Title of Invention

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A HYBRID POWER TRAIN SYSTEM

Abstract A control system for a hybrid powertrain determines operator demands, a powertrain operating state, and operating conditions based upon the inputs; selects an operating strategy based upon the operator demands, the powertrain operating state, and the operating conditions; determines a preferred powertrain operating state; and controls the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state based upon the selected operating strategy, the operator demands and the operating conditions.
Full Text P000304-PTH-CD
CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A HYBRID POWERTRAIN SYSTEM
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application
Number 60/861,638, filed on 11/28/2006, which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure pertains to hybrid powertrain systems.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background information
related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
[0004] Powertrain architectures for vehicles comprise torque-generative
devices, including internal combustion engines and electric machines, which
transmit mechanical torque through a transmission device to an output. Known
engines can also generate torque which may be transmitted to the electric machine
to generate electric power, which is storable as electrical energy potential in an
on-board electrical energy storage device. An electrical energy storage device can
be electrically coupled to a remote power supply for electrical charging during a
period when the vehicle is static, e.g., parked.
1

SUMMARY
[0005] A powertrain system for a vehicle includes an engine, an electrical
energy storage system including an electrical energy storage device selectively
electrically coupled to a remote electric power source, a transmission, and a
control system. The transmission includes a transmission input member
operatively connected to the engine, a first electric machine operatively connected
to a transmission output member, and a second electric machine operatively
connected to the transmission input member. The first and second electric
machines are electrically-operatively coupled to the electrical energy storage
system. The control system is signally connected to a plurality of inputs and
operatively connected to a plurality of actuators. The control system executes
program code to control the actuators to operate the engine and the transmission.
The program code includes: determining operator demands, a powertrain
operating state, and operating conditions based upon the inputs; selecting an
operating strategy based upon the operator demands, the powertrain operating
state, and the operating conditions; determining a preferred powertrain operating
state; and controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state
based upon the selected operating strategy, the operator demands and the
operating conditions.
2

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The disclosure may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement
of parts, embodiments of which are described in detail and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:
[0007] Figs. 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams of exemplary powertrain and
control systems, in accordance with the present disclosure;
[0008] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a logic flowchart, in accordance with the
present disclosure; and
[0009] Figs. 4, 5 and 6 are schematic diagrams of exemplary powertrain
systems, in accordance with the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0010] Referring now to the drawings, wherein the depictions are for the
purpose of illustrating certain exemplary embodiments only and not for the
purpose of limiting the same, and wherein like elements among the exemplary
embodiments and drawings are numbered alike, Fig. 1 depicts an embodiment of
a powertrain system 10A and control system 15 operative to transmit torque to a
transmission output member 64, e.g., to a transmission output shaft, which is
connected to a driveline 90 of a vehicle. The powertrain system 10A includes an
internal combustion engine 20 and an electro-mechanical transmission 30A
including a first electric machine ('MG-A') 40, a second electric machine ('MG-
B') 50, and a planetary or parallel shaft reduction gear set ('PG') 34. The first
and second electric machines 40 and 50 are depicted as being integrated into the
3

transmission 30A, although the disclosure is not so limited. An electric energy
storage device (hereafter 'ESD') 60 is electrically coupled to an inverter module
(MM') 45, described hereinbelow, and an ESD charging device 70. The ESD
charging device 70 is selectively coupled to a remote electric power supply 80 via
an electrical connector 72 when the vehicle is in a static position. The engine 20
opcratively couples to the first electric machine 40 via a transmission input shaft
24 to generate electric power. The second electric machine 50 operatively
couples to the transmission output member 64 via the gear set 34 as shown, or
directly without an intervening gearset. The second electric machine 50 may
transmit tractive torque through the transmission 30A to the driveline 90 for
vehicle propulsion and for regenerative braking. The driveline 90 may comprise a
front-wheel drive system including a transaxle and half-shafts connected to drive
wheels, a rear-wheel drive system including a differential and axles connected to
drive wheels, and other driveline configurations, none of which are shown in
detail.
[0011] The control system 15 provides coordinated system control of the
powertrain system 10A by controlling operation of the engine 20, transmission
30A, and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50, including controlling
operation of the powertrain system 10A in one of a plurality of powertrain
operating states. The control system 15 comprises a hybrid control module
(hereafter 'HCP') 12, an engine control module (hereafter 'ECM') 22,
transmission control module (hereafter 'TCM') 32, motor control module
(hereafter 'MCP') 52, and battery pack, or ESD control module (hereafter
4

'BPCM') 62. The control system 15 receives operator demands and other inputs
from an operator interface module ('UF) 14 via a local area network (hereafter
'LAN') bus connection 16.
[0012] Transmission 30A selectively transmits power among the engine 20, the
first electric machine 40, the second electric machine 50, and the driveline 90 via
the gear set 34, including selectively applying torque transfer devices, hereafter
referred to as clutches (not shown) but intended to include all varieties of torque
transfer devices including, for example, wet and dry clutches, band clutches, and
brakes. The transmission 30A is controlled by the TCM 32. The TCM 32 is
signally and operatively coupled to the transmission 30A and functions to acquire
data from sensors (not shown) and provide command signals. The TCM 32
determines clutch torques, monitors rotational output speed from a transmission
output sensor (not shown), and monitors outputs from hydraulic pressure sensing
devices (not shown) in the transmission. The TCM 32 selectively controls
pressure control solenoids (not shown) and shift solenoids (not shown) to control
the torque transfer clutches to achieve one of the powertrain operating states.
[0013] The engine 20 preferably comprises a multi-cylinder internal combustion
engine operative to generate and transmit torque to the first electric machine 40.
The engine 20 can be of a spark-ignition type, a compression-ignition type, or
other operating cycle, utilizing available fuels, including but not limited to
gasoline, diesel, and alcohol-based fuels. The engine 20 is controlled by the ECM
22, which is signally and operatively coupled to the engine 20, and functions to
acquire data from a variety of sensors (not shown) and control a variety of
5

actuators (not shown) over a plurality of discrete lines (not shown). Acquired
data includes input from a crankshaft position sensor (not shown) to provide
engine speed. Other parameters sensed by ECM 22 include engine coolant
temperature, manifold pressure, ambient air temperature, and ambient pressure,
all of which are not shown. Various actuators that may be controlled by the ECM
22 include fuel injectors, ignition modules, and throttle control modules, all of
which are not shown. The ECM 22 is operative to control the engine 20 to engine
states comprising an engine on state ('ON'), i.e., the engine is fueled and firing,
and an engine off state ('OFF'), i.e., the engine is not fueling and is not firing.
The F^CM 22 can shut off and subsequently restart the engine 20 during ongoing
vehicle operation. The ECM 22 communicates with other control modules via the
LAN bus 16.
[0014] The first and second electric machines 40 and 50 are three-phase AC
electric machines electrically coupled to and controlled by the inverter module 45.
The first electric machine 40 preferably comprises a rotor (not shown) and stator
(not shown), with the rotor operatively connected to the transmission input shaft
24 and the stator grounded to a case (not shown) of the transmission 30A. The
second electric machine 50 preferably comprises a rotor (not shown) and stator
(not shown), with the rotor operatively connected to the transmission output
member 64 via the gear set 34 as depicted, although the disclosure is not so
limited. The stator is grounded to the case of the transmission 30A.
[0015] The inverter module 45 is high voltage DC-coupled to the ESD 60 via
transfer conductors 61. The inverter module 45 preferably comprises a pair of
6

