g., an output shaft, a drive shaft, a crankshaft, etc.) such that the shaft is operable to receive power output by the motor 104. In some embodiments, the motor 104 is coupled to the engine 102 (e.g., via a shaft). In some embodiments, the motor 104 is coupled to one or more wheels and / or axles of the vehicle system (e.g., via a shaft) such that the motor 104 is operable to provide power to the wheels and / or axles and / or receive power from the wheels and / or axles. For example, the motor 104 can provide power to the wheels to propel the system 100. In another example, the motor 104 can receive power from the wheels (e.g., during regenerative braking operation). The motor 104 can be an electric motor, an electric generator, or another electric motive device. In addition, a plurality of motors 104 can be included in the system 100.

[0087] In some embodiments, system 100 includes a turbine device 112 disposed between engine 102 and aftertreatment system 106, such that turbine device 112 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with engine 102 and in exhaust gas providing communication with aftertreatment system 106. In these embodiments, aftertreatment system 106 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with engine 102 (e.g., via turbine device 112). In other embodiments, system 100 does not include turbine device 112.

[0088] exist Figure 1 In a configuration, system 100 is included in a vehicle. The vehicle can be any type of on-road or off-road vehicle, including but not limited to wheel loaders, forklifts, long-haul trucks, medium-duty trucks (e.g., pickup trucks), sedans, coupes, and any other type of vehicle. In other embodiments, system 100 can be embodied in a stationary device, such as a power generator or generator set. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0089] exist Figure 1 In the configuration shown, the engine 102 is an internal combustion engine (ICE). The ICE may consume fuel, such as diesel, gasoline, hydrogen, natural gas, propane, etc., to generate power. The engine 102 is part of a hybrid system (e.g., a hybrid powertrain system, etc.) that has a combination of an internal combustion engine and at least one electric motor coupled to at least one battery. For example, and with reference to Figure 1 As shown, system 100 may include an electric motor 104 coupled to engine 102 via a shaft (e.g., output shaft, drive shaft, crankshaft, etc.). Electric motor 104 is electrically coupled to battery 114 such that electric motor 104 is operable to receive power from battery 114 and / or provide power to battery 114.

[0090] The engine 102 includes one or more cylinders 116 (e.g., combustion cylinders). The cylinders 116 are disposed within the combustion chambers of the engine 102. In some embodiments, the engine 102 may be configured as a spark-ignition (SI) engine. In the example shown, the engine 102 is configured as a compression-ignition (CI) engine, and the cylinders 116 do not include an igniter. In some embodiments, each cylinder 116 has a corresponding fuel injector. In these embodiments, the fuel injectors are configured to provide fuel to the corresponding cylinders 116. In other embodiments, the fuel injectors may be located upstream of the cylinders 116 (e.g., at or within the intake manifold, such as the intake manifold 113 described herein). In these embodiments, the fuel injectors are configured to provide fuel upstream of the cylinders 116 so that the cylinders 116 receive fuel from the fuel injectors.

[0091] refer to Figure 1 , the engine 102 includes six cylinders 116. However, it should be understood that the engine 102 may include more than Figure 1 More or fewer cylinders 116 (eg, at least one) are shown. Additionally, the cylinders 116 may be provided in different arrangements (eg, in-line, horizontal, V-shaped, or other suitable cylinder arrangements).

[0092] The system 100 includes an intake duct 111 and an intake manifold 113. The intake duct 111 is configured to route an intake flow comprising air (e.g., ambient air, compressed air, etc.) to the intake manifold 113. The intake manifold 113 is configured to direct the intake flow from the intake duct 111 into the engine 102. More specifically, the intake manifold 113 is configured to direct air from the intake duct 111 to each cylinder 116.

[0093] System 100 includes an exhaust manifold 120 and an exhaust conduit 122. Exhaust manifold 120 is configured to direct exhaust gas flow from the engine to exhaust conduit 122. More specifically, exhaust manifold 120 is configured to direct exhaust gas flow from each cylinder 116 to exhaust conduit 122. Exhaust conduit 122 is configured to direct exhaust gas flow from exhaust manifold 120 to downstream components, such as aftertreatment system 106 and / or turbine device 112. In some embodiments, a first portion of exhaust conduit 122 is disposed between exhaust manifold 120 and turbine device 112. The first portion of exhaust conduit 122 is configured to direct exhaust gas flow from exhaust manifold 120 to turbine device 112. In some embodiments, a second portion of exhaust conduit 122 is disposed between turbine device 112 and aftertreatment system 106. The second portion of exhaust conduit 122 is configured to direct exhaust gas flow from turbine device 112 to aftertreatment system 106.

