Researching Methodology
- 1. 0 Faculty of Science,Engineering and Computing Schoolof Mechanical and AerospaceEngineering Lecturer: Dr. A. Aboutorabi Course: Automotive Engineering Name: Shih Cheng Tung KU ID: K1617281 ME7711 Engineering Research Techniques, Entrepreneurship and Quality Management Assignment 1: Researching researchers
- 2. 1 Abstract There are various types of research in each academic area. Systematic research should be explored and studied in order to extend the development of knowledge. In this report an engineering topic is selected that focuses on hybrid electric motorbikes. Comparing and analysing two relevant journal papers which is divided into several parts in this report. Firstly, an introduction presents the background, and a literature review is conducted to identify the expectation. Secondly, the report carries out the aim and objectives that are approached through the well-structured methods and methodology. Finally, analysing the collected data and the conclusion contribute to part of report as well. The interpretation of hybrid electric motorbike is discovered so as to assist the further proposal. Key words: research process, methodology, data collection, hybrid electric motorbike
- 3. 2 Table of contents page 1. Introduction …………………………………………………… 3 2. Identify and review …………………………………………………… 4 3. Aims and objectives …………………………………………………… 4 4. Methodology and Methods …………………………………………………… 5 5. Data collection and Analyses …………………………………………………… 6 6. Conclusion …………………………………………………… 7 7. References and bibliography …………………………………………………… 8 Appendix: Project proposal …………………………………………………… 10
- 4. 3 1. Introduction Researching other researcher’s work could contribute to academic knowledge certainly. The process of researching not only develops the necessary skills for our master courses but also inspires the innovative ideas for challenges (Aboutorabi, 2015a). In addition, the management of process is required that could help construct a good research. For example, a proper process should involve planning, resources, execution, analysis and reporting which are connected each with feedbacks or feedforwards (Aboutorabi, 2015b). Two related research papers which focus on one specific topic are selected in order to compare and analyse in this report. First research paper, Design and performance of a power train for mild-hybrid motorcycle prototype, is delivered by an Italian team which is formed by Mattia Morandin (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013). Second research paper, MOTORBIKE ACCELERATION IMPROVING USING HYBRID ENGINE, is conducted by Zbyněk Bureš’s team (Bureš and Franc, 2009). There are multiple solutions to deal with the challenge, applying the hybrid technology on a motorbike. For saving energy and emission reduction, technology of hybrid electric vehicle is growing up in few decade (Ferrari, Morandin, and Bolognani, 2012). The requirements of modern combustion engine aim to minimise the volume and raise the performance at the same time (Bureš and Franc, 2009). Therefore, there are two research studies have been done that provide a concept of hybrid electric motorbike. The conversion from internal combustion engine motorbikes to hybrid electric motorbikes is attractive. However, there are still possible optimizations and open issues to be considered in order to improve the volume and the weight of the electric parts. Both research resources propose a specific design for hybrid electric motorcycles, which provide optimization and advantages of the construction. First research paper claims that the most critical component in hybrid electric motorbikes is the energy storage system (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013). Conception of second research paper comes out of the microprocessor controlled electromotor and combustion engine collaboration as well (Bureš and Franc, 2009).
