Browse Topic: Power and Propulsion

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Experimental Study on Macroscopic Characteristics of Ammonia Spray under Flash Boiling and Non-Flash Boiling Conditions with Large-Diameter single-hole Nozzles2026-01-0339To be published on 04/07/2026
Ammonia is regarded as a potential alternative fuel, and its spray characteristics are crucial for efficient combustion in engines. For large-bore engines suitable for heavy-duty vehicles or ships, the adoption of large-diameter nozzles is expected to ensure an appropriate fuel flow rate while improving fuel-air mixing efficiency, thereby enhancing in-cylinder combustion performance. This paper conducted an experimental study on the characteristics of liquid ammonia sprays under wide thermodynamic conditions, a wide range of injection pressures, and a wide range of nozzle diameters. The study found that at room temperature, as the ambient pressure increases from 0.1 MPa to 4 MPa, the development of spray penetration slows down. However, at 0.05 MPa, the radial expansion of the near-field spray is greater, and the penetration is slightly behind that at 0.1 MPa. The liquid penetration increases with the increase in ambient temperature. This was because the increase in temperature reduced
Liu, Yi, Zhong, Jie, Hu, Yuchen, Zhu, Wuzhe, yunliang, Qi, QINGCHU, CHEN, Wang, Zhi
Research on Reliability Test Methods for Electric Drive Axle Differentials2026-01-0007To be published on 04/07/2026
With the rapid socio-economic development, global issues such as the energy crisis and environmental pollution have become increasingly severe. Electric vehicles have garnered growing attention due to their environmental friendliness, simple structure, and high energy efficiency. Electric drive technology is regarded as the most ideal universal driving solution for pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles. The electric drive axle, as a new type of integrated mechatronic transmission system, is being increasingly adopted owing to its advantages such as high drive efficiency, flexible spatial arrangement, and facilitation of digital and automated chassis control. This study focuses on reliability testing methods for the differential in electric drive axles, mainly including the extraction of reliability test conditions and feasibility analysis of the test scheme. The main research contents are as follows: First, based on specific parameters of an electric
Zheng, Hongyu, Li, Ziyu, Wang, Dajiang, tian, kai
A Proposed Methodology for Human Operator Modeling and Development of a Virtual Operator Model for Control of a Simulated Compact Track Loader2026-01-0146To be published on 04/07/2026
A methodology for performing Human Operator Modeling (HOM) using a Caterpillar Model 299D3 XE Compact Track Loader (CTL) is presented. The proposed method uses task analysis techniques to decompose a material excavation and moving task into smaller, individual tasks presented in a task list. A method for verifying and refining the task list is presented, along with a procedure for identifying relevant human operator sensory information and analyzing human decision making in the context of CTL operation. This methodology is then partially verified through the analysis of a non-expert human operator in Vortex Studio, a realistic construction equipment simulator. A modified test course is executed by a non-expert human operator in the simulation environment, and the recorded data is used to create a quantitative Human Operator Model. From this, a Virtual Operator Model (VOM) feedback controller simulating the performance of the human operator is developed. The VOM is implemented using a
Wang, Orson R., Norris, William R., Patterson, Albert E., Soylemezoglu, Ahmet, Nottage, Dustin S.
A decision-making framework for field manufacturability of vehicle parts in expeditionary environments2026-01-0143To be published on 04/07/2026
Expeditionary environments (such as remote exploration missions, forward military operations, and disaster response zones) demand adaptive manufacturing solutions to support vehicle sustainment in the absence of traditional supply chains. This work introduces a conceptual mathematical framework for modeling the constraints and trade-offs inherent to expeditionary manufacturing, with a focus on vehicle repair and spare parts fabrication using low-energy and simple automated systems including desktop-scale 3D printers and CNC machines. The model integrates key variables such as energy availability, material transport cost, fabrication time, and environmental limitations to support rapid decision-making on part manufacturability and in-field feasibility. A case study involving the on-demand production of some common wear and failure parts on a vehicle, including suspension components and the water pump, is used to demonstrate how this framework can guide the selection of suitable
Mollan, Calahan, Pandey, Vijitashwa, Patterson, Albert E.
Thermal Management of Gasoline Fuel Tanks2026-01-0114To be published on 04/07/2026
This study presents a fully integrated, vehicle-level thermal management model for gasoline fuel tanks, designed to predict transient fuel temperatures, tank wall heating, and vapor generation under real-world driving conditions. The model simulates coupled thermal contributions from exhaust radiation, transient underbody airflow, conductive heat transfer, in-tank pump heating, and dynamic changes in fuel composition and level. Validation against on-road measurements shows strong agreement for fuel temperature and vapor flow profiles. Results confirm that exhaust radiative heating is the dominant thermal load, particularly during the post-shutdown heat soak period. A well-designed heat shield reduced peak tank wall temperature by approximately 27 °C, significantly lowering fuel heating and evaporation. Parametric analysis indicates that while fuel Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) and tank material influence evaporation, their effect is secondary to external heat mitigation. While this model
El-Sharkawy, Alaa, Asar, Mona, Taha, Nahla, Sheta, Mai
Residual “Non-Zero” Speedometer Readings In Crash Tests Using a HYGE Crash Simulation System2026-01-0537To be published on 04/07/2026
The trend among analog speedometer and tachometer instruments in recent decades has been toward stepper motor drives. If power is interrupted during a crash, such gauges often do not return to a zero reading. Speedometers and tachometers displaying residual readings after a crash have been observed with increasing frequency in recent years. In conducting a crash reconstruction, a question often arises as to whether such a residual reading corresponds to the indicated vehicle speed at the time of impact in the crash. Prior publications in this area have included a variety of crash tests under a wide range of relatively uncontrolled conditions. The present investigation evaluated a total of nine instrument clusters with a range of static torque required to move the needles when unpowered. The clusters were mounted on a HYGE crash simulation sled and subjected to consistent impulses at orientations representing frontal, rear, left and right lateral, and left and right oblique impacts
Barnes, Daniel, Duran, Amanda, Walker, James, Kent, Steven, Osterhout, Aaron, Clayton, Aidan
Experimental Validation of a Multi-Row Tapered Roller Bearing Analytical Model for Relating Preload to Frequency Response Characteristics2026-01-0008To be published on 04/07/2026
Roller bearings are used in many rotating power transmission systems in the automotive industry. During the assembly process of the power transmission system, some types of roller bearings (e.g., tapered roller bearings) require a compressive preload force. Those bearings' rolling resistance and lifespan strongly depend on the preload set during the installation process. Therefore, accurate setting of the preload can improve bearing efficiency, increase bearing lifespan and reduce maintenance costs over the life of the vehicle. A new method for bearing preload measurement has shown potential for both high accuracy and fast cycle time using the frequency response characteristics of the power transmission system. An open problem is experimental validation of the multi-row tapered roller bearing analytical model. After validation, the analytical model can be used to predict the assembled system damped natural frequency for a desired bearing preload. This work presents the experimental
Gruzwalski, David, Mynderse, James
Climate Heat Recovery Energy Study in Electric Vehicles2026-01-0129To be published on 04/07/2026
Climate control systems in Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) rely on electrical energy to provide cabin heating. In winter conditions, the absence of waste heat from internal combustion engines necessitates increased energy consumption for thermal comfort, which directly impacts vehicle range. Conventional HVAC systems typically operate with a mixture of cold ambient air and recirculated cabin air. However, the proportion of recirculated air is limited due to windshield fogging risks, constraining energy-saving potential. To address this, MAHLE has developed modular heat recovery technologies that utilize the thermal energy of exhaust cabin air, that would normally leave the passenger compartment through vehicle body vents, to precondition incoming fresh air, thereby reducing the heating load. These solutions are engineered for scalable integration into existing HVAC architectures, allowing
Wolfe, Edward, Wochele, Kerstin, Reid, Bailey
A Quantitative Approach for Mapping and Assessing Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration Events in Diesel Engines2026-01-0377To be published on 04/07/2026
Regeneration of diesel particulate filters (DPFs) is crucial for maintaining the performance of diesel engines and minimizing harmful particulate matter (PM) emissions from exhaust. However, conventional regeneration strategies often suffer from incomplete soot removal and inefficient monitoring. These issues lead to increased exhaust back pressure, reducing engine efficiency, and potentially damaging the particulate filter. In this paper, a new approach is proposed for mapping and quantifying the real-world DPF regeneration process for diesel engines complying with the stringent emission standards. We introduce a novel metric, the differential pressure drop percentage (DPDP), to detect regeneration events and quantify soot burn quality. The proposed method utilizes real-time sensor data obtained through the vehicle’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system. The algorithm processes sensor data and robustly maps the regeneration quality. The performance of regeneration event detection and
Bagga, Harleen Kaur, Nagare, Mukund B., Patil, Bhushan D., Ravishankar, Hariharan, Melapudi, Vikram, Patil, Abhijit
Experimental Evaluation of an Electrically Heated Urea Vapor Module (UVM) for Improved SCR System Performance under Transient and Off-Road Operating Conditions2026-01-0359To be published on 04/07/2026
This paper presents an experimental study on an electrically heated Urea Vapor Module (UVM) designed to enhance the low-temperature performance of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. The UVM integrates a resistive heating element (up to 4.5 kW) wound around the mixing pipe to accelerate urea-water solution (UWS) vaporization, enable early ammonia (NH₃) availability, and minimize deposit formation under critical low-load conditions. Testing was performed on an FPT XC13 engine equipped with an alpha1 aftertreatment system (ATS). Results demonstrate that the heated UVM reduces SCR light-off temperature by ~20 °C, significantly improves DeNOx efficiency below 210 °C, and prevents deposit accumulation when pipe surface temperatures exceed 200 °C. These findings confirm that localized electrical heating of the UVM is a promising approach to meet stringent future NOx regulations such as Euro VII and California 2027.
costa, Simone, schlegel, Reto, priftis, Adm Konstantinos, giovenzana, Luca, Dutto, Andrea
Experimental investigation wear of the power cell assembly of an internal combustion engine operated with ethanol through vibration and oil analysis2026-01-0352To be published on 04/07/2026
The durability test is an experimental test widely used in the automotive industry to verify the ability of an engine to withstand all operating conditions throughout its useful life. The test is performed on a dynamometric bench that subjects the engine to specific operating cycles. The objective of this study was to monitoring the level of wear of the power cell assembly and the performance of the engine operated with ethanol during the durability test. Wear monitoring was performed through the application of vibration analysis and lubricating oil analysis techniques. The results showed that the level of wear and performance of the engine after the durability test were considered satisfactory. Compared to durability tests previously conducted without monitoring, the analysis of wear metals in the lubricating oil and oil properties, combined with vibration analysis throughout the durability test, allowed for safe testing with a shorter total test time, optimized technical downtime and
Santana, Claudio Marcio
Electrified Propulsion System Balancing for Light Duty Full Size Truck and Sport Utility Vehicles: A 2026 North American Market Perspective2026-01-0412To be published on 04/07/2026
Achieving the stringent EPA CAFE 2032 standards for light-duty full-size trucks and SUVs in North American poses significant challenges. While Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) offer a clear path to zero tailpipe emissions, their widespread adoption in this segment faces hurdles including range anxiety, payload/towing capabilities, and traditional truck/SUV use cases. This paper investigates a balanced approach, focusing on optimizing propulsion system design with appropriate hardware content, can effectively meet future fuel economy and emissions standards. This investigation examines advanced BEVs and hybrid electric vehicle architectures, including full hybrids (HEVs), and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) tailored for full-size trucks and SUVs. Considerations include the optimal sizing of internal combustion engines, electric motors, and battery packs to deliver robust performance while maximizing energy efficiency. This paper analyzes the integration of technologies such as electrified
Babcock, Dillon, Robinette, Darrell
The Impact of Mid-level Ethanol Blends on Reliability, Performance and Emissions in Gasoline engine2026-01-0302To be published on 04/07/2026
