Hybrid Vehicle Energy Management Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of hybrid electric vehicles lack control and information over the choice and depletion rate of energy sources, specifically between battery packs and liquid fuel tanks, which limits efficient energy management.
Innovation Solution
A user interface that displays energy levels from both sources and allows operators to select energy usage, featuring a control that adjusts engine throttle speed and enables/disable either the internal combustion engine or battery pack, providing a continuum of energy management modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If the hybrid vehicle operates solely from the storage battery, then the vehicle remains quiet and consumes no fuel or emits no exhaust, but the operator has little or no control or information about the choice of energy sources or the rate at which each energy source is depleted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a user interface that provides real-time feedback to the operator about energy source status and consumption rates. The display shows battery charge level, fuel tank level, and allows the operator to select energy management modes, creating a closed-loop feedback system that resolves the information asymmetry problem while maintaining electric-only operation benefits
2Duration of action of moving object
If the hybrid vehicle uses the internal combustion engine after battery energy is consumed, then the vehicle can continue operation, but the operator lacks control over the choice of energy sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic energy management system where the operator can actively select between different energy sources and modes (electric-only, hybrid, fuel-only) based on real-time conditions. The control system dynamically adjusts energy source selection based on operator input, battery state of charge, and vehicle operating conditions, transforming a static automatic system into a dynamic controllable one
3Productivity
If the operator wants to optimize energy use based on available sources, then vehicle performance can be extended without fuel consumption or emissions, but the operator needs a user interface to provide information and control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional user interface that consolidates multiple functions into a single integrated display system. The interface simultaneously shows battery status, fuel status, provides mode selection controls, and delivers real-time feedback, reducing the number of separate components needed while providing comprehensive energy management capabilities
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
Enables informed energy management, allowing operators to optimize energy use based on available sources, extending vehicle performance without fuel consumption or emissions, and providing real-time feedback on energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
one or more electric traction drive motors powered by an engine-driven generator
Implementation Method 2
sufficient electrical energy storage to provide full vehicle driving performance for a desired time or distance
Data Source
AI summary
A user interface for managing energy from multiple energy sources on a hybrid vehicle displays information on the amount of energy available from a battery pack and liquid fuel tank, and allows the user to select when and how much stored energy is used from each energy source. The user interface may include an operator actuated control and a pair of gauges showing the amount of stored energy for the battery pack and the liquid fuel tank. The operator control may move the control between end settings that disable the internal combustion engine or minimize battery pack use.