[0094] An aftertreatment system 106 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102. The aftertreatment system 106 includes components for reducing exhaust emissions, such as a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst, a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF), an exhaust fluid dispenser (doser) having an exhaust fluid supply, a plurality of sensors for monitoring the aftertreatment system (e.g., a nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensor, a temperature sensor, etc.), and / or other components. For gasoline spark-ignition engines, the aftertreatment system may be omitted or its structure may differ from that described.

[0095] The turbine device 112 can be any type of turbomachine, such as a turbocharger, a variable geometry turbocharger, a power turbine, etc. The turbine device 112 can be operably coupled to the engine 102 and / or another component of the system 100 (e.g., a transmission system, a battery, an electric motor, or other suitable component). In some embodiments, the turbine device 112 is configured to compress an airflow (e.g., an intake airflow, an exhaust airflow, etc.) and provide the compressed airflow to the engine 102. For example, Figure 1 As shown, turbine apparatus 112 may be coupled to intake manifold 113 such that the turbine apparatus operates to provide compressed air flow to engine 102 (eg, via intake manifold 113 ).

[0096] As shown, a plurality of sensors 125 are included in the system 100. The number, location, and type of sensors included in the system 100 are shown for exemplary purposes only. That is, in other configurations, the number, location, and type of sensors may be different.

[0097] The sensor 125a may be a battery sensor (eg, an SOC sensor, etc.). Figure 1As shown, the SOC sensor 125a is coupled to the battery 114. In some embodiments, the SOC sensor may be a virtual sensor that is communicatively coupled to the battery 114 and the controller 108. It should be understood that the location of the sensor may vary and that the system 100 may include more than one SOC sensor. Figure 1 More or fewer sensors as shown.

[0098] System 100 may also include additional sensors. The sensors may include sensors associated with the engine (e.g., torque sensors, speed sensors, pressure sensors, flow rate sensors, temperature sensors, etc.). Sensors 125 may also include sensors associated with other components of system 100 (e.g., engine 102 and / or turbine 112). For example, the sensors may include a speed sensor for engine 102, a speed sensor for transmission 124, or a speed sensor for turbine 112. In some embodiments, system 100 may include fuel quantity and injection rate sensors, a fuel rail pressure sensor, etc.).

[0099] In addition, various sensors 125 can be coupled to each of the motor 104, the engine 102, or various other components of the system 100 (e.g., wheels, axles, etc.). For example, the sensor 125 can determine (e.g., measure, etc.) the engine speed or the motor generator speed. Additionally, the sensor 125 can determine the transmission speed, the axle speed, or the wheel speed.

[0100] The system 100 may also include sensors 125, which may be gas composition sensors (e.g., NOx sensors, oxygen sensors, H2O / humidity sensors, hydrogen sensors, etc.), temperature sensors, particulate matter (PM) sensors, flow rate sensors (e.g., mass flow rate sensors, volume flow rate sensors, etc.), other exhaust emission composition sensors, pressure sensors, some combination thereof, etc. The temperature sensors may include aftertreatment system component temperature sensors configured to collect data indicating the temperature of components of the aftertreatment system 106, such as catalyst components (e.g., SCR catalyst components, DOC catalyst components, etc.), particulate filters, or other components of the aftertreatment system 106. The data from the sensors may be used to determine an engine braking mode for engine braking operation.

[0101] The sensors 125 can be real or virtual (i.e., non-physical sensors configured as program logic in the controller 108 that makes various estimates or determinations). For example, an engine speed sensor can be a real or virtual sensor that is arranged to measure or otherwise collect data, values, or information indicative of the speed of the engine 102 (typically expressed in revolutions per minute). The sensor is coupled to the engine (when configured as a real sensor) and is configured to send a signal indicative of the speed of the engine 102 to the controller 108. When configured as a virtual sensor, the controller 108 can use at least one input in an algorithm, model, lookup table, etc. to determine or estimate a parameter of the engine (e.g., power output, etc.). Any of the sensors 125 described herein can be real or virtual.

[0102] The controller 108 is coupled to the sensors 125, and in particular is communicatively coupled to the sensors 125. Thus, the controller 108 is configured to receive data from one or more sensors 125 and provide instructions / information to one or more sensors 125. As described herein, the controller 108 may use the received data to control one or more components of the system 100.

[0103] Operator input / output (I / O) devices 110 may be coupled to the controller 108 so that information may be exchanged between the controller 108 and the I / O devices, wherein the information may relate to Figure 1 The operator I / O devices enable an operator of the system 100 to communicate with the controller 108 and Figure 1 The operator input / output device may communicate with one or more components of the system 100. For example, the operator input / output device may include, but is not limited to, an interactive display, a touch screen device, one or more buttons and switches, a voice command receiver, etc. In this manner, the operator input / output device may provide one or more indications or notifications to the operator, such as a malfunction indicator light (MIL), etc. In addition, the system 100 may include a port that enables the controller 108 to be connected or coupled to a scan tool so that fault codes and other information about the system 100 can be obtained.

