Device and method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine

Abstract

Method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine (230) of a vehicle (100), wherein the vehicle (100) has functions for starting and stopping the internal combustion engine (230) both via an ignition switch and via a start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) for temporarily stopping the internal combustion engine (230) during a routine procedure to save fuel, wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Control (s401) at least of the start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) under the control of a user during functional tests of the vehicle (100), and - Overriding (s420; s450) at least certain existing predefined conditions that allow the internal combustion engine (230) to be started and / or stopped while under user control.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle. The invention also relates to a computer program comprising program code for a computer for implementing a method according to the invention. The invention also relates to a device for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle and to a motor vehicle, e.g., a hybrid vehicle, equipped with the device. background

[0002] Certain motor vehicles are equipped with functionality to save fuel and reduce emissions by switching off and on an internal combustion engine during temporary stops, such as when idling at a traffic light, e.g., when the light is red, or when loading or unloading cargo. This functionality may be called start / stop functionality or S / S functionality. An example of such vehicles are cars with so-called hybrid drive systems. Vehicles without hybrid drive systems can also be equipped with start / stop functionality. Hybrid vehicles can be powered by an internal combustion engine or a hybrid system comprising an electric motor and an energy storage device, e.g., a suitable battery.

[0003] During operation of vehicles with the start / stop functionality, the engine is shut down and started more frequently than during operation of vehicles without the start / stop functionality. This is associated with a greater risk that the vehicle will experience unknown or undesirable malfunction modes that could negatively affect the operation of its systems, such as the control of various shock absorbers and auxiliary elements, the operation of adaptations of various systems, the thermal regulation of various components, or the operation of various sensors, among other things. In certain cases, various malfunction codes may be generated.

[0004] WO 2014 / 044679 A1 (state of the art according to Section 3 (2) of the German Patent Act) discloses a system for controlling the drive system for a vehicle. The system blocks the intervention of a start-stop control element when the vehicle is operating in off-road mode. A means for manually overriding the intervention can be used. Furthermore, the means can also override an intervention to test a subsystem function during routine maintenance.

[0005] WO 2013 / 130155 A1 (state of the art according to Section 3 (2) of the Patent Act) discloses a retrofit kit for a vehicle that includes a start-stop module. The start-stop module can be attached to a wiring harness between a starter motor and an ignition to form a start-stop system for automatically switching on and off an internal combustion engine. Furthermore, test programs are provided that can be executed by a driver to ensure proper functioning of the start-stop system.

[0006] US 2006 / 0 244 626 A1, DE 10 2012 002 230 A1, DE 11 2008 001 221 T5 disclose further systems with start / stop functionality.

[0007] Currently, there is no user-friendly and effective method for a user to diagnose the vehicle, for example, in a workshop or at a repair shop, based on the malfunction codes generated during operation of the start / stop functionality. According to the current state of the art, the user is severely limited in their ability to diagnose the vehicle, as well as in troubleshooting malfunction modes related to the start / stop functionality. In cases where the vehicle's driver compartment is tilted, for example, to acoustically check for an air leak, inspect a vehicle's shock absorber, or visually check for a fluid leak, a user may be forced to manually turn off and start the vehicle using a key. Brief description of the invention

[0008] There is therefore a need to facilitate the examination of vehicles by a user, e.g., in a repair shop. In particular, there is a need to facilitate the examination of malfunctions of auxiliary elements, components, systems, etc., or malfunction codes related to the start / stop functionality of vehicles such as trucks, e.g., during a service.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to propose a new and advantageous method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle.

[0010] A further object of the invention is to propose a new and advantageous device and a new and advantageous computer program for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle.

[0011] A further object of the invention is to propose a method, a device and a computer program for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle in a user-friendly and time-efficient manner in the context of diagnosing malfunctions related to the start / stop functionality.

[0012] A further object of the invention is to propose a method, a device and a computer program for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle in a user-friendly and cost-effective manner in the context of diagnosing malfunctions related to the start / stop functionality.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to propose a method, a device and a computer program for carrying out an effective examination and / or diagnosis of a motor vehicle.

[0014] These objects are achieved by a method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle according to claim 1 and a device for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle according to claim 9.

[0015] One aspect of the invention proposes a method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, wherein the vehicle has functions for starting and stopping the engine both via an ignition switch and via a start-stop arrangement for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving. The method comprises the step of controlling at least the start-stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0016] The result is a user-friendly method by which a user can actively and manually determine when an internal combustion engine of a vehicle should be started and / or switched off. This can advantageously be achieved by wireless communication with a mobile electronic unit at a distance from the driver's cabin of the vehicle. According to one aspect of the invention, the result is a method by which the user can exercise greater control over the operation of the engine, e.g., during functional tests related to the start / stop functionality. It should be noted that when the engine is switched off by the start / stop functionality, the vehicle may still be operating, i.e., various systems may be supplied with power and running. If the vehicle has a hybrid system, the latter may still be active when the engine is not running.

[0017] One aspect of the invention proposes a workshop test that includes controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having functions for starting and stopping the engine via both an ignition switch and a start-and-stop arrangement for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving. The workshop test comprises the following step: - Control at least the start and stop arrangement under the control of the user during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0018] The result is a procedure for easier troubleshooting of a vehicle with start / stop functionality. This may include manually determining when the engine should be shut down and started by the start / stop functionality.

