Utility Vehicle Power Mode Control for Battery Runtime
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric utility vehicles face challenges in energy efficiency due to the lower energy density of batteries compared to internal combustion engines, leading to quicker energy depletion and perceived undesirable delays in recharging.
Innovation Solution
A control system for utility vehicles that includes a controller with memory and a processor to select from multiple operating power states, allowing users to switch between energy conservation and normal energy modes, and adjust power consumption based on user inputs and attachment configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If electric motors are used in utility vehicles, then energy efficiency is improved, but runtime is reduced due to lower energy density of batteries
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts motor power output based on real-time operating conditions and selected power mode. The controller continuously monitors vehicle state and modifies power delivery to optimize the balance between energy efficiency and runtime, allowing the vehicle to adapt its energy consumption profile to extend operational duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements multiple power modes (e.g., power mode A with higher power output and power mode B with lower power output) that change the operational parameters of the electric motor. By switching between these parameter sets based on task requirements, the system optimizes energy efficiency while managing runtime constraints imposed by battery energy density.
2Productivity
If maximum power output is maintained, then productivity is improved, but energy consumption increases leading to more frequent recharging
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial power output rather than continuous maximum power by implementing power modes that deliver only the necessary power level for current tasks. This partial action approach maintains productivity when needed while reducing energy consumption during lower-demand operations, thereby extending runtime between charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller periodically evaluates operating conditions and adjusts power mode selections accordingly. This periodic assessment allows the system to alternate between higher power output modes for productivity-critical periods and lower power modes for energy conservation, optimizing the balance between productivity and energy consumption over time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power modes are implemented, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system serves multiple functions: it monitors vehicle operating conditions, determines appropriate power modes, controls motor power output, and manages overall vehicle performance. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional controller, the system achieves high adaptability through multiple power modes while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system and method of controlling a utility vehicle. The system may include a controller, an energy mode input associated with a user input request to select one of at least two power modes, an implement control input associated with a user input request to select a movement of an implement, a drive control input associated with a user input request to select a movement of a drive system to propel the utility vehicle, and an attachment type input to further refine the allowed operating power states. The controller is adapted to determine a change between the plurality of operating power states in response to user input requests to automatically optimize machine performance and efficiency. Each of the plurality of operating power states includes a maximum electric current output and a maximum speed output of the electric motor.