Powertrain Prediction Selection for Fuel and Emission Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control technologies do not adequately utilize multiple prediction information items of equal accuracy, leading to insufficient fuel consumption reduction and potential emission deterioration due to inaccurate predictions.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control device that predicts speeds and accelerations using multiple models, calculates fuel consumption for each prediction, and selects the most accurate model based on control margins to optimize powertrain control, including engine, generator, inverter, and drive motor operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single prediction information item is used to select an optimum control method, then the control system is simple, but multiple prediction information items of equal accuracy are not sufficiently utilized, resulting in insufficient fuel consumption reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The prediction system is segmented into multiple independent prediction information items (first prediction item from accelerator pedal operation, second prediction item from vehicle speed and time). Each prediction item is processed separately through its own prediction model, allowing the system to evaluate multiple scenarios independently and select the most appropriate control method without overwhelming complexity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If prediction information items are used to improve fuel consumption, then energy efficiency improves, but inaccurate predictions may cause deterioration of emission quality (increases in HC, CO, NOx, and PN)
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where prediction results are continuously evaluated against actual vehicle operation. When prediction accuracy is insufficient or when predictions would lead to harmful emissions, the system adjusts or overrides the predicted control actions. This feedback loop ensures that fuel consumption improvement does not compromise emission quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes control parameters (engine output, gear ratio, regenerative motor operation) based on prediction accuracy and emission constraints. When prediction accuracy is low, the system adjusts parameters to maintain emission standards while still seeking fuel efficiency improvements where possible.
3Productivity
If aggressive powertrain control adjustments are made based on predictions, then fuel consumption improves, but emission quality deteriorates due to inaccurate predictions
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial control adjustments based on prediction confidence levels. When prediction accuracy is high, more aggressive control actions are taken to maximize fuel savings. When accuracy is uncertain, only conservative adjustments are made, preventing harmful emissions while still achieving some fuel efficiency improvement. This partial action approach balances productivity gains with reliability constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a vehicle control device capable of improving fuel consumption while reducing deterioration of emission by appropriately controlling a powertrain system of a vehicle. A vehicle control device includes: a prediction unit configured to predict speeds or accelerations of a vehicle based on a plurality of prediction models; a fuel consumption information calculation unit configured to calculate fuel consumption for each of a plurality of prediction results obtained by the prediction unit; a selection unit configured to select any one of the plurality of prediction results; and a powertrain control unit configured to control at least one of an engine, a generator, an inverter, a drive motor, and a transmission of the vehicle based on the prediction result selected by the selection unit.