[0019] The method may further comprise the following step: - Controlling both the start and stop arrangement and the engine starting and shutting down function via an ignition switch under user control. Controlling the engine starting and shutting down can be achieved electronically, e.g., using a virtual key.

[0020] The result is a versatile method that allows not only starting and shutting down the vehicle's engine via the start / stop device, but also its usual starting and / or shutting down. This can be achieved using the mobile electronic unit, which serves as a virtual key for the vehicle's ignition switch.

[0021] The method further comprises the following step: - Overriding at least certain existing predefined conditions that allow starting and / or stopping the engine while driving under user control.

[0022] The beneficial result is a user-friendly procedure. By overriding at least certain non-critical conditions, it is possible to start and shut down the engine without restrictions in the form of essentially unnecessary or undesirable unfulfilled predefined conditions. Another result is the ability to perform a desired service or functional test of the vehicle in a time-effective manner.

[0023] The method may further comprise the following step: - Adding further predefined conditions that allow starting and / or stopping the engine to existing predefined conditions during control under user control.

[0024] An effective and safe method according to the present invention can thus be achieved. The added further predefined conditions can be safety-related. An example of such a safety-related condition could be that a handbrake or parking brake of the vehicle was activated before the engine was turned off or started. Another example could be that a prevailing temperature of a fluid in a certain system is below a predefined temperature to prevent the user from being exposed to the risk of burns during the functional test.

[0025] The method may further comprise the following step: - Controlling the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown, both in the form of standalone starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence. A standalone start thus represents a specific event. A standalone stop also represents a specific event. Standalone stops and starts in the sequence can, for example, be selected independently of each other in one embodiment.

[0026] The result is a versatile and user-friendly method according to the invention that allows a user to request a predefined sequence of starts and stops in advance, e.g., at intervals of 2, 5, or 10 minutes. In one example, a sequence may comprise a series of engine starts and stops, with the time period between the starts and stops being variable. The sequence may be aligned with a checklist for service or functional testing of the vehicle.

[0027] The method may further comprise the following step: - Controlling the functions through an external user device, which may be a portable computer. The method may include the step of connecting the external user device to establish wireless communication with a control unit of the vehicle to manage the start and stop functionality. The result is a user-friendly method according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0028] The method may further comprise the following step: - Controlling the functions by in-vehicle user devices. The advantageous result is an alternative method for implementing a user-controlled method according to the invention.

[0029] The method may further comprise the following step: - Adapting functions related to starting and / or shutting down the engine to the control system during control under user control. This may include, for example, predefined control actions related to shutting down or starting the engine to be deactivated. Control actions related to shutting down or starting the engine that are not typically related to the start / stop functionality can also be added and executed. The result is a versatile and user-friendly method according to the invention.

[0030] The method may further comprise the following step: - Adapting the generation of malfunction codes to the control during operation under user control. This may include certain malfunction codes that are not normally presented and thus not recorded and / or displayed during operation of the start / stop functionality to be deactivated. In one version, all or part of the malfunction codes normally associated with the start / stop functionality can be generated and routinely presented using the method of the invention, i.e., when the functionality is controlled by the user.

[0031] The method according to the invention is advantageously applicable to vehicles equipped with an internal combustion engine and a hybrid system, e.g., a parallel hybrid system. The hybrid systems may, for example, comprise a suitable means for energy storage, e.g., a flywheel, a pneumatic accumulator, or a capacitor. In one example, the hybrid system may be provided with an energy storage device in the form of a battery. Therefore, the method is versatile.

[0032] The method can be implemented in existing motor vehicles. According to one aspect of the invention, the software for implementing the method according to the invention can be installed in a control unit of the vehicle during vehicle manufacture. A purchaser of the vehicle can thus have the possibility of selecting the function of the method as an option. Alternatively, software comprising program code for implementing the method according to the invention for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle can be installed in a control unit of the vehicle as part of an upgrade in a repair shop, in which case the software can be loaded into a memory of the control unit.

[0033] Software that includes program code for controlling the operation of a vehicle's internal combustion engine is easy to update or replace. Furthermore, different parts of the software that includes the program code for controlling the operation of a vehicle's internal combustion engine can be replaced independently of one another. This modular configuration is advantageous from a maintenance perspective.

[0034] One aspect of the invention is a proposed device for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having engine starting and stopping functions including a start and stop arrangement suitable for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving. The device includes a means suitable for controlling at least the start and stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0035] One aspect of the invention is a proposed device for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having functions suitable for starting and stopping the engine both via an ignition switch and via a start-and-stop arrangement for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving. The device comprises means suitable for controlling at least the start-and-stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0036] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for controlling both the start and stop arrangement and the function of starting and stopping the engine via an ignition switch under the control of the user.

[0037] The device includes: - a means suitable for overriding at least certain existing predefined conditions enabling the engine to be started and / or stopped during operation under the control of the user.

[0038] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for adding further predefined conditions enabling the engine to be started and / or stopped to existing predefined conditions during operation under the control of the user.

[0039] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for controlling the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown, both in the form of independent starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence.

[0040] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for controlling the functions by an external user device.

[0041] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for controlling the functions by user devices in the vehicle.

[0042] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for adapting functions related to starting and / or shutting down the engine to the control during driving under user control. In one version, all malfunction codes related to a start / stop functionality are routinely generated, but a vehicle user can disregard them when applying the method according to the invention.

[0043] The device may comprise: - a means suitable for adapting the generation of malfunction codes to the control during control under the control of the user.

[0044] Various means are described here that are proposed for performing a certain function. It should be noted that the means is designed or intended to perform the functions.

[0045] One aspect of the invention is a proposed motor vehicle equipped with a device according to any one of claims 9 to 16. The vehicle may be any of a truck, bus, or car. It may be a hybrid vehicle. Alternatively, it may be a lift truck, a dump truck, a bucket-wheel excavator, a crane, a forestry machine, a mining machine, a commercial vehicle, or another suitable platform.

[0046] One aspect of the invention is a proposed computer program for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the program comprising program code stored on a computer-readable medium for causing an electronic unit or another computer connected to the electronic unit to perform steps according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[0047] One aspect of the invention is a proposed computer program for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the program comprising program code for causing an electronic unit or another computer connected to the electronic unit to perform steps according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

[0048] One aspect of the invention is a proposed computer program product comprising program code stored on a computer-readable medium for performing method steps according to any one of claims 1 to 8 when the program code is executed on an electronic control unit or another computer connected to the electronic control unit.

[0049] Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following details, as well as from practice of the invention. While the invention is described below, it is to be understood that it is not limited to the specific details described. Those skilled in the art, having access to the present teachings, will recognize further applications, modifications, and integrations in other fields that fall within the scope of the invention. Short description of the drawings

[0050] To more fully understand the present invention and its further objects and advantages, the following detailed description should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate similar elements throughout the several diagrams and in which: Fig. Figure 1 schematically illustrates a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 schematically shows a subsystem of the Fig. 1 according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 schematically shows a subsystem of the Fig. 1 according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4a is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4b is a more detailed schematic flow diagram illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a computer according to an embodiment of the invention. Detailed description of the drawings

[0051] Fig. 1 shows a side view of a vehicle 100. The vehicle shown by way of example comprises a tractor unit 110 and a semi-trailer 112. The vehicle may be a heavy-duty vehicle, e.g., a truck or a bus. Alternatively, it may be a bus. According to one aspect of the invention, the vehicle comprises a control unit with a so-called start / stop functionality. It may be a hybrid vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and an electric drive system. It may be a hybrid vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and a regenerative braking system. It may be a vehicle that has only an internal combustion engine for its propulsion, which may be a gasoline engine or a diesel engine.

[0052] The term "connection" here refers to a communication link, which may be a physical connection such as an optoelectronic communication link or a non-physical connection such as a wireless connection, e.g., a radio link or a microwave link.

[0053] The term "regenerative braking system" refers here to a suitable regenerative braking system designed to store transmitted energy and subsequently use the stored energy in suitable ways. While a parallel hybrid system comprising an energy storage device and an electric machine is described here, this is merely an example of a regenerative braking system.

[0054] The term "routine driving" of the vehicle 100 refers herein to the usual, normal, or customary driving thereof. It covers various types of driving of the vehicle that occur in its everyday use. In one example, such use includes everyday driving in urban environments where the vehicle must occasionally come to a stop at a traffic light or road sign, or in a queue or traffic jam. In another example, such use includes everyday driving in urban environments where the vehicle must start from a standstill, e.g., after stopping at a traffic light or road sign. The start and stop arrangement is described herein as being intended for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving, which is to be interpreted as described above.

[0055] The method according to the invention and the device according to the invention are, in one aspect of the invention, well-suited for platforms other than motor vehicles, e.g., watercraft. The watercraft can be of any type, e.g., motorboats, steamers, ferries, submarines, hovercraft, or ships.

[0056] The method according to the invention and the device according to the invention are, under one aspect of the invention, also well suited for a rock crusher or the like.

[0057] The method according to the invention and the device according to the invention are, under one aspect of the invention, also well suited for systems comprising, for example, industrial engines and / or motor-driven industrial engines.

[0058] The method according to the invention and the device according to the invention are, in one aspect of the invention, also well suited for various types of power plants, e.g., an electric power plant comprising a diesel generator.

[0059] The method according to the invention and the device according to the invention are also well suited for any suitable drive system comprising a prime mover and a start / stop functionality, e.g. on a locomotive or other platform.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows a parallel hybrid system 299 of the vehicle 100. The parallel hybrid system is located in the tractor 110.

[0061] The parallel hybrid system 299 includes an internal combustion engine 230 having an output shaft 235 connected to a clutch 240, which may be any suitable clutch. It could be a slipper clutch with a pressure plate and disc. Alternatively, the clutch may be implemented as a so-called lock-up function in a torque converter if the vehicle's transmission includes an automatic transmission. The clutch is connected to an input shaft 245 of a transmission 260. The transmission has an output shaft 265 connected to a torque distributor 270 for transmitting power to a series of traction wheels 280 via respective drive shafts 275.