complementary three-phase power inverters (not shown) adapted to transmit
electric power to and from the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 via
transfer conductors 41 and 51 respectively. The three-phase power inverters each
preferably comprises a plurality of semiconductor power switching devices, e.g.,
insulated gate bipolar transistors ('IGBTs') (not shown) that form a switch mode
power supply configured to receive control commands from the MCP 52. There
is typically one pair of IGBTs for each phase of each of the three-phase electric
machines. States of the IGBTs are controlled to provide motor drive or electric
power regeneration functionality. The three-phase inverters receive (or supply)
DC electric power via transfer conductors 41 and transform it to (or from) three-
phase AC power, which is conducted to (or from) the first and second electric
machines 40 and 50 for operation as motors (or generators).
[0016] The MCP 52 controls the inverter module 45 to achieve desired motor
torques. The MCP 52 controls the IGBTs of the inverter module 45 to control
transmission of electrical power to and from the first electric machine 40 via
transfer conductors 41, and to control transmission of electrical power to and from
the second electric machine 50 via transfer conductors 51. Electrical current is
transmitted to and from the ESD 60 via transfer conductor 61 in accordance with
whether the inverter module 45 is charging or discharging the ESD 60 during
vehicle operation.
[0017] The ESD 60 comprises a high-voltage electrical energy storage device,
(e.g., one or more batteries or ultracapacitors, or combinations thereof), preferably
batteries for storing and supplying electrical energy for use during operation of
7

the powertrain. The BPCM 62 is signally coupled to one or more sensors (not
shown) for monitoring electrical current, voltage, and temperature of the ESD 60
to determine parametric states of the batteries. Such parametric states include
battery state of charge, amp-hour throughput, voltage, available electrical power,
and device temperature. The ESD 60 is electrically coupled to ESD charging
device 70 which is couplable via the electrical connector 72 to the remote electric
power supply 80 when the vehicle is in a static position. The ESD charging
device 70 converts AC electrical power to DC electrical power and transfers it to
the ESD 60. The electric connector 72 may electrically couple current ohmically
through conductive contacts or inductively through known inductive coupling
devices. Known remote electric power supplies 80 include a stationary electrical
grid for supplying electric power to residential and commercial consumers.
[0018] The operator interface module 14 is operatively coupled to a plurality of
devices through which demands from the vehicle operator are determined to
control and direct operation of the powertrain system 10A. The devices may
include an accelerator pedal ('AP') and a brake pedal ('BP') from which an
operator torque request is determined, a transmission gear selector (not shown),
and a vehicle speed cruise control (not shown). The transmission gear selector
has a discrete number of operator-selectable positions, including direction of the
transmission output member 64, i.e., one of a forward and a reverse direction. An
operator interface device ('OID') 18 may include a control panel comprising a
plurality of elements, e.g., a touch-activated visual display screen, operator
selectable or operator-adjustable buttons, switches, and knobs, none of which are
8

shown. The operator interface device 18 is preferably located in a console
accessible to the vehicle operator, and receives control inputs from the operator,
including an input requesting powertrain operation in an electric vehicle ('EV')
operating state, and communicates information to the operator. The operator
interface device 18 can be an element of an on-board navigation system which
can include a global positioning system (GPS), and a wireless communications
system, none of which are shown. The on-board navigation system and global
positioning system can provide signal inputs to the control system 15 useable for
operating the powertrain system 10.
[0019] The HCP 12 provides supervisory control of the powertrain system,
serving to coordinate operation of the ECM 22, TCM 32, MCP 52, and BPCM 62.
These control modules comprise a subset of an overall vehicle control
architecture, and comprise the control system 15 which provides coordinated
system control of the powertrain system 10. As described in detail hereinbelow,
the control system 15 synthesizes the inputs to determine operator demands and
operating conditions, and executes algorithms to control various actuators to
achieve control targets for certain parameters including fuel economy, emissions,
performance, and drivability, and to protect powertrain system hardware. Based
upon various input signals from the operator interface module 14 and the
powertrain, including the ESD 60, the control system 15 generates various
commands, including: the operator torque request; a commanded output torque to
driveline 90; the engine input torque; clutch torques for the torque transfer
9

clutches of the transmission 30; and motor torque commands for the first and
second electric machines 40 and 50.
[0020] The aforementioned control modules may communicate with other
control modules, sensors, and actuators via the LAN bus 16, as described herein.
The LAN bus 16 facilitates structured communication between the various control
modules consisting of sensor outputs, control parameters, and device commands.
The communication protocol utilized is application-specific. The LAN bus 16
provides for robust messaging and interfacing between the aforementioned
control modules, and other control modules providing functionality such as
antilock brakes, traction control, and vehicle stability. Multiple communications
buses may be used to improve communications speed and provide signal
redundancy and integrity.
[0021] Each of the aforementioned control modules is preferably a general-
purpose digital computer comprising a microprocessor or central processing unit,
storage mediums comprising read only memory ('ROM'), random access memory
('RAM') and electrically programmable read only memory ('EPROM'), a high
speed clock, analog to digital ('A/D') and digital to analog ('D/A') circuitry, and
input/output circuitry and devices ('I/O') and appropriate signal conditioning and
buffer circuitry. Each control module has a set of control algorithms, comprising
resident executable program instructions and calibrations stored in ROM and
executed to provide the respective functions of each computer. Information
transfer between the various computers is preferably accomplished using the
aforementioned LAN bus 16.
10

[0022] Algorithms for controlling the powertrain system 10 and estimating
parametric states are executed during preset loop cycles such that each algorithm
is executed at least once each loop cycle. The algorithms are stored in the non-
volatile memory devices, and are executed by one of the central processing units
to monitor inputs from the sensing devices and execute control and diagnostic
routines to control operation of the respective device, using preset calibrations.
Loop cycles are executed at regular intervals, for example each 3.125, 6.25, 12.5,
25 and 100 milliseconds during ongoing engine and vehicle operation.
Alternatively, algorithms may be executed in response to occurrence of an event.
[0023] The powertrain system 10A depicted with reference to Fig. 1 is
selectively operative in one of several powertrain operating states by controlling
the engine state and operating the second electric machine 40 to generate tractive
torque which can be transmitted to the driveline 90, as detailed in Table 1.
Table 1

