Rivian Automotive, Inc.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SHAFT TORQUE SECURITY ELECTRICAL VEHICLES

Abstract:

A torque security system for a vehicle is provided. The system receives a signal from a sensor coupled to a motor shaft of an electric motor and determines an acceleration of the electric motor, based on the signal from the sensor that indicates an amount of rotation of the motor shaft. The system determines an internal torque between the motor shaft and an input gear coupled to the motor shaft, based on the acceleration of the electric motor and an inertia of the electric motor and a gearbox. The powertrain of the vehicle comprises the gearbox and the electric motor, and the input gear couples the electric motor to the gearbox. The system determines whether the internal torque exceeds a threshold torque, and in response to determining that the internal torque exceeds the threshold torque, the system reduces power output to the electric motor. The system also diagnoses the health of the gearbox.