Ammonia engine hybrid system, control method, and vehicle
By installing an electric heating module and utilizing multiple heat sources to heat ammonia in an ammonia engine hybrid power system, the problem of external energy consumption is solved, achieving efficient ammonia vaporization and improved energy utilization.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- DONGFENG COMML VEHICLE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-05-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-14
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, ammonia-fueled commercial vehicles require additional external energy consumption to vaporize liquid ammonia, resulting in energy loss.
Design an ammonia engine hybrid power system by setting an electric heating module in the first pipeline and using the power battery and motor to generate electricity to heat the ammonia, avoiding external energy consumption, and combining multiple heat sources such as electric drive coolant, engine coolant and engine exhaust heat to heat the ammonia.
It improves energy utilization, avoids external additional energy consumption, and achieves efficient ammonia gasification.
Smart Images
Figure CN122383554A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of commercial vehicle hybrid power system technology, specifically to an ammonia engine hybrid power system, control method, and vehicle. Background Technology
[0002] With the deepening implementation of global carbon neutrality, the energy transition in the transportation sector, especially the commercial vehicle industry, is imminent. Due to its zero-carbon emission potential and high energy density, ammonia fuel has gradually become a research hotspot for alternative fuels to internal combustion engines.
[0003] In related technologies, in the application of ammonia fuel in commercial vehicles, ammonia is usually stored in liquid form in on-board storage tanks. Before it can be supplied to the engine for combustion, it must undergo an ammonia vaporization process. This process requires an external heat source to heat the liquid ammonia, resulting in additional external energy consumption.
[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to design a new ammonia engine hybrid power system to overcome the above problems. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides an ammonia engine hybrid power system, control method, and vehicle, which can solve the technical problem in the related art that requires external additional energy consumption to vaporize ammonia.
[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an ammonia engine hybrid power system, comprising: an ammonia engine connected to a liquid ammonia tank via a first pipeline, the first pipeline being equipped with an electric heating module, the electric heating module being electrically connected to a power battery; a gearbox connected to the ammonia engine via a drive shaft, the drive shaft being equipped with a shifting unit; and a first motor connected to the shifting unit, the first motor being electrically connected to the power battery and the electric heating module.
[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one embodiment, the ammonia engine hybrid power system further includes a second motor connected to the gearbox, and the second motor is electrically connected to the power battery and the electric heating module.
[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one embodiment, the first pipeline is further provided with an electrically driven coolant heat exchange module, which is connected to the first motor through the coolant circuit of the electric drive system.
[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one embodiment, the electric heating module is connected in parallel with a second pipeline, the second pipeline being equipped with an engine coolant heat exchange module, the engine coolant heat exchange module being connected to the ammonia engine through an engine coolant circuit.
[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one embodiment, the electric heating module is further connected in parallel with a third pipeline, the third pipeline being equipped with an engine exhaust heat exchange module.
[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one embodiment, the first pipeline is further provided with a buffer tank, which is located between the ammonia engine and the electric heating module.
[0012] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a control method for the aforementioned ammonia engine hybrid power system, comprising: When starting the ammonia engine, if the ammonia pressure at the ammonia engine inlet does not meet the set requirements, the electric heating module is controlled to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirements.
[0013] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one embodiment, the control method further includes: When the ammonia engine is running, at least one of the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module, the engine coolant heat exchange module, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module is controlled to heat the ammonia. If the heat provided by the electric drive coolant heat exchange module, the engine coolant heat exchange module, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module is insufficient, the electric heating module will be controlled to heat the ammonia.
[0014] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one embodiment, when starting the ammonia engine, if the ammonia pressure at the ammonia engine inlet does not meet the set requirement, the electric heating module is controlled to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirement, including: When starting the ammonia engine, if the ammonia pressure at the ammonia engine inlet does not meet the set requirements, the electric drive coolant heat exchange module is controlled to heat the ammonia; if the heat provided by the electric drive coolant heat exchange module is insufficient, the engine coolant heat exchange module is controlled to heat the ammonia; if the heat provided by the engine coolant heat exchange module is insufficient, the electric heating module is controlled to heat the ammonia.
[0015] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle that includes the aforementioned ammonia engine hybrid power system.