Powertrain
Operating
State Tractive Torque Generator Engine State
EV second electric machine OFF
EV C second electric machine ON
C No tractive torque generation ON
[0024] In an electric vehicle ('EV') operating state, the second electric machine
50 generates the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. The engine 20 and
first electric machine 40 are preferably disconnected from the transmission output
11

member 64. In an electric vehicle with charging ('EV-C') operating state, the
second electric machine 50 generates the tractive torque, and the engine state is
ON, generating power for charging the ESD 60 via the first electric machine 40.
In a charging ('C') operating state, the engine state is ON, generating power for
charging the ESD 60 via the first electric machine 40, and there is no tractive
torque generated. Electrical power can be regenerated during braking or coasting
events, regardless of the powertrain operating state.
[0025] Fig. 2 depicts a second embodiment of a powertrain system 10B and the
control system 15. The powertrain system 10B includes the engine 20 and an
electro-mechanical transmission 30B including first and second electric machines
40 and 50, a gear set ('PG') 34', which preferably comprises a planetary gear set,
and selectively engageable clutches A, B, and C. A first gear member of the
gearset 34' is connected to the second electric machine 50. A second gear
member of the gearset 34' is connected to the transmission output member 64. A
third gear member of the gearset 34' may be selectively connected to the
transmission case (i.e. grounded) by applying clutch A. The third gear member of
the gearset 34' may be selectively connected to the first electric machine 40 by
applying clutch B. And, the engine 20 is connected to the transmission input
member 24 which may be selectively connected to the first electric machine 40 by
applying clutch C.
[0026] The powertrain system 10B depicted with reference to Fig. 2 is
selectively operative in one of several powertrain operating states by controlling
the engine state and operating the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 to
12

generate tractive torque which can be transmitted to the driveline 90 through
selectively applied clutches, as detailed in Table 2.
Table 2

Powertrain
Operating
State Clutch
Applied Tractive Torque Generator Engine State
EV1 A second electric machine OFF
EV2 B first and second electric
machines OFF
EVT B,C engine, first and second
electric machines ON
E V1 - C A, C second electric machine ON
Charging C No tractive torque
generation ON
[0027] In a first electric vehicle ('EV1') operating state, the second electric
machine 50 generates the tractive torque transmitted to the driveline 90, and the
engine state is OFF. The engine 20 and first electric machine 40 are preferably
disconnected from the transmission in an electric vehicle operating state. In a
second electric vehicle ('EV2') operating state, the first and second electric
machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In
an electrically variable transmission ('EVT') operating state, the engine state is
ON, and the engine 20 and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque. In a first electric vehicle with electric charging
('EV1-C') operating state (alternatively referred to as series hybrid operating
state), the second electric machine 50 generates the tractive torque. The engine
13

20 and first electric machine 40 are disconnected from the driveline 90, and the
engine state is ON, generating power for charging the ESD 60 through the first
electric machine 40. In a charging operating state, the engine state can be ON,
and the engine 20 generates power for charging the ESD 60 through the first
electric machine 40, and is disconnected from the driveline 90, i.e., no tractive
torque is transmitted to the driveline 90 from the engine 20. Furthermore, the first
electrical machine 40 can be controlled to start the engine 20, e.g., in the charging
operating state. Electrical power can be regenerated during braking or coasting
events, regardless of the powertrain operating state.
[0028] Fig. 3 depicts a control routine 200, executable as program code
comprising one or more algorithms in one or more of the control modules during
the preset loop cycles, to operate the powertrain system 10, such as the exemplary
embodiments shown with reference to Figs. 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6. Overall the control
routine 200 includes determining operator demands, the current powertrain
operating state, and vehicle operating conditions based upon the operating
demands. An operating strategy is selected, based upon the operator demands, the
current powertrain operating state, and the operating conditions. The powertrain
system 10 is controlled to one of the powertrain operating states to transmit
power, in the forms of driveline tractive torque and electric power generation,
based upon the operating strategy and the operator demands, the powertrain
operating state, and the operating conditions. A person having ordinary skill in
the art will understand that the control routine 200 described herein is applicable
to various electro-mechanical hybrid powertrain configurations, including series-
14

hybrid systems, parallel-hybrid systems, power-split hybrid systems, and others.
This includes systems wherein the engine 20 and the first electric machine 40 are
mounted remotely from the transmission 30.
[0029] During vehicle operation, the operator demands are monitored,
preferably through the operator interface module 14. The current powertrain
operating state and current operating conditions are determined (205).
[0030] The control system 15 determines whether the operator demands and
operating conditions dictate selecting an operating strategy that includes
compelling engine operation (210), which includes setting the engine state to ON
(236). The control system 15 may compel engine operation whenever the
available battery power or energy falls below preset thresholds, e.g., as
determined by the state of charge of the ESD 60. The preset threshold for the
state of charge of the ESD 60 may be determined based upon vehicle speed and
the operator torque request. Estimates of available battery power and energy are
determined, preferably in the BPCM 62, based on battery information, including
the state of charge, battery temperature, battery age, average temperature history,
current depth of discharge, cumulative depth of discharge, cumulative amp-hour
throughput, and other factors. Furthermore, the control system 15 may compel
engine operation when the temperature of the ESD 60 exceeds a preset threshold.
Furthermore, the control system 15 may compel engine operation to provide cabin
heating at low ambient temperature conditions, to meet operator expectations for
comfort. Furthermore, the control system 15 may compel engine operation to
provide system cooling and protect components from overheating, such as the
15

first and second electric machines 40 and 50 and the inverter module 45.
Furthermore, the control system 15 may compel engine operation periodically in
accordance with a predetermined schedule to systematically exercise engine
components. This includes operating the engine and engine subsystems, e.g., a
fuel system (not shown) to lubricate base engine parts, e.g., pistons and bearings,
and cycle the actuators to prevent degradation due to lack of use. Furthermore,
the control system 15 may compel engine operation to warm up the exhaust
aftcrtreatment in a controlled manner to achieve or maintain temperature of an
exhaust aftertreatment device (not shown).
[0031] After it is determined whether engine operation is compelled, it is then
determined whether the preferred operating strategy comprises an electric vehicle
range maximization strategy (hereafter 'EV range maximization strategy') (212,
230). The EV range maximization strategy operates to maximize range capability
in one of the EV operating states, for example subsequent to operating the vehicle
in a geographic region whereat operation of the engine 20 is permissible. The EV
range maximization strategy is executed, and one of the EV operating states is
subsequently activated as further described herein below. When the EV range
maximization strategy is activated, the control system 15 sets a preferred
charge/discharge rate to compel engine operation to charge the ESD 60 at a
maximum charge rate such that the state of charge of the ESD 60 exceeds a
predetermined minimum state of charge and is within an allowable range, while
meeting all operator commands for torque and auxiliary functions (228, 232).
Therefore, the EV range maximization strategy includes operation of the engine
16