[0062] The parallel hybrid system 299 further includes an electric machine configuration including an electric machine 250 disposed on the input shaft 245 of the transmission 260. The electric machine is electrically connected to an energy storage device 255. In one example, the electric machine may be configured for a motive power output of 60 to 120 kW. The energy storage device may be of any suitable type. In one example, it may be a battery of any type, e.g., a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, it may be, e.g., a NiMH battery. In another example, it may be an electrochemical energy storage device, e.g., an electrochemical capacitor, a so-called SuperCap. The energy storage device is exemplified here by a battery of a conventional type for parallel hybrid systems.

[0063] The electric machine 250 is configured in one version to be powered by the energy storage device 255 and thereby serve as a prime mover for the vehicle's drivetrain, transferring drive torque to the transmission input shaft 245. The electric machine is configured in one version to serve as a generator for the electric machine configuration and thus charge the energy storage device 255 during vehicle braking. The electric machine can typically alternate between serving as a motor and generator. During regenerative braking of the vehicle, a braking torque is applied to the input shaft 245, thereby charging the energy storage device 255.

[0064] In this exemplary embodiment, the battery 255 is electrically connected to an electrical rectifier 253 via a cable L255. The rectifier is adapted to convert a DC voltage drawn from the battery via the cable L255 into a desired, suitable three-phase voltage. The rectifier is adapted to supply this three-phase voltage to the electric machine 250 via a cable L253 to power and operate the electric machine. The DC voltage can be up to several hundred volts, e.g., 300 or 700 volts.

[0065] The electric machine configuration includes the electric machine 250, the rectifier 253, the battery 255 and the necessary connections between them.

[0066] The rectifier is suitably designed to respond to regenerative braking of the vehicle by converting a three-phase voltage generated by the electric machine 250 and supplied to the rectifier into a DC voltage. The rectifier is designed to supply the DC voltage to the battery 255 via a cable L255 to charge the battery.

[0067] The electrical machine configuration referred to here is in the form of a component configuration comprising the electrical machine 250, the cable L253, the rectifier 253, the cable L255, and the energy storage device 255. However, it should be noted that various versions of the electrical machine configuration are conceivable. In one version, the energy storage device and the rectifier may be manufactured as an integral unit that is electrically connected to the electrical machine. In another version, the rectifier and the electrical machine may be manufactured as an integral unit that is connected to the energy storage device. In a third version, the energy storage device, the rectifier, and the electrical machine may be manufactured as an integral unit.

[0068] In one version, at least one load unit 290 is electrically connected to an output side of the battery 255 and could be, for example, an auxiliary (air conditioning) AC unit or cab fan. The battery 255 is adapted to power the at least one load unit 290. In another version, the parallel hybrid system does not include such a load unit. Alternatively, the load unit may be configured to be powered directly by a power source other than the battery 255, for example, by the electric machine 250.

[0069] A first control unit 210 is configured to communicate with the engine 230 via a connection L230. The first control unit is configured to control the operation of the engine according to stored operating routines. For example, it is configured to guide a prevailing engine speed (or prevailing output shaft torque) toward a required speed (or required output shaft torque). The first control unit is provided with start / stop functionality. It is configured to switch off the engine when appropriate during routine vehicle operation, e.g., when it is stationary at a traffic light, e.g., a red light, or when loading or unloading cargo. In this context, the first control unit is configured to start the engine when appropriate during routine vehicle operation, e.g.,when traffic lights turn green or when loading or unloading of cargo has been completed.

[0070] The first control unit 210 is configured for communication with an in-vehicle communication terminal 205 via a connection L205. The terminal 205 may be located in a driver's cabin of the vehicle, e.g., as part of the dashboard. The terminal may comprise a viewing screen, e.g., a touchscreen, and may comprise a set of push buttons or other suitable means for performing the method according to the invention, e.g., for starting and shutting down the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality of the first control unit. A user of the vehicle, e.g., a driver, a workshop technician, or a service technician, may use the communication terminal 205 to control the operation of the engine via the start / stop functionality stored in the first control unit.A user of the vehicle can thus use the terminal 205 to manually shut off the engine via the start / stop functionality. A user can also use the terminal 205 to manually start the engine via the start / stop functionality.

[0071] The first control unit 210 is configured for communication with a vehicle-external communication terminal 207 via a connection L207. The connection L207 may be a physical connection configured for separable communication with the first control unit, e.g., via an in-vehicle communication network. The network may comprise a CAN bus. In an alternative, the terminal 207 is configured for wireless communication with the first control unit. It may be a mobile electronic device. It may comprise a viewing screen, e.g., a touch-sensitive screen, and may comprise a set of push buttons or other suitable means for performing the inventive method, e.g., for starting and shutting down the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality of the first control unit.The user of the vehicle can use the terminal 207 to control the operation of the engine via the start / stop functionality stored in the first control unit. A user of the vehicle can thus use the terminal 207 to manually shut off the engine via the start / stop functionality. A user can likewise use the terminal 207 to manually start the engine via the start / stop functionality.