To reduce CO₂ emissions from automobiles, it is essential to enhance system efficiency through the electrification of vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines (ICEs), such as hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), as well as through improvements in ICE thermal efficiency. Furthermore, biofuels and synthetic fuels are gaining attention as promising options for reducing CO₂ emissions, including from existing vehicles. Among these alternative fuels, ethanol - a bio-derived fuel - is already utilized in varying concentrations across many countries, and its further application is anticipated. While expanding the fleet of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) capable of operating on high ethanol blends is one approach, increasing the ethanol content in conventional gasoline fuels, which are more widely used, is considered to have a greater impact on CO₂ reduction. A key issue is the impact and adaptability of existing vehicles when ethanol concentrations
Matsubara, Naoyoshi, Sugata, Kenji, Koyama, Takashi, Ochi, Yuta, Aoki, Mizuki, Hashima, Takashi, Kodama, Kohei, Tomoda, Keiju, Kojima, Masakiyo
Passive Soot Regeneration Observations on a GPF-equipped vehicle for PM exhaust emission control.2026-01-0366To be published on 04/07/2026
The gasoline particulate filter (GPF) will be a common technology adopted by EPA Tier4 emission compliant vehicles, starting as early as model year 2017 in North America. For those Tier-4 compliant gasoline-powered powertrains, their GPF solutions will require that the captured soot can be safely removed through passive oxidation. This clean-out process is driven by occasional fuel-cut events, such as engine motoring, which would provide an excess of oxygen in the exhaust gas flow to the hot, soot-loaded GPF. Here, a study has been conducted where a modern vehicle with a 3L engine displacement was upfitted with appropriately sized GPFs for soot capture in the dual-bank exhaust line. These GPFs were weighed to track their soot-load trends between representative real-world driving routes, where sensor data and ECU parameters were recorded. Thus, characterization of the passive soot regeneration process in the GPF was linked to the preceding exposure of gaseous flow temperatures, oxygen
Craig, Angus, Warkins, Jason
Advancing Electric Drive Unit Design with Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH).2026-01-0413To be published on 04/07/2026
The performance of Electric Drive Units (EDUs) in electrified powertrains heavily depends on efficient thermal and lubrication management. Accurate assessment of lubrication flow, particularly in terms of wettability and churning losses, is essential for optimizing EDU performance across various driving conditions. This paper presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of lubrication flow behavior within an EDU using an advanced Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method. The mesh-free SPH approach provides significant advantages in modeling intricate oil dynamics, such as oil splashing, and the behavior of oil in contact with rotating components. The primary focus of this study is to investigate the phenomena of splashing, wettability, and churning losses under various operating conditions within the gearbox environment. Key flow characteristics such as oil distribution, particle trajectories, torque resistance due to fluid drag, and oil volume fraction are analyzed under
Chintala, Paramesh, Inada, Jorge, Flores Solano, Cesar Alfonso, Gingade, Suresh
A Comparative Study of Evaluation Indicators in Spark Plug Electrode Erosion Resistance Using High Energy Ignition2026-01-0291To be published on 04/07/2026
Lean combustion is one of the effective methods to improve the efficiency of engine. High energy ignition can significantly enhance the stability of lean combustion, attracting widespread attention in engine applications, particularly in GDI engines. However, higher ignition energy accelerates the erosion rate of spark plug electrodes, thereby shortening their lifespan. Currently, there is no established quantitative evaluation method for assessing the erosion resistance of spark plug electrodes with a high energy ignition system. Thus, developing a reliable and rapid testing method to evaluate the erosion resistance of spark plug electrode materials is crucial and urgent. Such a method would facilitate the selection of superior electrode materials, ultimately improving the erosion resistance of spark plugs and extending their lifespan. This study developed an innovative erosion testing system for spark plug center electrode materials based on a self-made high energy ignition device
Zhang, Jianqi, Sun, Nan, Miao, Xinke, Li, Yang, Zhou, Chuan, Deng, Jun, Li, Liguang
Investigation of In-Cylinder Cycle-to-Cycle Variation Using PIV, LIF and RANS Simulation2026-01-0299To be published on 04/07/2026
To elucidate the cycle-to-cycle variations (CCV) in gas flow and combustion within gasoline engine cylinders, simultaneous two-section PIV and LIF measurements were performed using an optical engine, coupled with RANS simulations. The results revealed the following: The variation in the equivalence ratio per cycle has little effect on initial combustion but does influence IMEP. Evaluating the laminar combustion velocity (SL) and turbulent combustion velocity (ST) as factors determining initial combustion revealed almost no correlation with SL, while moderate correlations were observed between ST and CA10. The position of the tumble vortex center at ignition timing was found to be critical; the vortex center position most favorable for advancing combustion timing was located to the right and below the spark plug. Under nitrogen-enriched conditions with a dilution ratio of approximately 40%, cycle fluctuations increased. Concentration characteristics of THC and CO, obtained from high
Hokimoto, Satoshi, Moriyoshi, Yasuo, Kuboyama, Tatsuya
Effect of renewable fuel blends on particulate emissions in warm-up conditions in a GDI engine2026-01-0304To be published on 04/07/2026
Renewable gasoline offers significant benefits in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this study, five gasolines with different renewable hydrocarbon classes and varying distillation curves were taken to investigate their effect on particle number (PN) emissions in a spark-ignition GDI engine at 10 bar indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and 2000 rpm. The engine coolant temperature was varied from 90°C to 35°C to investigate the effect of fuel evaporation on soot formation. Injectors with various spray plume targets and start of injection (SOI) timing (300° and 260° bTDC) were used to assess how different gasolines affect engine performance and to determine engine calibration requirements. A simplified transient cycle examines how engine motoring influences PN emissions for test gasolines. A high-speed camera and endoscope were used to identify the sources of soot during fuel combustion. Simulations were done to assess the quality of fuel-air mixing in support of the
Muniappan, Krishnamoorthi, Dahlander, Petter, Helmantel, Ayolt, Alemahdi, Nika, Lehto, Kalle
CFD-Guided DoE-ML Optimization Methods in a Heavy-Duty Hydrogen Engine2026-01-0326To be published on 04/07/2026
This study introduces a CFD-guided Design of Experiments (DoE) and Machine Learning (ML) framework for the co-optimization of piston and pre-chamber geometries in a passive pre-chamber heavy-duty hydrogen engine operating at medium and low loads. Starting from a reference configuration—an omega-type piston and a methane-optimized pre-chamber—the design space was parameterized using seven geometric variables. A Sobol sequence was employed to generate 96 randomized design variants in the DoE, each evaluated through high-fidelity 3D-CFD simulations to capture key combustion and performance metrics. The resulting dataset served as the foundation for developing and evaluating several ML regression models. A rigorous ML workflow was adopted, featuring 5-fold cross-validation and hyperparameter tuning via Bayesian optimization to ensure generalization and robustness. Model selection was based on multi-metric performance criteria including prediction accuracy, error stability, and sensitivity