[0016] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this application include: By installing an electric heating module in the first pipeline, which is connected to the power battery, the electrical energy stored in the power battery can power the electric heating module. The first motor can also directly power the electric heating module to heat ammonia. The ammonia-generating hybrid system directly utilizes the electrical energy stored in the power battery or the electrical energy generated by the motor to heat the vaporized ammonia, without consuming any external energy, thus improving energy utilization and solving the technical problem of requiring external energy to consume vaporized ammonia in related technologies. Attached Figure Description
[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0018] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the architecture of a first ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a second ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a third ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a fourth ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a fifth ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a sixth ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the architecture of the seventh ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in this application embodiment; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the eighth ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in the embodiments of this application.
[0019] In the picture: 1. Ammonia engine; 2. Liquid ammonia tank; 3. Electric heating module; 4. Power battery; 5. Gearbox; 6. Drive shaft; 61. First drive shaft; 62. Second drive shaft; 7. Gear shifting unit; 8. First motor; 9. Second motor; 10. Electric drive coolant heat exchange module; 11. Electric drive system coolant circuit; 12. Engine coolant heat exchange module; 13. Engine coolant circuit; 14. Engine exhaust heat exchange module; 15. Buffer tank; 16. Clutch; 17. Input shaft; 18. Coaxial gear; 19. Intermediate shaft; 20. Check valve; 21. Mixer; 22. Turbocharger turbine; 23. Turbocharger compressor; 24. Controller; 25. Electrically controlled valve; 26. First pressure sensor; 27. Second pressure sensor; 28. Booster pump. Detailed Implementation
[0020] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present application.
[0021] This application provides an ammonia engine hybrid power system that solves the technical problem in related technologies that requires external additional energy to consume gasified ammonia.
[0022] See Figure 1 As shown, an ammonia engine hybrid power system includes: an ammonia engine 1, which is connected to a liquid ammonia tank 2 via a first pipeline, the first pipeline being equipped with an electric heating module 3, the electric heating module 3 being electrically connected to a power battery 4; a gearbox 5, which is connected to the ammonia engine 1 via a drive shaft 6, and the drive shaft 6 is equipped with a shifting unit 7; and a first motor 8, which is connected to the shifting unit 7, and the first motor 8 is electrically connected to the power battery 4 and the electric heating module 3.
[0023] See Figure 1 As shown, the liquid ammonia tank 2 stores liquid ammonia, and the liquid ammonia tank 2 is equipped with a first pressure sensor 26, which is used to measure the internal pressure of the liquid ammonia tank 2. The electric heating module 3 can use the electrical energy stored in the power battery 4 or the electrical energy generated by the motor to heat and vaporize the liquid ammonia output from the liquid ammonia tank 2 to form ammonia gas, ensuring the supply of ammonia fuel.
[0024] See Figure 1 As shown, the ammonia engine 1 is connected to the drive shaft 6 via a clutch 16, and the first motor 8 is connected to the coaxial gear 18 via a parallel shaft gear reduction mechanism. The coaxial gear 18 is connected to the shifting unit 7. The shifting unit 7 can have three positions: left, middle, and right, or it can only have left and right positions (e.g., ...). Figures 5 to 8 (As shown). When the shift unit 7 has left, middle, and right positions, the drive shaft 6 is divided into a first drive shaft 61 and a second drive shaft 62. The first drive shaft 61 connects the clutch 16 to the shift unit 7, and the second drive shaft 62 connects the shift unit 7 to the input shaft of the gearbox 5. When the shift unit 7 is in the left position, the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the coaxial gear 18 and disconnected from the second drive shaft 62. When the shift unit 7 is in the middle position, the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the coaxial gear 18 and also connected to the second drive shaft 62. When the shift unit 7 is in the right position, the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62 and disconnected from the coaxial gear 18.
[0025] See Figure 5As shown, when the shift unit 7 has a left position and a right position, but no middle position, the output end of the ammonia engine 1 is connected to the drive shaft 6 via the clutch 16. The drive shaft 6 is connected to the gearbox 5 via the input shaft 17. The advantage of this shift unit 7 is that it can disengage the motor and the gearbox 5 from the powertrain. That is, in engine mode, the motor does not need to rotate, reducing unnecessary motor no-load losses. The operating modes of the above ammonia engine hybrid power system are as follows: Pure electric mode: The shift unit 7 is located on the left and connects the first motor 8 to the power chain. The output is finally sent to the wheel end through the input shaft 17 and the gearbox 5 to drive the vehicle.
