US7237634B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Hybrid vehicles
Assignee: Abell Foundation
•
Filing: 2006-01-13
•
Granted: 2007-07-03
•
Expires: 2026-01-13
Abstract
Abstract A hybrid vehicle comprises an internal combustion engine, a traction motor, a starter motor, and a battery bank, all controlled by a microprocessor in accordance with the vehicle's instantaneous torque demands so that the engine is run only under conditions of high efficiency, typically only when the load is at least equal to 30% of the engine's maximum torque output. In some embodiments, a turbocharger may be provided, activated only when the load exceeds the engine's maximum torque output for an extended period; a two-speed transmission may further be provided, to further broaden the vehicle's load range. A hybrid brake system provides regenerative braking, with mechanical braking available in the event the battery bank is fully charged, in emergencies, or at rest; a control mechanism is provided to control the brake system to provide linear brake feel under varying circumstances.
Inventors
- 👤 Alex J. Severinsky
- 👤 Theodore Louckes
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-28 07:28
CPC Classifications
B; B60; B60L; B60L53/00; B60H; B60H1/00; B60H1/00357; B60H1/00385; B60H1/004; B60H1/32; B60H1/3204; B60H1/3222; B60K; B60K1/00; B60K1/02; B60K6/00; B60K6/20; B60K6/22; B60K6/36; B60K6/365; B60K6/42; B60K6/44; B60K6/442; B60K6/46; B60K6/48; B60K6/485; B60K6/50; B60K6/54; B60K6/547; B60L15/00; B60L15/20; B60L15/2045; B60L50/00; B60L50/10; B60L50/16; B60L50/50; B60L50/60; B60L50/61; B60L53/20; B60L58/00; B60L58/10; B60L58/12; B60L7/00; B60L7/10; B60L7/18; B60L7/24; B60L7/26; B60T; B60T11/00; B60T11/10; B60T11/16; B60T11/18; B60T13/00; B60T13/10; B60T13/58; B60T13/585; B60T13/586; B60T7/00; B60T7/02; B60T7/04; B60T7/06; B60T8/00; B60T8/17; B60T8/172; B60W; B60W10/00; B60W10/04; B60W10/06; B60W10/08; B60W10/18; B60W10/24; B60W10/26; B60W20/00; B60W20/10; B60W20/13; B60W20/14; B60W20/15; B60W20/30; B60W30/00; B60W30/18; B60W30/18009; B60W30/18109; B60W30/18127; F; F01; F01N; F01N3/00; F01N3/08; F01N3/10; F01N3/18; F01N3/20; F01N3/2006; F01N3/2013; F02; F02B; F02B37/00; F02B37/12; F02B37/16; F02B37/18; F02D; F02D41/00; F02D41/0002; F02D41/0007; F02M; F02M35/00; F02M35/10; F02M35/1015; F02M35/10157; F02M35/10163; H; H01; H01M; H01M10/00; H01M10/42; H01M10/4207; B60K6/26; B60K2006/268; B60L2200/00; B60L2200/26; B60L2210/00; B60L2210/20; B60L2220/00; B60L2220/10; B60L2220/12; B60L2220/14; B60L2220/16; B60L2240/00; B60L2240/10; B60L2240/34; B60L2240/36; B60L2240/40; B60L2240/42; B60L2240/423; B60L2240/44; B60L2240/443; B60L2240/445; B60L2260/00; B60L2260/20; B60L2260/28; B60L2270/00; B60L2270/10; B60L2270/14; B60L2270/145; B60T2270/00; B60T2270/60; B60T2270/604; B60W2510/00; B60W2510/06; B60W2510/0633; B60W2510/0657; B60W2510/24; B60W2510/242; B60W2510/244; B60W2530/00; B60W2530/16; B60W2540/00; B60W2540/12; B60W2710/00; B60W2710/08; B60W2710/18; B60W2710/24; B60W2710/242; B60W2710/244; B60Y; B60Y2200/00; B60Y2200/90; B60Y2200/91; B60Y2200/92; B60Y2300/00; B60Y2300/18; B60Y2300/18008; B60Y2300/18108; B60Y2300/18125; B60Y2300/91; B60Y2400/00; B60Y2400/11; B60Y2400/112; B60Y2400/43; B60Y2400/435; B60Y2400/81; F02D2250/00; F02D2250/18; F02N; F02N11/00; F02N11/08; F02N11/0814; F02N11/0818; F02N2200/00; F02N2200/06; F02N2200/061; H01M2220/00; H01M2220/20; Y; Y02; Y02A; Y02A50/00; Y02A50/20; Y02E; Y02E60/00; Y02E60/10; Y02T; Y02T10/00; Y02T10/10; Y02T10/12; Y02T10/60; Y02T10/62; Y02T10/64; Y02T10/70; Y02T10/7072; Y02T10/72; Y02T90/00; Y02T90/10; Y02T90/14; Y10; Y10S; Y10S903/00; Y10S903/902; Y10S903/903; Y10S903/904; Y10S903/907; Y10S903/93; Y10S903/946; Y10S903/947
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 328
Claim 1
Independent Claim
196 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when torque required from the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first or the second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a setpoint (SP) above which the torque produced by the engine is efficiently produced, and wherein the torque produced by the engine when operated at the SP is substantially less than the maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
196 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when torque required from the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first or the second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a setpoint (SP) above which the torque produced by the engine is efficiently produced, and wherein the torque produced by the engine when operated at the SP is substantially less than the maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
29 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to stop the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
33 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to stop the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
32 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein to operate the engine, the controller is operable to start the engine via the first electric motor if the engine is not already running.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further operable to monitor patterns of vehicle operation over time and vary the SP accordingly.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
84 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further operable to: monitor road load (RL) on the hybrid vehicle over time; and control transition between propulsion of the hybrid vehicle by the first and/or the second electric motors to propulsion by the engine responsive to the RL reaching the SP, wherein the transition only occurs when: the RL>the SP for at least a first length of time; or the RL>a second setpoint (SP 2 ), wherein the SP 2 >the SP.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
44 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 6 , wherein if the engine is not started, the controller is operable to start the engine for the transition between propulsion of the hybrid vehicle by the first and/or the second electric motors to propulsion by the engine.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
53 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 6 , wherein the controller is further operable to control transition from propulsion of the hybrid vehicle by the engine to propulsion by the first and/or the second electric motors such that the transition occurs only when the RL<the SP for at least a second length of time.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 8 , wherein the first length of time is the same as the second length of time.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 8 , wherein the first length of time and the second length of time are predetermined.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 8 , wherein the controller is further operable to stop the engine after the transition between propulsion of the hybrid vehicle by the engine to propulsion by the first and/or the second electric motors.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