[0072] The start / stop functionality may take the form of a start and stop arrangement that may be integrated into the first control unit 210 or the second control unit 220. In such cases, the start / stop functionality is implemented in the form of software code executed by the first control unit 210 and / or the second control unit 220.

[0073] A series of conditions related to the start / stop functionality can be predefined and also stored in a memory of the first control unit 210.

[0074] In one example, a set of conditions may be present in connection with starting the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality. The predefined set of conditions may be applied when the engine is started via the start / stop functionality during routine operation. In one aspect of the method according to the invention, the predefined set of conditions may be adapted, whereby one or more of the conditions may be deactivated when the start / stop functionality is deactivated under user control according to the invention. Further conditions may also be added to the predefined set of conditions when the start / stop functionality is managed under user control according to the invention.

[0075] An example of the conditions for starting the vehicle 100 using the start / stop functionality could be that a prevailing temperature of a certain component or device of the vehicle is above or below a predefined threshold. An example of a condition for starting the vehicle using the start / stop functionality that could be added to the set of conditions is that a handbrake of the vehicle needs to be activated.

[0076] In one example, a set of conditions may be present in connection with the shutdown of the engine 230 by the start / stop functionality. The predefined set of conditions may be applied when the engine is started via the start / stop functionality during routine operation. In one aspect of the method according to the invention, the predefined set of conditions may be adapted. Thus, one or more of them may be deactivated when the start / stop functionality is managed under user control according to the invention. Further conditions may also be added to the predefined set of conditions when the start / stop functionality is managed under user control according to the invention.

[0077] An example of the conditions for shutting down the vehicle 100 by the start / stop functionality could be that a prevailing temperature of a certain component or device of the vehicle is above or below a predefined threshold. An example of a condition for starting the vehicle by the start / stop functionality that could be added to the set of conditions is that a handbrake of the vehicle needs to be activated.

[0078] Certain of the conditions for shutting down or starting the engine 230 by the start / stop functionality during routine operation or according to the method of the invention may be so-called critical conditions. If a critical condition is not met, the desired starting or shutting down of the engine by the start / stop functionality cannot occur. Any starting or shutting down of the engine when a critical condition is not met could cause damage to the vehicle's systems or to objects or individuals in its vicinity.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present invention, certain of the conditions associated with starting or shutting down may be overridden by the start / stop functionality of the first control unit 210, provided that they are not so-called critical conditions.

[0080] The first control unit is designed in such a way that if at least one critical condition is not met, it does not allow the engine to be started or switched off using the start / stop functionality.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, a user can use the in-vehicle or external communication terminal to enter a predefined sequence list specifying desired engine start and shutdown times. In this case, the first control unit is configured to control the engine start and shutdown according to the list.

[0082] In one example, a set of control actions may be present in connection with starting the engine via the start / stop functionality. The predefined set of control actions may be applied when the engine is started via the start / stop functionality during routine operation. In one aspect of the method according to the invention, the predefined set of control actions may be adapted. Thus, one or more of these may be deactivated when the start / stop functionality function is managed under user control according to the invention. Further control actions may also be added to the predefined set of control actions when the start / stop functionality function is managed under user control according to the invention.

[0083] Possible examples of such control actions related to starting the vehicle through the start / stop functionality could be that a certain shock absorber or a certain auxiliary element of the vehicle is operated or controlled in a certain way, or that an adaptation process is or is not carried out, or that cooling of a component is or is not required.

[0084] In one example, a set of control actions may be present in connection with the shutdown of the engine by the start / stop functionality. The predefined set of control actions may be applied when the engine is shut down via the start / stop functionality during routine operation. In one aspect of the method according to the invention, the predefined set of control actions may be adapted. Thus, one or more of these may be deactivated when the start / stop functionality function is managed under user control according to the invention. Further control actions may also be added to the predefined set of control actions when the start / stop functionality function is managed under user control according to the invention.

[0085] Possible examples of such control actions related to shutting down the vehicle 100 by the start / stop functionality could be that a certain shock absorber or a certain auxiliary element of the vehicle is operated or controlled in a certain way, or that an adjustment process is performed or not, or that heating of a component is required or not. An example of a control action related to shutting down the vehicle by the start / stop functionality that can be added to the set of control actions is adjusting a differential pressure sensor of the vehicle at the time of engine shutdown or immediately thereafter.

[0086] The first control unit 210 is configured to communicate with the clutch 240 via a connection L240 and is configured to control the operation of the clutch according to stored operating routines. For example, it is configured to open, contract, and close the clutch according to the stored operating routines.

[0087] The first control unit 210 is designed to communicate with the electric machine 250 via a connection L250 and to control the operation of the electric machine according to stored operating routines. Even if the connection L250 is in Fig. 2 is connected to the electric machine 250, in practice it is connected to the electric rectifier 253. In practice, the first control unit is designed to control the electric machine through the rectifier. For example, the first control unit is designed to select the direction of the electric machine according to the stored operating routines. This means that the first control unit is designed to use the rectifier to cause the electric machine to act as a motor and thus transmit drive torque to the input shaft 245 of the transmission 260. It also means that the first control unit is designed to cause the electric machine to act as a generator if necessary to charge the battery 255, e.g., during regenerative braking according to the invention.