[0026] Pure engine mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the right position, and drive shaft 6, input shaft 17, and gearbox 5 are connected. Ammonia engine 1 serves as the drive source for power output.
[0027] Hybrid mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the left position, and input shaft 17 is connected to drive shaft 6. Both the ammonia engine 1 and the first motor 8 can be used as drive sources to output power.
[0028] Parking power generation mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the left position, and gearbox 5 is in neutral. Ammonia engine 1 acts as a power source to drive first motor 8 to generate electricity, and the generated electrical power is stored in power battery 4.
[0029] Driving power generation mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the left position, and gearbox 5 is in non-neutral. Drive shaft 6, input shaft 17, and gearbox 5 are connected. The ammonia engine 1 serves as a power source to drive the vehicle and simultaneously drives the first motor 8 to generate electricity.
[0030] In this embodiment, an electric heating module 3 is installed in the first pipeline. The electric heating module 3 is connected to the power battery 4, and the first motor 8 is also electrically connected to the power battery 4. The electrical energy generated by the first motor 8 (e.g., power generation under braking energy recovery or power generation driven by the ammonia engine 1) can be stored in the power battery 4. The electrical energy stored in the power battery 4 can power the electric heating module 3, and the first motor 8 can also directly power the electric heating module 3 to heat the ammonia. The ammonia vaporization is heated directly using the electrical energy stored in the power battery 4 or the electrical energy generated by the motor in the ammonia engine hybrid system, without consuming external additional energy, thus improving energy utilization and solving the technical problem in related technologies that requires external additional energy to consume ammonia vaporization.
[0031] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the ammonia engine hybrid power system further includes a second motor 9, which is connected to the gearbox 5 and electrically connected to the power battery 4 and the electric heating module 3. See also Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, the second motor 9 is connected to the intermediate shaft 19 through a parallel shaft gear reduction mechanism, the intermediate shaft 19 is connected to the gearbox 5, and the second motor 9 is also electrically connected to the power battery 4 and the electric heating module 3. Both the first motor 8 and the second motor 9 can reverse charge the power battery 4.
[0032] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the operating mode of the ammonia engine hybrid power system is as follows: Pure Electric Mode 1: The ammonia engine 1 and the second electric motor 9 are not operating; the first electric motor 8 serves as the drive source for power output. In this mode: the clutch 16 is disengaged, and the shift unit 7 is in the neutral position. The first electric motor 8 outputs power to the second drive shaft 62, which, after passing through the gearbox 5, is finally output to the wheels, driving the vehicle.
[0033] Pure Electric Mode Two: The ammonia engine 1 and the first motor 8 are not operating; the second motor 9 serves as the drive source for power output. There are two control schemes in this mode: a) When the shift unit 7 is in the left position, the clutch 16 can be in any state.
[0034] b) When the shift unit 7 is in the right position, the clutch 16 is disengaged.
[0035] Pure Electric Mode 3: The ammonia engine 1 is not operating; both the first motor 8 and the second motor 9 can serve as drive sources for power output. In this mode: clutch 16 is disengaged, shift unit 7 is in the neutral position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. In this mode, the first motor 8 and the second motor 9 drive in parallel, suitable for scenarios with high power requirements.
[0036] Pure engine mode: The ammonia engine 1 acts as the power source. In this mode: clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the right position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. This mode is suitable for scenarios where the engine can operate at high efficiency.
[0037] Parallel Hybrid Mode 1: Both the ammonia engine 1 and the first motor 8 can serve as drive sources for power output. In this mode, the power consumption of the first motor 8 is provided by the power battery 4. In this mode: the clutch 16 is engaged, the shift unit 7 is in the neutral position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. This mode is suitable for scenarios where the power battery 4 has sufficient charge and the power demand is high.
[0038] Parallel Hybrid Mode 2: Both the ammonia engine 1 and the second motor 9 can serve as drive sources for power output. In this mode, the power consumption of the second motor 9 is provided by the power battery 4. In this mode: the clutch 16 is engaged, the shift unit 7 is in the right position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. This mode is suitable for scenarios where the power battery 4 has sufficient charge and the power demand is high.