[0104] The controller 108 is configured to at least partially control the operation of the system 100 and associated subsystems (e.g., the engine 102, the motor 104, and the operator I / O devices 110). Communication between and among components may be via any number of wired or wireless connections. For example, a wired connection may include a serial cable, a fiber optic cable, a CAT5 cable, or any other form of wired connection. In contrast, a wireless connection may include the Internet, Wi-Fi, cellular, radio, etc. In one embodiment, a controller area network (CAN) bus provides for the exchange of signals, information, and / or data. The CAN bus includes any number of wired and wireless connections. Because the controller 108 is communicatively coupled to Figure 1 systems and components, so the controller 108 is constructed from Figure 1 One or more components shown receive data. Figure 2 , further describing the structure and function of the controller 108.

[0105] because Figure 1 Components are shown as being embodied in system 100. Controller 108 may be configured as one or more electronic control units (ECUs), including, for example, one or more microcontrollers. Controller 108 may be separate from or included with at least one of a transmission control unit, an exhaust aftertreatment control unit, a powertrain control module, an engine control unit, an engine control module, and the like.

[0106] Now refer to Figure 2 , showing an example embodiment according to Figure 1 FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a controller 108 of the system 100. As shown, the controller 108 includes at least one processing circuit 202 having at least one processor 204 and at least one memory device 206. The controller 108 is configured to facilitate enabling drive mode operations, selecting, and implementing a particular drive mode operation based on current operating parameters of the system. In some embodiments, the drive mode operation includes selecting a drive mode of at least one of an electric vehicle drive mode, a recharging drive mode, an engine-only drive mode, or a power-split drive mode.

[0107] In the example shown, the controller 108 includes a processing circuit 202 having a processor 204 and a memory device 206. The processing circuit 202 may be constructed or configured to execute or implement instructions, commands, and / or control processes.

[0108] The processor 204 can be implemented as one or more single-chip or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or suitable processors (e.g., other programmable logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. for performing the functions described herein). The processor can be a microprocessor, a group of processors, etc. The processor can also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, one or more processors can be shared by multiple circuits. In some embodiments, one or more processors can be configured to perform or otherwise perform certain operations independently of one or more coprocessors. In other example embodiments, two or more processors can be coupled via a bus to implement independent, parallel, pipelined, or multi-threaded instruction execution. All of these variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0109] The memory device 206 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code, the computer code including instructions for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers, and modules described in this disclosure. For example, the memory device 206 may include dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The memory device 206 may be communicatively connected to the processor 204 to provide computer code or instructions to the processor 204 for performing at least some of the processes described herein. In addition, the memory device 206 may be or include tangible, non-transient volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Thus, the memory device 206 may include a database component, an object code component, a script component, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein.

[0110] The communication interface 216 may include any combination of wired and / or wireless interfaces (e.g., jacks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wired terminals) for communicating data with various systems, devices, or networks configured to enable in-vehicle communication (e.g., communication between components of a vehicle) and out-of-vehicle communication (e.g., communication with a remote server). For example, and with respect to out-of-vehicle / system communication, the communication interface 216 may include an Ethernet card and port for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communication network, and / or a Wi-Fi transceiver for communicating via a wireless communication network. The communication interface 216 may be configured to communicate via a local area network or a wide area network (e.g., the Internet) and may use various communication protocols (e.g., IP, LON, Bluetooth, ZigBee, radio, cellular, near-field communication).

[0111] like Figure 2 As shown, the communication interface 216 may enable communication with the engine 102, the electric machine 104, and / or one or more sensors 125. In some embodiments, the communication interface 216 may enable communication with the electric machine 104.

[0112] The controller 108 is configured to at least partially control the operation of the system 100 (e.g., a hybrid powertrain system). For example, the controller 108 is configured to enable operation of at least one of the engine 102 and the electric machine 104. The controller 108 may enable operation of at least one of the engine 102 and the electric machine 104 based on a predetermined speed threshold or power threshold, or a speed threshold or power threshold adjusted according to current operating parameters of the system 100.

