E-4WD Controller Mode Switching for Fuel Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current four-wheel drive (4WD) powertrain systems in electrified vehicles lack an optimized driving control method, resulting in inefficient fuel usage and limited functionality of the rear wheel motor, which is primarily used for driving assistance.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for controlling an electronic four-wheel drive (E-4WD) vehicle that employs separate driving control modes for the rear wheel motor, front wheel motor, four-wheel motors, and engine operation based on driver demand power, utilizing a powertrain with an engine, front wheel motor, rear wheel motor, engine clutch, transmission, decelerator, and battery to optimize power transmission efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the rear wheel motor is used for driving assistance only, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and fuel efficiency are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between different driving modes (front wheel motor only, rear wheel motor only, both motors, engine-on) based on real-time conditions such as driver demand power, available power, and power transmission efficiency. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize fuel efficiency without requiring complex manual intervention or permanent structural changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by selectively activating different power sources and driving modes. The controller adjusts which motors are driven and at what power levels based on comparing driver demand power with total available power, thereby optimizing fuel consumption across different operating conditions without increasing hardware complexity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If separate driving control modes are applied for different power sources, then fuel efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system implements dynamic mode switching between multiple driving configurations (rear wheel motor only, front wheel motor only, both motors, engine-on) based on real-time power availability and demand conditions. This allows the system to achieve optimal fuel efficiency across varying operating scenarios without requiring permanently complex hardware architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions by managing different power sources (front wheel motor, rear wheel motor, engine) and switching between various driving modes. This multi-functional controller optimizes fuel efficiency, manages power distribution, and adapts to different driving conditions, thereby achieving improved energy usage without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If the rear wheel motor is operated to compensate for engine power loss during gear shifting, then the reliability is improved, but the use of energy is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors driving conditions, power availability, and engine operation status to determine when engine power loss occurs during gear shifting. Based on this feedback, the system selectively activates the rear wheel motor to compensate for power loss only when necessary, thereby maintaining driving force continuity while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption from the motor.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling an electronic four-wheel drive (E-4WD) of a vehicle includes: a first powertrain for a front wheel, where the first powertrain includes an engine, and a front wheel motor; and a second powertrain for a rear wheel, where the second powertrain includes a rear wheel motor. The device provides a rear wheel motor driving mode, a front wheel motor driving mode, a combined driving mode in which the front wheel motor and the rear wheel motor are both driven, and an engine-on mode according to driver power demand for the vehicle, such that fuel efficiency of the vehicle is improved.