Electric Motor Torque Control for Towed Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling the torque of electric motors in towed electric vehicles are imprecise and unsuitable for advanced towing solutions, such as 'jockeying' or 'last mile' access, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs in vehicle sharing and logistical challenges.
Innovation Solution
A method that measures longitudinal force, speed, and electric power to calculate a torque setpoint for the electric motor, incorporating feedback loops to regulate torque and power, allowing for precise control and adaptation to different towing scenarios, including vehicle sharing and long-distance towing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior art methods control torque as a function of measured parameters only, then the control is simpler, but the precision of electric motor control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously measures actual torque, speed, and power parameters, compares them with reference values, and adjusts the torque setpoint accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism significantly improves control precision by compensating for deviations in real-time, while the feedback architecture is designed to be modular and integrated into the existing control unit, limiting the increase in system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art methods use basic torque control, then the system is easier to operate, but advanced towing solutions such as jockeying and last mile access cannot be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control strategies that automatically adjust torque characteristics based on the detected towing mode (normal towing, jockeying, last mile access). The system dynamically switches between different control algorithms and parameter sets depending on the operational context, enabling versatile towing solutions while maintaining ease of operation through automatic mode recognition and adaptation without requiring manual intervention from the user.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the towed vehicle exerts constant force on the towing vehicle, then the towing operation is simpler, but energy expenditure increases and control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes torque control parameters based on operating conditions, including speed-dependent torque curves, power-based torque limiting, and adaptive torque setpoints that respond to actual vehicle performance. This approach optimizes energy expenditure by preventing excessive torque demands while maintaining precise control through continuous parameter adjustment based on measured variables such as wheel speed, motor current, and battery state of charge.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of torque control developed by an electric motor (16) of a first vehicle (1), the first vehicle (1) being connected to a second vehicle (10) via a traction element (12), the first vehicle (1) comprising an electric battery (20) connected to the electric motor (16), the second vehicle (10) pulling the first vehicle (1).The method comprises the following steps: a) measuring a longitudinal force F1 exerted by the traction element (12) on the first vehicle (1); b) measuring the longitudinal speed V1 of the first vehicle (1); c) measuring the instantaneous electrical power supplied by the electric battery (20) of the first vehicle (1); d) calculating a torque setpoint Tq1c to be developed by the electric motor (16), as a function at least of the measured longitudinal force F1m, the measured longitudinal speed V1m and the measured electrical power; e) transmitting the calculated torque setpoint Tq1c to the electric motor (16).