and charging of the ESD 60 and may be accomplished in powertrain operating
states that are not purely electric vehicle operating states (i.e. operating states
wherein the engine state is OFF) and include series or parallel hybrid powertrain
configurations with appropriate power splits to ensure driveline torque
requirements are met, auxiliary power functions are met, and the preferred charge
rate is met. One having ordinary skill in the art will therefore appreciate that the
electric charging operating states and the electrically variable transmission
operating states of the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2 may be employed
in carrying out the EV range maximization strategy. Similarly, one having
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that alternative powertrain configurations
that include fixed gear operating states, such as described herein below with
respect to the embodiments of Figs. 4-6, may also be employed in carrying out the
EV range maximization strategy. One having ordinary skill in the art will
therefore appreciate that in carrying out the EV range maximization strategy, the
powertrain operating state will include an engine state of ON. When the ESD 60
achieves a state of charge within the allowable range, preferably corresponding to
a relatively high state of charge, the control system 15 maintains the ESD 60 at
that state of charge until either the EV range maximization strategy is deactivated
or operation in one of the EV operating states is initiated, either by an input by the
vehicle operator to the operator interface device 18, or by other action related to
the vehicle operation. This may or may not dictate that the engine 20 remains
constantly on, depending on the preferred charge rate and the vehicle drive
schedule in process. As used herein, the terms charge rate and charge/discharge
17

rate refer to a time-based rate of electric power flow into or out of the ESD 60,
preferably in amp-hours.
[0032] The EV range maximization strategy can be activated automatically for
example when an incipient electric vehicle operating state is determined. For
example, EV range maximization strategy may be activated when the vehicle is
proximal to and approaching a geographic area where vehicles are restricted to
EV-only operation, using information from the GPS system and map information
which may be made available a priori or obtained via a wireless network while the
vehicle is operating. Alternately, the vehicle operator may select and designate
one or more geographic areas as desirable for EV operation via input to the
operator interface device 18. Alternately, EV range maximization strategy may
be activated if a preset drive path is known which includes portions of required or
desired EV-only operation. Alternately, the vehicle operator may select the EV
range maximization strategy via input to the operator interface device 18
indicating a preference for operating in the EV operating state, causing the control
system 15 to activate the EV range maximization strategy prior to operating in the
EV operating state. The EV range maximization strategy is then activated
preceding entry into the areas of EV operation or in anticipation of the electric
vehicle operating state to achieve a state of charge of the ESD 60 effective to
permit operation using a charge depletion operating strategy subsequent thereto.
[0033] When the engine 20 is not compelled to operate, and the EV range
maximization strategy is not indicated, it is determined whether the charge
depletion operating strategy is permitted (214). The control system 15 determines
18

whether there are operating conditions which prevent depleting the charge of the
ESD 60. This includes monitoring health and performance of the ESD 60. For
example, the charge depletion operating strategy is not permitted whenever the
available power and/or energy from the ESD 60 fall below a preset threshold.
The BPCM 62 estimates the available power and energy from the ESD 60 based
on battery information including the state of charge, battery temperature, battery
age. average temperature history, current depth of discharge, cumulative depth of
discharge, and cumulative amp-hour throughput.
[0034] When the charge depletion operating strategy is permitted, it is
determined whether engine-off operation is preferred (216). The control system
15 monitors and reviews conditions which prevent the engine 20 from being
compelled to operate by the control system 15. These conditions include a default
powertrain operating state, wherein the default powertrain operating state
comprises operating in one of the EV operating states until the state of charge of
the ESD 60 falls below a threshold, i.e., the ESD 60 has been depleted. The
vehicle operator may select the EV operating state as a preferred powertrain
operating state using an on-board input device, e.g., selecting EV operation using
to the operator interface device 18. The control system 15 may activate one of the
EV operating states and engine-off operation based upon input from the GPS
system to the operator interface device 18, when the vehicle approaches a
geographic area where vehicles are restricted to EV-only operation. Alternately,
the operator may select and designate specific areas as desired for EV-only
operation, utilizing the GPS system and on-board electronic maps made available
19

a priori or obtained via a wireless network while the vehicle is operating.
Alternately, the control system 15 may activate one of the EV operating states
based upon the operator executing a preset drive path, including portions which
have required or desired EV-only operation. When the control system 15
determines the EV operating state is preferred, the engine state is set to OFF, and
the engine is shutdown or continues to be shutdown when it is already shutdown
(220).
(0035] The charge depletion operating strategy is refined to include a preferred
charge/discharge rate for the ESD 60, when engine operation is permitted during a
portion of a trip (218). This includes determining the preferred charge/discharge
rate for the ESD 60, when engine operation is compelled during a portion of the
trip (234). The preferred charge/discharge rate is determined based upon the
operating conditions, including information related to the current trip and the
driving style of the operator. The operator inputs information into the operator
interface device 18 related to the current trip, including, e.g., distance or
destination. The control system 15 monitors and determines the operator's
driving style to optimize the rate of charge depletion of the ESD 60. The
information is preferably organized in a hierarchical fashion wherein more
specific information permits alteration of the drive strategy to improve
performance. There is a base charge/discharge calibration, which includes a
minimum discharge rate for depletion of electric power. The minimum discharge
rate is used by the control system 15 as the preferred charge/discharge rate in the
absence of other information. The minimum discharge rate may minimize fuel
20

usage and/or operator cost for an expected distribution of trip distances and
driving styles. The minimum discharge rate may be developed based on a
statistical description of vehicle trips in the target vehicle market.
[0036] As the vehicle is repeatedly operated, the driving pattern for a
specifically identifiable trip may be characterized statistically in terms of speed,
acceleration, and number of stops. Alternately, the operator may select a drive
mode via the user input, comprising, for example, one of city, downtown, rush
hour, and cruising mode, with a corresponding preferred charge/discharge rate
that is determined for the selected drive mode. Additionally, elevation
information as determined either from GPS data or from sensors may be used to
determine whether the terrain is hilly or flat. From this information, the minimum
discharge rate may be modified, for example, to reduce fuel usage for the driving
pattern in use.
[0037] In operation, the control system 15 may identify whether a specifically
identifiable trip in progress. If the specific trip is known, the preferred
charge/discharge rate may be optimized at various points in the trip to minimize
the fuel usage or operating cost. If trip elevation vs. distance is known, this
information may be used to optimize the capture of potential regenerative braking
energy during operation of the vehicle. The control system 15 determines a
preferred charge/discharge rate comprising a charge depletion rate which accounts
for the following factors, when known: trip speed vs. distance, total trip length,
expected future recharge behavior at end of the trip, and, the trip elevation vs.
distance. Various methods may be used to identify occurrence of the specific trip,
21