[0039] Parallel Hybrid Mode 3: The ammonia engine 1, the first motor 8, and the second motor 9 can all serve as drive sources for power output. In this mode, the power required by the first motor 8 and the second motor 9 is provided by the power battery 4. In this mode: the clutch 16 is engaged, the shift unit 7 is in the neutral position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. In this mode, the ammonia engine 1, the first motor 8, and the second motor 9 drive in parallel, suitable for scenarios with extremely high power demands.
[0040] Series Hybrid Mode: The ammonia engine 1 is used to generate electricity and does not directly serve as a drive source. In this mode: clutch 16 is engaged, and shift unit 7 is in the left position. At this time, the ammonia engine 1 outputs power to the first motor 8, which acts as a generator. The second motor 9 outputs power to the intermediate shaft 19, which is then transmitted through the gearbox 5 and finally output to the wheels to drive the vehicle. The electrical power generated by the first motor 8 is preferentially used by the second motor 9. When the generated power exceeds the consumed power, the excess is stored in the power battery 4; when the generated power is lower than the consumed power, the shortfall is supplemented by the power battery 4. In this mode, the ammonia engine 1 drives the first motor 8 to generate electricity, and the second motor 9 drives the vehicle. This mode is suitable for scenarios where vehicle operating conditions are unstable and the engine is not suitable for high-efficiency operation.
[0041] Series-parallel hybrid mode: Part of the power from the ammonia engine 1 is used to generate electricity, and the remaining power is directly output as a driving force. In this mode: clutch 16 is engaged, shift unit 7 is in the neutral position, and the first drive shaft 61 is connected to the second drive shaft 62. At this time, part of the power output from the ammonia engine 1 is sent to the first motor 8, which acts as a generator. The remaining power from the ammonia engine 1 and the second motor 9 can both be used as driving sources for power output. The electrical power generated by the first motor 8 is preferentially used as the electrical power for the second motor 9. When the power generated is higher than the power consumed, the excess is stored in the power battery 4; when the power generated is lower than the power consumed, the shortfall is supplemented by the power battery 4. In this mode, part of the power from the ammonia engine 1 drives the first motor 8 to generate electricity, and the remaining power from the ammonia engine 1 is used in parallel with the second motor 9 to drive the vehicle. This mode is suitable for scenarios where the battery power is insufficient and the power demand is high.
[0042] Parking power generation mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, and shift unit 7 is in the left position. Ammonia engine 1 acts as the drive source to drive first motor 8 to generate electricity, and the generated electrical power is stored in power battery 4.
[0043] Starting mode: Clutch 16 is engaged, and shift unit 7 is in the left position. The first motor 8 is powered by the power battery 4, which drives the engine to rotate to the rated speed. Then, the ammonia engine 1 ignites and runs stably.
[0044] In the above embodiments, the drive refers to providing positive torque or providing negative torque.
[0045] The ammonia engine hybrid system of this embodiment can achieve series hybrid, parallel hybrid, or series-parallel hybrid operation, improving the adaptability of the hybrid system under various operating conditions. In parking generator mode, series hybrid mode, or series-parallel hybrid mode, the ammonia engine 1 drives the first motor 8 to generate electricity. The generated electricity can supply power to the electric heating module 3 in the ammonia fuel supply system, power the second motor 9 to drive the vehicle, or charge the power battery 4. The ammonia engine 1 operates at a dedicated operating point, achieving efficient combustion and reducing control complexity.
[0046] See Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the second motor 9 is identical to the first motor 8, both connected to the shift unit 7 via a coaxial gear 18. The shift unit 7 connected to the first motor 8 and the second motor 9 also has the same structure and operates identically in all working modes. When the vehicle is in low-speed, low-load condition, it operates in pure electric mode, avoiding instability in the ammonia engine 1 under these conditions, which could lead to unstable vehicle operation and low system efficiency. Simultaneously, the electricity generated through energy recovery and active power generation in the ammonia engine hybrid system provides the energy source for the electric heating scheme of liquid ammonia vaporization.
[0047] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the first pipeline is also equipped with an electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, which is connected to the first motor 8 via the electric drive system coolant circuit 11. See also Figure 1 As shown, the electric drive coolant heat exchange module 10 is located between the liquid ammonia tank 2 and the electric heating module 3, and the electric drive coolant heat exchange module 10 is connected to the coolant circuit 11 of the electric drive system of the first motor 8 and the second motor 9, so that the heat of the electric drive coolant can be used to heat the ammonia fuel output from the liquid ammonia tank 2.
