Hybrid Powertrain Clutch Control for SOC and Load Demand
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hybrid powertrain systems face challenges in controlling the switching between electric-only and hybrid modes, and in distributing power between internal combustion engines and electric motors, particularly in determining the optimal power contribution from each source based on battery state of charge and load demand.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid powertrain system with an electric machine that operates as both a motor and generator, mechanically coupled to a pump via a clutch, and a controller that manages power distribution by disengaging or engaging the engine based on battery state of charge and load demand, allowing the system to operate in electric-only or hybrid modes to optimize efficiency and emissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the internal combustion engine operates continuously to provide power, then reliable power is ensured, but fuel consumption increases and emissions are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different power sources (internal combustion engine and electric motor) based on real-time power demand and battery state of charge. The controller adjusts the operating mode continuously, transitioning between engine-only operation, hybrid operation, and electric-only operation to optimize fuel consumption while ensuring reliable power supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal combustion engine serves multiple functions: it can operate alone to provide full power, it can work in hybrid mode with the electric motor to reduce fuel consumption, and it can charge the battery during operation. This multi-functionality allows the engine to adapt to different operational requirements while minimizing energy loss.
2Power
If the internal combustion engine operates at high power, then sufficient power output is achieved, but noise level increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power distribution between the internal combustion engine and electric motor based on real-time power demand. When noise reduction is prioritized and power demand is moderate, the controller increases electric motor contribution, thereby reducing engine load and noise output while maintaining sufficient total power delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The electric motor acts as an intermediary that can supplement or replace engine power depending on noise requirements. By introducing this intermediate power source, the system can reduce engine operation during noise-sensitive periods while maintaining adequate power output through the electric motor.
3Power
If the internal combustion engine produces high power, then adequate power supply is ensured, but heat generation increases requiring large cooling packages
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically controls engine operating conditions based on power demand and thermal management requirements. By adjusting the engine's power contribution in real-time and utilizing the electric motor for supplemental power when available, the system reduces peak engine loads and associated heat generation, thereby minimizing cooling system requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The powertrain system provides multiple power delivery pathways: engine alone, hybrid combination, and electric motor alone. This multi-functionality enables thermal management by routing power demands away from the engine when thermal capacity is limited, using the electric motor to handle peak loads that would otherwise generate excessive heat in the engine.
4Loss of energy
If the hybrid powertrain system switches between electric mode and hybrid mode, then fuel efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors battery state of charge, power demand, and system operating conditions to dynamically adjust the powertrain mode. This feedback mechanism enables automatic switching between electric-only and hybrid modes based on real-time conditions, optimizing fuel efficiency while managing control complexity through rule-based decision logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The hybrid powertrain system autonomously manages its own operation by automatically selecting the optimal power source combination based on battery state of charge and power demand. The controller self-regulates the switching between modes without requiring complex external control systems, thereby improving fuel efficiency while keeping control architecture relatively simple.
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 achieves improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and noise reduction by optimizing power distribution between the engine and electric machine, enabling efficient operation in various load conditions and reducing the need for a large cooling package.
Implementation Method 1
an electric machine that is configured to operate as both an electric motor and a generator
Implementation Method 2
one or more batteries configured to provide power to, or receive power from, the electric machine
Data Source
AI summary
In some implementations, a controller for a hybrid powertrain system may cause disengagement of an engine from an electric machine via a clutch based on a state of charge (SOC) of one or more batteries connected to the electric machine at least meeting an SOC threshold. Disengagement of the engine may cause the hybrid powertrain system to operate in an electric-only mode for powering a load. The controller may detect a power event that includes at least one of a level of demand of the load exceeding a demand threshold, or the SOC of the one or more batteries being below the SOC threshold. The controller may cause, based on detection of the power event, engagement of the engine with the electric machine via the clutch. Engagement of the engine may enable the hybrid powertrain system to operate in a hybrid mode for powering the load.