Digital Or Programmed Data Processor Patents (Class 701/102)
  • Publication number: 20130338901
    Abstract: A system is provided for controlling a powered unit having an engine configured to operate using a plurality of fuel types each in a corresponding fuel tank. The system includes a controller operable to transmit a first set of control signals including a first set of valve signals to the each fuel tank based at least in part on a first stored engine operating profile to control amounts of fuel from each fuel tank to the engine. The controller can transmit a second set of control signals including a second set of valve signals to each fuel tank based at least in part on a second stored engine operating profile to control amounts of fuel from each fuel tank to the engine. Further, the controller can switch, by transmitting either the first set of control signals or the second set of control signals, between a first operating condition associated with a first external domain and a second condition associated with a second external domain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ajith Kuttannair Kumar, Wolfgang Daum
  • Patent number: 8612115
    Abstract: A method of controlling the operation of a particulate filter in an exhaust gas after-treatment system may comprise calculating a ratio of particulate loading rate to filter regeneration rate using a mass-based soot load estimation scheme and comparing the ratio of particulate loading rate to filter regeneration rate to a predetermined threshold value. The method may further comprise controlling operating conditions of the particulate filter to maintain the ratio of particulate loading rate to filter regeneration rate at a value above the predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Sam George, Suhao He, Achim Karl-Erich Heibel
  • Patent number: 8612107
    Abstract: Method, control apparatus and powertrain system controller are provided for real-time, self-learning control based on individual operating style. The method calibrates powertrain system performance in a passenger vehicle in real-time based on individual operating style. The method includes powering the vehicle with the system and generating a sequence of system operating point transitions based on an operating style of an operator of the vehicle during the step of powering. The method further includes learning a set of optimum values of controllable system variables in real-time during the steps of powering and generating based on the sequence of system operating point transitions and predetermined performance criteria for the system. The method still further includes generating control signals based on the set of optimum values to control operation of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Michigan
    Inventor: Andreas A. Malikopoulos
  • Publication number: 20130332047
    Abstract: A rail vehicle has a diesel engine, an engine radiator and a cooling circuit that connects the diesel engine to the engine radiator. A cooling liquid is circulated in the cooling circuit, a cooling liquid temperature of the circulated cooling liquid and an outer air temperature of the atmospheric outer air are detected. The outer air temperature is compared with the outer air limit temperature, the cooling power of the engine radiator is set in such a way that the cooling liquid temperature corresponds to a normal operating temperature if the outer air temperature is less than the outer air limit temperature. The cooling power of the engine radiator is set such that the cooling liquid temperature corresponds to a lower operating temperature below the normal operating temperature if the outer air temperature is greater than the outer air limit temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Stefan Hintermeir
  • Publication number: 20130332045
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for detecting a spall in an engine. The vehicle, for example, may include, but is not limited to an engine, an oil debris sensor coupled to the engine, a communications system, and a processor communicatively coupled to the oil debris sensor and the communications system. The processor may be configured to increment a counter when the oil debris sensor detects a particle over a predetermined size, increment the counter when a mass of a plurality of particles under the predetermined size exceeds a predetermined mass threshold, transmit, via the communications system, a first message when the counter exceeds a predetermined counter threshold, and reset the counter after predetermined amount of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Onder Uluyol, Chris Hickenbottom
  • Publication number: 20130332046
    Abstract: A microcontroller for use in a control device for an internal combustion engine includes: an analysis access via which internal data in the microcontroller can be accessed from outside the microcontroller; a clock generator which generates clock timing for data communication of the microcontroller with other units. The microcontroller is configured to change over from a first clock to a second clock when there is an access to the microcontroller via the analysis access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Axel AUE, Matthias SCHREIBER
  • Patent number: 8606483
    Abstract: An engine control system of a vehicle includes a road grade module and a predictive control module. The road grade module detects a grade of a road that is ahead of the vehicle. The predictive control module detects that a first cylinder of an engine of the vehicle is deactivated while a second cylinder of the engine is activated. The predictive control module activates the first cylinder based on the grade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventors: Ashish S. Krupadanam, Mike M. McDonald, William C. Albertson
