An Optimization Framework for Comparative Analysis of Multiple Vehicle Powertrains

Abstract

With a myriad of alternative vehicle powertrain architectures emerging in the industry, such as electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, it is beneficial that the most appropriate system is chosen for the desired vehicle class and duty cycle, and to minimize a given cost function. This paper investigates this issue, by proposing a novel framework that evaluates different types of powertrain architectures under a unified modular powertrain structure. This framework provides a systematic and objective approach to comparing different types of powertrain architectures simultaneously, and will highlight the benefits that can be achieved from each architecture, thus making it possible to develop the reasoning for manufacturers to implement such systems, and potentially accelerate customer take-up of alternative powertrain technology. The results from this investigation have indicated that such analysis is indeed possible, by way of identifying the "cross-over point" between powertrain architectures, where one powertrain architecture transitions into a different architecture with increments in the required travel range.

Educational Project for the Teaching of Control of Electric Traction Drives

“…In a rechargeable electric automobile, this always includes the on-board energy storage system (usually batteries, but sometimes a combination of batteries and ultracapacitors [10]), one or more bidirectional power electronics converters (usually two, one DC/DC converter and one inverter or DC/AC converter), and one or more rotatory electrical machines [11,12]. Other elements such as differentials or additional gears are also present depending on the powertrain topology.…”

Modeling, control, and performance of a novel architecture of hybrid electric powertrain system

“…Zhang et al have developed an exhaustive search methodology for optimal designs for topologies with given power sources and planetary gear sets and clutches [35]. Mohan et al have designed a framework with similar functionality, but using a systematic search method which compares all possible topologies simultaneously [36]. Silvas et al have designed an automatic HEV topology generator which generates feasible topologies using given power sources and transmission components [37].…”

Functional and Cost-Based Automatic Generator for Hybrid Vehicles Topologies

“…More recent studies have also tried to show the influence of topology change of one or more components [12]- [20] or to integrate the topology selection, as a discrete choice, with the sizing and control of components [21]- [23]. Yet, no methodology exists to build or determine suitable topologies candidates for these sizing or control studies and, as substitute, a discrete and limited set of topologies is used.…”