Published by ECN - featuring Bruno Lequesne, 2019-2020 TEC Chair

Automotive Engine Electrification Broadens Reach

by Bruno Lequesne, IEEE fellow

When thinking about the onset of engine electrification, some people initially reference the engine control unit (ECU), as well as the more recently introduced transmission control unit (TCU), since these ushered the era where electronics literally took control of engine operation. Today, beyond these “smarts,” there is a growing emphasis on the utilization of electric drive technology in engines and related peripheral automobile systems. While hybrid and electric vehicles have gotten a lot of well-deserved press due to the notable technical achievements that have been realized, there is also a lot more opportunity for utilizing electrification throughout the automobile. These areas include fuel injectors, valvetrain systems, exhaust recovery, superchargers, power steering systems and other accessory motors, and, of course, generators, starter-generators, and hybrid motors. Below we explore a few examples of recent, past, and future applications, as well as motor technology developments.

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Upcoming Webinar:

High Efficiency Wireless Charging of Electric Vehicles
Presented by Chris Mi
Thursday, May 16, 2019, 11:00am

Abstract:  Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology offers significant improvement in convenience and electric safety for electric vehicle (EV) charging. Both capacitive and inductive wireless power transfer technology have been investigated for various applications. Experiments show that tens of kilowatts of power transfer can be achieved over 200mm distance with an efficiency of 97% (DC-DC), and an alignment tolerance of up to 300mm.

In this presentation, we will first look at the basic principle of WPT and its applications. Then we will show that safety is still one of the major concerns of WPT system for both inductive and capacitive power transfer. Then, we will discuss two unique topologies, the double-sided LCC topology which is one of the recommended topologies by the SAE J2954 standard for EV passenger car applications, and the LCLC topology for capacitive wireless power transfer. Finally, we will show some case studies that can be potentially commercialized with economic and safety viability. The application of WPT in various automotive vehicles will be discussed, including automatic guided vehicles (AGV), low-speed maglev trains, transit buses, elevators, delivery trucks, and fast charging of passenger cars.    Read more.

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