Hybrid Vehicle Compressor Control for Shutter Failure
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid vehicles, a closed grille shutter failure leads to increased engine compartment temperature when the air conditioner is used, as the engine generates heat without adequate airflow, potentially limiting engine and motor outputs due to protection functions.
Innovation Solution
A control unit limits the output of the electrically powered air conditioner compressor when the grille shutter is closed, reducing power consumption and the frequency of engine charging, thereby minimizing temperature increases within the engine compartment. This is achieved by setting predetermined pressure thresholds for the coolant to stepwise limit the compressor's output or stop it when the coolant pressure exceeds specific values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the grille shutter is closed to improve aerodynamics, then fuel efficiency is improved, but engine compartment temperature increases when the air conditioner is operating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring shutter status, battery SOC, coolant temperature, and compressor operation. The control unit receives feedback from these sensors and adjusts compressor output accordingly. When the shutter is closed and cooling demand exists, the system feedback-loop adjusts compressor parameters to prevent excessive temperature rise that would force shutter opening
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of shutter status and proactively adjusts compressor operation before temperature becomes critical. The control unit detects closed shutter position in advance and preemptively reduces compressor output to prevent the temperature rise that would compromise aerodynamic efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A hybrid vehicle includes a control unit. The control unit limits an output of an electrically powered compressor included in an air conditioner when a shutter has a closed failure in which the shutter cannot be set to an opened state.