A system and method for power assist thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a system (200) and a method (300) for power assist in a vehicle (100). The system (200) comprises a processor (202), an integrated starter generator (210). The integrated starter generator is operatively coupled with a crankshaft of an engine (150) of the vehicle (100). The integrated starter generator (210) is adapted for one or more operative modes responsive to one or more inputs received by the processor (202). The one or more operative modes are functional when one or more pre-defined conditions are met. The method (300) comprises steps of sensing (310) one or more first inputs pertaining to a plurality of parameters, processing (320) the one or more first inputs, actuating (330) a second motor mode to provide a torque assist and providing (340) the torque assist by the processor (202). The present disclosure provides various advantages of enhancing engine performance without altering the layout.

Description

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWER ASSIST THEREOFTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present subject matter generally relates to a system and method for power assist in a vehicle thereof.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional vehicles rely on separate starter motors and generators to perform distinct functions. The starter motor is responsible for cranking the engine to start the vehicle, while the generator produces electricity to power the vehicle's electrical systems. These separate components contribute to increased complexity, weight, and energy losses in the vehicle's electrical system.

[0003] In some conventional vehicles, Integrated starter generator (ISG) is incorporated. (ISG) is an electrical machine that combines the functions of a starter motor and an alternator in a single unit. It is used in mild hybrid vehicles to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. In other conventional vehicles, technologies like Variable valve timing, Dual stage Variable valve timing, Variable Compression Ratio, Variable induction system and like are used to enhance engine performance. Variable valve timing (VVT) is atechnology used in internal combustion engines to optimize engine performance and efficiency. It works by altering the timing of when the intake and exhaust valves open and close. Dual Variable Valve Timing, is an advanced engine technology that independently controls the timing of both the intake and exhaust valves. Variable compression ratio (VCR) is a technology that allows the compression ratio of an internal combustion engine to be adjusted while the engine is in operation. Variable induction system (VIS) is an engine technology that changes the length of the intake manifold to optimize power and torque across the engine's operating range.

[0004] However, there are drawbacks associated with above mentioned technologies such as increased complexity and cost. VVT systems introduceadditional components and mechanisms to the engine, making them more complex and expensive to manufacture and maintain. This can increase the overall cost of the vehicle. VVT systems rely on precise control of various components, such as actuators, solenoids, and sensors. If any of these components malfunction, it can lead to engine performance issues, increased emissions, or even engine damage. VVT systems often utilize hydraulic or electromagnetic actuators that rely on clean oil for proper operation. Neglecting regular oil changes or using low-quality oil can lead to sludge buildup and premature wear of VVT components. Many modem engines with VVT are interference engines, meaning that if the timing belt or chain breaks, the valves can collide with the pistons, causing severe engine damage. Some WT systems may produce noticeable noise or vibration, particularly during certain engine operating conditions.

[0005] Other drawbacks such as the mechanisms used to change the compression ratio in VCR engines may be subject to wear and tear, which could affect the durability of the engine. VCR technology may require significant changes to engine designs, which could delay its manufacturing by manufacturers. Some drawbacks associated with VIS are Limited range of adjustment. VIS systems can only vary the length of the intake manifold by a limited amount. This can limit their effectiveness at some engine speeds. VIS systems can sometimes reduce throttle response, as the change in intake manifold length can take a few moments to take effect. VIS systems can sometimes increase engine noise, as the change in intake manifold length can cause the intake air to make a buzzing or humming sound. VIS systems can require more maintenance than traditional intake manifolds, as the moving parts need to be regularly inspected and lubricated.

[0006] Thus, there arises a need for a system and method to for power assist in a vehicle which can overcome above mentioned disadvantages.

[0007] Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, throughcomparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.SUMMARY

[0008] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0009] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present disclosure provides a system for power assist in a vehicle. The system comprises a processor, an integrated starter generator. The integrated starter generator is operatively coupled with a crankshaft of an engine of the vehicle. A first end of the crankshaft is provided with a transmission assembly. A second end of the crankshaft is provided with the integrated starter generator. The integrated starter generator is adapted for one or more operative modes responsive to one or more inputs received by the processor. The one or more operative modes are functional when one or more pre-defined conditions for the one or more operative modes are met.

