Predictive Engine Stop-Start Control via VECU Coasting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle systems lack the ability to automatically predict and optimize coasting opportunities based on environmental and vehicle conditions, leading to inefficiencies in fuel consumption and emissions, as they rely solely on manual operation and limited sensor information.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle electronic control unit (VECU) monitors environmental and vehicle state sensors to predict coasting opportunities, controlling the powertrain and engine state by disengaging or shutting down the engine when conditions for efficient coasting are met, and re-engaging it when power is needed, using V2I and V2V communication for predictive decision-making.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the engine operates continuously to provide power, then power availability is maintained, but fuel consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The VECU performs predictive analysis using environmental sensors (cameras, LIDAR, radar) to detect coasting opportunities before they occur. By predicting traffic signals, vehicle queues, and road gradients in advance, the system prepares to coast at optimal moments, reducing fuel consumption while ensuring power is available when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts engine operation between running and coasting states based on real-time environmental conditions and vehicle state. The VECU continuously monitors sensor data and transitions the powertrain mode optimally, balancing fuel efficiency during coasting with power availability requirements.
2Productivity
If manual coasting control is used, then driver experience is maintained, but optimization of coasting opportunities is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The VECU autonomously manages coasting operations by integrating environmental sensor data, vehicle state information, and predictive algorithms. The system automatically determines optimal coasting opportunities and executes engine stop-start control without requiring driver intervention, maximizing fuel efficiency while managing complexity through integrated electronic control.
3Use of energy by moving object
If engine stop-start control is implemented, then fuel efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The VECU serves multiple functions: it processes environmental sensor data, predicts coasting opportunities, monitors vehicle state, and controls engine operation. By consolidating these functions in a single multi-functional control unit, the system achieves fuel efficiency improvements while managing complexity through integration rather than adding separate dedicated systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors vehicle state signals (engine speed, transmission state, battery charge) and environmental conditions, using this feedback to dynamically adjust coasting control decisions. This closed-loop feedback ensures optimal fuel efficiency while maintaining system reliability and adapting to changing conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
In some embodiments of the present disclosure, sensors mounted on a vehicle can allow opportunities for coasting to be predicted based on environmental conditions, route planning information, and/or vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-infrastructure signaling. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, these sensors can also predict a need for power and/or an end of a coast opportunity. These predictions can allow the vehicle to automatically enter a coasting state, and can predictively re-engage the engine and/or powertrain in order to make power available with no delay when desired by the operator.