Breakaway torque prevention systems for electric vehicles and related methods

Abstract

Breakaway torque prevention systems and associated methods are disclosed. An exemplary apparatus includes an electric motor having an output shaft, a drive shaft for driving one or more wheels of a vehicle, a fluid torque converter for operatively coupling the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft, and a clutch movable between an open and a closed position. The clutch serves to fluidly couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the open position. The clutch serves to allow the electric motor to bypass the fluid torque converter in order to mechanically couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the closed position.

Description

AREA OF REVELATION

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to vehicles and in particular to breakaway torque prevention systems and related methods. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Electric vehicles (EVs) use electric motors or electric machines to apply torque to turn the vehicle's wheels. However, electric vehicles can be limited in certain applications (e.g., off-road applications, towing applications, etc.) due to the rotor lock torque (LRT) characteristics of electric motors. SUMMARY

[0003] Breakaway torque, also known as starting torque, is a torque (e.g., a maximum torque) that an electric motor produces when its rotor is stationary and full power or torque is demanded. For example, breakaway torque is an initial torque produced by an electric motor when the motor or vehicle begins to rotate from a standstill or initial position. Thus, an electric vehicle starting from a standstill can produce a maximum torque equal to the breakaway torque characteristic of the electric motor. For this reason, electric vehicles may be limited in certain applications where an electric motor must start under a load that exceeds the breakaway torque.

[0004] Due to breakaway torque limitations, electric vehicles using electric motors may experience reduced motor power at low speeds and / or when starting from a standstill (e.g., a vehicle speed of zero). At low or zero vehicle speed, an electric motor may not be able to generate enough torque to overcome a load or obstacle if the voltage supplied to the motor is insufficient. In some examples, reduced motor power may occur when the vehicle is at zero speed, when attempting to overcome an obstacle in its path, towing weight, driving, or stationary on an inclined road or track (e.g., a gradient greater than 20 degrees).

[0005] When an electric motor stalls, it typically continues to draw maximum current. In some cases, an electric motor does not generate back EMF when stalling, resulting in maximum power consumption that can reduce the electric vehicle's battery range. Therefore, electric vehicles may experience reduced performance during off-road applications, towing, driving on inclines (e.g., gradients of approximately 20 degrees or more), and / or when encountering other obstacles in the vehicle's path.

[0006] Some electric vehicle manufacturers increase the size of an electric vehicle's inverter (e.g., its power capacity) to reduce stalling issues caused by breakaway torque. However, increasing an inverter's power capacity introduces increased complexity, requiring the integration and / or modification of the electric vehicle's electrical system to manage the increased capacity. Thus, using larger inverters can require more space and increase the vehicle's weight, potentially impacting (e.g., worsening or reducing) the vehicle's overall performance and efficiency (e.g., a single-charge range). In some cases, a larger electric motor with better breakaway torque characteristics can be used.However, such an approach significantly increases the weight and / or consumes a greater amount of power, thereby reducing the overall mileage / battery charging cycle of the vehicle.

[0007] The examples disclosed herein improve drivability by reducing or preventing instances of breakaway torque and / or electric motor stalling in electric vehicles. To reduce or prevent breakaway torque conditions, the exemplary electric vehicles disclosed herein employ a breakaway torque prevention system that detects breakaway torque conditions in a vehicle. When activated, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein maintain a minimum motor speed of an electric motor (e.g., at least 500 revolutions per minute (rpm)) that enables or equals the full torque capacity of the electric motor. The exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein may employ closed-loop speed control to maintain the motor speed at speeds equal to or greater than a minimum motor speed threshold (e.g., at or above 500 revolutions per minute (rpm)).If no breakaway torque condition is detected, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein are switched off, thereby reducing inefficiencies associated with the exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems.

[0008] Exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein employ transmission systems that include a fluid coupling (e.g., a torque converter) and a locking clutch. In particular, exemplary fluid couplings disclosed herein allow slip between an output shaft of an electric motor and an input or drive shaft of a transmission, enabling the electric motor to operate at a minimum speed when the vehicle is stationary (i.e., when the vehicle speed is zero).

[0009] Additionally, examples disclosed herein employ a locking clutch to engage or activate the fluid coupling between the engine output shaft and the transmission input shaft when slip is required (e.g., when a vehicle speed does not exceed a vehicle speed threshold) and to disengage or bypass the fluid coupling between the engine output shaft and the transmission input shaft when slip is not required (e.g., when a vehicle speed exceeds a vehicle speed threshold). To operate the locking clutch and / or to activate or determine a vehicle breakaway torque condition, exemplary transmission systems disclosed herein employ a breakaway torque prevention control system (e.g., a processor circuit).

[0010] Exemplary fluid couplings disclosed herein reduce instances of engine stalling at low vehicle speeds because the fluid coupling allows slippage to enable the electric motor to operate at elevated or threshold motor speeds when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., vehicle speed is zero). Additionally, the exemplary fluid coupling disclosed herein (e.g., a torque converter) provides torque multiplication, which can improve vehicle performance. In some cases, exemplary fluid couplings disclosed herein (e.g., a torque converter) can improve the vehicle's drivability by damping torque ripple (e.g., periodic variation in torque output) from the electric motor (e.g., during low-speed uphill driving).With the exemplary fluid couplings or torque converters disclosed herein, an electric motor can be used with less consideration of torque ripple. For example, the electric motor can have a smaller rotor tilt. Reducing the rotor tilt improves the torque and / or power density, which reduces mechanical vibrations and / or noise, thereby improving motor performance.

[0011] In some examples, torque multiplication provided by exemplary torque converters disclosed herein at low vehicle speeds may allow a gearbox ratio to be larger, thereby increasing or improving the top-speed performance of the electric vehicle. In some examples, torque multiplication provided by the exemplary fluid couplings and / or torque converters disclosed herein may allow a motor to be downsized, thereby reducing weight. In some examples, torque multiplication provided by the fluid coupling at low vehicle speeds may allow an electric motor to operate at lower torques and currents, thereby reducing motor power losses (e.g., Ir). 2R-losses) can be reduced. Additionally, for example, locking clutches can disable or bypass the fluid coupling or torque converter to neutralize losses and any inefficiencies at higher vehicle speeds.

[0012] Exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein can be activated manually (e.g., via a human-machine interface or user input) or automatically based on a detected vehicle condition. For example, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention systems disclosed herein can be activated upon detection of a vehicle in a towing mode, an off-road mode, a hill start mode, an irregularity in the motor speed / torque ratio, an irregularity in the inverter phase current, and / or any other condition(s). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary vehicle in which examples revealed herein may be implemented. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of the exemplary vehicle from Fig. 1, which exhibits an exemplary breakaway torque prevention system in accordance with the teachings of this revelation. Fig. 3A is a lateral partial sectional view of an exemplary fluid coupling made of Fig. 2, wherein an exemplary locking clutch is in an exemplary open position. Fig. 3B is a side partial sectional view of the exemplary fluid coupling from Fig. 3A, where the exemplary locking clutch is in an exemplary open position. Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of an exemplary breakaway torque prevention control circuit. Fig. 2. Fig. Figures 5-8 are flowcharts that are representative of exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by an exemplary programmable circuit to implement the breakaway torque prevention control circuit. Fig. 4 to implement. Fig. Figure 9 is a block diagram of an exemplary processing platform that includes a programmable circuit structured to execute, instantiate, and / or perform the exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or the exemplary operations from Fig. 5-8 to perform the exemplary breakaway torque prevention control circuit from Fig. 4 to implement.

[0013] Generally, the same reference symbols are used throughout the drawing(s) and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Instead, the thickness of the layers or regions in the drawings may be enlarged. Although the figures show layers and regions with clear lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In reality, the boundaries and / or lines may not be observable, may merge into one another, and / or may be irregular. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary electric vehicle (EV) 100 in which the teachings of the present disclosure may be implemented. In the illustrated example from Fig. In example 1, electric vehicle 100 is a pickup truck. In other examples, electric vehicle 100 can be any type of electric vehicle (e.g., a van, a coupe, a sedan, an SUV, a semi-trailer, a minivan, a rail vehicle, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), etc.). In the illustrated example from Fig. 1. The electric vehicle 100 is a two-axle vehicle. Examples disclosed herein are suitable for driven axles (e.g., front axles and / or rear axles).

[0015] Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of an exemplary breakaway torque prevention system 200 of the electric vehicle 100. Fig. 1 in accordance with the teachings of this revelation. The exemplary breakaway torque prevention system 200 of the illustrated example includes an electric motor 202 (e.g., an electric machine) coupled to a differential 204 (e.g., a rear axle or differential) of a drive axle 206 (e.g., a rear axle, a front axle, etc.) via a transmission 208. The electric motor 202 of the illustrated example can be an alternating current (AC) motor (e.g., a three-phase motor), a brushless direct current (BLDC) motor, and / or any other electric motor(s) and / or electric machine(s).

[0016] The breakaway torque prevention system 200 of the illustrated example includes a fluid coupling 210 (e.g., a fluid torque converter) and a clutch 212 (e.g., a lock-up clutch). Specifically, the electric motor 202 has an output shaft 214 that is operatively coupled to a drive shaft 216 (e.g., an input shaft) of the transmission 208. The drive shaft 216 provides an input (e.g., input torque and / or speed) to the differential 204. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention system 200 and / or the transmission 208 of the electric vehicle 100 may include a gearbox 218. In some examples, the gearbox 218 may be coupled between the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 and the fluid coupling 210. In some examples, the gearbox 218 can be coupled between the fluid coupling 210 and the differential 204.In some examples, the gearbox 208 of the illustrated example may contain a variety of gearboxes (e.g., two or more).

[0017] The fluid coupling 210 of the illustrated example is a torque converter (e.g., a hydraulic torque converter). For example, the fluid coupling 210 of the illustrated example could include a lock-up torque converter, a multi-channel torque converter (e.g., a two-channel torque converter, a three-channel torque converter, a four-channel torque converter), a high idle torque converter, and / or any other type of torque converter and / or fluid coupling.

