SE539210C2

SE539210C2 - A method and system for controlling the operation of a hybrid power vehicle

Info

Publication number: SE539210C2
Application number: SE1451292A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Falkhäll Johan; Vågstedt Nils-Gunnar
Original assignee: Scania Cv Ab
Priority date: 2014-10-29
Filing date: 2014-10-29
Publication date: 2017-05-16
Also published as: SE1451292A1; DE102015013536A1

Description

A method and system for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid vehicle TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle. Said power source may be a combustion engine. The invention relates also to a computer program product comprising program code for a computer for implementing a method according to the invention, it relates also to a system for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle and a vehicle equipped with the system.

BACKGROUND Vehicles of today use torque and power generated by a power source, e.g. a combustion engine, for propulsion of the vehicle as well as driving a number of torque/power consuming units, e.g. a motor fan or an AC arrangement on-board said vehicle, Depending on how the vehicle is driven, as well as temperature of ambient air, carried load and topology of a travel path of the vehicle, prevailing load of said torque/power consuming units and potential energy storage means is varying over time, if may arises a situation where generated torque/power is not sufficient for both propelling said torque/power consuming units and propelling said vehicle according to prevailing demands. A driver may thus experience that the capacity of said power source of said vehicle is not sufficient. The behaviour of current systems is thus not reliable and predictable.

US 2011015811 relates to a control system of a hybrid vehicle, wherein an acceptable level of stored energy of a battery is maintained.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to propose a novel and advantageous method for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle.

Another object of the invention is to propose a novel and advantageous system and a novel and advantageous computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle.

Yet another object of the invention is to propose a method, a system and a computer program for providing increased driver comfort during accelerations of a vehicle.

Yet another object of the invention is to propose an alternative method, an alternative device and an alternative computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle.

Some of these objects are achieved with a method for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle according to claim 1. Other objects are achieved with a system according to claim 6. Advantageous embodiments are depicted in the dependent claims.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle, comprising the steps of: - providing a maximum torque and power of said power source for a certain power source speed interval; - providing a new maximum torque and new maximum power of said power source for a certain power source speed interval available for propulsion of said vehicle and operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle; and - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval in addition to said new maximum torque and new maximum power, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

Hereby is achieved a control for said engine wherein torque and power being reserved for driving said at least one torque/power consuming unit may be used when necessary, securing adequate operation of said unit and at the same time providing necessary torque and power for propulsion of said vehicle. Herein a predictable behaviour of said vehicle advantageously is achieved, particularly during take-off and accelerations demanding full torque/power provision. Advantageously the inventive method may be applicable when driving in steep terrain, carrying heavy load and in warm climate. Hereby reliable operation of for example a motor fan and AC arrangements is provided.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method for controlling the operation of at least two power sources of a vehicle. According to this embodiment, substantially the same principles are applied, but a total maximum torque and a total maximum power are considered, and a new total maximum torque and a new total maximum power are provided, so as to reserve a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power sources for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

The method may comprise the step of: - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for a power source speed interval running above a certain power source speed value. Said certain power source speed value may be an idle speed of said power source.

The method may comprise the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed, Hereby a smooth and adequate provision of said reserved amount of torque is provided, The method may comprise the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount of power of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed. Hereby an adequate amount of reserved power is provided.

The method may comprise the step of: - adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units of the vehicle. Hereby a highly accurate reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval may be determined and implemented.

The method comprises the step of: - providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means associated with a hybrid operation configuration of said vehicle. Hereby said reserved torque and power may be used for charging said energy storage means when suitable, and at the same time maintaining desired propulsion of said vehicle. Hereby said energy storage means may be recharged relatively fast, which is particularly advantageous in situations where the vehicle has been operating in a so called Zero Tailpipe Emission mode.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a system for controlling the operation of a power source of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle, comprising: ?• means for providing a maximum torque and maximum power of said power source for a certain power source speed interval; ?• means for providing a new maximum torque and new maximum power of said power source for a certain power source speed interval available for propulsion of said vehicle and operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle ; and - means for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval in addition to said new maximum torque and new maximum power, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

The system may comprise: - means for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for a power source speed interval running above a certain power source speed value.