  • Patent number: 8606484
    Abstract: A method for correcting an output characteristic of an in-cylinder pressure sensor has a problem of insufficient correction precision because the measurement range required for the detection of a peak in-cylinder pressure and an ignition timing resides in a high-pressure region of an in-cylinder combustion cycle, whereas a reference pressure used for correction is measured while leaving an intake valve and an exhaust valve open, so that the reference pressure is out of the required measurement range. An apparatus for measuring an in-cylinder pressure includes: exhaust pressure detection means disposed in an exhaust port of an internal combustion engine to measure an exhaust pressure in the exhaust port; exhaust pressure recording means that records time history of the measured exhaust pressure; and peak exhaust pressure detection means that detects a peak value for each pulsation cycle of the exhaust pressure on the basis of the recorded time history of the exhaust pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Eiichiro Ohata
  • Patent number: 8606485
    Abstract: An ECU executes a program including a step (S102) of prohibiting idle priority control if automatic stop control of an engine is prohibited (YES in S100), and a step (S104) of permitting the idle priority control if the automatic stop control of the engine is not prohibited (NO in S100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Daigo Ando
  • Publication number: 20130325291
    Abstract: A system according the principles of the present disclosure includes a torque determination module and a torque limit module. The torque determination module determines a first torque that prevents an engine from stalling. The torque limit module limits engine torque based on the first torque when a driver actuates an accelerator pedal from a first position in which the accelerator pedal is not depressed to a second position in which the accelerator pedal is depressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Krishnendu Kar, Bret J. Keller
  • Publication number: 20130325292
    Abstract: A system for controlling the number of revolution for an engine of a farm work vehicle having an electronic engine attached thereon is provided. The system includes a foot accelerator pedal sensor for detecting the maneuvering location of a foot accelerator pedal; a hand accelerator lever sensor for detecting the maneuvering location of a hand accelerator lever; an engine cruise control (ECC) on/off switch onto which an operation command is inputted for maintaining the number of revolution for the engine at a fixed speed; and an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling the number of revolution for the engine at a number of revolution designated according to an operation signal of the ECC on/off switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: DAEDONG INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sang Rae Park, O Hyun Kwon
  • Publication number: 20130325290
    Abstract: A system according to the principles of the present disclosure includes a valve control module and a fault detection module. The valve control module controls a valve actuator to actuate a valve of an engine from a first lift position to a second lift position that is different from the first lift position. The valve includes at least one of an intake valve and an exhaust valve. The fault detection module detects a fault in at least one of a valve lift sensor and the valve actuator based on input received from the valve lift sensor when the valve is adjusted to the first lift position and when the valve is adjusted to the second lift position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Ronald J. Pierik
  • Patent number: 8597160
    Abstract: An engine with a fast vacuum recovery brake booster system is disclosed. In one example, an actuator is adjusted in response to a flow between the brake booster and an engine intake manifold. Operation of the engine and vehicle brakes may be improved especially when the engine is boosted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Fazal Urrahman Syed, Mathew Alan Boesch, Venkatapathi Raju Nallapa
  • Patent number: 8600644
    Abstract: A sensor reset system includes an engine control module and a sensor reset circuit. The engine control module is configured to receive a sensor pressure signal from a cylinder pressure sensor. The sensor pressure signal indicates a pressure within a cylinder of an engine. The engine control module is further configured to: control operation of the engine based on the sensor pressure signal; determine whether to reset the cylinder pressure sensor and generate a reset signal; and encode the reset signal to generate an encoded reset signal. The sensor reset circuit is configured to adjust an output of the cylinder pressure sensor based on the encoded reset signal to reset the cylinder pressure sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Inventors: Douglas R. Verner, Kenneth J. Buslepp
  • Patent number: 8594907
