Tuesday, January 31, 2023

Simulative investigation of various electrified commercial vehicle powertrain concepts with a focus on gearbox efficiency

Topic and Goal of the Thesis

In a research project, an innovative electric axle for heavy commercial vehicles is being developed. For this purpose, several purpose design powertrain topologies for the e-axle were developed and have to be evaluated before the powertrain concept is finalised.

The goal of the thesis is a systematic evaluation of powertrain concepts with a focus on gearbox efficiency. After selecting appropriate e-machine(s) to cover the vehicle's longitudinal dynamics requirements for each given concept, the required gear ratios are determined and other gearbox components are selected. After that, simulation models are built in order to calculate gear losses. The simulation results are evaluated as part of the efficiency estimation and serve as the basis for the final selection of the powertrain topology.

Working Points

• Determination of relevant longitudinal dynamic requirements for an e-axle for a truck (e.g. VECTO-cycles)
• Pre-dimensioning of the gearboxes for given powertrain concepts
• Transferring the data into simulation models followed by efficiency evaluation

Requirements

• Interest in the development and electrification of commercial vehicles, reliability, commitment and enjoyment of working independently
• Experience in MATLAB

Note: Please attach brief resume and grade summary.