[0113] The controller 108 is constructed or configured to estimate the weight of the system (e.g., vehicle weight, etc.). For example, the system 100 may include a plurality of sensors 125, including a weight sensor, communicatively coupled to the controller 108 to determine a value indicating an estimated weight (e.g., mass, load, etc.) of the vehicle system 100. The controller 108 may receive the estimated weight from the sensors 125 and store the estimated weight in the memory device 206. In some embodiments, the sensors may automatically (e.g., after a predetermined amount of time, etc.) measure the weight, mass, or load of the vehicle system 100 and provide an updated estimated weight value to the controller 108. In other embodiments, the sensors 125 may provide an updated estimated weight value to the controller 108 in response to determining (e.g., sensing, measuring, etc.) that the weight of the vehicle system 100 has changed. For example, if an object is removed from the vehicle system 100 (e.g., unloaded, etc.), the sensors 125 may determine the change in weight and provide an updated estimated weight to the controller 108. The controller 108 may then store the updated estimated weight value in the memory device 206 .

[0114] The controller 108 is configured to receive a value indicative of an operating parameter of the system 100. For example, the controller may receive a value indicative of the state of charge (SOC) of the battery 114. In other embodiments, the controller 108 may receive a temperature value indicative of the temperature of the engine or motor. In yet another embodiment, the controller 108 may receive a value indicative of the health of the battery 114.

[0115] In addition, the controller 108 may store values (e.g., SOC value, temperature, etc.) in the memory device 206. The controller 108 may set thresholds for operating conditions (e.g., state of charge (SOC), etc.) for the system 100. For example, the controller 108 may set a first SOC threshold or a temperature threshold. The first SOC threshold may be a low SOC limit. In response to receiving the SOC value, the controller 108 is configured to compare the received SOC value with the first SOC threshold. If the controller 108 determines that the SOC value is less than or equal to the SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to set the speed threshold to a predefined low value (e.g., zero) and cause at least one of the engine 102 and / or the motor 104 to provide power. For example, if the SOC value is less than the first SOC threshold, the system 100 may operate solely on electric power (e.g., electric vehicle mode, EV mode, etc.). In other embodiments, the controller may determine multiple SOC thresholds.

[0116] The controller 108 is also configured to receive a power demand (e.g., a DDP). The DDP can be determined by one of the plurality of sensors 125. For example, the DDP can be determined by a sensor 125 that determines the position of the accelerator or brake (e.g., APP or BPP). For example, based on the position of the accelerator, the controller 108 can determine that the vehicle system 100 may require more power to maintain the current speed or accelerate the vehicle, or less power when decelerating or braking.

[0117] If the value of one or more predefined operating parameters is greater than the operating parameter threshold, the controller 108 can set a speed threshold based on a value related to the vehicle weight. For example, if the SOC value is greater than a first SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to determine the speed threshold based on the vehicle weight. The controller 108 is also configured to determine a first power threshold (e.g., a lower power threshold) and a second power threshold (e.g., an upper power threshold). For example, the first power threshold and the second power threshold are set so that the SOC remains within a predetermined range during vehicle operation.

[0118] In an example scenario, if the controller 108 receives a value indicative of an operating parameter that is less than an operating parameter threshold, the controller 108 may set the system 100 to operate in a drive mode, in which the system's power is provided by the engine 102 or the engine 102 and the motor 104. For example, if the SOC value is less than the SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to enable at least one of the engine 102 and the motor 104 so that the vehicle system 100 may not rely solely on the motor 104 for power (e.g., torque, etc.). In this embodiment, the controller 108 sets the speed threshold to a predefined low value (e.g., zero). For example, in this scenario, the SOC value may indicate that the battery 114 does not have sufficient charge to power the vehicle system 100 without enabling the engine 102. In this scenario, the controller 108 is configured to set the drive mode based on the DDP.

[0119] When the value associated with the operating condition is less than a predefined operating condition threshold, such as when the SOC is below an SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to determine whether the DDP is less than a first power threshold (e.g., a lower power threshold). In response to determining that the DDP is less than or equal to the first power threshold, the controller 108 may enable the engine recharge drive mode. For example, the controller 108 may cause the system power to be provided by the engine 102 and also cause the motor 104 to provide power to the battery 114 to charge the battery (e.g., increase the SOC, etc.). When the engine recharge drive mode is enabled, only the engine 102 provides power (e.g., torque, etc.). The motor 104 is active (e.g., on, running, etc.), but is signaled to only provide power back to the battery 114 (e.g., negative power).

[0120] In response to determining that the DDP is greater than the first power threshold, the controller 108 is configured to determine whether the DDP is less than or equal to a second power threshold. For example, if the DDP is greater than the first power threshold but less than or equal to the second power threshold, the controller 108 may enable the engine-only mode. When the controller 108 enables the engine-only mode, the controller 108 sends at least one signal (e.g., a command, a message, etc.) to the engine 102 to cause (e.g., turn on, activate, etc.) the engine 102 to provide power. The controller 108 may also send a signal (e.g., a command, a message, etc.) to the motor 104 to deactivate (e.g., turn off, disable, etc.) the motor 104. The controller 108 is configured to cause only the engine 102 to provide power to the system 100 during the engine-only drive mode.