24 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to vary the SP as a function of speed of the engine.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
23 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 20% of the MTO of the engine when normally-aspirated.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO of the engine when normally-aspirated.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
23 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the SP is less than approximately 70% of the MTO of the engine when normally-aspirated.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
174 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to implement a plurality of operating modes responsive to road load (RL) and the SP, wherein both the RL and the SP are expressed as percentages of the MTO of the engine when normally-aspirated, and wherein the operating modes comprise: a low-load mode I, wherein, when the RL<the SP, the second electric motor is operable to provide torque to propel the hybrid vehicle; a highway cruising mode IV, wherein, when the SP<the RL<the MTO, the engine is operable to provide torque to propel the hybrid vehicle, and wherein the controller is operable to start the engine if the engine is not running to enter the highway cruising mode IV; and an acceleration mode V, wherein, when the RL>the MTO, the engine, the first electric motor, and/or the second electric motor is operable to provide torque to propel the hybrid vehicle, and wherein the controller is operable to start the engine if the engine is not running to enter the acceleration mode V.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
56 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 16 , wherein the controller is operable to decouple the engine and the first electric motor from the one or more wheels during operation in the mode I and couple the engine and the first electric motor to the one or more wheels during operation in the modes IV and V.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
111 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 16 , wherein the plurality of operating modes further comprise a low-speed battery charging mode II, wherein, when the RL<the SP and a state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level: the controller is operable to decouple the engine and the first electric motor from the one or more wheels and start the engine if the engine is not running to enter the battery charging mode II; the second electric motor is operable to provide torque to propel the hybrid vehicle; and the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to the first motor for charging the battery.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
65 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 16 , wherein the controller is operable to control direct transition from operation of the hybrid vehicle in the mode I to operation of the hybrid vehicle in the mode V in response to operator input, and wherein the operator input specifies a rapid increase in torque to be applied to the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
68 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 16 , further comprising a turbocharger controllably coupled to the internal combustion engine, operable to increase the MTO of the engine; wherein the plurality of operation modes further comprise a sustained high-power turbocharged mode VI, wherein, when the RL>the MTO for more than a predetermined time T, the controller is operable to engage the turbocharger to increase the effective MTO of the engine.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
27 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 20 , wherein the controller is operable to vary the time T with respect to a state of charge of the battery.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , further comprising a turbocharger controllably coupled to the internal combustion engine, operable to increase the MTO of the engine.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
57 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to receive operator input of a desired cruising speed, and thereafter control instantaneous torque output of the engine and/or one or more of the first or the second electric motors in accordance with variation in RL so as to maintain a substantially constant vehicle speed.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
39 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the battery is operable to be regeneratively charged when instantaneous torque output by the internal combustion engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by the operator.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
35 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein total torque available to the one or more wheels from the engine is no greater than total torque available from the first and second electric motors combined.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
51 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the engine and first electric motor are coupled to a first set of the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle and the second electric motor is coupled to a second set of the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , further comprising a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
38 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to rotate the engine via the first electric motor before starting the engine such that cylinders of the engine are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
71 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to limit a rate of change of torque produced by the engine, such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, and wherein if the engine is incapable of supplying an instantaneous torque required, the controller is operable to transfer additional torque from one or more of the first or the second electric motors.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
26 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
