Purge Valve Controlled By Engine Parameter Patents (Class 123/520)
  • Patent number: 9388775
    Abstract: Methods and systems are described for depressurizing a fuel tank prior to refueling. In one example, before refueling the fuel tank having a pressure above a first predetermined pressure, the pressure may be released through a first valve to the first predetermined pressure and the first valve may be closed. Further, a second valve may be opened to further reduce the pressure to a second predetermined pressure, and if flow through the second valve is less than desired, then the first valve may be opened until the second predetermined pressure is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Bryan Michael Bolger, Michael Paul Lindlbauer, Mark W. Peters
  • Patent number: 9382824
    Abstract: An engine includes a EGR valve to regulate a EGR flow rate. A blow-by gas recirculation passage allows blow-by gas generated in the engine to flow in a surge tank to return to the engine. A PCV valve operates in response to negative pressure to regulate a blow-by gas flow rate in the recirculation passage. During deceleration fuel cutoff of the engine, an ECU holds a throttle valve at a predetermined slight opening degree and controls the EGR valve to be forcibly opened from a valve-closed state to change intake pressure (negative pressure) in the surge tank and determines whether or not the PCV valve is in sticking failure based on changes in intake amount detected by an air flow meter before and after the negative pressure changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: AISAN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Mamoru Yoshioka
  • Patent number: 9381456
    Abstract: A filter device has a filter element arranged in a filter housing. The filter device has additionally an adsorber element that adsorbs hydrocarbons. The adsorber element is arranged in a separate adsorber housing connected to the filter housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: MANN+HUMMEL GMBH
    Inventors: Timo Dirnberger, Juergen Stahl, Ralf Dietz
  • Patent number: 9371793
    Abstract: A method for operating a fuel vapor recirculation system in a motor vehicle having a fuel tank. In the method, in the operating strategy of the fuel vapor recirculation system, predictive route data of the motor vehicle are taken into account.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas Blumenstock, Andreas Pape
  • Patent number: 9360213
    Abstract: A valve leak detecting method includes a started pressure setting step for opening and closing valves individually to set a pressure in a pipe, a first threshold value evaluating step for closing the valves, after the pressure being set to no less than the threshold value, and evaluating whether the pressure, after a specific time interval has elapsed, is at least threshold value, a second valve normalcy evaluating step for evaluating that one of the valves is operating properly or faultily if the pressure is at least or less than the threshold value, respectively, a second threshold value evaluating step for closing the valves and evaluating whether the pressure is less than the threshold value after a specific time interval has elapsed, and a first valve normalcy evaluating step for evaluating whether the valve is operating properly depending on the pressure being less or no less than the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: AZBIL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeki Ishii, Satoru Yamagishi, Yuuichi Kumazawa
  • Patent number: 9360125
    Abstract: An integrated valve assembly, which integrates two check valves and a solenoid assembly which functions as a purge valve. When the solenoid assembly is in an open position, during a first mode of operation, vacuum pressure places the first check valve in an open position and the second check valve in a closed position, and during a second mode of operation, pressurized air places the first check valve in a closed position, and vacuum pressure generated by a venturi valve member places the second check valve in an open position. Each check valve utilizes a nylon insert along with an over molded rubber seal. The design of the check valves prevents actuation at low vacuums and flows when the vehicle is shut off. The integrated valve assembly eliminates the need for an OBD relief valve, and simplifies the EVAP system, saving costs, complexity, and eliminates several possible leak connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Douglas Jefford, John Nelson Lloyd
  • Patent number: 9341538
    Abstract: A evaporated fuel processing device includes a seal valve that seals off the fuel tank from the atmosphere, a canister, a changeover valve that allows or inhibits communication of the canister with the atmosphere, the canister internal pressure sensor, a controller that sends an open/close command to the seal valve and the changeover valve, a diagnosis unit that performs leak diagnosis of an evaporated fuel sealing system, and a negative pressure pump that generates pressure in the evaporated fuel sealing system. The diagnosis unit performs leak diagnosis of the entirety of the evaporated fuel sealing system before performing leak diagnosis of a canister side section. The diagnosis unit performs function diagnosis of the seal valve with the seal valve closed and the changeover valve at a shut-off position based on whether the detection value of the tank internal pressure sensor varies beyond a predetermined range of the generated pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Ayumu Horiba
  • Patent number: 9334843
    Abstract: A temperature of a heated component is determined for control and monitoring. The heater driver, upon receipt of a turn-on signal, generates a current within a component of a heated fuel injector, wherein the current through the component generates an appropriate loss to generate heat for a variable spray fuel injection system. The heater driver regulates the energy to the heated component based on the electrical resistance of that component as a function of temperature and a predetermined reference value for that temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, INC.