    Abstract: A method to control an internal combustion engine includes operating the engine with a fuel blend of a first fuel and a second fuel, monitoring a value of a first combustion parameter during engine operation, monitoring a first value for a second combustion parameter during engine operation, determining a second value for the second combustion parameter in accordance with a predetermined correspondence among the first combustion parameter, the second combustion parameter, and a predetermined fuel blend of the first fuel and the second fuel, determining the fuel blend based upon a difference between the first and second values for the second combustion parameter, and controlling the engine based upon the fuel blend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Yue-Yun Wang, Ibrahim Haskara
  • Patent number: 8594913
    Abstract: A method and a device for determining, ascertaining and predicting at least one starting torque or starting torque characteristic curve required for starting an internal combustion engine for a vehicle, especially a hybrid vehicle having at least one internal combustion engine and at least one additional motor. The determination and the ascertainment of the starting torque or the starting torque characteristic curve are carried out during the operation of the vehicle. A method for operating at least one motor in a hybrid vehicle is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Steuernagel
  • Patent number: 8594904
    Abstract: A control system for an engine includes an engine torque request module, an engine torque response module, a torque command limit module, and an actuation module. The engine torque request module determines an engine torque request based on (i) an engine power request and (ii) a desired engine speed (DRPM). The engine torque response module determines first and second torque values based on (i) an engine torque response model and (ii) first and second torque boundaries, wherein the first and second torque boundaries are based on the DRPM and a measured engine speed (RPM). The torque command limit module generates a secured engine torque request based on (i) the engine torque request and (ii) the first and second torque values. The actuation module controls at least one actuator of the engine based on the secured engine torque request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Livshiz, Jeffrey M. Kaiser, Richard B. Jess, Michael J. Pitsch, Michael L. Waterman, Pahngroc Oh
  • Publication number: 20130311068
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for reducing turbo lag by directing intake air from an intake manifold to an exhaust manifold. The intake air may be directed via an EGR passage by opening an EGR valve or by may be directed via engine cylinders by increasing positive valve overlap. Amounts of air directed via external EGR and air directed via positive valve overlap are based on engine operating conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: John Eric Rollinger, Adam J. Richards, Robert Andrew Wade, David Bell
  • Publication number: 20130311061
    Abstract: An ECU executes a program including a step of prohibiting idle priority control if automatic stop control of an engine is prohibited and a step of permitting the idle priority control if the automatic stop control of the engine is not prohibited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Daigo Ando
  • Patent number: 8589051
    Abstract: An ECU includes: an engine control unit that controls devices provided for an engine on the basis of a target engine rotational speed; and an engine model that calculates the target engine rotational speed such that the target engine rotational speed varies in accordance with a target engine torque and an actual engine rotational speed in a steady state, and that calculates the target engine rotational speed such that the target engine rotational speed varies in accordance with the target engine torque independently of the actual engine rotational speed in a transient state in which the engine is unstable as compared with the steady state. When the engine is controlled by the thus configured ECU, the control accuracy is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Seiji Kuwahara, Masato Kaigawa, Toshiya Oishi, Shogo Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 8588999
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for improving a balance between engine fuel economy and exhaust emissions in an off-highway vehicle. One example method includes adjusting an engine injection timing based on an ambient NOx level estimated by a NOx sensor in the engine intake. Another example method includes adjusting a trip plan with a time in notch duty cycle based on a deviation from the time in notch duty cycle from a reference duty cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Edward Joseph Hall, Kyle Stott, Ajith Kuttannair Kumar, James Robert Mischler, Christopher Mcnally, Jason Dean
  • Patent number: 8589052
    Abstract: A control system for a vehicle that is equipped with an internal combustion engine and a generator driven by the internal combustion engine to generate electric power and that is able to supply an external device with electric power generated by the generator during a stop of the vehicle includes: a detecting unit that detects a coolant temperature of the internal combustion engine; and an efficiency control unit that controls the internal combustion engine so that, during a stop of the vehicle, an operating state of the internal combustion engine approaches an operating state where an efficiency of the internal combustion engine becomes a predetermined efficiency as a difference between the coolant temperature and a predetermined upper limit temperature increases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kuniaki Niimi
  • Publication number: 20130304354
