| A simulation-based, systems engineering approach to the optimal design of complex, diesel-based powertrains has been addressed in this work from the perspective of maximizing vehicle fuel economy. A framework and methodology for the design of a diesel engine within a conventional and hybrid electric vehicle have been proposed, and contrasted with optima from traditional engine design and selection processes.; The main contribution of this work is the development of a non-iterative technique that essentially solves the inverse of the engine design problem, in a robust and computationally inexpensive manner. That is, instead of configuring a vehicle with an engine and iterating on its design until all system objectives are met, the vehicle itself can now directly interpret the demands placed on it into the best engine design. The techniques introduced here are specific to the types of system models and optimization schemes implemented. Modifications of this methodology have been developed for other types of systems; the results from which indicate similar time savings as well as increased computational robustness. |