The system may comprise: ?• means for reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed.

The system may comprise: - means for reserving said predetermined amount of power of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed.

The system may comprise: - means for adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units of the vehicle.

The system comprises: - means for providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means associated with a hybrid operation configuration of said vehicle.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a system for controlling the operation of at least two power sources of a vehicle. According to this embodiment substantially the same principles are applied, but a total maximum torque and a total maximum power are considered, and a new total maximum torque and a new total maximum power are provided, so as to reserve a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power sources for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing an electronic control unit or another computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform the steps according to any of the claims 1-5, According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform the steps according to any of the claims 1-5, According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises program code for causing an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform the steps according to any of the claims 1-5, when run on said electronic control unit or said computer.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises program code stored on a computer-readable medium for causing an electronic, control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit, to perform the steps according to any one of the claims 1-5, According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises program code stored on a computer-readable medium for causing an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform the steps according to any one of the claims 1-5, when run on said electronic control unit or said computer.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program product containing a program code stored on a computer-readable medium for performing method steps according to any one of claims 1-5, when said computer program is run on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program product containing a program code stored non-volatile on a computer-readable medium for performing method steps according to any one of claims 1-5, when said computer program is run on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method for controlling the operation of an engine of a vehicle, comprising the steps of: - providing a maximum torque and power of said engine for a certain engine speed interval; - providing a new maximum torque and new maximum power of said engine for a certain engine speed interval available for propulsion of said vehicle and operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle; and - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for at least a portion of said engine speed interval in addition to said new maximum torque and new maximum power, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

The method may comprise the step of: - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for an engine speed interval running above a certain engine speed value.

The method may comprise the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said engine so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased engine speed.

The method may comprise the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount, of power of said engine so that, said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased engine speed.

The method may comprise the step of: - adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for at least a portion of said engine speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units of the vehicle, According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a system for controlling the operation of an engine of a vehicle, comprising: - means for providing a maximum torque and power of said engine for a certain engine speed interval; - means for providing a new maximum torque and new maximum power of said engine for a certain engine speed interval available for propulsion of said vehicle and operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle ; and - means for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for at least a portion of said engine speed interval in addition to said new maximum torque and new maximum power, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

The system may comprise: - means for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for an engine speed interval running above a certain engine speed value.

The system may comprise: - means for reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said engine so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased engine speed.

The system may comprise: - means for reserving said predetermined amount of power of said engine so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased engine speed, The system may comprise: - means for adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine for at least a portion of said engine speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units of the vehicle, The system comprises; - means for providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means associated with a hybrid operation configuration of said vehicle.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a motor vehicle comprising a system according to whet is described herein. The motor vehicle may be any of a truck, bus or car.

According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer program for controlling the operation of a power source of a vehicle, wherein said computer program comprises a program code for causing an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit, to perform the steps according to any one of claims 1-5.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program product comprising a program code stored on a computer readable medium for performing method steps according to any one of claims 1-5, when said program code is run on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

Further objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to one skilled in the art from the following details, and also by putting the invention into practice. Whereas the invention is described below, it should be noted that it is not confined to the specific details described. One skilled in the art having access to the teachings herein will recognise further applications, modifications and incorporations in other fields, which are within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For fuller understanding of the present invention and its further objects and advantages, the detailed description set out below should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference notations denote similar items in the various diagrams, and in which: Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 schematically illustrates a subsystem for the vehicle depicted in Figure 1, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3a schematically illustrates a diagram, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 3b schematically illustrates a diagram, according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4a is a schematic flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4b is a schematic flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 4c is a more detailed schematic flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the invention; and Figure 5 schematically illustrates a computer according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 depicts a side view of a vehicle 100. The exemplified vehicle 100 comprises a tractor unit 110 and a trailer 112. The vehicle may be a heavy vehicle, e.g. a truck or a bus, It may alternatively be a passenger car.