    Abstract: A method for regulating the power delivered by a reciprocating engine includes the definition of the value of a constant time interval T1 and the values of a threshold for the engine rpm and of a threshold for the percentage opening of the engine throttle valve, below which an operating area is defined in the Cartesian graph xy whose axes represent the engine rpm and the percentage opening of the throttle valve TPS. The method also includes: measuring, for each engine cycle, the value of the engine RPM at the level of an angular position of the crankshaft in a specific stroke (IS, PS); calculating, at the final instant (A) of each time interval T1, an activation value X* obtained from a comparison between the last RPM value measured before the final instant (A) and the last RPM value measured before the initial instant (B) of the time interval T1.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: ATHENA S.P.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Pascoli, Enrico Eger
  • Publication number: 20130304353
    Abstract: A method for operating an internal combustion engine is described. The internal combustion engine includes a high-pressure accumulator (13) and a low-pressure area (8). The high-pressure accumulator (13) and the low-pressure area (8) are connected via a pressure control valve (10). According to the method, an open position of the pressure control valve (10) is a function of a control pressure. A negative load change of the internal combustion engine is detected. The control pressure is reduced at a point in time from a starting level to a low level as a function of the detection of a negative load change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Markus Viereck
  • Publication number: 20130304352
    Abstract: An on-board diagnostic system for detecting malfunction conditions in a hydraulic valve train of a MultiAir™ engine. The system comprises a plurality of pressure sensors for generating pressure signals located in a hydraulic circuit of the hydraulic valve train; and an engine control module for performing a waveform analysis of the pressure signals to detect malfunction conditions in the hydraulic valve train. The engine control module performs a frequency and/or time delay waveform analysis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Glen R. Macfarlane, Peter G. Hartman
  • Patent number: 8583345
    Abstract: A control chip for providing the basic functionality of a control unit includes a voltage supply having at least two, in particular three, output voltages; at least two, in particular three, sensor power supplies, in particular having 5-V and/or 3.3-V output voltage; at least one driver for bidirectional interfaces; a CAN driver; a follower control; a main relay output stage having a diagnostic function; at least one bidirectional serial interface for controlling the output stages and for communicating with a microcontroller; at least six power output stages, in particular having rated currents of 0.6 A to 3 A; at least one low-level signal output, in particular having a rated current of 50 mA, and four ignition drivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Immanuel Krauter, Uwe Guenther, Manfred Kirschner, Beate Leibbrand
  • Patent number: 8583344
    Abstract: A method for controlling glow plugs associated with respective cylinders of a Diesel engine, which includes, but is not limited to the steps of storing data indicative of the activation sequence of the cylinders and activating sequentially each glow plug according to the stored activation sequence of the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Stefano Cassani
  • Publication number: 20130297178
    Abstract: It is proposed a method for detecting a presence of a leak in a fuel system mounted on board of a vehicle. The method is such that it comprises the steps of: a) obtaining (S1,S6) temperatures and pressures in the fuel system at a first time and at a second later time; b) calculating (S8) a pressure expected in the fuel system at the second time, on the basis of at least one of the temperatures and pressures obtained at the first and second times, and a coefficient that represents the natural evolution of pressure in the fuel system over time; c) detecting (S9) a leak by comparing the calculated expected pressure and the pressure obtained at the second time to at least one predetermined threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYS. RESEARCH (SOCIETE ANONYME)
    Inventors: David Hill, Bjorn Criel, Antoine Chaussinand
  • Publication number: 20130291818
    Abstract: A laser spark plug for an internal combustion engine has a laser device including a plurality of surface emitting semiconductor lasers for generating laser pulses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventors: Rene Hartke, Heiko Ridderbusch
  • Publication number: 20130297179
    Abstract: A method for monitoring the signal value of a vacuum sensor of a vacuum system in a vehicle, wherein a vacuum generator and a brake booster are provided in the vacuum system, an upper error threshold (?p_vac_errorthreshold) is calculated as a function of the operating states of the vacuum generator and of the brake booster, and wherein an error is identified when the signal value of the vacuum sensor exceeds the current value of the error threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Steffen Gruber, Thomas Peichl, Scott F. Ross, Thorsten Ullrich
  • Publication number: 20130297177
