Vehicle Power System Engine Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle power systems are inefficient due to the mismatch between peak power output and typical loading conditions, leading to increased fuel consumption, especially under off-peak engine loads, as they require a large engine with low efficiency to deliver power for a variety of auxiliary loads, which consumes significant fuel and reduces fuel efficiency measures like miles per gallon (MPG).
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an efficient vehicle power system (EVPS) that utilizes an array of small, high-efficiency engines, where power is matched to load requirements through mechanical or electrical means, such as multiple electric motors or alternators, to provide power for both motive and non-motive loads, optimizing fuel efficiency by operating engines at their peak efficiency points and combining output power to meet vehicle demands, thereby reducing fuel consumption across a wide range of operating loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a large engine is used to provide peak power output, then power capability is improved, but fuel efficiency deteriorates under off-peak loading conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is segmented into multiple independent power sources (primary and secondary engines) that can operate separately or in combination. The primary engine is sized for typical loading conditions and operates at peak efficiency, while the secondary engine provides additional power only when peak demand occurs, allowing the system to achieve both high power capability and good fuel efficiency across different operating conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single engine operates at variable loads, then versatility is improved, but efficiency deteriorates as the engine cannot operate at peak efficiency points
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts which engine operates based on real-time power demands. The controller monitors loading conditions and automatically switches between primary engine only, primary engine plus secondary engine, or secondary engine only, ensuring that at least one engine is always operating at or near its peak efficiency point while meeting the total power requirement.
3Use of energy by moving object
If multiple power sources are used to match power to load, then fuel efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power outputs of multiple engines are merged through a common transmission system. The secondary engine is mechanically coupled to the transmission, and its output can be combined with the primary engine's output. This merging approach allows flexible power combination without requiring complex electrical power management systems, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining fuel efficiency benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
A power delivery system utilizing an array of electric generators connected to an array of electric drive motors, which in turn are connected to loads of varying power demand, the generators configured to turn on and off to match the loads of varying power demands. The electric generators may be connected to an array of engines, each engine configured to run at peak efficiency. As load demands change, the engines turn on and off to meet the load demands. The engines and electrical generators may also connect to a battery to maintain the battery charge in response to demands on the battery by the electric drive motor array.