Hybrid Powertrain Range Maximization via Incipient EV State Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hybrid powertrain systems face challenges in maximizing the range capability of electric vehicles, particularly in efficiently managing the charging and discharging of electric energy storage devices to optimize battery state of charge and meet operator demands for torque and auxiliary functions.
Innovation Solution
The system determines an incipient electric vehicle operating state and sets a preferred charge/discharge rate for the electric energy storage device to a maximum charging rate, controlling the powertrain to an engine state that is ON to charge the device, while coordinating the operation of the engine, electric machines, and transmission to ensure maximum range capability and meet driveline torque requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If the charge/discharge rate is set to maximum charging rate to maximize range capability, then the energy storage device charges faster, but the engine must remain ON consuming fuel and the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system determines an incipient electric vehicle operating state in advance and proactively charges the energy storage device to maximum capacity before the vehicle needs to operate in electric mode, ensuring maximum range capability is achieved without requiring complex real-time control during electric operation
Solution Approach 2:
The powertrain system automatically manages its own charging needs by monitoring its operating state and autonomously controlling the engine to charge the energy storage device when appropriate, eliminating the need for external charging infrastructure and reducing operational complexity
2Reliability
If the engine is kept ON to charge the energy storage device at maximum rate, then the battery state of charge is optimized, but fuel consumption increases and emissions are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The engine operates in periodic cycles, alternating between charging mode and shutdown mode, rather than running continuously. The controller monitors the energy storage device charge state and only activates the engine when charging is beneficial, reducing overall fuel consumption while maintaining adequate battery charge levels
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the charge/discharge rate parameter based on the determined incipient operating state, setting it to maximum charging rate only when the engine is already running and charging, rather than maintaining a constant engine operation, thereby optimizing the balance between battery charge and fuel consumption
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
This approach effectively maximizes the range capability of electric vehicles by optimizing the charging of the electric energy storage device, ensuring that the battery state of charge remains within a predetermined range while meeting operator torque requests and auxiliary power functions, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and performance of the powertrain.
Implementation Method 1
an on-board electrical energy storage device
Implementation Method 2
Known engines can also generate torque which may be transmitted to the electric machine to generate electric power
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle has a powertrain including an engine and at least one electric machine. A method for maximizing range capability of the vehicle while operating in an electric vehicle operating state includes determining an incipient electric vehicle operating state of the powertrain, setting a preferred charge/discharge rate of an electric energy storage device to a maximum charging rate, and controlling the powertrain to an operating state including an engine state that is ON to effect charging the electrical energy storage device based on the maximum charging rate.