[0088] The first control unit 210 is configured to communicate with the transmission 260 via a connection L280 and is configured to control the operation of the transmission according to stored operating routines. For example, it is configured to effect various gear changes in the transmission, including neutral, according to the stored operating routines. The transmission may be a so-called manual transmission, e.g., a robotized / automatic manual transmission, or an automatic transmission.

[0089] A second control unit 220 is configured to communicate with the first control unit 210 via a link L220. This second control unit can be detachably connected to the first control unit 210. It can be an external control unit with respect to the vehicle 100. It can be configured to execute the method steps according to the invention. It can be used to cross-load software onto the first control unit 210, in particular software for applying the method according to the invention. Alternatively, it can be configured to communicate with the first control unit via an in-vehicle network. It can be configured to perform substantially similar functions to those of the first control unit, e.g., controlling the operation of the engine 230, the clutch 240, the electric machine configuration, which includes the electric machine 250, the rectifier 253, and the battery 255, and the transmission 260.The second control unit 220 may be configured to perform substantially similar functions to those of the first control unit 210, e.g., controlling at least the start and stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0090] It should be noted that certain of the above-mentioned functions are performed by the first control unit 210 and certain of these are performed by the second control unit 220.

[0091] The first control unit 210 is designed to control the shutdown of the motor 230 under the control of the user.

[0092] It is also designed to control the starting of the engine under the control of the user.

[0093] The first control unit 210 is configured to shut down the engine 230 through a virtual shutdown command under the control of the user. It is also configured to start the engine through a virtual start command under the control of the user. The start command and the shutdown command can be executed by the user via the in-vehicle communication terminal 205 or the external communication terminal 207. The user can thus shut down or start the engine without having to use a conventional start key or start / shutdown button of the vehicle.

[0094] The first control unit 210 includes functions for starting and stopping the engine via an ignition switch, as well as a start-and-stop arrangement for temporarily shutting down the engine to save fuel during routine driving. It is designed to control the start-and-stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, it is designed to control both the start-and-stop arrangement and the function of starting and shutting down the engine via an ignition switch under user control. In an exemplary embodiment, it is designed to override at least certain existing predefined conditions that allow starting and / or shutting down the engine during control under user control.In one exemplary embodiment, it is designed to add further predefined conditions that enable starting and / or shutting down the engine while under the control of the user to existing predefined conditions. In one exemplary embodiment, it is designed to control the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown both in the form of independent starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence. In one exemplary embodiment, the first control unit is designed to control the start / stop function through an external user device, also called the vehicle-external communication terminal 207. In one exemplary embodiment, it is designed to control the start / stop function through vehicle-internal user devices, e.g., the vehicle-internal communication terminal 205.In one exemplary embodiment, it is configured to adapt functions related to starting and / or stopping the engine during user-controlled operation to the controller (adding functions not typically related to starting / stopping). In one exemplary embodiment, it is configured to adapt conditions and / or control actions related to starting and / or stopping the engine during user-controlled operation to the controller. In one exemplary embodiment, it is configured to adapt functions related to starting and / or stopping the engine during user-controlled operation to the controller. In one exemplary embodiment, it is configured to adapt the generation of malfunction codes during user-controlled operation to the controller.

[0095] When the engine 230 is shut down under user control via the start / stop functionality, the vehicle may still be running due to the hybrid system and / or other on-board systems that may be powered, activated, and / or operating.

[0096] Therefore, when the engine is switched off according to the method of the invention, it is switched off completely, ie it no longer even runs at an idle speed.

[0097] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a subsystem 399 of the vehicle 100. This subsystem is located in the tractor 110.

[0098] Subsystem 399 includes an internal combustion engine 230 with an output shaft 235 connected to a clutch 240. The clutch may be any suitable clutch. It could be a slip clutch with a pressure plate and disc. Alternatively, it could be implemented as a so-called lock-up function in a torque converter if the vehicle's transmission has an automatic transmission. The clutch is connected to an input shaft 245 of a transmission 260. The transmission has an output shaft 265 connected to a torque distributor 270 for transmitting power to a series of traction wheels 280 via respective drive shafts 275.

[0099] The subsystem 399 comprises the previously described first control unit 210 and second control unit 220, which are provided with the start / stop functionality and are thus designed to switch off and start the engine according to the method of the invention.

[0100] The subsystem 399 further comprises the in-vehicle communication terminal 205 and the out-of-vehicle communication terminal 207.

[0101] A user can thus at least configure the start and stop arrangement during functional tests of the vehicle similar to the above Fig. 2 described manually (under user control), except that in this case the vehicle is not a hybrid vehicle. The start / stop functionality can therefore be installed in the first control unit 210 and / or the second control unit 220 of a vehicle powered only by an internal combustion engine.

[0102] When the engine is shut down under user control via the start / stop functionality, the vehicle may still be running due to other on-board systems that may be powered, activated, and / or operating. Therefore, when the engine is shut down according to the method of the invention, it is completely shut down, meaning it no longer even runs at idle speed.

