Hybrid Vehicle Controller Engine Operating Point Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid vehicles face inefficiencies in engine operation and battery state of charge (SOC) management, particularly under varying load conditions and temperature, leading to decreased engine efficiency, fuel efficiency, and battery discharge issues.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for controlling a hybrid vehicle that adjusts the engine operating point, shifting pattern, and power mode based on battery SOC and torque requirements, utilizing electric superchargers and a controller to optimize engine operation, minimize power consumption, and maintain battery charge, including EV, HEV modes, and catalyst protection shifting patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the engine operating point is not appropriately adjusted under high traveling load, then the vehicle can meet torque requirements, but engine efficiency degrades and fuel efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the engine operating point based on real-time traveling load conditions and battery SOC state. The controller continuously optimizes engine torque and speed parameters to maintain operation within high-efficiency regions while satisfying torque requirements, preventing energy loss through suboptimal operating points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes engine operating parameters (torque, speed, fuel injection rate) based on detected traveling load and battery SOC. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the engine operates at optimal points that balance torque output with fuel efficiency, avoiding energy degradation under varying load conditions.
2Power
If power of the engine is continuously assisted through the driving motor to satisfy traveling condition, then torque requirement is met, but the SOC of the battery is sharply decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements feedback control by continuously monitoring battery SOC and adjusting the assistance strategy accordingly. When SOC is high, the system allows greater motor assistance; when SOC is low, it reduces assistance and adjusts engine operation to recharge the battery, preventing sharp SOC depletion while maintaining torque output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the engine to recharge the battery during operation, creating a self-sustaining energy management system. By coordinating engine power output with battery charging needs, the system maintains torque requirements while preventing excessive battery discharge through intelligent power distribution.
3Power
If the vehicle operates in high engine RPM region to meet torque requirements, then power output is sufficient, but engine efficiency degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically determines the optimal engine operating point based on torque requirements and battery SOC, avoiding fixed high-RPM operation. The controller adjusts engine speed and torque in real-time to maintain operation within high-efficiency regions while satisfying power demands through coordinated engine-motor operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses both the engine and driving motor to provide torque output, allowing the engine to operate in efficient low-RPM regions while the motor supplements power when needed. This multi-functional power delivery system achieves sufficient torque output without requiring the engine to operate continuously in inefficient high-RPM regions.
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 efficiency, prevents battery SOC from dropping sharply, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions by optimizing engine operation and power usage, while protecting the catalyst from excessive temperature.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of electric superchargers installed in a plurality of intake lines, 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 exhaust gas recirculation apparatus configured to resupply a part of exhaust gas discharged from the engine to the engine
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling a hybrid vehicle is provided. The apparatus includes an engine generating power by combustion of fuel, a driving motor assisting power of the engine and selectively operated as a power generator to generate electric energy and a clutch disposed between the engine and the driving motor. A battery supplies electric energy to the driving motor and charges the electric energy generated in the driving motor. A plurality of electric superchargers are installed in a plurality of intake lines, in which outside air supplied to combustion chambers of the engine flows, respectively and a controller variably adjusts an operating point of the engine.