Smart Boosting: A Control Strategy for Optimized Energy Management with Boost Converter in Hybrid Electric Vehicles

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">In hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), optimizing energy management and reducing system losses are critical for enhancing overall efficiency and performance. This paper presents a novel control strategy for the boost converter in hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), aimed at minimizing energy losses and optimizing performance by modulating to a higher boost converter voltage only when necessary. Traditional approaches to boost converter control often lead to unnecessary energy consumption by maintaining higher voltage levels even when not required. In contrast, the proposed strategy dynamically adjusts the converter's operation based on real-time vehicle demands, such as driver input, Engine Start-Stop (ESS) events, Active Electric Motor Damping (AEMD), entry and exit transitions for Engine Fuel Cut-Off (DFCO), Noise-Vibration-Harshness (NVH) events like lash-zone crossing and other specific operational conditions.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">The control strategy leverages predictive algorithms and real-time monitoring to selectively engage the boost converter, ensuring that it only steps up voltage when the system demands it, thus reducing unnecessary power losses. This approach not only enhances the overall efficiency of the powertrain but also improves the vehicle's responsiveness and drivability by delivering optimal power during critical events like sudden acceleration, regenerative braking, and vibration damping through AEMD.</div><div class="htmlview paragraph">Simulation results and real-world testing demonstrate that this adaptive control strategy significantly reduces energy losses, contributing to extended battery life and improved fuel economy in hybrid electric vehicles. The findings suggest that the implementation of this control strategy can play a vital role in advancing the efficiency and performance of future HEV powertrains.</div></div>