Master thesis - Power management of battery electric heavy vehicles with distributed propulsion

Job description

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future? If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match. 

Battery electric heavy vehicles (BEVs) usually have limited driving range mainly because of limitations in energy density of battery capacity and charging infrastructure. Moreover, BEVs come in various types, featuring multiple axles and actuator configurations. Hence, a unique propulsion system may not be optimal for all applications and approaches to improve energy efficiency are being explored. One such method is by exploiting the flexibility, cost neutrality, and modularity of electric machines, allowing physical installation on different axles or wheels. Distributed powertrain architecture using optimal control has shown potential in enhancing driving range, vehicle performance features, and safety [1] [3]. In [2], different algorithms to optimally distribute control effort among the actuators instantaneously while minimising power losses were explored conceptually. An energy management strategy for a multi-motor passenger vehicle using mixed integer programming is also explored in [4].

The main goals of this master thesis are the following:

1. Evaluate the energy savings possible for BEVs (4x4, 6x4, etc.) using the distributed propulsion concept with safety constraints and power loss minimisation algorithm.

2. Develop a model framework and algorithm for mixed integer programming using MPC for the optimal control, exploiting the advantage of minimising no load and other losses (rolling resistance, slip losses, etc.).

3. Propose a strategy to control the switching of actuators, namely electric machines or clutches, for vehicle operations and considering real-time application, also taking into account wear and comfort.

4. Present a modular scheme of the algorithm of axle control to aid distributed e-axles concept that could be extended to other vehicle configurations.

The thesis work will include control theory (MPC), vehicle dynamics, and real-time optimisation. The work will be carried out at Volvo Group Trucks Technology. The thesis is recommended for two students with background in vehicle dynamics, control theory, electric machines and good mathematical skills.

Thesis start: Jan 2025.

If you find this proposal interesting, send your application with CV and grades. If you have any questions you are welcome to reach out and ask. 

The last application date is the   5th of November.

Contact persons:
Sachin Janardhanan – Volvo GTT
mail: sachin.janardhanan@volvo.com

Esteban R. Gelso – Volvo GTT
mail: esteban.gelso@volvo.com

Bengt Jacobson - Chalmers
Mail: bengt.jacobson@chalmers.se
(Academic supervisor)

1] Janardhanan S., Laine L., Jonasson M., and Jacobson B., and Alaküla M., “Concept design of electric cruise and startability axles for long haul heavy vehicles to maximise driving range”, Vehicle Propulsion and Power Conference, October 2021.

[2] Janardhanan S, “On power loss minimisation for heavy vehicles with axle-wise and modular electrical propulsion and friction braking”, Licentiate thesis, Feb 2023.

[3] Persson.J, Åkesson.J, “On torque vectoring to improve steering predictability while minimising power loss in heavy electric vehicles using model predictive control”, Master Thesis, Chalmers University of Technology, June 2023.

[4] A. Ganesan, N. Murgovski, D. Yang and S. Gros, "Real-Time Mixed-Integer Energy Management Strategy for Multi-Motor Electric Vehicles," 2023 IEEE Transportation Electrification Conference & Expo (ITEC), Detroit, MI, USA, 2023, pp. 1-6, doi:
10.1109/ITEC55900.2023.10186957.

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Who we are and what we believe in 
Our focus on Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity allows each of us the opportunity to bring our full authentic self to work and thrive by providing a safe and supportive environment, free of harassment and discrimination. We are committed to removing the barriers to entry, which is why we ask that even if you feel you may not meet every qualification on the job description, please apply and let us decide.

 

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group . Every day, across the globe, our trucks, buses, engines, construction equipment, financial services, and solutions make modern life possible. We are almost 100,000 people empowered to shape the future landscape of efficient, safe and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents with sharp minds and passion across the group’s leading brands and entities. 

 

Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.

Job Category:  Engineering

Organization:  Group Trucks Technology

Travel Required:  No Travel Required

Requisition ID:  14842