[0121] Furthermore, in response to determining that the DDP is greater than a second power threshold (e.g., greater than each of the first power threshold and the second power threshold), the controller 108 is configured to enable a power-split drive mode. When the power-split drive mode is enabled, the controller 108 is configured to send commands to each of the engine 102 and the motor 104 such that power for the system is provided by both the engine 102 and the motor 104.

[0122] Now refer to Figure 3A , shows a driving mode decision diagram according to an example embodiment. For example, Figure 3A The graph shown in FIG can represent the speed threshold and power limit threshold used by the controller 108 to select the driving mode. Figure 3AAs shown, graph 300 includes a speed threshold line 302. According to this embodiment, speed threshold line 302 is a vertical line located at a distance away from the y-axis (e.g., DDP axis). In other embodiments, speed threshold line 302 can be located at the top of the y-axis (e.g., speed threshold equals zero, X=0, etc.). Speed threshold line 302 is determined based on a function of the estimated vehicle weight and SOC level. For example, when the SOC is less than or equal to a first SOC threshold, speed threshold line 302 is equal to zero (e.g., X=0). When the SOC is greater than the first SOC threshold, speed threshold line 302 is determined based on the vehicle weight. For example, when the SOC is greater than the first SOC threshold, speed threshold line 302 is greater than zero (e.g., X=5, X=10, etc.).

[0123] Graph 300 also includes a first power threshold line 304 and a second power threshold line 306. In response to controller 108 determining that the vehicle speed is greater than speed threshold 302 and the DDP is below first power threshold line 304, controller 108 is configured to operate system 100 in engine recharge drive mode 308. In response to controller 108 determining that the vehicle speed is greater than speed threshold 302 and the DDP is above first power threshold line 304 but below second power threshold line 306, controller 108 is configured to operate system 100 in engine-only drive mode 310. In response to speed being greater than speed threshold 302 and the DDP being above second power threshold line 306, controller 108 is configured to operate system 100 in power-split drive mode 312. When in power-split drive mode, power for the system is provided by both engine 102 and motor 104.

[0124] Additionally, if the controller receives a DDP equal to or below zero, the controller 108 enables the regenerative drive mode. When the regenerative drive mode 314 is enabled, power is received by the system 100 and stored in the battery 114. For example, regenerative braking or coasting may be examples of the regenerative drive mode 314.

[0125] like Figure 3A As shown, if the value indicative of the operating condition is greater than the operating condition threshold (e.g., the SOC is greater than a first SOC threshold) and the vehicle speed is less than the speed threshold, the controller 108 is configured to operate the system 100 in the electric vehicle drive mode 316. In the electric vehicle drive mode, the controller 108 is configured to cause only the motor 104 to provide power to the system 100. For example, the power for the system is provided by the motor 104 while the engine 102 is turned off.

[0126] The first power threshold line 304 (eg, a first power threshold, a first power limit, etc.) and the second power threshold line 306 (eg, a second power threshold, a second power limit, etc.) may initially be configured as follows: Figure 3B The system efficiency map 318 of the system 100 shown is determined. The system efficiency map can be just the engine thermal efficiency map, or a combination of the engine thermal efficiency map and the motor efficiency map. For example, if the system efficiency map is Figure 3B Based on the engine thermal efficiency diagram shown, a brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) curve may be selected (e.g., selected, determined, identified, etc.). For example, BSFC may be equal to 190 BSFC. In other embodiments, other values of BSFC may be selected. Figure 3B As shown, when the speed is above the speed limit and the DDP is below the lower edge of the 190BSFC curve (e.g., the first power threshold line 304), the controller 108 is configured to operate the system 100 in the engine recharge drive mode 308. When the speed is above the limit and the DDP is below the upper edge of the 190BSFC curve (e.g., the second power threshold line 306) and above (e.g., greater than, etc.) the lower edge of the 190 curve (e.g., the first power threshold line 304), the controller is configured to operate the system 100 in the engine-only drive mode 310. When the speed is greater than the speed limit and the DDP is greater than the upper edge of the 190BSFC curve (e.g., the second power threshold line 306), the controller is configured to operate the system 100 in the power-split drive mode 312. The engine recharge drive mode 308 and the power-split drive mode 312 are different types of hybrid modes. When the DDP is above the second power threshold line 306 or below the first power threshold line 304 (e.g., the DDP is very high or very low), the efficiency of the engine will be relatively low. Therefore, by operating in a hybrid mode (e.g., engine recharge drive mode 308, power split drive mode 312, etc.), the engine can be maintained in a high efficiency region by also operating the electric motor or motor generator 104 (e.g., distributing power between the engine and the motor generator, etc.).

