RSSA Powertrain Torque Control via DC/DC Converter Ripple Compensation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current control strategies for regenerative start/stop alternator (RSSA) powertrain systems face limitations in efficiency and integration with other systems, necessitating improved control methods for efficient operation in engine cranking, generator, and engine assist modes.

Innovation Solution

A controller is configured to receive torque requests and selectively control the RSSA powertrain system to operate in engine cranking, generator, and engine assist modes by determining target torques based on DC/DC converter conditions, including low and high voltage sides, and ripple compensation, to optimize torque distribution to the motor/generator.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If current control strategies are used for RSSA powertrain systems, then basic operation is achieved, but efficiency and system integration are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy utilization efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically adjusts torque distribution based on real-time operating conditions, state of charge levels, and power demands. The controller continuously monitors system parameters and modifies control strategies across different operating modes (engine cranking, generator, and engine assist modes) to optimize energy utilization while adapting to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters including torque targets, power flow directions, and control mode selections based on detected system conditions. By adjusting parameters such as the target torque for the motor/generator and selecting different operational modes, the system optimizes energy efficiency without requiring fundamental redesign of the powertrain architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If torque management is optimized across different operational modes, then system performance is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem performanceVSAvoidcontrol integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed to handle multiple operational modes (engine cranking, generator mode, and engine assist mode) through a single unified controller. This multi-functional approach allows the same control architecture to manage diverse operating conditions, improving system performance across all modes while avoiding the need for separate control systems for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller continuously monitors system state including torque requests, powertrain operating conditions, and electrical system parameters. Based on this feedback, the system adjusts torque distribution and mode selection in real-time, enabling optimized performance across different operational modes while maintaining manageable control complexity through closed-loop control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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 enhances the efficiency and integration of RSSA powertrain systems by ensuring optimal torque management across different operational modes, improving energy utilization and system performance.

Implementation Method 1

motor/generator (108)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

DC/DC converter (206) having a high voltage side (203) and a low voltage side (211)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical energy conversion and regulation:

Data Source

PatentUS9162669B2Systems and methods for control of powertrains with regenerative start/stop alternator functionality
Publication Date: 2015.10.20 CUMMINS INC
  • US9162669B2 patent drawing
  • US9162669B2 patent drawing
  • US9162669B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are disclosed for controlling a torque output of a motor/generator via one or more torque commands generated by a controller. The target output being determined by a target torque based upon a low voltage side target of a DC/DC converter including a battery operatively coupled to one or more low voltage loads, a high voltage side target of the DC/DC converter including a supercapacitor operatively coupled with an inverter that is operatively coupled to the motor/generator, and a ripple compensation torque.