Menaca, Rafael, Shakeel, Mohammad Raghib, Liu, Xinlei, Mohan, Balaji, AlRamadan, Abdullah, Cenker, Emre, Silva, Mickael, Zhang, Anqi, Pei, Yuanjiang, Im, Hong
Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition (RCCI) Combustion Engine Characteristics Fuelled with Diesel/Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Diesel/Methanol Fuel Pairs2026-01-0319To be published on 04/07/2026
Ultra-low oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) characteristics of reactivity controlled compression ignition (RCCI) combustion has motivated the researchers to explore more so that this can be implemented using a long range of alternative fuels. In this study, a comparative analysis of combustion, performance, and emission characteristics of RCCI combustion fuelled with diesel/compressed natural gas (CNG) and diesel/methanol fuel pairs have been carried out with respect to baseline compression ignition (CI) combustion. All experiments were performed in a constant speed engine at four different engine loads. The RCCI combustion experiments were performed at a constant premixed ratio (rp) of 0.50 and 15% exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The results exhibited a significant reduction in oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions and relatively smoother RCCI combustion compared to baseline CI combustion. RCCI mode combustion resulted in relatively superior engine performance
Saikia, Bhargav, Kant, Akshay, Gupta, Abhishek, Singh, Akhilendra Pratap
Numerical Study of Gasoline Direct Injection Sprays across Different Operating Conditions using a Machine-Learning-Based Rate of Injection2026-01-0338To be published on 04/07/2026
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) is a key technology for increasing engine efficiency and reducing criteria pollutants, often in combination with boosted operation and engine downsizing. The development of advanced GDI injection systems is increasingly focused on refining the in-cylinder spray process, encompassing spray formation, mixing, and combustion, to achieve both homogeneous and stratified combustion. Given the broad spectrum of operating conditions, from cold-start to early and late injections at different engine loads, accurately modeling the spray formation and its evolution presents significant challenges. This study reports on a computational fluid dynamics investigation of spray morphology across different injection pressures under both cold-start and late-injection conditions. Due to a lack of information regarding the rate of injection (ROI) for the targeted injectors, a recently developed machine-learning-based model is used to extract the ROI from optical data of
Lien, Hao-Pin (Paul), Torelli, Roberto, Zhao, Le, Park, Ji-Woong, Zhang, Anqi, Pei, Yuanjiang, Hwang, Joonsik, Lee, Kyungwon
Analyzing Fastened Joints in Hydraulic Dampers using Simulation and Experimental Methods2026-01-0585To be published on 04/07/2026
The main purpose of this study is to develop and validate an accurate calculation model for an unorthodox hydraulic damper piston joint, enabling reliable torque specification and clamp behavior without full prototype iteration. The joint features a bolted interface with a laminated shim stack of many thin disks with varying outer diameters. Analysis of such unorthodox joints are uncommon in literature, making the effects of load distribution truncation in the member stack due to varying outer diameters and surface contact effects between thin members during compression and torquing difficult to quantify. The model discussed in this paper is based on frustum load distribution combined with annular-plate bending and elastic-foundation effects to capture the effects of washer cupping. Concrete outputs of the calculator include member load distribution, bolt and member stiffnesses, torque-to-preload relationships, including friction factors and a variable effective-bearing-diameter, and
Dresen, Gabriel S., Vollmar, Race, Roy Chowdhury, Sourav
Guidelines for Interior Material Selection to Enhance Thermal Safety in Electric Vehicles2026-01-0249To be published on 04/07/2026
Due to the rapid advancement of electric vehicles, the role of material selection has become very critical for ensuring passenger safety, particularly in mitigating risks associated with Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery thermal runaway. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric vehicles require interior materials that provide superior fire resistance, thermal insulation, and minimal smoke emission to protect vehicle occupants in extreme thermal events. This paper examines the importance of selecting fire-resistant materials, thermally stable polymers, and low-toxicity materials that can slow fire propagation, reduce interior temperatures, and reduce hazardous gas emissions. Through the integrating of materials with high thermal stability, self-extinguishing properties, and heat-reflective coatings, manufacturers can enhance vehicle interior safety, improve passenger protection, and optimize energy efficiency.
El-Sharkawy, Alaa, Taha, Nahla, Asar, Mona, Sheta, Mai
Improving Winter Driving Range of EVs with a Novel Desiccant Device: Ceramic Humidity Regulator (CHR)2026-01-0117To be published on 04/07/2026
With Rapid growth of Electric Vehicles (EVs) in the market, challenges such as driving range, charging infrastructure, and reducing charging time needs to be addressed. Unlike traditional Internal combustion vehicles, EVs have limited heating sources and primarily uses electricity from the running battery, which reduces driving range. Additionally, during winter operation, it is necessary to prevent window fogging to ensure better visibility, which requires introducing cold outside air into the cabin. This significantly increases the energy consumption for heating and the driving range can be reduced to half of the normal range. This study introduces the Ceramic Humidity Regulator (CHR), a compact and energy-efficient device developed to address driving range improvement. The CHR uses a desiccant system to dehumidify the cabin, which can prevent window fogging without introducing cold outside air, thereby reducing heating energy consumption. CHR is based on desiccant dehumidification
Sakai, Naoki, Takahiko, Nakatani, Shinoda, Narimasa, Ihara, Yukio, Wakida, Norihiro, Kato, Kyohei, Anoop, Reghunathan-Nair
Simulation of Conjugate Heat Transfer using the Lattice Boltzmann Method2026-01-0135To be published on 04/07/2026
Flow simulation with conjugate heat transfer, which involves fluid flow, conduction, and radiation in solid components, is a critical capability that helps engineers design and evaluate cooling systems for heat-generating components such as brakes, powertrains, batteries, and power electronics for both gasoline and electric vehicles. For this study, we utilize PowerFLOW™, featuring its novel native thermal solver, which models both fluid and solid domains within a single model. For the flow domain, we use the Lattice Boltzmann Method with VLES turbulence modeling based on the RNG k-epsilon method. And for the solid domain, the finite volume method with second-order accuracy for thermal conduction and a surface-to-surface radiation for the surfaces. This approach not only leads to a more integrated and streamlined workflow but also enables an accurate modeling of conduction and radiation. In this study, we demonstrate the accuracy of the conjugate heat transfer simulation methodology
