Methanol engine starting control method, electronic device, and storage medium

Abstract

The application discloses a methanol engine starting control method, an electronic device and a storage medium, and belongs to the technical field of engines. The method comprises the following steps: obtaining a starting instruction of a methanol engine; judging whether a methanol pump connected with the methanol engine is in a self-checking state according to the starting instruction; if the methanol pump is not in the self-checking state and methanol oil pressure satisfies a preset starting condition, obtaining a first water temperature value of the methanol engine; and judging whether the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in a methanol mode according to the first water temperature value. The methanol oil pressure is established in advance through self-checking of the methanol pump, and a lower methanol mode starting water temperature value is set, so that the technical effect of reducing oil consumption and emission of the methanol engine is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of engine technology, and in particular to a methanol engine start-up control method, electronic equipment, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the implementation of dual-carbon technologies in the automotive industry, methanol fuel is gaining increasing attention due to its advantages as a clean energy source. However, due to the characteristics of methanol fuel, it is difficult or even impossible to ignite at low temperatures. Therefore, current methanol engine fuel supply systems include both methanol and gasoline fuel supply systems, with the methanol supply system being the commonly used system and the gasoline supply system only used for cold starts.

[0003] However, even though the gasoline supply system is only used for cold starts, the fuel consumption and emissions generated during the start-up process are still at a high level. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this application is to provide a methanol engine start-up control method, electronic equipment, and storage medium, aiming to solve the problems of high fuel consumption and emissions in current methanol engines.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides a methanol engine start-up control method, the method comprising:

[0006] Obtain the start command for the methanol engine, and determine whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in self-test mode based on the start command;

[0007] If the methanol pump is not in self-test mode and the methanol oil pressure meets the preset start-up conditions, then the first water temperature value of the methanol engine is obtained.

[0008] Based on the first water temperature value, determine whether to control the methanol engine to start and run in methanol mode.

[0009] Optionally, before the steps of obtaining the start command for the methanol engine and determining whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in a self-test state based on the start command, the method further includes:

[0010] Determine whether the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine has reached a preset downtime threshold.

[0011] If the cumulative downtime reaches the preset downtime threshold, the second water temperature value of the methanol engine is obtained, and the methanol pump is controlled to perform a self-test based on the second water temperature value.

[0012] Optionally, the step of determining whether to control the methanol pump to perform a self-test based on the second water temperature value includes:

[0013] Determine whether the second water temperature value is greater than a preset first water temperature threshold and less than a preset second water temperature threshold;

[0014] If the second water temperature value is greater than the preset first water temperature threshold and less than the preset second water temperature threshold, then the methanol pump is controlled to perform a self-test.

[0015] Optionally, the step of determining whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in a self-test state according to the start command includes:

[0016] The operating status of the relay connected to the methanol pump is detected according to the start command;

[0017] If the operating status is disconnected, then it is determined that the methanol pump is not in self-test mode;

[0018] If the operating state is the suction state, then the methanol pump is determined to be in the self-test state.

[0019] Optionally, after the step of determining that the methanol pump is in a self-test state if the operating state is the suction state, the method further includes:

[0020] Control the methanol engine to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0021] Optionally, the step of determining whether to control the methanol engine to start and operate in methanol mode based on the first water temperature value includes:

[0022] Obtain the preset third water temperature threshold;

[0023] If the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and a gasoline mode start-up record of the methanol engine is detected within a preset time period, then the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in methanol mode.

[0024] If the first water temperature value is less than the preset third water temperature threshold, the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0025] Optionally, after the step of obtaining the preset third water temperature threshold, the method further includes:

[0026] If the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and no gasoline mode start-up record is detected within the preset time period, then the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0027] Optionally, after the step of controlling the methanol engine to start and operate in gasoline mode, the method further includes:

[0028] The starting water temperature of the methanol engine is detected, and a preset switching water temperature threshold and a preset running time threshold associated with the starting water temperature are obtained.

[0029] The operating water temperature value of the methanol engine in gasoline mode is obtained. If the operating water temperature value is greater than the preset switching water temperature threshold and the operating time in gasoline mode is greater than the preset operating time threshold, the methanol engine is controlled to switch from gasoline mode to methanol mode.

