Vehicle Trajectory Optimization With Dynamic Propulsion Derating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle propulsion systems face rapid degradation and increased maintenance costs due to the use of full thrust capacity, which is not suitable for all journeys, and fixed derating methods may not optimize performance for varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using an algorithm to determine optimized vehicle trajectories and propulsion system derates based on vehicle models, propulsion system parameters, and objective functions, considering degradation, emissions, and energy consumption, with control systems to manage these parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If full thrust capacity is used to move the vehicle along the path, then the vehicle can achieve required performance and meet path constraints, but the propulsion system experiences rapid degradation and increased maintenance costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed derate values to dynamic, optimized derate values that adapt to specific journey conditions. The system calculates time-varying derate profiles that adjust propulsion system thrust capacity dynamically throughout the journey, allowing full thrust when needed for performance while limiting thrust during normal operation to reduce degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of derate value from static to dynamic. Instead of using fixed derate percentages, the system optimizes derate values as functions of time and journey conditions, calculating specific thrust capacity limits for each phase of the journey to balance performance requirements with propulsion system degradation reduction.
2Reliability
If a fixed value of derate is applied to limit useable thrust capacity, then maintenance costs are reduced, but the vehicle operator may default to using full thrust capacity when facing adverse weather or other challenging conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes derate values dynamic by calculating them based on specific journey conditions, weather, and path constraints. This allows the propulsion system to adapt thrust capacity limits to varying conditions, providing higher derates when needed for adverse weather while maintaining lower derates during normal conditions to reduce degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculation of optimized derate values before the journey begins, taking into account predicted weather conditions, path constraints, and vehicle performance requirements. This advance planning ensures appropriate derate values are established before adverse conditions occur, preventing the need to default to full thrust capacity.
3Productivity
If full thrust capacity is used, then the vehicle can meet performance requirements, but energy consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes thrust capacity parameters dynamically through optimized derate values that adjust power consumption. By calculating time-varying derate profiles, the system reduces energy consumption during phases where full thrust is not required, while maintaining sufficient thrust capacity to meet performance requirements and productivity targets.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of enabling optimisation of trajectory for a vehicle, the method comprising: determining a trajectory for the vehicle using: an algorithm; a vehicle model defining path constraints for the vehicle through space; a propulsion system model defining parameters of a propulsion system of the vehicle; an objective function defining one or more objectives; and controlling output of the determined trajectory.