Aerodynamic Shutter Control for Regenerative Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engines face inefficiencies due to aerodynamic drag, which is not effectively managed by existing cooling systems, leading to energy loss and increased mechanical brake wear during vehicle braking.
Innovation Solution
A shutter control system that selectively closes aerodynamic shutters based on brake pedal position, energy storage device state, and throttle position, combined with regenerative braking to convert lost energy into electrical energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the shutter is closed to decrease aerodynamic drag, then energy efficiency is improved, but cooling capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter is designed to be dynamically adjustable between open and closed positions based on real-time operating conditions. The control system monitors vehicle speed, braking state, and cooling requirements to optimize shutter position, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions rather than being fixed in one position.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter operates in periodic cycles, switching between open and closed states based on alternating cooling needs and drag reduction opportunities. During normal driving, it closes to reduce drag; during braking or high-temperature conditions, it opens to enable cooling, creating a periodic action pattern that balances competing requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If regenerative braking is used when shutter is closed, then energy recovery is improved, but braking performance deteriorates due to reduced aerodynamic drag
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors braking pedal input, vehicle speed, and shutter position to determine the appropriate braking strategy. When regenerative braking is activated, the system provides feedback to adjust shutter position or modulate braking force to maintain adequate deceleration performance while maximizing energy recovery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically by adjusting shutter position and braking force distribution. During regenerative braking with closed shutter, the control system may increase motor generator torque or adjust brake application to compensate for reduced aerodynamic drag, maintaining overall braking performance while enabling energy recovery.
3Temperature
If the shutter remains open for cooling, then cooling capability is improved, but aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter transitions from a static open/closed design to a dynamic system that adjusts position based on real-time conditions. The control module continuously evaluates cooling requirements versus drag penalties, adjusting shutter angle or position to optimize the balance between these competing factors throughout different driving phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the shutter's operational parameter from binary (open/closed) to continuous (variable position or angle). This allows fine-tuned adjustment where the shutter can be partially open to provide sufficient cooling while minimizing drag, or fully closed when cooling demand is low and drag reduction is prioritized.
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
Reduces aerodynamic drag, conserves energy by converting it into electrical energy during braking, and decreases mechanical brake wear by utilizing regenerative braking when shutters are closed.
Implementation Method 1
The regenerative braking control module controls a motor generator to perform regenerative braking when the shutter is closed
Implementation Method 2
The shutter control system selectively closes a shutter to decrease aerodynamic drag on the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A shutter control system comprises a shutter closing module and a regenerative braking control module. The shutter closing module selectively closes a shutter to decrease aerodynamic drag on the vehicle based on at least one of a brake pedal position, a state of charge of an energy storage device, and a throttle position. The shutter blocks airflow into an engine compartment of the vehicle when closed. The regenerative braking control module controls a motor generator to perform regenerative braking when the shutter is closed.