[0018] The fluid coupling 210 includes a drive rotor or pump impeller 222 coupled to a housing 224, a driven rotor or turbine impeller 226, a guide vane 228, and the coupling 212 (e.g., a locking coupling). A front cover 230 is coupled to the housing 224 (e.g., fixed, welded, etc.) to enclose the coupling 212, the pump impeller 222, and the turbine impeller 226. The front cover 230 and the housing 224 contain or enclose a fluid (e.g., transmission fluid, hydraulic fluid, oil, etc.). The output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 of the illustrated example is coupled to (e.g., fixed to) the front cover 230, which is coupled to (e.g., rotatably fixed to) the pump impeller 222 via the housing 224 (e.g., the front cover 230 is fixed, welded, or fastened to the housing 224). For example, the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 can drive a plate (e.g.,The drive shaft 216 of the illustrated example includes a drive hub 234 (welded or fixed to one end of the output shaft 214), which is coupled to or attached to the front cover 230 (e.g., via fasteners, a weld, etc.). The drive shaft 216 of the illustrated example is coupled to the turbine wheel 226. In particular, a first end 232 of the drive shaft 216 extends within the housing 224 of the fluid coupling 210 and is coupled to the turbine wheel 226 (e.g., via a splined connection). Thus, rotation of the output shaft 214 causes rotation of the pump wheel 222, which in turn causes the fluid within the fluid coupling 210 to rotate the turbine wheel 226 and, consequently, the drive shaft 216. The housing 224 of the illustrated example includes a drive hub 234 (e.g., welded or fixed to one end of the output shaft 214), which is coupled to or attached to the front cover 230 (e.g., via fasteners, a weld, etc.).a bushing) to allow the first end 232 of the drive shaft 216 to pass through the housing 224, and / or to allow rotation of the housing 224 and / or the pump impeller 222 relative to the drive shaft 216. A second end 236 of the drive shaft 216, opposite the first end 232, is coupled to the differential 204 (e.g., an input) of the drive axle 206 (e.g., via a gear such as a bevel gear). The differential 204 includes half-shafts 238 that extend from the differential 204 to each of the individual wheels 220 (e.g., rear wheels of the electric vehicle 100). In some examples, the drive shaft 216 may be coupled to an input shaft 204a of the differential 204.

[0019] During operation of the electric vehicle 100, an output torque demand from the electric motor 202 that exceeds a breakaway torque characteristic (e.g., a maximum torque output) of the electric motor 202 can cause the electric motor to stall when the electric vehicle 100 starts from a standstill (e.g., vehicle speed is zero). For example, in scenarios where the electric vehicle 100 is in a towing mode (e.g., towing a load), an off-road mode, crossing and / or stopping on an inclined slope, and / or otherwise overcoming an obstacle, when the electric vehicle 100 starts from a standstill, a torque demand to overcome the obstacle can be 3.5 times a torque output of the output shaft and / or the electric motor 202. Such a torque demand can be greater than the breakaway torque (e.g.,a maximum output torque) of the electric motor 202, which is associated with a vehicle speed of zero.

[0020] To overcome the breakaway torque limitations of the electric motor 202, the electric vehicle 100 of the illustrated example employs the fluid coupling 210. The fluid coupling 210 allows slippage between the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216. As a result, the electric motor 202 can be commanded to rotate at a minimum motor speed threshold when the electric vehicle 100 is stationary or traveling at low speeds (e.g., less than 5 mph, 10 mph, etc.). For example, the electric motor 202 can be operated at a minimum motor speed threshold (e.g., 500 rpm) that allows maximum torque output from the electric motor 202, thereby eliminating or reducing breakaway torque. The fluid coupling provided by the fluid coupling 210 between the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216 allows the output shaft 214 to rotate (e.g.,(slippage occurs) while the drive shaft 216 is in a stall or zero-speed state. As a result, the fluid coupling 210 allows the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 to rotate at a first speed that differs from a second speed of the drive shaft 216.

[0021] To enable slippage, the fluid coupling 210 fluidically (e.g., mechanically) couples the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216. During operation, the rotation of the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 causes the pump impeller 222 to rotate via the connection between the front cover 230 and the housing 224. As the electric motor 202 rotates, it turns or spins the pump impeller 222, which in turn sets fluid in motion within the housing 224 (e.g., centrifugal motion). Specifically, the centrifugal force moves the fluid toward an outer wall of the housing 224. The fluid then moves through vanes of the guide vane 228, which are positioned between the pump impeller 222 and the turbine impeller 226. The guide vane 228 deflects the fluid flow, thereby increasing the torque that is delivered to a power output side and / or to the turbine impeller 226.When the fluid moves from the pump wheel 222 via the guide wheel 228 to the turbine wheel 226, the fluid generates a torque on the turbine wheel 226, which causes the turbine 226 and thus the drive shaft 216 to rotate, thereby providing an input force to the differential 204, which causes the wheels 220 to rotate.

[0022] The torque multiplication effect enables the fluid coupling 210 to increase the torque output from the electric motor 202, thereby improving vehicle acceleration and overall performance. This is particularly useful during acceleration and when overcoming resistance, such as when starting from a standstill, during towing operations, or when driving uphill. Additionally, the fluid coupling 210 enables smooth engagement or power transfer from the electric motor 202 to the transmission 208 or the drive shaft 216. Furthermore, the torque amplification provided by the fluid coupling 210 reduces the loads and / or stresses on the electric motor 202, resulting in less wear and tear on the electric motor 202 and thus extending its service life.

[0023] In addition, the breakaway torque prevention system 200 of the illustrated example uses a breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 to bypass the fluid coupling 210 or to engage the fluid coupling 210 based on a condition of the electric vehicle 100, as shown below in conjunction with Fig. Figures 4-8 show this. In particular, bypassing the fluid coupling 210 allows the output shaft 214 to be mechanically coupled to the drive shaft 216 (e.g., rigidly fixed to it) to prevent slippage between the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216. Activating or switching on the fluid coupling 210 fluidically couples (e.g., decouples) the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216 to allow slippage between the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216.

[0024] To engage and / or disengage the fluid coupling 210, the breakaway torque prevention system of the illustrated example includes the coupling 212 (e.g., a lock-up coupling). The coupling 212 of the illustrated example is connected between a disengaged position (e.g., a disengaged position 302 from Fig. 3A) and a engaged position (e.g., an engaged position 304 from Fig. 3B) movable. In the disengaged position 302, the clutch 212 mechanically decouples the pump impeller 222 and the turbine impeller 226. Thus, the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 and the drive shaft 216 are fluidically coupled via the fluid coupling 210 (leading, for example, to torque generation and / or torque amplification, as described above) when the clutch is in the disengaged position 302, allowing slippage between the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 and the drive shaft 216. In this way, the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 rotates at a first speed that differs from a second speed of the drive shaft 216. In the engaged position 304, the coupling 212 connects the pump wheel 222 and the turbine wheel 226 directly or rigidly (e.g., couples them mechanically), thereby effectively bypassing the fluid coupling 210.In this way, the clutch 212 prevents slippage between the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 and the drive shaft 216 when the clutch 212 is in the engaged position. This ensures that the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216 rotate at the same speed. In some examples, the clutch 212 is moved into the engaged position 304 at higher vehicle speeds, thereby improving efficiency and reducing heat generation. In particular, bypassing the fluid coupling 210 reduces power loss and / or heat generation caused by the fluid connection between the pump impeller 222 and the turbine impeller 226.

[0025] The clutch 212 of the illustrated example is an electronically operated clutch. To control or move the clutch 212 between the disengaged and engaged positions, the breakaway torque prevention system 200 employs a pressurized fluid system 242. The pressurized fluid system 242 supplies or delivers pressurized fluid to either a front surface 244 or a rear surface 246 of the clutch 212 relative to the front surface 244. The engagement and disengagement of the clutch 212 depends on the direction of the pressurized fluid relative to the clutch 212.

[0026] To control the pressurized fluid of the coupling 212, the exemplary pressurized fluid system 242 of the illustrated example includes a main control valve 252, which is pilot-operated by a solenoid 254. For example, commanding the solenoid 254 to a first position (e.g., an "on" position) causes the valve 250 to supply pressurized fluid to the front surface 244 of the coupling 212 (e.g., a clutch disc, a plurality of clutch discs) via a first port 256 of the front cover 230. For example, the solenoid 254 can be energized by a command signal (e.g., a current, an electrical signal, a binary value "1", etc.) to cause the solenoid 254 to move to the first position. The pressurized fluid, in turn, exerts a force on the front surface 244 of the coupling 212 (e.g.,the clutch disc) to cause the clutch 212 to move into the disengaged position 302 (e.g., to move axially) (e.g., to cause the clutch 212 to move away from the front cover 230 in a direction to frictionally disengage the front cover 230). In this state, the clutch 212 is in the disengaged position 302 (e.g., an open position), which is mechanically decoupled from the front cover 230. When the clutch 212 is in the disengaged position 302, the clutch 212 thus causes the output shaft 214 and the input shaft 216 to be fluidically coupled (e.g., mechanically decoupled) via the fluid coupling 210.

[0027] In contrast, commanding the solenoid coil 254 to a second position (e.g., an "off" position) causes the valve 250 to direct pressurized fluid via a second port 258 of the front cover 230 to the rear surface 246 of the coupling 212. For example, the solenoid coil 254 can be switched off by a command signal (e.g., removing a current, a binary value "0", etc.) to cause the solenoid coil 254 to move to the second position. The increased pressure, in turn, causes the coupling 212 to move towards the front cover 230 (e.g., slide axially) to engage with the front cover 230 (e.g., to engage by friction). The coupling 212, which is coupled to the turbine wheel 226, causes the turbine wheel 226 to rotate with the front cover 230, the housing 224 and the pump wheel 222 when the coupling 212 is in the engaged position 304 (e.g.The clutch 212 is in frictional engagement with the front cover 230. In the engaged position 304, the clutch 212 mechanically couples the output shaft 214 and the input shaft 216. When the clutch 212 is in the engaged position 304, the pump impeller 222 is mechanically coupled to the turbine impeller 226, and power is transmitted from the electric motor 202 to the gearbox 208 without power losses caused by the fluid coupling 210. Additionally, the clutch 212 of the illustrated example includes damping springs that absorb torsional vibrations during engagement / disengagement of the clutch to prevent or reduce shock transmission to the gearbox 208.

