Variable speed generator arrangement and control

摘要

The arrangement comprises a heat engine (12) driving a generator (14) through a transmission (18) which is arranged to vary the input speed of the generator (14) with respect to the speed of the engine (12). The transmission ratio is either stepped or continuously variable and is controlled by a controller (20) to achieve desired engine efficiency in response to prevailing operating conditions presented to the generator. The generator arrangement may be used as part of a series hybrid powertrain of a vehicle (10) which provides power to a set of traction motors (1).