Mukutmoni, Devadatta, Shock, Richard, Li, Han, Wanderer, John
Adaptive Torque Vector Control for Distributed Drive Intelligent Electric Vehicles Using Model and Data Driven Approaches2026-01-0628To be published on 04/07/2026
To effectively improve the performance of chassis control of distributed drive intelligent electric vehicles (EVs) under difference road conditions, especially in combing road information and chassis control for improving road handling and ride comfort, is a challenging task for the distributed drive intelligent EVs. Simultaneously, inaccurate chassis control and uncertainty with system input, are always existing, e.g., varying road input or control parameters. Due to the higher fatality rate caused by variable factors, how to precisely chose and enforce the reasonable chassis control strategy of distributed drive intelligent EVs become a hot topic in both academia and industry. To issue the above mentioned, an adaptive torque vector hierarchical controller based on road roughness and adhesion is proposed, which optimizes the comprehensive performance of vehicle chassis. First, combined with the characteristic of the unbalance dynamic force caused by the air gap between the stator and
Wang, Zhenfeng, Zhao, Gaoming, Zhang, Zhijie
Lateral stability and energy-saving integrated control of distributed drive vehicles with four wheel hub motors2026-01-0635To be published on 04/07/2026
Abstract: In order to improve the lateral stability and energy optimization of four-wheel hub motor distributed drive vehicles under complex road conditions, a layered control strategy for yaw stability is proposed. The upper controller is designed based on the sliding mode control principle to create a yaw moment controller, establishing both a two-degree-of-freedom model and a seven-degree-of-freedom model for the vehicle, tracking the desired yaw rate, desired center of mass side slip angle, actual yaw rate, and actual center of mass side slip angle to obtain the corresponding additional yaw moment. Moreover, the state of the vehicle is analyzed using the phase plane method of the center of mass side slip angle and yaw rate, and the total additional yaw moment for the vehicle is computed based on weighted calculations according to the state. Additionally, an unscented Kalman filter observer is established to enhance the tracking accuracy of the actual yaw rate and actual center of
shi, cheng'ao, liu, bingsen, Zou, Xiaojun, Wang, Tao, Zhang, Ming
Embedded Real-Time Control of a Distributed Trailer Propulsion System with Regenerative Braking for Net Neutral Load Towing2026-01-0065To be published on 04/07/2026
Towing significantly degrades vehicle efficiency, reducing battery-electric vehicle (BEV) range by up to 50% and increasing internal-combustion engine (ICE) fuel consumption by ~30%. To address this challenge, this paper presents a real-time embedded control architecture for a distributed trailer propulsion system that actively regulates drawbar force to achieve net neutral load towing while enabling regenerative braking. Unlike prior e-trailer concepts, this platform demonstrates a cost-effective, fully networked, model-based control implementation using commercial off-the-shelf components. The control system integrates dual Raspberry Pi controllers running ROS 2: one samples a hitch-mounted load cell at 100 Hz and the other processes OBD-II/CAN messages. Controllers designed in MATLAB/Simulink are deployed to a 5 kWh LiFePO₄ pack and a 5 kW traction motor, utilising embedded Linux for real-time scheduling and onboard data logging. Two operating modes are implemented: (i) PI
Joshi, Gaurav, Adelman, Ian, Liu, Jun, Donnaway, Ruthie
Challenges of Mixture Formation in Methanol Port Fuel Injection Engines2026-01-0337To be published on 04/07/2026
Port fuel injection (PFI) is an attractive strategy for methanol adoption in both spark-ignition and dual-fuel compression-ignition engines due to its lower cost and simpler hardware compared to direct injection. However, methanol PFI mixture formation can be challenging due to methanol’s high heat of vaporization, low volatility at cold conditions and high tendency to wall wetting. Understanding and addressing these challenges is critical to ensure robust engine operation. In this study, the effects of injector geometry, coolant temperature, intake temperature and fueling rate on mixture formation of methanol PFI have been investigated for anhydrous methanol and for a blend of 90%vol methanol plus 10%vol water in an optical engine. Mie scattering and infrared imaging were applied to assess the liquid and vapor methanol distribution in the cylinder. For a high-flow injector specifically designed for methanol, significant amounts of liquid were detected in the cylinder at all conditions
Lee, Sanguk, Narayanan, Abhinandhan
New Inverter Switching Control Method to Enhance Sound Quality for Electric Vehicles2026-01-0437To be published on 04/07/2026
Conventional inverter control uses a fixed switching frequency, which leads to a high-pitched switching noise in electric vehicles (EVs) that does not vary with vehicle speed. Although EVs are generally much quieter than traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, some EV owners complain about the lack of dynamic driving sound feedback. A new patented technology has been developed to enhance EV sound quality by dynamically controlling the inverter switching frequencies. This technology generates dynamic propulsion sound with new "switching order" features at multiple harmonics, with the pitch proportional to vehicle speed. A fixed pulse ratio between the switching frequency and the electric motor RPM is implemented to control the switching order. This reduces switching losses during low-speed operation and provides boosted acoustic feedback to the driver during acceleration, which enhances driving experience during sports driving. Furthermore, a special "EV shifting" sound
He, Song, Gagas, Brent, Welchko, Brian, Ball, Kerrie, Gong, Cheng
Design and Evaluation of a Deep Neural Network Model for Prediction of Diesel Equilibrium Combustion Products and Characteristics2026-01-0293To be published on 04/07/2026
Accurate prediction of equilibrium combustion products and thermodynamic properties is essential for optimizing engine performance, enhancing combustion efficiency, and reducing emissions in diesel-powered systems. Traditional methods for combustion modeling often involve solving complex chemical equilibrium equations or thermodynamic relations, which could be computationally expensive and time-consuming. In this study, we present a data-driven approach using a deep neural network (DNN) model to predict the equilibrium combustion products and key thermodynamic characteristics of diesel under varying thermodynamic conditions. The proposed DNN model is trained on a comprehensive dataset generated from equilibrium calculations. The inputs include pressure, temperature, and equivalence ratio, covering a relatively wide range to encompass diesel equilibrium combustion under various conditions. Outputs are equilibrium combustion products and thermodynamic properties, including enthalpy