to permit the control system 15 to monitor and capture information about the trip.
This includes the operator entering trip distance via the operator interface device
18; the operator identifying a specific trip, including selection from preset list of
stored trips, or waypoint identification; the control system 15 matching
occurrence of a trip using GPS information; or using information related to speed
acceleration, time and, distance. Furthermore, under conditions wherein the
vehicle deviates from expected trip behavior, preferred charge/discharge rate may
be adjusted to take the deviation into account. Such deviations include, e.g.,
mismatches between expected and actual speeds, deviations from an expected trip
route, and real-time traffic information. In this manner, the baseline or default
preferred charge/discharge rate represents a minimum expected performance.
Vehicle performance is anticipated to improve from the base charge/discharge
rate after a period of learning and adaptation.
[0038] When the engine 20 is not compelled to operate, and the EV range
maximization strategy is not activated, and the charge depletion operating strategy
is not permitted, a charge sustaining operating strategy is selected, which
comprises setting the preferred charge/discharge rate to a value that causes the
average SOC to track a desired target value (222). When the preferred
charge/discharge rate is set to zero, the control system 15 controls operation of the
powertrain system 10 so that the average state of charge of the ESD 60 is within
measurement error of the desired target SOC and within a predetermined level of
hysteresis to prevent engine cycling. The desired target SOC need not be a fixed
value and may vary during the course of vehicle operation taking into account
22

factors such as expected demand for and battery capability for delivering power
and energy, expected supply of regenerative braking energy due to terrain and/or
recharge opportunity, and to minimize the long term exposure of the battery pack
to states of charge that cause increased rate of degradation or wearout. The
engine 20 and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 are controlled to
generate electric power and torque to minimize system losses while maintaining
the state of charge of the ESD 60 (224, 226).
[0039] When the preferred charge/discharge rate is determined, e.g., at any one
of (218, 222, 228) the optimal engine state is determined to minimize system
power loss (224). This includes determining whether the powertrain operating
state includes the engine state as OFF or the engine state as ON, based upon the
charge/discharge rate, the conditions of the ESD 60, and other factors.
[0040] The control system 15 determines an optimal operating point at which to
control the powertrain system 10 to generate the tractive torque which is
transmitted to the driveline 90, to generate power which is transmitted to the first
electric machine 40 to generate electric power, and to regeneratively brake the
vehicle and generate electric power thereby. This includes determining and
controlling speed and torque outputs from the engine 20 and the first and second
electric machines 40 and 50 to meet the operator torque request and any
requirements for charging the ESD 60, and to minimize energy usage and power
loss in the powertrain system 10 when controlled to the selected powertrain
operating state, based upon the operator demands, powertrain states, and
operating conditions (226). This operation includes selecting a preferred one of
23

the available powertrain operating states, including, e.g., an electric vehicle
operating state, an electrically variable transmission operating state, an electric
vehicle operating state with electric charging, a charging operating state, a fixed
gear operating state, and a neutral/charging operating state, depending upon the
specific embodiment of the powertrain system 10 employed. Additional
operating conditions taken into account include available electrical energy from
the BSD 60. The available electrical energy in the ESD 60 is taken into account
in order to minimize the probability that the ESD 60 is not discharged below a
predetermined minimum state of charge prior to a subsequent charging
opportunity. Available electrical energy is determined in the BPCM 62 based on
the state of charge, the battery temperature, the battery age, the average
temperature history, the current depth of discharge, the cumulative depth of
discharge, and the cumulative amp-hour throughput. Vehicle energy usage
includes estimated rolling losses and road loads, which may be monitored and
taken into account to modify a projected rate of energy usage. Furthermore, the
system may use fuel cost information in order to select the most cost effective
control between combustible fuel and electricity. The fuel and electricity costs
may be determined based on location, or manually entered, or updated via
communication with the vehicle from external sources.
[0041] Fig. 4 depicts another embodiment of a powertrain system 10C including
the engine 20, and an electro-mechanical transmission 30C including first and
second electric machines 40 and 50, a first planetary gear set 34A, a second
planetary gear 34B, and selectively engageable clutches C1 81, C2 83, C3 85, and
24

C4 87. A first gear member of the gearset 34A, a sun gear SA in the present
embodiment, is connected to the first electric machine 40. A second gear member
of the gearset 34A, a ring gear RA in the present embodiment, is connected to the
transmission input member 24 which in turn is connected to the engine 20. A
third gear member of the gearset 34A, a double-pinion planet carrier CA
connected to dual-planetary gears PA in the present embodiment, is connected to
the second electric machine 50 and a first gear member of the gearset 34B, a sun
gear SB in the present embodiment. A second gear member of the gearset 34B, a
planet carrier CB connected to planetary gears PB in the present embodiment, is
connected to the transmission output member 64. A third gear member of the
gearset 34B, a ring gear in the present embodiment, may be selectively connected
to the transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch CI 81. The third gear member
of the gearset 34B may be selectively connected to the first gear member of the
gearset 34A (sun gear SA in the present embodiment) and the first electric
machine 40 via clutch C2 83. The second electric machine 50 and the first gear
member of the gearset 34B (sun gear SB in the present embodiment) may be
selectively connected the transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch C3 85. The
second gear member of the gearset 34A (ring gear RA in the present embodiment)
and the transmission input member 24 (which in turn is connected to the engine
20) may be selectively connected to the third gear member of the gearset 34A
(double-pinion planet carrier CA connected to dual-planetary gears PA in the
present embodiment) and to the second electric machine 50 and the first gear
25

member of the gearset 34B (sun gear SB in the present embodiment) via clutch
C4 87.
[0042] The powertrain system 10C depicted with reference to Fig. 4 is
selectively operative in one of several powertrain operating states by controlling
the engine state and operating the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 to
generate tractive torque which can be transmitted to the driveline 90 via the
transmission output member 64 through selectively applied clutches, as detailed
in Table 3.
Table 3

Powertrain
Operating
State Clutch
Applied Tractive Torque Generator Engine State
EV1 C1 second electric machine OFF
HV2 C2 first and second electric
machines OFF
EVT1 C1 engine and second electric
machine ON
EVT2 C2 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG1 C1,C4 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG2' C1,C2 engine and second electric
machine ON
FG3 C2, C4 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG4 C2, C3 engine and first electric
machine ON
Neutral/ None none ON or OFF
26

