Hybrid Vehicle Air Conditioning Compressor Clutch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid motor vehicles face challenges in operating air conditioning compressors efficiently, particularly when the high-voltage battery is low, leading to potential continuous discharging and limited electric operating range, and inability to charge the battery when stationary.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary unit arrangement with a control device that manages clutches to connect the electric motor to the air conditioning compressor and belt drive of the internal combustion motor, allowing operation via the electric motor, internal combustion motor, or both, enabling charging and air conditioning even when stationary.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the air conditioning compressor is driven by the electric motor from the high-voltage network, then the air conditioning system can operate independently of the internal combustion motor, but the high-voltage battery discharges continuously when the battery charge state is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different operating modes based on the charge state of the high-voltage battery. When the battery charge state is sufficient, the air conditioning compressor is driven by the electric motor from the high-voltage network. When the battery charge state drops below a threshold, the system automatically switches to belt-drive mode from the internal combustion motor, preventing continuous discharge and preserving the electric operating range.
Solution Approach 2:
The air conditioning compressor is designed with dual drive capability, allowing it to be driven by either the electric motor from the high-voltage network or the belt drive from the internal combustion motor. This multi-functionality enables the system to adapt to different operating conditions and energy availability scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the air conditioning compressor is driven by the belt drive of the internal combustion motor, then the air conditioning can operate without sufficient high-voltage battery charge, but the air conditioning can only operate when the internal combustion motor is running
Solution Approach 1:
The control device dynamically selects the drive source for the air conditioning compressor based on real-time operating conditions. When the internal combustion motor is running and the battery charge state is low, the system engages the belt drive. When the battery charge state is sufficient, the system switches to electric motor drive, allowing air conditioning operation even when the internal combustion motor is not running.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary that manages the switching between different drive sources. It monitors the charge state of the high-voltage battery and the operating state of the internal combustion motor, then automatically selects the appropriate drive mode to maintain air conditioning functionality under various conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an additional electric motor for the air conditioning compressor is provided separately from the belt drive, then the air conditioning can operate electrically, but additional components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the air conditioning compressor into the auxiliary unit arrangement that is already driven by the belt drive and electric motor. By integrating the air conditioning compressor with the existing auxiliary components and sharing the common electric motor and clutch mechanisms, the patent avoids the need for a completely separate electric drive system, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining electric air conditioning capability.
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 configuration allows for efficient charging of the high-voltage battery and operation of the air conditioning compressor in hybrid vehicles, even at low battery states, reducing costs and installation complexity by eliminating the need for additional generators and alternators.
Implementation Method 1
an electric motor for operating the air conditioning compressor from the high-voltage network is associated
Implementation Method 2
the electric motor, forming an auxiliary unit arrangement, is connected via a first clutch to the air conditioning compressor
Implementation Method 3
via a second clutch to a belt drive of the internal combustion motor
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid motor vehicle including an internal combustion motor and an electric drive motor as drive motors in a powertrain, wherein the electric drive motor and a high-voltage battery associated therewith are connected to a high-voltage network of the hybrid motor vehicle, wherein the hybrid motor vehicle moreover includes at least one air conditioning system with an air conditioning compressor with which an electric motor for operating the air conditioning compressor from the high-voltage network is associated, wherein the electric motor, forming an auxiliary unit arrangement, is connected via a first clutch to the air conditioning compressor and via a second clutch to a belt drive of the internal combustion motor and can be operated in order to charge the high-voltage battery. A control device is provided for actuating at least one of the clutches as a function of a current operating state of the hybrid motor vehicle.