[0028] To determine breakaway torque conditions and / or control the state of the clutch 212, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention system of the illustrated example includes the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240. In general, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 controls the state of the clutch 212 based on a detected condition of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 causes the clutch 212 to open / disengage when breakaway torque conditions are detected at low vehicle speeds, in order to maintain the transmission 208 in a slip state. Conversely, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 causes the clutch 212 to close / engage when breakaway torque conditions are not present and / or the vehicle is operating above a threshold vehicle speed, in order to maintain the transmission 208 in a non-slip state.

[0029] In some examples, to determine breakaway torque conditions, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 compares one or more motor speed values, torque command values, motor torque output values, inverter phase current values, and / or other parameters of the electric vehicle 100 that indicate an irregularity and / or an exceedance of desired operating parameters. For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 uses one or more signals (e.g., feedback signals) from the one or more sensors 260 and / or a motor control unit (MCU) 262 of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the MCU 262 is an electronic module that provides an interface between one or more batteries (e.g., DC power source) and the electric motor 202 (e.g., AC motor).In the illustrated example, the MCU 262 converts direct current supplied by the batteries of the electric vehicle 100 into three-phase alternating current, which drives the electric motor 202. Thus, the MCU 262 controls the motor speed and / or the torque of the electric motor 202. The one or more sensors 260 can include a tachometer, a magnetic sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor), an inductive sensor, a temperature sensor, a current sensor, an encoder, a rotary encoder, a camera, an imaging sensor, an accelerometer, a trailer light detection sensor, and / or any other sensor. For example, Hall effect sensors, encoders, rotary encoders, etc. can be used to detect the rotational speed of the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202.A torque output is proportional to a magnetic flux, which is proportional to a current. Thus, the torque output of electric motor 202 can be derived by measuring the current flowing to an electric motor inverter drive. The camera and / or imaging sensor can be used to detect a towing condition, a terrain condition, a gradient condition, etc. In some examples, a road gradient can be detected by determining the orientation of the electric vehicle using feedback signals from an accelerometer, image processing, etc.

[0030] Fig. 3A is a side partial sectional view of the exemplary fluid coupling 210 from Fig. 2, wherein the coupling is in an exemplary disengaged position 302. Fig. 3B is a side partial sectional view of the exemplary fluid coupling 210 from Fig. 3A, wherein the coupling is in an exemplary engaged position 304. With reference to Fig. 3A-3B slides the coupling 212 in an axial direction relative to the front cover 230 over the pressure system to move the coupling 212 between the engaged position 304 and the disengaged position 302.

[0031] Fig. Figure 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 from Fig. 2. The breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 operates the fluid coupling 210 based on detected conditions of the electric vehicle 100. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 can determine whether one or more conditions of the electric vehicle 100 (e.g., a towing condition, a terrain condition, a hill start condition, a vehicle speed condition, and / or another vehicle condition) could cause a breakaway torque and / or engine stalling. The breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 consists of Fig. 4 can be instantiated by a programmable circuit, such as a central processing unit (CPU), which executes initial instructions (e.g., creating an instance of it, triggering it for a desired duration, materializing it, implementing it, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 can be used. Fig. 4 by (i) an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) and / or (ii) a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) that is structured and / or configured in response to the execution of second instructions to perform operations corresponding to the first instructions (e.g., creating an instance of it, inducing it for any duration, materializing it, implementing it, etc.). It is understood that some or all of the circuits from Fig. 4. They can therefore be instantiated at the same or different times. Some or all of the circuits from Fig. For example, 4 can be instantiated in one or more threads that are executed concurrently on hardware and / or sequentially on hardware. Furthermore, in some examples, some or all of the circuits from Fig. 4. This may be implemented by a microprocessor circuit that executes instructions and / or an FPGA circuit that performs operations to convert one or more virtual machines and / or one or more containers.

[0032] The exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 from Fig. Figure 4 includes an exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402, an exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 404, an exemplary breakaway torque identifier circuit 406, an exemplary motor speed determiner circuit 408, and an exemplary brake modulation circuit 410. The exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402 further includes an exemplary towing mode detection circuit 412, an exemplary terrain detection circuit 414, an exemplary gradient detection circuit 416, an exemplary vehicle speed detection circuit 418, an exemplary torque command circuit 420, an exemplary motor speed detection circuit 422, an exemplary motor torque determiner circuit 424, and an exemplary inverter phase current detection circuit 426.

[0033] The exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402 determines a condition of the electric vehicle 100 based on information (e.g., one or more feedback signals) provided by the sensor(s) 260, user input (e.g., a human-machine interface), the MCU 262, and / or any other system(s) of the exemplary electric vehicle 100. In some examples, the vehicle condition circuit 402 can determine a condition of the electric vehicle 100 that includes, for example, a towing condition, a terrain condition, a hill start condition, a standstill condition, a temperature condition, and / or any other vehicle condition(s). In other examples, the vehicle condition circuit 402 may include any other circuit for detecting a condition of the electric vehicle 100 that is associated with and / or can cause a breakaway torque condition(s).

[0034] The tow-mode detection circuit 412 of the illustrated example determines whether the electric vehicle 100 is in a tow mode or a towing condition. For example, the tow-mode detection circuit 412 can determine that the electric vehicle 100 is in a tow mode by detecting a trailer light connection to the electric vehicle 100. For example, a trailer light module or connector of the electric vehicle 100 may include a sensor that provides feedback to the MCU 262 and / or the tow-mode detection circuit 412 indicating that trailer lights (e.g., an electrical connection) are coupled to the module connector. In some examples, the tow-mode detection circuit 412 may use image recognition or image feedback provided by the sensor(s) 260 (e.g.,The tow mode detection circuit 412, based on data provided by the electric vehicle 100's cameras, determines whether the electric vehicle 100 is in a tow mode. In some examples, the tow mode detection circuit 412 detects a tow mode based on user input provided by a human-machine / user interface (e.g., a push button in the cabin of the electric vehicle 100).

[0035] The terrain mode detection circuit 414 determines whether the electric vehicle 100 is in a terrain mode and / or terrain condition. For example, the terrain mode detection circuit 414 can determine whether the electric vehicle 100 is in a terrain mode based on image recognition or image feedback provided by the sensor(s) 260 (e.g., cameras) of the electric vehicle 100. In some examples, the terrain mode detection circuit 414 detects a terrain mode based on user input provided by a human-machine / user interface (e.g., a push button in the cabin of the electric vehicle 100).

[0036] The slope detection circuit 416 detects the orientation of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the slope detection circuit 416 receives feedback signals from an accelerometer of the electric vehicle 100, which detects an orientation (e.g., a sloping, angled, or inclined orientation) of the electric vehicle 100. The orientation of the electric vehicle 100 indicates an angle of the road or path. In other examples, the slope detection circuit 416 can detect a road gradient by processing images captured by a camera of the electric vehicle 100.

[0037] The vehicle speed detection circuit 418 determines the vehicle speed of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the vehicle speed detection circuit 418 can receive vehicle speed information from the MCU 262 and / or can receive feedback signals from one or more sensors 260 and / or any other component(s) of the electric vehicle 100.

[0038] The torque command circuit 420 determines a torque command provided by a user or driver. For example, the torque command circuit 420 receives torque command values ​​from the MCU 262. For example, the torque command values ​​are provided by a user's interaction with a pedal of the electric vehicle 100.

[0039] The motor speed detection circuit 422 determines, receives and / or otherwise obtains a motor speed output from the electric motor 202. For example, the motor speed detection circuit 422 receives motor speed values ​​from the MCU 262 and / or one or more sensors 260 (e.g. Hall effect sensors, encoders, rotary encoders) that are used to detect the speed of the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202.

[0040] The motor torque determiner circuit 424 determines, receives, and / or otherwise obtains a motor torque output from the electric motor 202. For example, the motor torque determiner circuit 424 receives motor torque values ​​from the MCU 262. In some examples, the motor torque determiner circuit 424 calculates a motor torque output based on a measured current of the electric motor 202. A torque output is, for example, proportional to a magnetic flux, which is proportional to a current. Thus, the torque output of the electric motor 202 can be derived by measuring a current flowing to an electric motor inverter drive.

[0041] The inverter phase current detection circuit 426 determines, receives, and / or otherwise obtains current values ​​flowing to the electric motor 202 and / or an inverter of the electric motor 202. In some examples, the inverter phase current detection circuit 426 receives current consumption information from the MCU 262. In other examples, the inverter phase current detection circuit 426 receives measured current values ​​from the electric motor 202.

[0042] In some examples, the vehicle condition circuit 402 (e.g., the exemplary tow-mode detection circuit 412, the exemplary terrain detection circuit 414, the exemplary gradient detection circuit 416, the exemplary vehicle speed detection circuit 418, the exemplary torque command circuit 420, the exemplary engine speed detection circuit 422, the exemplary engine torque determiner circuit 424, which is an exemplary inverter phase current detection circuit 426) is instantiated by a programmable circuit that executes vehicle condition circuit instructions and / or is configured to perform operations such as those described by the flowcharts of the Fig. Figures 5-8 are shown. In some examples, the vehicle condition circuit 402 includes means for determining an operating condition of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the means for determining this condition can be implemented by the vehicle condition circuit 402. In some examples, the vehicle condition circuit 402 can be implemented by a programmable circuit, such as the exemplary programmable circuit 900 from [reference missing]. Fig. 9, instantiated. For example, the vehicle condition circuit 402 can be instantiated by a microprocessor that can execute machine-executable instructions, such as those defined at least by blocks 912, 914, and 916 from Fig. 9 are implemented. In some examples, the Vehicle Condition Circuit 402 can be instantiated by a hardware logic circuit, which may be implemented by an ASIC, an XPU, or an FPGA circuit, configured and / or structured to perform operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the Vehicle Condition Circuit 402 can be instantiated by any other combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the Vehicle Condition Circuit 402 can be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., a processor circuit, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, an FPGA, an ASIC, an XPU, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.).) be implemented in a way that is configured and / or structured to execute some or all of the machine-readable instructions and / or to perform some or all of the operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions without executing any software or firmware, however, other structures are equally suitable.