[0010] According to embodiments illustrated herein, the present disclosure provides a method for power assist in a vehicle during a running condition of the vehicle. The method comprises various steps. A first step is to sense one or more first inputs pertaining to a plurality of parameters by a plurality of sensors. Second step is to process the one or more first inputs of the plurality of parameters by a processor. Third step is to actuate a second motor mode to provide a torque assist responsive to the one or more first inputs pertaining to the plurality of parameters by the processor. Last step is to provide the torque assist, upon the one or more first inputs meeting a first set of pre-defined conditions and a second set of pre-defined conditions by the processor.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention.

[0012] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures, which is related to a vehicle which is a two-wheeled vehicle being one embodiment of the present subject matter. However, the present subject matter is not limited to the depicted embodiment(s). In the figures, the same or similar numbers are used throughout to reference features and components.

[0013] Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0014] Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of power assist function, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0015] Fig. 3 illustrates a flowchart to explain various steps of method to provide power assist, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The present disclosure may be best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to the figures are simply for explanatory purposes as the methods and systems may extend beyond the described embodiments. For example, the teachings presented and the needs of a particular application may yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detaildescribed herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown.

[0017] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts . While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

[0018] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0019] The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with different embodiments. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather those embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0020] The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

[0021] Various features and embodiments of the present subject matter here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder. It is contemplated that the concepts of the present subject matter may be applied to any kind of vehicle within the spirit and scope of this subject matter. The detailed explanation of the constitution of parts other than the present subject matter which constitutes an essential part has been omitted at suitable places.

[0022] It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method for power assist in a vehicle which is simple and cost effective. It is an object of the present invention to have a system and method for power assist in the vehicle where no additional components and mechanisms to the engine is added and thus aims to provide a simple and cost effective way of providing power assist in the vehicle. It is also an object to provide ease in manufacturing and maintenance. It is also an object to provide better durability of the engine without additional components and cost. It is also an object to enhance engine performance without altering the layout and thus prevents delay in manufacturing. It is also an object to comply with Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency / Economy (CAFE) norms.

[0023] The present subject matter along with all the accompanying embodiments and their other advantages would be described in greater detail in conjunction with the figures in the following paragraphs.

[0024] The present subject matter is further described with reference to accompanying figures. It should be noted that the description and figures merely illustrate principles of the present subject matter. Various arrangements may be devised that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, encompass the principles of the present subject matter. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and examples of the present subject matter, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.

[0025] The present subject matter may be implemented in any two-wheeled, three-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicle. However, for the purpose ofexplanation and by no limitation, the present invention, and corresponding additional advantages and features are described through the following embodiments depicting a two wheeled vehicle.

[0026] In an embodiment, the vehicle may be a bike cum scooter type vehicle and may have main frame that extends along the center of the body of the vehicle from a front portion of the vehicle and extending in a rearwardly direction.

[0027] In an embodiment, the vehicle may be a two-wheeled vehicle and may have main frame that extends along the center of the body of the vehicle from a front portion of the vehicle and extending in a rearwardly direction.

[0028] In an embodiment, the vehicle (100) comprises a frame assembly when viewed from a front (F) to rear (R) direction of the vehicle (100). The frame assembly comprises a headtube and a pair of upper tubes extending from the headtube from both the left and right sides. A pair of intermediate tube extends downwardly from the head tube in the front portion (F) of the vehicle (100). A pair of front suspension is mounted in the front portion (F) of the vehicle (100) connecting a front rotating member of the vehicle.

[0029] The vehicle (100) is configured to move through the front rotating member and a rear rotating member. The pair of intermediate tube joins to a front portion of a pair of down tubes on both the left and right side of the vehicle (100). The pair of upper tubes extends rearwardly backward from the head tube, and the pair of upper tubes terminating at a pair of central tubes. The pair of central tubes is configured to be joined at a rear portion of the pair of down tubes. The pair of central tubes is also configured to have mounting provisions of a centre stand.

