Definition of a rule-based energy management controller for the simulation of a plug-in hybrid vehicle using power and on-board measured data 2024-37-0016

Vehicle powertrain electrification is considered one of the main measures adopted by vehicle manufacturers to achieve the CO2 emissions targets. Although the development of vehicles with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains is based on existing platforms, the complexity of the system is significantly increased. As a result, the demands of testing during the development and calibration stages is getting significantly higher. To compensate that, high-fidelity simulation models are used as a cost-effective solution. This paper aims to present the methodology followed for the development of a rule-based energy management controller for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and to describe the experimental campaign carried out with this passenger car. The controller is implemented in a vehicle simulation model that is parametrized to replicate the operation of the vehicle. Using such a model it is possible to carry out virtual tests, aiming towards energy management optimization and efficiency improvement. The main target of the experimental campaign and the data analysis was to define the operational and energy management strategy of the vehicle using a back engineering approach. Laboratory tests were performed under standard (i.e., legislated cycles) and real-world driving profiles. In addition to the standard fuel consumption and emissions measurements, a power analyzer was used for the measurement of the currents and voltages and the electric power calculation of the main powertrain components (electric machine and high voltage battery). The power calculation allowed the evaluation of the power flow within the powertrain and the individual components (i.e., battery, electric machine). In addition, on-board data, such as battery state of charge, engine torque and total energy consumption were recorded from the on-board diagnostic (OBD). All the recorded data and the observations made during the experimental campaign and were used to define the appropriate rules for the developed controller.