Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to a vehicle. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and a method for controlling torque assist in the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] In current vehicles, when the torque assist feature is implemented, the duration of the torque assist will be same irrespective of whether the customer requirement for torque assist is more or less than the set duration of torque assist. Often, in current vehicles, the torque assist is provided for longer durations even when shorter durations are required by the user/rider of the vehicle. In other words, there is a restriction on the usage of torque assist as it is automatically utilized when preset conditions are used without any input from the user. This lack of customization results in torque assistance being unavailable for shorter durations, leading to unnecessary battery discharge and longer recharge times. As a result, user/rider experiences extended breaks between torque assists due to the increased time required for recharging the battery units.
[003] In view of the foregoing, there is a need felt to overcome at least the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[004] In one aspect of the present invention, a system for controlling torque assist in a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) Machine and Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) control unit. The Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) Machine is coupled to an internal combustion engine and one or more battery units. The ISG control unit is communicatively coupled to the ISG machine and configured to customize the torque assist provided to the engine based on a received user input.
[005] In an embodiment, the user input is received in relation to one or more torque assist parameters selected from the group comprising time of torque assist, duration of torque assist, intensity of torque assist and status of torque assist.
[006] In an embodiment, the user input is received from a personal digital assistant of a user/rider of the vehicle. The personal digital assistant is communicatively coupled to the ISG control unit.
[007] In an embodiment, the user input is received from one or more input means provided on the vehicle. The input means are selected from a group comprising switches, buttons and touch interface. The switches and buttons can be provided on vehicle at any location which is easily accessible to the user/rider while riding the vehicle. The touch interface is provided on an instrument cluster or speedometer of the vehicle.
[008] In an embodiment, the one or more torque assist parameters corresponding to which the user input is received are displayed on the instrument cluster of the vehicle.
[009] In an embodiment, the ISG control unit is further configured to adapt torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns and received user inputs.
[010] In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to adjust torque assist parameters based on fuel efficiency mode selected by the user/rider of the vehicle.
[011] In an embodiment, the ISG control unit is configured to integrate with a vehicle telematics unit to provide remote torque assist control and monitoring of the vehicle via a mobile application or a web interface.
[012] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling torque assist is disclosed in a vehicle. The method comprises a step of receiving a user input. The step of receiving the user input is performed by the ISG control unit. The method further comprises a step of customizing torque assist provided to the engine based on the received user input. The step of customizing is also performed by the ISG control unit.
[013] In an embodiment, the user input is received in relation to one or more torque assist parameters selected from the group comprising time of torque assist, duration of torque assist, intensity of torque assist and status of torque assist.
[014] In an embodiment, the user input is received from a personal digital assistant of a user/rider of the vehicle. The personal digital assistant is communicatively coupled to the ISG control unit.
[015] In an embodiment, the user input is received from one or more input means provided on the vehicle. The input means are selected from a group comprising switches, buttons and touch interface. The switches and buttons can be provided on vehicle at any location which is easily accessible to the user while riding the vehicle. The touch interface is provided on an instrument cluster or speedometer of the vehicle.
[016] In an embodiment, the one or more parameters corresponding to which the user input is received are displayed on the instrument cluster of the vehicle.
[017] In an embodiment, the method further comprises a step of adapting torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns of the vehicle and received user inputs. The step of adapting is performed by the ISG control unit.
[018] In an embodiment, the method comprises a step of adjusting torque assist parameters based on the fuel economy mode selected by the user of the vehicle.
[019] In an embodiment, the method comprises a step of integrating the ISG control unit with a telematics unit to provide remote torque assist control and monitoring the vehicle via a mobile application or web interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[020] Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system for controlling torque assist in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating a method for controlling torque assist in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[021] Various features and embodiments of the present invention here will be discernible from the following further description thereof, set out hereunder.
[022] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system 100 for controlling torque assist in a vehicle 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[023] For the purpose of the present invention, the term “vehicle” comprises any vehicle provided with an internal combustion engine such as, not being limited to, bicycles, scooters, motorcycles, rickshaws, cars, trucks, etc.
[024] As shown in Figure 1, the system 100 comprises an engine 104 for vehicle propulsion, an ISG machine 102, an ISG control unit 108 and one or more battery units 106. The above-mentioned components of the system 100 are disposed in the vehicle 10. The ISG machine 102 includes a stator/housing (not shown) and a rotor (not shown). For starting the engine, the stator of the ISG machine 102 receives energy from the one or more battery units 106 and causes rotation of the rotor, which cranks up the engine 104. After the engine starts, the crankshaft rotation causes the rotor to rotate, which produces an electric current in the stator and this electric energy is used to recharge the battery. The ISG machine 102 is incorporated into the power train of the vehicle 10 and can provide power/torque assist to the engine 104 when required. The ISG machine 102 is controlled by the ISG control unit 108. The ISG control unit 108 is configured to receive one or more inputs from a user/rider of the vehicle 10 and customize torque assist provided to the engine 104 based on received user input.
[025] In an embodiment, the user input is in relation to one or more torque assist related parameters. In a non-limiting example, the torque related parameters corresponding to which input is received are selected from a group comprising time of torque assist, duration of torque assist, intensity of torque assist and state of torque assist. The time of torque assist is providing actual time when the torque assist is to be provided. For example, the torque assist is to be provided in 2 seconds or 3 seconds from the start or restart of the vehicle 10. The duration of the torque assist is providing the length of time for which torque assist is required to be provided. For example, the torque assist can be provided for a duration of 5 seconds depending on traffic conditions. The intensity of torque assist is amount of torque assist required by the user in a pre-defined duration. If more torque assist is required, more energy will be required from the one or more battery units 106 and if less torque assist is required, less energy will be required form the one or more battery units 106. The status of torque assist is ON or OFF. To provide torque assist, the user has to select the ON status of torque assist. Moreover, if at any point of time during torque assist, the user/rider needs to disable the torque assist, the same can be performed by selecting the OFF status of the torque assist. For example, there may be a scenario wherein the user after requesting for a torque assist has to deaccelerate the vehicle 10 and torque assist is, therefore, no longer required. In such a scenario, the user can switch OFF of the torque assist in the vehicle 10. The above-mentioned parameters, however, should not be construed as limiting and other torque related parameters may be defined by the manufacturer of the vehicle 10 for which user input can be provided to customize the torque assist.
[026] It is to be understood that user input can be inputted by the user through various now known or later developed means. For example, an application may be installed in the personal digital assistant 110 of the user such as a mobile phone or a tablet wherein the user can input values in relation to one or more torque assist parameters as discussed above. It is to be understood that ISG control unit 108 is communicatively coupled to the personal digital assistant 110 of the user. In another example, the user input can be received by the ISG control unit 108 by means of switches and buttons provided on the vehicle 10 and easily accessible by the rider of the vehicle 10 while riding. Such buttons and switched may be provided on a handlebar of the vehicle 10. The user input can also be provided using touch interface provided on an instrument cluster 112 of the vehicle 10. For the purposes of the present invention, the instrument cluster 112 will be configured to display one or more torque assist parameters corresponding to which user can provide input using switch, buttons, touch interface or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, a speedometer is connected to two push button type microswitches to set torque assist parameters directly in the speedometer itself.
[027] Table 1 shown below shows a non-limiting example of user input being provided in relation to torque assist parameters:

