Concurrent Optimization of Vehicle Dynamics and Powertrain Operation Using Connectivity and Automation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a hierarchical control framework for connected and automated vehicles that optimizes both vehicle speed and powertrain efficiency in real time, significantly reducing energy consumption and travel delays.

Contribution

A novel two-level control architecture for CAVs that simultaneously optimizes vehicle dynamics and powertrain operation in real time.

Findings

Significant energy savings demonstrated in simulations.

Effective real-time implementation with minimal computational effort.

Improved traffic flow and reduced stop-and-go driving.

Abstract

Connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) provide the most intriguing opportunity to reduce energy consumption and travel delays. In this paper, we propose a two-level control architecture for CAVs to optimize (1) the vehicle's speed profile, aimed at minimizing stop-and-go driving, and (2) the powertrain efficiency of the vehicle for the optimal speed profile derived in (1). The proposed hierarchical control framework can be implemented onboard the vehicle in real time with minimal computational effort. We evaluate the effectiveness of the efficiency of the proposed architecture through simulation in Mcity using a 100% penetration rate of CAVs. The results show that the proposed approach yields significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency.