Solid-State Switching Control for Stirling-Electric Hybrid Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control system algorithms for hybrid electric vehicles are incompatible with series hybrid electric vehicle designs, particularly in managing electrical power distribution and regulation for Stirling-electric hybrid vehicles, which require unique control strategies due to continuous combustion at atmospheric pressure and distinct power modes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-controlled electrical system with a solid-state switching device and a control algorithm that manages, regulates, and allocates electrical current flow between various power sources and components, enabling switching between all-electric and hybrid modes, optimizing power distribution in a series hybrid configuration, including dynamic braking and charging/recharging operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a Stirling engine is used as a primary power source in a hybrid vehicle, then fuel efficiency is improved and emissions are reduced, but the engine cannot generate useful power immediately after cold start and is not responsive to varying power demands
Solution Approach 1:
The power generation function is divided into two separate systems: a Stirling engine optimized for efficient steady-state power generation and a separate internal combustion engine optimized for responsive power delivery. This segmentation allows each engine to operate in its optimal performance regime, with the Stirling engine handling base load and the ICE handling transient demands.
Solution Approach 2:
An electrical energy storage system (battery) is introduced as an intermediary between the Stirling engine and the power demand. The battery buffers the mismatch between the slow response of the Stirling engine and the immediate power requirements, allowing the Stirling engine to operate continuously at optimal efficiency points while the battery handles transient power needs.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a Stirling engine is used in a hybrid vehicle, then fewer noxious emissions are produced, but the engine requires heating to operating temperature before generating useful power
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary warming of the Stirling engine using the auxiliary internal combustion engine before the Stirling engine is ready to provide useful power. This preliminary action ensures the Stirling engine reaches optimal operating temperature quickly, after which it can operate continuously in its efficient temperature range.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste heat from the auxiliary internal combustion engine is utilized to pre-heat the Stirling engine during cold start conditions. This self-service approach uses otherwise wasted thermal energy to accelerate the warm-up process, reducing the time penalty associated with Stirling engine thermal inertia.
3Productivity
If a computer-controlled system with solid state switching device is implemented, then power distribution and regulation is optimized, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal management system that handles multiple functions: monitoring battery charge state, managing power flow between engines and electrical loads, controlling the solid state switching device, and coordinating the operation of both Stirling and internal combustion engines. This multi-functionality consolidates control logic into a single integrated system rather than requiring separate control systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The solid state switching device enables dynamic reconfiguration of the electrical system topology in real-time based on operating conditions. The controller dynamically adjusts switching states to optimize power flow paths, battery charging/discharging rates, and engine load distribution, allowing the system to adapt continuously to changing power demands and environmental conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system algorithm is provided for the computer control of a solid-state switching device in a Stirling-electric hybrid vehicle. The algorithm satisfies the demands for electrical energy management, regulation, allocation and distribution to the electrical system of the vehicle during the operation thereof. The control system controls the management, regulation, allocation and distribution of electrical current throughout the vehicle's electrical system in response to the commands of the vehicle operator. This includes the operation of wheel motors, electrical storage systems, the drivetrain and a plurality of other components, accessories and subsystems.