Patent ID: 6994177
Filing Date: 2006-02-07
Classification: B60K,B60L,B60W,F16D,F16H,Y02T,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A hybrid drive system for an automotive vehicle, comprising: (a) an engine operable by combustion of a fuel to generate a drive force; (b) an electric motor; (c) an output member operatively connected to a drive wheel of the vehicle for driving the vehicle; (d) a planetary gear device having a first rotary element connected to said engine, a second rotary element connected to said electric motor, and a third rotary element; (e) a first clutch through which said second rotary element is connected to said output member; (f) a second clutch through which said third rotary element is connected to said output member; (g) means for controlling the hybrid drive system to engage said first clutch and release said second clutch to thereby establish a forward motor drive mode in which the automotive vehicle is driven in a forward direction by operation of said electric motor while said engine is at rest; to engage both of said first clutch and said second clutch to establish a direct engine drive mode in which the automotive vehicle is driven in the forward direction by operation of said engine, with said planetary gear device being rotated as a unit, and to release said first clutch and engage said second clutch to establish an engine-and-motor drive mode in which the automotive vehicle is driven in the forward direction by operation of both of said engine and said electric motor; to determine whether said engine is likely to stall if said direct engine drive mode is established, when it is determined that a vehicle drive mode should be switched from said forward motor drive mode to said direct engine drive mode; and to establish said engine-and-motor drive mode, when it is determined that the engine is likely to stall if said direct engine drive mode is established.