Patent ID: 8364372
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: B60K,B60W,F02D,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A method of controlling an electronic throttle on an engine of a hybrid powertrain, wherein the engine powers a first motor/generator which functions as a generator to power a second motor/generator that powers an output member; wherein the electronic throttle is adjustable by a throttle motor and is biased to a de-energized position when the throttle motor is off, comprising: determining whether both a commanded position of the throttle and an actual position of the throttle are within a predetermined range of the de-energized position; starting a timer if both the commanded position of the throttle and the actual position of the throttle are determined to be within the predetermined range of the de-energized position; and de-energizing the throttle motor when the timer has been on for at least a predetermined period of time; wherein the de-energized position is selected for the engine to operate in a predetermined optimal state to power the first motor/generator.