Dual Mode Range Extended Electric Vehicle Charging Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engines for transportation face challenges such as high costs, pollution, and resource depletion, while electric or partially electric vehicles lack flexibility in usage.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system incorporating a propulsion motor, battery, generator, engine control circuit, and user interface that allows users to select operational modes to optimize battery charging, reducing fuel engine operation and extending electric-only driving range by controlling the engine's on/off based on battery state of charge thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the battery state of charge thresholds are set high to maintain battery charge level, then the engine operates more frequently, but the electric-only driving range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of battery charge thresholds based on user-selected operational modes. The system transitions from static threshold values to dynamic thresholds that adapt to user needs, allowing the same vehicle to optimize for either maximum electric range or maintained battery charge level depending on the selected mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of battery charge thresholds based on operational mode selection. By modifying these threshold parameters dynamically, the system resolves the contradiction between maintaining high charge levels (which increases engine operation) and extending electric range (which requires lower thresholds).
2Reliability
If the engine operates frequently to charge the battery, then the battery state of charge is maintained at higher levels, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts engine operation strategy based on user-selected modes. In electric-range optimized mode, the system allows the battery to discharge to lower thresholds before engine charging activates, thereby reducing unnecessary engine operation and fuel consumption while still maintaining adequate charge levels for the selected operational profile.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the battery charge threshold parameters based on operational mode, the system optimizes the balance between battery charge maintenance and fuel consumption. The parameter adjustment ensures the engine operates only when necessary for the selected mode, minimizing fuel use while maintaining appropriate charge levels.
3Length of moving object
If the vehicle operates in electric-only mode with low battery thresholds, then the electric driving range is extended, but the flexibility in usage is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dual-mode operational system that provides both electric-range optimized operation and battery-charge-maintained operation. This multi-functionality allows the same vehicle to serve different user needs: maximizing electric range when possible, or maintaining higher charge levels when flexibility and readiness are priorities, thereby resolving the contradiction between extended range and usage flexibility.
4Duration of action of moving object
If the engine is used to charge the battery, then the vehicle has extended range capability, but pollution and resource depletion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements partial engine operation by setting charge thresholds that activate the engine only when battery charge falls below specific levels. This partial action approach extends vehicle range capability through selective engine use rather than continuous operation, thereby reducing pollution and resource consumption compared to conventional hybrid operation while still providing extended range when needed.
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
This solution reduces fuel consumption, enhances flexibility in vehicle usage, and minimizes environmental impact by optimizing battery charging and engine operation, allowing for longer electric-only driving distances and reduced fuel burning.
Implementation Method 1
a battery coupled to the motor and providing energy to the motor
Implementation Method 2
a generator system for providing charging energy to the battery and comprised of an engine
Data Source
AI summary
A dual mode battery charging system and method of use are provided for use in an electric vehicle. The system utilizes at least two user selectable, charging operational modes. In a first operational mode, a state of charge circuit cycles an engine/generator system on/off between a first level and a second level, where the second level is higher than the first level. In a second operational mode, the state of charge circuit cycles the engine/generator system on/off between a third level and a fourth level. After the fourth state of charge has been reached once, the state of charge circuit cycles the engine/generator system on/off between a fifth level and the fourth level, where the fifth level is higher than the third level and lower than the fourth level, and where the fourth level is lower than both the first and second levels.