It should be noted that the invention is applicable for various platforms comprising a power source, such as a combustion engine or a configuration comprising a battery and power electronics/electric machine, and at least one power/torque consuming unit. It should be noted that the invention is suitable for application in various vehicles and is therefore not confined to motor vehicles being propelled by a combustion engine, Said power source may comprise a plurality of different power sources, e.g. two combustion engines, or an engine system comprising two combustion engines and an electrical motor/electrical storage means. The innovative method and the innovative system in one aspect of the invention are well suited to other platforms which comprise a power source than motor vehicles, e.g. watercraft. The watercraft may be of any kind, e.g. motor boats, steamers, ferries or ships.

The innovative method and the innovative system according to one aspect of the invention are also well suited to, for example, systems which comprise industrial engines and/or engine-powered industrial robots.

The innovative method and the innovative system according to one aspect of the invention are also well suited to various kinds of power plants, e.g. an electric power plant which comprises an engine-powered generator.

The innovative method and the innovative system are also well suited to any engine system which comprises a combustion engine and at least one power/torque consuming unit associated thereto, e.g. on a locomotive or some other platform, The term "link" refers herein to a communication link which may be a physical connection such as an opto-electronic communication line, or a non-physical connection such as a wireless connection, e.g. a radio link or microwave link.

Figure 2 depicts a parallel hybrid system 299 of the vehicle 100. The parallel hybrid system 299 is situated in the tractor unit 110. It should be noted that even though the invention is according to this example is depicted in the form of a parallel hybrid system other configurations are most relevant as well.

The parallel hybrid system 299 comprises a combustion engine 230 which has an output shaft 235 connected to a clutch 240. The clutch may be any suitable clutch. It may be a sliding clutch with pressure discs and plates. It may in one version be implemented as a so-called lock-up function in a torque converter in cases where the transmission of the vehicle 100 has an automatic gearbox. The clutch 240 is connected to an input shaft 245 of a gearbox 260. The gearbox 260 has an output shaft 265 connected to a torque distributor 270 for conveying torque/power to a number of powered wheels 280 via respective drive shafts 275.

The parallel hybrid system 299 further comprises an electrical machine configuration comprising an electrical machine 250 associated with the gearbox input shaft 245. The electrical machine 250 is connected electrically to an energy store 255. The electrical machine 250 may in one example be suited to an operating power of 60-120 kW. The energy store 255 may be of any suitable kind. It may in one example be a battery of any suitable kind, e.g. a lithium ion battery. The battery may alternatively be for example an NiMH battery. In another example the energy store may 255 be an electrochemical energy store, e.g. an electrochemical capacitor known as SuperCap. Said energy store 255 is herein exemplified with a battery of conventional kind for parallel hybrid systems.

In one version, the electrical machine 250 is adapted to being supplied with power by said energy store 255 and thereby serving as a motor in the vehicle's power train to impart driving torque/power to the gearbox input shaft 245. In one version the electrical machine 250 is adapted to serving as a generator of the electrical machine configuration and thereby charging the energy store 255 during braking of the vehicle 100. Said electrical machine 250 may typically run alternately as motor and generator.

In the version of this example the battery 255 is connected electrically to an electrical rectifier 253 by a cable L255. The rectifier 253 is adapted to converting DC voltage supplied from the battery via the cable L255 to a desired suitable three-phase voltage. In alternative versions of the invention, electrical machines herein described may be run with any desired number of phases, e.g. one phase or two phases. The rectifier 253 is adapted to supplying said three-phase voltage to the electrical machine 250 via a cable L253 to power and run the electrical machine. Said DC voltage may amount to several hundred volts, e.g. 400 volts or 600 volts.

Said electrical machine configuration comprises said electrical machine 250, rectifier 253, battery 255 and necessary connections between them.

