Hybrid Powertrain Torque Control via Dual Model Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid vehicles face challenges in accurately estimating and controlling torque in internal combustion engines, which affects the optimization of hybrid powertrain operation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving monitoring throttle intake pressure, calculating torque capacities using pressure and air mass models, and sending the final torque capacity to a hybrid control processor to actuate the throttle, ensuring optimal engine operation by combining estimates from multiple torque models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single torque model is used for estimation, then the control system is simple, but the torque estimation accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the torque estimation task into multiple parallel models: a pressure-based model that uses intake manifold pressure to estimate torque, and an air mass-based model that uses measured air mass flow to estimate torque. Each model independently processes its respective inputs to generate torque estimates, which are then combined to improve overall accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the outputs from the pressure-based torque model and the air mass-based torque model into a single final torque estimate. This combination leverages the strengths of both models—the pressure model's responsiveness and the air mass model's accuracy—to produce a more reliable torque estimation than either model could achieve alone.
2Measurement precision
If multiple torque models are combined, then the torque estimation accuracy improves, but the calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations by pre-characterizing the relationships between intake manifold pressure and torque, and between air mass flow and torque, through separate models. During real-time operation, these pre-established models allow for efficient computation of torque estimates from readily available sensor inputs, reducing the computational burden of combining multiple models.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the engine operates without optimal torque control, then the system is simpler to operate, but fuel efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the estimated torque from the combined models is continuously compared with the actual torque demand. The throttle actuator receives control signals based on this comparison, adjusting the intake manifold pressure to maintain optimal torque production. This closed-loop feedback ensures the engine operates efficiently while automatically adapting to changing driving conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a hybrid powertrain having an internal combustion engine monitors a throttle intake pressure and calculates a first torque capacity from a pressure model using the throttle intake pressure as an input. The method determines a maximum expected air mass from the monitored throttle intake pressure and calculates a second torque capacity from an air mass model using the maximum expected air mass volume as an input. The method calculates a final torque capacity as a function of the first torque capacity and the second torque capacity, and sends the final torque capacity to the hybrid control processor. An engine control module receives a torque request calculated as a function of the final torque capacity. A manifold pressure request is calculated as a function of the torque request, and a throttle is actuated as a function of the manifold pressure request.