Vehicle Propulsion Heat Coordination for Cabin Thermal Demand
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems struggle to efficiently coordinate heat generation and distribution, particularly in hybrid vehicles, where the heat produced as wasted power may not be sufficient to meet the thermal demands of the passenger cabin and other systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for heat coordination that involves operating a propulsion system to generate heat as wasted power, utilizing a device such as a heater core or windshield defroster, and employing a heat transfer system to transfer heat from the propulsion system to the device. This system includes a computerized processor that determines the minimum useful waste thermal power required, monitors the desired output torque, and uses a cost-based determination to set the propulsion system operating point, thereby optimizing heat generation and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the propulsion system operates to generate heat as wasted power, then the thermal demand of the passenger cabin and devices is met, but the energy efficiency of the propulsion system deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system converts the harmful wasted heat from the propulsion system into a beneficial resource by transferring it to devices that require thermal power, such as the passenger cabin heating system or windshield defroster. The heat transfer system captures waste thermal energy and redirects it to meet thermal demands, transforming an energy loss into a useful function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operating parameters of the propulsion system based on real-time thermal demands. By monitoring the thermal requirements of devices and the current operating state, the system modifies propulsion parameters to optimize the balance between meeting thermal demands and maintaining energy efficiency.
2Reliability
If the heat transfer system transfers heat from the propulsion system to the device, then the device operates effectively, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heat transfer system is designed to serve multiple functions and devices simultaneously. It can transfer heat to various devices such as the passenger cabin heating system, windshield defroster, or other thermal loads based on their needs. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single versatile heat management infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat transfer system acts as an intermediary component that bridges the propulsion system and various thermal-demand devices. Rather than requiring direct coupling between the propulsion system and each individual device, the heat transfer system serves as a central mediator that distributes thermal energy where needed, simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the computerized processor uses cost-based determination to set the propulsion system operating point, then the energy cost is minimized, but the computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary computational analysis by pre-calculating cost functions and optimal operating points based on anticipated thermal demands and propulsion system characteristics. This advance preparation allows the processor to make rapid, informed decisions about operating points without requiring complex real-time computations during actual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the computerized processor continuously monitors the actual thermal demands, propulsion system performance, and energy costs. Based on this feedback, the processor dynamically adjusts the operating point to minimize energy costs while meeting thermal requirements, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions.
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
The system effectively manages heat generation and distribution within vehicles, ensuring that the thermal demands of the passenger cabin and other systems are met while minimizing energy costs and optimizing propulsion system performance.
Implementation Method 1
operating a heat transfer system configured for transferring the heat generated by the propulsion system from the propulsion system to the device
Data Source
AI summary
A method for heat coordination is provided. The method includes operating a propulsion system that generates heat as wasted power, operating a device utilizing the heat generated by the propulsion system, and operating a heat transfer system configured for transferring the heat generated by the propulsion system from the propulsion system to the device. The method further includes, within a computerized processor, determining a minimum useful waste thermal power to operate the device, monitoring a desired output torque for the propulsion system, and utilizing a cost-based determination to determine a propulsion system operating point based upon the desired output torque and the minimum useful waste thermal power to operate the device. The method further includes utilizing the propulsion system operating point to control the propulsion system.