    Inventors: Perry Robert Czimmek, Michael Joseph Hornby, Douglas Edward Cosby
  • Patent number: 9328702
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for engine systems including a vacuum-powered multiple tap aspirator coupled between atmospheric, an engine crankcase, or another source and a vacuum source such as a compressor inlet or engine intake manifold. The multiple tap aspirator includes a suction tap arranged in a throat of the aspirator, a suction tap arranged in a diverging cone of the aspirator, and a suction tap arranged in a straight exit tube downstream of the diverging cone of the aspirator. The aspirator provides vacuum generation and suction flow over a range of vacuum levels at the suction taps, and suction flow only passes through a single check valve before entering the aspirator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ross Dykstra Pursifull, Brad Alan VanDerWege
  • Patent number: 9322342
    Abstract: Methods and systems for fuel system leak detection in a hybrid electric vehicle using a fuel reservoir are disclosed. In one example approach, a method comprises, during an engine off condition, delivering fuel from a fuel tank into a reservoir while the fuel tank is vented to atmosphere, discontinuing delivering fuel into the reservoir, sealing the fuel tank from atmosphere, and following the sealing, indicating a leak based on a pressure increase in the fuel tank from a pressure when sealed from venting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Aed M. Dudar, Mark W. Peters, Dennis Seung-Man Yang
  • Patent number: 9316182
    Abstract: A method for diagnosing a tank venting valve. This includes measuring a first pressure p1 in the induction pipe of an internal combustion engine; activating the tank venting valve so as to open; measuring a second pressure p2 in the induction pipe of the internal combustion engine after the opening activation of the tank venting valve; calculating a control value K by subtracting the first induction pipe pressure p1 from a second induction pipe pressure p2 and adding a correction pressure pK, which is calculated from the leakage air adaptation of an internal combustion engine; and detecting A defect of the tank venting valve, when the control value K falls below a threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Stefan Salomon, Uwe Nusser
  • Patent number: 9303600
    Abstract: A fuel vapor leakage detection device performs a fuel vapor leakage detection method to detect a clogging of passages in an evaporated fuel processing system by (i) switching a switching valve after measuring a first reference pressure, (ii) determining whether a detected pressure equals atmospheric pressure after opening a purge valve, (iii) recording the detected pressure after closing the purge valve, and (iv) switching the switching valve to depressurize an atmospheric system and to determine whether a current detection value of the pressure sensor is the same as the first reference pressure. Then, a second reference pressure is measured for comparison with the first reference pressure, to determine whether the evaporation system is clogged. In such manner, leakage and the clogging of the passages in an evaporated fuel processing system may be detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yasuo Kato
  • Patent number: 9291128
    Abstract: A method for detecting evaporative emissions system leaks, comprising: adjusting a leak detection threshold based on a vehicle geographical location including jurisdiction borders; and indicating a leak based on the adjusted threshold. In this way, a vehicle may perform OBD EVAP leak tests in accordance with local regulations. This method allows for a single PCM to be installed in all vehicles of a certain model during manufacturing regardless of the jurisdiction where the vehicle will be sold, thereby reducing part complexity and simplifying the manufacturing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Aed M. Dudar
  • Patent number: 9269977
    Abstract: Improved portable power sources such as batteries, fuel cells, power generators and the like can include structure or apparatus that are adapted to provide an indication of the power capacity remaining within the portable power source. In some cases, these power sources may be configured to accommodate remote communication regarding their remaining power capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Eickhoff, Chunbo Zhang
  • Patent number: 9261432
    Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting barometric pressure (BP) changes based on tire pressure changes are disclosed. In one example approach, a method comprises adjusting an evaporative leak detection threshold based on a change in barometric pressure, where the change in barometric pressure is based on a tire pressure change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Aed M. Dudar
  • Patent number: 9261055
    Abstract: A tank passage communicates a canister housing with a fuel tank. A purge passage communicates the canister housing with an intake air system. An atmospheric air passage communicates the canister housing with an atmosphere. A valve housing accommodating a valve element is located in a recessed portion defined with a first inner wall and a second inner wall. A seal member is located on a radially outside of the valve housing to seal the recessed portion. The first inner wall has a first opening to communicate the canister housing with the recessed portion. The second inner wall has a second opening to communicate the recessed portion with the atmospheric air passage. The first opening or the second opening is defined around a valve seat. The valve element is seated on and lifted from the valve seat to control communication between the canister housing and the atmospheric air passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Koji Tsumoto, Yasuo Kato
