Hybrid Vehicle Controller Adaptive Torque Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid electric vehicles face challenges in optimizing energy usage and torque delivery across various operating modes, limiting flexibility and efficiency in balancing driveability and energy conservation.
Innovation Solution
A control system that manages electrical energy usage by adapting the amount of drive torque delivered by the electric propulsion motor based on the selected operating mode, using a controller to determine torque requirements and configure the powertrain accordingly, including options for torque boost, torque fill, and torque assist, while optimizing energy storage and reducing fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the electric propulsion motor delivers maximum drive torque in all operating modes, then vehicle performance is improved, but energy consumption increases and fuel economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the electric propulsion motor's torque delivery adaptive rather than static. The controller dynamically adjusts the amount of drive torque based on the selected operating mode (sport, economy, comfort), allowing the system to optimize performance characteristics for different driving conditions while managing energy consumption appropriately for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the torque output parameter of the electric propulsion motor according to the operating mode. The controller changes the torque delivery parameter dynamically - providing maximum torque in sport mode, reduced torque in economy mode, and limited torque in comfort mode - thereby resolving the contradiction between performance and energy consumption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the controller provides extensive torque management options (boost, fill, assist), then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single controller that performs multiple functions: it manages torque delivery, selects operating modes, provides torque boost, torque fill, and torque assist capabilities. This multi-functional approach allows extensive adaptability across different operating modes while consolidating control logic in one device rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements merging by combining the torque management functions (boost, fill, assist) and operating mode selection into a single integrated controller system. This consolidation provides versatile torque management capabilities while reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate control systems for each function.
3Loss of energy
If the vehicle operates in EV-only mode, then energy conservation is improved, but driveability in certain conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the vehicle to switch between EV-only mode and hybrid mode based on driving conditions and selected operating mode. The controller dynamically determines when to engage the internal combustion engine to supplement electric propulsion, ensuring adequate driveability in conditions requiring higher power while maintaining energy conservation in suitable conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by adjusting the powertrain configuration parameter between EV-only operation and hybrid operation. The controller changes the operational state of the internal combustion engine based on the selected operating mode and driving conditions, allowing the vehicle to optimize between energy conservation and driveability by switching between pure electric mode and engine-assisted mode.
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
Enhances vehicle performance and efficiency by allowing adaptive torque delivery, conserving energy, and optimizing powertrain operation based on driver demand and vehicle state, promoting extended EV mode operation and reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical propulsion motor operable to provide drive torque when the vehicle is operated in an electric vehicle (EV) mode
Implementation Method 2
The vehicle may include a belt integrated starter generator in addition to a starter for starting the engine
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a controller (140) for a parallel hybrid electric vehicle having a powertrain comprising an engine (121), electric propulsion means (123B; 123C) powered by energy storage means (150), and electric generator means (123B; 123C) operable to be driven by the engine (121) to recharge the energy storage means. The controller (140) is operable to: receive one or more signals indicative of one or more operating modes in which the vehicle is to be operated at a given moment in time, the one or more operating modes being selected from a plurality of operating modes; receive a signal indicative of demanded powertrain drive torque; and cause the engine (121) and electric propulsion means (123B; 123C) to deliver drive torque to one or more wheels (111; 112; 113; 114) to drive the vehicle in dependence on the signal indicative of demanded powertrain drive torque, the controller (140) being operable to cause the powertrain to operate in a parallel powertrain mode in which the controller is operable to cause the electric propulsion means (123B;123C) to apply drive torque to the one or more wheels in addition to the engine (121), the amount of torque delivered by the electric propulsion means being determined by the controller (140) at least in part in dependence on the signal indicative of demanded powertrain drive torque and the one or more signals indicative of the one or more operating modes in which the vehicle is to be operated. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.