Introduction to Prius Power Flow

[acdii]

This is some interesting reading. When I think of CVT transmission, I am thinking of variable ratio pulleys, like those used on snowmobiles and other off road vehicles where the diameter of the two pulleys change to provide a constant engine speed while increasing the output shaft speed. Here the "gears" are fixed, and the three different motors are variable. Cool. I believe there is also less wear in this setup than the other type as there are no friction devices like a chain that will wear against the pulleys. As long as the chain doesn't stretch, and the fluid is kept clean, this setup should last a very long time.

[mwbueno]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(MPG > HP @ Apr 1 2007, 05:58 PM) [snapback]416177[/snapback]</div>

...Also, when you mention "grade," does the Prius use something like a piezo gyro to measure changes in inclination?
[/b]

There is a Piezoelectric Ceramic Gyro in the optional factory Navigation system. It is used primarily in parallel with the GPS location system to help display the vehicle in the navigation display on proper routes & turns. It is also used to track the vehicle when GPS signals are being blocked such as in tunnels & other places where the GPS signal is weak or non-existent.

There are also two inclination sensors in the combination meter assembly which are reportedly being used to help display proper fuel levels when parked or running along longitudinally or latitudinally sloped roadways.

It has been noted by some serious Prius 'hackers' that these inclinimometers are possibly feeding the main HV ECU information also as the distribution of torque requirements amongst MG1, MG2 & the ICE change noticeably on even slight inclines or declines while strong headwinds or tailwinds requiring equal amounts of torque have their requirements distributed or filled quite differently amongst the motive devices.

Best Regards,
Wayne – http://privatenrg.com

[mwbueno]

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(mwbueno @ Jul 24 2007, 05:07 PM) [snapback]484357[/snapback]</div>

these inclinimometers
[/b]

Ooops,... After 80,000+ miles, I've got anemometer on the brain diseases... that should be 'inclinometer'

[brad_rules_man]

Originally Posted by john1701a

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(bwilson4web @ Mar 6 2007, 05:06 AM) [snapback]400782[/snapback]</div>

That's why this document was created...



With a good understanding from the 10 pages of pictures & descriptions, you can take that next step (Bob's info). Understanding the relation of RPM, vehicle speed, and electricity available stimulates a new level of interest. The system is quite clever... and remarkably simple, despite what that first impression leaves you thinking.

Everyone with a Prius should go to his website, and print his manual. I put one in the magazine pouch behind the driver's seat. I have a nice color laser printer with a duplexer at my dispense, and am thinking of printing copies for the hybridfest in Madison. However, I think I will need to print many more copies. It is one of the best, and most comprehensive writings on the Prius I have ever seen. It helped me out with my 2003, 2005, and 2006 model prii.