Charging
10043] In a first electric vehicle ('EV1') operating state, the second electric
machine 50 generates the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a second
electric vehicle ('EV2') operating state, the first and second electric machines 40
and 50 generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a first
electrically variable transmission ('EVT1') operating state, the engine state is ON,
and the engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the
tractive torque, although one having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
the first electric machine 40 may provide a reaction torque contributing to the
tractive torque. In a second electrically variable transmission ('EVT2') operating
state', the engine state is ON, and the engine 20 and the first and second electric
machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a first fixed gear operating
state ('FGl') the engine 20 and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque. In a second fixed gear operating state ('FG2') the
engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the tractive
torque. In a third fixed gear operating state ('FG3') the engine 20 and the first
and second electric machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a fourth
fixed gear operating state ('FG4') the engine 20 and the first electric machine 40
predominantly generate the tractive torque. In each of the first, second, third, and
fourth fixed gear operating states, speed of the transmission output member 64
directly corresponds to the engine speed and the fixed gear ratio. The engine 20
may generate power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40
27

during any of the operating states when the engine state is ON. In a
neutral/charging operating state, the engine state can be ON, with the engine 20
generating power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40,
and disconnected from the driveline 90, i.e., no tractive torque is transmitted to
the driveline 90 from the engine 20. Furthermore, the first electrical machine 40
can be controlled to start the engine 20 in any of the powertrain operating states in
which the engine state can be ON. Electrical power can be regenerated during
braking or coasting events, regardless of the powertrain operating state.
[0044] Fig. 5 depicts another embodiment of a powertrain system 10D including
the engine 20, and an electro-mechanical transmission 30D including first and
second electric machines 40 and 50, a first planetary gear set 34A, a second
planetary gear 34B, and selectively engageable clutches C1 81, C2 83, C3 85, C4
87, and C5 89. A first gear member of the gearset 34A, a sun gear SA in the
present embodiment, is connected to the first electric machine 40. A second gear
member of the gearset 34A, a ring gear RA in the present embodiment, is
connected to the transmission input member 24 which in turn is connected to the
engine 20. A third gear member of the gearset 34A, a double-pinion planet carrier
CA connected to dual-planetary gears PA in the present embodiment, is connected
to the second electric machine 50 and a first gear member of the gearset 34B, a
sun gear SB in the present embodiment. A second gear member of the gearset
34B, a planet carrier CB connected to planetary gears PB in the present
embodiment, is connected to the transmission output member 64. A third gear
member of the gearset 34B, a ring gear in the present embodiment, may be
28

selectively connected to the transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch CI 81.
The third gear member of the gearset 34B may be selectively connected to the
first gear member of the gearset 34A (sun gear SA in the present embodiment)
and the first electric machine 40 via clutch C2 83. The second electric machine
50 and the first gear member of the gearset 34B (sun gear SB in the present
embodiment) may be selectively connected the transmission case (i.e. grounded)
via clutch C3 85. The second gear member of the gearset 34A (ring gear RA in
the present embodiment) and the transmission input member 24 (which in turn is
connected to the engine 20) may be selectively connected to the third gear
member of the gearset 34A (double-pinion planet carrier CA connected to dual-
planetary gears PA in the present embodiment) and to the second electric machine
50 and the first gear member of the gearset 34B (sun gear SB in the present
embodiment) via clutch C4 87. The second gear member of the gearset 34A (ring
gear RA in the present embodiment) and the transmission input member 24
(which in turn is connected to the engine 20) may be selectively connected to the
transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch C5 89.
[0045] The powertrain system 10D depicted with reference to Fig. 5 is
selectively operative in one of several powertrain operating states by controlling
the engine state and operating the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 to
generate tractive torque which can be transmitted to the driveline 90 via the
transmission output member 64 through selectively applied clutches, as detailed
in Table 4.
29

Table 4
Powcrtrain
Operating
Stale Clutch
Applied Tractive Torque Generator Engine State
EV1 C1,C5 first and second electric
machines OFF
EV2 C2, C5 first and second electric
machines OFF
EVT1 C1 engine and second electric
machine ON
EVT2 C2 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG1 C1,C4 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG2 C1,C2 engine and second electric
machine ON
FG3 C2, C4 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG4 C2, C3 engine and first electric
machine ON
Neutral/
Charging None none ON or OFF

[0046] In a first electric vehicle ('EV1') operating state, the second electric
machine 50 generates the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a second
electric vehicle ('EV2') operating state, the first and second electric machines 40
and 50 generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a first
electrically variable transmission ('EVT1') operating state, the engine state is ON,
and the engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the
30

tractive torque, although one having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
the first electric machine 40 may provide a reaction torque contributing to the
tractive torque. In a second electrically variable transmission ('EVT2') operating
state, the engine state is ON, and the engine 20 and the first and second electric
machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a first fixed gear operating
state ('FG1') the engine 20 and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque. In a second fixed gear operating state ('FG2') the
engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the tractive
torque. In a third fixed gear operating state ('FG3') the engine 20 and the first
and second electric machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a fourth
fixed gear operating state ('FG4') the engine 20 and the first electric machine 40
predominantly generate the tractive torque. In each of the first, second, third, and
fourth fixed gear operating states, speed of the transmission output member 64
directly corresponds to the engine speed and the fixed gear ratio. The engine 20
may generate power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40
during any of the operating states when the engine state is ON. In a
neutral/charging operating state, the engine state can be ON, with the engine 20
generating power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40,
and disconnected from the driveline 90, i.e., no tractive torque is transmitted to
the driveline 90 from the engine 20. Furthermore, the first electrical machine 40
can be controlled to start the engine 20 in any of the powertrain operating states in
which the engine state can be ON. Electrical power can be regenerated during
braking or coasting events, regardless of the powertrain operating state.
31