Ji, Huangchang, Wang, Kai, Guo, Zhefeng, Han, Yang, Lee, Timothy
AI model creation and System Verification of “Telemotion” Infrastructure-Cooperative Autonomous Driving System using Digital Twin2026-01-0255To be published on 04/07/2026
The concept of the vehicle has changed as a result of many innovations over the last decade in the fields of connected, autonomous/automated, shared, and electric (CASE) technologies. At the same time, labor shortages in Japan are becoming more serious due to a decline in the working population. To help resolve these issues, a remote-controlled autonomous vehicle driving system called Telemotion has been developed that automates the movement of vehicles in production plants. Telemotion is an autonomous driving and transportation system in which the recognition, judgment, and operation functions of driving are handled by a control system outside the vehicle that communicates wirelessly with the vehicle. This system utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies to realize safe unmanned autonomous driving, and is already in operation in production plants. Currently, efforts are under way to build a digital twin environment and conduct AI learning using computer
Hatano, Yasuyoshi, Iwazaki, Noritsugu, Nagafuchi, Yuhei, Iwahori, Kento, Tanaka, Atsushi, Uezu, Satoru, Kanou, Takeshi, INOUE, Go, Okamoto, Yuki, Oka, Yuhei, Kakuma, Daisuke, Chiba, Hiroya, Egashira, Kazuki, Ishikuro, Megumi, Sawano, Takuro
Methods of Highly Repeatable Lubricant Testing for Electric Vehicles: Universal Motor Control and Statistical Test-Variation Analysis2026-01-0421To be published on 04/07/2026
This paper describes a systematic approach to evaluate lubricants for hybrid and electric vehicles (xEVs) that can detect impacts on efficiency as low as 0.1 percentage points. Two testing methods were developed to evaluate lubricants' efficiency effects: (1) on a complete vehicle (using the manufacturer's hardware and motor control) and (2) on a standalone drive unit (using custom power electronics and control). A Monte Carlo simulation was used to analyze the resulting data to determine the detection limits of the vehicle test method. To evaluate the effectiveness of the test stands and the data-analysis method, a Tesla Model 3 electric drive unit and a Chevrolet Bolt battery electric vehicle (BEV) were characterized for system efficiency. For the Bolt mounted on a hub driven chassis dynamometer, this method is capable of detecting a change in the drive unit's electromechanical efficiency between baseline and candidate fluids of <0.4 percentage point (pp) with 95% confidence at most
Luo, Yilun, Gross, Michael, Kostan, Travis
1D System Evaluations for Efficiency Trade-offs for a Heavy-Duty H2ICE Concept2026-01-0274To be published on 04/07/2026
Lean H2 combustion strategies have shown promising gross thermal efficiency and ultra-low engine-out NOx emissions for H2-fuel based internal combustion engine (H2ICE) systems in heavy-duty (HD) transport. Implementing lean combustion strategies require excessive air flow demand that further increases with the engine load increase. To meet such air flow demands efficiently across a wide engine operating region, a detailed system optimization is warranted including next-generation turbocharging systems. In this 1D system analysis campaign, a detailed study of various air-system configurations was conducted for a modified HD, direct-injection (DI), H2ICE concept based-off a Cummins heavy-duty 15L engine. The concept engine configuration had a geometric compression ratio of 10.4 and possessed no external exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). First, a calibrated 1D engine model representing the H2ICE concept was developed. Using the 1D model, a detailed system-level analysis was conducted at
Kumar, Praveen, Sari, Rafael, Merritt, Brock, Popuri, Sriram
Design and validation of modern hydrogen and natural gas containers for on board vehicle storage2026-01-0188To be published on 04/07/2026
Ensuring the operational safety of gaseous fuel containers for hydrogen and natural gas vehicles requires robust and validated protective devices capable of responding reliably under diverse operating and accident scenarios. This paper presents the design considerations, test methodology, and validation outcomes for safety subsystems integrated into modern compressed gas storage vessels, with emphasis on pressure relief devices (PRDs), thermal protection systems, and valve assemblies. Drawing on experimental insights from previous studies of hydrogen and natural gas fueling systems and fire-resistance assessments, the work defines safety-critical conditions such as rapid temperature rise during bonfire exposure, localized flame impingement, over-pressurization from fast filling, and mixed-gas operation. A comprehensive validation protocol was established, combining standardized regulatory tests with additional stress profiles replicating service-realistic environments. These included
Flekiewicz, Marek, Flekiewicz, Wojciech
Technical Outlook on the Potential of HVO and Biodiesel Blends for Cleaner Combustion2026-01-0316To be published on 04/07/2026
The increasing need to decarbonize the transport sector is accelerating the adoption of renewable fuels, particularly biofuels, as sustainable alternatives to conventional diesel. For compression ignition engines, Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) represents a promising solution due to its clean combustion profile and high-quality fuel properties. HVO is a paraffinic fuel obtained via hydrotreatment of renewable lipids. It is characterized by a high cetane number (>70), very low particulate emissions, and excellent oxidative stability. However, the absence of polar molecules results in poor lubricity, which raises durability concerns for high-pressure fuel systems. Biodiesel, composed of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) derived from vegetable oils or used cooking oil, is known for its renewable origin and favorable lubricity. Its ester content enhances lubricity and contributes to reductions in carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbons (HC), and particulate matter. Nonetheless
Zaccai, Martina, Chiavola, Ornella, Palmieri, Fulvio, Verdoliva, Francesco
A Novel Power-Split Hybrid Electric Architecture for Off-Road Tracked Vehicles: Design and Performance Evaluation.2026-01-0258To be published on 04/07/2026
Tracked off-road vehicles operate at low speeds with high tractive effort and frequent skid-steer maneuvers, conditions that push torque and power demand to extremes and exacerbate powertrain efficiency losses. Electrification can improve energy conversion and mobility for such duty cycles. This paper introduces a novel power-split hybrid electric architecture for a tracked vehicle and benchmarks it against three designs: a conventional mechanical driveline, a series hybrid, and a P2 parallel hybrid. To enable fair, architecture-agnostic comparisons, a supervisory controller based on Stochastic Dynamic Programming (SDP) schedules engine operation and power flow across all layouts under representative off-road scenarios, including skid-steer events, with varying terrain and power-demand profiles. Results show higher energy conversion efficiency (lower fuel use) for the proposed power-split architecture, followed by the parallel, then series, and lastly conventional configuration across
Ghate, Atharva, Sundar, Anirudh, Zhu, Qilun, Prucka, Robert, Figueroa-Santos, Miriam, Barron, Morgan, Castanier, Matthew P.
