DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to an energy management system for electric vehicles, and more specifically to a system and method for optimizing energy management and distribution for electric vehicles featuring a multi-motor-generator configuration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Electric vehicles (EVs) represent a significant advancement in transportation technology. The majority of these vehicles employ an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery pack to generate the necessary driving force. Depending on their design, EVs can be categorized into two primary types based on motor configuration: single-motor and multi-motor designs.

[0003] EVs with a single-motor configuration use a single electric motor for propulsion. This simple design has benefits in terms of cost and ease of manufacture. However, it also brings with it several limitations. Firstly, with only a single motor, power output is limited. This can have an impact on the vehicle's performance, particularly in terms of acceleration and speed. Secondly, because a single motor is responsible for all propulsion, any malfunction or failure can render the vehicle inoperative. Lastly, single-motor configurations cannot provide the sophisticated control offered by multiple motors, limiting the driving dynamics of the vehicle, such as independent wheel control for enhanced handling or traction.

[0004] To address limitations of single-motor configurations, multi-motor electric vehicles are typically designed with two or more motors. This configuration often enables a higher power output, improving the vehicle's performance characteristics. Moreover, each motor can independently control separate wheels, providing enhanced handling, driving dynamics, and better traction control. Despite these advantages, hitherto-known multi-motor configurations in traditional EV systems present some drawbacks. In such systems, the motors only produce mechanical power and do not generate electrical energy. Most notably, the complexity of controlling multiple motors often results in higher costs and increased power consumption. Further, such systems usually lack a mechanism for energy recovery and recycling, leading to energy wastage. Thus, while multi-motor designs can deliver improved performance and control, they do not inherently enhance energy efficiency or extend the driving range of the vehicle.

[0005] Accordingly, in light of the foregoing difficulties and drawbacks, there exists a need for an improved system for optimal energy or power distribution in EVs, in conjunction with an energy recycling mechanism, which aims to significantly enhance energy efficiency and extend the operation period of EVs without the need for external charging.

[0006] Limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, through comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An energy management system and method for electric vehicles is disclosed as shown in and/or described in connection with, at least one of the figures.

[0008] In an example implementation, the energy management system includes a control unit operatively connected to a plurality of motor-generators and a plurality of energy storage devices. The control unit is configured to harvest power generated from at least one of the plurality of motor-generators and the plurality of energy storage devices. The control unit is further configured to selectively utilize the harvested power for: a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators, b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices or c) a and b, based on one or more decision parameters.

[0009] In an aspect combinable with the example implementation, the energy management system includes a sensor unit operatively connected to the control unit. The sensor unit is configured to monitor the one or more decision parameters and provide real-time information associated with the one or more decision parameters to the control unit. The one or more decision parameters include, but are not limited to, torque demand of a vehicle load, a state of charge of the plurality of energy storage devices, an electrical output of the plurality of motor-generators, malfunction of a motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators, efficiency metrics and operational parameters of at least one of the plurality of motor-generators and the plurality of energy storage devices.

[0010] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the control unit is configured to convert the harvested power to usable harvested power, and selectively utilize the usable harvested power for a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators, b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices or c) a and b, based on the one or more decision parameters.

[0011] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the control unit is configured to utilize the harvested power to supply energy to at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators when the torque demand exceeds a threshold.

[0012] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the control unit is configured to utilize the harvested power for charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices when the state of charge falls below a threshold.

[0013] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the control unit is configured to selectively distribute the power harvested to at least one of a) at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators and b) at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices, based on the one or more decision parameters.

[0014] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the sensor unit is configured to monitor the torque demand of the vehicle load based on at least one real-time operational parameter. The control unit is further configured to receive real-time information of the torque demand from the sensor unit and select an operating mode of the plurality of motor-generators based on the real-time information received from the sensor unit. The operating mode is a torque-only mode, a combined torque and electric power mode or an electric power-only mode.

[0015] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the plurality of motor-generators are arranged in a planetary gear configuration.

[0016] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the control unit is operatively connected to an Artificial Intelligence (AI) component. The AI component utilizes predictive analysis and machine learning algorithms to enable the control unit make decisions on the selective utilization of the harvested power.