[0043] The exemplary breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 activates a breakaway torque prevention mode of the electric vehicle 100 based on the detected vehicle condition determined by the vehicle condition circuit 402. For example, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 determines whether the vehicle condition detected by the vehicle condition circuit 402 is associated with and / or specifies a potential breakaway torque condition. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 can use a lookup table to determine whether a detected condition specifies a potential breakaway torque condition. For example, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 can activate the breakaway torque prevention mode in response to detecting that a vehicle speed is less than a vehicle speed threshold (e.g.,5 mph), the electric vehicle 100 is in towing mode, the electric vehicle 100 is in off-road mode, the electric vehicle 100 is on an incline greater than an incline threshold, the torque output of the electric motor 202 is greater than a torque threshold, the motor speed of the electric motor 202 is less than a motor speed threshold (e.g., 500 rpm), the inverter phase current is greater than a current threshold, and / or any other condition or parameter of the electric vehicle 100. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 initiates control logic (and / or activates, for example, the breakaway torque prevention identification circuit 406) to monitor and / or verify the vehicle speed of the electric vehicle 100.

[0044] In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 is instantiated by a programmable circuit that executes instructions and / or is configured to perform operations such as those shown in the flowcharts from Fig. 5-8. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 includes means for switching on a breakaway torque prevention circuit if the detected vehicle condition indicates possible rotor stall conditions. For example, the means for switching on the breakaway torque prevention circuit can be implemented by the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 can be implemented by a programmable circuit, such as the exemplary programmable circuit 900 from Fig. 9, instantiated. For example, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 can be instantiated by a microprocessor that executes machine-executable instructions, such as those defined at least by blocks 912, 914, and 916 from Fig. 9 are implemented. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 can be instantiated by a hardware logic circuit, which may be implemented by an ASIC, an XPU, or the FPGA circuit, configured and / or structured to perform operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 can be instantiated by any other combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 can be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., a processor circuit, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, an FPGA, an ASIC, an XPU, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.).) be implemented in a way that is configured and / or structured to execute some or all of the machine-readable instructions and / or to perform some or all of the operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions without executing any software or firmware, however, other structures are equally suitable.

[0045] The breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines whether the vehicle condition is a breakaway torque condition. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 compares one or more conditions or signals from the vehicle condition circuit 402, the MCU 262, the sensor(s) 260, and / or other systems of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 compares one or more parameters with threshold values, including vehicle speed, motor speed, motor torque, inverter phase current, torque command / torque output mismatch, vehicle speed / torque command mismatch, and / or any other parameters, to determine whether the vehicle condition identified by the vehicle condition monitoring circuit 402 can indicate a breakaway torque and / or motor stall.In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 compares one or more measured or detected values ​​or parameters and a threshold value that is associated with correlation values ​​428. In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 obtains or determines a threshold value (e.g., a motor speed threshold, a motor torque threshold, etc.) from the correlation values ​​428. For example, the correlation values ​​428 may include motor speed-to-torque values, motor current-to-speed values, motor current-to-motor torque values, vehicle speed-to-motor speed values, and / or any other values. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 may use the correlation values ​​428 to match the electric motor 202 with motor speeds (e.g.,to operate (RPM) which are assigned to a motor torque corresponding to a torque requirement value generated by a user of the electric vehicle 100 based on a vehicle speed.

[0046] Based on the vehicle condition and / or other parameters of the electric vehicle 100 provided by the vehicle condition circuit 402, the MCU, the sensor(s), and / or other systems of the electric vehicle 100, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines whether the clutch 212 is to move to the engaged position 304 or the disengaged position 302. The breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs, or otherwise causes the clutch 212 to move to the disengaged position 302 in response to a determination that a breakaway torque condition exists, and to move to the engaged position 304 in response to a determination that no breakaway torque condition exists.For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs and / or otherwise causes the solenoid coil 254 to move between the open position and the closed position in order to move the valve 252 between the first position and the second position and thus move the clutch 212 between the disengaged position 302 and the engaged position 304.

[0047] In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 is instantiated by a programmable circuit that executes instructions and / or is configured to perform operations such as those shown in the flowcharts from Fig. 5-8, to carry out. In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 includes means for determining a breakaway torque condition of the electric vehicle 100. For example, the means for determining can be implemented by the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406. In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 can be implemented by a programmable circuit, such as the exemplary programmable circuit 900 from Fig. 9, instantiated. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 can be instantiated by a microprocessor that can execute machine-executable instructions, such as those defined at least by blocks 912, 914, and 916 from Fig. 9 are implemented. In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 can be instantiated by a hardware logic circuit, which may be implemented by an ASIC, an XPU, or the FPGA circuit, configured and / or structured to perform operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 can be instantiated by any other combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 can be instantiated by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., processor circuitry, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, an FPGA, an ASIC, an XPU, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.).) be implemented in a way that is configured and / or structured to execute some or all of the machine-readable instructions and / or to perform some or all of the operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions without executing any software or firmware, however, other structures are equally suitable.

[0048] The exemplary motor speed determining circuit 408 determines, commands, or causes the electric motor 202 to operate at a motor speed operating threshold based on the vehicle condition determined by the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406. For example, when the clutch 212 is in the disengaged position 302, the motor speed determining circuit 408 determines a minimum motor operating speed. Specifically, the minimum motor operating speed is a motor speed greater than a minimum motor speed threshold associated with a full torque capability of the electric motor 202. For example, the correlation values ​​428 may include speed-torque values ​​that specify a minimum speed (e.g., 500 rpm) of the electric motor 202 to prevent breakaway torque and output a full rated torque capacity based on a vehicle speed and / or condition of the electric vehicle 100.In some examples, the motor speed control circuit 408 causes the electric motor 202 to operate at a minimum motor speed threshold (e.g., greater than 500 rpm) or higher when the clutch 212 is in the disengaged position 302. For example, the motor speed control circuit 408 causes the MCU 262 to operate the electric motor 202 based on a motor speed value determined by the motor speed control circuit 408. In some examples, the motor speed control circuit 408 maintains a motor speed based on a torque command (detected, for example, by the torque command circuit 420). For example, if the clutch 212 is open / disengaged and the fluid coupling 210 is slipping, a torque output is dynamic (e.g., based on the slip level).Thus, instead of a torque-based control, the motor speed control circuit 408 controls the motor speed with a minimum motor speed threshold in order to maintain a commanded vehicle speed.

[0049] In some examples, the motor speed control circuit 408 is instantiated by a programmable circuit that executes instructions and / or is configured to perform operations such as those shown in the flowcharts from Fig. 5-8. In some examples, the motor speed determining circuit 408 includes means for determining motor speed values ​​when the clutch 212 is in the disengaged position 302 and / or the electric vehicle 100 is in a breakaway torque condition determined by the vehicle condition circuit 402, the breakaway torque prevention switch-on circuit 404, and / or the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406. For example, the means for determining may be implemented by the motor speed determining circuit 408. In some examples, the motor speed determining circuit 408 may be implemented by a programmable circuit, such as the exemplary programmable circuit 900 from Fig. 9, instantiated. For example, the motor speed control circuit 408 can be instantiated by a microprocessor that executes machine-executable instructions, such as those defined at least by blocks 912, 914, and 916 from Fig. 9 are implemented. In some examples, the motor speed control circuit 408 can be instantiated by a hardware logic circuit, which may be implemented by an ASIC, an XPU, or an FPGA circuit, configured and / or structured to perform operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the motor speed control circuit 408 can be instantiated by any other combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the motor speed control circuit 408 can be implemented by at least one or more hardware circuits (e.g., a processor circuit, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, an FPGA, an ASIC, an XPU, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.).) be implemented in a way that is configured or structured to execute some or all of the machine-readable instructions and / or to perform some or all of the operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions without executing any software or firmware, however, other structures are equally suitable.

[0050] The exemplary brake modulation circuit 410 determines whether brakes (e.g., friction brakes) are to be modulated to control the vehicle speed and / or counteract a creep torque from the fluid coupling 210. For example, the brake modulation circuit 410 determines brake modulation when the terrain mode detection circuit 414 determines that the vehicle condition is a terrain condition and the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 has caused the clutch 212 to move into the disengaged position 302. The brake modulation circuit 410 can receive vehicle speed information from the vehicle speed detection circuit 418 when determining the degree of modulation required to control the vehicle speed to a target vehicle speed value.

[0051] In some examples, the brake modulation circuit 410 is instantiated by a programmable circuit executing brake modulation circuit instructions and / or is used to perform operations such as those described by the flowcharts from Fig. Figures 5-8 are shown, configured. In some examples, the brake modulation circuit 410 includes means for determining a brake modulation based on the detected breakaway torque condition and / or the terrain mode detection circuit 414. For example, the means for determining can be implemented by the brake modulation circuit 410. In some examples, the brake modulation circuit 410 can be implemented by a programmable circuit, such as the exemplary programmable circuit 900 from Figure 5-8. Fig. 9, instantiated. For example, the brake modulation circuit 410 can be instantiated by a microprocessor that executes machine-executable instructions, such as those defined at least by blocks 912, 914, and 916 from Fig. 9 are implemented. In some examples, the brake modulation circuit 410 can be instantiated by a hardware logic circuit, which may be implemented by an ASIC, an XPU, or the FPGA circuit, configured and / or structured to perform operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, the brake modulation circuit 410 can be instantiated by any other combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. For example, the brake modulation circuit 410 can be implemented by at least one or more hardware circuits (e.g., a processor circuit, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuit, an FPGA, an ASIC, an XPU, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.).) be implemented in a way that is configured and / or designed to execute some or all of the machine-readable instructions and / or to perform some or all of the operations corresponding to the machine-readable instructions without executing any software or firmware, however, other designs are equally suitable.

