Simulation of Multi-Motor Propulsion System for Energy Efficiency in Electric Vehicles

Abstract

For a vehicle, the knowledge of components, characteristics, performances, and behaviors are some base elements for a successful simulation. Today's tools are offering instruments able to cover a such request and new possibilities appear. Choosing the right ones, representing the entire vehicle as a system of subsystems, integrating as much as possible the parameters of different components, are also few additional elements. For internal combustion engine vehicles, the generation and the transmission of the mechanical power to the wheels imply the usage of specific mechanic parts. From a single engine, the mechanical power is controlled to offer the requested torque and speed simultaneously to the vehicle wheels, passing by clutches and gearboxes. An electric propulsion, generating high torque at zero speed, and covering large speed area, implies less components for the mechanical transmissions. One single gear, a reducer, could cover the entire speed area request of the vehicle. On the other hand, it is possible to approach the generation of the mechanical power to the wheels, by using not only one electric motor, but one for each axle, or, even more, one electric motor for each wheel of the vehicle. This paper presents the usage of numerical simulation in such situations, emphasizing opportunities for onboard energy efficiency improvement, and opening new possibilities for optimization in multiple motor solutions.

Energy Consumption Analysis for an Ev Powertrain Using Three BLDC Identical Motors

“…Therefore, the power distribution among electric motors and the powertrain efficiency remain important in designing mobility solutions [36,37]. The current investigation is based on precedent experiences in simulation [38] and experimental measurements [9]. Several methods can be used to control energy efficiency [39,40].…”

Efficiency Maps for an Ev BLDC Motor Using Analytic Calculation and Simulation

“…For supplying the multiple motors, the direct current (DC) from the onboard energy storage must be adapted for each motor phase via the inverter [20][21][22] following the strategy given by the motor's controls [23][24][25][26][27][28][29]. Using simulation [30] different control strategies can be explored. Solutions to obtain a first physical confirmation on a test bench are already explored [31].…”