Simulation of a Novel Approach for Particulate Filter Heating of Hybrid Powertrains with Model-In-Loop

Catalytic converters and particulate filters are used to meet emission criteria for internal combustion engines. However, catalytic converters are effective only above light-off temperatures and particulate filters do not perform soot regeneration for low temperatures. Temperature conditions can be a challenge both during cold starts and during engine operation as a result of cooling events in a driving event. Cooling events are observed more often for a hybrid vehicle than for a conventional vehicle. Various strategies are used to keep aftertreatment temperatures in components working range. The increase in the number of instances where heating is required for a hybrid vehicle would require new strategies. This paper highlights the possible gains of a novel method for catalyst heating, where battery is charged during heating of aftertreatment achieved by an increase in torque demand. The strategy is simulated in AVL CruiseM, and an important gain for fuel consumption/energy management and reduced regeneration time is observed.