Hybrid Powertrain Controller Engine Operating Region Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid vehicle engines face challenges in maintaining efficient operating conditions due to varying driver demand power and road conditions, leading to increased fuel consumption when operating outside optimal low fuel consumption regions for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain operating method that provides different relationships between driver demand power and requested powertrain power to transition engine operating conditions between two low fuel consumption regions more quickly, utilizing a controller to adjust engine and motor operations to improve fuel efficiency and drivability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the engine operates across a wide range of engine speed and torque conditions to meet varying driver demand power and road conditions, then the engine can satisfy diverse driving requirements, but the engine fuel consumption increases when operating outside low fuel consumption regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of engine operating conditions by continuously adjusting engine speed and torque based on real-time driving conditions and battery state of charge. The controller dynamically transitions the engine between different operating modes (e.g., from low fuel consumption regions to high power output regions) to adapt to varying driver demand while minimizing time spent in high fuel consumption regions, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes engine operating parameters (speed, torque, load) based on detected driving conditions and battery state. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the engine can operate in low fuel consumption regions when possible, and transition to high power regions only when necessary to meet driver demand or charge the battery, thereby reducing overall fuel consumption while maintaining operational versatility.
2Loss of energy
If the engine operates in low fuel consumption regions to improve fuel efficiency, then fuel economy improves, but the engine response time to meet varying driver demand power increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares the engine for rapid response by pre-positioning it in optimal operating regions or pre-charging the battery when driving conditions permit. The controller anticipates potential power demands and adjusts engine operating points in advance to low fuel consumption regions that are also close to high power output capability, or charges the battery during low-demand periods, enabling faster response when sudden power demands occur without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically balances fuel efficiency and response speed by continuously monitoring driver demand patterns and adjusting engine operating points accordingly. When rapid response is anticipated or required, the controller transitions the engine to operating regions that provide both acceptable fuel efficiency and sufficient power output capability, resolving the trade-off between fuel consumption and response speed.
3Loss of energy
If the engine transitions between low fuel consumption operating regions to meet varying driving conditions, then fuel efficiency improves, but the complexity of controlling engine and motor operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single integrated controller that manages both the engine and motor operations, as well as battery charge/discharge decisions. This universal control approach consolidates multiple control functions into one system, reducing overall control complexity while enabling coordinated optimization of fuel efficiency across the hybrid powertrain. The controller simultaneously handles engine operating point selection, motor torque management, and energy storage coordination, simplifying the control architecture compared to separate control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for operating a hybrid powertrain that includes an engine and a motor/generator are described. The systems and methods provide different ways to transition engine operating conditions between two low engine fuel consumption operating regions that are separated by a higher engine fuel consumption operating region. In one example, engine torque is increased at a higher rate in a fuel economy mode to increase an amount of time an engine operates in one of the two low fuel consumption operating regions.