Hybrid Powertrain Mode Control via Battery SOC Thresholds
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) face challenges in efficiently managing dynamic operating modes and battery life, as they often operate in suboptimal conditions, leading to reduced range and battery longevity due to inadequate control over powertrain configurations and energy management.
Innovation Solution
A dual motor-dual clutch powertrain system with a controller that dynamically selects between charge-depleting and charge-sustaining modes based on battery state of charge and vehicle speed, optimizing energy usage and extending battery life by coordinating engine, transmission, and battery pack operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single powertrain configuration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different operating modes and drive conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain system dynamically switches between series and parallel configurations based on real-time operating conditions and battery state of charge. The controller continuously monitors vehicle speed, acceleration demands, and battery SOC to determine the optimal configuration, allowing the system to adapt its structure dynamically rather than being fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The powertrain is designed with dual capabilities to function in both series and parallel modes, as well as all-electric mode. The same physical components (ICE, MG1, MG2, battery) serve multiple functions across different operating modes, making the system universally applicable to various drive conditions without requiring separate dedicated systems
2Length of moving object
If charge-depleting mode is used when SOC is high, then electric range is extended, but battery life deteriorates due to excessive discharge cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors battery state of charge and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the operating mode. When SOC falls below the threshold, the system automatically transitions from charge-depleting to charge-sustaining mode, preventing excessive discharge and protecting battery life while still maximizing electric range when conditions are favorable
3Reliability
If charge-sustaining mode is used when SOC is low, then battery life is protected, but electric range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on real-time SOC monitoring. When SOC is low, the system transitions to charge-sustaining mode to protect the battery, but this transition is temporary and reversible. Once SOC recovers to the threshold level, the system can switch back to charge-depleting mode to extend electric range, creating a dynamic balance between battery protection and range optimization
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple operating modes are implemented, then adaptability to different drive conditions is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system manages multiple operating modes by monitoring key parameters (vehicle speed, acceleration demand, battery SOC) and transitioning between modes based on threshold comparisons. This parameter-based control approach simplifies the complexity by using clear, measurable criteria rather than complex decision algorithms, making the multi-mode system more manageable
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and/or methods for controlling dual motor-dual clutch powertrains for HEV and PHEV vehicles are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed comprising: determining the state of charge (SOC) of said batteries; determining the speed of the vehicle; if the SOC is greater than a given first threshold, selecting a charge-depleting operational mode of said vehicle; during operation of said vehicle, if the SOC is less than a given second threshold, selecting a charge-sustaining operating mode of said vehicle. In another embodiment, a system having a controller that operates the powertrain according to various embodiments is disclosed.