Hybrid Electric Vehicle Controller Mode Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid electric vehicles rely on fixed thresholds to determine engine operation modes, which may not adapt to user preferences or real-world driving conditions, leading to inefficient fuel consumption and unnecessary engine starts.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle controller adjusts operational parameters based on user input for electric mode intensity, increasing the frequency and duration of electric mode operation as intensity increases, allowing for more flexible engine operation between electric and hybrid modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed thresholds are used to determine engine operation modes, then the control system is simple and reliable, but the system cannot adapt to user preferences or real-world driving conditions, leading to inefficient fuel consumption and unnecessary engine starts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of operational parameters based on user-selected electric mode intensity. The controller continuously modifies parameters such as battery state of charge thresholds, vehicle speed ranges, and power demand levels according to the user's preference setting, allowing the system to adapt to varying driving conditions and user preferences rather than relying on fixed thresholds
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes multiple operational parameters simultaneously based on electric mode intensity selection. When a user selects higher electric mode intensity, the system adjusts battery state of charge thresholds, modifies vehicle speed ranges for engine operation, and alters power demand thresholds, thereby achieving adaptability through coordinated parameter changes without requiring complete system redesign
2Use of energy by moving object
If the engine is kept off to improve fuel efficiency, then fuel consumption decreases, but the vehicle may lack sufficient power availability during high-demand driving conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the balance between fuel efficiency and power availability based on user-selected electric mode intensity. At higher intensity settings, the controller maintains the engine off for longer periods and at lower speeds to maximize fuel efficiency. When power demand exceeds electric motor capabilities or battery state of charge is insufficient, the system smoothly transitions to hybrid mode, ensuring adequate power delivery while optimizing fuel consumption according to user preferences
3Object-generated harmful factors
If electric mode is used more frequently to reduce emissions, then environmental impact decreases, but the battery state of charge may deplete faster
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically manages battery state of charge based on user-selected electric mode intensity. At higher intensity settings, the controller allows more frequent and extended electric mode operation to reduce emissions, while simultaneously adjusting battery management thresholds and monitoring charge levels. When battery state of charge approaches depletion thresholds, the system automatically transitions to hybrid mode or adjusts operating parameters to recharge the battery, maintaining an optimal balance between emission reduction and battery health
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle may include a controller programmed to adjust operational parameters defining conditions during which the vehicle is to be operated in electric mode in response to user input selecting an electric mode intensity. A frequency and total duration with which the vehicle is operated in electric mode increases for a given drive cycle as the electric mode intensity increases.