Alternator Field Control for Vehicle Launch Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle launch and acceleration from a standstill are hindered due to engine loading from peripheral systems during automatic restart, resulting in inadequate response and smoother engine torque experience for drivers.
Innovation Solution
Adjusting the alternator load in response to steering input and engine torque requests to optimize power distribution between the electric steering system and vehicle wheels, ensuring timely and sufficient energy supply during engine starts and stops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the engine is automatically restarted when the driver releases the brake pedal or depresses the accelerator pedal, then fuel economy is improved, but vehicle launch or acceleration from stop does not provide a desired response because the engine is loaded via peripheral systems that demand power upon engine restart
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by charging the capacitor with electrical energy from the alternator before the engine is automatically restarted. This stored energy is then used to power the electric steering system during engine restart, preventing the alternator from competing with the steering system for engine torque during the critical launch phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitor acts as an intermediary energy storage device between the alternator and the electric steering system. It decouples the power supply timing, allowing the alternator to charge during engine operation and the steering system to draw power during restart without direct conflict, thus resolving the torque competition.
2Reliability
If power is supplied to the electric steering system during engine restart, then steering functionality is maintained, but engine torque available for vehicle acceleration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by charging the capacitor with electrical energy from the alternator before the engine is automatically restarted. This stored energy is then used to power the electric steering system during engine restart, preventing the alternator from competing with the steering system for engine torque during the critical launch phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitor provides partial power supply to the steering system during engine restart, which is sufficient to maintain steering functionality without requiring full alternator output. This partial action allows the engine to retain enough torque for acceptable acceleration performance while still maintaining steering control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves vehicle launch by providing smoother engine torque and enhanced alternator field control, prioritizing steering system power during high steering inputs and accelerating vehicle wheels during high torque demands, thus enhancing overall drivability.
Implementation Method 1
adjusting alternator field current to apply a desired amount of torque to the engine via the alternator
Implementation Method 2
adjusting alternator field current to apply a desired amount of torque to the engine via the alternator
Data Source
AI summary
A method for improving starting of an engine that may be repeatedly stopped and started is presented. In one embodiment, the method adjusts a transmission actuator in response to engine combustion during an engine start. The method may improve vehicle launch for stop/start vehicles.