- 5. 4 2. Identify and review Due to the drain on natural resources and environmental issues, sustainable energy has become more popular in recent year. For instance, hybrid technology could be a pathway to improve the energy consumption (Ferrari, Morandin, and Bolognani, 2012). Hybrid technology has been successful applied on different types of vehicle. There is a wide selection of constructions and designs of hybrid electric system which have been applied. Moreover, the hybrid electric system could be not only suitable for cars but also for motorbikes. However, the industry of hybrid electric motorbikes has not been developed as mass production. The electric machine and internal combustion engine could complement each other in order to approach to a lower fuel consumption and higher efficiency ideally (Bureš and Franc, 2009). For example, Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive which is fitted on Prius could run over 50 mile per gallon through the recycle of energy (Toyota Motor Corporation, 2003). Thus we can realise the hybrid technology is a potential development because the hybrid technology could decrease costs of service as well. Furthermore, the environmental issues might be lessened through the ultilisation of motorbike’s hybrid electric system. Lower price and greater petrol consumption lead to motorbike becomes a paramount vehicle in the world. Especially for the developing countries in Asia, motorbikes usually are used as primary transportation to commuting also the rate of motorcycle ownership grow increasingly (Asri et al., 2013). The characteristics of motorbikes which are easier maintained and affordable prices contribute to improving utilisation of motorbikes. Although there are several products of electric motorbike on market, user would consider about higher costs and durability of batteries. 3. Aims and objectives So as to approach the higher performance of power, both research target at hybrid electric motorbike through an electrical machine (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013). Besides, the hybrid electric motorbike could reduce the pollutions such as air and noise. Both solutions of research deal with the main condition which are small dimension and low fuel consumption. However, different energy storage systems are chosen in two research, which are Nickel-metal hydrate battery and supercapacitor. In addition, supercapacitors of
- 6. 5 hybrid electric motorbike are charged by the braking energy for accelerating the motorbike in second research paper (Bureš and Franc, 2009). 4. Methodology and Methods The methodology involves the systematic analysis of structured methods which are applied to a branch of knowledge (Zweiri, 2015). Therefore, the methodology could be an important part in the research. The methods of approaching the solution are constructed to both resources which are based on similar topic. However, the different methodologies between them are compared. For instance, first research study investigates a methodology of appropriate technology for the energy storage system. The powertrain architecture of first research study is composed by an internal combustion engine direct connected to a surface PM (SPM) synchronous electric machine, a bi-directional single-stage power converter and an energy storage system (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013) Afterward, the powertrain system is fitted in the motorbike which is Aprilia RS4 125. The predictions of efficiency are simulated by finite elements and mathematical software through the comparison of different type of energy storage system s. Furthermore, the hybrid electric motorbike is examined on a real racetrack and test bench for reporting a practical measurement. On the other hand, second research study processes a conception which combines with mechanical to electrical energy conversion, electric energy main sources and vice versa (Bureš and Franc, 2009). The microprocessor controlled electromotor optimises the performance, which is connected to braking energy charged supercapacitors. Both research measure the required parametric of component parts and simulate the characteristics by computer software for designing the methods. Compare to second resource, first resource adopts various types of practical tests because the prototype of hybrid electric motorbike has been built. Both research extend the material by referring their previous research which is relevant. However, first research paper encompasses the topic of hybrid electric motorbike precisely that it could approach to the greater range of methods.
- 7. 6 First research methods: Powertrain overview: Performance of the Electrical Machine, Performance of the electric converter and Energy storage system Electric machine control scheme: Motoring mode and Generating mode Experimental prototype tests Test bench measurement Race track tests Second research methods: Electric system unit Components tests and measurements for the choice of power train regulation characteristics: Parametric tests of Electric Rotary Machine, Efficiency of the system Electric Rotary Machine, Parametric tests of generator and Basic description of Electronic Control Unit Modes of hybrid activation system 5. Data collection and Analyses Both resources present valuable data which based on reasonable experiments. The appliances of quantitative data are researched in order to analyse the possibilities of consequence. While second resource shows the characteristics in line charts, first resource presents the simulating map of efficiency. Moreover, there are much more modelling equations in first research paper for comparing the data. The mathematical methods and a concrete prototype are the differences between two sources. Although both research progress the hybrid electric motorbike, the collection of data could be distinct. For example, first research paper not only imitates a theoretical result but also produces specific experiments by testing on racetrack and bench. Another source emerges comparable information by testing on DYNO as well but the design is not