  • Patent number: 9255553
    Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting a leak in a canister purge valve are disclosed. In one example approach, a method comprises indicating a leak in response to a temperature change in a fuel vapor canister coupled to a fuel tank in an emission control system while the engine is in operation and a purge valve is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Aed M. Dudar, Dennis Seung-Man Yang
  • Patent number: 9243595
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a multi-path purging ejector are disclosed. In one example approach, a dual path purge system for an engine comprises an ejector including a restriction, first and second inlets, and an outlet, at least one break-point at the restriction or inlets, and a shut-off valve coupled to the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: William Euliss, Kevin William Plymale
  • Patent number: 9239033
    Abstract: An ECU controls a selector valve so as to connect a first pump passage and a second pump passage, and determines whether a fuel vapor leak from a fuel tank is in an allowable range based on a pressure in the fuel tank which is detected by a pressure sensor while a pump is driven to decrease a pressure in the fuel tank. The ECU opens a purge valve, whereby the fuel vapor adsorbed by a canister is introduce into an engine through an intake passage. The ECU controls the selector valve to connect a first pump passage and the second pump passage so as to circulate an atmospheric air in the pump while the purge valve is opened to introduce the fuel vapor into the internal combustion engine, whereby a foreign matter in the pump can be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeru Hasegawa, Tomohiro Itoh, Kosei Takagi, Makoto Kaneko
  • Patent number: 9228541
    Abstract: Systems and methods for operating an engine with a fuel vapor recovery system are disclosed. In one example approach, a method comprises, during a diurnal condition, providing a first amount of venting to a fuel vapor canister, and during a purge condition, providing a second amount of venting to the fuel vapor canister, where the second amount is greater than the first amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Pifher, Mark W. Peters
  • Patent number: 9222446
    Abstract: An evaporative emission control system for a fuel tank of a vehicle includes a diurnal control module coupled to a vapor exhaust line running between the fuel tank and an activated carbon canister. A purge line is coupled to the canister and is open to atmospheric pressure. The purge line includes a breathing loss accumulator that collects fuel vapors expelled from the canister during diurnal thermal expansion. The diurnal control module closes fluid communication between the fuel tank and the canister when the fuel tank is not being refueled to maintain the fuel tank in a pressurized condition and the canister in a non-pressurized condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Sam R. Reddy
  • Patent number: 9216646
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for accurately confirming fuel tank depressurization before unlocking a fuel door to enable refueling. Following a refueling request, a fuel system may be sealed from the atmosphere while one or more fuel system valves are adjusted to divert fuel tank pressure or vacuum to an engine intake. Depressurization may be inferred based on the presence of air or vapor flow into the intake as sensed by a manifold airflow sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis Seung-Man Yang, Aed M. Dudar
  • Patent number: 9217397
    Abstract: A method for verifying the reliable operation of a fuel tank pressure transducer positioned within a fuel tank of a PHEV. The method detects the initiation of a refueling cycle, which leads to opening a system vent valve positioned between a carbon canister and a system vent, and opening a fuel tank isolation valve. A controller monitors fuel system pressure within the fuel tank and at the vent valve, and that device determines rates of change of the fuel system pressure within the fuel tank and at the outlet vent. Reliable operation of the fuel tank pressure transducer is indicated upon a determination that the rates of change of the fuel system pressure in the fuel tank and at the outlet vent are uniform within a predetermined range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Mark W Peters, Robert Roy Jentz, Aed M Dudar, Roman Schesnuk, Jack Marshall
  • Patent number: 9212633
    Abstract: A device for selectively regenerating and performing tank leakage diagnosis of a tank ventilation system has a sorption filter and a pump. The sorption filter is configured to temporarily store fuel evaporating from a fuel tank. The pump is arranged at a fresh-air side of the sorption filter and is connected in fluid-conducting fashion to the sorption filter. The pump is configured to generate a fluid flow to regenerate the sorption filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Silke Haag, Helmut Denz, Andreas Pape, Manfred Franz