[0052] While in Fig. 4 an exemplary way of implementing the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 from Fig. As illustrated in 2, one or more of the elements, processes and / or devices that are in Fig. 4, which are illustrated, may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or implemented in any other way. Furthermore, the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 404, the exemplary breakaway torque identifier circuit 406, the exemplary engine speed determiner circuit 408, the exemplary brake modulation circuit 410, the exemplary tow mode detection circuit 412, the exemplary terrain detection circuit 414, the exemplary gradient detection circuit 416, the exemplary vehicle speed detection circuit 418, the exemplary torque command circuit 420, the exemplary engine speed detection circuit 422, the exemplary engine torque determiner circuit 424, and the exemplary inverter phase current detection circuit 426, and / or more generally, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240, may be derived from Fig. 4. can be implemented by hardware alone or by hardware in combination with software and / or firmware. Thus, for example, any of the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 404, the exemplary breakaway torque identifier circuit 406, the exemplary engine speed determiner circuit 408, the exemplary brake modulation circuit 410, the exemplary towing mode detection circuit 412, the exemplary terrain detection circuit 414, the exemplary gradient detection circuit 416, the exemplary vehicle speed detection circuit 418, the exemplary torque command circuit 420, the exemplary engine speed detection circuit 422, the exemplary engine torque determiner circuit 424, and the exemplary inverter phase current detection circuit 426, and / or more generally, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240, could be implemented. Fig. 4. can be implemented by a programmable circuit in combination with machine-readable instructions (e.g., firmware or software), a processor circuit, analog circuit(s), digital circuit(s), logic circuit(s), programmable processor(s), programmable microcontroller, graphics processing unit(s) (GPU(s)), digital signal processor(s) (DSP(s)), ASIC(s), programmable logic device(s) (PLD(s)), and / or field-programmable logic device(s) (FPLD(s)), such as FPGAs. Furthermore, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 can be implemented from Fig. 4 one or more elements, one or more processes and / or one or more devices in addition to or instead of those in Fig. 4 illustrated elements and / or it may include more than one of any or all of the illustrated elements, processes and devices.

[0053] Flowcharts that represent exemplary machine-readable instructions that can be executed by programmable circuits to operate the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240. Fig. 4 to implement and / or instantiate, and / or represent exemplary operations that can be performed by a programmable circuit to implement the breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 from Fig. 4. To implement and / or instantiate, are in Fig. 5-8 shown. The machine-readable instructions may be one or more executable programs or (a) section(s) of one or more executable programs for execution by a programmable circuit, such as the programmable circuit 912 shown in the exemplary programmable circuit platform 900, which is described below in conjunction with Fig. 9 is discussed, and / or may be one or more functions or sections of functions to be performed by the exemplary programmable circuit. In some examples, the machine-readable instructions cause an operation, task, etc., to be performed automatically in the real world. As used herein, "automated" means without human intervention.

[0054] The program(s) may be implemented as instructions (e.g., software and / or firmware) stored on one or more non-transient computer-readable and / or machine-readable storage media, such as cache memory, a magnetic storage device or disk (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk drive (HDD), etc.), an optical storage device or disk (e.g., a Blu-ray disc, a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), etc.), a redundant array of independent hard disks (RAID), a register, ROM, a solid-state drive (SSD), SSD memory, non-volatile memory (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, etc.), volatile memory (e.g., random-access memory (RAM) of any type, etc.), and / or any other storage device or disk.The instructions of the non-transitory computer-readable and / or machine-readable medium can program and / or be executed by programmable circuits located in one or more hardware devices. However, the entire program and / or parts thereof can alternatively be executed and / or instantiated by one or more hardware devices other than the programmable circuit and / or implemented as dedicated hardware. The machine-readable instructions can be distributed across multiple hardware devices and / or executed by two or more hardware devices (e.g., a server and a client hardware device). For example, the client hardware device can be an endpoint client hardware device (e.g., a hardware device associated with a human and / or machine user) or an intermediate client hardware device gateway (e.g., a server).A radio access network (RAN) that can enable communication between a server and an endpoint client hardware device may be implemented. Similarly, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may include one or more media. Although the example program refers to the one in . Fig. As described in the illustrated flowcharts 5-8, many other methods for implementing the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 can also be found. Fig. 4. Alternatively, the flowchart blocks can be used in different ways. For example, the execution order of the flowchart blocks can be changed, and / or some of the described blocks can be modified, removed, duplicated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all of the flowchart blocks can be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., processor circuitry, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuitry, an ASIC, a comparator, an operational amplifier (op-amp), a logic circuit, etc.) structured to perform the corresponding operation without executing any software or firmware. The programmable circuitry can be distributed across different network locations and / or locally on one or more hardware devices (e.g., a single-core processor (e.g., a single-core CPU), a multi-core processor (e.g., a multi-core CPU, an XPU, etc.)).For example, the programmable circuit could be a CPU located in the same package (e.g., in the same package of an integrated circuit (IC) or in two or more separate packages), one or more processors in a single machine, multiple processors distributed across multiple servers in a server rack, multiple processors distributed across one or more server racks, etc., and / or any combination(s) thereof.

[0055] The machine-readable instructions described herein may be stored in one or more compressed, encrypted, fragmented, compiled, executable, packed, and other formats. Machine-readable instructions, as described herein, may be stored as data (e.g., computer-readable data, machine-readable data, one or more bits (e.g., one or more computer-readable bits, one or more machine-readable bits, etc.), a bitstream (e.g., a computer-readable bitstream, a machine-readable bitstream, etc.)) or a data structure (e.g., as part(s) of instructions, code, representations of code, etc.) that can be used to create, manufacture, and / or generate machine-executable instructions. For example, the machine-readable instructions may be fragmented and stored on one or more storage devices, disks, and / or computing devices (e.g.,Machine-readable instructions may be stored on servers located in the same or different locations within a network or collection of networks (e.g., in the cloud, on edge devices, etc.). These instructions may require one or more operations of installation, modification, customization, updating, combining, augmentation, configuration, decryption, decompression, unpacking, distribution, reassignment, compilation, etc., to make them directly readable, interpretable, and / or executable by a computing device and / or other machine.For example, the machine-readable instructions may be stored in multiple parts, which are individually compressed, encrypted and / or stored on separate computing devices, the parts, when decrypted, decompressed and / or combined, forming a set of computer-executable and / or machine-executable instructions that implement one or more functions and / or operations that together may form a program, as described here.

[0056] In another example, the machine-readable instructions might be stored in a state where they can be read by a programmable circuit, but require the addition of a library (e.g., a Dynamic Link Library (DLL)), a Software Development Kit (SDK), an Application Programming Interface (API), etc., to execute the machine-readable instructions on a specific computing device or other device. In yet another example, the machine-readable instructions might need to be configured (e.g., settings saved, data entered, network addresses recorded, etc.) before the machine-readable instructions and / or the corresponding program(s) can be executed, in whole or in part.Thus, machine-readable, computer-readable and / or machine-readable media such as those used herein may contain instructions and / or (a) program(s) regardless of the specific format or state of the machine-readable instructions and / or program(s).

[0057] The machine-readable instructions described herein can be represented by any past, present, or future instruction language, scripting language, programming language, etc. For example, the machine-readable instructions can be represented using any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, C#, Perl, Python, JavaScript, HyperText Markup Language (HTML), Structured Query Language (SQL), Swift, etc.

[0058] As mentioned above, the exemplary processes can be derived from Fig. 5-8 are implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer-readable and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable and / or machine-readable media. As used herein, the terms non-transitory computer-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, non-transitory machine-readable medium, and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage medium are expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk and to exclude signal propagation and transmission media.Examples of such non-transitory computer-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, non-transitory machine-readable medium and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage medium include optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, a hard disk drive (HDD), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), a CD, a DVD, a cache, RAM of any type, a register and / or any other storage device or storage disk on which information is stored for any duration (e.g., for extended periods, permanently, for short periods, for temporary buffering and / or intermediate storage of information).In this context, the terms "non-transitory computer-readable storage device" and "non-transitory machine-readable storage device" are defined as including any physical (mechanical, magnetic, and / or electrical) hardware for storing information, excluding signal propagation and transmission media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable storage devices and / or non-transitory machine-readable storage devices include random-access memory of any type, read-only memory of any type, semiconductor memory, flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks, disk drives, and / or RAID systems. As used herein, the term "device" refers to a physical construct, such as mechanical and / or electrical equipment, hardware, and / or a circuit, that is controlled by computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc.may or may not be configured, etc., and / or are manufactured to execute computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc.

[0059] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart that represents exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 500 that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by an exemplary programmable circuit to detect breakaway torque conditions of the electric vehicle 100. The exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 500 from Fig. Section 5 begins at block 502, where the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors and / or determines a vehicle condition. For example, the vehicle condition circuit 402 determines whether the electric vehicle 100 is in a tow-mode, off-road, inclined gradient, vehicle speed, torque command, motor speed, inverter phase current, and / or any other vehicle condition(s) and / or parameter(s). Some exemplary vehicle condition detection operations are described in the Fig. Described in sections 6-8.

[0060] At block 504, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 determines whether the breakaway torque prevention mode should be activated. For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 determines whether the vehicle condition(s) detected by the vehicle condition circuit 402 at block 502 could potentially cause a breakaway torque condition. In some examples, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 compares one or more detected conditions and / or parameters provided by the vehicle condition circuit 402 with thresholds and / or lookup tables to determine whether the detected condition(s) and / or parameter(s) will cause the breakaway torque prevention mode to be activated.