[0047] Fig. 6 depicts another embodiment of a powertrain system 10E including
the engine 20, and an electro-mechanical transmission 30E including first and
second electric machines 40 and 50, a first planetary gear set 34A, a second
planetary gear 34B, and selectively engageable clutches CI 81, C2 83, C3 85, C4
87, and C6 91. A first gear member of the gearset 34A, a sun gear SA in the
present embodiment, is connected to the first electric machine 40. A second gear
member of the gearset 34A, a ring gear RA in the present embodiment, may be
selectively connected to the transmission input member 24 and a third gear
member of the gearset 34A as described further herein below. The third gear
member of the gearset 34A, a double-pinion planet carrier CA connected to dual-
planetary gears PA in the present embodiment, is connected to the second electric
machine 50 and a first gear member of the gearset 34B, a sun gear SB in the
present embodiment. A second gear member of the gearset 34B, a planet carrier
CB connected to planetary gears PB in the present embodiment, is connected to
the transmission output member 64. A third gear member of the gearset 34B, a
ring gear in the present embodiment, may be selectively connected to the
transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch CI 81. The third gear member of the
gearset 34B may be selectively connected to the first gear member of the gearset
34A (sun gear SA in the present embodiment) and the first electric machine 40 via
clutch C2 83. The second electric machine 50 and the first gear member of the
gearset 34B (sun gear SB in the present embodiment) may be selectively
connected the transmission case (i.e. grounded) via clutch C3 85. The second
gear member of the gearset 34A (ring gear RA in the present embodiment) may
32

be selectively connected to the transmission input member 24 which in turn is
connected to the engine 20 via clutch C6 91. The second gear member of the
gearset 34A (ring gear RA in the present embodiment) may be selectively
connected to the third gear member of the gearset 34A (double-pinion planet
carrier CA connected to dual-planetary gears PA in the present embodiment) and
to the second electric machine 50 and the first gear member of the gearset 34B
(sun gear SB in the present embodiment) via clutch C4 87.
[0048] The powertrain system 10E depicted with reference to Fig. 6 is
selectively operative in one of several powertrain operating states by controlling
the engine state and operating the first and second electric machines 40 and 50 to
generate tractive torque which can be transmitted to the driveline 90 via the
transmission output member 64 through selectively applied clutches, as detailed
in Table 5.
33

Table 5
Powertrain
Operating
State Clutch
Applied Tractive Torque Generator Engine State
EV1 C1,C6 second electric machine OFF
EV2 C2, C6 first and second electric
machines OFF
EV3 C1,C4 first and second electric
machines OFF
EV4 C2, C4 first and second electric
machines OFF
EVT1 C1,C6 engine and second electric
machine ON
EVT2 C2, C6 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG1 C1,C4,C6 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG2 C1,C2, C6 engine and second electric
machine ON
FG3 C2. C4. C6 engine, first and second
electric machines ON
FG4 C2, C3, C6 engine and first electric
machine ON
Neutral/
Charging C6 none ON or OFF
[0049] In a first electric vehicle ('EV1') operating state, the second electric
machine 50 generates the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a second
electric vehicle ('EV2') operating state, the first and second electric machines 40
and 50 generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a third electric
34

vehicle ('EV3') operating state, the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a fourth electric
vehicle ('EV4') operating state, the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque, and the engine state is OFF. In a first electrically
variable transmission ('EVT1') operating state, the engine state is ON, and the
engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the tractive
torque, although one having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the first
electric machine 40 may provide a reaction torque contributing to the tractive
torque. In a second electrically variable transmission ('EVT2') operating state,
the engine state is ON, and the engine 20 and the first and second electric
machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a first fixed gear operating
state ('FG1') the engine 20 and the first and second electric machines 40 and 50
generate the tractive torque. In a second fixed gear operating state ('FG2') the
engine 20 and the second electric machine 50 predominantly generate the tractive
torque. In a third fixed gear operating state ('FG3') the engine 20 and the first
and second electric machines 40 and 50 generate the tractive torque. In a fourth
fixed gear operating state ('FG4') the engine 20 and the first electric machine 40
predominantly generate the tractive torque. In each of the first, second, third, and
fourth fixed gear operating states, speed of the transmission output member 64
directly corresponds to the engine speed and the fixed gear ratio. The engine 20
may generate power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40
during any of the operating states when the engine state is ON. In a
neutral/charging operating state, the engine state can be ON, with the engine 20
35

generating power for charging the ESD 60 through the first electric machine 40,
and disconnected from the driveline 90, i.e., no tractive torque is transmitted to
the driveline 90 from the engine 20. Furthermore, the first electrical machine 40
can be controlled to start the engine 20 in any of the powertrain operating states in
which the engine state can be ON. Electrical power can be regenerated during
braking or coasting events, regardless of the powertrain operating state.
[0050] The disclosure has described certain preferred embodiments and
modifications thereto. Further modifications and alterations may occur to others
upon reading and understanding the specification. Therefore, it is intended that
the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed as the best
mode contemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will
include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
36

CLAIMS
I. A powertrain system for a vehicle, comprising:
an engine;
an electrical energy storage system including an electrical energy storage device
selectively electrically coupled to a remote electric power source;
a transmission including a transmission input member operatively connected to
the engine, a first electric machine operatively connected to a transmission
output member, a second electric machine operatively connected to the
transmission input member, said first and second electric machines
electrically-operatively coupled to the electrical energy storage system;
and
a control system signally connected to a plurality of inputs and operatively
connected to a plurality of actuators, said control system operative to
execute program code to control the actuators to operate the engine and
the transmission, the program code comprising
a) determining operator demands, a powertrain operating state, and
operating conditions based upon the inputs,
b) selecting an operating strategy based upon the operator demands, the
powertrain operating state, and the operating conditions,
c) determining a preferred powertrain operating state, and
d) controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state
based upon the selected operating strategy, the operator demands
and the operating conditions.
37

2. The powertrain system of claim 1, wherein the operating strategy
comprises one of a charge depletion strategy, a charge sustaining strategy, and an
electric vehicle range maximization strategy.
3. The powertrain system of claim 2, wherein the operating strategy selected
comprises the charge depletion strategy and the preferred powertrain operating
state determined comprises an electric vehicle operating state.
4. The powertrain system of claim 3, wherein the powertrain is permanently
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
5. The powertrain system of claim 3, wherein the powertrain is selectively
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
38

6. The powertrain system of claim 5, wherein:
the transmission further comprises
a planetary gear set including first, second and third gear members,
a transmission case,
said first gear member connected to said second electric machine,
said second gear member connected to said transmission output member,
a first selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third gear
member and said transmission case,
a second selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third
gear member and said first electric motor,
a third selectively engageable torque transfer device operable when engaged
to connect said first electric motor and said transmission input
member; and
controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state comprises
one of a) controlling said first selectively engageable torque transfer
device engaged, said second and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said second electric machine to provide
torque, and b) controlling said second selectively engageable torque
transfer device engaged, said first and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said first and second electric machines to
provide torque.
39

7. The powertrain system of claim 3, wherein determining the preferred
powertrain operating state is based upon one of an operator preference and a
geographic location of the vehicle.
8. The powertrain system of claim 7, wherein the geographic location of the
vehicle comprises one of an area whereat powertrain operating states are
restricted to an electric vehicle operating state and an area identified by an
operator.
9. The powertrain system of claim 2, wherein:
the operating strategy selected comprises the charge depletion strategy;
the program code further comprises determining a preferred electric power
charge/discharge rate, and determining a preferred engine state and
selectively operating the engine based upon said preferred electric power
charge/discharge rate; and
controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state is further
based upon the preferred electric power charge/discharge rate and the
preferred engine state.
10. The powertrain system of claim 9, wherein the preferred powertrain
operating state comprises one of an electric vehicle operating state and an electric
vehicle with electric charging operating state, and combinations thereof.
40

