Hybrid Vehicle Mode Switching for Fast Charging With Lower Fuel Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
In hybrid vehicles operating in direct drive mode, increasing torque to enhance electric power generation for quick battery charging leads to deteriorated engine operation efficiency, which in turn increases fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle that switches from direct drive mode to series mode when the required charging electric power exceeds the chargeable electric power in direct drive mode, thereby optimizing fuel consumption and battery charging efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If torque is increased to enhance electric power generation in direct drive mode, then battery charging speed is improved, but engine operation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between direct drive mode and series mode based on real-time assessment of required charging power versus chargeable power. This dynamic mode selection allows the system to optimize between charging speed and fuel efficiency by selecting the most appropriate operating mode for current conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control method changes the operational parameters of the hybrid vehicle system by switching between two distinct operating modes (direct drive and series). In direct drive mode, the engine is directly connected to driving wheels for efficient propulsion. In series mode, the engine connects to the generator for optimized electric power generation, thereby achieving high-speed battery charging while maintaining engine operation efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If direct drive mode is selected for efficient operation, then fuel consumption is reduced, but electric power generation capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic mode switching between direct drive mode (for fuel efficiency) and series mode (for high power generation). The control device continuously monitors whether the required charging power exceeds the chargeable power in direct drive mode, and switches modes accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to varying power generation requirements while maintaining overall fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The engine system is designed to perform multiple functions through two operational modes: in direct drive mode, it provides efficient mechanical propulsion; in series mode, it functions as an optimized electric power generation source. This multi-functionality allows the hybrid vehicle to achieve both fuel efficiency and high charging capability as needed.
3Productivity
If series mode is used for high-speed charging, then battery charging efficiency is improved, but overall fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than operating continuously in series mode for high-speed charging, the system dynamically selects between direct drive mode and series mode based on real-time conditions. The control device assesses whether required charging power exceeds chargeable power in direct drive mode, and only switches to series mode when necessary, thereby achieving high charging efficiency only when needed while maintaining fuel efficiency during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies series mode (excessive action for charging) only partially and selectively when high-speed charging is required, rather than continuously. This partial application of the series mode allows the system to achieve high charging efficiency when necessary while avoiding the continuous fuel consumption penalty associated with series mode operation.
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
The method effectively suppresses the deterioration of fuel consumption in hybrid vehicles by selecting the appropriate mode based on charging demands, ensuring efficient battery charging and reduced overall fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the engine is further connected to a generator and used as an electric power generation source
Implementation Method 2
the motor supplied with electric power generated by the generator is used as a driving source
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle is used for controlling a hybrid vehicle including: an engine connected to a generator and configured to be connected to a driving wheel; and a motor configured to be connected to the driving wheel, the motor being driven by electric power supplied from a battery connected to the generator. The control method including: in a direct drive mode in which the engine is connected to the driving wheel, when the battery is charged and required charging electric power per unit time exceeds a threshold value, switching, by releasing a connection state between the engine and the driving wheel and connecting the motor to the driving wheel, to a series mode in which the engine drives the generator.