88 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 30 , wherein the clutch connects a first output shaft of or driven by the engine and the first electric motor with a second output shaft of or driven by the second electric motor coupled to the one or more wheels, and wherein the controller is operable to control the speeds of the engine and the first electric motor and of the second motor such that when the clutch is engaged, the speeds of the first and second output shafts are substantially equal.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
36 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the controller is operable to start and operate the engine at torque output levels less than SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 34
Independent Claim
146 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and monitoring patterns of vehicle operation over time and varying the SP accordingly.
Claim 35
Independent Claim
146 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and monitoring patterns of vehicle operation over time and varying the SP accordingly.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store power from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit power to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
59 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: monitoring the RL over time; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when: the RL>the SP for at least a predetermined time; or the RL>a second setpoint (SP 2 ), wherein the SP 2 is a larger percentage of the MTO than the SP.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: monitoring the RL over time; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when the RL<the SP for at least a predetermined amount of time.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 43 , further comprising: decoupling the engine from wheels of the hybrid vehicle for operation in mode I; and coupling the engine to the wheels for operation in modes IV and V.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
197 words
The method of claim 43 , wherein the at least one electric motors comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to store power from the engine and/or the at least one electric motor and transmit power to the at least one electric motor to propel the vehicle; operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level and when the RL<the SP, wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery composes a low-load battery charging mode II, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises: decoupling the engine from wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and the engine providing torque at least equal to the SP to the first electric motor to charge the battery; wherein during said operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level, the hybrid vehicle is propelled by torque provided by the second electric motor in response to energy supplied by the battery.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 43 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
98 words
The method of claim 43 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, and wherein said operating both the engine and the at least one electric motor occurs when the RL>the MTO for less than a predetermined time T, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired, wherein said operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine occurs when the RL>the MTO for more than the predetermined time T, and wherein said operating the turbocharger composes a turbocharged operation mode VI.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 47 , further comprising: varying the time T responsive to the state of charge of the battery.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
68 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: controlling the engine such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, wherein said controlling the engine comprises limiting a rate of change of torque output of the engine; and if the engine is incapable of supplying instantaneous torque required to propel the hybrid vehicle, supplying additional torque from the at least one electric motor.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 33 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
18 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 56 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
17 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 56 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
166 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises: a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; a second AC-DC converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
28 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 61 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
28 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 61 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
22 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 61 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 61 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
30 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 27 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
44 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the second electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 68 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 68 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 33 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 73 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 73 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 73 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 73 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 51 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
44 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the second electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 82
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; monitoring the RL over time; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and wherein said operating the internal combustion engine to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when: the RL>the SP for at least a predetermined time; or the RL>a second setpoint (SP 2 ), wherein the SP 2 is a larger percentage of the MTO than the SP; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