11. The powertrain system of claim 10, wherein the powertrain is permanently
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
12. The powertrain system of claim 10, wherein the powertrain is selectively
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
41

13. The powertrain system of claim 12, wherein:
the transmission further comprises
a planetary gear set including first, second and third gear members,
a transmission case,
said first gear member connected to said second electric machine,
said second gear member connected to said transmission output member,
a first selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third gear
member and said transmission case,
a second selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third
gear member and said first electric motor,
a third selectively engageable torque transfer device operable when engaged
to connect said first electric motor and said transmission input
member; and
controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state comprises
one of a) controlling said first selectively engageable torque transfer
device engaged, said second and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said second electric machine to provide
torque, and b) controlling said second selectively engageable torque
transfer device engaged, said first and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said first and second electric machines to
provide torque.
42

14. The powertrain system of claim 9, wherein the preferred electric power
charge/discharge rate comprises a predetermined minimum discharge rate.
15. The powertrain system of claim 14, wherein the predetermined minimum
discharge rate is predetermined based upon at least one of an operator input
comprising a distance, an operator input comprising a destination, an operator
driving style, and an operator-selected drive mode.
16. The powertrain system of claim 14, wherein the predetermined minimum
discharge rate is predetermined based upon occurrence of a predetermined trip.
17. The powertrain system of claim 16, wherein the predetermined minimum
discharge rate is adjusted based upon vehicle elevation during said predetermined
trip.
18. The powertrain system of claim 16, wherein a global positioning system
integrated into an operator interface device of the vehicle is utilized to determine
the occurrence of the predetermined trip.
19. The powertrain system of claim 14, wherein the predetermined minimum
discharge rate is adjusted based upon costs of fuel and electricity.
43

20. The powertrain system of claim 2, wherein:
the operating strategy selected comprises the charge sustaining strategy;
the program code further comprises determining state of charge of the electrical
energy storage device, and setting a preferred charge/discharge rate to
effect an average state of charge of the electrical energy storage device at
a charge sustaining target value; and
controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state is further
based upon the charge/discharge rate and preferred electric power
charge/discharge rate and the state of charge of the electrical energy
storage device.
21. The powertrain system of claim 20, wherein the charge sustaining target
value varies with vehicle location.
22. The powertrain system of claim 20, wherein the charge sustaining target
value is increased subsequent to termination of an initial charge depleting
strategy.
23. The powertrain system of claim 20, wherein the preferred powertrain
operating state comprises one of an electric vehicle operating state and an electric
vehicle with electric charging operating state, and combinations thereof.
44

24. The powertrain system of claim 23, wherein the powertrain is permanently
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
25. The powertrain system of claim 23 wherein the powertrain is selectively
configured as a series hybrid powertrain.
45

26. The powertrain system of claim 25, wherein:
the transmission further comprises
a planetary gear set including first, second and third gear members,
a transmission case,
said first gear member connected to said second electric machine,
said second gear member connected to said transmission output member,
a first selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third gear
member and said transmission case,
a second selectively engageable torque transfer device between said third
gear member and said first electric motor,
a third selectively engageable torque transfer device operable when engaged
to connect said first electric motor and said transmission input
member; and
controlling the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state comprises
one of a) controlling said first selectively engageable torque transfer
device engaged, said second and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said second electric machine to provide
torque, and b) controlling said second selectively engageable torque
transfer device engaged, said first and third selectively engageable torque
transfer devices disengaged, and said first and second electric machines to
provide torque.
46

27. The powertrain system of claim 1, wherein the preferred powertrain
operating state comprises one of an electric vehicle operating state, an electric
vehicle operating state with electric charging, and an electrical charging operating
state.
47
28. The powertrain system of claim 1 wherein the program code further
comprises compelling engine operation when available electrical power from the
electrical energy storage device is less than a predetermined electrical power.
29. The powertrain system of claim 1 wherein the program code further
comprises compelling engine operation when an operating temperature of at least
one of the first and second electric machines exceeds a predetermined
temperature.
30. The powertrain system of claim 1 wherein the program code further
comprises periodically compelling engine operation to exercise engine
components.


A control system for a hybrid powertrain determines operator demands, a
powertrain operating state, and operating conditions based upon the inputs; selects
an operating strategy based upon the operator demands, the powertrain operating
state, and the operating conditions; determines a preferred powertrain operating
state; and controls the powertrain to the preferred powertrain operating state based
upon the selected operating strategy, the operator demands and the operating
conditions.

Documents:

01600-kol-2007-abstract.pdf

01600-kol-2007-claims.pdf

01600-kol-2007-correspondence others.pdf

01600-kol-2007-description complete.pdf

01600-kol-2007-drawings.pdf

01600-kol-2007-form 1.pdf

01600-kol-2007-form 2.pdf

01600-kol-2007-form 3.pdf

01600-kol-2007-form 5.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-(09-01-2014)-ABSTRACT.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-(09-01-2014)-AMANDED PAGES OF SPECIFICATION.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-(09-01-2014)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-(09-01-2014)-OTHERS.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-(10-07-2013)-PETITION UNDER RULE 137.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-CLAIM.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-CORRESPONDENCE 1.1.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-CORRESPONDENCE OTHERS 1.1.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-CORRESPONDENCE OTHERS 1.2.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-FORM 18.pdf

1600-KOL-2007-PRIORITY DOCUMENT.pdf

abstract-01600-kol-2007.jpg


Patent Number 263241
Indian Patent Application Number 1600/KOL/2007
PG Journal Number 42/2014
Publication Date 17-Oct-2014
Grant Date 15-Oct-2014
Date of Filing 26-Nov-2007
Name of Patentee GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
Applicant Address 300 GM RENAISSANCE CENTER DETROIT, MICHIGAN
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 ALAN G. HOLMES CLARKSTON, MICHIGAN 6520 HADLEY HILLS COURT CLARKSTON, MICHIGAN 48348
2 BRENDAN M. CONLON ROCHESTER HILLS, MICHIGAN 3052 KILBURN ROAD WEST ROCHESTER HILLS, MICHIGAN 48306
3 EDWARD D. TATE JR. GRAND BLANC, MICHIGAN 9119 ORCHARD VIEW DRIVE GRAND BLANC, MICHIGAN 48439
4 ERIC M. RASK ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN 2603 N. CONNECTICUT ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN 48073
PCT International Classification Number B60K6/00
PCT International Application Number N/A
PCT International Filing date
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 11/940,366 2007-11-15 U.S.A.
2 60/861,638 2006-11-28 U.S.A.