Powertrain Torque Arbitration via Segmented Control Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing powertrain control systems become cumbersome and difficult to troubleshoot as they integrate more modules and actuators that affect torque, particularly in hybrid vehicles, where the architecture is complex and inefficient in coordinating torque requests between various modules and actuators.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain control system that includes axle torque request modules, an arbitration module, propulsion torque request modules, and a control module to generate and manage net torque requests, converting axle torque requests into propulsion torque requests based on gear ratios, tire diameter, and transmission gear ratios, and determining the appropriate torque distribution between engine and electric motor in hybrid vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If more modules and actuators are integrated into the powertrain system, then the system's functionality and versatility are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of troubleshooting increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the powertrain control system into distinct functional modules: axle torque request modules, axle torque arbitration module, propulsion torque request modules, propulsion torque arbitration module, and propulsion torque control module. Each module handles specific torque-related functions independently, making the overall complex system manageable through modular organization. This segmentation allows the system to integrate multiple actuators (engine, electric motor, transmission, accessories) without proportionally increasing complexity, as each actuator's torque requests are processed through dedicated modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary arbitration modules that mediate between multiple torque requesting modules and the final torque actuators. The axle torque arbitration module consolidates requests from various sources (cruise control, traction control, brakes), and the propulsion torque arbitration module coordinates between axle torque requests and propulsion system capabilities. These intermediaries simplify the control architecture by providing a centralized coordination point, reducing the complexity of direct multi-to-many connections between modules and actuators.
2Ease of operation
If direct control of torque actuators by multiple modules is implemented, then each module can independently control torque, but the system becomes difficult to maintain and troubleshoot
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules, each responsible for specific torque control aspects. Axle torque request modules handle vehicle-level torque requirements, while propulsion torque request modules handle engine/motor-level requirements. The arbitration modules segment the coordination function, separating it from individual actuator control. This segmentation enables independent troubleshooting of each module without requiring system-wide analysis, improving maintainability while preserving independent torque control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Arbitration modules serve as intermediaries that receive torque requests from multiple independent modules and coordinate their outputs. The axle torque arbitration module mediates between various vehicle function modules (cruise control, traction control, brake torque management), and the propulsion torque arbitration module mediates between axle torque requests and propulsion system capabilities. This intermediary structure maintains independent module operation while simplifying troubleshooting by providing a centralized coordination point that can be analyzed separately from individual actuators.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hybrid vehicle powertrain is integrated with existing torque-modifying modules, then the system provides more torque sources, but the architecture becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the torque control architecture with universal modules that can handle multiple torque sources (engine, electric motor, transmission, accessories) through the same control structure. The axle torque arbitration module and propulsion torque arbitration module are designed to work with any combination of torque sources, making the system universally applicable to conventional and hybrid powertrains. This multi-functionality allows hybrid vehicles to integrate additional torque sources without requiring separate control architectures for each actuator type.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system segments torque management into vehicle-level (axle torque) and propulsion-level (engine/motor torque) modules, with arbitration layers that can accommodate any number of torque sources. Each torque source has its own request module that interfaces with the standardized arbitration structure, allowing hybrid vehicles to add electric motors or other torque sources without restructuring the entire control architecture. This segmentation enables scalable integration of torque sources while maintaining architectural simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A powertrain control system for a vehicle includes a plurality of axle torque request modules that generate respective axle torque requests based on respective performance criteria of a vehicle, an axle torque arbitration module that generates a net axle torque request based on the plurality of axle torque requests, a plurality of propulsion torque request modules that generate respective propulsion torque requests based on respective performance criteria of an engine of the vehicle, a propulsion torque arbitration module that determines a net engine torque request based on the net axle torque request and the plurality of propulsion torque requests, and a propulsion torque control module that controls a plurality of actuators based on the net engine torque request such that the engine produces an output torque in accordance with the net engine torque request.