- 8. 7 fitted on a real motorbike. In other words, the data which are collected in second research paper could be less accurate than first research paper. Conversely, there are several similarities of experimental methods between two resources. For instance, the charts of specifications are shown and compared in order to optimise the design. First resource collects diverse data of batteries and adopts Ni-MH batteries as a prototype of energy storage system. The Ni-MH batteries pack could provide 96% working efficiency and maximum 1500kW charging power within the balancing cost and weight (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013) The optimisation of generator is dedicated through a two-step parameter testing of six different types in second research paper. The DYNO simulates the results of six different generator prototypes so as to approach the suitable characteristic of charging (Bureš and Franc, 2009). In addition, both of them establish the hybrid technology of two-wheel vehicle that could not only enhance the capability of horsepower but also lessen the environmental pollution. In first research paper, the results demonstrate that the progress of the top speed estimate 20 per cent within only 10 per cent increasing weight (Morandin, Ferrari, and Bolognani, 2013). However, the most of measurements focus on the performance of electric machine and batteries charging. The energy consumption and reducing pollution might be the important issues as well. Thus the part of data collection could involve the tests of gas emissions and fuel consumption in order to present the further advantages of hybrid technology. 6. Conclusion The demand of hybrid technology could increase in order to solve the problem of energy sources. The hybrid electric motorbike is worth studying that the prototype of both research present optimistic performances. Similarly, due to the hybrid system of motorbike could be applied in the few modifications. It is possible to approach the design via the analysis and comparison of two resources. As shows in both research, the conception of hybrid electric motorbike could be designed in a wide range of styles. While first research paper accomplishes a prototype which based on a four-stroke 125cc internal combustion engine, second research paper emphasizes on two-stroke internal combustion engine. The hybrid system not only supplies the assistance for enhancing the
- 9. 8 acceleration but lessens the fuel consumption and emission of gas through the electric motor. In addition, the durability of internal combustion engine also could be improved by collaboration of electric machine. Thus hybrid electric motorbike could contend both advantages of petrol and electric. Two different power sources not only provide vehicle a stronger performance including horse power, torque and driving distance but also in lower gas emission and petrol consumption. 7. References and bibliography Aboutorabi, A. (2015a). Introduction to the module: What is research?, lecture notes distributed in the topic ME7711 Engineering Research Techniques, Entrepreneurship and Quality Management. Kingston University London, Roehampton Vale on 28 September. Aboutorabi, A. (2015b). Lecture: From idea to project proposal, lecture notes distributed in the topic ME7711 Engineering Research Techniques, Entrepreneurship and Quality Management. Kingston University London, Roehampton Vale on 29 September. Asri, A., Ramli, M.I., Ali, N. and Samang, L. (2013) ‘The motorcycle usage characteristics in developing countries: The operation cost and ownership of motorcycles in Makassar - Indonesia’, Proceedings of the Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studies, 9. Bureš, Z. and Franc, V. (2009) ‘MOTORBIKE ACCELERATION IMPROVING USING HYBRID ENGINE’, 2009 Applied Electronics, , pp. 65–68. Ferrari, M., Morandin, M. and Bolognani, S. (2012) ‘Mild hybrid motorcycles: Choice of the energy storage system’, 2012 IEEE International Energy Conference and Exhibition (ENERGYCON), . doi: 10.1109/energycon.2012.6348296. Morandin, M., Ferrari, M. and Bolognani, S. (2013) ‘Design and performance of a power train for mild-hybrid motorcycle prototype’, 2013 International Electric Machines & Drives Conference, , pp. 1–8. doi: 10.1109/iemdc.2013.6556121. Toyota Motor Corporation (2003) TOYOTA HYBRID SYSTEM. Available at: http://www.evworld.com/library/toyotahs2.pdf (Accessed: 15 October 2016).
- 10. 9 Zweiri, Y. (2015). Lecture: Research Methodology, lecture notes distributed in the topic ME7711 Engineering Research Techniques, Entrepreneurship and Quality Management. Kingston University London, Roehampton Vale on 28 September.
- 11. 10 ME7711- Engineering Research Techniques Project proposal Proposer Name: Shih Cheng Tung Id Number: K1617281 Project Title: The effects of hybrid electric motorbike on performance and fuel consumption through a modified electric machine and a Lithium-ion batteries. Introduction & Project background research Due to the drain on natural resources and environmental issues, sustainable energy has become more popular in recent year. For instance, hybrid technology could be a pathway to improve the energy consumption. The common combinations of hybrid power are internal combustion engine and electric motor. In addition, there is a wide of constructions and designs of hybrid electric system which have been applied. The hybrid electric system is not only suitable for cars but also suitable for motorbikes. However, the industry of hybrid electric motorbikes has not been developed as mass production. Hybrid technology has been successful applied on different types of vehicle. The electric motor and internal combustion engine could complement each other in order to approach to a lower fuel consumption and higher efficiency ideally. For example, Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive on Prius could run over 50 mile per gallon (Toyota, 2003). Thus we can see the hybrid technology is a potential development because the hybrid technology could decrease costs of service as well. Furthermore, the environmental issues might be lessened through the ultilisation of motorbike’s hybrid electric system. Lower price and greater petrol consumption lead to motorbike becomes a paramount vehicle in the world. Especially for the developing countries in Asia, motorbikes usually are used as primary transportation to commuting also the rate of motorcycle ownership grow increasingly (Asri et al, 2013). The characteristics of motorbikes which are easier maintained and affordable prices contribute to improving utilisation of motorbikes. Although there are several products of electric motorbike on market, user would consider about higher costs and durability of batteries.
- 12. 11 Project aim and objectives: To approach the higher performance of power, the project targets at hybrid electric motorbike through a modified electrical machine. The hybrid electric motorbike deal with the main condition which are small dimension and low fuel consumption. The slightly modified on common products could be an easy solution in order to reach the reasonable costs. In addition, smaller dimension and lighter weight both are the considerations of the design. The objectives include a practical prototype so as to measure the accurate data. The specific tests are taken through the DYNO bench to confirm the durability and performance of the prototype. Intellectual challenge: The hybrid electric system is applied widely in 4-wheel vehicles nowadays. However, the research of hybrid electric motorbikes are still developing. There are various types of designs of hybrid electric motorbikes that are innovated in different construction. However, the design could be changed in path with improvement of materials. There is a challenge to catch up the generation of new technology. Due to the limited volume and weight, the selection of components also could be an important issue. In order to approach the purpose, the design need to be cost-effective. Balancing the costs should be considered in the conception but also need to maintain the quality.
- 13. 12 Methodology and plan: 1. Literature review – conducting research of existing designs, carrying out the basic structure and identifying the appropriate control system in hybrid electric system – 5 weeks 2. Collecting necessary data for computing models of the hybrid electric system– 2 week. 3. Modelling the prediction of performance through different sets of parameter by Matlab and Simulink software – 2 weeks. 4. Designing the control system in order to manage the hybrid electric system – 2 weeks. 5. Building the prototype of hybrid electric motorbike – 3 weeks. 6. Testing the hybrid electric motorbike on DYNO bench – 1 weeks. The methods of approaching the solution contribute to the project efficiently. An investigation is presented so as to identify the effectiveness of the hybrid electric motorbike. Higher performance and lower fuel consumption could be achieved through the conception. Moreover, the project needs a well-organise process management to complete it in the same time. The hybrid electric system is designed through the collaboration of internal combustion engine and modified electric machine. The energy storage system represents the essential part in the hybrid electric system as well (Morandin et al., 2013). Connecting the modified electric machine to the energy storage system not only for charging but also provides the extra torque when acceleration is needed (Bureš and Franc, 2009). In order to administer the current flows, the control system is responsible for distributing the energy. The modified electric machine could generate greater electricity and offer higher performance that depend on the mode of control system. Although the weight of motorbike would increase slightly, lessening the environmental pollution and rising the efficiency are paramount benefits. Project deliverables: - A data model of a motorbike - A characteristic model of batteries and modified electric machine - A design of control system for on board hybrid system - A specific prototype of the hybrid electric motorbike and its bench test - MSc dissertation
- 14. 13 Resources required: - Matlab and Simulink software - available in Kingston University computer lab - DYNO test bench - available in Kingston University automotive lab - Lithium-ion batteries and modified electric machine - Test motorbike Bibliography / References: Asri, A., Ramli, M.I., Ali, N. and Samang, L. (2013) ‘The motorcycle usage characteristics in developing countries: The operation cost and ownership of motorcycles in Makassar -Indonesia’, Proceedings of the Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studies, 9. Bureš, Z. and Franc, V. (2009) ‘MOTORBIKE ACCELERATION IMPROVING USING HYBRID ENGINE’, 2009 Applied Electronics, , pp. 65–68. Morandin, M., Ferrari, M. and Bolognani, S. (2013) ‘Design and performance of a power train for mild-hybrid motorcycle prototype’, 2013 International Electric Machines & Drives Conference, , pp. 1–8. doi: 10.1109/iemdc.2013.6556121. Toyota Motor Corporation (2003) TOYOTA HYBRID SYSTEM. Available at: http://www.evworld.com/library/toyotahs2.pdf (Accessed: 15 October 2016).