186 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; monitoring the RL over time; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and wherein said operating the internal combustion engine to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when: the RL>the SP for at least a predetermined time; or the RL>a second setpoint (SP 2 ), wherein the SP 2 is a larger percentage of the MTO than the SP; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 81 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 81 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 86 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 86 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 86 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 86 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store energy from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: monitoring the RL over time; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when the RL<the SP for at least a predetermined amount of time.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 99 , wherein the engine can be operated in mode I without transmitting power to the wheels.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
197 words
The method of claim 99 , wherein the at least one electric motors comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to store power from the engine and/or the at least one electric motor and transmit power to the at least one electric motor to propel the vehicle; operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level and when the RL<the SP, wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery composes a low-load battery charging mode II, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises: decoupling the engine from wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and the engine providing torque at least equal to the SP to the first electric motor to charge the battery; wherein during said operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level, the hybrid vehicle is propelled by torque provided by the second electric motor in response to energy supplied by the battery.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 99 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
98 words
The method of claim 99 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, and wherein said operating both the engine and the at least one electric motor occurs when the RL>the MTO for less than a predetermined time T, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired, wherein said operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine occurs when the RL>the MTO for more than the predetermined time T, and wherein said operating the turbocharger composes a turbocharged operation mode VI.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 103 , further comprising: varying the time T responsive to the state of charge of the battery.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 107 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
68 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: controlling the engine such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, wherein said controlling the engine comprises limiting a rate of change of torque output of the engine; and if the engine is incapable of supplying instantaneous torque required to propel the hybrid vehicle, supplying additional torque from the at least one electric motor.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 80 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
43 words
The method of claim 80 , wherein the second electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 117
Independent Claim
167 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; monitoring the RL over time; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when the RL<the SP for at least a predetermined amount of time; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO.
Claim 118
Independent Claim
167 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; monitoring the RL over time; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle is performed when the RL<the SP for at least a predetermined amount of time; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 115 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 115 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 120 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 120 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 120 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 120 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store energy from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 135
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 136
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 137
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 132 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to wheels of the hybrid vehicle in mode I.
Claim 138
Dependent Claim
197 words
The method of claim 132 , wherein the at least one electric motors comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to store energy from the engine and/or the at least one electric motor and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the vehicle; operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level and when the RL<the SP, wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery composes a low-load battery charging mode II, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises: decoupling the engine from wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and the engine providing torque at least equal to the SP to the first electric motor to charge the battery; wherein during said operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level, the hybrid vehicle is propelled by torque provided by the second electric motor in response to energy supplied by the battery.
Claim 139
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 132 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 140
Dependent Claim
98 words
The method of claim 132 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, and wherein said operating both the engine and the at least one electric motor occurs when the RL>the MTO for less than a predetermined time T, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired, wherein said operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine occurs when the RL>the MTO for more than the predetermined time T, and wherein said operating the turbocharger composes a turbocharged operation mode VI.
Claim 141
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 136 , further comprising: varying the time T responsive to the state of charge of the battery.
Claim 142
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the hybrid vehicle further comprises a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine, wherein the method further comprises: operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine when desired.
