Natural gas range extender assembly and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a natural gas range extender assembly and a vehicle, and belongs to the technical field of automobiles. The range extender assembly comprises a CNG engine and a disc type generator which are connected through a torsion damper, a complex gear mechanism in a traditional system is avoided, and therefore cost and mechanical efficiency loss are reduced. The CNG engine is provided with a single variable valve timing system and a high compression ratio technology, and the combustion process is optimized. The exhaust system comprises a two-stage three-way catalytic converter, meets the national sixth emission standard and is matched with the ECU through an air inlet temperature sensor, an air outlet temperature sensor, a pressure sensor and the like, the combustion process is accurately adjusted, and the catalytic converter is protected. And the injection system adopts an MPI structure, so that the injection efficiency is improved. The disc type generator adopts a low-speed design and is well matched with a high-efficiency area of the engine, and the motor is small in thickness and suitable for whole vehicle arrangement. By means of the design, the overall efficiency of the range extender is improved, the operation cost is reduced, and the environmental protection performance is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of automobiles, and more specifically, to a natural gas range extender assembly and a vehicle. Background Art

[0002] In the current commercial vehicle market, range extender technology is widely used to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. However, most of the range extenders on the market still mainly use gasoline engines and diesel engines. These traditional engines often have high fuel costs, resulting in a significant increase in the overall vehicle use cost. The price fluctuations and high consumption of gasoline and diesel make the overall operating cost remain high, bringing a greater economic burden to vehicle users. In addition, these traditional fuel engines may produce higher emissions during the combustion process, having a certain impact on the environment.

[0003] At the same time, traditional range extender systems are usually equipped with high-speed motor generator sets. Although this design can provide the required power output, due to the need for an additional gear mechanism between the engine and the generator to achieve power transmission, the cost of the system increases. In addition, the introduction of this gear mechanism inevitably causes a loss of mechanical efficiency, thus affecting the overall performance of the range extender. Due to the high speed and complex gear structure of these high-speed motors, the maintenance and operation costs of the range extender are further increased.

[0004] To address these problems, it is urgent to design a natural gas range extender assembly that can avoid the traditional gear mechanism between the engine and the generator to reduce the overall cost and complexity. Summary of the Utility Model

[0005] The utility model provides a natural gas range extender assembly and a vehicle to solve the above technical problems.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, the technical solution of the utility model is as follows:

[0007] A natural gas range extender assembly, the natural gas range extender assembly includes a CNG engine and a disc generator, and the CNG engine and the disc generator are connected by a torsional damper;

[0008] The CNG engine is provided with a crankshaft for outputting power, the disc generator is provided with a rotor for receiving power, and the torsional damper is arranged between the crankshaft of the CNG engine and the rotor of the disc generator;

[0009] The exhaust pipe of the CNG engine is connected to a post-treatment system, and the post-treatment system is a two-stage three-way catalytic converter for treating the discharged exhaust gas;

[0010] The intake manifold connection injection system of the CNG engine, the injection system includes an air rail and a jet valve assembly installed on the air rail, the jet valve assembly includes a plurality of jet valves, and the jet valves are used to inject natural gas into the intake manifold of the CNG engine.

[0011] Further, the torsional damper includes a pair of coupling members, and the pair of coupling members are respectively detachably connected to the crankshaft of the CNG engine and the rotor of the disc generator.

[0012] Further, the CNG engine is set with a single variable valve timing system, canceling the exhaust variable valve timing mechanism and only retaining the intake variable valve timing mechanism;

[0013] The intake variable valve timing mechanism is installed on the intake valve system of the CNG engine and is used to adjust the opening and closing timing of the intake valves.

[0014] Further, the end of the two-stage three-way catalytic converter is connected to an exhaust tailpipe for discharging exhaust gas outside the vehicle.

[0015] Further, the disc generator adopts a low-speed disc motor.

[0016] Further, several cylinders are provided in the cylinder block of the CNG engine, an ignition spark plug is installed on each cylinder, and an ignition coil is installed on the ignition spark plug of each cylinder.