[0017] In another aspect combinable with any of the previous aspects, the energy management system operates in a closed feedback loop to enable the control unit to make incremental adjustments to the one or more decision parameters based on real-time performance data and historical operational data of the plurality of motor-generators and the plurality of energy storage devices.

[0018] These and other features and advantages of the present invention may be appreciated from a review of the following detailed description of the present invention, along with the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example system implementing the energy management system and method of the present disclosure according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for energy management and distribution for electric vehicles according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The following implementations described may be found in the disclosed energy management system and method for electric vehicles.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example system implementing the energy management system and method of the present disclosure according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a system 100 which features a multi-motor-generator assembly 101 having a plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, a central gear system 104, an energy storage unit 106 having a plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n, an energy recycling mechanism 110, and an energy management system 111 which includes an intelligent multi-motor-generator control unit (MMCU) 112 coupled to a sensor unit 114 and an AI component 116.

[0023] The plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n are alternating current (AC) electrical motors configured to function both as a motor and a generator. The stator has a main winding and one or more auxiliary windings. The main winding is responsible for creating a rotating magnetic field (RMF) which induces a current to cause the rotor’s rotation. The rotor’s rotation induces an alternating EMF in the one or more auxiliary windings which are then harvested by the intelligent MMCU 112. For detailed description of the features, functions and advantages of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, reference is made to US patent application having publication number US20230044966A1 (Indian Application no: 202141035653), the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0024] The plurality of energy storage devices108a-108n in the energy storage unit 106 can be batteries that may include, but are not limited to, lead-acid batteries, sealed maintenance free batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, and lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries, lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries, lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, and lithium-titanate (LiTO) batteries, or capacitors, supercapacitors, and any other energy storage devices.

[0025] The MMCU 112 may comprise suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces and/or code that may be operable to harvest power from the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n and the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n. The power harvested from the plurality of motor-generators can include both electrical energy and mechanical energy. The MMCU 112 is configured to selectively utilize and distribute the harvested power for: a) supplying electrical energy for the operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n or c) both a and b. That is, the MMCU 112 may direct all the energy to all of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n or allocate a portion to recharge the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n as indicated by the energy recycling mechanism 110 referenced in FIG. 1. The energy recycling mechanism 110 denotes the power or energy flow path between the MMCU 112 and the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n and the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n. Thus, the MMCU 112 effectively controls the running of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n and charging of the plurality of batteries 108a-108n based on real-time power requirements, maintaining an equilibrium, which ensures equal power supply to each of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n and the plurality of batteries 108a-108n. The term ‘decision parameter’ is used to describe factors that the MMCU 112 considers when determining how to distribute the harvested power. The one or more decision parameters may include, but are not limited to, torque demand of a vehicle load, a state of charge of the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n, an electrical output of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, malfunction of a motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, efficiency metrics and operational parameters of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n and the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n.

[0026] In some implementations, the MMCU 112 is configured to convert the harvested power to usable harvested power by filtering harmonics in the harvested power. The MMCU 112 then selectively utilizes the harvested power for a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators, b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices or c) a and b, based on the one or more decision parameters.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 1, in some implementations, the MMCU 112 is operatively coupled to the sensor unit 114. The sensor unit 114 may comprise suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces and/or code that may be operable to monitor the one or more decision parameters. The sensor unit 114 then provides real-time information associated with one or more decision parameters to the intelligent MMCU 112. The MMCU 112, based on receiving real-time information of the one or more decision parameters, selectively distributes the harvested power to either the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n or the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n or both.

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, in some implementations, the MMCU 112 is operatively connected to the AI component 116, which utilizes predictive analysis and machine learning algorithms to enable the MMCU 112 make decisions on the selective utilization and distribution of the harvested power. For example, the MMCU 112 is configured to utilize the harvested power to supply energy to at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators when the torque demand exceeds a threshold. In another example, the MMCU 112 is configured to utilize the harvested power for charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices when the state of charge falls below a threshold.

[0029] In some implementations, the sensor unit 114 is configured to monitor the torque demand of the vehicle load based on one or more operational parameters. The one or more operational parameters may include, but are not limited to, terrain characteristics, driving conditions including driving behavior, vehicle speed, and acceleration, The MMCU 112 receives real-time information pertaining to the torque demand of the vehicle load from the sensor unit 114 and accordingly selects an operating mode for the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n. The operating mode is a torque-only mode, a combined torque and electric power mode or an electric power-only mode. In the torque-only mode, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n provide torque to the vehicle. This mode might be selected during high torque demand situations, such as when the vehicle is climbing a steep hill or carrying a heavy load. In the combined torque and electric power mode, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n provide torque to the vehicle and electric power. The plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n may be operated in this mode when there is a moderate torque demand along with a need to charge the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n, such as during normal driving conditions on varied terrain. In the electric power-only mode, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n provide electric power. The plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n may be operated in this mode when the vehicle is coasting downhill or during braking, where the energy demand for propulsion is low, allowing the energy management system 111 to focus on charging the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n.

[0030] In some implementations, the energy management system 111 operates in a closed feedback loop to enable the MMCU 112 to make incremental adjustments to the one or more decision parameters based on real-time performance data and historical operational data pertaining to the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n and the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n. For instance, the MMCU 112 continuously monitors the efficiency, power output, and state of charge of the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n, along with the torque and power output of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n. By analyzing this real-time data in conjunction with historical data, the MMCU 112 can detect patterns and predict future performance under similar conditions. For example, the MMCU 112 may detect that the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n are operating at suboptimal efficiency due to increased internal resistance. Historical data might indicate that efficiency improves with a lower operational load. In response, the MMCU 112 reduces the load on the affected motor-generators and redistributes it to other motor-generators to balance the overall system efficiency.

[0031] In another example, if the state of charge of a particular energy storage device approaches a critical low level, past data could show that certain driving conditions, such as stop-and-go traffic, rapidly deplete this device. The MMCU 112, in this instance, may then switch to an operating mode that favors regenerative braking to recharge the energy storage device during braking events.

[0032] In yet another example, when the vehicle encounters a steep incline demanding high torque from the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n, historical performance data may suggest that certain motor-generators perform better under high torque demands. The MMCU 112 may temporarily shift more torque demand to the higher-performing motor-generators while maintaining overall vehicle performance. By operating in a closed feedback loop, the energy management system 111 continuously refines its decisions, ensuring optimal performance. This dynamic adjustment capability of the of the energy management system 111 enhances the overall efficiency, driving range, and adaptability of the electric vehicle to varying driving conditions.

[0033] In some implementations, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n in the multi-motor-generator assembly 101 are arranged in a planetary gear configuration or any other appropriate configuration in a cascading manner, to the common central gear system 104, to efficiently manage torque and power distribution. Gear mechanics are utilized to harvest torque from the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n. In one configuration, a gearbox combines the power of individual motor-generators into a single drive shaft, enhancing the overall torque output and ensuring smooth power delivery to the vehicle.

[0034] Alternatively, in another configuration, the motor-generators are separately connected to the vehicle axle, allowing for more flexible and independent control of each motor. This setup can adapt to varying driving conditions by selectively engaging or disengaging motor-generators based on torque demand and other operational parameters.

[0035] In some configurations, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n can be housed within a single casing or mounted separately on the axle while remaining electrically interconnected to achieve the desired functions. This design eliminates the necessity for a planetary gear setup in certain cases. The plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n can also be mechanically interconnected.

[0036] A planetary gear system or configuration offers several advantages. Planetary gear systems are known for their compactness and light weight relative to the amount of power they can transmit. This is a crucial aspect in EV design, where saving space and reducing weight can significantly impact vehicle efficiency and performance. Planetary gears can also handle a lot of power for their size, which makes them ideal for high-torque applications such as EVs. The design of a planetary gear system allows for smooth and efficient power transmission, reducing mechanical losses and thus improving overall efficiency. In a planetary gear system, the load is distributed among multiple gears, reducing the strain on individual components and enhancing the system's durability and lifespan. Planetary gear systems are versatile, as they can offer a wide range of gear ratios in a compact space. This allows the multi-motor-generator system to be fine-tuned to deliver optimal performance under different driving conditions.

[0037] It is contemplated that in other implementations, the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n are arranged in a sequential, linear or flat configuration. Akin to the above configuration, all of the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n are operational at all times.

[0038] The specific implementations described above, namely the planetary gear configuration and the sequential/flat/linear configuration, serve to illustrate potential arrangements of the multi-motor-generator system. However, it should be understood that these implementations do not limit the scope of this invention.

