Hybrid Engine-Generator Control for Combat Maneuvering Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine-generator control methods for series hybrid electric combat maneuvering systems are inefficient, leading to excessive battery charge/discharge currents, voltage fluctuations, unpleasant driving experiences, and engine damage due to independent accelerator pedal and engine operating points, as well as sudden engine shutdowns during battery charging.
Innovation Solution
An engine-generator control method that detects accelerator and brake pedal signals, calculates requested power, and optimizes engine and battery efficiency using efficiency maps to select the highest system efficiency power settings, allowing for variable engine power based on vehicle conditions and controlling engine on/off states accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the engine-generator is operated only at the Optimal Operating Point (OOP) based on battery SOC, then the engine-generator efficiency is improved, but the battery charge/discharge current becomes excessively increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic engine operating point adjustment based on real-time accelerator pedal position and vehicle speed, transitioning from static OOP control to dynamic adaptive control. The engine operating point is continuously adjusted according to driver demand and vehicle conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining high efficiency and reducing excessive battery current.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameters from simple SOC-based binary on/off control to multi-parameter control including accelerator pedal position, vehicle speed, and battery voltage. This parameter change enables smoother power transitions and reduces abrupt battery current fluctuations while maintaining overall system efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If the engine-generator is operated only at the Optimal Operating Point (OOP), then the engine-generator efficiency is improved, but the accelerator pedal and engine operating point become independent, resulting in unpleasant driving feel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces feedback control by continuously monitoring accelerator pedal position and using it to adjust the engine operating point. This creates a closed-loop system where driver input is directly reflected in engine response, restoring the natural connection between pedal position and power output while maintaining efficiency through optimized operating points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the engine operating point based on real-time accelerator pedal position, creating a responsive driving experience. The engine power output continuously adapts to driver demand, eliminating the independence between pedal position and engine operation while preserving efficiency benefits.
3Loss of energy
If the engine is operated always at high power corresponding to OOP, then the engine-generator efficiency is improved, but the engine can be damaged due to continuous high power operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic engine power adjustment that adapts to actual vehicle needs rather than maintaining constant high power. The engine operating point varies continuously based on accelerator pedal position and vehicle speed, allowing the engine to operate at high power only when necessary while reducing power during low-demand conditions, thereby improving durability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the engine power parameter from fixed high-power operation to variable power operation based on multiple parameters including accelerator pedal position, vehicle speed, and battery state. This enables the engine to operate at optimal efficiency points without sustained high-power stress, improving both efficiency and reliability.
4Loss of energy
If the engine is turned off after the vehicle has stopped while charging the battery, then fuel consumption is reduced, but the engine suddenly stops causing potential problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by monitoring vehicle stop conditions and battery charging state in advance, and only commanding engine shutdown when appropriate conditions are met. The system predicts upcoming stops and prepares for smooth engine cessation, preventing sudden shutdowns by ensuring stable battery voltage and appropriate charging state before engine off command.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback control to monitor battery voltage and charging current before allowing engine shutdown. This feedback mechanism ensures the engine is turned off only when battery conditions are stable and can accommodate the transition, preventing sudden stops that could cause reliability issues while still achieving fuel savings during stops.
Data Source
AI summary
An engine-generator control method and a series hybrid electric combat maneuvering system using the control method are provided. The series hybrid electric combat maneuvering system includes a drive motor connected to an axle via a speed reducer, a Motor Control Unit (MCU) configured to control the drive motor, an engine-generator configured to generate electric power, a Generator Control Unit (GCU) configured to control the engine-generator, a high voltage battery, a Battery Management System (BMS) configured to manage the high voltage battery, and a Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) configured to control the MCU, the GCU, and the BMS.