[0017] Further, an intake air temperature sensor is installed in the intake manifold; the intake air temperature sensor is used to measure the temperature of the gas entering the CNG engine, the intake air temperature sensor is signal-connected to an ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the variable valve timing mechanism to adjust the valve timing based on the first temperature data provided by the intake air temperature sensor.

[0018] Further, an intake air pressure sensor is also installed in the intake manifold; the intake air pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure in the intake manifold, the intake air pressure sensor is signal-connected to the ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the injection system to adjust the natural gas injection volume based on the pressure data provided by the intake air pressure sensor.

[0019] Further, an exhaust gas temperature sensor is installed in the exhaust pipe of the CNG engine, the exhaust gas temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the exhaust gas, the exhaust gas temperature sensor is signal-connected to the ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the natural gas injection volume during the combustion process based on the second temperature data provided by the exhaust gas temperature sensor, so as to prevent overheating and protect the two-stage three-way catalytic converter.

[0020] A vehicle, which includes the aforementioned natural gas range extender assembly.

[0021] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the technical solution of the present utility model are as follows:

[0022] The present utility model provides a natural gas range extender assembly and a vehicle. The engine in the range extender uses CNG as fuel, with low fuel cost, greatly reducing the overall vehicle usage cost. At the same time, the generator in the range extender uses a low-speed disc motor, and there is no need to add a gear mechanism between the engine and the generator, reducing the cost of the range extender while increasing the operating efficiency. Description of the Drawings

[0023] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present utility model or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present utility model. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0024] Figure 1 is the front view of the natural gas range extender assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0025] Figure 2 is the bottom view of the natural gas range extender assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0026] Figure 3 is the rear view of the natural gas range extender assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 4 is the top view of the natural gas range extender assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Reference numeral descriptions in the figures: 1, CNG engine; 2, disc generator; 3, intake variable valve timing mechanism; 4, aftertreatment system; 5, ignition coil; 6, injection system. Detailed Embodiments

[0029] In order to better understand the purpose, structure and function of the present utility model, the following will further describe the technical solutions of the present utility model in detail with reference to the drawings and specific preferred embodiments.

[0030] In the description of the present utility model, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by terms such as "left side", "right side", "upper part", "lower part", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the present utility model and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. "First", "second", etc. do not represent the importance of the components, so it cannot be understood as a limitation to the present utility model. The specific dimensions adopted in the embodiments are only for illustrating the technical solutions by way of example and do not limit the protection scope of the present utility model. For those skilled in the art, it is understandable that some well-known structures and their descriptions in the drawings may be omitted.

[0031] Unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, terms such as "installation", "setting", "connection", "fixation", etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or integrated; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two components or the interaction relationship between two components. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0032] Embodiment 1:

[0033] As Figures 1-4 shown, the present utility model provides a technical solution:

[0034] A natural gas range extender assembly, the natural gas range extender assembly includes a CNG engine 1 and a disc generator 2. The CNG engine 1 and the disc generator 2 are connected by a torsional damper, and there is no additional gear mechanism;

[0035] The CNG engine 1 is provided with a crankshaft for outputting power, and the disc generator 2 is provided with a rotor for receiving power. The torsional damper is arranged between the crankshaft of the CNG engine 1 and the rotor of the disc generator 2;

[0036] The exhaust pipe of the CNG engine 1 is connected to a post-treatment system 4. The post-treatment system 4 is a two-stage three-way catalytic converter for treating the discharged exhaust gas; that is, two-stage TWC is used for post-treatment, which can meet the National VI emissions;

[0037] The intake manifold of the CNG engine 1 is connected to an injection system 6. The injection system 6 includes an air rail and a jet valve assembly installed on the air rail. The jet valve assembly includes a plurality of jet valves, and the jet valves are used to inject natural gas into the intake manifold of the CNG engine 1.