[0103] Fig. 4a is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having functions for starting and stopping the engine both via an ignition switch and via a start-and-stop arrangement for temporarily shutting down the engine during routine driving, according to an embodiment of the invention, to save fuel. The method comprises a first step s401, which includes the step of controlling at least the start-and-stop arrangement under user control during functional tests of the vehicle. The method ends after step s401.

[0104] Fig. 4b is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having functions for starting and stopping the engine via both an ignition switch and a start and stop arrangement for temporarily turning off the engine during routine driving to save fuel, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0105] The method includes a first step s410, which includes the step of initiating the starting of the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality. This is initiated by a user of the vehicle, e.g., via the in-vehicle communication terminal 205 or the external communication terminal 207. The user can thus send a request to start the engine to the first control unit 210 via the link L205 or L207. Step s410 is followed by step s420.

[0106] Method step s420 comprises the step of assessing the set of predefined conditions associated with starting the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality of the first control unit 210. This may include deactivating certain predefined conditions. Further conditions may be added to the set of conditions. If necessary, at least one predefined or added condition may be overwritten. It is also possible to determine whether relevant conditions of the set of conditions are met or not and whether at least one critical condition is not met.

[0107] If all of the relevant conditions related to starting the engine are met, the start can be permitted and initiated. In this context, certain predefined starting conditions can be overridden and thus deactivated, in which case step s430 follows. If all of the critical conditions related to starting the engine are met, the start can be permitted and initiated, in which case step s430 follows. If not all of the conditions, including critical conditions, are met, the method ends.

[0108] In method step s420, the control actions to be performed in connection with starting the engine are also determined using the start / stop functionality. This can include activating or deactivating certain predefined control actions. Additional control actions can be added to a predefined set of control actions related to starting the engine. If necessary, at least one predefined or added condition can be activated or deactivated.

[0109] Method step s430 includes the step of starting the engine 230 under user control via the start / stop functionality. The corresponding control actions determined in step s420 can occur simultaneously or in series. Step s430 is followed by step s440.

[0110] Method step s440, which includes the step of initiating the shutdown of the engine 230 via the start / stop functionality, is initiated by a user of the vehicle, e.g., via the in-vehicle communication terminal 205 or the external communication terminal 207. The user can thus send a request to shut down the engine to the first control unit 210 via link L205 or L207. Step s440 is followed by step s450.

[0111] Method step s450 comprises the step of assessing the set of predefined conditions associated with shutting down the engine via the start / stop functionality of the first control unit 210. This may include deactivating certain predefined conditions. Further conditions may be added to the set of conditions. If necessary, at least one predefined or added condition may be overwritten. It is also possible to determine whether relevant conditions of the set of conditions are met or not and whether at least one critical condition is not met.

[0112] If all of the relevant conditions related to engine shutdown are met, the shutdown can be permitted and initiated. In this context, certain predefined shutdown conditions can be overridden and thus deactivated, in which case step s460 follows. If all of the critical conditions related to engine shutdown are met, the shutdown can be permitted and initiated, in which case step s460 follows. If not all of the conditions, including critical conditions, are met, the method ends.

[0113] In step s450, the control actions to be performed in connection with the shutdown by the start / stop functionality are also determined. This may include activating or deactivating certain predefined control actions. Further control actions may be added to a predefined set of control actions related to the engine shutdown. If necessary, at least one predefined or added condition may be activated or deactivated.

[0114] Process step s450 is followed by process step s460.

[0115] Method step s460 includes the step of shutting down the engine 230 under user control via the start / stop functionality. The corresponding control actions determined in step s450 can occur simultaneously or in series.

[0116] The method ends after step s460.

[0117] In an alternative version, steps s440, s450, and s460 can occur before steps s410, s420, and s430. In this case, engine shutdown is initiated first via the start / stop functionality, followed by initiating engine start via the start / stop functionality.

[0118] Fig. Figure 5 is a diagram of a version of a device 500. The control units 210 and 220, which are related to Fig. 2, in one version, may comprise the device 500 itself comprising a non-volatile memory 520, a data processing unit 510, and a read / write memory 550. The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program, e.g., an operating system, for controlling the operation of the device 500 is stored. The device 500 further comprises a bus control unit, a serial communication port, an I / O means, an A / D converter, a time and date input and transfer unit, an event counter, and an interrupt control unit (not shown). The non-volatile memory 520 also has a second memory element 540.

[0119] A proposed computer program P comprises routines for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, the vehicle having functions for starting and stopping the engine both via an ignition switch and a start and stop arrangement for temporarily switching off the engine during a routine procedure in order to save fuel.

[0120] The computer program P may include routines for controlling both the start and stop arrangement and the function of starting and shutting down the engine via an ignition switch under user control. It may include routines for overriding at least certain existing predefined conditions that enable starting and / or shutting down the engine while controlling under user control. It may include routines for adding further predefined conditions that enable starting and / or shutting down the engine to existing predefined conditions while controlling under user control. It may include routines for controlling the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown both in the form of standalone starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence. It may include routines for controlling functions by an external user device.It may include routines for controlling functions by in-vehicle user devices. It may include routines for adapting functions related to starting and / or shutting down the engine to the control during control under user control. It may include routines for adapting the generation of malfunction codes to the control during control under user control.

