Hybrid Vehicle Controller Optimizing Engine Operating Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid electric vehicles face challenges in maintaining optimal engine operating points and battery State of Charge (SOC) under varying load conditions, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and potential battery discharge issues.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for controlling a hybrid vehicle that includes an engine, driving motor, hybrid starter and generator, clutch, battery, and electric supercharger, with a controller that adjusts the vehicle's mode, engine operating point, and shifting pattern based on driver torque requirements and battery SOC to optimize performance and prevent battery discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the engine operating point is not appropriately adjusted under high travelling load, then the vehicle can meet the torque requirement, but the engine operates in high RPM region causing degraded engine efficiency and fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the engine operating point based on travelling load conditions and battery SOC. The controller varies engine torque and RPM operating points in real-time, selecting from multiple predetermined operating points to maintain optimal efficiency while meeting torque requirements under varying load conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes engine operating parameters (torque and RPM) based on battery SOC levels and travelling load. The controller selects different engine operating points from predetermined maps, adjusting parameters like engine torque command values and RPM command values to optimize fuel efficiency while satisfying torque requirements.
2Productivity
If power of the engine is continuously assisted through the driving motor to satisfy travelling condition under high load, then the torque requirement is met, but the SOC of the battery is sharply decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback control by continuously monitoring battery SOC levels and adjusting the engine operating point accordingly. When SOC drops below threshold values, the controller increases engine torque contribution and reduces reliance on the driving motor, preventing excessive battery discharge while maintaining required torque output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically switches between different power source combinations (engine-only, engine+motor, motor-only) based on real-time SOC levels and torque requirements. The controller adaptively adjusts the proportion of power from each source, optimizing the balance between torque delivery and battery charge maintenance.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the engine operates at optimal operating point, then fuel efficiency is improved, but the torque output may be insufficient under high travelling load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal control strategy that handles multiple operating conditions (low load, high load, different SOC levels) using a unified approach. The controller selects from multiple predetermined engine operating points and combines engine power with electric motor power to satisfy torque requirements across all conditions while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite powertrain system combining internal combustion engine and electric motor power sources. The hybrid system leverages the high torque capability of the electric motor at low speeds and the fuel efficiency of the engine at optimal operating points, creating a synergistic power delivery system that exceeds the capabilities of either power source alone.
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
The solution effectively maintains engine speed in low RPM regions under high loads, improves fuel efficiency, prevents battery SOC from entering low regions, reduces emissions, and enhances charge/discharge efficiency by optimizing engine operation and shifting patterns.
Implementation Method 1
an electric supercharger installed in an intake line, in which outside air supplied to combustion chambers of the engine flows, respectively
Implementation Method 2
a battery configured to supply electric energy to the driving motor or charge electric energy generated in the driving motor
Implementation Method 3
a driving motor configured to assist power of the engine and selectively operate as a power generator to generate electric energy
Implementation Method 4
an engine configured to generate power by combustion of fuel
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus of controlling a hybrid vehicle includes: an engine configured to generate power by combustion of fuel; a driving motor configured to assist power of the engine and selectively operate as a power generator to generate electric energy; an HSG configured to start the engine and selectively operate as a power generator to generate electric energy; a clutch provided between the engine and the driving motor; a battery configured to supply electric energy to the driving motor or charge electric energy generated in the driving motor; an EGR apparatus configured to resupply exhaust gas discharged from the engine to the engine; an electric supercharger in which outside air supplied to combustion chambers flows; and a controller configured to variably control a travelling mode, an operating point, a lock charge through the driving motor and the HSG, and a shifting pattern based on a required torque of a driver and a SOC of the battery.