  • Patent number: 9206771
    Abstract: A canister purge valve for a vehicle includes a valve member constructed and arranged to control vapor purge flow from a fuel tank and canister structure to an air intake manifold. A modular body is removably coupled to a housing of the valve member. The body defines an internal volume in communication with the valve member to receive vapor purge flow. The body includes at least one outlet port. A check valve is disposed in the body and is associated with the at least one outlet port so that under certain conditions, the check valve permits vapor purge flow to flow from the volume through the outlet port and, under different conditions, prevents flow into the volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Dominick Manton Williams
  • Patent number: 9188090
    Abstract: Systems and methods for operating an engine with a fuel vapor recovery system are disclosed. In one example approach, a method for an engine with a fuel vapor recovery system including a multi-tubular fuel vapor canister comprises directing air through a first set of adsorbent passages in the fuel vapor canister to purge fuel vapor therefrom while not directing air through a second set of adsorbent passages in the fuel vapor canister; and directing air through the second set of adsorbent passages to purge fuel vapor therefrom while not directing air through the first set of adsorbent passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Russell R. Pearce, Dennis Seung-Man Yang, Robert G. Ognjanovski
  • Patent number: 9188087
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for computing the flow rate at a suction port of an ejector arranged in series with an outlet of an engine system such as a fuel vapor purge system during certain conditions. In one example, the need for a sensor at an ejector suction port may be reduced by adjusting exhaust gas recirculation based on a flow rate at the ejector suction port, the flow rate based on a flow characteristic of the ejector and a flow characteristic of an engine system. The flow rate and a reductant concentration of gases from the engine system may then be used as a basis for compensation of a diluent concentration measurement taken by a gas constituent sensor arranged downstream of the ejector outlet in an engine intake passage, e.g. to improve adjustment of exhaust gas recirculation based on the compensated diluent concentration measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Gopichandra Surnilla, Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 9163590
    Abstract: A first purge passage is connected to an intake-air passage at a downstream side of a throttle valve. A second purge passage is connected to the intake-air passage at an upstream side of a supercharging device. A first and a second check valve are respectively provided in the first and second purge passages. A control unit determines to which operating condition (from a first to a third operating condition) engine operation corresponds, based on downstream-side and upstream-side pressure of the throttle valve. A change of in-tank pressure of a fuel tank is detected in a condition that an air-communication valve is closed but a purge control valve is opened. The control unit diagnoses which of the valves is not normally operated and whether such valve is fixed to a valve opened or a valve closed position, based on the change of in-tank pressure for each of engine operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroaki Takeishi, Hiroshi Katsurahara, Mitsuyuki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 9163591
    Abstract: In a method for operating a fuel system of an internal combustion engine, the fuel system has a fuel tank and a ventilation device for ventilating the fuel tank which has at least one ventilation valve. In a first operating mode the ventilation valve is adjusted for ventilating the fuel tank based exclusively on a temperature and/or the ventilation occurs over a defined period of time when the internal combustion engine is deactivated. The invention further relates to a fuel system of an internal combustion engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventor: Harald Hagen
  • Patent number: 9151251
    Abstract: A leakage judgment with respect to a fuel tank is carried out. If the fuel tank is not leaking, a leakage judgment with respect to a canister is carried out. If there is a possibility of leakage in the fuel tank, a leakage judgment with respect to the fuel tank and the canister is carried out. If it is judged that there is leakage in the fuel tank and the canister, the leakage judgment with respect to the canister is carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI JIDOSHA KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hideo Matsunaga, Hitoshi Kamura, Noriaki Kinoshita, Hisakazu Ikedaya
  • Patent number: 9145824