[0121] The computer program P may be stored in an executable form or in a compressed form in a memory 560 and / or in a read / write memory 550.

[0122] When a computing unit 510 is described as performing a certain function, this means that the computing unit executes a certain part of the program stored in memory 560 or executes a certain part of the program stored in read / write memory 550.

[0123] The data processing unit 510 can communicate with a data port 599 via a data bus 515. The non-volatile memory 520 is provided for communication with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 512. The separate memory 560 is provided for communication with the data processing unit via a data bus 511. The read / write memory 550 is designed to communicate with the data processing unit via a data bus 514. The data port 599 can, for example, have the connections L205, L207, L220, L230, L240, L250, and L260 connected to it (see Fig. 2 and Fig. 3).

[0124] When data is received at data port 599, it is temporarily stored in second memory element 540. Once received input data has been temporarily stored, data processing unit 510 is prepared to perform code execution as described above. In one version, the signals received at data port 599 include information about a user requesting to start the engine, according to an aspect of the present invention. In one version, they include information about a user requesting to shut down the engine, according to an aspect of the present invention. In one version, they include information about starts and stops of internal combustion engine 230 according to a desired or predefined sequence.

[0125] The signals received at the data port 599 can be used by the device 500 to control at least the start and stop arrangement under the control of the user during functional tests of the vehicle.

[0126] Parts of the method described herein may be performed by device 500 via data processing unit 510, which executes the program stored in memory 560 or read / write memory 550. When device 500 executes the program, methods described herein are performed.

[0127] The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention is for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it intended to limit the invention to the disclosed variants. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and their practical applications, and thus to enable those skilled in the art to understand the invention through various embodiments and with the various modifications as are suitable for the particular use.

Claims

[1] A method for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine (230) of a vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) having functions for starting and stopping the internal combustion engine (230) both via an ignition switch and via a start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) for temporarily switching off the internal combustion engine (230) during a routine procedure in order to save fuel, the method comprising the following steps: - controlling (s401) at least the start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) under the control of a user during functional tests of the vehicle (100), and - overwriting (s420; s450) at least certain existing predefined conditions that enable starting and / or switching off of the internal combustion engine (230) during the control under the control of the user. [2] A method according to claim 1, comprising the step of: - Controlling both the start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) and the function of starting and stopping the internal combustion engine (230) via an ignition switch under the control of the user. [3] A method according to claim 1 or 2, comprising the step of: - adding (s420; s450) further predefined conditions enabling the starting and / or switching off of the internal combustion engine (230) to existing predefined conditions during the control under the control of the user. [4] A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of: - Control of the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown both in the form of independent starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence. [5] A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of: - Controlling the functions by an external user device (207). [6] A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of: - Controlling the functions by in-vehicle user devices (205). [7] A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of: - Adapting (s420; s450) functions related to starting and / or stopping the engine to the controller during steering under user control. [8] A method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the step of: - Adapting the generation of malfunction codes to the control during control under user control. [9] A device for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine (230) of a vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising functions for starting and stopping the internal combustion engine (230), comprising: - a start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) suitable for temporarily switching off the internal combustion engine (230) during routine driving in order to save fuel, characterized by : - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for controlling at least the start and stop arrangement (210; 220; 500) under the control of a user during functional tests of the vehicle (100), - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for overriding at least certain existing predefined conditions enabling the internal combustion engine (230) to be started and / or switched off during control under the control of the user. [10] Apparatus according to claim 9, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for controlling both the start and stop arrangement and the function of starting and stopping the internal combustion engine (230) via an ignition switch under the control of the user. [11] Device according to claim 9 or 10, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for adding further predefined conditions enabling the starting and / or switching off of the internal combustion engine (230) to existing predefined conditions during control under the control of the user. [12] Device according to one of claims 9 to 11, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for controlling the start and stop arrangement for temporary shutdown both in the form of independent starts and stops and in the form of starts and stops according to a predefined sequence. [13] Device according to one of claims 9 to 12, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for controlling the functions by an external user device (207). [14] Device according to one of claims 9 to 13, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for controlling the functions by an in-vehicle user device (205). [15] Device according to one of claims 9 to 14, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for adapting functions related to starting and / or stopping the internal combustion engine (230) to the control during control under the control of the user. [16] Device according to one of claims 9 to 15, comprising: - means (210; 220; 500) suitable for adapting the generation of malfunction codes to the control during control under the control of the user. [17] Motor vehicle (100; 110) provided with a device according to one of claims 9 to 16. [18] Motor vehicle (100; 110) according to claim 17, wherein the vehicle is one of a truck, bus or car. [19] Motor vehicle (100; 110) according to claim 17 or 18, which is provided with a hybrid system suitable for operating the motor vehicle. [20] A computer program (P) belonging to devices for controlling the operation of an internal combustion engine (230) of a vehicle (100), the program (P) comprising program code for causing an electronic control unit (200; 500) or another computer (210; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500) to perform the steps of any one of claims 1 to 8. [21] A computer program product comprising program code stored in a computer-readable medium for carrying out method steps according to any one of claims 1 to 8 when the program code is executed on an electronic control unit (200; 500) or a further computer (210; 500) connected to the electronic control unit (200; 500).

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