[0127] Based on the above, and now referring to Figure 4 , a flow chart illustrating a method 400 of enabling a drive mode according to an example embodiment. Specifically, the controller 108 is configured to enable a drive mode operation based on the current speed and power demand (DDP) of the system 100.

[0128] In process 402, the controller 108 determines or receives a value indicative of an operating condition, such as the state of charge (SOC) of the vehicle battery 114. As described above, the controller 108 may receive the SOC value from the sensor 125 or a virtual sensor. During process 402, the controller 108 may receive the SOC value from the sensor 125 and store the SOC value in the memory device 206.

[0129] In process 404, the controller 108 determines a value related to the vehicle weight (e.g., sensed weight, vehicle mass, vehicle load, etc.). As described above, the controller 108 may receive an estimated vehicle weight from one of the plurality of sensors 125 or virtual sensors. During process 404, the controller 108 may receive the vehicle weight from the sensor 125 and store the vehicle weight in the memory device 206. In this embodiment, the controller 108 may perform process 402 before performing process 404. In some embodiments, process 402 and process 404 may occur simultaneously. In other embodiments, process 404 may be performed before process 402.

[0130] At process 406, the controller sets a speed threshold (e.g., a speed threshold). During process 406, the controller is configured to compare the SOC to a first SOC threshold. In response to determining that the SOC level is less than the first SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to set the speed threshold to zero. In addition, in response to determining that the SOC level is greater than the first SOC threshold, the controller 108 is configured to set (e.g., calculate) the speed threshold based on a function of a value related to the vehicle weight.

[0131] At process 408, the controller 108 sets a power threshold (e.g., a power threshold, a first power threshold, a second power threshold, etc.). The controller 108 is configured to determine the first power threshold and the second power threshold based on a predetermined SOC range. For example, the controller 108 can be configured to set the first power threshold and the second power threshold so that the SOC remains within a desired range during vehicle operation.

[0132] At process 410, the controller 108 receives a current vehicle speed and a current demand for power (DDP). For example, the controller 108 may receive the current speed from a speed sensor 125 (e.g., a speedometer, etc.). The controller 108 may receive the DDP from a sensor 125 that senses at least one of a driver desired torque (DDT), an accelerator pedal position (APP), or a brake pedal position (BPP). The controller 108 may be configured to store the vehicle speed and the DDP in the memory device 206.

[0133] In process 412, the controller is configured to compare the current vehicle speed with a set speed threshold and compare the DDP with each of a set first (e.g., lower) power threshold and a set second (e.g., upper) power threshold. As described above, the controller 108 determines whether the speed is greater than the speed threshold and whether the DDP is less than the first power threshold, greater than the first power threshold and less than the second power threshold, or greater than the second power threshold.

[0134] At process 414, the controller selects a drive mode (e.g., electric vehicle drive mode, engine recharge drive mode, engine-only drive mode, power split drive mode, or regenerative drive mode). At process 416, the controller 108 enables the selected drive mode. For example, the controller 108 may send a command to enable at least one of the engine 102 and / or the motor 104. For example, the controller 108 allocates at least one of the engine 102 and / or the motor 104 to provide power to the system.

[0135] Now refer to Figure 5 , a flow chart of a method 500 for adjusting a power threshold included in the method 400 for enabling a driving mode according to an example embodiment is shown. Specifically, the controller 108 is configured to receive a value indicative of an operating parameter (e.g., an SOC command, an error command, an SOC error command, etc.) and adjust the power threshold based on the value.

[0136] As described above, method 500 includes method 400. After process 416, controller 108 is configured to receive a command (e.g., an SOC command, an error command, etc.) (process 502). In process 502, controller 108 is configured to adjust (e.g., change, recalculate, increase, decrease, etc.) the first power threshold and the second power threshold in response to the command. For example, controller 108 may adjust the first power threshold and the second power threshold to maintain the SOC level within a desired range.

[0137] Based on the above, and now referring to Figure 6 , shows a graph 600 for determining the speed threshold 302 according to an example embodiment. The horizontal axis of the graph represents vehicle speed, and the vertical axis represents fuel benefit compared to a conventional powertrain. Graph 600 includes lines 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, 612, 614, 616, and 618, each representing a vehicle system of varying weight. For example, the vehicle systems represented by 602-618 can be weighted so that 602 represents the lightest vehicle system and 618 represents the heaviest vehicle system. For each vehicle system 602-618, the speed threshold 302 is determined based on the peak fuel benefit. For example, the speed threshold 302 can decrease as the weight of the vehicle system increases. The peak fuel benefit for each vehicle system 602-618 can be determined through simulation. For example, the lines can be derived through simulation by setting different vehicle weights or load values.