[0048] Further, see Figure 1 As shown, in one embodiment, the electric heating module 3 is connected in parallel with a second pipeline. The second pipeline is equipped with an engine coolant heat exchange module 12, which is connected to the ammonia engine 1 via an engine coolant circuit 13. In this embodiment, one end of the second pipeline is connected between the electric heating module 3 and the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, and the other end is connected between the electric heating module 3 and the ammonia engine 1, so that the second pipeline is connected in parallel with the electric heating module 3, and the engine coolant heat exchange module 12 is provided on the second pipeline. The engine coolant heat exchange module 12 is connected to the engine coolant circuit 13, which can use the heat of the engine coolant to heat the ammonia fuel output from the liquid ammonia tank 2.
[0049] Furthermore, in some optional embodiments, the electric heating module 3 is also connected in parallel to a third pipeline, which is equipped with an engine exhaust heat exchange module 14. See also Figure 1 As shown, one end of the third pipeline is connected between the electric heating module 3 and the electric drive coolant heat exchange module 10, and the other end is connected between the electric heating module 3 and the ammonia engine 1, so that the third pipeline is connected in parallel with the electric heating module 3. An engine exhaust heat exchange module 14 is installed on the third pipeline, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module 14 is connected to the engine exhaust pipe, which can use the heat from the engine exhaust to heat the ammonia fuel output from the liquid ammonia tank 2. See also... Figure 1 As shown, the engine exhaust pipe is also connected to a turbocharger turbine 22 and a turbocharger compressor 23.
[0050] Preferred, see Figure 1 As shown, the first pipeline is also equipped with a buffer tank 15, which is located between the ammonia engine 1 and the electric heating module 3. (See also...) Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the second and third pipelines are both connected between the buffer tank 15 and the electric heating module 3. The buffer tank 15 is also equipped with a second pressure sensor 27. The buffer tank 15 is used to provide pressurized ammonia to the ammonia engine 1, and the second pressure sensor 27 is used to measure the internal pressure of the buffer tank 15. The buffer tank 15 is also connected to the top of the liquid ammonia tank 2 through a fourth pipeline. The first, second, third, and fourth pipelines, as well as the engine coolant circuit 13, are all equipped with electronically controlled valves 25. Two electronically controlled valves 25 are installed on the first pipeline. One electronically controlled valve 25 is located between the liquid ammonia tank 2 and the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10 (denoted as the first electronically controlled valve 25), and the other electronically controlled valve 25 is located between the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10 and the electric heating module 3 (denoted as the fifth electronically controlled valve 25). The electronically controlled valve 25 located on the second pipeline is designated as the second electronically controlled valve 25, the electronically controlled valve 25 located on the third pipeline is designated as the third electronically controlled valve 25, the electronically controlled valve 25 located on the fourth pipeline is designated as the fourth electronically controlled valve 25, and the electronically controlled valve 25 located on the engine coolant circuit 13 is designated as the sixth electronically controlled valve 25.
[0051] See Figure 1 As shown, the first pipeline is located between the electronically controlled valve 25 and the liquid ammonia tank 2, and is also connected to a one-way valve 20. The one-way valve 20 is connected in parallel to a booster pump 28, which is used to supply ammonia fuel to the buffer tank 15. An ammonia mixer 21 is also installed on the first pipeline, which is located between the buffer tank 15 and the ammonia engine 1.
[0052] See Figure 1As shown, the ammonia engine hybrid power system also includes a controller 24. The controller 24 is connected to the first pressure sensor 26, the second pressure sensor 27, the electronically controlled valve 25, and the booster pump 28. The controller 24 can receive the measurement signals from the first pressure sensor 26 and the second pressure sensor 27, and output control signals to the actuators such as the electronically controlled valve 25 and the booster pump 28. The electronically controlled valve 25 receives the control signals from the controller 24. When the electronically controlled valve 25 is in the closed state, it disconnects the pipeline flow; when it is in the open state, it maintains the pipeline flow; or when it is in a partially open state, it can adjust the pipeline flow. In this embodiment, the controller 24 is also connected to the clutch 16, the shift unit 7, the first motor 8, the second motor 9, and the electric heating module 3. The controller 24 can control the engagement and disengagement of the clutch 16, control the working position of the shift unit 7 (left, middle, or right position), and control the charging and discharging of the first motor 8 and the second motor 9, as well as the power supply to the electric heating module 3.
