Modeling, Simulation and Design Optimization of a Series Hydraulic Hybrid Vehicle

Crude oil resources in the world continue to diminish; automobile, agricultural machinery and construction machinery manufacturing companies are placing more emphasis on energy efficient series hydraulic hybrid systems which can replace their conventional transmission systems. Series hydraulic hybrid system is a mechatronics system with two source of power (that includes prime mover and hydro-pneumatic accumulator) which drives the vehicle. Even though, it has been proven as an energy efficient system, sizing of the components or sub-system for automobiles has got a major influence on energy efficiency of vehicle. In this paper, a power bond graph approach is used to model the dynamics of series hydraulic hybrid system and simulation results elucidate various modes of operations. It also shows the dynamic response of hydro-pneumatic accumulator, prime-mover and system output speed. Further, design optimization of system is carried out to optimize the physical /process parameters for the maximum system's output energy that, leads to increase in energy efficiency and environmental friendly vehicle. © (2014) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.