Hybrid Vehicle Power Management Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid and electric vehicles face challenges in optimizing energy source utilization for enhanced performance, environmental benefits, and longevity of consumable parts, particularly in managing power distribution between engines and batteries to achieve desired performance characteristics and reduce emissions.
Innovation Solution
A power and efficiency management system that allows for multiple driver-selectable operating modes, including 'stealth', 'sport', and 'hill' modes, which adjust energy source usage to prioritize fuel economy, performance, or drivability, using a combination of electric and internal combustion power sources, along with regenerative braking and thermal management to extend battery life and reduce brake pad wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If the battery is used as the primary power source to reduce emissions, then environmental benefits are improved, but the battery generates heat and has limited energy capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful heat generated by the battery into a useful resource by implementing thermal management systems that transfer battery heat to heat exchangers, which then provide thermal energy for cabin heating and other vehicle systems, thereby eliminating waste heat and improving overall energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The battery system is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides electrical power for propulsion, stores thermal energy for heating, and acts as a heat source for thermal management, allowing the same component to address both power generation and thermal control needs
2Power
If the internal combustion engine is used to increase power output, then performance is improved, but fuel economy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operating modes that allow the vehicle to switch between different power source configurations in real-time based on driving conditions, enabling the engine to operate at optimal efficiency points while maintaining the ability to deliver high power output when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The powertrain is segmented into distinct electric and combustion components that can operate independently or in combination, allowing the vehicle to use the electric motor for low-speed efficient operation and the engine for high-power demands, thereby optimizing both performance and fuel economy
3Duration of action of stationary object
If regenerative braking is used to extend battery life, then battery longevity is improved, but brake pad wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system is designed to automatically switch between regenerative braking and friction braking based on real-time monitoring of battery state of charge and brake pad wear, allowing the system to self-regulate and optimize the balance between extending battery life and maintaining brake pad longevity
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating modes are provided to optimize performance, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates multiple sensors and feedback loops that continuously monitor vehicle operating conditions, battery state, and driver inputs, using this information to automatically select and adjust operating modes without requiring complex manual intervention from the driver
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 system enhances fuel economy, extends battery longevity, reduces emissions, and minimizes brake pad wear by optimizing energy use and thermal management across different driving modes, providing a customizable driving experience that balances performance and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
A battery may be utilized in combination with the traditional combustion engine to provide power to operate the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
an internal combustion engine as power sources to propel the vehicle
Implementation Method 3
along with regenerative braking
Implementation Method 4
The battery may be quite large, depending on the energy requirements of the vehicle, and will generate heat that is dissipated using various techniques
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling a mode of operation of a vehicle having a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS), an engine, and a drive motor coupled to the RESS and the engine, the drive motor selectively powered by at least one of the RESS and the engine includes a controller operable to adjust the vehicle to operate in a plurality of operating modes including a first mode in which the drive motor is powered by the RESS, a second mode in which the drive motor is powered more by the engine than the RESS. When the second mode of operation is selected, controller is configured to operate the engine as necessary to maintain the RESS at or above a predetermined state of charge.