Scalable performance, efficiency and thermal models for electric drive components used in powertrain simulation and optimization

Abstract

A methodology for designing and scaling the performance and thermal characteristics of electric powertrain components is presented. This methodology is aimed at finding optimum component combinations based on a set of requirements. Both drive-cycle performance and specific operating modes such as curb-climbing and maximum wheel speed are considered. This allows the selection of electrical machine topology, the design and sizing of the related gearbox, as well as the power-electronic converter needed to fulfill the wheel torque and speed requirements for all operating points, including overloading. Utilizing subsystem-models inside an optimization loop, the powertrain components can be sized using a number of goals such as lowest cost, size, weight or combinations of these, while still fulfilling the target specifications for a number of powertrain layouts.