    Abstract: An engine system having a compressor coupled to an engine and supplying air to an intake manifold, a throttle controlling the supply of air from the compressor to the intake manifold, a vacuum reservoir, an aspirator having its motive section in fluid communication with the air intake system upstream of the compressor and its discharge section in fluid communication downstream of the compressor and a suction port in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir, a compressor recirculation valve having a pneumatic control chamber in fluid communication with downstream air from the compressor and in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir, a gate valve controlling the fluid communication of the pneumatic control chamber of the compressor recirculation valve with the downstream air and the vacuum reservoir, and a bleed line having a bleed valve in fluid communication with the vacuum reservoir and the pneumatic control chamber of the compressor recirculation valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: DAYCO IP HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Dave Fletcher, Brian M. Graichen, Keith Hampton, Matt Gilmer, James H. Miller, Steve Long
  • Patent number: 9140219
    Abstract: A canister absorbs evaporated fuel produced in a fuel tank and supplies the absorbed evaporated fuel to an engine. A sealing valve is equipped between the fuel tank and the canister. A detection unit detects a state of a lid of the fuel tank. An intention estimation unit estimates existence of a refueling intention according to an activity of a user. A release time period estimation unit estimates a release time period, which is needed to release a pressure in the fuel tank, according to a state of a vehicle. A manipulation control unit opens the sealing valve when the lid is opened. The manipulation control unit opens the sealing valve, even in a case where the lid is closed, on estimation that the refueling intention exists, and on determination that the estimated release time period is greater than a predetermined time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Senda, Hidetoshi Ooiwa
  • Patent number: 9133796
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a multi-path purging ejector are disclosed. In one example approach, a multi-path purge system for an engine comprises an ejector including a restriction, first and second inlets, and an outlet, and a shut-off valve hard-mounted to an intake of the engine and coupled to the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin William Plymale, Aed M. Dudar, Robert Roy Jentz, Scott A. Bohr, Mark W. Peters
  • Patent number: 9133852
    Abstract: An engine system having a compressor coupled to an engine and supplying air to an intake manifold, a throttle controlling the supply of air from the compressor to the intake manifold, a compressor recirculation valve (CRV) having a pneumatic control chamber, and a throttle aspirator having its motive section in fluid communication with an inlet of the throttle and its discharge section in fluid communication with an outlet of the throttle and its suction port in fluid communication with the pneumatic control chamber of the CRV. Such an engine system automatically minimizes surge during boost without a control system activating the CRV. Here, the CRV operates purely on the changes in pressure within the system forming a loop that resets itself. In another embodiment, a gate valve and a vacuum canister may be included rather than having the throttle aspirator directly connected to the CRV's pneumatic control chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: DAYCO IP HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Dave Fletcher, Brian M. Graichen, Keith Hampton, Matt Gilmer, James H. Miller, Steve Long
  • Patent number: 9115656
    Abstract: A control system for an internal combustion engine having a throttle valve disposed in an intake passage of the engine. A target intake air amount of the engine is calculated, and an intake pressure of the engine is estimated. A wide-open intake air amount is calculated according to the engine rotational speed, and a theoretical intake air amount is calculated according to the wide-open intake air amount and the intake pressure. The wide-open intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where the throttle valve is fully opened, and the theoretical intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where no exhaust gas of the engine is recirculated to a combustion chamber of the engine. further, an exhaust gas recirculation ratio is calculated using the theoretical intake air amount and the target intake air amount, and a target output torque of the engine is calculated using the target intake air amount and the exhaust gas recirculation ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yosuke Kosaka, Daisuke Shiomi, Jiro Takagi, Masaya Agata, Kentaro Onuma, Shinobu Ochiai
  • Patent number: 9115674
    Abstract: One aspect according to the present teachings includes a fuel vapor processing device including a housing having a first port for introduction of fuel vapor, a second port for introduction of negative pressure, and a third port communicating with an atmosphere. An adsorption material is disposed within the housing. In a desorption mode, fuel vapor desorbed by the adsorption material is desorbed from the adsorption material as air flows into the housing via the third port and flows out of the second port. A plurality of heaters are disposed within the housing and are arranged along a path of flow of air from the third port to the second port in the adsorption mode. A controller controls the heaters such that the heaters start to heat the adsorption material in order of the air flow direction from the third port to the second port. The controller preferably also terminates heating of the adsorption material in the same manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: AISAN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Katsuhiko Makino, Shota Yamanaka