Study of Deposit Control Additive Efficacy in Gasoline Direct Injection Engines2026-01-0349To be published on 04/07/2026
There is an increasing adoption of Direct-injection spark-ignition (DISI) engines in the market, which per 2024 EPA Automotive Trends Report represents 73% of new vehicles sold in the US. And while it is well accepted that DISI offers advantages over Port fuel injection (PFI) technology in meeting stringent CO2 emissions and fuel economy requirements set by the EPA, DISI engines are also associated with increased formation of injector deposits. These deposits may foul injectors and accumulate on the injector tip causing distorted spray patterns and diffusive combustion. Ultimately, this leads to engine performance deterioration and increased harmful emissions. To control deposit formation, detergent-type chemistries are added to the fuel in small amounts. Deposit control additives (DCAs) function by preventing the formation of deleterious injector deposits as well as removing existing ones. Standardized protocols describing the assessment of DCA in controlling injector deposits have
Soriano, Nestor, Chahal, Jasprit, Lang, Wendy, Cracknell, Roger, Williams, Rod
Lightweight Bubble Sheet Panel To Reduce Inverter Noise and Vibration for Electric Vehicles2026-01-0442To be published on 04/07/2026
Inverters are typically integrated into electric drive units for electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce packaging size and cost. However, coupled vibrations from the electric motor and gears are transmitted to the inverter, which, due to its large radiative panel, becomes a dominant noise source. Metal panels are required for electromagnetic interference (EMI) compliance, yet these covers usually lack sufficient stiffness or damping for noise control. Adding ribs and applying damping treatments results in excessive mass, cost, and packaging challenges. A new, patented bubble sheet panel design has been developed to enhance the structural strength and damping of the inverter while significantly reducing its mass. A thin sheet of aluminum or magnesium is welded onto the cover in an optimized pattern that enhances stiffness and damping performance while accommodating packaging requirements. The welding pattern can include logos or artistic designs to improve the panel’s appearance. The metal
He, Song, Bobel, Andrew, Naismith, Gregory, Yi, Wenwen, Patruni, Pavan Kumar
Experimental analysis and numerical simulation of the performance parameters of pyrolytic tire oil in a compression ignition engine.2026-01-0345To be published on 04/07/2026
The search for alternative solutions for non-fossil fuels has led to several studies worldwide. This study focuses on environmentally responsible solutions to accelerate tire degradation, focusing on the transformation of these residues into fuel for diesel engines. The objective of this study was to experimentally evaluate, through numerical simulation, the performance of a compression ignition engine operating with Diesel S10, crude and refined pyrolytic tire oil, and mixtures in proportions of 20, 40, and 60% with Diesel oil. The experimental tests were performed on a single-cylinder engine coupled to a dynamometer bench, and the numerical simulation was performed using the Diesel Engine RK software. The experimental results indicated that increasing the proportion of refined pyrolytic oil in diesel slightly improves engine performance up to approximately 2750 RPM, after which the performance is reduced compared to pure Diesel. The addition of crude pyrolytic oil slightly improves
Santana, Claudio Marcio, Prudente, Lucas Rhuan, ROCHA, ANA MAURA, Peixoto, Claudio
Identifying pressure drop and heat transfer correlations for a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack model of electric vehicles under hot-cold driving2026-01-0394To be published on 04/07/2026
The performance of a full lithium-ion battery (LIB) pack with its cooling system depends on the pressure drop and heat transfer from the cell to ambient air through coolant, cooling flow channels, air gaps, and pack cases. Predicting the LIB pack responses (i.e: voltage, SOC, temperature) requires accurate predictions of the thermal performance between the cells and ambient air and cooling flow behaviour inside the pack, respectively, since the pack has several thousand cells, cooling channels, and channel pipe bends. This work presents a systematic approach to identifying heat transfer and pressure drop ∆P correlations that capture the real-time thermal-electrical performance of a mass-produced LIB pack under constant speed (in winter) and transient driving (in summer). A vehicle test is conducted using a Tesla Model Y, a long-range, dual-motor model equipped with a 75-kWh LIB pack. The LIB pack's thermal and electrical performance is recorded under both constant speed and transient
Sok, Ratnak, Kusaka, Jin
Ambient and Initial Temperature Effects on Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Range and Energy Consumption Rate Modeled in FASTSim2026-01-0277To be published on 04/07/2026
Ambient and initial temperatures have a significant impact on the energy consumption rate of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to auxiliary loads and the dependence of battery efficiency on temperature. Quantifying these impacts can help BEV owners, communities, and researchers understand and prepare for the impact of temperature on BEV vehicles, especially as adoption increases. We used NREL's FASTSim 3 to investigate the impacts of a two-dimensional design-of-experiment that swept ambient and initial temperature in simulating a compact BEV hatchback over UDDS (city) and HWFET (highway) US EPA drive cycles. Compared to a 22 ° C ("cozy") initial / ambient temperature baseline in UDDS, a cold initial / cold ambient temperature (-7 ° C) resulted in a 221% increase in the energy consumption rate, a cozy initial / cold ambient temperature resulted in a 94% increase, a hot initial (45 ° C) / hot ambient (40 ° C) temperature resulted in a 40% increase, and a cozy initial / hot ambient
Baker, Chad, Steuteville, Robin, Holden, Jake, Gonder, Jeffrey, Carow, Kyle
AirCARE: Assessing the Impact of an Integrated Air Purification System on Vehicle Thermal Management2026-01-0272To be published on 04/07/2026
The increasing concentration of atmospheric pollutants in urban environments necessitates innovative solutions to mitigate their impact on public health and the environment. This work presents the AirCARE project, which investigates the integration of a catalytic converter and a particulate filter with a vehicle's radiator to create an active air purification system. The primary objective is to evaluate the feasibility and performance implications of this integrated system on the vehicle's thermal management. A comprehensive methodology combining computational modeling and experimental testing was employed. A 1D longitudinal vehicle model was developed to simulate the powertrain's heat generation and the cooling system's performance under various representative driving conditions. This model allows for a parametric study of the radiator, assessing the impact of the additional components on its heat exchange efficiency. Concurrently, experimental tests were conducted on a radiator to
de Carvalho Pinheiro, Henrique, Sartoretti, Enrico
Persistent Elevated Soot Emissions Induced by Clustered Stochastic Preignition Events2026-01-0314To be published on 04/07/2026