[0061] If the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 at block 504 determines that the vehicle condition(s) detected at block 502 does not cause a breakaway torque condition, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 and / or the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 command, instruct, or otherwise cause the solenoid coil 254 to move to the second position to engage / close the clutch 212 (block 518). In the engaged position, the clutch 212 bypasses the fluid coupling 210 and allows the output shaft 214 of the electric motor 202 to mechanically couple to the drive shaft 216.

[0062] If the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 at block 504 determines that the vehicle condition(s) detected at block 502 could potentially cause a breakaway torque condition, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 activates the breakaway torque prevention mode (block 506). Activating the breakaway torque prevention mode allows the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 to monitor for a breakaway torque.

[0063] In block 508, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines whether the vehicle speed exceeds a vehicle speed threshold. In some examples, the vehicle speed threshold may be a predetermined value (e.g., 5 miles per hour (mph)). In other examples, the vehicle speed threshold may be determined from a lookup table, such as the correlation values ​​428.

[0064] If the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 at block 508 determines that the vehicle speed exceeds the vehicle speed threshold, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines that the detected condition(s) and / or parameter(s) provided by the vehicle condition circuit 402 will not cause a breakaway torque and commands, instructs, or otherwise causes the solenoid 254 to move into the second position to engage / close the clutch 212 (block 518).

[0065] If the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 at block 508 determines that the vehicle speed does not exceed the vehicle speed threshold, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs, and / or otherwise causes the clutch 212 to move to the disengaged position 302 (e.g., an open position) to enable the fluid coupling 210 (block 510). For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines or identifies that the detected condition(s) and / or parameter(s) provided by the vehicle condition circuit 402 could cause a breakaway torque and commands, instructs, or otherwise causes the solenoid 254 to move to the first position to disengage / open the clutch 212.In the disengaged position, the clutch 212 engages the fluid coupling 210 to allow slippage between the output shaft 214 and the drive shaft 216.

[0066] In block 512, the motor speed determiner circuit 408 determines and / or maintains a motor speed of the electric motor 202 that is greater than a motor speed threshold. In some examples, the motor speed threshold is a predetermined motor speed value based on the power characteristics of the electric motor 202. In some examples, the motor speed determiner circuit 408 and / or the MCU 262 employ closed-loop speed control to control a motor speed of the electric motor 202 based on the motor speed threshold (e.g., to maintain a threshold motor speed or higher). For example, the motor speed threshold may be 500 RPM. In some examples, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 maintains a motor speed that is at least equal to or greater than the motor speed threshold.In some examples, the motor speed threshold can be dynamically determined by the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406. For example, a motor speed threshold can be a minimum motor speed required to achieve the full torque capability of the electric motor 202. For example, the motor speed threshold can be determined based on the vehicle speed of the electric vehicle 100 determined by the vehicle speed detection circuit 418 and / or a torque command determined by the torque command circuit 420. In some examples, the motor speed threshold can be determined from a lookup table, such as the correlation values ​​428. In some examples, the motor speed determiner circuit 408 commands the MCU 262 to operate the electric motor 202 at the determined motor speed. In some examples, the motor speed determiner circuit 408 (e.g.,(by bypassing the MCU 262) the motor speed of the electric motor 202.

[0067] In block 514, the brake modulation circuit 410 determines whether brake modulation should be enabled. For example, the brake modulation circuit 410 determines whether brake modulation is needed to control the vehicle speed in response to the engine speed being maintained at the engine speed threshold (e.g., when the vehicle is stationary or traveling at low speeds (e.g., less than 5 mph)). In particular, the brake modulation circuit 410 determines whether the vehicle condition provided by the vehicle condition circuit 402 specifies a terrain condition and / or terrain mode. For example, brake modulation may be required during a terrain condition and may not be required during a non-terrain condition.

[0068] If the brake modulation circuit 410 at block 514 determines that brake modulation is required, the brake modulation circuit 410 commands, instructs, and / or otherwise causes the vehicle brake actuator 430 to modulate friction braking of the wheels 220 to control vehicle speed and / or counteract creep torque generated by the fluid coupling 210 (block 516). If the brake modulation circuit 410 at block 514 determines that no brake modulation is required, the process returns to block 502.

[0069] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart that represents exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 600 that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by an exemplary programmable circuit to monitor vehicle conditions of the electric vehicle 100. The exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 600 from Fig. The circuit begins at block 602, where the vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors and / or determines whether a trailer towing mode is detected. For example, to determine a towing mode or towing condition, the towing mode detection circuit 412 determines whether trailer lights are connected to the electric vehicle 100, whether a user input specifies a towing mode, and / or whether image recognition specifies a towing condition. If a trailer mode is detected at block 602, a breakaway torque condition is detected (block 608). If no trailer mode is detected at block 602, then no breakaway torque condition is detected (block 610).

[0070] If no towing mode is detected at block 602, the vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors for a terrain condition and / or determines whether a terrain mode is detected (block 604). For example, to determine a terrain mode or terrain condition, the terrain mode detection circuit 414 determines whether a user input specifies a terrain mode and / or image recognition specifies a terrain condition. If a terrain mode is detected at block 604, a breakaway torque condition is detected (block 608). If no terrain mode is detected at block 604, no breakaway torque condition is detected (block 610).

[0071] If no terrain mode or terrain condition is detected at block 604, the vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors and / or determines whether a detected gradient exceeds a gradient threshold (block 606). For example, the gradient detection circuit 416 receives, retrieves, or otherwise obtains signals (e.g., feedback signals) from an accelerometer of the electric vehicle 100. The gradient detection circuit 416 compares the detected or measured gradient to a gradient threshold to determine whether the gradient exceeds the threshold. For example, the gradient threshold might be a predetermined value of approximately 20 degrees, 30 degrees, etc., relative to the horizontal. If a gradient threshold is detected at block 606, a breakaway torque condition is detected (block 608).If no slope threshold value is detected at block 606, no breakaway torque condition is detected (block 610).

[0072] Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart that represents exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 700 that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by an exemplary programmable circuit to detect breakaway torque conditions of the electric vehicle 100. The flowchart from Fig. 7 can be used, for example, to detect a motor stall condition of the exemplary electric motor 202. The exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or the exemplary operations 700 from Fig. The 7th section begins at block 702, where the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors and / or determines the motor speed of the electric motor 202. The motor speed detection circuit 422 detects, obtains, and / or otherwise determines the motor speed of the electric motor 202 and / or retrieves it.

[0073] The breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 determines whether the motor speed exceeds a motor speed threshold (block 704). For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 uses a comparator to determine whether the motor speed exceeds a motor speed threshold.

[0074] If the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 at block 704 determines that the motor speed provided by the motor speed detection circuit 422 does not exceed the motor speed threshold, the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 determines a potential breakaway torque condition and activates the breakaway torque prevention monitoring mode (block 706).

[0075] The breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 then detects a torque command (block 708). For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 receives a torque command from the torque command circuit 420, which monitors and / or retrieves a torque command from the MCU 262 and / or one or more other sensors 260, and / or obtains it otherwise.

[0076] In block 710, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines whether the torque command exceeds a torque threshold. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 uses a comparator to compare the torque command and the torque threshold. In some examples, the torque threshold is a predetermined value (e.g., 100 newton meters (Nm), 440 Nm, 560 Nm, etc.). In other examples, the torque threshold is determined from a lookup table and / or the correlation values ​​428. Fig. 4. For example, the torque threshold can be based on or related to the detected motor speed (e.g., dependent on it). Thus, the torque threshold can be predetermined and / or dynamically determined during operation of the electric vehicle 100.

[0077] If the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 at block 710 determines that the torque command exceeds the torque threshold, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs, and / or otherwise causes the clutch 212 to move into the disengaged position 302 (e.g., an open position) to enable the fluid coupling 210 (block 712). For example, if the vehicle condition circuit 402 at block 704 detects that the engine speed is zero, and the torque command at block 708 is 100 Nm, then the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 detects a breakaway torque condition and causes the clutch 212 to disengage from the front cover 230 to enable fluid coupling between the output shaft 214 and the input shaft 216 via the fluid coupling 210. The process returns to block 702.

[0078] If the engine speed exceeds the engine speed threshold at block 704, or if the torque command does not exceed the torque threshold at block 710, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 does not identify a breakaway torque condition and commands, instructs, and / or otherwise causes the clutch 212 to move into the engaged position 304 to bypass the fluid clutch 210 (block 714).

[0079] Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart that represents exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 800 that can be executed, instantiated, and / or performed by an exemplary programmable circuit to detect breakaway torque conditions of the electric vehicle 100. The flowchart from Fig. 8 can be used, for example, to detect an inverter fault condition of the inverter of the exemplary electric motor 202. The exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or the exemplary operations 800 from Fig. Section 8 begins at block 802, where the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402 monitors and / or determines an inverter phase current. The inverter phase current detection circuit 426 detects, obtains, and / or otherwise determines an inverter phase current from the MCU 262 and / or the electric motor 202 and / or retrieves it from them.

[0080] The breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 determines whether the inverter phase current exceeds a current threshold (block 804). For example, the breakaway torque prevention circuit 404 uses a comparator to determine whether the inverter phase current exceeds the current threshold.

[0081] If the inverter phase current exceeds the current threshold at block 804, then the breakaway torque prevention switching circuit 404 determines that a breakaway torque condition is detected and switches on the breakaway torque prevention mode (block 806).

[0082] The breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 then detects a motor speed (block 808). For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 receives a motor speed from the motor speed detection circuit 422 and / or obtains it by other means.

[0083] In block 810, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 determines whether the motor speed exceeds a motor speed threshold. For example, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 uses a comparator to compare the motor speed and the motor speed threshold.

[0084] If the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 at block 810 determines that the motor speed does not exceed the motor speed threshold, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs, and / or otherwise causes the clutch 212 to move to the disengaged position 302 (e.g., an open position) to enable the fluid coupling 210 (block 812). The process then returns to block 802.