The rectifier 253 is arranged accordingly so that during braking of the vehicle it converts to DC voltage a three-phase voltage generated from the electrical machine 250 and supplied to the rectifier 253. The rectifier 253 is arranged to supply said DC voltage to the battery 255 via the cable L255 to charge the battery.

A component configuration comprising the electrical machine 250, the cable L253, the rectifier 253, the cable L255 and the energy store 255 is herein called the electrical machine configuration, it should be noted that different versions of said configuration are feasible, in one version the energy store 255 and the rectifier 253 may be manufactured as an integrated unit which is connected electrically to the electrical machine 250. In another version the rectifier 253 and the electrical machine 250 may be manufactured as an integrated unit which is connected electrically to the energy store 255. in a third version the energy store 255, the rectifier 253 and the electrical machine 250 may be manufactured as an integrated unit.

A first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with the engine 230 via a link L230. The first control unit 200 is adapted to controlling the operation of the engine according to stored running routines. It is for example adapted to guiding an engine's prevailing speed (or output shaft torque/power) towards a demanded speed (or demanded output, shaft torque/power).

The first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with the clutch 240 via a link L240. The first control unit 200 is adapted to controlling the operation of the clutch according to stored running routines. It is for example adapted to opening the clutch 240, sliding the clutch 240 together and closing the clutch 240 according to said stored routines.

The first control unit 200 is arranged for communication with the electrical machine 250 via a link L250. The first control unit 200 is adapted to controlling the operation of the electrical machine 250 according to stored running routines. Although in Figure 2 the first control unit 200 is connected to the electrical machine 250, it is in practice connected to the rectifier 253. In practice the first control unit 200 is adapted to controlling the electrical machine 250 by means of the rectifier 253. For example, the first control unit 200 is adapted to choosing the running direction for the electrical machine 250 according to said stored routines. This means that the first control unit 200 is adapted to causing the electrical machine 250 to serve as a motor to impart driving torque to the gearbox input shaft 245. it also means that where appropriate the first control unit 200 is adapted to causing the electrical machine 250 to serve as a generator to charge the battery 255.

The first control unit 210 is arranged for communication with the gearbox 260 via a link L260. The first control unit 200 is adapted to controlling the operation of the gearbox 260 according to stored running routines, it is for example adapted to causing different gear steps in the gearbox, including neutral position, according to said stored routines. The gearbox 260 may be a so-called manual gearbox, e.g. a robotised/automated manual gearbox, or an automatic gearbox.

A second control unit 210 is arranged for communication with the first control unit 200 via a link L210. The second control unit 210 may be detachabiy connected to the first control unit 200. The second control unit 210 may be a control unit external to the vehicle 100. The second control unit 210 may be adapted to affecting the innovative method steps according to the invention. It may be used to cross-load software to the first control unit, particularly software for applying the innovative method. It. may alternatively be arranged for communication with the first control unit 200 via an internal network on board the vehicle 100. The second control unit 210 may for example be adapted to performing substantially similar functions to the first control unit 200, e.g. controlling the operation of the engine 230, the clutch 240, the electrical machine configuration comprising the electrical machine 250, the rectifier 253 and the battery 255, and the gearbox 260. The second control unit 210 may be adapted to performing substantially similar functions to those of the first control unit, e.g. reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine 230 for at least a portion of an engine speed interval in addition to new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

It should be noted that certain of the above functions may be performed by the first control unit 200 and certain of them by the second control unit 210.

In one embodiment a speed sensor (not depicted) is provided to continuously detect a prevailing speed N of the electrical machine 250. This sensor is adapted to continuously sending to the first control unit 200 via a link (not depicted) signals which contain information about a prevailing speed N, Said detected speed N may be used as a parameter for controlling the operation of the vehicle during operation according to one aspect of the invention, A first torque/power consuming unit 291 is powered by said engine 230. Said first torque/power consuming unit 291 may be mechanically driven by said engine 230. Said first torque/power consuming unit 291 may comprise a number of torque/power consuming units. Said first torque/power consuming unit 291 may comprise a number of different torque/power consuming units.

