Multi-Engine Hybrid Power Generation for Fuel-Efficient Vehicle Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

In large-sized commercial vehicles, hybrid systems often operate engines at inefficient sections due to preset logic, leading to high fuel consumption and unreasonable operational results.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid system for vehicles featuring multiple engine power generation modules with small displacement engines, where a control unit selectively operates each engine to match the required output, optimizing efficiency by connecting optimal efficiency sections from individual engine maps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a single large-displacement engine is used in a hybrid system, then the vehicle can meet high power requirements, but the engine operates at low efficiency in certain sections leading to high fuel consumption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle power outputVSAvoidfuel consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the engine power generation function into multiple independent modules (first engine power generation module, second engine power generation module, etc.), each with its own engine. This segmentation allows selective operation of individual modules based on required output, enabling the system to operate engines at efficient points even during high power demand by combining multiple modules rather than overloading a single large engine.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If preset logic controls engine operation in a hybrid system, then the control strategy is simple to implement, but the engine is forced to operate in low efficiency sections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol implementationVSAvoidfuel consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit dynamically selects which engine power generation modules to operate and how many modules to activate based on real-time required output. This dynamic control strategy, implemented through derived efficiency maps and operational rules, allows the system to adapt to varying load conditions and maintain engine operation within efficient sections, improving fuel consumption without excessive complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If multiple engine power generation modules are used, then optimal efficiency can be maintained across different output requirements, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel consumptionVSAvoidsystem configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit changes operational parameters by deriving overall engine efficiency maps from individual module efficiency maps and determining optimal operation orders. This parameter-based control approach manages the complexity of multiple modules through systematic algorithms rather than complex mechanical configurations, enabling efficient operation while keeping control logic manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Power

If engines operate continuously to meet high output requirements, then power demand is satisfied, but engine durability decreases due to operation in low efficiency sections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle power outputVSAvoidengine durability
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the engine power generation into multiple modules, the system can distribute operational load across different engines. When high output is required, multiple modules operate together at their respective efficient points rather than forcing a single engine to operate continuously at inefficient high-load conditions, thereby improving durability while meeting power demands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit determines operation orders for multiple engine modules and can alternate between them, creating a periodic operation pattern. This allows engines to cycle between active and standby states, reducing continuous operation wear and improving overall system durability while maintaining required power output through coordinated module operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 allows for selective operation of engines at optimal efficiency levels, reducing fuel consumption and increasing durability by alternating engine operation, while actively responding to various vehicle output requirements.

Implementation Method 1

a generator driven by the engine to generate power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a battery configured to store power output from the plurality of the engine power generation modules

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy storage: Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 3

a converter configured to convert the power output from the generator and output the power to the battery or the plurality of driving modules

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPower conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS12319265B2Hybrid system for vehicle provided with plurality of engine power generation modules
Publication Date: 2025.06.03 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US12319265B2 patent drawing
  • US12319265B2 patent drawing
  • US12319265B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A hybrid system for a vehicle having an engine and a driving motor includes a plurality of engine power generation modules for generating power with an operation of the engine, a battery for storing power output from the engine power generation modules, a plurality of driving modules for driving the driving motor for driving wheels of the vehicle by the power output from the engine power generation modules or the battery, and a control unit for selectively controlling operations of the engine power generation modules and the driving modules to match a required output of the vehicle.