[0053] Because ammonia engine 1 suffers from instability under low-speed and low-load conditions, and ammonia vaporization requires significant energy, the vehicle operates in pure electric mode when the vehicle's operating conditions are unsuitable for ammonia engine 1 and the power battery 4 has sufficient charge. The driving energy is provided by the power battery 4. The ammonia engine hybrid system provided in this embodiment can operate in pure electric mode under conditions unsuitable for ammonia engine 1, avoiding the instability issues of ammonia engine 1 under low-speed and low-load conditions and ensuring that ammonia engine 1 operates within its high-efficiency range.
[0054] When the vehicle's operating conditions are not suitable for the ammonia engine 1 and the power battery 4 has a low charge, the vehicle operates in series hybrid mode. The ammonia engine 1 can operate in a highly efficient and stable condition, driving the first motor 8 to generate electricity. The generated electricity is supplied to the second motor 9 to drive the vehicle, and the excess electricity is stored in the battery.
[0055] When the vehicle's operating conditions are suitable for the ammonia engine 1 to operate, but the exhaust temperature of the ammonia engine 1 is low, the power battery 4 supplies power to the liquid ammonia heating module to ensure the vaporization of ammonia. When the exhaust temperature of the ammonia engine 1 is high enough, exhaust energy is used to ensure the vaporization of ammonia, thereby saving energy consumption.
[0056] When the vehicle is in the regenerative braking mode, the vehicle drives the second motor 9 alone, or drives the first motor 8 alone, or drives the second motor 9 and the first motor 8 together to generate electricity, which is stored in the power battery 4.
[0057] In some embodiments, the ammonia engine hybrid power system may include an electric heating module 3, an engine exhaust heat exchange module 14, and related electronically controlled valves 25 (e.g., Figure 4(As shown); the ammonia engine hybrid power system can be equipped with an electric heating module 3, an engine coolant heat exchange module 12, and related electronically controlled valves 25 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown); the ammonia engine hybrid power system can be equipped with an electric heating module 3, an engine coolant heat exchange module 12, an electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, and related electronically controlled valves 25 (e.g., Figure 2 (As shown); the ammonia engine hybrid power system can also simultaneously be equipped with an electric heating module 3, an engine coolant heat exchange module 12, an electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, an engine exhaust heat exchange module 14, and related electronic control valves 25 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown).
[0058] The electric heating module 3 in the ammonia engine hybrid power system of this application can use the power battery 4 or the motor to heat the ammonia, ensuring the supply of ammonia fuel; when the temperature of the electric drive coolant is high, the heat of the electric drive coolant can be used to heat the ammonia, or when the temperature of the engine coolant is high, the heat of the engine coolant can be used to heat the ammonia, and when the engine exhaust temperature is high, the heat of the engine exhaust can be used to heat the ammonia, so as to save energy consumption.
[0059] Meanwhile, the ammonia engine hybrid system uses two sets of electric motors and a shift unit 7, enabling the powertrain to operate in engine mode, pure electric mode, series hybrid mode, parallel hybrid mode, and series-parallel hybrid mode. This allows the ammonia engine 1 to operate stably and efficiently under various application scenarios of the vehicle. The two sets of electric motors (i.e., the first motor 8 and the second motor 9) can enter drive / braking mode individually, simultaneously, or in a mode where the first motor 8 generates electricity and the second motor 9 drives, thus expanding the vehicle's pure electric drive / braking capability. Furthermore, by disengaging the clutch 16 or using the shift unit 7, the engine can be disengaged from the transmission chain to achieve pure electric drive, avoiding engine drag and resulting system efficiency reduction. The motor disengagement mechanism (shift unit 7) can completely disengage the motor and gear reduction mechanism from the transmission chain, achieving engine-only drive and avoiding system efficiency reduction caused by the rotational losses of the motor and gear reduction mechanism.
[0060] This application embodiment also provides a control method for the above-mentioned ammonia engine hybrid power system, which may include: when starting the ammonia engine 1, if the ammonia pressure at the inlet of the ammonia engine 1 does not meet the set requirements, controlling the electric heating module 3 to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirements.
