Multi-Engine Vehicle Drivetrain for Flexible Power and Cooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing demand for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly electric and hybrid-electric vehicles poses challenges in managing energy consumption and emissions, particularly in scenarios requiring multiple power sources and efficient energy transfer within vehicle powertrain systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a vehicle powertrain configuration that includes multiple independently operable generators, a battery system, and a motor/generator, allowing for various energy transfer modes, including active and optional electrical or mechanical power, and reverse cooling, controlled by a system controller to optimize fuel consumption and emissions based on load, terrain, and energy demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independently operable generators are used to provide flexible power supply, then adaptability and power distribution flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain system is divided into multiple independently operable generators (first generator and second generator), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows flexible power distribution where each generator can serve different functions or operate independently based on power demands, resolving the contradiction by providing adaptability through modular architecture while managing complexity through standardized independent units.
Solution Approach 2:
Each generator is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in different modes (power generation mode and reverse cooling mode) and serving multiple purposes. The generators can provide electrical power to the motor/generator for propulsion, charge the battery system, or operate in reverse cooling mode to provide cooling, thereby achieving universal adaptability across different operational scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
2Temperature
If generators operate in reverse cooling mode to provide cooling, then cooling capability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The generators are designed to operate in reverse cooling mode, inverting the typical power generation function. Instead of converting mechanical energy to electrical energy, the generators convert electrical energy from the battery system into mechanical cooling output. This inversion allows the same hardware to provide cooling capability when needed, improving temperature management while utilizing stored battery energy rather than requiring a separate dedicated cooling system.
Solution Approach 2:
The generators serve dual functions: power generation mode for propulsion and reverse cooling mode for thermal management. This multi-functionality allows the system to use the same components for both driving and cooling needs, improving cooling capability while managing energy consumption by drawing from the battery system when cooling is required rather than continuously operating cooling motors.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple energy transfer modes are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The powertrain system implements dynamic operational modes that can be adjusted in real-time based on power demands and cooling needs. The system can dynamically switch between different energy transfer modes: electrical power transfer from generators to motor/generator for propulsion, mechanical power transfer for direct driving, and reverse cooling mode for thermal management. This dynamic adaptability allows the system to optimize performance for different scenarios while the control system manages the complexity through mode-based control strategies.
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 configuration enhances energy efficiency and reduces emissions by allowing flexible operation of generators and energy distribution, supporting both propulsion and cooling needs, while maintaining a stable state of charge and providing power to external sources when necessary.
Implementation Method 1
a motor/generator coupled to a drive axle and configured to selectively receive the electrical power from the first generator, the second generator, the battery system, or a combination thereof to provide rotational power to the drive axle to propel the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
a first generator configured to operate in a first mode to burn one or more fuels to generate electrical power... a second generator individually operable from the first generator and configured to operate in the first mode to burn one or more fuels to generate electrical power
Implementation Method 3
selectively supplying electrical power from the first generator, the second generator, the battery system, or a combination thereof to the motor/generator
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of providing a configurable powertrain in a vehicle are disclosed. The powertrain is capable of operating in a plurality of powertrain configurations and includes one or more reversible generators, a battery system, a motor/generator (M/G), and one or more drive axles. The generators generate and supply electrical power to the battery system, the M/G, an external power source, or a combination thereof. The battery system selectively supplies electrical power to the generators, the M/G, the external power source, or a combination thereof. The one or more generators also selectively supply cooling to the battery system, a cab of the vehicle, a trailer or external enclosure or structure of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. The powertrain configurations of the vehicle include operating the components of the powertrain in various combinations based on demands of the vehicle and/or external power sources or structures.