Vehicle Torque Distribution Control for Efficiency and Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle driving force control systems for electric or hybrid vehicles fail to simultaneously optimize energy efficiency and driving stability, often resulting in hunting phenomena and non-monotonic energy efficiency changes when switching between different torque distribution ratios.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle driving force control apparatus that includes a ratio determination unit to set a target distribution ratio based on a reference ratio and an allowable range, which is adjusted according to various parameters indicative of the vehicle's running state, ensuring reduced energy loss and maintaining driving stability by selecting a distribution ratio within this range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If the required torque is distributed at a first distribution ratio that improves energy efficiency, then energy efficiency increases, but driving stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddriving stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the torque distribution ratio adjustable and variable based on real-time vehicle operating conditions. The control device dynamically selects between a first distribution ratio (optimizing energy efficiency) and a second distribution ratio (optimizing driving stability) according to the current running state, allowing the system to adapt rather than remain fixed. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the system to prioritize energy efficiency when conditions permit while switching to stability optimization when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of torque distribution ratio based on vehicle running state. By monitoring operating conditions and adjusting the distribution ratio parameter between two predefined values, the system optimizes the balance between energy efficiency and driving stability. This parameter change approach allows the system to select the most appropriate distribution strategy for current conditions, resolving the inherent trade-off between the two objectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Stability of the object's composition

If the required torque is distributed at a second distribution ratio that improves driving stability, then driving stability increases, but energy efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving stabilityVSAvoidenergy efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the torque distribution ratio based on real-time vehicle operating conditions. When driving stability is prioritized, the control device selects the second distribution ratio; when energy efficiency can be optimized without compromising stability, it selects the first distribution ratio. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to switch between stability and efficiency optimization based on current needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the torque distribution ratio parameter according to vehicle running state to resolve the contradiction between driving stability and energy efficiency. By adjusting this key parameter between two predefined values based on monitored operating conditions, the system achieves optimal balance, selecting stability-oriented distribution when needed and efficiency-oriented distribution when conditions allow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If the distribution ratio switches back and forth between the first distribution ratio and the second distribution ratio, then both energy efficiency and driving stability are addressed, but hunting occurs and transition time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedriving stabilityVSAvoidtransition time
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by establishing clear switching criteria and thresholds for transitioning between distribution ratios. The control device monitors vehicle running state and only switches between the first and second distribution ratios when predefined conditions are met, preventing unnecessary or premature switching. This preliminary determination of switching conditions avoids hunting phenomena and reduces transition time by ensuring switches occur only when truly necessary.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring vehicle running state and adjusting the torque distribution ratio based on this information. The control device incorporates feedback mechanisms that detect when switching between distribution ratios is appropriate, preventing oscillatory hunting behavior. This feedback control ensures that transitions occur based on actual vehicle conditions rather than arbitrary timing, reducing unnecessary transitions and associated time losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10427544B2Vehicle driving force control apparatus
Publication Date: 2019.10.01 SUBARU CORP
  • US10427544B2 patent drawing
  • US10427544B2 patent drawing
  • US10427544B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle driving force control apparatus is mounted in a vehicle provided with a plurality of drive sources, and a plurality of power transmission mechanisms configured to transmit power from the plurality of drive sources to a plurality of wheels or a plurality of sets of wheels. The vehicle driving force control apparatus includes: a ratio determination unit and a command unit. The ratio determination unit determines a target ratio at which a required driving force applied to the vehicle is to be distributed to the plurality of wheels or the plurality of sets of wheels. The command unit commands the plurality of drive sources to output power such that driving force distributed in accordance with the target ratio is generated in the plurality of wheels or the plurality of sets of wheels.