[0085] If the inverter phase current at block 804 does not exceed the current threshold or if the motor speed at block 810 exceeds the motor speed threshold, the breakaway torque identifier circuit 406 commands, instructs and / or otherwise causes the coupling 212 to move into the engaged position to bypass the fluid coupling 210 (block 814).

[0086] The preceding examples of machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 500-800 can be used by the breakaway torque prevention circuit 220 to implement breakaway torque prevention systems. Although each of the preceding exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or exemplary operations 500-800 has certain features, it is understood that it is not necessary for a specific feature of an example to be used exclusively with that example. Instead, any of the features described above and / or illustrated in the drawings can be combined with any of the examples, in addition to or instead of any of the other features of these examples. Features of one example do not mutually exclude features of another example. Instead, the scope of this disclosure includes any combination of any of the features.

[0087] Fig. Figure 9 is a block diagram of an exemplary programmable circuit platform 900, structured to show the exemplary machine-readable instructions and / or the exemplary operations from Fig. 5-8 to execute and / or instantiate the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240 from the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4. The programmable circuit platform 900 can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a workstation computer, a self-learning machine (e.g., a neural network), a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet), another wearable device, or any other type of computing device and / or electronic device.

[0088] The programmable circuit platform 900 of the illustrated example includes a programmable circuit 912. The programmable circuit 912 of the illustrated example is hardware. For example, the programmable circuit 912 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, CPUs, GPUs, DSPs, and / or microcontrollers from any desired family or manufacturer. The programmable circuit 912 can be implemented by one or more semiconductor-based (e.g., silicon-based) devices.In this example, the programmable circuit 912 implements the exemplary breakaway torque prevention circuit 240, the exemplary vehicle condition circuit 402, the exemplary breakaway torque prevention activation circuit 404, the exemplary breakaway torque identifier circuit 406, the exemplary motor speed determiner circuit 408, the exemplary brake modulation circuit 410, the exemplary towing mode detection circuit 412, the exemplary terrain detection circuit 414, the exemplary gradient detection circuit 416, the exemplary vehicle speed detection circuit 418, the exemplary torque command circuit 420, the exemplary motor speed detection circuit 422, the exemplary motor torque determiner circuit 424 and / or the exemplary inverter phase current detection circuit 426.

[0089] The programmable circuit 912 of the illustrated example includes a local memory 913 (e.g., a cache, registers, etc.). The programmable circuit 912 of the illustrated example communicates via a bus 918 with a main memory 914, 916, which includes a volatile memory 914 and a non-volatile memory 916. The volatile memory 914 can be implemented as synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), dynamic RAMBUS® random-access memory (RDRAM®), and / or any other type of RAM device. The non-volatile memory 916 can be implemented as flash memory and / or any other desired type of storage device. Access to the main memory 914, 916 of the illustrated example is controlled by a memory controller 917.In some examples, the memory control 917 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microcontrollers from any desired family or manufacturer, or any other type of circuit to handle the data flow to and from the main memory 914, 916.

[0090] The programmable circuit platform 900 of the illustrated example also includes an interface circuit 920. The interface circuit 920 can be implemented by hardware according to any type of interface, such as an Ethernet interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a Bluetooth® interface, a near field communication (NFC) interface, a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) interface and / or a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) interface.

[0091] In the illustrated example, one or more input devices 922 are connected to the interface circuit 920. The input device(s) 922 enable(s) a user (e.g., a human user, a machine user, etc.) to input data and / or commands into the programmable circuit 912. The input device(s) 922 can be implemented, for example, by an audio sensor, a microphone, a camera (photo or video), a keyboard, a button, a mouse, a touchscreen, a trackpad, a trackball, an isopoint device, and / or a speech recognition system.

[0092] One or more output devices 924 are also connected to the interface circuit 920 from the illustrated example. The output device(s) 924 can be implemented, for example, as display devices (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), an in-place switching display (IPS), a touchscreen, etc.), a tactile output device, and / or a loudspeaker. The interface circuit 920 of the illustrated example therefore includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or a graphics driver processor circuit, such as a GPU.

[0093] The interface circuit 920 of the illustrated example also includes a communication device, such as a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, a modem, a home gateway, a wireless access point, and / or a network interface, to support data exchange with external machines (e.g., computing devices of any kind) via a network 926. Communication can be established, for example, via an Ethernet connection, a connection to a digital subscriber line (DSL), a telephone line connection, a coaxial cable system, a satellite system, a non-line-of-sight wireless system, a line-of-sight wireless system, a mobile phone system, an optical link, etc.

[0094] The programmable circuit platform 900 of the illustrated example also includes one or more mass storage disks or devices 928 for storing firmware, software, and / or data. Examples of such mass storage disks or devices 928 include magnetic storage devices (e.g., floppy disks, drives, HDDs, etc.), optical storage devices (e.g., Blu-ray discs, CDs, DVDs, etc.), RAID systems, and / or semiconductor storage disks or devices, such as flash memory devices and / or SSDs.

[0095] The machine-readable instructions 932, which are provided by the machine-readable instructions of the Fig. 5-8 can be implemented, can be stored in the mass storage device 928, in the volatile memory 914, in the non-volatile memory 916 and / or on at least one durable computer-readable storage medium, such as a CD or DVD, which may be removable.

[0096] "Containing" and "comprising" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open expressions. Thus, when any form of "containing" or "comprising" (e.g., encompassing, including, comprising, featuring, etc.) is used in a patent claim as a preamble or within a mention of any type of patent claim, it is understood that additional elements, expressions, etc., may be present without being outside the scope of the relevant patent claim or mention. As used herein, the phrase "at least," when used, for example, as a transitional phrase in a preamble of a patent claim, is just as open as the expressions "comprising" and "containing."The expression "and / or," when used, for example, in a form such as A, B and / or C, denotes any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A with B, (5) A with C, and (6) B with C, or (7) A with B and with C. As used in this writing in the context of describing constructions, components, elements, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to implementations that include any one of the following: (1) at least one of A, (2) at least one of B, or (3) at least one of A and at least one of B.Likewise, the phrase "at least one of A or B," as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, elements, objects, and / or things, shall refer to implementations that include any one of the following: (1) at least one of A, (2) at least one of B, or (3) at least one of A and at least one of B. As used in this document in the context of describing the implementation or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, etc., the phrase "at least one of A and B" shall refer to implementations that include any one of the following: (1) at least one of A, (2) at least one of B, or (3) at least one of A and at least one of B. Likewise, the phrase "at least one of A or B," as used in this document in the context of describing the implementation or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, etc.used, referring to transformations that include any one of the following: (1) at least one of A, (2) at least one of B, or (3) at least one of A and at least one of B.

[0097] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "a," "first," "second," etc.) do not preclude a plurality. The expression "a" object, as used herein, refers to one or more of these objects. The expressions "a," "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed individually, a plurality of means, elements, or actions may be implemented, e.g., by the same entity or object. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these may possibly be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that a combination of features is not possible and / or advantageous.

[0098] As used herein, the term "above," unless otherwise specified, describes the relationship of two parts to the ground. A first part is above a second part if the second part has at least one part between the ground and the first part. Likewise, in the sense used herein, a first part is "below" a second part if the first part is closer to the ground than the second part. As noted above, a first part may be above or below a second part, with one or more of the following elements present: other parts in between, no other parts in between, the first and second parts touching, or without the first and second parts being in direct contact with each other.

[0099] As used in this patent specification, the statement that any part (e.g., a layer, a film, an area, a region, or a plate) is located on another part in any way (e.g., positioned, lying on, arranged on, or formed on, etc.) means that the part referred to is either in contact with the other part or that the part referred to is located above the other part with one or more intermediate part(s) in between.

[0100] As used herein, connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) may include intermediate elements between the elements to which the connection reference refers and / or relative movement between those elements, unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, connection references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and / or in a fixed relationship to one another. In the sense used herein, the statement that any one part is in "contact" with another part is defined as meaning that there is no intermediate element between the two parts.

[0101] Unless expressly stated otherwise, descriptors such as "first," "second," "third," etc., are used herein without implying or otherwise indicating any significance of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or order. They are used merely as designations and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements for a better understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" may be used in the detailed description to refer to an element, while the same element may be referred to in a claim by a different descriptor such as "second" or "third." In such cases, it is understood that such descriptors serve only to uniquely identify, within the context of the discussion (e.g., within a claim), the elements that might otherwise have the same name.

[0102] In this context, "approximately" and "about" modify their subjects / values ​​to acknowledge the potential presence of variations that occur in real-world applications. For example, "approximately" and "about" may modify dimensions that, due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world imperfections, as would be apparent to the average person skilled in the art, cannot be exact. For example, "approximately" and "about" may indicate that such dimensions may fall within a tolerance range of + / -10%, unless otherwise stated herein.

[0103] As used herein, “essentially real-time” refers to occurrence in a near-instantaneous manner, recognizing that there may be real delays for processing time, transmission, etc. Thus, unless otherwise specified, “essentially real-time” refers to real-time + 1 second.

[0104] As used herein, the term “in communication”, including variations thereof, includes direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediary components and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but rather additionally includes selective communication at periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, aperiodic intervals and / or at one-off events.

[0105] For the purposes of this definition, a “programmable circuit” is defined as comprising: (i) one or more specialized electrical circuits (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) designed to perform a specific operation and incorporating one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors); and / or (ii) one or more general-purpose electrical circuits programmable with instructions to perform a specific function and / or operation and incorporating one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors). Examples of programmable circuits include programmable microprocessors, such as central processing units (CPUs).that can execute first instructions to perform one or more operations and / or functions, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) that can be programmed with second instructions to effect a configuration and / or construction of the FPGAs so that they instantiate one or more operations and / or functions corresponding to the first instructions, graphics processing units (GPUs) that can execute first instructions to perform one or more operations and / or functions, digital signal processors (DSPs) that can execute first instructions to perform one or more operations and / or functions, XPUs, network processing units (NPUs), one or more microcontrollers that can execute first instructions to perform one or more operations and / or functions, and / or integrated circuits,such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). For example, an XPU can be implemented by a heterogeneous computing system that includes several types of programmable circuitry (e.g., one or more FPGAs, one or more CPUs, one or more GPUs, one or more NPUs, one or more DSPs, etc., and / or any combination thereof) and orchestration technology (e.g., application programming interface(s) - API(s)) that can assign computational task(s) to the one or more types of programmable circuitry that are suitable and available to perform the computational task(s).