[0039] Various other configurations employing multiple motor-generators may be utilized in line with the principle of this disclosure, which centers on optimized energy distribution to the motor-generators and energy storage devices managed by an intelligent control unit. Such alternative configurations could involve different placements, orientations, or arrangements of the motor-generators to suit different vehicle designs or operational needs.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for energy management and distribution for electric vehicles according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, there is shown a flowchart of a method 200 for energy management and distribution.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, at 202, the method 200 includes harvesting power generated from at least one of a plurality of motor-generators (the plurality of motor-generators 102a-102n in FIG. 1) and a plurality of energy storage devices (the plurality of energy storage devices 108a-108n in FIG. 1).

[0042] At 204, the method 200 includes converting the harvested power to usable harvested power.

[0043] At 206, the method 200 includes selectively utilizing the usable harvested power for a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators, b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices or c) a and b, based on one or more decision parameters.

[0044] The present disclosure may be realized in hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The present disclosure may be realized in a centralized fashion, in at least one computer system, or in a distributed fashion, where different elements may be spread across several interconnected computer systems. A computer system or other apparatus/devices adapted to carry out the methods described herein may be suited. A combination of hardware and software may be a general-purpose computer system with a computer program that, when loaded and executed on the computer system, may control the computer system such that it carries out the methods described herein. The present disclosure may be realized in hardware that comprises a portion of an integrated circuit that also performs other functions. The present disclosure may also be realized as a firmware which form part of the media rendering device.

[0045] The present disclosure may also be embedded in a computer program product, which includes all the features that enable the implementation of the methods described herein, and which when loaded and/or executed on a computer system may be configured to carry out these methods. Computer program, in the present context, means any expression, in any language, code or notation, of a set of instructions intended to cause a system with information processing capability to perform a particular function either directly, or after either or both of the following: a) conversion to another language, code or notation; b) reproduction in a different material form.

[0046] While the present disclosure is described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made, and equivalents may be substituted without departure from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departure from its scope.
,CLAIMS:1. An energy management system (111), comprising:
a control unit operatively connected to a plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) and a plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n), wherein the control unit is configured to:
harvest power generated from at least one of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) and the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n); and
selectively utilize the harvested power for a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n), b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n) or c) a and b, based on at least one decision parameter.

2. The energy management system (111) of claim 1, further comprising a sensor unit (114) operatively connected to the control unit, wherein the sensor unit (114) is configured to monitor the at least one decision parameter and provide real-time information associated with the at least one decision parameter to the control unit, wherein the at least one decision parameter is at least one of torque demand of a vehicle load, a state of charge of the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n), an electrical output of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n), malfunction of a motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n), efficiency metrics and operational parameters of at least one of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) and the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n).

3. The energy management system (111) of claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to utilize the harvested power to supply energy to at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) when the torque demand exceeds a threshold.

4. The energy management system (111) of claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to utilize the harvested power for charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n) when the state of charge falls below a threshold.

5. The energy management system (111) of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to:
convert the harvested power to usable harvested power; and
selectively utilize the usable harvested power for a) supplying energy for operation of at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n), b) charging at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n) or c) a and b, based on the at least one decision parameter.

6. The energy management system (111) of claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to selectively distribute the power harvested to at least one of a) at least one motor-generator of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) and b) at least one energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n), based on the at least one decision parameter.

7. The energy management system (111) of claim 2, wherein the sensor unit (114) is configured to monitor the torque demand of the vehicle load based on at least one real-time operational parameter, wherein the control unit is configured to:
receive real-time information of the torque demand from the sensor unit (114); and
select an operating mode of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) based on the real-time information received from the sensor unit (114), wherein the operating mode is one of a torque-only mode, a combined torque and electric power mode and an electric power-only mode.

8. The energy management system (111) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) are arranged in a planetary gear configuration.

9. The energy management system (111) of claim 1, wherein the control unit is operatively connected to an Artificial Intelligence (AI) component, wherein the AI component utilizes predictive analysis and machine learning algorithms to enable the control unit make decisions on the selective utilization of the harvested power.

10. The energy management system (111) of claim 9, wherein the energy management system operates in a closed feedback loop to enable the control unit to make incremental adjustments to the at least one decision parameter based on real-time performance data and historical operational data of the plurality of motor-generators (102a-102n) and the plurality of energy storage devices (108a-108n).