Vehicle Accessory Torque Distribution Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smaller displacement engines face significant challenges in managing engine torque distribution for accessories, leading to potential engine speed variations and stalling, especially at higher altitudes where torque reserve is limited.
Innovation Solution
A method to limit engine torque supplied to accessories based on driver demand torque and available engine torque, ensuring that the total torque allocated to accessories does not exceed the engine's capacity, thereby reducing the risk of engine speed variations and stalling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If engine accessories operate independently without torque coordination, then each accessory can function at its desired output level, but the total torque demand may exceed engine capacity causing speed variations and stalling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent accessory control systems into a unified torque distribution management system. The engine control unit coordinates torque allocation across all accessories (alternator, A/C compressor, power steering pump) as an integrated system, ensuring total torque demand remains within engine capacity while maintaining individual accessory functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts torque allocation to accessories based on real-time engine operating conditions. The controller continuously monitors engine speed, torque capacity, and accessory demands, then adaptively redistributes torque as needed to prevent stalling while optimizing accessory performance throughout varying operating ranges.
2Adaptability or versatility
If torque is allocated to multiple accessories simultaneously, then accessory functionality is improved, but engine speed control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the control parameter from individual accessory output control to total torque demand management. By controlling the sum of all accessory torques as a collective parameter rather than managing each accessory independently, the system maintains engine speed precision while enabling versatile accessory operation within available torque capacity.
3Power
If accessories consume more engine torque, then accessory output performance increases, but engine torque reserve decreases leading to potential stalling
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring engine torque capacity and comparing it against total accessory torque demand. When the sum of accessory torques approaches available engine torque reserve, the controller automatically reduces accessory torque allocation to maintain a safe margin, preventing stalling while maximizing accessory power output under available resources.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for operating vehicle accessories is described. The method and system allocate an available amount of engine torque between different accessories depending on boundary conditions and nominal vehicle operating conditions. In one example, the accessories may include an air conditioner compressor, an alternator, and various vehicle electrical loads that are in electrical communication with the alternator.