Methods and systems for indicating water at an oxygen sensor based on sensor heater power consumption

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for indicating water at an oxygen sensor based on power consumption of a heating element of the oxygen sensor. In one example, water may be indicated at an oxygen sensor positioned in an intake of an engine responsive to power consumption of the heating element of the oxygen sensor increasing above a baseline level. Engine operating parameters may then be adjusted based on the water indication and the power consumption.

Description

technical field [0001] The present application relates to methods and systems for indicating water at an oxygen sensor based on power consumption of a sensor heater. Background technique [0002] Engine systems may utilize recirculation of exhaust gas from the engine exhaust system to the engine intake system, a process known as exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), to reduce regulated emissions. For example, a turbocharged engine system may include a low pressure (LP) EGR system that recirculates exhaust gas from the exhaust system to the intake passage upstream of the turbocharger compressor. An intake oxygen sensor (IAO2) may be disposed in the engine intake downstream of the compressor and charge air cooler to provide an indication of EGR flow based on measured water content of the intake air. [0003] The inventors herein have recognized various problems with the systems described above. Specifically, intake oxygen sensor (IAO2) measurements used to determine exhaust gas r...

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Problems solved by technology

In some examples, use of such inaccurate EGR measurements could trigger diagnostic routines, as well as inaccurately adjust spark timing or other combustion parameters

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