A second torque/power consuming unit 292 is powered by said energy store 255. Said second torque/power consuming unit 292 may be electrically driven by said energy store 255 and/or said the electrical machine 250, Said second torque/power consuming unit 292 may comprise a number of torque/power consuming units, Said second torque/power consuming unit 292 may comprise a number of different torque/power consuming units, A third torque/power consuming unit 293 is powered by said output shaft 265, Said third torque/power consuming unit 293 may be mechanically/electrically driven by said output shaft 265, or any other suitable part of the transmission of said vehicle 100, Said third torque/power consuming unit 293 may comprise a number of torque/power consuming units. Said third torque/power consuming unit 293 may comprise a number of different torque/power consuming units.

Said first torque/power consuming unit 291, second torque/power consuming unit 292 and third torque/power consuming unit 293 may be any unit chosen among the group AC (Air Conditioner) arrangement, fan, motor fan, air compressor, PTO unit (Power Take Off), compressor arrangement (for e.g. a garbage truck), cement mixer, pump arrangement, etc.

According to an embodiment a torque/power consuming unit may comprise the energy store 255.

Figure 3a schematically illustrates a diagram according to an aspect of the invention.

Hereby is illustrated a maximum available torque Umax from said power source 230 as a function of power source speed N. Said torque is given in the unit Nm and said power source speed N is given in revolutions per minute (RPM).

Said maximum provided torque Tlmax is a predetermined function which may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. This provides that for every given power source speed a maximum torque output is allowable.

According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided a new maximum available torque T2max, which differs from said provided torque Tlmax. Said maximum provided torque T2max is a predetermined function which may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. By providing this new maximum available torque T2max, which is lower than said maximum torque Tlmax, a certain amount of available torque is advantageously reserved, according to an embodiment of the invention.

Thus, torque provided by said power source may, for any given power source speed N, be available for propelling said vehicle and also driving at least one of said torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293. However, if a total required torque of the vehicle is greater than an available torque T2max, said reserved torque may be used for driving only said at least one of said torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293. The amount of torque, which is the difference between said torque Tlmax and said torque T2max is used only for driving said at least one torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293, not propulsion of the vehicle. This is controlled by said first control unit 200.

According to an embodiment it is reserved a predetermined amount of torque of said power source 230 for a power source speed interval N1-N2 running above a certain power source speed value Nl. Said certain power source speed value Nl may correspond to an idling speed of said power source 230, e.g. 500 or 800 RPM, According to an embodiment said predetermined amount of torque of said power source 230 is reserved so that said predetermined amount, regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed N. This means that a greater amount, of reserved torque is available within a portion of said power source speed interval N1-N2 at a lower end of said interval (closer to Nl) and that a smaller amount of reserved torque is available within a portion of said power source speed interval N1-N2 at a higher end of said interval (closer to N2).

According to an example said reserved amount of torque of said power source 230 may be about 10-20% of said maximum torque Tlmax.

Figure 3b schematically illustrates a diagram according to an aspect of the invention.

Hereby is illustrated a maximum available power Plmax from said power source 230 as a function of power source speed N. Said power is given in the unit Watt (W) and said power source speed N is given in revolutions per minute (RPM).

Said maximum provided torque Plmax is a predetermined function which may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. This provides that for every given power source speed a maximum power output is allowable.

According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided a new maximum available power P2max, which differs from said provided power Plmax. Said maximum provided power P2max is a predetermined function which may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. By providing this new maximum available power P2max, which is lower than said maximum power Plmax, a certain amount of available power is advantageously reserved, according to an embodiment, of the invention.

