SYSTEM CONTROL
This system lowers the generated voltage when the vehicle is not decelerating, and raises the generated voltage when the vehicle is decelerating. This reduces the load on the engine as a result of the electric generation of the generator, thus contributing to the fuel economy of the engine. When idling or driving at a constant speed, this system regulates the generated voltage in order to place the amperage estimation value close to the target value.
This control consists of a generator control ECU assembly with a built-in battery current sensor and battery temperature sensor, generator, various sensors, switches and ECM.
The ECM detects the driving condition based on signals from various sensors and switches generator control ECU assembly detects the charging condition based on signals from the generator assembly, battery current sensor and battery temperatur sensor. The ECM determines the vehicle driving conditions, and based on this information, the generator control ECU assembly sends a voltage request signal to the generator assembly.
The generator control ECU assembly stops the charging control and the generator switches to normal power generation mode under the following conditions:
Low battery capacity
Low or high battery temperature
Wipers operating, blower motor operating or tail light relay ON
Battery current sensor or battery temperature sensor malfunction
Engine started
Communication failure (local communication between generator control ECU assembly and ECM)
Generator assembly malfunction
Battery charged for approximately 2.5 to 4 hours.
Accumulated driving time becomes approximately 20 hours.