Dual-Engine Series Hybrid Layout for Sporty Drive and Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Series hybrid cars suffer from unsporty road performance and inefficient energy use when maintaining constant speed due to their narrow operating range and unpleasant acoustic sensations.
Innovation Solution
A series hybrid car design with two independent internal combustion engines and electric generators, each connected to a reversible electric motor, an energy storage device, and a control unit that optimizes engine operation for maximum efficiency and sound variation, allowing for sporty performance and efficient energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a single combustion engine is used in a series hybrid setup, then energy efficiency is improved during continuous speed changes, but road performance and driver engagement deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single combustion engine into two separate combustion engines (first and second combustion engines), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain energy efficiency by operating engines at optimal points while improving road performance through variable sound characteristics and enhanced power delivery during acceleration.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the combustion engine operates at maximum energy efficiency, then energy efficiency is improved, but acoustic engagement and sportiness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit dynamically adjusts the operation of the two combustion engines based on driving conditions. During sporty driving or acceleration, the system can operate both engines at higher power levels with varied sound characteristics, while maintaining energy efficiency during steady-state cruising by optimizing individual engine operating points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite acoustic and power output by combining the outputs of two combustion engines. This allows the system to generate richer, more engaging sound characteristics and improve road performance while maintaining overall energy efficiency through coordinated control of both engines.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the combustion engine is undersized relative to maximum power absorption, then energy efficiency is improved, but power availability during strong accelerations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the power generation function across two combustion engines, the system can maintain smaller, more efficient individual engines while collectively providing sufficient power for strong accelerations. The control unit coordinates both engines to deliver required power levels during high-demand situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the power output of two combustion engines to meet the total power requirements of the vehicle. This combination allows the system to achieve adequate power availability during strong accelerations while maintaining energy efficiency through optimized individual engine sizing and operation.
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
The design achieves sporty road performance and improved energy efficiency by optimizing engine operation and sound generation, while maintaining efficient energy use across varying driving conditions.
Implementation Method 1
two generation assemblies 7, each comprising an internal combustion engine 8
Implementation Method 2
each comprising an internal combustion engine 8, which is connected to a respective reversible electric generator 9
Implementation Method 3
two reversible electric motors 6, which are coupled to the corresponding rear drive wheels 4 and are configured to apply a drive torque to the rear drive wheels 4
Data Source
AI summary
A car having: a frame, which develops along a longitudinal direction having a front-rear orientation; at least two drive wheels; at least one electric motor connected to the two drive wheels; a first generation assembly having at least a first electric generator and a first internal combustion engine provided with a first drive shaft, which is mechanically connected only to the electric generator and, therefore, is mechanically independent of the drive wheels; and a second generation assembly having at least a second electric generator, which is mechanically independent of the first electric generator, and a second internal combustion engine provided with a second drive shaft, which is mechanically connected only to the electric generator and, therefore, is mechanically independent of the drive wheels.