Hybrid Drive Switchover Delay for Torque Neutral Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hybrid drive systems face high fuel consumption due to frequent switchovers between full and partial operating states, requiring intentional efficiency degradations for torque-neutral transitions, which are inefficient and costly.

Innovation Solution

A method for operating a hybrid drive system that delays switchovers by compensating torque differentials with an electric motor for a defined period, only switching to full operation if the target torque exceeds a threshold persistently, thereby reducing unnecessary switchovers and fuel consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If switchovers between full and partial operating states are performed frequently to adapt to varying torque demands, then adaptability is improved, but fuel consumption increases due to intentional efficiency degradations during each switchover

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidfuel consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The control device delays the switchover decision for a predetermined time period after the torque threshold is first exceeded. This preliminary waiting period allows the system to avoid premature switchovers that would occur during transient torque fluctuations, thereby reducing the frequency of unnecessary switchovers and associated fuel consumption penalties

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Use of energy by moving object

If the internal combustion engine operates in partial operating state to improve efficiency, then fuel efficiency is improved, but torque output decreases requiring electric motor compensation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel efficiencyVSAvoidtorque output
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The electric motor serves as an intermediary component that compensates for the torque deficit generated when the internal combustion engine operates in partial operating state. The control device coordinates the electric motor's torque contribution to maintain overall system torque output while allowing the combustion engine to operate efficiently at reduced load

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If multiple switchovers occur in rapid succession, then torque neutrality is maintained, but fuel consumption increases and system reliability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetorque neutralityVSAvoidsystem reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control device implements a delay mechanism that prevents immediate switchover execution when the torque threshold is exceeded. By waiting for a predetermined time period, the system avoids rapid successive switchovers that would occur during transient conditions, thereby improving reliability while maintaining torque neutrality through coordinated electric motor support

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 approach minimizes fuel consumption by avoiding frequent switchovers and maintaining efficient operation, allowing the electric motor to support the internal combustion engine only when necessary, thus optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing power development costs.

Implementation Method 1

an electric motor that is in drive connection with the internal combustion engine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11142180B2Method for operating a drive system, drive system, and motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2021.10.12 VOLKSWAGEN AG
  • US11142180B2 patent drawing
  • US11142180B2 patent drawing
  • US11142180B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for operating a drive system for a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine and having an electric motor. The internal combustion engine can be operated in a partial operating state as well as in a full operating state. A first threshold is defined for a target drive torque to be applied by the drive system for a switchover from the partial to the full operating state. After the first threshold is exceeded, a switchover is delayed for a defined period of time. A difference between the target drive torque and the actual drive torque of the internal combustion engine is compensated for by the electric motor. After the period of time has elapsed, a switchover from the partial operating state into the full operating state takes place if the first threshold value continues to be exceeded or a compensating operation of the electric motor is ended.