[0038] In this embodiment, by adopting a torsional damper instead of a traditional gear transmission system, the power transmission mechanism is significantly simplified. This design not only reduces the mechanical complexity of the system but also decreases the requirements for maintenance and operation, enhancing the reliability and economy of the system. The use of a disk generator further optimizes the space utilization. Meanwhile, in conjunction with the low-speed operation mode, the generator operates within the high-efficiency working area of the engine, thereby improving the energy efficiency ratio of the entire system. The configuration of the two-stage three-way catalytic converter not only meets the strict emission standards but also effectively reduces the emissions of harmful gases, enhancing the environmental protection performance. The design of the gas rail and the fuel injection valve assembly in the injection system ensures the uniform injection of fuel, optimizes the combustion process, and improves the fuel efficiency. Overall, through the comprehensive consideration of the optimized configuration of each system, this embodiment achieves cost reduction and performance improvement.

[0039] Embodiment 2:

[0040] Based on Embodiment 1, referring to Figures 1-4 , the torsional damper includes a pair of connecting members, and the pair of connecting members are respectively detachably connected to the crankshaft of the CNG engine 1 and the rotor of the disk generator 2.

[0041] Furthermore, the CNG engine 1 is provided with a single variable valve timing system, canceling the exhaust variable valve timing mechanism and only retaining the intake variable valve timing mechanism 3, which has little impact on the overall performance of the engine and can reduce costs;

[0042] The intake variable valve timing mechanism 3 is installed on the intake valve system of the CNG engine 1 and is used to adjust the opening and closing timing of the intake valve.

[0043] Furthermore, the end of the two-stage three-way catalytic converter is connected to an exhaust tailpipe for discharging exhaust gas outside the vehicle.

[0044] Furthermore, the CNG gas rail and the fuel injection valve assembly adopt an MPI structure.

[0045] Furthermore, the disk generator 2 adopts a low-speed disk motor. The high-efficiency area of the motor coincides well with the high-efficiency area of the engine. Meanwhile, the thickness of the disk motor is small, which is convenient for the layout of the whole vehicle.

[0046] Furthermore, the CNG engine adopts the Miller cycle and high compression ratio technology.

[0047] Furthermore, several cylinders are provided in the cylinder block of the CNG engine 1. An ignition spark plug is installed on each cylinder, and an ignition coil 5 is installed on each ignition spark plug of the cylinder. The ignition coil 5 enhances the ignition energy, and the ignition energy can reach 90 mJ.

[0048] Furthermore, the front-end attachment is driven electrically, and the 12V starter is removed to reduce costs.

[0049] Furthermore, an intake air temperature sensor is installed in the intake manifold; the intake air temperature sensor is used to measure the temperature of the gas entering the CNG engine 1, the intake air temperature sensor is signal-connected to an ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the variable valve timing mechanism to adjust the valve timing based on the first temperature data provided by the intake air temperature sensor.

[0050] Furthermore, an intake air pressure sensor is also installed in the intake manifold; the intake air pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure in the intake manifold, the intake air pressure sensor is signal-connected to the ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the injection system 6 to adjust the natural gas injection volume based on the pressure data provided by the intake air pressure sensor.

[0051] Furthermore, an exhaust gas temperature sensor is installed in the exhaust pipe of the CNG engine 1, the exhaust gas temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the exhaust gas, the exhaust gas temperature sensor is signal-connected to the ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls the natural gas injection volume during the combustion process based on the second temperature data provided by the exhaust gas temperature sensor, so as to prevent overheating and protect the two-stage three-way catalytic converter.

[0052] In Embodiment 2, the application of the single variable valve timing system reduces the manufacturing and maintenance costs by retaining the intake variable valve timing mechanism, and has a limited impact on the overall performance of the engine. The combination of the high compression ratio technology and the Miller cycle further improves the combustion efficiency and reduces the fuel consumption. The use of high-energy ignition spark plugs in the ignition system ensures the adequacy and reliability of ignition and improves the combustion efficiency. The application of the intake and exhaust sensors enables the ECU to precisely control the combustion process, thereby protecting the three-way catalytic converter and extending the service life of the system. The improvement of the overall design not only enhances the performance of the range extender but also reduces the operating costs.

[0053] Embodiment 3:

[0054] The present utility model provides a technical solution: a vehicle, which includes the aforementioned natural gas range extender assembly.

[0055] Example 3 By integrating the natural gas range extender assembly of the present application into a vehicle, its advantages in fuel economy and emission control are fully utilized. Natural gas as a fuel has lower fuel costs and lower emission levels compared to traditional gasoline and diesel, making the vehicle not only more economical but also more environmentally friendly during operation. The efficient design of the natural gas range extender assembly, combined with advanced exhaust treatment technology and a precise combustion control system, ensures that the vehicle can maintain a high operating efficiency and low emission levels under various operating conditions. The optimized cooperation between the disk generator and the CNG engine in the vehicle design further improves the overall performance and economy of the vehicle. By using a low-speed disk motor and an efficient emission treatment system, the overall operating cost of the vehicle is effectively controlled while meeting the increasingly stringent environmental protection regulations. The application of this technical solution will promote the development of the commercial vehicle industry towards a more efficient and environmentally friendly direction.

[0056] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the implementation manners of the present invention. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other different forms of changes or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is not necessary and impossible to enumerate all the implementation manners here. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, and improvements made within the spirit and principle of the present invention shall be included within the protection scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A natural gas range extender assembly, characterized in that: The natural gas range extender assembly comprises a CNG engine (1) and a disc-type generator (2), wherein the CNG engine (1) and the disc-type generator (2) are connected via a torsional damper; The CNG engine (1) is provided with a crankshaft for outputting power, the disc-type generator (2) is provided with a rotor for receiving power, and the torsional vibration damper is arranged between the crankshaft of the CNG engine (1) and the rotor of the disc-type generator (2); The exhaust pipe of the CNG engine (1) is connected to a post-processing system (4), and the post-processing system (4) is a two-stage three-way catalytic converter for processing the exhaust gas; The intake manifold of the CNG engine (1) is connected to an injection system (6), the injection system (6) comprising an air rail and an injection valve assembly mounted on the air rail, the injection valve assembly comprising a plurality of injection valves, the injection valves being used to inject natural gas into the intake manifold of the CNG engine (1).

2. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The torsional vibration damper comprises a pair of connecting pieces, wherein the pair of connecting pieces are detachably connected to the crankshaft of the CNG engine (1) and the rotor of the disc generator (2) respectively.

3. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The CNG engine (1) adopts a single variable valve timing system configuration, cancels the exhaust variable valve timing mechanism, and only retains the intake variable valve timing mechanism (3); The intake variable valve timing mechanism (3) is installed on the intake valve system of the CNG engine (1) and is used to adjust the opening and closing timing of the intake valve.

4. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The end of the two-stage three-way catalytic converter is connected to an exhaust tail pipe for discharging exhaust gas out of the vehicle.

5. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The disc-type generator (2) adopts a low-speed disc-type motor.

6. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cylinder body of the CNG engine (1) is provided with a plurality of cylinders, each of which is equipped with an ignition spark plug, and each of which is equipped with an ignition coil (5).

7. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: An intake air temperature sensor is installed in the intake manifold; the intake air temperature sensor is used to measure the temperature of the gas entering the CNG engine (1); the intake air temperature sensor signal is connected to an ECU control unit, and the ECU control unit controls a variable valve timing mechanism to adjust the valve timing based on first temperature data provided by the intake air temperature sensor.

8. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that: An intake pressure sensor is also installed in the intake manifold; the intake pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure in the intake manifold, the intake pressure sensor is connected to the ECU control unit by signal, and the ECU control unit controls the injection system (6) to adjust the natural gas injection amount based on the pressure data provided by the intake pressure sensor.

9. The natural gas range extender assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that: An exhaust temperature sensor is installed in the exhaust pipe of the CNG engine (1), and the exhaust temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the exhaust gas. The exhaust temperature sensor is connected to the ECU control unit by signal, and the ECU control unit controls the amount of natural gas injection during the combustion process based on second temperature data provided by the exhaust temperature sensor.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that: The vehicle comprises the natural gas range extender assembly as described in any one of claims 1-9.

Images