Electrically Driven Compressor Thermal Management for Torque Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrically driven turbochargers and superchargers in internal combustion engines degrade when operated at high temperatures for extended periods, leading to reduced output and potential disturbances in engine torque and occupant comfort, as existing control methods either limit compressor output or cause abrupt torque changes.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a controller that reduces the output of an electrically driven compressor based on the temperature of a liquid passing through it, while also reducing engine output, thereby smoothing power reduction and minimizing compressor degradation by adjusting throttle opening, coolant flow, and fan speed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If output of electrically driven compressor is reduced to prevent degradation, then compressor reliability is improved, but engine torque production is disturbed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor reliabilityVSAvoidengine torque production
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The controller dynamically adjusts the compressor output reduction based on real-time temperature conditions, transitioning from full output to reduced output as liquid temperature increases, thereby balancing reliability protection with power maintenance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of the compressor by modifying its output level in response to temperature parameter changes, creating a adaptive control strategy that responds to thermal conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If output of electrically driven compressor is reduced alone, then compressor degradation is prevented, but driveline torque disturbances occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor lifespanVSAvoiddriveline torque disturbances
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The controller merges the compression control with engine torque management by simultaneously adjusting both compressor output and engine torque, creating a coordinated response that prevents torque disturbances

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

Engine torque acts as an intermediary element that compensates for compressor output reduction, smoothing out torque transitions and eliminating abrupt driveline disturbances

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Power

If electrically driven compressor operates at high temperature, then compressor output is maintained, but compressor degradation occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompressor outputVSAvoidcompressor degradation
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The controller implements feedback control by monitoring liquid temperature and adjusting compressor output accordingly, reducing compressor output when temperature exceeds thresholds to prevent degradation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 approach reduces driveline torque disturbances, extends compressor lifespan, and maintains smooth engine operation across various engine configurations by gradually reducing electrically driven compressor output in response to temperature thresholds.

Implementation Method 1

reducing output of an electrically driven compressor according to a temperature of a liquid passing through the electrically driven compressor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat absorption: Absorption (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS10584652B2System and method for operating an engine with an electrically driven compressor
Publication Date: 2020.03.10 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US10584652B2 patent drawing
  • US10584652B2 patent drawing
  • US10584652B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for operating an engine with an electrically driven compressor are described. In one example, a model in a controller determines one or more temperatures of the electrically driven compressor to establish a power output upper threshold that is not to be exceeded by the electrically driven compressor. Various actuators may be adjusted responsive to the power output upper threshold to reduce the possibility of electrically driven compressor degradation.