Stochastic Preignition (SPI) is an abnormal combustion phenomenon that can occur in spark-ignition engines particularly under high-load operation. SPI is characterized by uncontrolled initiation of combustion prior to spark discharge, an abnormal combustion process that can lead to severe knock events and significant engine damage. SPI has been associated with fuel properties, lubricant composition, and engine design and operation. In this work, a single-cylinder test engine with a dry-sump oil system was utilized to study the SPI response of E10 and E25 fuels with a range of Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP). An automated test procedure was employed, consisting of ten square-waved load profile segments, with each segment composed of 5 min of low-load operation followed by 25 min of sustained high-load operation. These tests were replicated across multiple days of testing with a triple flush of lubricant between each test, and an online Fuel in Oil diagnostic measurement. Exhaust particulate
Splitter, Derek, Jatana, Gurneesh, DelVescovo, Dan, Douvry-Rabjeau, Julien, Fioroni, Gina, Chapman, Elana, Salyers, John
Impact of Hydrothermal Aging and Chemical Poisoning on NOx Reduction Performance of SCR – A Simulation Study2026-01-0372To be published on 04/07/2026
Diesel aftertreatment systems continue to play a critical role in compliance of tailpipe criteria pollutant compliance for commercial transportation applications. Quantification of performance of the aftertreatment system in particular Selective Catalytic Reduction component as a function of aging is critical in ensuring real world tailpipe NOx standard for aged systems. As part of A2CAT-II consortium at Southwest research Institute this aspect of the production AT system was studied for different aging conditions using a set of DAAAC (Diesel Aftertreatment Accelerated Aging Cycle) aged components. The performance of these aged components was quantified through a set of steady state reactor tests and transient ECTO burner lab tests that simulate on engine performance. The data was collected at 0, 33, 66 and 100% equivalent aging conditions and this data was used to develop a GT suite-based model with a set of inhibition factors to simulate the loss of Ammonia Storage Capacity and
Chundru, Venkata Rajesh
Effect of Liquefied-Gas Fluid Properties in a High-Pressure Fuel Pump2026-01-0273To be published on 04/07/2026
Paper considers the effects of fluid properties of liquified gases during high pressure pumping, at ranges from 200 to 1500 bar. In particular, the paper examines the effects of compressibility on the pumping and resulting loading torque characteristics. Experimental tests and simulated performance based on a 1-D model of the pump are compared for D2 and DME on a high-pressure fuel pump, piston style, featuring two plunger-barrels. Each of the pump’s plunger-barrel is inlet metered electronically, allowing the pump to run at a variable displacement and with the flexibility to deactivate one or both plungers fully. Tests were conducted at speeds of 500 to 1500 rpm, and to pressures of 1500 bar, a range of pressure nor seeing before with liquified fluids such as DME. The model captures the response of the inlet metering valve and output valve lifts across speed and loads. The output check valve is subject to the pressure pulsations and shows the importance to optimize its time response
De Ojeda, William, Wu, Simon (Haibao)
Accelerated Computed Tomography for Spray Characterization2026-01-0341To be published on 04/07/2026
Computed tomography (CT) is a valuable diagnostic technique for visualizing plume direction and assessing mixture quality within combustion chambers under engine-relevant conditions. High-speed extinction imaging followed by tomographic reconstruction enables temporally and spatially resolved measurements of liquid volume fraction and plume evolution in multi-jet sprays. Traditionally, tomographic reconstruction requires capturing multiple angular views by rotating the injector and averaging over numerous injections to ensure statistical convergence. This process is time-intensive, particularly due to the large volume of data acquisition and the corresponding delays in data saving, often requiring dozens of injections per view angle. In this study, we investigate the minimum number of injections required to achieve sufficient CT image quality, thereby significantly reducing experimental time. Two injectors are evaluated: a symmetric 8-hole Spray M injector from the Engine Combustion
Yi, Junghwa, Wan, Kevin, Pickett, Lyle
Model-based Development of a Heavy-Duty H2-ICE and Integrated, Turbogeneration, Electrification, and Supercharging (ITES) System2026-01-0426To be published on 04/07/2026
Changing global economic conditions and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to reduce their impact on climate and public health is driving the need to develop alternative technologies to meet the demands of heavy-duty vehicles and increase propulsion system efficiency. This study combines a Hydrogen internal combustion engine (H2-ICE) for its near zero CO2 emissions capability, with electrically assisted turbocharging, exhaust energy recovery, and mild hybridization to maximize propulsion system efficiency in real-world driving. The focus is on model-based integration and optimization of a technology package termed as the Integrated, Turbogeneration, Electrification, and Supercharging (ITES) system to demonstrate its potential for low emissions, high efficiency, and reduced cost will be demonstrated. In a previous study, a H2-ICE and aftertreatment concept for a MY2027 7.7L medium heavy-duty on-road engine was developed and evaluated through 1D simulation. The concept was to
Bustamante, Oscar, Correia Garcia, Bruno, Joshi, Satyum, Franke, Michael
Combustion Characterization of Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) as an Alternative Fuel for Use in IC Engines2026-01-0317To be published on 04/07/2026
In the endeavors to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, synthetic fuels from less carbon intensive feedstocks can provide an alternative. These synthetic fuels have gained traction in the aviation industry as sustainable aerospace fuels (SAFs). One such fuel is a synthetic paraffinic kerosene derived from hydroprocessed esters and fatty acids (HEFA). Preliminary research has also suggested that this fuel may also be favorable for use in IC engines. This investigation will explore the combustion characteristics of HEFA in an IC engine in more detail. The thermophysical properties of HEFA were investigated, and found comparable to or improving upon those of ULSD. Spray atomization analysis revealed more than 25% smaller SMD compared to ULSD, and lower span factor indicating a more uniform spray which can promote faster formation of a homogenous mixture. A tribological analysis using a pin-on-disk tribometer revealed comparable lubricity compared to ULSD
Soloiu, Valentin, Willis, James, Norton, Coleman, Davis, Zachary, Peralta Lopez, Guillermo, Rahman, Mosfequr
Noninvasive Loss Breakdown of an Electric Drive Unit2026-01-0448To be published on 04/07/2026
Techniques exist to precisely measure the electromechanical efficiency in an electric drive unit (EDU, defined here as the combined motor and geartrain). While total drive unit efficiency is an important metric, it does not quantify the different loss sources in the EDU. Due to the tight packaging in production EDUs, it’s impractical to mount a torque transducer between the electric machine and gearbox to separate the losses from these components. Additionally, this approach does not separate the winding, core, and mechanical losses present in the electric machine. In this work, we developed a noninvasive approach to distinguish winding, core, and mechanical losses for EDUs containing synchronous electric machines. To separate the effects of these losses, mechanical output power was held constant at several test points while varying the stator’s current amplitude and angle. By maintaining the mechanical power at a constant value and varying the stator current, the core and winding
Woods, Tyler, Gross, Michael, Drallmeier, Joseph
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