Virtual Mock-Up Hybrid Electric Vehicle Development

Abstract

The hybrid electric and electric mobility constitutes a revolutionary technology for the automotive industry. In response to the stringent regulations and requirements enforced, vehicle manufacturers are developing new strategies, using hybrid electric or electric powertrain solutions. In order to reach the goal of using alternative powertrain solutions, it is important to integrate different devices from the early development stages and to optimize their behaviour. However, with a minimum of one electric machine, two different energy storage devices, and one transmission architecture, a hybrid electric powertrain triggers more concerns surrounding energy flows. The virtual mock-up hybrid electric vehicle was developed following the “V” cycle. Three basic steps during which the mechanical systems are developed in conjunction with the electronic systems characterize the virtual mock-up development. Starting by choosing the powertrain architecture it is needed to select the components and the control system design. In the end, the validation for the obtained mock-up is required. The powertrain components were integrated in the mock-up virtual hybrid electric vehicle to study their behaviour during a predefined driving cycle. In order to validate the mock-up vehicle, a real time simulation and testing rig has to be used to evaluate and improve interaction of control systems on several levels, indicating interaction problems between several virtual and physical components during an early stage of the system development process.