Hybrid Powertrain Fluid Pump Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional fluid pump systems in vehicle powertrains over-supply lubrication fluid under non-extreme conditions and are not easily adaptable to hybrid gas-electric powertrains, where the gasoline engine deactivates, leading to inefficiencies and excess fluid usage.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid vehicle powertrain system featuring an electric fluid pump and a flow controller that adjusts the lubrication flow rate in real-time based on the operating speed and torque of each component, using a look-up table to determine and optimize the fluid flow to each component, thereby minimizing excess pumping losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fluid pump is sized to supply sufficient lubrication fluid at the lowest engine speed under harshest conditions, then all components receive the required fluid flow rate during extreme operation, but under non-extreme circumstances the system over-supplies fluid to the various components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a variable speed electric motor to drive the fluid pump, replacing the traditional fixed-speed engine-driven pump. This dynamic configuration allows the pump speed to be adjusted in real-time based on actual lubrication demands, enabling the system to maintain reliable fluid supply under all operating conditions while avoiding over-pumping and associated energy losses during non-extreme operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters (speed) of the fluid pump dynamically. By controlling the electric motor speed variable, the pump can deliver the minimum required flow rate under each specific operating condition rather than maintaining a constant high flow rate, thus resolving the contradiction between ensuring sufficient supply and minimizing energy consumption.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a fluid pump is coupled with the engine and configured to pump at a multiple of the engine speed, then the system can supply fluid at consistent rates, but the scheme is not easily adapted to a hybrid gas-electric powertrain where the gasoline engine deactivates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the engine-mechanical coupling with an electric motor coupling. The fluid pump is no longer driven mechanically by the engine through belts or gears, but is instead driven by an independent electric motor. This substitution decouples the pump operation from engine status, allowing the system to function reliably whether the engine is running, deactivated, or in hybrid mode, thus resolving the adaptability issue while maintaining stable pump operation.
3Device complexity
If a traditional engine-driven fluid pump is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adjust fluid flow rate in real-time based on component demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a control system that monitors the operating conditions of various powertrain components and adjusts the fluid pump speed accordingly. Sensors detect parameters such as component temperature, speed, and load, and this information feeds back to the controller which modulates the electric motor speed to match actual lubrication demands, enabling real-time flow adjustment despite increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor-driven pump system serves multiple functions: it can operate independently of engine status, adjust flow rate dynamically, and adapt to hybrid powertrain configurations. This multi-functionality justifies the increased complexity by providing superior productivity and adaptability compared to traditional engine-driven pumps.
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 solution ensures that all components receive the necessary lubrication while minimizing energy consumption and fluid over-supply, optimizing fluid flow and reducing friction and heat generation in the powertrain components.
Implementation Method 1
An electrically actuated/electric fluid pump may be in fluid communication with the transmission, and/or each of the first and second traction motors
Implementation Method 2
A flow controller may be electrically connected to the fluid pump and configured to controllably modulate the operating speed of the fluid pump to adjust the system flow rate
Implementation Method 3
many components that require continuous fluid lubrication to both reduce internal friction
Implementation Method 4
components that require continuous fluid lubrication to both reduce internal friction, and to cool the working components
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a fluid pump to supply lubricating fluid to a plurality of fluid requiring components in a hybrid vehicle powertrain includes selecting a component-required flow rate for each respective component using a determined operating speed and torque for that respective component. Once the each component-required flow rate is selected, the system flow rate is set to the maximum component-required flow rate of the plurality of component-required flow rates. The fluid pump is then commanded to supply fluid to each of the plurality of fluid requiring components at the system flow rate.