Dynamic Torque Management for Engine Cycle Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine cycle efficiency management systems for vehicles, such as those in mine haul trucks, face limitations in optimizing torque and fuel consumption due to static torque limits based on vehicle mass and road grade, without effectively addressing peak power conditions or engine durability.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic torque management system using an integrated circuit-based electronic control system that adjusts engine torque by reducing it below a throttle command magnitude in one segment and increasing it above the torque curve limit in another, based on look-ahead horizon conditions, allowing for extended torque operations constrained by dynamic limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If engine torque is limited to a torque curve limit based on vehicle mass and road grade, then engine durability is maintained, but engine cycle efficiency and fuel consumption are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static torque curve limits to dynamic torque management. The system continuously adjusts torque limits based on real-time vehicle operating conditions, including predicted future states from look-ahead horizon analysis. This allows the engine to operate at optimal efficiency points while maintaining durability through adaptive constraint management rather than fixed limits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action through look-ahead horizon analysis that predicts future vehicle operating conditions. By anticipating upcoming terrain, traffic, or operational requirements, the system proactively adjusts torque management strategies before critical moments arise, optimizing fuel consumption while ensuring durability constraints are met in advance.
2Use of energy by moving object
If engine torque is reduced below throttle command magnitude to improve efficiency, then fuel consumption decreases, but vehicle acceleration and power delivery are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring actual vehicle performance parameters such as acceleration, speed, and load conditions. This feedback loop allows the system to detect when torque reduction begins to adversely affect vehicle performance and dynamically adjust torque management strategies to maintain acceptable power delivery while preserving fuel efficiency gains.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically balances efficiency and power delivery by continuously adapting torque limits based on real-time vehicle state and predicted future conditions. Rather than applying fixed torque reductions, the system modulates torque constraints adaptively, reducing torque only when and where it does not compromise vehicle performance requirements.
3Device complexity
If static torque limits are used for torque management, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to varying operating conditions and peak power scenarios is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-calculating or pre-storing torque curve data and operating condition parameters that can be quickly referenced during vehicle operation. This preparation allows the complex look-ahead horizon analysis and adaptive torque management to execute efficiently without excessive real-time computational burden, balancing system complexity with adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
One embodiment is a method of operating an electronic control system (ECS) to control an engine to propel a vehicle. The method comprises receiving a throttle command, determining an operation to increase engine cycle efficiency by reducing engine torque below a magnitude corresponding to the throttle command and below a torque curve limit over a first vehicle operation segment and permitting an increase in engine torque above the torque curve limit over a second vehicle operation segment, controlling the engine to output torque below the magnitude corresponding to the throttle command and below the torque curve limit over the first vehicle operation segment, and controlling the engine to output torque above the torque curve limit over the second vehicle operation segment in response to a second received throttle command and constrained by an extended limit on operation of the engine above the torque curve limit.