[0138] According to this embodiment, the speed threshold is determined by the speed at which the vehicle systems 602-618 achieve peak fuel efficiency (or another predefined fuel economy or minimum fuel consumption value, such as a desired MPG value). According to this embodiment, if the vehicle weight is greater than the vehicle weight of line 610, the speed threshold is set to a first speed threshold 620 (e.g., 30 km / hr, etc.). If the vehicle weight is less than or equal to the vehicle weight of line 610, the speed threshold may be set to a second speed threshold 622 (e.g., 40 km / hr).

[0139] Advantageously, adjusting at least one of the first power threshold or the second power threshold can increase the fuel economy of the vehicle system 100. For example, if the SOC is continuously greater than the first SOC threshold, it may be advantageous for the controller 108 to adjust the first power threshold and the second power threshold so that the controller 108 can enable a drive mode that utilizes power from the motor 104. Similarly, if the controller 108 continuously receives erroneous commands, the controller 108 can advantageously adjust at least one of the first power threshold and / or the second power threshold so that the SOC remains within a desired predetermined range.

[0140] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially," and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the presently disclosed subject matter relates. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure should understand that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without limiting the scope of such features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

[0141] It should be noted that the term "exemplary" and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that these embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and these terms are not intended to imply that these embodiments are necessarily particular or superlative examples).

[0142] As used herein, the term "coupled" and its variations refer to the direct or indirect connection of two components to each other. Such connection can be static (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such connection can be achieved by directly coupling the two components to each other, by coupling the two components to each other using one or more separate intervening components, or by coupling the two components to each other using an intervening component that is integrally formed as a single, unitary body with one of the two components. If "coupled" or its variations are modified by additional terms (e.g., directly coupled), the general definition of "coupled" provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "directly coupled" means the connection of the two components without any separate intermediate components), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "coupled" provided above. Such coupling can be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic. For example, circuit A being communicatively "coupled" to circuit B can mean that circuit A communicates directly with circuit B (i.e., without an intermediary) or indirectly with circuit B (e.g., through one or more intermediaries).

[0143] References to element positions herein (e.g., "top," "bottom," "above," "below") are intended only to describe the orientation of the various elements in the drawings. It should be noted that the orientation of the various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0144] Although Figure 2 1 and 2. Various circuits with specific functionality are shown in FIG. 1, but it should be understood that the controller 108 may include any number of circuits for completing the functions described herein. In addition, the controller 108 may further control other activities beyond the scope of this disclosure.

[0145] As mentioned above, executable code can for example comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, and these physical or logical blocks can for example be organized as object, process or function.However, executable file does not need to be physically located together, but can comprise different instructions stored in different locations, and when logically connected together, these instructions constitute circuit and realize the described purpose of circuit.In fact, computer readable program code can be single instruction or multiple instructions, and can even be distributed on several different code segments, between different programs and across several memory devices.Similarly, operating data can be identified and shown in this article in circuit, and can be embodied in any suitable form and organized in the data structure of any suitable type.Operational data can be collected as single data set, or can be distributed in different locations, be included on different storage devices, and can, at least in part, exist only as the electronic signal on system or network.

[0146] Although the term "processor" is briefly defined above, the terms "processor" and "processing circuitry" should be interpreted broadly. In this regard, and as described above, a "processor" can be implemented as one or more processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other suitable electronic data processing components configured to execute instructions provided by a memory. One or more processors can take the form of a single-core processor, a multi-core processor (e.g., a dual-core processor, a triple-core processor, a quad-core processor, etc.), a microprocessor, etc. In some embodiments, one or more processors can be external to the device, for example, one or more processors can be remote processors (e.g., cloud-based processors). Alternatively or additionally, one or more processors can be internal to the device and / or local to the device. In this regard, a given circuit or component thereof can be arranged locally (e.g., as part of a local server, a local computing system, etc.) or remotely (e.g., as part of a remote server such as a cloud-based server). To this end, a "circuit" as described herein can include components distributed in one or more locations.

[0147] Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products that include a computer or machine-readable medium for carrying or having computer or machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available medium that a computer can access. Computer-readable media can be a tangible computer-readable storage medium that stores computer-readable program code. Computer-readable storage media can be, for example, but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, holographic, micromechanical or semiconductor systems, devices or equipment, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, portable computer floppy disks, hard disks, random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROM or flash memory), portable compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, holographic storage media, micromechanical storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, computer-readable storage media can be any tangible medium that can contain and / or store computer-readable program code for use by an instruction execution system, device or device and / or used in conjunction with the instruction execution system, device or device. Machine-executable instructions comprise, for example, instructions and data which cause a computer or processing machine to perform a certain function or group of functions.

