Hybrid Powertrain Control for Engine-Motor Power Split
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engines are associated with environmental pollution, high fuel consumption, noise, and heat production, and existing control systems for hybrid powertrain systems do not effectively manage the flow of power between engines and electric motors.
Innovation Solution
A controller for a hybrid powertrain system that manages power distribution between an engine and an electric machine based on demand levels, using a ratio of power outputs from both components to optimize efficiency, reduce noise, and charge batteries efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an internal combustion engine is used to power a machine, then reliable power is provided, but emissions harm the environment and human health
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor in a hybrid powertrain system. The engine and motor are merged to work together, allowing the engine to operate in optimized zones while the electric motor provides supplemental power, thereby reducing emissions while maintaining reliable power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid powertrain system serves multiple functions: the engine provides primary power, the electric motor provides supplemental power and can also function as a generator to charge the battery. This multi-functionality allows the system to reduce emissions while maintaining reliability across various operating conditions.
2Power
If an internal combustion engine operates continuously, then power is provided, but fuel consumption increases during idling or waiting times
Solution Approach 1:
The control system periodically shuts off the engine during idling or waiting periods when power is not needed, and activates it only when power demand requires. This periodic operation eliminates unnecessary fuel consumption during idle times while maintaining power availability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid system uses the electric motor to provide power during low-demand periods, allowing the engine to remain off. The battery stores energy when the engine is running efficiently, creating a self-servicing system that manages its own fuel consumption based on real-time power demands.
3Power
If an internal combustion engine operates, then power is generated, but noise is produced that obstructs communication
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor provides partial power output during operations where full power is not required. By using the electric motor for portion of the power demand, the engine can operate at lower levels or shut off completely during noise-sensitive periods, reducing noise while still meeting power requirements through the combined hybrid system.
4Power
If an internal combustion engine operates, then power is provided, but significant heat is produced requiring large cooling packages
Solution Approach 1:
The hybrid powertrain merges the engine and electric motor systems, allowing the engine to operate in more efficient, lower-temperature zones. The electric motor handles peak power demands that would otherwise require the engine to operate at high temperatures, thereby reducing overall heat generation and cooling requirements.
5Productivity
If a control system manages power flow in a hybrid powertrain, then power distribution is optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors power demand, battery state of charge, and operating conditions, then adjusts power distribution between the engine and electric motor in real-time. This feedback mechanism optimizes power flow efficiency while managing system complexity through intelligent control algorithms that adapt to changing conditions.
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 controller enhances fuel efficiency, reduces noise, and optimizes power usage by dynamically adjusting power distribution between the engine and electric machine, improving overall performance and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
causing, by the controller and based on the first value of the power level associated with the load not being equal to or exceeding the power threshold, power to be provided to charge one or more batteries, of the hybrid powertrain system, via an electric machine that is driven via the engine
Implementation Method 2
one or more batteries configured to provided power to, or receive power from, the electric machine
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a controller of a hybrid powertrain system may detect a level of demand associated with the load of the hybrid powertrain system. The controller may cause power to be proportionally provided to drive the load via the engine and the electric machine in accordance with a ratio between a first power output provided via the engine and a second power output provided via the electric machine, the ratio being associated with the level of the demand, a control mode associated with the hybrid powertrain system, and an operating mode associated with the hybrid powertrain system.