Electric Vehicle Driving Mode Customization With VCU Limit Checking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electric vehicles lack the ability for drivers to customize operational parameters beyond pre-set modes, leading to inefficient and unsafe driving experiences under varying conditions without the cumbersome process of manufacturer updates.
Innovation Solution
A Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) allows drivers to customize operational parameters through an interface, comparing them with operable limits and regulating the powertrain components, enabling personalized driving modes without manufacturer updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-set driving modes are provided, then the vehicle can operate with standardized performance characteristics, but the driver cannot customize operational parameters to suit individual preferences or varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows drivers to independently customize operational parameters through a user interface without requiring manufacturer intervention or complex mechanical adjustments. The VCU automatically processes user inputs and applies customizations, enabling self-service parameter adjustment that improves adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static pre-set modes to dynamic customizable parameters. Drivers can adjust operational parameters in real-time based on varying conditions, and the VCU dynamically adapts vehicle operation accordingly. This dynamic approach enables customization while using software-based control rather than complex mechanical systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer updates are implemented to modify operational parameters, then the vehicle can be optimized for different conditions, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the mechanical process of manufacturer updates with an electronic/software-based solution. Drivers can directly input customization preferences through a user interface, and the VCU processes these inputs electronically without requiring physical updates, manufacturer intervention, or time-consuming reprogramming processes
Solution Approach 2:
The VCU acts as an intermediary between the driver's customization preferences and the vehicle's operational parameters. It receives user inputs, validates them against safety constraints, and automatically adjusts parameters without requiring manufacturer involvement, thereby eliminating the time-consuming update process while maintaining adaptability
3Reliability
If operational parameters are fixed, then the vehicle control system remains simple and reliable, but the driving experience becomes inefficient and unsafe under varying conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the VCU continuously monitors operational parameters and driver inputs, then adjusts control commands accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to adapt to varying conditions in real-time, improving driving efficiency while maintaining reliability through automated validation and constraint checking that prevents unsafe configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A Vehicle Control Unit (VCU), for an electric vehicle, is configured to: receive, from an input device, an input signal comprising a plurality of operational parameters associated with a powertrain of the electric vehicle to customize a driving mode of the electric vehicle; compare each of the operational parameters with an operable limit thereof; create, if each of the operational parameters are within the corresponding operable limit, a user profile comprising the set operational parameters; store the user profile; and regulate operation of at least one element of the powertrain based on comparison of the set operational parameters and the created user profile.