A novel EMS design framework for SPHTs based on instantaneous layer, driving event layer, and driving cycle layer

To effectively harness the energy-saving potential of series–parallel hybrid transmissions (SPHTs) with multiple gears and modes and to enhance the driving cycle adaptability of the rule-based energy management strategy (RB EMS), this study establishes a novel EMS design framework for SPHTs at three levels: the instantaneous, the driving event, and the driving cycle layers. Firstly, an equivalent fuel factor based on the principles of energy conservation and calorific value measurements is constructed, the energy consumption of different working modes and torque combinations under different instantaneous power units is determined, and the decision conditions of working modes are determined. Secondly, the energy consumption of engine and motor torque combination under constant speed, acceleration and deceleration driving events is compared, and the torque distribution feature of multi-power sources is determined. Thirdly, a driving cycle distribution factor is introduced and calculated using vehicle navigation map information, which can adjust the gear switching condition of parallel driving mode online. Based on above, an RB EMS adjusted with driving cycles (ADC-RB EMS) is proposed. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is then verified through real-world vehicle tests. The fuel consumption performance of this strategy falls between the RB EMS and the dynamic programming (DP) strategy. According to the fuel consumption results, the RB EMS consumes an additional 0.35 L/100 km of fuel, while the DP strategy saves only 3.66% more energy compared to this strategy. The application potential of driving cycle distribution factor in instantaneous optimal control is tested. Compared with ADC-RB and CD-CS, the fuel saving rate is 1.71% and 5.67% respectively, which proves the energy saving performance of A-ECMS. This study provides a development direction for improving the energy saving effect of the RB EMS.