  • Patent number: 9109549
    Abstract: An engine-driven generator that controls fuel vapor flow is provided. The engine-driven generator includes an engine having an air intake, wherein the engine is configured to drive a generator. The engine-driven generator also includes a fuel tank coupled to the engine and configured to provide fuel to the engine. The engine-driven generator includes a valve coupled between the air intake of the engine and the fuel tank. The engine-driven generator also includes a control device configured to transition the valve between a first position and a second position. The first position allows fuel vapor to flow between the fuel tank and the air intake of the engine and the second position inhibits the fuel vapor from flowing between the fuel tank and the air intake of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventors: John P. Laitala, Eric M. Kropp, Nathan J. Jochman
  • Patent number: 9109550
    Abstract: Methods and systems for fuel vapor canister purging in boosted engines are described. In one example, vapors are purged from the canister into an engine intake passage downstream of a throttle via an ejector during vacuum conditions, whereas during boost conditions, vapors are purged from the canister into an upstream inlet of a compressor via the ejector, the compressor arranged in the intake passage upstream of the throttle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David Kempf, Adam Nelligan, Brian Smith, Joseph Wesorick, Amar Shah
  • Patent number: 9109552
    Abstract: An integrated canister purge valve for a turbocharged vehicle engine includes a valve member having a housing and being constructed and arranged to control vapor purge flow from a fuel tank and canister structure to an air intake manifold. A body is coupled to the housing. The body defines an interior space. Structure separating the interior space into a first chamber and a second chamber isolated from the first chamber. The first chamber has an inlet port and an outlet port. A vacuum generator is provided in the first chamber and in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports. A first check valve is in the first chamber between the vacuum generator and the valve member and a second check valve is in the second chamber between the valve member and a manifold outlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin Dominick Manton Williams
  • Patent number: 9109528
    Abstract: A control system for an internal combustion engine having a throttle valve disposed in an intake passage of the engine. A target intake air amount of the engine is calculated, and an intake pressure of the engine is estimated. A wide-open intake air amount is calculated according to the engine rotational speed, and a theoretical intake air amount is calculated according to the wide-open intake air amount and the intake pressure. The wide-open intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where the throttle valve is fully opened, and the theoretical intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where no exhaust gas of the engine is recirculated to a combustion chamber of the engine. further, an exhaust gas recirculation ratio is calculated using the theoretical intake air amount and the target intake air amount, and a target output torque of the engine is calculated using the target intake air amount and the exhaust gas recirculation ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yosuke Kosaka, Daisuke Shiomi, Jiro Takagi, Masaya Agata, Kentaro Onuma, Shinobu Ochiai
  • Patent number: 9103302
    Abstract: A tubular flow path 18 of a first electromagnetic valve 10 and a tubular flow path 28 of a second electromagnetic valve 20 are inserted into a chamber 5 to communicate with a suction port 31 and a discharge port 32 to reduce a pulsating sound. The suction port 31 is arranged between the tubular flow paths 18 and 28 to reduce the air flow resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Masaji Takahashi, Takayuki Ito
  • Patent number: 9103291
    Abstract: A control system for an internal combustion engine having a throttle valve disposed in an intake passage of the engine. A target intake air amount of the engine is calculated, and an intake pressure of the engine is estimated. A wide-open intake air amount is calculated according to the engine rotational speed, and a theoretical intake air amount is calculated according to the wide-open intake air amount and the intake pressure. The wide-open intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where the throttle valve is fully opened, and the theoretical intake air amount is an intake air amount corresponding to a state where no exhaust gas of the engine is recirculated to a combustion chamber of the engine. further, an exhaust gas recirculation ratio is calculated using the theoretical intake air amount and the target intake air amount, and a target output torque of the engine is calculated using the target intake air amount and the exhaust gas recirculation ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yosuke Kosaka, Daisuke Shiomi, Jiro Takagi, Masaya Agata, Kentaro Onuma, Shinobu Ochiai
  • Patent number: 9086036