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for diagnosing the leak of a fuel tank are disclosed. The leak of the fuel tank is immediately diagnosed when a vehicle is stopped by controlling the pressure of the fuel tank during the driving of the vehicle. Even if negative pressure is not formed when the vehicle is stopped, or the diagnosis rate of the fuel tank has to be increased, the leak of the fuel tank is able to be easily diagnosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH
    Inventors: Han Cin Kim, Yong Joon Son
  • Publication number: 20130297180
    Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine, a first MG (motor generator), a second MG, a motive power split device, and an ECU. ECU temporarily determines whether or not an imbalance abnormality has occurred based on an air-fuel ratio, and when it is temporarily determined that the imbalance abnormality is present, controls the engine such that the engine is in an idle state and formally determines whether or not the imbalance abnormality has occurred based on fluctuations in engine rotation speed. During a stop at idle, ECU determines whether or not the formal determination process of the imbalance determination is ongoing and carries out pressing control to cause the first MG to generate pressing torque Tp when the formal determination process is not ongoing and does not carry out the pressing control so as not to cause the first MG to generate pressing torque Tp when the formal determination process is ongoing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Daigo Ando, Takuji Matsubara, Takahiro Nishigaki
  • Publication number: 20130297124
    Abstract: Methods for operating a vehicle as the vehicle approaches an intersection with a traffic control device are provided herein. One example method includes detecting a traffic control device at an intersection the vehicle is approaching, and releasing and applying a disconnect clutch arranged in a driveline of the vehicle intermediate an engine and a starter/generator based on a type of the detected traffic control device. Because releasing the disconnect clutch disconnects the engine from the vehicle driveline, the engine may be turned off to increase fuel efficiency while the disconnect clutch is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Tuan Anh Be, William Najib Mansur, Mark Douglas Malone, Leonid Tikh
  • Publication number: 20130297176
    Abstract: An approach to tracking the engine off time of a system including an internal combustion engine. A timer apparatus may electrically couple to the engine control unit by way of a power connection that provides electrical power to the timer apparatus from the engine control unit. The timer apparatus may include a monitor module that monitors the power connection. A timer module may begin a time interval in response to the power connection transitioning from a powered state to an unpowered state. The timer module may end the time interval in response to the power connection transitioning from the unpowered state to the powered state. A communication module may communicate the time interval to the engine control unit by switching the power connection between the high state and the low state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: CUMMINS IP, INC
    Inventors: Clayton M. Howell, William D. Meyer
  • Patent number: 8577580
    Abstract: Disclosed is an internal combustion engine control device that is capable of accurately estimating a turbine flow rate during a transient operation of an internal combustion engine with a turbocharger having a WGV. Steps are performed to acquire an exhaust gas flow rate mcyl (=mB), a WGV opening WG (=X), and a turbine rotation speed Ntb (=Na) during the transient operation of the internal combustion engine. Steps are then performed to calculate the turbine flow rate (=mtA) and exhaust gas flow rate mcyl (=mA), which prevail when the turbine rotation speed Ntb and WGV opening WG acquired during the transient operation are achieved during a steady operation. Next, a step is performed to calculate the turbine flow rate (=mtB) during the transient operation by applying the flow rate ratio of mtA to mA to the exhaust gas flow rate mcyl during the transient operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Eiraku
  • Patent number: 8577582
    Abstract: An ISG entry apparatus and method is capable of operating ISG logic without employing a battery sensor. The ISG entry apparatus includes a starting voltage detection unit detecting a starting voltage of an ISG vehicle having no battery sensor mounted therein, a cooling water detection unit detecting a cooling water temperature of the ISG vehicle, an ISG entry frequency detection unit detecting an ISG entry frequency of the ISG vehicle, an accumulated charge amount detection unit detecting an accumulated charge amount of the ISG vehicle during driving, a starting number counting unit counting the starting number of the ISG vehicle, and an engine control unit determining whether or not to enter a mode in which an ISG operation is performed based on the starting voltage, the cooling water temperature, the ISG entry frequency, the accumulated charge amount, and the starting number and performing an ISG operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Jiyong Yu, Sejun Kim, Chongah Gwon, Sungjin Park, Junghwan Bang
  • Patent number: 8577527