Claim 143
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 144
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 145
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 140 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 146
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 147
Dependent Claim
68 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: controlling the engine such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, wherein said controlling the engine comprises limiting a rate of change of torque output of the engine; and if the engine is incapable of supplying instantaneous torque required to propel the hybrid vehicle, supplying additional torque from the at least one electric motor.
Claim 148
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 149
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 114 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 150
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 114 , wherein the at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 151
Independent Claim
407 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle comprises a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle comprises a highway cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle comprises an acceleration operation mode V; monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to store power from the engine and/or the at least one first electric motor and transmit power to the at least one first electric motor to propel the vehicle; and operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level and when the RL<the SP, wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises a low-load battery charging mode II, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises: operating the engine without transferring power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and the engine providing torque at least equal to the SP to the at least one first electric motor to charge the battery; wherein during said operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level, the hybrid vehicle is propelled by torque provided by at least one second electric motor in response to energy supplied by the battery.
Claim 152
Independent Claim
407 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle comprises a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle comprises a highway cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle comprises an acceleration operation mode V; monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to store power from the engine and/or the at least one first electric motor and transmit power to the at least one first electric motor to propel the vehicle; and operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level and when the RL<the SP, wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises a low-load battery charging mode II, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises: operating the engine without transferring power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and the engine providing torque at least equal to the SP to the at least one first electric motor to charge the battery; wherein during said operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined level, the hybrid vehicle is propelled by torque provided by at least one second electric motor in response to energy supplied by the battery.
Claim 153
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 154
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 148 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 155
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 148 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 156
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 157
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 158
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 159
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 153 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 160
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 153 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 161
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 153 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 162
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 153 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 163
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein the engine can be operated without transferring power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 164
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 147 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 165
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 147 , wherein the at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 166
Independent Claim
268 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V; receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 167
Independent Claim
268 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V; receiving operator input specifying a change in required torque to be applied to wheels of the hybrid vehicle; and if the received operator input specifies a rapid increase in the required torque, changing operation from operating mode I directly to operating mode V.
Claim 168
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 169
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 170
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 171
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 172
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 173
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 174
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 167 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 175
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 167 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 176
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 167 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 177
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 167 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 178
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein said engine can be operated without transmitting power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 179
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 161 , wherein said at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 180
Independent Claim
305 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V, and wherein said operating both the engine and the at least one electric motor occurs when the RL>the MTO for less than a predetermined time T; and operating a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine to increase the MTO of the engine when desired, wherein said operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine occurs when the RL>the MTO for more than the predetermined time T, and wherein said operating the turbocharger composes a turbocharged operation mode VI.
Claim 181
Independent Claim
305 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and a setpoint (SP); operating at least one first electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than the SP; wherein said operating the at least one first electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; wherein said operating both the at least one first electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V, and wherein said operating both the engine and the at least one electric motor occurs when the RL>the MTO for less than a predetermined time T; and operating a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine to increase the MTO of the engine when desired, wherein said operating the turbocharger to increase the MTO of the engine occurs when the RL>the MTO for more than the predetermined time T, and wherein said operating the turbocharger composes a turbocharged operation mode VI.
Claim 182
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 183
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 184
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 185
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 186
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 187
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 188
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 180 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 189
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 180 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 190
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 180 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 191
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 180 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 192
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 193
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 174 , further comprising: varying the time T responsive to the state of charge of the battery.
Claim 194
Dependent Claim
46 words
The method of claim 174 , wherein the at least one first electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 195
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and operating a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine to increase the MTO of the engine when desired.
Claim 196
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and operating a turbocharger controllably coupled to the engine to increase the MTO of the engine when desired.
