Adaptive Engine Starter Switching for Balanced Device Lifespan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle engine starting devices, such as conventional starters and integrated starter/generators, degrade prematurely when used excessively, leading to uneven lifespan distribution and potential for earlier service needs due to varying usage patterns and operator behavior.
Innovation Solution
A method for adaptively selecting the engine starting device based on vehicle attributes and engine starting device attributes, such as total engine starts, distance traveled, and continuous operation time, to balance the usage and extend the lifespan of each device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single engine starting device is used, then the system is simple and reliable, but the device degrades prematurely due to excessive usage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the engine starting function into multiple independent starting devices (e.g., first starting device and second starting device). Each device handles a portion of the total starting operations, segmenting the workload to prevent any single device from degrading prematurely due to excessive usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic switching between multiple starting devices based on real-time conditions such as device state, vehicle operating conditions, and usage history. The controller adaptively selects which device to use for each engine start, optimizing lifespan distribution across devices while responding to changing operational requirements.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If multiple engine starting devices are used, then the lifespan is distributed more evenly, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes multiple starting devices universally interchangeable for the same function of starting the engine. Both the first and second starting devices can perform engine starting operations, and the system universally manages them through a single controller that applies the same selection logic regardless of which device is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically monitors the state and usage of each starting device, making intelligent decisions about which device to use based on predefined criteria and real-time conditions. The system self-manages the workload distribution without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration.
3Duration of action of moving object
If adaptive switching between starting devices is implemented, then lifespan is extended, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors the state, usage history, and performance of each starting device, using this feedback information to dynamically adjust which device is selected for the next engine start. The system incorporates feedback loops that track cumulative usage and adjust selection criteria to optimize lifespan distribution across devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the starting devices by varying which device is active based on multiple factors including device state, vehicle operating conditions, temperature, humidity, and usage history. The controller adjusts device selection parameters dynamically to extend overall system lifespan while managing complexity through structured decision logic.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for operating a vehicle that includes a plurality of engine starting devices and an internal combustion engine is described. In one example, the method selects one of a plurality of engine starting devices to start an engine based on durability metrics of each of the plurality of engine starting devices. In addition, engine starting device selection may be based on calibration parameters that are generated via a server that is external to the vehicle.