[0061] The ammonia engine hybrid power system in this embodiment can be any of the ammonia engine hybrid power systems provided in the above embodiments and achieve the corresponding functions, which will not be described in detail here.
[0062] Referring to Table 1, in one embodiment, the above control method may further include: when the ammonia engine 1 is stopped, controlling the electrically controlled valve 25 between the liquid ammonia tank 2 and the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, as well as the electrically controlled valve 25 on the fourth pipeline, to be in a closed state, and not supplying ammonia fuel.
[0063] Further, in one embodiment, the step of controlling the electric heating module 3 to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirements when starting the ammonia engine 1 may include: controlling the electric drive coolant heat exchange module 10 to heat the ammonia when starting the ammonia engine 1 if the ammonia pressure at the inlet of the ammonia engine 1 does not meet the set requirements; controlling the engine coolant heat exchange module 12 to heat the ammonia if the heat provided by the electric drive coolant heat exchange module 10 is insufficient; and controlling the electric heating module 3 to heat the ammonia if the heat provided by the engine coolant heat exchange module 12 is insufficient.
[0064] In this embodiment, when the ammonia engine 1 starts, the electrically controlled valve 25 between the liquid ammonia tank 2 and the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10 is opened, and the electrically controlled valve 25 on the fourth pipeline is closed. If the pressure of the buffer tank 15 meets the requirements, the engine can be started; if the pressure of the buffer tank 15 does not meet the requirements, the heat required to heat the ammonia can be provided according to the following steps: (1) Liquid ammonia is heated by the heat of the electric-driven coolant heat exchange module 10. If the heat is sufficient, the ammonia engine 1 can be started; otherwise, proceed to the next step.
[0065] (2) Liquid ammonia is heated by the heat of the engine coolant through the engine coolant heat exchange module 12. If the heat is sufficient, the ammonia engine 1 can be started; otherwise, proceed to the next step.
[0066] (3) Liquid ammonia is heated by electric heating module 3. After the pressure of buffer tank 15 meets the requirements, ammonia engine 1 can be started.
[0067] If the electric coolant heat exchange module 10 and the engine coolant heat exchange module 12 can provide sufficient heat, then the electric heating module 3 is not needed, thus saving energy consumption.
[0068] Of course, in other embodiments, the electric heating module 3 can also be activated directly to heat the ammonia.
[0069] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the control method further includes: when the ammonia engine 1 is running, controlling at least one of the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, the engine coolant heat exchange module 12, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module 14 to heat the ammonia; if the heat provided by the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, the engine coolant heat exchange module 12, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module 14 is insufficient, then controlling the electric heating module 3 to heat the ammonia. In this embodiment, when the ammonia engine 1 is running, the heat provided by the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module 10, the engine coolant heat exchange module 12, and the engine exhaust heat exchange module 14 is used to heat the ammonia to ensure the vaporization of the ammonia and save energy consumption; when the heat provided by the above heat exchange modules is insufficient, the electric heating module 3 uses the electrical energy stored in the battery or the electrical energy generated by the ammonia engine 1's drive motor to heat the ammonia to ensure the vaporization of the ammonia.
[0070] The ammonia engine hybrid power system of this application can heat ammonia by using electric drive coolant, engine coolant, engine exhaust, or electric heating module 3. By managing different ammonia heating methods, the system economy can be optimized, ensuring ammonia heating needs while saving energy consumption.
[0071] Table 1
[0072] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the control method further includes: when the ammonia engine 1 is running, if the pressure of the buffer tank 15 meets the requirements and is higher than the pressure of the liquid ammonia tank 2, the opening and closing state of the electronically controlled valve 25 on the fourth pipeline can be controlled in a closed loop according to the measurement value of the first pressure sensor 26 to ensure that the pressure of the liquid ammonia tank 2 meets the requirements.