Claim 197
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 198
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 189 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 199
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 189 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 200
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 201
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 202
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 203
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 194 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 204
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 194 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 205
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 194 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 206
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 194 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 207
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 208
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 209
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store power from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit power to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 210
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 211
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 212
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 213
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 214
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 215
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 216
Dependent Claim
41 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 217
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 218
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 209 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 219
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 220
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 221
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 188 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 222
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 188 , wherein at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 223
Independent Claim
168 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 224
Independent Claim
168 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and regeneratively charging a battery of the hybrid vehicle when instantaneous torque output of the engine>the RL, when the RL is negative, and/or when braking is initiated by an operator of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 225
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 226
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 216 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 227
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 216 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 228
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 229
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 230
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 231
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 221 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 232
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 221 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 233
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 221 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 234
Dependent Claim
21 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 221 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 235
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 236
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 237
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store energy from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 238
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 239
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 240
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 241
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 242
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 243
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 244
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 245
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 235 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gearbox.
Claim 246
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 247
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 248
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 215 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 249
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 215 , wherein the at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 250
Independent Claim
194 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; controlling said engine such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, wherein said controlling the engine comprises limiting a rate of change of torque output of the engine; and if the engine is incapable of supplying instantaneous torque required to propel the hybrid vehicle, supplying additional torque from the at least one electric motor.
Claim 251
Independent Claim
194 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; and operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; controlling said engine such that combustion of fuel within the engine occurs substantially at a stoichiometric ratio, wherein said controlling the engine comprises limiting a rate of change of torque output of the engine; and if the engine is incapable of supplying instantaneous torque required to propel the hybrid vehicle, supplying additional torque from the at least one electric motor.
Claim 252
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 253
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 242 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 254
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 242 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 255
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 256
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 257
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 258
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 247 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 259
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 247 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 260
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 247 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 261
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 247 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 262
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 263
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 264
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store energy from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 265
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 266
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 267
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 268
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 269
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 270
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 271
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 272
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 261 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gear mechanism.
Claim 273
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 274
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 275
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 241 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 276
Dependent Claim
45 words
The method of claim 241 , wherein the at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 277
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 278
Independent Claim
152 words
A method for controlling a hybrid vehicle, comprising: determining instantaneous road load (RL) required to propel the hybrid vehicle responsive to an operator command; operating at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is less than a setpoint (SP); operating an internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle when the RL required to do so is between the SP and a maximum torque output (MTO) of the engine, wherein the engine is operable to efficiently produce torque above the SP, and wherein the SP is substantially less than the MTO; operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle when the torque RL required to do so is more than the MTO; and rotating the engine before starting the engine such that its cylinders are heated by compression of air therein.
Claim 279
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying energy from a battery; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied is at least 2.5.
Claim 280
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 268 , wherein the maximum DC voltage is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 281
Dependent Claim
16 words
The method of claim 268 , wherein the maximum current is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 282
Dependent Claim
36 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 283
Dependent Claim
35 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 284
Dependent Claim
201 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein the at least one electric motor comprises a first electric motor and a second electric motor, the method further comprising: operating a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter having an AC side coupled to the second electric motor, wherein said operating the first AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC or DC current and converting the current to DC or AC current respectively; operating a second AC-DC converter coupled to a first electric motor, wherein said operating the second AC-DC converter comprises accepting AC current and converting the current to DC; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor comprises supplying power from a battery; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters; storing DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and providing DC energy to at least said first AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; and wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage on the DC side of at least said first AC-DC converter coupled to said second electric motor to current supplied from said battery to at least said first AC-DC converter, when maximum current is so supplied, is at least 2.5.
Claim 285
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 273 , wherein the maximum DC voltage on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 286
Dependent Claim
27 words
The method of claim 273 , wherein the maximum DC current on the DC side of either of said AC-DC converters is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 287
Dependent Claim
21 words
The method of claim 273 , wherein a maximum DC voltage supplied from said battery is at least approximately 500 volts.
Claim 288
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 273 , wherein a maximum current supplied from said battery is less than approximately 150 amperes.
Claim 289
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle is less than the SP.
Claim 290
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: turning off the engine when the torque required to propel the vehicle and/or charge the battery is less than the SP.