MODE 0.5 < T <2 Enter Assist Mode
MODE T < 1 Blink 'Status' and Select 'ON' or 'OFF'
SET T < 1 Set Status and start blinking 'Time'
MODE T < 1 Blink 'Time' and increment the value within predefined limits
SET T < 1 Set Time and start blinking 'Duration'
MODE T < 1 Blink 'Duration' and increment the value within predefined limits
SET T < 1 Set Duration, stop blinking and exit assist mode
Table 1
[028] As can be seen, the user can provide his input with respect to the enabling the torque assist (enter the assist mode) and disabling the torque (exit the assist mode). Further, as can be seen from Table 1, the user can also input values with respect to torque assist related parameters such as time of torque assist and duration of torque assist. Although not provided in Table 1, the intensity of torque assist can also be input by the rider/user of the vehicle 10.
[029] In a working example, the torque assist is customized using the steps of activation of torque assist via mobile application or instrument cluster, customization of torque assist parameters, activation of torque assistance, optimized battery management and user feedback and control.
[030] In the step of activation of torque assist via mobile application or instrument cluster, the user can activate the torque assist via the mobile application or the vehicle's instrument cluster in certain traffic conditions such as areas of heavy traffic. The system 100 offers options for customization, allowing the user to adjust torque assist parameters such as duration of torque assist based on anticipated driving conditions.
[031] In the step of customization of torque assist parameters such as torque duration, the user set duration of torque assist to a short interval, say three seconds, anticipating frequent stops and accelerations in city traffic. This ensures that the torque assist operates efficiently during brief bursts of acceleration, conserving fuel and minimizing battery usage during idle periods.
[032] In the step of activation of torque assist, for example, at a traffic light, the signal turns green, and the user need to accelerate quickly to merge into the flow of traffic. The user will press the accelerator pedal, and the system 100 provides an extra 5 Nm of torque for 3 seconds to facilitate swift acceleration. During this acceleration period, the system 100 draws 2 Ah of power from the one or more battery units 106 to supply to the ISG machine 108 acting as a motor.
[033] In the step of optimized battery management, the system efficiently manages battery discharge during torque assistance periods. In the above mentioned example, the system ensures that only 5% of the battery capacity is utilized for the 3-second torque boost. After the acceleration, the ISG machine 102 seamlessly transitions back to its role as a generator, replenishing the one or more battery units 106 with excess energy during deceleration and cruising.
[034] In the step of user feedback and control, throughout the ride, the user/rider receives real-time feedback on torque assistance activation and battery usage through the vehicle's dashboard display or the mobile app. If the user/rider encounter situations where torque assistance is no longer needed, such as steady cruising on the highway, the user can deactivate the torque assist feature to conserve energy and optimize fuel efficiency.
[035] In an embodiment, the ISG control unit 108 is configured to adapt torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns as well as received user inputs in the past. The ISG control unit 108 can, therefore, be trained to store and learn from the riding patterns of the user/rider of the vehicle 10 as well as user inputs in relation to torque assist parameters received in the past.
[036] In an embodiment, the ISG control unit 108 is configured to adjust the parameters based on fuel efficiency mode selected by the user of the vehicle 10. In other words, the ISG control unit 108 will automatically adjust the torque assist parameters so that maximum fuel efficiency is achieved while driving. The user will also be given an option to either accept the adjusted parameters or override the adjusted parameters.
[037] In an embodiment, the ISG control unit 108 configured to integrate with a telematics units disposed in the vehicle 10. When the ISG control unit 108 is integrated with the telematics unit, various features of the vehicle 10 including torque assist can be controlled remotely using mobile application or web interface. This is particularly helpful while controlling torque assist parameters of vehicles in a fleet.
[038] Figure 2 is a flow chart illustrating a method 200 for controlling torque assist in a vehicle 10, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[039] As shown, at step 201, the method 200 comprises receiving a user input from the user/rider of the vehicle 10. The user input is received by the ISG control unit 108. Based on the received user input, at step 202, the method 200 comprises customizing the torque assist provided to the engine 104 based on the received user input.
[040] The torque assist parameters corresponding to which user input is received have already been discussed in detail in preceding paragraphs. The mode of input of the torque assist parameters has also been discussed in detail in the preceding paragraphs.
[041] In an embodiment, the method comprises a step of adjusting, by the ISG control unit 108, torque assist parameters based on fuel efficiency mode selected by the user of the vehicle 10.
