Genset Engine Load Threshold Control to Prevent Stalling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Gensets face issues with engine stalling and lugging due to mismatches between engine and generator loads, leading to inefficient operation and performance reduction, especially in hybrid and electric vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A controller dynamically determines an engine operating parameter threshold value corresponding to the load demand, setting it as a maximum allowable value to prevent stalling and lugging by turning off the engine when the load exceeds this threshold.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If engine operations are optimized to maximize power output, then power generation capacity increases, but engine wear and operational reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower outputVSAvoidengine reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts engine operating parameters (speed, load, fuel injection timing) in real-time based on changing environmental conditions and power demands. The controller continuously optimizes the operating point to maintain maximum power output while preventing operation in harmful zones that would cause excessive wear or reliability issues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements closed-loop feedback control by continuously monitoring engine parameters, environmental conditions, and power output. This feedback enables the controller to adjust operating parameters dynamically, ensuring optimal power generation while avoiding conditions that would compromise engine reliability or increase wear rates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Use of energy by moving object

If engine operations are optimized for maximum efficiency, then fuel consumption improves, but adaptability to varying environmental conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel efficiencyVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts operating parameters based on real-time environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, altitude, air quality). The controller adjusts fuel injection, air intake, and exhaust parameters to maintain optimal efficiency across varying environmental conditions rather than operating at a fixed efficient point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes multiple operating parameters simultaneously (fuel-to-air ratio, injection timing, valve timing, turbocharger pressure) to optimize efficiency for current environmental conditions. This multi-parameter adjustment enables the engine to maintain high efficiency across a wide range of environmental scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If comprehensive monitoring and control systems are implemented, then operational optimization improves, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational optimizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system performs multiple functions through a single integrated controller: monitoring environmental conditions, measuring engine parameters, calculating optimal operating points, and actuating control mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems for each function, managing complexity while maintaining comprehensive optimization capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically monitors, analyzes, and adjusts engine operations without requiring external intervention. The controller self-regulates by processing sensor data and making real-time adjustments to operating parameters, eliminating the need for manual monitoring or complex external control infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3765342B1Systems and method for optimizing engine operations in gensets
Publication Date: 2026.05.06 CUMMINS INC
  • EP3765342B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3765342B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3765342B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A system comprises a generator and an engine coupled thereto. The engine is configured to provide mechanical power to the generator. A controller is coupled to the engine and the generator and is configured to compare an engine operating parameter value to a load demand value indicative of a load exerted by the generator on the engine. The controller determines that the engine operating parameter value fails to match the load demand value. The controller determines an engine operating parameter threshold value at which the engine operating parameter value failed to match the load demand value, and sets the engine operating parameter threshold value as a maximum allowable engine operating parameter value for the engine.