    Abstract: A drive control device which estimates an engine torque during traveling in a fixed gear ratio mode is disclosed. The drive control device includes the engagement mechanism including the revolution component revolved by the torque of the engine and the fixed component that engages with the revolution component, the torque applying unit which applies torque to the revolution component and the first transmitting control unit which engages the engagement mechanism to make the engagement mechanism receive the reaction force of the torque. The torque estimating control unit executes control of torque applied to the revolution component by the torque applying unit during executing the control by the first transmitting control unit to detect the phase change between the revolution component and the fixed component and estimates the torque of the engine based on the phase change and torque applied by the torque applying unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Mitsumasa Fukumura, Shoichi Sasaki
  • Patent number: 8577541
    Abstract: A particulate filter ash loading prediction method including the steps of determining a service age for the particulate filter; calculating an ash accumulation rate in the particulate filter; determining a maximum service age for the particulate filter dependent upon the ash accumulation rate; and comparing the service age to the maximum service age. If the service age exceeds the maximum service age then indicating that a service and/or replacement of the particulate filter is needed due to ash loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Ryan Nevin, Antonio Triana, Danan Dou, Taner Tuken
  • Publication number: 20130289847
    Abstract: Methods and systems for real-time engine load control (RTLC) for electronically controlled engines in a transport refrigeration system (TRS) are provided. In particular, a RTLC system is provided to control an electronically controlled engine for the TRS in order to maximize temperature control of the TRS, while preventing engine shut down due to a TRS load demand that exceeds the engine's horsepower output capability. The RTLC system includes an engine control unit (ECU) connected to a TRS controller. TRS controller includes an ECU data processing component, a load control component, an ETV control component, a TRS load demand component and a temperature control and TRS protection component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicant: THERMO KING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Omosola Waidi Olaleye, Alan Gustafson
  • Publication number: 20130282255
    Abstract: Embodiments for detecting crankcase breach are provided. In one example, a method includes indicating both crankcase ventilation system degradation and a crankcase oil sump level based on a common crankcase sensor. In this way, the same sensor can provide both crankcase breach detection and oil level determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Publication number: 20130282258
    Abstract: A method which generates downforce in a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine, based on feeding exhaust gas from the internal combustion engine into at least one area of the vehicle body suitable for increasing downforce.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: AVL LIST GMBH
    Inventor: Peter Schoeggl
  • Publication number: 20130276738
    Abstract: A laser spark plug for an internal combustion engine having a laser device, which includes a laser-active solid and a passive Q-switch, and having a pumped light source, which is configured to generate pumped radiation and to irradiate it onto the laser device. The pumped light source has a plurality of individual pumped light emitters at least two pumped light emitters each being activatable separately from one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Rene Hartke
  • Publication number: 20130282257
    Abstract: A method for controlling an internal-combustion engine comprises steps of: determining a current value of a driving torque requested to the internal-combustion engine and a first time derivative of the current value of the driving torque; comparing the current value of the driving torque and first time derivative with first and second threshold values, respectively; determining a “sports driving” condition only if the current value of the driving torque is higher than the first threshold value and the first time derivative is higher than the second threshold value; and controlling the internal-combustion engine as a function of the “sports driving” condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Magneti Marelli S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Panciroli
  • Publication number: 20130282256
    Abstract: Provided is a control device for an internal combustion engine, capable of controlling acceleration-response characteristics, performing an operation at an optimal fuel-efficiency point, and learning variation factors in an internal combustion engine provided with a supercharger including a wastegate valve. A target throttle-valve upstream pressure is calculated based on a target charging efficiency and a rotation speed. An exhaust-gas flow rate is calculated based on an air/fuel ratio and an intake-airflow rate. A target compressor driving force is calculated based on a target intake-airflow rate and a target throttle-valve upstream pressure. A wastegate-valve control value is calculated from the exhaust-gas flow rate and the target compressor driving force by using the relationship in which the relation expression expressing the characteristics of the exhaust-gas flow rate and the target compressor driving force depends only on the wastegate-valve control value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takuo WATANUKI, Hideki HAGARI
  • Patent number: 8566002