[0106] In this context, an integrated circuit is defined as one or more semiconductor devices containing one or more circuit elements, such as transistors, capacitors, inductors, resistors, current paths, diodes, etc. For example, an integrated circuit can be implemented as one or more ASICs, FPGAs, chips, microchips, programmable circuits, semiconductor substrates coupling multiple circuit elements, systems-on-chips (SoCs), etc.

[0107] From the foregoing, it is understood that exemplary systems, devices, manufactured articles, and processes have been disclosed that enable the detection and / or prevention of breakaway torque conditions associated with electric motors and / or electric vehicles. Further examples and combinations thereof include the following: Example 1 includes a device comprising an electric motor having an output shaft, a drive shaft for driving one or more wheels of a vehicle, a fluid torque converter for operatively coupling the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft, and a clutch movable between an engaged and a disengaged position. The clutch serves to fluidly couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the disengaged position. The clutch serves to allow the electric motor to bypass the fluid torque converter in order to mechanically couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the engaged position. Example 2 includes the arrangement according to Example 1, wherein the clutch serves to allow slippage between the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the disengaged position, and wherein the clutch serves to prevent slippage between the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft when the clutch is in the engaged position. Example 3 includes the arrangement according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the clutch serves to enable the output shaft of the electric motor to rotate at a first speed which differs from a second speed of the drive shaft when the clutch is in the disengaged position, wherein the clutch serves to enable the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft to rotate at the same speed when the clutch is in the engaged position. Example 4 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-3, further including a gearbox coupled between the output shaft of the electric motor and the fluid torque converter. Example 5 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-4, further including a gearbox coupled between the fluid torque converter and the drive shaft. Example 6 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-5, wherein the fluid torque converter is a hydraulic torque converter. Example 7 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-6, wherein the fluid torque converter includes a turbine wheel and a pump wheel, wherein the pump wheel is coupled to the output shaft of the electric motor and the turbine wheel is coupled to the drive shaft. Example 8 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-7, wherein the coupling is slidably coupled to the turbine wheel. Example 9 includes the apparatus according to one of Examples 1-7, further comprising a valve fluidically coupled to the coupling, wherein the valve is movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the valve serves to cause the coupling to move into the engaged position in order to mechanically couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft, wherein in the second position the valve serves to cause the coupling to move into the disengaged position in order to fluidly couple the output shaft of the electric motor and the drive shaft. Example 10 includes the apparatus according to one of Examples 1-8, further including a control to cause the valve to move to the second position in response to the detection of a breakaway torque condition of the vehicle and the determination that a vehicle speed does not exceed a vehicle speed threshold. Example 11 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-9, wherein the control is used to move the coupling into an open position in response to the detection of a breakaway torque condition and the determination that the motor speed of the electric motor does not exceed a motor speed threshold, in order to fluidically couple the output shaft and the input shaft. Example 12 includes the setup according to one of Examples 1-10, further including a control to cause the valve to move to the second position in response to the detection of a breakaway torque condition, and to operate the electric motor at least at a minimum motor speed threshold. Example 13 includes a device that provides interface circuitry, machine-readable instructions, and programmable circuitry to instantiate or execute the machine-readable instructions for: enabling a breakaway torque prevention mode based on a detected vehicle condition; comparing a vehicle speed to a vehicle speed threshold; in response to the vehicle speed not exceeding the vehicle speed threshold, causing a fluid torque converter lockout clutch to move to an open position; and maintaining an electric motor speed greater than a motor speed threshold. Example 14 includes the setup according to Example 13, wherein the programmable circuit is used to activate the breakaway torque prevention mode if the detected vehicle condition is a terrain condition. Example 15 includes the setup according to Example 13 or 14, wherein the programmable circuit serves for at least one of instantiating or executing the machine-readable instructions to modulate friction brakes of vehicle wheels in response to determining that the detected vehicle condition is in a terrain mode. Example 16 includes the setup according to one of Examples 13-15, wherein the programmable circuit is used to cause the fluid torque converter lockout clutch to move into a closed position in response to the determination that the vehicle speed exceeds the vehicle speed threshold. Example 17 includes at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium containing machine-readable instructions to cause at least one processor circuit to: monitor a vehicle condition; activate a breakaway torque prevention mode if a detected vehicle condition includes a breakaway torque condition; compare a vehicle speed and a vehicle speed threshold after activation of the breakaway torque prevention mode; in response to the vehicle speed not exceeding the vehicle speed threshold: cause a fluid torque converter lockout clutch to move to an open position; and maintain an electric motor speed greater than a motor speed threshold. Example 18 includes the at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium according to Example 17, wherein the machine-readable instructions are used to initiate a modulation of friction brakes of vehicle wheels in response to the determination that the vehicle condition is a terrain condition. Example 19 includes the at least one non-transient machine-readable medium according to Example 17 or 18, wherein the machine-readable instructions are designed to cause the fluid torque converter lockout clutch to move into a closed position in response to the determination that the vehicle speed exceeds the vehicle speed threshold. Example 20 includes the at least one non-transitory machine-readable medium according to one of Examples 17-19, wherein the machine-readable instructions are designed to cause the fluid torque converter locking clutch to move into a closed position in response to the determination that the vehicle condition is not a breakaway torque condition.

[0108] The following patent claims are hereby incorporated into this detailed description by reference. Although certain exemplary systems, devices, manufactured products, and processes are disclosed herein, the scope of protection of this patent is not limited to them. On the contrary, this patent specification covers all systems, devices, manufactured products, and processes that legally fall within the scope of the patent claims of this patent specification.

Claims

[1] Facility comprising the following: an electric motor (202) having an output shaft (214); a drive shaft (216) to drive one or more wheels (220) of a vehicle; a fluid torque converter to couple the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216); and a clutch (212) that is movable between an engaged position (304) and a disengaged position (302), wherein the clutch (212) serves to fluidically couple the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216) when the clutch (212) is in the disengaged position (302), wherein the clutch (212) serves to enable the electric motor (202) to bypass the fluid torque converter in order to mechanically couple the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216) when the clutch (212) is in the engaged position (304). [2] Device according to claim 1, wherein the clutch (212) serves to allow slippage between the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216) when the clutch (212) is in the disengaged position (302), wherein the clutch (212) serves to prevent slippage between the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216) when the clutch (212) is in the engaged position (304). [3] Device according to one of claims 1-2, wherein the clutch (212) serves to enable the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) to rotate at a first speed which differs from a second speed of the drive shaft (216) when the clutch (212) is in the disengaged position (302), wherein the clutch (212) serves to enable the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the drive shaft (216) to rotate at the same speed when the clutch (212) is in the engaged position (304). [4] Device according to one of claims 1-3, further comprising a gearbox (218) coupled between the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the fluid torque converter. [5] Device according to one of claims 1-4, further comprising a gearbox (218) coupled between the fluid torque converter and the drive shaft (216). [6] Device according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the fluid torque converter is a hydraulic torque converter. [7] Device according to one of claims 1-6, wherein the fluid torque converter includes a turbine wheel (226) and a pump wheel (222), wherein the pump wheel (222) is coupled to the output shaft (214) of the electric motor (202) and the turbine wheel (226) is coupled to the drive shaft (216). [8] Device according to claim 7, wherein the coupling (212) is slidably coupled to the turbine wheel (226). [9] Device according to claim 8, further comprising a valve (250, 252) which is fluidically coupled to the coupling (212), wherein the valve (250, 252) is movable between a first position and a second position; wherein in the first position the valve (250, 252) serves to cause the clutch (212) to move into the engaged position (304) in order to mechanically couple the output shaft (214) of the electric motor and the drive shaft (216); and wherein in the second position the valve (250, 252) serves to cause the clutch (212) to move into the disengaged position (302) in order to fluidly couple the output shaft (214) of the electric motor and the drive shaft (216). [10] Device according to claim 9, further comprising a control to cause the valve (250, 252) to move to the second position in response to the detection of a breakaway torque condition of the vehicle and the determination that a vehicle speed does not exceed a vehicle speed threshold. [11] Device according to claim 9, further comprising a control to cause the valve (250, 252) to move to the second position in response to the detection of a breakaway torque condition, and to operate the electric motor (202) at least at a minimum motor speed threshold. [12] Device according to claim 10, wherein the breakaway torque condition of the vehicle includes at least one of a towing mode, an off-road mode, a stalling of the electric motor (202), an increased gradient or an inverter condition. [13] Device according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising: an interface circuit (920); machine-readable instructions (932); and a programmable circuit (912) for at least one of instantiating or executing the machine-readable instructions (932) to: Activation of a breakaway torque prevention mode based on a detected vehicle condition; Comparing a vehicle speed and a vehicle speed threshold; in response to the fact that the vehicle speed does not exceed the vehicle speed threshold: Causing the clutch (212) of the fluid torque converter to move into the disengaged position; and Maintaining an electric motor speed (202) greater than a motor speed threshold. [14] Device according to claim 13, wherein the programmable circuit (912) serves to activate the breakaway torque prevention mode if the detected vehicle condition is a terrain condition, or Alternatively, the programmable circuit (912) serves for at least one of instantiating or executing the machine-readable instructions (932) to modulate friction brakes of vehicle wheels (220) in response to determining that the detected vehicle condition is in an off-road mode, or Alternatively, the programmable circuit (912) serves to cause the clutch (212) of the fluid torque converter to move into the engaged position in response to the determination that the vehicle speed exceeds the vehicle speed threshold. [15] Computer program which, when executed, causes at least one processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 9-14.

Images