    Abstract: An evaporated fuel purge device integrally includes a main passage, a fuel inlet passage, a fuel outlet passage, an ejector, an air inlet passage, and an air outlet passage. Evaporated fuel flows into the main passage through the fuel inlet passage, and flow out of the main passage through the fuel outlet passage. Intake air flows into the ejector from a downstream of a turbocharger through the air inlet passage, and flows out of the ejector to an upstream of the turbocharger through the air outlet passage. At least three of the fuel inlet passage, the fuel outlet passage, the air inlet passage, and the air outlet passage are arranged to extend parallel with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignees: HAMANAKODENSO CO., LTD., DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tetsunori Inoguchi, Shinji Sugihara
  • Patent number: 9086037
    Abstract: A tank ventilation system of a motor vehicle includes a vapor filter, a first line connecting the vapor filter at a corresponding first introduction point to a suction pipe, and a second line connecting the vapor filter at a corresponding second introduction point to an environment line. The second introduction point is arranged between an air filter and a compressor of the environment line. The second line includes a Venturi nozzle configured to remove carrier flow from downstream of the compressor and upstream of the throttle valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: DR. ING. H.C. F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Helmut Schulz
  • Patent number: 9068663
    Abstract: Provided is an electromagnetic linear valve that includes a main valve body having an upper valve body and a lower valve body. The upper valve body and the lower valve body are connected together by ultrasonic welding. The lower valve body comprises a frame. The electromagnetic linear valve includes a spring leaf and a movable element. An electromagnetic unit drives the movable element in the valve body, and the electromagnetic unit includes a steel casing that is fixed to the frame. A baffle divides the valve body into upper and lower valve chambers. The upper valve chamber has an inlet vent and an outlet vent. A through hole is formed in the baffle to connect the upper and lower valve chambers. The movable element has a valve plug blocking the through hole on the baffle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: XIAMEN KOGE MICRO TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Kunlin Zhang
  • Patent number: 9062637
    Abstract: A method is provided for testing the evaporative emission system of a vehicle having a forced induction engine. The method includes controlling a vacuum bypass valve and a purge flow control valve to create the necessary conditions to perform the testing of the evaporative emission system. The method determines whether an evaporative system integrity monitor switch is open after a timer is initiated and the vacuum bypass valve is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: FCA US LLC
    Inventors: Roger C Sager, Joshua P Macchiavello, Paul J Gregor, Christopher G Hadre, Thomas H Pruett
  • Patent number: 9046060
    Abstract: An operation of a change valve is changeable between a valve closing state, in which the change valve is closed to close connection between a pump passage and a canister passage and to open connection between an atmosphere passage and the canister passage, and a valve opening state, in which the change valve is opened to open the connection between the pump passage and the canister passage and to close the connection between the atmosphere passage and the canister passage. An ECU determines that the change valve is abnormal when a value, which is obtained by subtracting a second reference pressure measured in an (n?1)th execution of a fuel vapor leakage sensing process from a first reference pressure measured in an nth execution of the fuel vapor leakage sensing process, is equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kosei Takagi, Mitsuyuki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 9038605
    Abstract: A vapor purge valve in an engine is provided. The vapor purge valve includes a purge valve inlet, a purge valve outlet, and a muffler including a housing at least partially enclosing a diffuser in fluidic communication with the purge valve inlet and the purge valve outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Ahsanul Karim, Abdelkrim Zouani, Kevin William Plymale, Paul Zeng
  • Patent number: 9027532
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for generating sufficient vacuum to enable a leak detection routine. While a fuel tank pressure is within mechanical limits, fuel vapors are purged from a canister to an engine with an isolation valve open to generate a desired level of vacuum in the fuel tank. Thereafter, the fuel tank is isolated and leak detection is performed concurrent to the purging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Mark W. Peters, Robert Roy Jentz, Darrell Erick Butler, Aed Mohammad Dudar
  • Patent number: 9027533
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling a fuel system in a hybrid vehicle. Before canister purging is stopped by closing a purge valve, a canister vent valve is closed to hold fuel tank vacuum. Then, during a subsequent canister purge, the purge valve is opened before opening the vent valve, allowing canister purge to initiate under fuel tank vacuum conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Pifher, Mark W. Peters