[0073] In related technologies, ammonia engine 1 uses ammonia generated by wind and solar energy, which solves both the problem of new energy storage and the problem of carbon emissions from the engine. However, ammonia is not easily ignited and its combustion speed is much slower than that of gasoline / diesel, resulting in sluggish engine response and unstable operation in low-load and low-speed ranges. Commercial vehicles operate in complex environments with frequent changes in operating conditions, and direct matching of the two results in problems such as unstable engine operation in low-speed and low-load ranges, slow engine start-up, and untimely acceleration response. This application addresses these issues by using a hybrid system and powertrain matched to the characteristics of ammonia engine 1 to meet the stable and efficient operation of the entire vehicle and ammonia engine 1, as well as the power requirements of the entire vehicle. Before entering the engine for combustion, ammonia needs to undergo an ammonia vaporization process, which requires an external heat source to control the reaction process and rate. This application integrates a hybrid system, an electric system, and an ammonia vaporization heating module of ammonia engine 1 to provide the energy source for heating the vaporization of ammonia engine 1. Simultaneously, the ammonia vaporization heat absorption is coupled with the motor cooling system, engine cooling system, and engine exhaust heat exchange system. Liquid ammonia vaporization absorbs heat from these systems, achieving internal heat exchange and improving energy utilization. The range of options available for single series or parallel hybrid systems is limited and cannot meet the stable and efficient operation of the ammonia engine in commercial vehicles under various application scenarios. This application provides greater flexibility by offering multiple hybrid mode options, balancing stable engine operation with the diverse needs of the vehicle.
[0074] This application also provides a vehicle that includes the aforementioned ammonia engine hybrid power system. The vehicle in this embodiment can employ the ammonia engine hybrid power system provided in any of the above embodiments and achieve the corresponding functions, which will not be elaborated further here.
[0075] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two elements. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.
[0076] It should be noted that in this application, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used merely to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.
[0077] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.
Claims
1. An ammonia engine hybrid power system, characterized in that, It includes: Ammonia engine (1), the ammonia engine (1) is connected to liquid ammonia tank (2) through a first pipeline, the first pipeline is equipped with an electric heating module (3), the electric heating module (3) is electrically connected to a power battery (4); The gearbox (5) is connected to the ammonia engine (1) via a drive shaft (6), and the drive shaft (6) is provided with a shift unit (7). The first motor (8) is connected to the shifting unit (7), and the first motor (8) is electrically connected to the power battery (4) and the electric heating module (3).
2. The ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ammonia engine hybrid power system also includes a second motor (9), which is connected to the gearbox (5) and electrically connected to the power battery (4) and the electric heating module (3).
3. The ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first pipeline is also equipped with an electric drive coolant heat exchange module (10), which is connected to the first motor (8) through the electric drive system coolant circuit (11).
4. The ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electric heating module (3) is connected in parallel with a second pipeline, and the second pipeline is equipped with an engine coolant heat exchange module (12). The engine coolant heat exchange module (12) is connected to the ammonia engine (1) through an engine coolant circuit (13).
5. The ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electric heating module (3) is also connected in parallel to a third pipeline, which is equipped with an engine exhaust heat exchange module (14).
6. The ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first pipeline is also provided with a buffer tank (15), which is located between the ammonia engine (1) and the electric heating module (3).
7. A control method for an ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It includes: When starting the ammonia engine (1), if the ammonia pressure at the inlet of the ammonia engine (1) does not meet the set requirements, the electric heating module (3) is controlled to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirements.
8. The control method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The control method further includes: When the ammonia engine (1) is running, at least one of the electrically driven coolant heat exchange module (10), the engine coolant heat exchange module (12) and the engine exhaust heat exchange module (14) is controlled to heat the ammonia; If the heat provided by the electric drive coolant heat exchange module (10), the engine coolant heat exchange module (12) and the engine exhaust heat exchange module (14) is insufficient, the electric heating module (3) is controlled to heat the ammonia.
9. The control method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, When starting the ammonia engine (1), if the ammonia pressure at the inlet of the ammonia engine (1) does not meet the set requirements, the electric heating module (3) is controlled to heat the ammonia in the first pipeline until the pressure meets the set requirements, including: When starting the ammonia engine (1), if the ammonia pressure at the inlet of the ammonia engine (1) does not meet the set requirements, the electric drive coolant heat exchange module (10) is controlled to heat the ammonia; if the heat provided by the electric drive coolant heat exchange module (10) is insufficient, the engine coolant heat exchange module (12) is controlled to heat the ammonia; if the heat provided by the engine coolant heat exchange module (12) is insufficient, the electric heating module (3) is controlled to heat the ammonia.
10. A vehicle, characterized in that, It includes the ammonia engine hybrid power system as described in claim 1.