[0030] The vehicle (100) includes a cushion member (120) being disposed at the rear end of the vehicle (100), and the seat is mounted on a pair of seat rails of the frame assembly. The pair of seat rails have a trellis internal feature created by one or more connecting tubes. This structure provides strength andrigidity to the overall frame assembly of the vehicle (100). The vehicle (100) is configured to have a shock absorber being disposed in the rear portion of the vehicle for absorbing impacts from the road. Further a transmission system for transmitting power to a rear rotating member (herein referred as drive wheel) is disposed in the rear portion of the vehicle (100). In one embodiment, the vehicle (100) is a two-wheeled and a three-wheeled vehicle.

[0031] Fig. 1 illustrates a side view of a vehicle (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 1 further illustrates parts and components of the vehicle (100). A front- rear axis has been shown by F-R directional line. The front region of the vehicle (100) illustrate one or more illuminating sources. The illuminating sources herein may include a headlamp (130) to provide illumination on road to rider as well as nearby riders. A front rotating member (104a) and rear rotating member (104b) has also been shown. The cushion member (120) to provide sitting place to rider has been depicted. Fuel tank (110) to store fuel has also been shown. The power source herein referred to engine (150) is also depicted in Fig. 1. For ease of handling, handle bar (105) has been shown.

[0032] Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram (200) of power assist function, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Fig. 2 further illustrates power assist function overview. Fig. 2 clearly illustrates a first one or more pre defined conditions include a first set of pre defined conditions to enter the torque assist (shown as assist entry condition), and a second set of pre defined conditions to enable the torque assist (shown as assist enable condition). Fig. 2 also illustrates that both the first set of pre defined conditions and the second set of pre defined conditions are met to actuate the torque assist for a pre-defined duration. AND function in between the two set of conditions here specify that power assist will operate once both the set of conditions are fulfilled. Fig. 2 also illustrates the first set of pre defined conditions includes first inputs from a plurality of parameters, herein the plurality of parameters include, a clutch status, an engine speed, a vehicle speed, a gear position, and abatery voltage. The plurality of parameters also include enable / disable power assist via vehicle ride mode, enable / disable automatic power assist via calibration and enable / disable automatic power assist by user via cluster. Fig. 2 further illustrates the second set of pre defined conditions include second inputs from one or more parameters, herein the one or more parameters includes a gear position, an engine speed, a throtle position, a throtle position difference, an engine temperature, and a clutch switch.

[0033] Fig. 3 illustrates a flowchart to explain various steps of method (300) to provide power assist, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject mater. The method (300) as shown comprising various steps. First step (310) is to sense one or more first inputs pertaining to a plurality of parameters by a plurality of sensors (250). Second step (320) is to process the one or more first inputs of the plurality of parameters by a processor (202). Third step (330) is to actuate a second motor mode to provide a torque assist responsive to the one or more first inputs pertaining to the plurality of parameters by the processor (202). Last step (340) is to provide the torque assist, upon the one or more first inputs meeting a first set of pre-defined conditions and a second set of predefined conditions by the processor (202).

[0034] In an embodiment, the transmission assembly transmits power from the crankshaft of the engine (150) to a drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

[0035] In an embodiment, the one or more operative modes are a motor mode at a start condition of the vehicle (100), a generator mode during running of the vehicle (100), and a second motor mode during a running condition of the vehicle (100). In a working example, the integrated starter generator acts as a motor to provide torque to crank the engine at the start of the vehicle. Further, during running of the vehicle, integrated starter generator acts as a generator and charges batery by converting energy from engine. During running condition, as and when required, integrated starter generator will again act as a motor and provide additional torque to the engine.