Thus, power provided by said power source 230 may, for any given power source speed N, be available for propelling said vehicle 100 and also driving at least one of said torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293. However, if a total required power of the vehicle 100 is greater than an available power P2max, said reserved power may be used for driving only said at least one of said torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293. The amount of power, which is the difference between said power Plmax and said power P2max is used only for driving said at least one torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293, not propulsion of the vehicle 100. This is controlled by said first control unit 200.

According to an embodiment it is reserved a predetermined amount of power of said power source 230 for a power source speed interval N3-N4 running above a certain power source speed value N3. Said certain power source speed value Nl may correspond to an idling speed of said power source 230, e.g. 500 or 800 RPM.

According to an embodiment said predetermined amount of power of said power source is reserved so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed. This means that if a certain amount of reserved torque is available within a portion of said power source speed interval N3-N4 at a lower end of said interval {closer to N3) is substantially the same within a portion of said power source speed interval N3-N4 at a higher end of said interval (closer to N4).

According to an example said reserved amount of power of said power source 230 may be about 10-20% of said maximum power Plmax.

Figure 4a is a schematic flowchart of a method for controlling the operation of a power source 230 of a vehicle 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method comprises a method step s401. The method step s401 comprises the steps of: - providing a maximum torque Tlmax and maximum power Plmax of said power source 230 for a certain power source speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4, respectively; - providing a new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max of said power source 230 for a certain power source speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4, respectively, available for propulsion of said vehicle 100 and operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100; and - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source 230 for at least, a portion of said power source speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4, respectively, in addition to said new maximum torque T2 and new maximum power P2, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100 only.

After the method step s401 the method ends.

Figure 4b is a schematic flowchart of a method for controlling the operation of an engine 230 of a vehicle 100, according to an embodiment of the invention. The method comprises a method step s402. The method step s402 comprises the steps of: - providing a maximum torque Tlmax and maximum power Pmaxl of said engine 230 for a certain engine speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4, respectively; ?• providing a new maximum torque Tmax2 and new maximum power P2max of said engine 230 for a certain engine speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4,. respectively, available for propulsion of said vehicle 100 and operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100; and - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine 230 for at least a portion of said engine speed interval N1-N2 and N2-N4, respectively, in addition to said new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100 only. The engine 230 may for example be a combustion engine. After the method step s402 the method ends.

Figure 4c is a more detailed schematic flowchart of a method for controlling the operation of a power source 230 of a vehicle 100, according to an embodiment of the invention.

The method comprises a method step s410. The method step s410 comprises the step of providing a maximum torque Tlmax and maximum power Plmax of said power source 230 for a certain power source speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4 respectively. The power source speed values Nl and N3 may be any suitable power source speed values, e.g. corresponding to an idle speed of said power source. Said power source speed values Nl and N3 may be mutually different or substantially identical. Said power source speed values N2 and N4 may be mutually different or substantially identical.

A function relating to said maximum torque Tlmax depending on a power source speed N may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. A function relating to said maximum power Plmax depending on a power source speed N may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. Said functions are according to an example predetermined functions.

After the method step s410 a subsequent method step s420 is performed.

The method step s420 comprises the method step of providing a new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max of said power source 230 for a certain power source speed interval N1--N2 and N3-N4, respectively, available for propulsion of said vehicle 100 and operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293 of the vehicle 100, These new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max is predetermined according to an embodiment. A function relating to said new maximum torque T2max depending on a power source speed N may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200. A function relating to said new maximum power P2max depending on a power source speed N may be stored in a memory of the first control unit 200.

After the method step s420 a subsequent method step s430 is performed.

The method step s430 comprises the step of reserving a predetermined amount, of torque and power of said power source 230 for at least a portion of said power source speed interval N1-N2 and N3-N4, respectively, in addition to said new maximum torque T2max and said new maximum power P2max, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

Hereby said first control unit 200 is arranged to control said power source 230 such that torque and power up to the limit T2max and P2max may be used for propelling the vehicle and if possible also drive said at least one torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293. Hereby said first control unit 200 is arranged to control said power source 230 such that torque and power up to the limit T2max and P2max may be used for propelling the vehicle and if possible also drive said hybrid system configuration comprising said energy store 255.

If a total demand of the torque/power consuming units and said hybrid system configuration together with required torque/power for propelling said vehicle 100 is greater than at least one of said new maximum torque T2max and said new maximum power P2max said reserved amount, of torque and power are used for driving the torque/power consuming units 291, 292 and 293 and said hybrid system configuration only.

Said reserved amount of torque may be smaller or larger than a difference between said new maximum torque T2max and said maximum torque Tlmax for any given power source speed. Said reserved amount of power may be smaller or larger than a difference between said new maximum power P2max and said maximum power Plmax for any given power source speed.

After the method step s430 the method ends.

Figure 5 is a diagram of one version of a device 500. The control units 200 and 210 described with reference to Figure 2 may in one version comprise the device 500. The device 500 comprises a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing unit 510 and a read/write memory 550. The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program, e.g. an operating system, is stored for controlling the function of the device 500. The device 500 further comprises a bus controller, a serial communication port, I/O means, an A/D converter, a time and date input and transfer unit, an event counter and an interruption controller (not depicted), The non-volatile memory 520 has also a second memory element 540.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program P comprising routines for controlling the operation of a power source 230 of a vehicle 100.

The computer program P comprises routines for providing a maximum torque Tlmax and maximum power Plmax of said power source for a certain power source speed interval Nl-N2, N3-N4.

The computer program P comprises routines for providing a new maximum torque T2 and new maximum power P2 of said power source 230 for a certain power source speed interval N1-N2, N3-N4 available for propulsion of said vehicle 100 and operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100.

The computer program P comprises routines for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval N1-N2, N3-N4 in addition to said new maximum torque T2 and new maximum power P2, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100 only.

The computer program P may comprise routines for reserving a predetermined amount of torque of said power source 230 for a power source speed interval Nl- N2 running above a certain power source speed value Nl.

The computer program P may comprise routines for reserving a predetermined amount of power P of said power source 230 for a power source speed interval N3-N4 running above a certain power source speed value N3.

The computer program P may comprise routines for reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed N.

The computer program P may comprise routines for reserving said predetermined amount of power of said power source 230 so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed N.

The computer program P may comprise routines for adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle, The computer program P may comprise routines for providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means 255 associated with a hybrid operation configuration of said vehicle 100.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a computer program P for controlling the operation of an engine 230 of a vehicle 100 comprising routines for; - providing a maximum torque Tlmax and power Plmax of said engine 230 for a certain engine speed interval N1-N2, N3-N4; - providing a new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max of said engine for a certain engine speed interval N1-N2, N3-N4 available for propulsion of said vehicle 100 and operation of torque/power consuming units 291, 292, 293 of the vehicle 100; and - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said engine 230 for at least a portion of said engine speed interval N1-N2, N3-N4 in addition to said new maximum torque T2max and new maximum power P2max, respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units of the vehicle only.

The program P may be stored in an executable form or in compressed form in a memory 560 and/or in a read/write memory 550.

Where it is stated that the data processing unit 510 performs a certain function, it means that it conducts a certain part of the program which is stored in the memory 560 or a certain part of the program which is stored in the read/write memory 550.

The data processing device 510 can communicate with a data port 599 via a data bus 515. The non-volatile memory 520 is intended for communication with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 512. The separate memory 560 is intended to communicate with the data processing unit via a data bus 511. The read/write memory 550 is arranged to communicate with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 514. The links L210, L230, L240, L250 and L260, for example, may be connected to the data port 599 (see Figure 2).

When data are received on the data port 599, they are stored temporarily in the second memory element 540. When input data received have been temporarily stored, the data processing unit 510 will be prepared to conduct code execution as described above. According to one embodiment signals received on the data port 599 comprises information about prevailing engine speed N of the engine 230. The signals received on the data port 299 may be used by the device 500 for controlling the operation of said engine 230 so that, when applicable, torque/power required for driving at least one torque/power consuming unit 291, 292, 293 may be provided with reserved torque/power above said maximum torque/power T2max and P2max.

Parts of the methods herein described may be conducted by the device 500 by means of the data processing unit. 510 which runs the program stored in the memory 560 or the read/write memory 550. When the device 500 runs the program, methods herein described are executed. The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes, it is not intended to be exhaustive, nor to limit the invention to the variants described. Many modifications and variations will obviously suggest themselves to one skilled in the art. The embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and their practical applications and thereby make it possible for one skilled in the art to understand the invention for different embodiments and with the various modifications appropriate to the intended use.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the operation of a power source (230) of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle (100), comprising the step of: - providing (s410) a maximum torque (Tlmax) and maximum power (Plmax) of said power source (230) for a certain power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4), characterized in the steps of: - providing (s420) a new maximum torque (T2max) and new maximum power (P2max) of said power source (230) for a certain power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4) available for propulsion of said vehicle (100) and operation of torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293; 255) of the vehicle (100); - reserving (s430) a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source (230) for at least a portion of said power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4) in addition to said new maximum torque (T2max) and new maximum power (P2max), respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293) of the vehicle (100) only; and - providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means (255) associated with a hybrid operation configuration (299) of said vehicle (100)..

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising the step of: - reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source (230) for a power source speed interval running above a certain power source speed value (Nl; N3).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said power source (230) so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed (N).

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, comprising the step of: - reserving said predetermined amount of power of said power source (230) so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed (N).

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, comprising the step of: - adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source (230) for at least a portion of said power source speed interval to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293) of the vehicle (100).

6. A system for controlling the operation of a power source (230) of a hybrid system configuration of a vehicle (100), comprising: - means (200; 210; 500) for providing a maximum torque (Tlmax) and power (Plmax) of said power source (230) for a certain power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4), characterized in: - means (200; 210; 500) for providing a new maximum torque (T2max) and new maximum power (P2max) of said power source (230) for a certain power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4) available for propulsion of said vehicle (100) and operation of torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293; 255) of the vehicle (100); - means for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source (230) for at least a portion of said power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4) in addition to said new maximum torque (T2max) and new maximum power (P2max), respectively, for operation of torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293) of the vehicle (100) only; and - means (200; 210; 500) for providing reserved torque/power for charging an energy storage means (255) associated with a hybrid operation configuration (299) of said vehicle (100).

7. The system according to claim 6, comprising: - means (200; 210; 500) for reserving a predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source (230) for a power source speed interval (N1-N2; N3-N4) running above a certain power source speed value (Nl; N3).

8. The system according to claim 6 or 7, comprising: - means (200; 210; 500) for reserving said predetermined amount of torque of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding torque is decreased with an increased power source speed (N).

9. The system according to any one of claims 6-8, comprising: - means (200; 210; 500) for reserving said predetermined amount of power of said power source so that said predetermined amount regarding power is substantially unchanged with an increased power source speed (N).

10. The system according to any one of claims 6-9, comprising: - means (200; 210; 500) for adapting said reserved predetermined amount of torque and power of said power source for at least a portion of said power source speed interval (Nl-N2; N3-N4) to the overall configuration of said torque/power consuming units (291; 292; 293) of the vehicle (100).

11. A motor vehicle (100; 110) comprising a system according to any of claims 6-10.

12. The motor vehicle (100; 110) according to claim 11, wherein said motor vehicle is any of a truck, bus or car.

13. A computer program (P) for controlling the operation of a power source (230) of a vehicle (100), wherein said computer program (P) comprises a program code for causing an electronic control unit (200; 500) or a computer (210; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500) to perform the steps according to any one of claims 1-5.

14. A computer program product comprising a program code stored on a computer readable medium for performing method steps according to any one of claims 1-5, when said program code is run on an electronic control unit (210; 500) or a computer (210; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500).