Claim 291
Dependent Claim
54 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: monitoring a state of charge of a battery comprised in the hybrid vehicle, wherein the battery is operable to: store energy from the at least one electric motor and/or the engine; and transmit energy to the at least one electric motor to propel the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 292
Dependent Claim
124 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: operating the engine to charge the battery when the state of charge of the battery indicates the need to do so, wherein the engine is operable to provide torque at least equal to the SP to propel the hybrid vehicle and to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, wherein a first portion of the torque equal to RL is used to propel the hybrid vehicle, wherein a second portion of the torque in excess of RL is used to drive the at least one electric motor to charge the battery, and wherein said operating the engine to charge the battery comprises if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 293
Dependent Claim
52 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle and said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle, each comprises: if the engine is not already running, starting the engine.
Claim 294
Dependent Claim
51 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: receiving operator input specifying a desired cruising speed; controlling instantaneous engine torque output and operation of the at least one electric motor in accordance with variation in the RL to maintain the speed of the hybrid vehicle according to the desired cruising speed.
Claim 295
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein the SP is at least approximately 30% of the MTO.
Claim 296
Dependent Claim
95 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein the hybrid vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes corresponding to values for the RL and the SP; wherein said operating the at least one electric motor to drive the hybrid vehicle composes a low-load operation mode I; wherein said operating the internal combustion engine of the hybrid vehicle to propel the hybrid vehicle composes a high-way cruising operation mode IV; and wherein said operating both the at least one electric motor and the engine to propel the hybrid vehicle composes an acceleration operation mode V.
Claim 297
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 285 , wherein the engine can be operated without transfer of power to the wheels of the hybrid vehicle during operation in mode I.
Claim 298
Dependent Claim
25 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein the hybrid vehicle comprises a variable-ratio transmission disposed between the engine and the wheels of the hybrid vehicle.
Claim 299
Dependent Claim
14 words
The method of claim 287 , wherein said variable-ratio transmission comprises a planetary gearbox.
Claim 300
Dependent Claim
24 words
The method of claim 267 , wherein the engine is controllably coupled to one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle by a clutch.
Claim 301
Dependent Claim
30 words
The method of claim 267 , further comprising: operating the engine at torque output levels less than the SP under abnormal and transient conditions to satisfy drivability and/or safety considerations.
Claim 302
Dependent Claim
46 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 267 , wherein the at least one electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of torque from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 303
Dependent Claim
314 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a DC voltage having a peak of at least 500 volts.
Claim 304
Dependent Claim
314 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a DC voltage having a peak of at least 500 volts.
Claim 305
Dependent Claim
29 words
The vehicle of claim 292 wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a maximum current of no more than about 75 amperes.
Claim 306
Dependent Claim
313 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a maximum current of no more than about 75 amperes.
Claim 307
Dependent Claim
313 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a maximum current of no more than about 75 amperes.
Claim 308
Dependent Claim
322 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a voltage and current such that the ratio of voltage to current is at least about 2.5 to 1.
Claim 309
Dependent Claim
322 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a voltage and current such that the ratio of voltage to current is at least about 2.5 to 1.
Claim 310
Dependent Claim
314 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a voltage having a peak of at least about 800 volts.
Claim 311
Dependent Claim
314 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a voltage having a peak of at least about 800 volts.
Claim 312
Dependent Claim
28 words
The vehicle of claim 296 wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a peak current of no more than 150 amperes.
Claim 313
Dependent Claim
312 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a maximum current of no more than 150 amperes.
Claim 314
Dependent Claim
312 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine and said first and second motors so that said vehicle is operated in a plurality of operating modes responsive to said signals; and wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the solid state inverter at a maximum current of no more than 150 amperes.
Claim 315
Dependent Claim
289 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine such that said engine is operated only above a setpoint (SP), said setpoint SP varying as a function of said vehicle operating parameters.