[0148] Computer-readable media may also be computer-readable signal media. A computer-readable signal medium may include a propagation data signal containing a computer-readable program code therein (e.g., in baseband or as part of a carrier wave). Such a propagation signal may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electrical, electromagnetic, magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer-readable signal medium may be any computer-readable medium that is not a computer-readable storage medium but that can deliver, propagate, or transmit computer-readable program code for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus. The computer-readable program code embodied in a computer-readable signal medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired lines, fiber optic cables, radio frequency (RF), or the like, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0149] In one embodiment, the computer readable medium may include a combination of one or more computer readable storage media and one or more computer readable signal media. For example, the computer readable program code may be transmitted as an electromagnetic signal through an optical fiber cable for execution by a processor, or may be stored on a RAM storage device for execution by a processor.

[0150] Computer-readable program code for performing operations of aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more other programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages (e.g., Java, Smalltalk, C++, or the like) and conventional procedural programming languages (e.g., the "C" programming language or similar programming languages). The computer-readable program code may be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer as a stand-alone computer-readable package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or may be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0151] The program code may also be stored in a computer-readable medium, which may direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other device to function in a specific manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the schematic flowchart and / or schematic block diagram.

[0152] Although the drawings and description may show a specific order of method steps, the order of these steps may vary from that depicted and described, unless otherwise specified above. In addition, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially simultaneously, unless otherwise specified above. For example, such variations may depend on the software and hardware systems selected and the designer's choice. All such variations are within the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, software implementations of the described methods can be accomplished using standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

[0153] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the devices and systems shown in the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. In addition, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be combined or used with any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A system for a vehicle, the system comprising: a controller comprising at least one processing circuit including at least one memory coupled to at least one processor, the controller being configured to: receiving a value regarding a weight of the vehicle; receiving a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device coupled to the controller; setting a speed threshold for the vehicle based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device; setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device; receiving current speed and power requirements; and In response to determining that the current speed is greater than the speed threshold, a predefined driving mode of a plurality of driving modes is implemented for the vehicle based on the power demand.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further configured to define an energy threshold.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to a predetermined speed.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than or equal to the energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to zero and the predefined drive mode is set to one of a recharge mode, a motor drive mode, or a power split mode.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein: In response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than or equal to the energy threshold, the controller is further configured to: In response to the power demand being less than the first power threshold, setting the predefined driving mode to a recharging mode; In response to the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than the second power threshold, setting the predefined driving mode to an engine driving mode; and In response to the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, the predefined driving mode is set to a power split mode.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The second power threshold is greater than the first power threshold.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the current speed being not greater than the speed threshold, an electric drive mode is implemented.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller is further configured to: At least one of the first power threshold and the second power threshold is adjusted.

9. A means of transport comprising: an electric motor configured to provide at least a portion of the power requirements of the vehicle; a controller coupled to the electric motor, the controller configured to: setting a speed threshold based on a value relating to a weight of a vehicle and a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device of the vehicle; implementing a drive mode based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device and the speed threshold; and The electric motor is controlled based on the driving mode.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than an energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to zero.

11. The vehicle according to claim 10, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to a current speed being less than the speed threshold and the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than or equal to the energy threshold, an electric vehicle drive mode is implemented.

12. The vehicle according to claim 11, wherein: The controller is further configured to: A first power threshold and a second power threshold are set based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device.

13. The vehicle according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being less than the first power threshold, a motor recharge mode is implemented in which the electric motor provides power to the energy storage device.

14. The vehicle according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than or equal to the second power threshold, an engine-only propulsion mode is implemented.

15. The vehicle according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is further configured to: In response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold and the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, a power split mode is implemented in which the electric motor provides a portion of the power demand to the vehicle.

16. A method comprising: receiving a value related to a vehicle's weight; receiving a value indicative of an operating condition of an energy storage device; setting a speed threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device and a value relating to the vehicle weight; setting a first power threshold and a second power threshold based on a value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device; receiving current speed and power requirements; and In response to the current speed being greater than the speed threshold, a predefined driving mode among a plurality of driving modes is implemented based on the power demand.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: Set energy thresholds; and In response to the value of the operating condition of the energy storage device being less than or equal to the energy threshold, the speed threshold is set to zero and the predefined drive mode is set to one of a recharge mode, a motor mode, or a power split mode.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: implementing the predefined driving mode as a recharging mode in response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being less than the first power threshold; implementing the predefined driving mode as a motor mode in response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being greater than the first power threshold and less than the second power threshold; and In response to the value indicative of the operating condition of the energy storage device being greater than the energy threshold and the power demand being greater than the second power threshold, the predefined driving mode is implemented as a power split mode.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein Implementation of the recharge mode activates the electric motor to provide power to the energy storage device.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: At least one of the first power threshold and the second power threshold is adjusted.

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