EV Rule-Maker Control System for Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Experienced users of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) face frustration due to lack of control and transparency in transitioning between charge-depleting and charge-sustaining modes, with existing methods being either automatic and non-transparent or manual and basic.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that allows users to create custom rules using operating and environmental parameters via a display interface, enabling personalized control over when the vehicle enters electric vehicle mode, using a processor to monitor and enforce these rules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic mode transition is implemented, then vehicle operation is simplified, but user control and transparency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between automatic mode transition and user-defined rule-based mode transition. The controller can operate in either automatic mode or in mode following user-defined rules, allowing the system to adapt its control strategy based on user preferences and conditions, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and user control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual mode selection is provided, then user control is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a rule creation module that allows users to define mode transition rules, a rule storage module that saves user-defined rules, and a controller module that executes either automatic control or user-defined rules. This segmentation manages system complexity by organizing functions into separate, manageable components.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in both automatic mode and user-defined rule-based mode. This universal design allows the same hardware and software platform to serve multiple control strategies, enhancing user control without requiring entirely separate systems.
3Device complexity
If basic manual control is implemented, then system complexity is minimized, but customization and user satisfaction are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by providing pre-configured mode transition rules that users can select or modify. This allows users to customize mode transitions without having to program complex rules from scratch, reducing the perceived complexity while still providing extensive customization options for different driving conditions and preferences.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle has a display interface and at least one processor that prompts a user via the display interface to construct a rule specifying circumstances in which the vehicle is to be operated in electric mode using a set of operating/environmental parameters such that the rule includes user specified logic. In response to and while sensed operating/environmental parameters satisfy the rule, the vehicle is operated in electric mode.