Claim 316
Dependent Claim
289 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: a controller capable of accepting inputs indicative of vehicle operating parameters and providing control signals in response to a control program; a battery bank; an internal combustion engine operable to provide propulsive torque to road wheels of said vehicle; a first AC electric starting motor electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to said internal combustion engine, and responsive to commands from said controller for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank, such that said first electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept torque from said engine to charge said battery bank, and (2) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said engine for starting said engine; a second AC electric traction motor, electrically coupled to said battery bank and mechanically coupled to road wheels of said vehicle, and responsive to commands from said controller, for (a) accepting electrical energy from said battery bank and (b) providing electrical energy to said battery bank such that said second electric motor can be controlled to (1) accept energy from said battery bank to apply torque to said road wheels to propel said vehicle, and (2) accept torque from said road wheels to charge said battery bank; a solid state inverter connected to the second AC motor for converting DC to AC and AC to DC; wherein said controller is provided with signals responsive to the instantaneous road load experienced by said vehicle and to the state of charge of said battery bank, and controls operation of said engine such that said engine is operated only above a setpoint (SP), said setpoint SP varying as a function of said vehicle operating parameters.
Claim 317
Dependent Claim
18 words
The vehicle of claim 299 , wherein said setpoint SP is varied as a function of vehicle speed.
Claim 318
Dependent Claim
44 words
The hybrid vehicle of claim 299 , wherein the second electric motor is sufficiently powerful to provide acceleration of said vehicle sufficient to conform to the Federal urban cycle driving fuel mileage test without use of power from the engine to propel the vehicle.
Claim 319
Dependent Claim
322 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied from said battery, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is at least 2.5; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 320
Dependent Claim
322 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein a ratio of maximum DC voltage to maximum current supplied from said battery, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is at least 2.5; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 321
Dependent Claim
315 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein the peak DC voltage, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is at least about 500 volts; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 322
Dependent Claim
315 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein the peak DC voltage, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is at least about 500 volts; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 323
Dependent Claim
316 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein the peak DC current, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is no more than about 150 amperes; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 324
Dependent Claim
316 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; a first alternating current-direct current (AC-DC) converter coupled to said first electric motor, at least operable to accept AC current and convert the current to DC; a second AC-DC converter having an AC side coupled to said second electric motor, operable to accept AC or DC current and convert the current to DC or AC current respectively; wherein said battery is coupled to a DC side of said AC-DC converters, wherein said battery is operable to store DC energy received from said AC-DC converters and provide DC energy to at least said second AC-DC converter for providing power to at least said second electric motor; wherein the peak DC current, measured on the DC side of at least said second AC-DC converter, is no more than about 150 amperes; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 325
Dependent Claim
209 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the second motor at a peak voltage of at least about 500 volts; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 326
Dependent Claim
209 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein energy originating at the battery is supplied to the second motor at a peak voltage of at least about 500 volts; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 327
Dependent Claim
209 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein power originating at the battery is supplied to the second motor at a peak current no greater than about 150 amperes; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
Claim 328
Dependent Claim
209 words
A hybrid vehicle, comprising: one or more wheels; an internal combustion engine operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a first electric motor coupled to the engine; a second electric motor operable to propel the hybrid vehicle by providing torque to the one or more wheels; a battery coupled to the first and second electric motors, operable to: provide current to the first and/or the second electric motors; and accept current from the first and second electric motors; and a controller, operable to control the flow of electrical and mechanical power between the engine, the first and the second electric motors, and the one or more wheels; wherein power originating at the battery is supplied to the second motor at a peak current no greater than about 150 amperes; and wherein the controller is operable to operate the engine when the power required from the engine to satisfy the road load experienced by the vehicle and/or to drive one or more of the first and second motors to charge the battery is at least equal to a minimum value at which power is efficiently produced by said engine but that is substantially less than the maximum power output of the engine.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2010-07-02 | 2011-01-01 | 2011-07-03 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2014-07-02 | 2015-01-01 | 2015-07-03 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2018-07-02 | 2019-01-01 | 2019-07-03 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |