System and method for controlling lubrication

Abstract

The invention provides a system and method for controlling lubrication. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a temperature of a lubricant in a vehicle measured using at least one temperature sensor disposed on the vehicle, and receiving a pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle measured using at least one pressure sensor disposed on the vehicle. The method also includes determining a viscosity of the lubricant using temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlations, and controlling lubrication in the vehicle based on the viscosity of the lubricant.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to lubrication. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for controlling lubrication. Background Art

[0002] Many modern vehicles, machines, and devices include components that move relative to each other. Over time, friction wears down the moving parts, which can lead to increased degradation and reduced efficiency. Various lubricants, such as motor oil, synthetic oil, mineral oil, etc., are commonly used to reduce friction. Among other properties, lubricant viscosity also affects how a vehicle, machine, or device operates. For example, when the viscosity of the lubricant in an engine is too low, the lubricant may be less efficient at reducing friction between moving parts, which can lead to premature wear or failure. Alternatively, when the viscosity of the lubricant is too high, the efficiency of the engine may be reduced. However, the viscosity of the lubricant may not always be known. For example, it may be impractical or impossible to detect the viscosity of the lubricant at certain locations within a vehicle, such as within an engine piston. Additionally, the lubricant viscosity may not be optimized for some operating conditions.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for improved techniques to control lubrication. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A system for controlling lubrication is provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a temperature control module that controls the temperature of the lubricant in a vehicle and a pressure control module that controls the pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle. The system further includes a lubrication controller operatively coupled to the temperature control module and the pressure control module. The lubrication controller receives temperature from at least one temperature sensor and pressure from at least one pressure sensor, and determines the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle using the temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation. The lubrication controller also controls the lubrication in the vehicle based on the viscosity of the lubricant.

[0005] A method for controlling lubrication is also provided. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving the temperature of the lubricant in a vehicle measured using at least one temperature sensor disposed on the vehicle, and receiving the pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle measured using at least one pressure sensor disposed on the vehicle. The method further includes determining the viscosity of the lubricant using the temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation, and controlling the lubrication in the vehicle based on the viscosity of the lubricant. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] The present disclosure describes various embodiments with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like elements. In the drawings, the described embodiments are presented by way of example and not by way of limitation:

[0007] Figure 1is a block diagram of an example system as described herein;

[0008] Figure 2 is a block diagram of another example system as described herein;

[0009] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating steps of a process as described herein;

[0010] Figure 4A is an example of a pressure - temperature - viscosity (PTV) correlation as described herein;

[0011] Figure 4B is another example of a pressure - temperature - viscosity (PTV) correlation as described herein;

[0012] Figure 4C is yet another example of a pressure - temperature - viscosity (PTV) correlation as described herein;

[0013] Figure 5A is yet another example of a pressure - temperature - viscosity (PTV) correlation as described herein;

[0014] Figure 5B is yet another example of a pressure - temperature - viscosity (PTV) correlation as described herein; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] Lubrication affects the performance of vehicles, machines, or equipment with moving parts. Different from traditional methods, the present disclosure recognizes that the lubricants therein may not be optimized for some operating conditions. Therefore, a technical solution for controlling lubrication is provided herein. As can be understood from the following description, the present method provides many benefits and improves many technologies, such as vehicle technology, manufacturing technology, and many other technologies. For example, the present method provides actionable data and information regarding performance and maintenance, allows avoiding catastrophic failures or premature wear, allows reducing unplanned downtime events, and so on.

[0016] Figure 1 Illustrates an example system 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, system 100 may be part of or incorporated into vehicle 10, as Figure 1 shown. Vehicle 10 may include various types of automobiles, trucks, trailers, multi - purpose vehicles, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), as well as boats, airplanes, drones, trains, and other machines for transporting goods and / or people.

[0017] Generally, system 100 may include a vehicle powertrain 102, sensors 104, actuators 106, and an electrical system 108. The powertrain 102 may include various components, including a vehicle engine 12, a transmission, a drive shaft, axles, a differential, etc., which together generate power and transfer the power to the wheels of vehicle 10 to propel vehicle 10. In some applications, vehicle 10 is powered by an internal combustion engine. In other applications, vehicle 10 is powered by electricity provided by one or more electric motors. In other applications, vehicle 10 is powered by a combination of electric and combustion power.

[0018] Sensors 104 may include various sensors, including sensing devices configured to provide various useful signals and information regarding the operation of vehicle 10 and / or vehicle engine 12. In some non-limiting examples, sensors 104 may include a fuel sensor, an air flow sensor, a coolant sensor, a spark plug sensor, a throttle sensor, a speed sensor, an oxygen sensor, a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, etc.

[0019] Actuators 106 may include various hardware to perform various tasks on vehicle 10, including regulating fluid flow, moving or actuating components, controlling valves, activating switches, operating gears, etc. by hydraulically, pneumatically, magnetically, or electrically activating or moving components. In some embodiments, one or more actuators 106 may control lubrication in vehicle engine 12 by controlling various hardware and components that directly or indirectly affect the temperature and / or pressure of the lubricant in engine 12. For example, one or more actuators 106 may include and / or control a fan, a heat exchanger, a heater, a valve, a pump, a switch, a circuit, or components, etc., which may affect the flow, pressure, or temperature of fluids (such as lubricants, coolants, etc.), gases (such as air, exhaust gases, etc.), etc.

[0020] The electrical system 108 may include various hardware and components, including one or more batteries, solar panels, a starter, an alternator, relays, converters, controllers, regulators, switches, solenoids, wires, circuits, electrical components, etc. In some embodiments, the electrical system 108 powers various sensors 104, actuators 106, and other components on vehicle 10.

[0021] Referring again to Figure 1 , system 100 may also include multiple control modules that execute, manage, and monitor various functions of vehicle 10. For example, in some embodiments, system 100 may include an engine control module (ECM) 110, a body control module (BCM) 112, an air control module (ACM) 114, and a lubrication controller 116.

[0022] The ECM 110 can control various parameters and functions of the engine 12 of the vehicle 10, including air-fuel ratio, idle speed, valve timing, ignition timing, crankshaft position, etc. To this end, the ECM 110 can include any combination of analog inputs and outputs and / or digital inputs and outputs, microprocessors, integrated circuits, memories, clocks, application programming interfaces (APIs), hardware, software, etc., and can communicate with various sensors 104, actuators 106, and other components on the vehicle 10.

[0023] The BCM 112 can monitor and control various vehicle body, safety, and convenience functions. For example, the BCM 112 can manage external lighting, interior lighting, vehicle locking, remote entry, remote start, windshield wipers, seat adjustment, tire pressure monitoring, etc. To this end, the BCM 112 can include various hardware, such as analog inputs and outputs and / or digital inputs and outputs, microprocessors, integrated circuits, programmable circuits, clocks, batteries, APIs, etc., and can communicate with various components on the vehicle 10, can monitor various components on the vehicle 10, and can control various components on the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the BCM 112 can include a memory or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for storing and retrieving data, information, and executable instructions. The BCM 112 can operate independently or receive instructions from or cooperate with various external computers, systems, or devices.

[0024] The ACM 114 can monitor and control various functions and components associated with the airflow in the vehicle 10. For example, in some embodiments, the ACM 114 can control the intake air on the vehicle 10 by operating various air control components such as fans, compressors, turbines, valves, etc.

[0025] The lubrication controller 116 can monitor and control the lubrication in the vehicle engine 12. To this end, the lubrication controller 116 can include various hardware, such as analog inputs and outputs and / or digital inputs and outputs, microprocessors, integrated circuits, programmable circuits, clocks, batteries, APIs, etc., and can communicate with various components on the vehicle 10, can monitor various components on the vehicle 10, and can control various components on the vehicle 10. In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 can include a memory or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for storing and retrieving data, information, and executable instructions.

[0026] In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 may receive or access signals or data associated with temperatures measured using one or more temperature sensors 104 disposed on or around the vehicle engine 12 or the vehicle 10. The lubrication controller 116 may also receive or access signals or data associated with pressures measured using one or more pressure sensors 104 disposed on or around the vehicle engine 12 or the vehicle 10. The lubrication controller 116 may then use the temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlations associated with the vehicle engine 12 or the vehicle 10 to determine the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle engine 12 or the vehicle 10. The viscosity determined by the lubrication controller 116 may include dynamic viscosity, absolute viscosity, kinematic viscosity, etc. In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 may obtain the PTV correlation by accessing and / or retrieving the PTV correlation from a memory, database, or any other storage medium associated with or external to the vehicle engine 12 or the vehicle 10. As described in further detail below, the PTV correlation may be in the form of a look-up table, graph, chart, block diagram, model, data structure or object, library, etc., and relates various pressure, temperature, and viscosity values.

[0027] In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 may track the temperature, pressure, viscosity (and other characteristics) of the lubricant in the vehicle 10 over a period of time to determine and / or predict the state of the lubricant, the vehicle engine 12, the vehicle 10, or a combination thereof. By way of example, the lubrication controller 116 may identify usage or degradation patterns (e.g., normal, abnormal, etc.), contamination events (e.g., low, medium, high, etc.), bypass or leakage conditions, filter blockages, etc.

[0028] In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 may compare the viscosity determined in accordance with the present disclosure with a reference value. Based on this comparison, the lubrication controller 116 may control lubrication. For example, the lubrication controller 116 may determine that the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle engine 12 is lower than a predetermined viscosity value that is desired, sufficient, or optimal for operating the vehicle engine 12. The lubrication controller 116 may then generate and provide a control signal (e.g., to one or more actuators 106 and / or control modules in the vehicle 10) to change one or more states (e.g., temperature, pressure, or both) in the vehicle engine 12 so as to modify the viscosity of the lubricant to be close to the predetermined viscosity value (e.g., within a tolerance between 0.1% and 10% of the predetermined viscosity value) or exceed the predetermined viscosity value. In another example, the viscosity of the lubricant may be determined to be higher than the predetermined viscosity value. The lubrication controller 116 may then generate and provide a control signal to change one or more states in the vehicle engine 12 so as to modify the viscosity of the lubricant to be close to or lower than the predetermined viscosity value. In another example, the viscosity may be determined to be outside a predetermined viscosity range that is desired, sufficient, or optimal for operating the vehicle engine 12. The lubrication controller 116 may then generate and provide a control signal to change one or more states in the vehicle engine 12 so as to change the viscosity of the lubricant to return to the predetermined viscosity range.

[0029] In one embodiment, the lubrication controller 116 may generate a temperature control signal and transmit it to one or more actuators 106 and / or various control modules disposed on the vehicle 10. In response to the temperature control signal, one or more actuators 106 and / or control modules may initiate or stop actions to control the temperature of the lubricant. In one example, the actuator 106 may control the power or settings of a heater or fan on the vehicle engine 12. In another example, the actuator 106 may control the flow of a fluid (e.g., lubricant, coolant, etc.). For example, the actuator 106 may control whether the fluid passes through a heat exchanger on the vehicle engine 12. In one embodiment, the lubrication controller 116 may generate a pressure control signal and transmit it to one or more actuators 106 and / or various control modules disposed on the vehicle 10. In response to the pressure control signal, one or more actuators 106 and / or control modules may initiate or stop actions to control the pressure of the lubricant. In one example, the actuator may control the power, configuration, or gear of a pump (e.g., oil pump, water pump, etc.) on the vehicle engine 12. In another example, the actuator 106 may control the configuration of a valve (e.g., safety valve) on the vehicle engine 12. In another example, the actuator 106 may control the flow of the lubricant, such as through a manifold, impedance, conduit, nozzle, etc.

[0030] In some embodiments, the lubrication controller 116 may generate and provide a report. The report may be in any form, including various data and information, including various visual and / or audio signals, images, graphics, tabular information, data, instructions (readable by a user or a machine), curves, lists, numbers, text, etc. For example, the report may include data and / or information indicating the status or characteristics of the lubricant in the vehicle engine 12 (such as temperature, pressure, viscosity, remaining useful life, etc.), the status of the vehicle engine 12, the status of components in the vehicle 10 (such as filters, lubricants, etc.), and maintenance or replacement recommendations. The report may be communicated to one or more users via a display, a touch screen, a navigation system, a speaker, and other outputs on the vehicle 10, and may also be transmitted to various devices, systems, or third parties. For example, the report may be streamed, printed, faxed, emailed, etc. The report may be provided in real time, intermittently, periodically (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, etc.), or any combination thereof. The report may also be stored in a storage medium (such as a memory, a database, a server, etc.) for later access or retrieval.

[0031] The components of the system 100 may be operably (runnably) coupled, connectable, or connected to each other via the communication network 118, and exchange signals, data, and information. The communication network 118 may include various hardware and components that provide wired and wireless connections via various communication protocols. Non-limiting examples of communication protocols include Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Flex Ray, Vehicle Area Network (VAN), Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST), BluetoothTM, Wi-Fi, etc. In some embodiments, the communication network 118 may include one or more vehicle buses that interconnect the components and hardware in the system 100. The communication network 118 may also include various gateways, bridges, receivers, transmitters, transceivers, antennas, and other components, circuits, and hardware that facilitate communication.

[0032] Although specific components are shown and described with reference to Figure 1 the system 100 may include more or fewer components, and may also integrate or separate tasks for monitoring and / or controlling the vehicle 10. For example, in some embodiments, the system 100 may include modules for brake control, climate control, transmission control, etc. Additionally, in some examples, the system 100 may include multiple input / output (I / O) modules or components, such as buttons, dials, knobs, touch screens, keyboards, monitors, screens, panels, displays, buzzers, speakers, etc., which may receive instructions or inputs from a user and provide data, information, instructions, and other outputs to an operator or a driver.

[0033] Now turning to Figure 2, According to aspects of the present disclosure, an example system 200 for controlling lubrication is provided. The system 200 may generally include a lubrication controller 230 having a housing 232, and the lubrication controller 230 may include various I / O hardware 240 and one or more processors 250.

[0034] The I / O hardware 240 may include various input elements and output elements that can receive, transmit, and provide various data, information, and instructions. Example input elements include buttons, microphones, dials, knobs, touchscreens, keyboards, connectors, etc. Example output elements include monitors, screens, panels, displays, buzzers, speakers, lights, etc. In some embodiments, the I / O hardware 240 may include a display 242, and the display 242 may provide various reports, data, or information to an operator or driver. For example, the display 256 may provide reports indicating the status or characteristics of the lubricant in the engine (such as temperature, pressure, viscosity, remaining useful life, etc.), the status of the engine, the status of components in the vehicle or engine (such as filters, lubricants, etc.), and the like. Although Figure 2 the display 242 is shown to be located within the housing 232 of the lubrication controller 230, in some embodiments, the display 242 may be located outside the housing 232. For example, the display 242 may be associated with or be part of a dashboard, a navigation system, a heads-up display, a console, a reader, etc. on a machine, a vehicle, or any other type of device.

[0035] In some embodiments, as Figure 2 shown, the I / O hardware 240 may include various signal hardware 244, which can acquire, sample, transform, receive, transmit, process, and / or generate various signals, data, and information. Non-limiting examples include data recorders, recorders, signal converters (such as analog-to-digital, digital-to-analog, voltage, frequency, voltage-to-frequency, frequency-to-voltage, current-to-voltage, voltage-to-current, etc.), signal regulators (such as amplifiers, attenuators, filters, inverters, choppers, etc.), signal generators, relays, buses, switches, circuits, interfaces, boards, clocks, etc. In some embodiments, the I / O hardware 240 may include various communication hardware 244, which can facilitate the communication of signals, data, and information between components of the lubrication controller 230 and the communication of signals, data, and information between the lubrication controller 230 and its components and external sensors, devices, modules, systems, etc. Non-limiting examples include connectors, ports, circuits, adapters, interface cards, network cards, buses, circuits, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, antennas, modulators, modes, etc.

[0036] One or more processors 250 may execute various steps for operating system 200, such as accessing, processing, receiving, transmitting, and / or storing various signals, data, and information. To this end, processor 250 may include or utilize one or more programmable processors that can execute instructions or sequences of instructions. This information is transmitted to processor 250 or accessed by processor 250 from, for example, a memory, a database, or other data storage locations. Alternatively or additionally, processor 250 may include one or more dedicated processors, processing units, devices, modules, or systems specifically configured (e.g., hardwired or pre-programmed) to perform these tasks and steps. By way of example, processor 250 may include any combination of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processing (DSP) chip, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microprocessor, an integrated circuit, a programmable circuit, and the like.

[0037] As Figure 2 shown, lubrication controller 230 may optionally include a power source 260 (e.g., a battery) within housing 232 to power the various components of lubrication controller 230. Additionally, or alternatively, lubrication controller 230 may be connected to an external power source and receive external power from an internal power source, such as vehicle 10 described in reference Figure 1 . In some embodiments, power source 260 may include various hardware for adapting, storing, and / or delivering electrical power to the various components in lubrication controller 230.

[0038] Lubrication controller 230 may optionally include a memory 270 for storing various data, information, and / or instructions. In some embodiments, memory 270 may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), non-volatile (NV) memory, and the like. In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the non-transitory computer-readable medium may store instructions for controlling lubrication.

[0039] System 200 may include various sensors, devices, and other hardware, which may be operatively coupled, connectable, or connected (e.g., via wired and / or wireless connections) to lubrication controller 230. For example, in some embodiments, system 200 may optionally include one or more temperature sensors 280, which may be operatively coupled, connectable, or connected to lubrication controller 230. Temperature sensors 280 may be mounted or included in various vehicles, machines, devices, or their components to provide various signals and / or data associated with temperature, including the temperature of the lubricant therein. In some embodiments, system 200 can optionally include one or more pressure sensors 282, which may be operatively coupled, connectable, or connected to lubrication controller 230. The pressure sensors may be mounted or included in various vehicles, machines, devices, or their components to provide various signals and / or data associated with pressure, including the temperature of the lubricant therein

[0040] In some embodiments, system 200 can optionally include temperature control module 290, which may be operatively coupled, connectable, or connected to lubrication controller 230. Temperature control module 290 can control the temperature in a vehicle, machine, device, or its components, thereby controlling the temperature of the lubricant therein. For example, in response to a temperature control signal generated and provided by lubrication controller 230, temperature control module 290 can initiate or stop actions to control the lubricant temperature. In one example, temperature control module 290 can control the power or settings of a heater or a fan. In another example, temperature control module 290 can control the flow of a fluid (e.g., lubricant, coolant, etc.). For example, temperature control module 290 can control whether the fluid passes through a heat exchanger on the vehicle.

[0041] In some embodiments, system 200 may include pressure control module 292, which is operatively coupled, connectable, or connected to lubrication controller 230, where pressure control module 292 controls the pressure in a vehicle, machine, device, or its components, thereby controlling the lubricant pressure therein. For example, in response to a pressure control signal generated and provided by lubrication controller 230, pressure control module 292 can initiate or stop actions to control the lubricant pressure. In one example, pressure control module 292 can control the power, configuration, or gears of a pump (e.g., an oil pump, a water pump, etc.). In another example, pressure control module 292 can control the configuration of a valve (e.g., a safety valve). In another example, pressure control module 292 can control the flow of the lubricant, such as through a manifold, impedance, conduit, nozzle, etc. Although pressure control module 292 and temperature control module 290 are Figure 2 shown outside housing 232 of lubrication controller 230, in some embodiments, either module or both modules can be inside housing 232.

[0042] In some embodiments, the processor 250 may perform steps to control lubrication in accordance with the present disclosure. In some implementations, the processor 250 may initiate and / or control the measurement or acquisition of signals generated by various devices or sensors, such as signals generated by the temperature sensor 280 and / or the pressure sensor 282. For example, the processor 250 may instruct the signal hardware 244 to sample signals from the temperature sensor 280 and / or the pressure sensor 282 at a predetermined sampling rate, for a predetermined amount of time, one or more predetermined times or time intervals, or any combination thereof. In some implementations, the processor 250 may receive the signals sampled by the signal hardware 244, may process the received signals, and / or may store the processed signals as data. For example, the temperature and / or pressure signals sampled by the signal hardware 244 from the outputs generated by the temperature sensor 280 and / or the pressure sensor 282 may be processed by filtering, averaging, detrending, amplifying, scaling, etc., and saved as temperature data and / or pressure data in digital format (e.g., in the memory 270 and elsewhere).

[0043] In some implementations, the processor 250 may determine the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle, machine, device, or component thereof (e.g., dynamic viscosity, absolute viscosity, kinematic viscosity, etc.). To do so, the processor 250 may utilize various temperature, pressure, and PTV correlation data associated with the vehicle, machine, device, or component thereof. In some implementations, the processor 250 may retrieve or access the temperature, pressure, and PTV correlation data from a storage location (such as the memory 270) or elsewhere. As described in further detail below, the PTV correlation may include various forms of data such as lookup tables, graphs, charts, block diagrams, models, data structures or objects, libraries, etc., and relate various pressure, temperature, and viscosity values. Using the temperature and pressure values and the PTV correlation, the processor 250 may identify one or more viscosity values corresponding to the temperature and pressure.

[0044] In some implementations, the processor 250 may compare the viscosity to a reference value. Based on this comparison, the lubrication controller 250 may control lubrication. For example, the processor 250 may determine that the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle, machine, device, or component thereof is lower than a predetermined viscosity value that is desired, sufficient, or optimal for operating the vehicle, machine, device, or component thereof. The processor 250 may then generate and provide one or more control signals, either alone or in cooperation with the signal hardware 244, to change one or more states (e.g., temperature, pressure, or both) in the vehicle, machine, device, or component thereof.

[0045] For example, the processor 250 and / or the signal hardware 244 may generate a temperature control signal and provide it to the temperature control module 290 to control the temperature in a vehicle, machine, device, or a component thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the processor 250 and / or the signal hardware 244 may generate a pressure control signal and provide it to the pressure control module 292 to control the pressure in a vehicle, machine, device, or a component thereof. Due to the action of the temperature control module 290 and / or the pressure control module 292, the viscosity of the lubricant may be modified to be close to a predetermined viscosity value (e.g., within a tolerance between 0.1% and 10% of the predetermined viscosity value) or exceed the predetermined viscosity value.

[0046] In another example, the viscosity of the lubricant may be determined to be higher than a predetermined viscosity value. The processor 250 and / or the signal hardware 244 may then generate and provide one or more control signals to change one or more states so as to modify the viscosity of the lubricant to be close to or lower than the predetermined viscosity value. In another example, the viscosity may be determined to be outside a desired, sufficient, or optimal predetermined viscosity range during operation. The processor 250 and / or the signal hardware 244 may then generate and provide one or more control signals to change one or more states so as to change the viscosity of the lubricant to return to the predetermined viscosity range.

[0047] According to aspects of the present disclosure, in some cases, pressure and temperature measurements may be synchronized with parameters of a vehicle, machine, device, or a component thereof, such that a direct measurement of viscosity (e.g., via a viscosity sensor) may be different from the viscosity determined by the processor 250. This may be due to dilution of the lubricant by fuel, coolant, water, or other external factors and may cause many problems, such as collapse of the filter medium. Thus, based on a comparison between the determined viscosity and the measured viscosity, the processor 250 may take any number of actions. For example, the processor 250 may generate a report indicating the difference between the measured viscosity and the determined viscosity, maintenance recommendations, root cause analysis recommendations, etc.

[0048] In some embodiments, the processor 250 may track the temperature, pressure, and / or viscosity (among other parameters) of the lubricant over a period of time to determine and / or predict the state of the lubricant and / or the state of the vehicle, machine, equipment, or its components using the lubricant. In one non-limiting example, one or more temperature measurements may be too high (e.g., exceeding a predetermined value or range of predetermined values), resulting in a decrease in the viscosity of the lubricant and a decrease in mechanical durability or a failure of moving parts due to reduced or lost lubricant coverage. Thus, in some embodiments, the processor 250 may analyze a set of temperature and / or pressure measurements and extrapolate these temperature and / or pressure measurements to determine the time point and / or temperature / pressure value indicating a decrease in mechanical durability and / or a failure. In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, the processor 250 may initiate actions accordingly, such as generating and providing one or more control signals. In particular, the processor 250 may manipulate the temperature and / or pressure to change the viscosity of the lubricant (e.g., a multi-viscosity lubricant) to avoid or delay the occurrence of the time point and / or temperature / pressure value indicating a decrease in mechanical durability and / or a failure.

[0049] Turning now to Figure 3 , a flowchart illustrating the steps of process 300 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The steps of process 300 may be performed using any combination of suitable devices or systems and using the systems described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the steps of process 300 may be implemented as instructions, programs, hardware, or software stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium and executed by a general-purpose, programmed, or programmable computer, processor, or any other computing device. In other embodiments, the steps of process 300 may be hardwired in a dedicated computer, processor, or dedicated system or module, as referenced Figure 1 and Figure 2 described. Although process 300 is shown and described as a series of steps, it is contemplated that these steps may be performed in any order or combination. Process 300 need not include all of the steps shown and may include other steps or additional steps in some embodiments.

[0050] Process 300 may optionally begin at process block 302, measuring the temperature and / or pressure of the lubricant. As described herein, the lubricant may be used in various vehicles, machines, equipment, or their components. Thus, various sensors, devices, or systems may be used at process block 302 to measure the temperature and / or pressure. For example, as referenced Figure 1 described, one or more temperature sensors 104 disposed on or around the vehicle engine 12 and / or one or more pressure sensors 104 disposed on or around the vehicle engine 12 may be used to measure the temperature and / or pressure.

[0051] The temperature and pressure may then be received, as shown at process block 304. For example, as referencedFigure 2 As described, the lubrication controller 250 can receive temperature and / or pressure from various sensors, devices, or other signal detection hardware (such as temperature sensor 280 and / or pressure sensor 282). In some embodiments, the temperature and / or pressure can be received during measurement. For example, using the signal hardware 244 described with reference Figure 2 the real-time signals output by various sensors, devices, or other signal detection hardware can be sampled at a predetermined rate, for a predetermined amount of time, at one or more predetermined times or time intervals, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the temperature and pressure can be measured simultaneously such that at least one temperature measurement and at least one pressure measurement are associated with a specific point in time, or are obtained within a short time window (e.g., less than 10 seconds, less than 5 seconds, less than 1 second, etc.). In some embodiments, the temperature and / or pressure can be received by accessing data stored in a storage medium at process block 304. For example, the lubrication controller 250 can receive temperature data and / or pressure data from the memory 270.

[0052] In some embodiments, the temperature and pressure signals or data received at process block 304 can also be processed, for example, by filtering, averaging, detrending, amplifying, scaling, etc. The raw and / or processed signals or data can also be saved in digital format (e.g., in the memory 270 and elsewhere) as temperature data and / or pressure data. In some embodiments, other data or information can be measured, received, or accessed at process blocks 302, 304, such as data and information related to the lubricant, data and information related to the vehicle, machine, device, or component using the lubricant, data and information related to one or more operating states of the vehicle, machine, device, or its components, etc.

[0053] Then, at process block 306, the viscosity of the lubricant can be determined using the temperature, pressure, and PTV correlation, which relates various temperature, pressure, and viscosity values. As Figures 4A - 4C and Figures 5A - 5B shown, the PTV correlation can take various forms, such as a look-up table, graph, chart, block diagram, model, data structure or object, library, etc. The PTV correlation can include various other data and information, such as data and information related to the lubricant, data and information related to the vehicle, machine, device, or component using the lubricant, data and information related to one or more operating states of the vehicle, machine, or device, or its components, etc.

[0054] As an example, Figure 4AThe PTV correlation 400 is shown graphically, and more specifically, depicts two three-dimensional relationships 402 between pressure, temperature, and viscosity values. As shown in the text field 404 associated with the PTV correlation 400, each relationship 402 may correspond to a specific lubricant (i.e., "FA-4" and "CK-4"), a specific location or component on the engine (i.e., "main passage"), and a specific operating state of the engine (i.e., "1200 rpm"). Of course, the relationships 402, lubricants, location / components, or operating states in the PTV correlation 400 may vary. For example, for different operating states (such as Figure 4B "850 rpm" as shown) or different locations or different components on the engine (such as Figure 4C "oil pump" as shown), the relationship 402 may be different. In other examples shown in Figure 5A and 5B , the PTV correlation may be in tabular form, including various fields and values such as temperature, pressure, viscosity (such as kinematic viscosity, dynamic viscosity, etc.), flow rate, engine speed, lubricant type (such as FA-4, CK-4, etc.), and other data and information.

[0055] Referring again to Figure 3 , in some embodiments, the PTV correlation used at process block 306 may correspond to a specific vehicle, machine, device, or its component using the lubricant. Thus, the PTV correlation may be stored in and accessed from a memory or other storage location associated with the specific vehicle, machine, device, or its component. For example, the PTV correlation may be stored in the memory 270 described in reference Figure 2 . In other embodiments, the PTV correlation may be programmed or hardwired in a processor, module, device, hardware, etc. via hardware, software, etc.

[0056] At process block 306, the viscosity may be determined by identifying one or more viscosity values corresponding to the temperature and pressure values received at process block 304. As can be understood from the above examples, other data and information may be utilized, such as data and information related to the lubricant, data or information related to the vehicle, machine, device, or component using the lubricant, data and information related to one or more operating states of the vehicle, machine, or device or its component, etc.

[0057] Lubrication may then be controlled based on the determined viscosity, as shown at process block 308. To control lubrication, one or more control signals may be generated and sent to the hardware that controls at least one state affecting the viscosity of the lubricant. For example, in one embodiment, a temperature control signal may be generated by the lubrication controller 250 and / or signal hardware 244 and sent to the temperature control module 290, as in reference Figure 2As described. In response to the temperature control signal, the temperature of the lubricant can be modified or maintained. In another embodiment, the pressure control signal can be generated by the lubrication controller 250 and / or the signal hardware 244 and sent to the pressure control module 292, as referenced Figure 2 As described. In response to the pressure control signal, the pressure of the lubricant can be modified or maintained.

[0058] In some embodiments, a comparison can be made with a reference value at process block 308, and one or more control signals can be generated based on the comparison. For example, if it is determined at process block 308 that the viscosity is lower than a predetermined viscosity value desired, sufficient, or optimal for the operating vehicle, machine, equipment, or its components, one or more control signals can be generated and provided to change one or more states (e.g., temperature, pressure, or both) in the vehicle, machine, or its components, so that the viscosity of the lubricant can be modified to be close to the predetermined viscosity value (e.g., within a tolerance between 0.1% and 10% of the predetermined viscosity value) or exceed the predetermined viscosity value.

[0059] In another example, if it is determined that the viscosity of the lubricant is higher than the predetermined viscosity value, one or more control signals can be generated and provided to change one or more states, so that the viscosity of the lubricant can be modified to be close to or lower than the predetermined viscosity value. In another example, if it is determined that the viscosity is outside the predetermined viscosity range desired, sufficient, or optimal for operation, one or more control signals can be generated and provided to change one or more states, so that the viscosity of the lubricant can be changed to return to the predetermined viscosity range.

[0060] The steps of process 300 can be repeated continuously, periodically, or intermittently. In this way, the temperature, pressure, viscosity (and other parameters) of the lubricant can be tracked over time and used to determine and / or predict the state of the lubricant and / or the state of the vehicle, machine, equipment, or its components, as described.

[0061] In some embodiments, reports may be generated and provided at various steps of process 300. The reports can be in any form, including various data and information, including various visual and / or audio signals, images, graphics, tabular information, data, instructions (readable by a user or a machine), curves, lists, numbers, text, etc. For example, the reports may include data and / or information indicating the status or characteristics of a lubricant (e.g., temperature, pressure, viscosity, remaining useful life, etc.), the status of a vehicle, machine, equipment, or its components, maintenance or replacement recommendations, etc. The reports can be communicated to one or more users via a display, a touch screen, a navigation system, a speaker, and other means, and can also be transmitted to various devices, systems, or third parties. For example, the reports can be streamed, printed, faxed, emailed, etc. The reports can be provided in real time, intermittently, periodically (e.g., hourly, daily, weekly, monthly, etc.), or any combination thereof. The reports can also be stored in a storage medium (e.g., a memory, a database, a server, etc.) for later access or retrieval.

[0062] According to one embodiment, a system for controlling lubrication includes a temperature control module that controls the temperature of a lubricant in a vehicle and a pressure control module that controls the pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle. The system further includes a lubrication controller operatively coupled to the temperature control module and the pressure control module, wherein the lubrication controller receives temperature from at least one temperature sensor, receives pressure from at least one pressure sensor, and uses the temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation to determine the viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle. The lubrication controller also controls the lubrication in the vehicle based on the viscosity of the lubricant. In one embodiment, the lubrication controller obtains the PTV correlation from a memory associated with the vehicle, which correlates the pressure, temperature, and viscosity values of the lubricant in the vehicle. In another embodiment, the lubrication controller performs a comparison to determine whether the viscosity is within a predetermined viscosity range or whether the viscosity is different from a predetermined value. In another embodiment, the lubrication controller sends a temperature control signal to the temperature control module based on the comparison result, and in response to the temperature control signal, the temperature control module modifies or maintains the temperature of the lubricant to control the lubrication. In another embodiment, the lubrication controller sends a pressure control signal to the pressure control module based on the comparison result, and in response to the pressure control signal, the pressure control module modifies or maintains the pressure of the lubricant to control the lubrication. In another embodiment, the lubrication controller tracks the viscosity over a period of time to determine the status of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both. In another embodiment, the lubrication controller generates a report indicating the status of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both.

[0063] According to another embodiment, a method for controlling lubrication includes receiving the temperature of a lubricant in a vehicle measured using at least one temperature sensor disposed on the vehicle, and receiving the pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle measured using at least one pressure sensor disposed on the vehicle. The method further includes determining the viscosity of the lubricant using the temperature, pressure, and pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation, and controlling the lubrication in the vehicle based on the viscosity of the lubricant. In one embodiment, the method further includes simultaneously measuring the temperature and pressure. In another embodiment, the method further includes obtaining the PTV correlation from a memory associated with the vehicle, wherein the PTV correlation relates the pressure, temperature, and viscosity values of the lubricant in the vehicle. In another embodiment, the method further includes performing a comparison to determine whether the viscosity is within a predetermined viscosity range or whether the viscosity is different from a predetermined viscosity value. In another embodiment, the method further includes sending a temperature control signal to a temperature control module based on the comparison, and modifying or maintaining the temperature of the lubricant using the temperature control module in response to the temperature control signal. In another embodiment, the method further includes sending a pressure control signal to a pressure control module based on the comparison, and modifying or maintaining the pressure of the lubricant using the pressure control module in response to the pressure control signal. In another embodiment, the method further includes tracking the viscosity over a period of time to determine the state of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both. In another embodiment, the method further includes generating a report indicating the state of the lubricant, the state of the vehicle, or both.

[0064] Although the present disclosure describes multiple embodiments and implementations, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements falling within the scope of the appended claims. Although certain features are presented in the claims in certain combinations, it is contemplated that these features may be arranged in any combination and order. It should be understood that many equivalents, alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible other than those expressly set forth.

Claims

1. A system for controlling lubrication, the system comprising: a temperature control module, the temperature control module controlling the temperature of a lubricant in the vehicle; a pressure control module, the pressure control module controlling the pressure of the lubricant in the vehicle; as well as a lubrication controller operably coupled to the temperature control module and the pressure control module, wherein the lubrication controller: receiving a temperature from at least one temperature sensor and receiving a pressure from at least one pressure sensor; determining a viscosity of the lubricant in the vehicle using the temperature, the pressure, and a pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation; and Lubrication in the vehicle is controlled based on the viscosity of the lubricant.

2. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The lubrication controller obtains the PTV correlation from a memory associated with the vehicle, the PTV correlation relating pressure, temperature, and viscosity values ​​of the lubricant in the vehicle.

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The lubrication controller performs a comparison to determine whether the viscosity is within a predetermined viscosity range or whether the viscosity is different from a predetermined value.

4. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that The lubrication controller sends a temperature control signal to the temperature control module based on the comparison, and in response to the temperature control signal, the temperature control module modifies or maintains a temperature of the lubricant to control lubrication.

5. The system according to claim 3, characterized in that The lubrication controller sends a pressure control signal to the pressure control module based on the comparison, and in response to the pressure control signal, the pressure control module modifies or maintains the pressure of the lubricant to control lubrication.

6. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that The lubrication controller tracks the viscosity over a period of time to determine a condition of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both.

7. The system according to claim 6, characterized in that The lubrication controller generates a report indicating a status of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both.

8. A method for controlling lubrication, the method comprising: receiving a temperature of a lubricant in the vehicle measured using at least one temperature sensor disposed on the vehicle; receiving a pressure of a lubricant in the vehicle measured using at least one pressure sensor disposed on the vehicle; determining a viscosity of the lubricant using the temperature, the pressure, and a pressure-temperature-viscosity (PTV) correlation; as well as Lubrication in the vehicle is controlled based on the viscosity of the lubricant.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The method also includes measuring the temperature and the pressure simultaneously.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The method also includes obtaining the PTV correlation from a memory associated with the vehicle, wherein the PTV correlation relates pressure, temperature, and viscosity values ​​of the lubricant in the vehicle.

11. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The method also includes performing a comparison to determine whether the viscosity is within a predetermined viscosity range or whether the viscosity is different than a predetermined viscosity value.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The method also includes sending a temperature control signal to a temperature control module based on the comparison, and modifying or maintaining a temperature of the lubricant using the temperature control module in response to the temperature control signal.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The method also includes sending a pressure control signal to a pressure control module based on the comparison, and modifying or maintaining the pressure of the lubricant using the pressure control module in response to the pressure control signal.

14. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The method also includes tracking the viscosity over a period of time to determine a condition of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that The method also includes generating a report indicating a status of the lubricant, the vehicle, or both.

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