    Abstract: A system includes a power request module, a first desired engine speed (DRPM) determination module, a driver torque request module, and an actuation module. The power request module generates a power request for an engine of the vehicle based on an accelerator pedal position and a vehicle speed. The first DRPM determination module determines a first target DRPM based on the power request, a turbine speed of a torque converter, and a k-factor of the torque converter. The driver torque request module selectively generates a torque request for the engine based on the power request and the first target DRPM. The actuation module controls at least one engine actuator based on the torque request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Livshiz, Jeffrey M. Kaiser, Michael J. Pitsch, Michael L. Waterman, Pahngroc Oh
  • Patent number: 8565962
    Abstract: A rewriting system comprises a plurality of electronic control units mounted on a vehicle, each of the plurality of electronic control units including a storage for storing control information, and a device for sending new control information to rewrite the control information stored in the storages of the plurality of electronic control units with the new control information. One of the plurality of electronic control units is configured to make a determination whether the rewriting in the other electronic control units has been completed in response to a completion of the rewriting in the one of the plurality of electronic control units, and make a notification of a result of the determination. Thus, the progress of the rewriting for a plurality of control units is automatically determined and notified to a user. The user can immediately recognize the progress of the rewriting work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takuya Yoshiyama
  • Patent number: 8566003
    Abstract: A vehicle generation controlling system for saving fuel includes a battery supplying power to electric components of a vehicle, a generator generating power by using rotational force of an engine and supplying the generated power to the battery and the electric components, and an ECU determining whether generation control is prevented by monitoring vehicle information on the vehicle and operational information on an operation of an electric product of a cooling system among the electric components and controlling the generator to prevent the generation control according to the determination. As a result, the generation control is performed based on whether an electric product of a cooling system is actuated and vehicle information on the vehicle to thereby prevent cooling performance from being deteriorated due to the generation control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Daekwang Kim, Minyoung Jung, Jiyong Yu, Junyong Lee, Chikung Ahn, Hyungjun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130275022
    Abstract: An engine control module and method configured to correct an engine crank sensor signal for errors in an apparent location of a tooth edge on a crank wheel is provided. A correction factor is determined based on a first formula if a comparison of adjacent pulse intervals to predetermined thresholds indicates that a tooth edge appears to be abnormally late, and determined based on a second formula if a comparison of adjacent pulse intervals to other predetermined thresholds indicates that a tooth edge appears to be abnormally The correction factor is set to a null value if the correction factor is not determined based on the first formula or the second formula; and operating an engine based on the correction factor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: SALEM AHMAD FAYYAD, ANDY TENKA, KENNETH M SIMPSON, JON C. DARROW, MICHAEL J. FREY
  • Publication number: 20130275024
    Abstract: Variations in the air-fuel ratio among cylinders are specified as one cause of deterioration in exhaust emissions however the size of the variations in the air-fuel ratio among cylinders detected by the catalyst upstream sensor does not always match the margin of deterioration in exhaust emissions. The objective of the present invention is to detect the deterioration in the exhaust emissions caused due to variations in the air-fuel ratio among cylinders. Deterioration in exhaust emissions due to variations in the air-fuel ratio among engine cylinders is detected based on a means to calculate a specified frequency component A of the catalyst upstream sensor signal; a means to calculate a specified frequency component B of the catalyst downstream sensor signal; and the frequency component A and the frequency component B.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Shinji Nakagawa, Akihito Numata, Eisaku Fukuchi
  • Publication number: 20130275023
    Abstract: A variable power drive mode system for a vehicle. The system includes a pedal, a processor, an engine or other vehicle power source for moving the vehicle and a battery. The processor of the vehicle determines, either automatically or based upon user input, a desired drive mode for the vehicle. A memory connected with the processor stores different data corresponding to the different drive modes determinable by the processor for the vehicle. The processor uses the different data stored in memory in combination with a position of the pedal to control the engine or other vehicle power source to generate power in accordance with the determined drive mode. Certain drive modes may provide for more aggressive driving profiles at the expense of fuel efficiency or fuel consumption when compared to other drive modes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Gregg, Hidetoshi Kusumi