[0036] In an embodiment, the second motor mode includes providing a torque assist to the crankshaft to increase power transmitted to the drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

[0037] In an embodiment, the one or more operative modes are selected by the processor (202) responsive to the one or more inputs received by the processor (202).

[0038] In an embodiment, the integrated starter generator (210) being configured to operate in the second motor mode subsequent to the start condition of the vehicle (100).

[0039] In an embodiment, to enter the second motor mode the one or more inputs are at least one of a gesture detection, a tactile detection or a pressure detection. In a working example, to enter the second motor mode, the one or more inputs are given either as a gesture detection, where the user provide a specific gesture to show willingness to enter second motor mode where integrated starter generator acts as a motor to provide additional torque to engine. The user can also touch a button which receives tactile sensation and instructs the processor to enter into second motor mode. The user can be given a press button as well.

[0040] In an embodiment, the one or more pre defined conditions include a first set of pre defined conditions to enter the torque assist, and a second set of pre defined conditions to enable the torque assist.

[0041] In an embodiment, both the first set of pre defined conditions and the second set of pre defined conditions are met to actuate the torque assist for a pre-defined duration. In an embodiment, the pre defined duration ranges between 5 seconds to 25 seconds. In a preferred embodiment, the pre defined duration is 9 seconds.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first set of pre defined conditions includes first inputs from a plurality of parameters, wherein the plurality of parametersinclude, a clutch status, an engine speed, a vehicle speed, a gear position, and a battery voltage.

[0043] In an embodiment, the second set of pre defined conditions include second inputs from one or more parameters, wherein the one or more parameters includes a gear position, an engine speed, a throttle position, a throttle position difference, an engine temperature, and a clutch switch.

[0044] In an embodiment, the first set of pre-defined conditions including comparing, by the processor (202), with a pre-defined threshold for each of the plurality of parameters, the plurality of parameters being at least one of a clutch status, an engine speed, a vehicle speed, a gear position, and a battery voltage, wherein the plurality of parameters being received from the plurality of sensors (250) positioned on an engine (150) of the vehicle (100).

[0045] In an embodiment, the second set of pre-defined conditions including comparing, by the processor (202), with a pre-defined threshold for each of the plurality of parameters being a gear position, an engine speed, a throttle position, a throttle position difference, an engine temperature, a clutch switch wherein the plurality of parameters being received from the plurality of sensors (250) positioned on the engine (150) of the vehicle (100).

[0046] In an embodiment, the step of providing the torque assist includes providing the torque assist to the crankshaft of the engine ( 150) by the integrated starter generator (210) to increase power transmitted to a drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

[0047] Thus, the present subject matter offers an advantage of providing a system and method for power assist in a vehicle which is simple and cost effective. The present subject matter offers advantage of having a system and method for power assist in the vehicle where no additional components and mechanisms to the engine is added and thus provides a simple and cost effective way of providing power assist in the vehicle. Another advantage of the present subject matter is providing ease in manufacturing and maintenance. Further, thepresent subject matter provides better durability of the engine without additional components and cost. The present subject matter provides an advantage of enhanced engine performance without altering the layout and thus prevents delay in manufacturing. The present subject matter also complies with Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency / Economy (CAFE) norms.

[0048] While certain features of the claimed subject matter have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0049] In light of the above mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the disclosed subject matter, the claimed steps as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the configuration itself as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.

[0050] The present invention proposes an entirely new system and method for power assist in a vehicle where the integrated starter generator is adapted for one or more operative modes responsive to one or more inputs received by the processor. Herein, the one or more operative modes are functional when one or more pre-defined conditions for the one or more operative modes are met. Thus, the present invention is not abstract but a result of skill and labour of the inventors. Additionally, the present invention is not obvious to the person skilled in the art as it provides enhanced engine performance without altering layout or adding additional components which further adds to cost of the vehicle.

[0051] Obvious approach would be to have a separate controller to perform a second motor mode function. However, the present subject matter provides asystem and method for power assist in a vehicle without additional components being added.

[0052] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with another does not imply that all such components are required, On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention.