[042] In an embodiment, the method 200 comprises a step of adapting torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns of the vehicle and received user inputs. The step of adapting is performed by the ISG control unit 108.
[043] In an embodiment, the method comprises a step of adjusting torque assist parameters based on selected on the fuel economy mode selected by the user of the vehicle 10.
[044] In an embodiment, the method comprises a step of integrating the ISG control unit 108 with a telematics unit to provide remote torque assist control and monitoring the vehicle 10 via a mobile application or web interface.
[045] It is to be understood that typical hardware configuration of the ISG control unit 108 disclosed in the present invention can include a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the ISG control unit 108 to perform the above-disclosed method.
[046] The ISG control unit 108 may include a processor which may be a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. The processor may be one or more general processors, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, servers, networks, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other now known or later developed devices for analysing and processing data. The processor may implement a software program, such as code generated manually i.e. programmed.
[047] The ISG control unit 108 may include a memory. The memory may be a main memory, a static memory, or a dynamic memory. The memory may include, but is not limited to computer readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media and the like. The memory is operable to store instructions executable by the processor. The functions, acts or tasks illustrated in the figures or described may be performed by the programmed processor executing the instructions stored in the memory.
[048] The ISG control unit 108 may also include a disk or optical drive unit. The disk drive unit may include a computer-readable medium in which one or more sets of instructions, e.g. software, can be embedded. Further, the instructions may embody one or more of the methods or logic as described. In a particular example, the instructions may reside completely, or at least partially, within the memory or within the processor during execution by the ISG control unit 108. The memory and the processor also may include computer-readable media as discussed above. The present invention contemplates a computer-readable medium that includes instructions or receives and executes instructions responsive to a propagated signal so that a device connected to a network can communicate data over the network. Further, the instructions may be transmitted or received over the network.
[049] The ISG control unit 108 may accept incoming content and send content to connected components via a communication channel such as Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN) and Bluetooth.
[050] The claimed features/method steps of the present invention as discussed above are not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed features/steps enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. Specifically, the technical problem of non-customization of the torque assist leading to unnecessary battery discharge and longer recharge times is solved by the present invention.
[051] The present invention allows for enhanced flexibility. By allowing users/riders to customize the duration of torque assistance, the system provides greater flexibility to adapt to varying driving conditions and user preferences. The user/rider can tailor the torque assistance to their specific needs, whether they require short bursts of acceleration or sustained torque assistance over longer periods.
[052] The present invention allows for improved efficiency. The ability in the present invention to activate torque assistance only when needed helps optimize energy usage and improve overall vehicle efficiency. Users can minimize unnecessary energy consumption by activating the assistance only during critical moments, leading to potential fuel savings in internal combustion engine vehicles and extended range in electric vehicles.
[053] The present invention allows for reduced battery drain. Efficient management of battery discharge during torque assist periods helps mitigate the risk of excessive battery drain. By leveraging the integrated starter generator (ISG) as a motor during assistance, the system optimizes battery usage and reduces recharge times, enhancing overall battery longevity and performance.
[054] The present invention allows for user friendly controls. The integration of control options via a mobile application, physical buttons and switches and touch interface on the instrument cluster offers intuitive and convenient ways for users to manage torque assist parameters.
[055] The present invention allows for enhanced performance. By providing on-demand torque assistance tailored to the user’s/rider’s needs, the system can contribute to improved vehicle performance, responsiveness, and acceleration.
[056] The present invention allows for adaptability. The customizable features of the system enable easy integration into a wide range of vehicles.
[057] While the present invention has been described with respect to certain embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modification may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

List of Reference Numerals
10-vehicle
100- system
102- ISG machine
104- engine
106- Battery Units
108- ISG control unit
110- Personal digital assistant
112- Instrument cluster
, Claims:1. A system (100) for controlling torque assist in a vehicle (10), the system (100) comprising:
an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) machine (102) coupled to an engine (104) and one or more battery units (106), the ISG machine (102) configured to provide torque assist to the engine (104) by means of the one or more battery units (106); and
an ISG control unit (108), the ISG control unit (108) communicatively coupled to the ISG machine (102) and configured to customize torque assist provided to the engine (104) based on a received user input. .

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user input being received in relation to one or more torque assist parameters selected from a group comprising: time of torque assist, duration of torque assist, intensity of torque assist and status of torque assist.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user input being received from a personal digital assistant (110) of a user of the vehicle (10), the personal digital assistant (110) being communicatively coupled to the ISG control unit (108).

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user input being received from one or more input means provided on the vehicle (10), the input means selected from a group comprising: switches, buttons and touch based user interface provided on an instrument cluster (112) of the vehicle.

5. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the one or more parameters corresponding to which the user input is received being displayed on the instrument cluster (112) of the vehicle.

6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ISG control unit (108) being further configured to adapt torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns of the vehicle and received user inputs.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ISG control unit (108) being configured to adjust torque assist parameters based on fuel efficiency mode selected by the user of the vehicle (10).

8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ISG control unit (108) being further configured to integrate with a telematics unit of the vehicle (10) to provide remote torque assist control and monitoring the vehicle via a mobile application or web interface.

9. A method (200) for controlling torque assist in a vehicle (10), the method comprising:
- receiving (201), by an ISG control unit (108), a user input; and
- customizing, by the ISG control unit (108), the torque assist provided to the engine (104) based on the received user input.

10. The method (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the user input being received in relation to one or more parameters selected from a group comprising: time of torque assist, duration of torque assist, intensity of torque assist and status of torque assist.

11. The method (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the user input being received from a personal digital assistant (110) of a user of the vehicle, the personal digital assistant (110) being communicatively coupled to the ISG control unit (108).

12. The method (200) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the user input being received from one or more input means provided on the vehicle (10), the input means selected from a group comprising: switches, buttons and touch based user interface provided on an instrument cluster (112) of the vehicle (10).

13. The method (200) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the one or parameters corresponding to which the user input is received being displayed on the instrument cluster (112) of the vehicle (10).

14. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising: adapting, by the ISG control unit (108), torque assist parameters based on historical driving patterns of the vehicle (10) and received user inputs.

15. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising: adjusting, by the ISG control unit (108), torque assist parameters based on fuel efficiency mode selected by the user of the vehicle (10).

16. The method as claimed in claim 9, comprising: integrating the ISG control unit (108) with a telematics unit of the vehicle (10) to provide remote torque assist control and monitoring the vehicle (10) via a mobile application or web interface.