[0053] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

[0054] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

[0055] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.Reference Numerals:100 - vehicle104a- front rotating member104b-rear rotating meeting 105- handlebar110- fuel tank120- seat150- engine200- System 202- processor250- plurality of sensors251- enable / disable automatic power assist via vehicle ride mode252- enable / disable automatic power assist via calibration253- enable / disable automatic power assist by user via cluster 300- Method310- First step320- second step330- third step340- Last step

Claims

We claim:

1. A system (200) for power assist in a vehicle (100), the system (200) comprising: a processor (202); an integrated starter generator (210), the integrated starter generator is operatively coupled with a crankshaft of an engine (150) of the vehicle (100); a first end of the crankshaft is provided with a transmission assembly; a second end of the crankshaft, is provided with the integrated starter generator (210); wherein, the integrated starter generator (210) is adapted for one or more operative modes responsive to one or more inputs received by the processor (202); wherein, the one or more operative modes are functional when one or more pre-defined conditions for the one or more operative modes are met.

2. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmission assembly transmits power from the crankshaft of the engine (150) to a drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

3. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more operative modes are a motor mode at a start condition of the vehicle (100), a generator mode during running of the vehicle (100), and a second motor mode during a running condition of the vehicle (100).

4. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the second motor mode includes providing a torque assist to the crankshaft to increase power transmitted to the drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

5. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the one or more operative modes are selected by the processor (202) responsive to the one or more inputs received by the processor (202).

6. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 3, wherein the integrated starter generator (210) being configured to operate in the second motor mode subsequent to the start condition of the vehicle (100).

7. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 3, wherein to enter the second motor mode the one or more inputs are at least one of a gesture detection, a tactile detection or a pressure detection.

8. The system (200) for power assist as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more pre defined conditions include a first set of pre defined conditions to enter the torque assist, and a second set of pre defined conditions to enable the torque assist.

9. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 1, wherein both the first set of pre defined conditions and the second set of pre defined conditions are met to actuate the torque assist for a pre-defined duration.

10. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of pre defined conditions includes first inputs from a plurality of parameters, wherein the plurality of parameters include, a clutch status, an engine speed, a vehicle speed, a gear position, and a battery voltage.

11. The system (200) for power assist in the vehicle (100), as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of pre defined conditions include second inputs from one or more parameters, wherein the one or more parameters includes a gear position, an engine speed, a throttle position, a throttle position difference, an engine temperature, and a clutch switch.

12. A method (300) for power assist in a vehicle (100) during a running condition of the vehicle, the method (300) comprising steps: sensing (310), by a plurality of sensors (250), one or more first inputs pertaining to a plurality of parameters; processing (320), by a processor (202), the one or more first inputs of the plurality of parameters; actuating (330), by the processor (202), a second motor mode to provide a torque assist responsive to the one or more first inputs pertaining to the plurality of parameters; providing (340), by the processor (202), the torque assist, upon the one or more first inputs meeting a first set of pre-defined conditions and a second set of pre-defined conditions.

13. The method (300) for power assist in a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the first set of pre-defined conditions including comparing, by the processor (202), with a pre-defined threshold for each of the plurality of parameters, the plurality of parameters being at least one of a clutch status, an engine speed, a vehicle speed, a gear position, and a battery voltage, wherein the plurality of parameters being received from the plurality of sensors (250) positioned on an engine (150) of the vehicle (100).

14. The method (300) for power assist in a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the second set of pre-defined conditions including comparing, by the processor (202), with a pre-defined threshold for each of the plurality of parameters being a gear position, an engine speed, a throttle position, a throttle position difference, an engine temperature, a clutch switch wherein the plurality of parameters being received from the plurality of sensors (250) positioned on the engine (150) of the vehicle (100).

15. The method (300) for power assist in a vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein, the step of providing the torque assist includes providing the torque assist to the crankshaft of the engine(150) by the integrated starter generator (210) to increase power transmitted to a drive wheel (104b) of the vehicle (100).

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