[0030] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, this application also provides an electronic device, the electronic device comprising: a memory, a processor, and a methanol engine start control program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, the methanol engine start control program being configured to implement the steps of the methanol engine start control method as described above.

[0031] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, this application also provides a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium, on which a methanol engine start control program is stored. When the methanol engine start control program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the methanol engine start control method described above.

[0032] The methanol engine start-up control method provided in this application first obtains a start-up command for the methanol engine. Based on the start-up command, it determines whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in a self-check state. If the methanol pump is not in a self-check state and the methanol oil pressure meets the preset start-up conditions, it obtains the water temperature value of the methanol engine. Based on the water temperature value, it determines whether to start operation in methanol mode. When a start-up command is obtained and it is determined that the methanol engine needs to be started, by combining the self-check state of the methanol pump with the judgment of the methanol oil pressure, it is determined that the methanol oil pressure in the methanol engine has been established and the self-check process has been completed. Even in an environment with poor methanol atomization, the specific start-up mode can be determined by judging the engine water temperature value. Therefore, a lower methanol mode water temperature start-up value can be set, increasing the probability of methanol mode start-up and reducing the probability of gasoline mode start-up, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in the hardware operating environment involved in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the component structure of the methanol-powered vehicle involved in the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the second embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0037] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the third embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the methanol fuel supply system involved in the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0039] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the fourth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0040] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the fifth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the sixth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application.

[0042] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0043] 101 VCU 102 EMS 103 methanol engine 104 Methanol fuel supply system 105 Gasoline fuel supply system 106 Communication lines 107 fuel delivery pipeline 201 methanol pump 202 Methanol pump circuit 203 Methanol oil circuit 204 relay 205 Methanol fuel tank 206 wire

[0044] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0045] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0046] Methanol fuel offers advantages in both emissions and fuel economy. When economic efficiency and emissions are paramount considerations, the gasoline mode operation time after gasoline start-up should be minimized. Therefore, generally, when the engine coolant temperature is below a certain minimum, the engine management system controls the engine to start in gasoline mode. Once the gasoline start-up is successful and the engine has warmed up to the required conditions (engine coolant temperature greater than the gasoline-to-methanol switching temperature, and operation exceeding the minimum time limit), the engine management system controls the fuel supply system to switch from gasoline mode to methanol mode. When the engine coolant temperature is not lower than the aforementioned minimum temperature, the engine management system controls the engine to start and operate in methanol mode.

[0047] In another strategy, when the engine coolant temperature is below a certain higher temperature T, the engine management system controls the engine to start in gasoline mode. After successful gasoline start-up and warm-up to the required conditions (engine coolant temperature greater than the gasoline-to-methanol switching temperature, and operation exceeding the minimum time limit), the engine management system controls the fuel supply system to switch from gasoline mode to methanol mode. When the engine coolant temperature is not lower than the aforementioned higher temperature, the engine management system controls the engine to start and operate in methanol mode. However, this strategy significantly increases the gasoline running time of the methanol engine after starting at normal and low temperatures, resulting in decreased emissions and fuel economy. To achieve dual-carbon goals and meet future, more stringent emission regulations, and to ensure the competitiveness of methanol engines in range-extended and hybrid vehicles, the above strategies still need further optimization.

[0048] The main technical solution of this application embodiment is as follows: obtaining a start command for the methanol engine, determining whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in a self-test state based on the start command; if the methanol pump is not in a self-test state, obtaining the first water temperature value of the methanol engine; and determining whether to control the methanol engine to start and run in methanol mode based on the first water temperature value.

[0049] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device structure of the hardware operating environment involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown, the electronic device may include: a processor 1001, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a communication bus 1002, a user interface 1003, a network interface 1004, and a memory 1005. The communication bus 1002 is used to enable communication between these components. The user interface 1003 may include a display screen or an input unit such as a keyboard; optionally, the user interface 1003 may also include a standard wired interface or a wireless interface. The network interface 1004 may optionally include a standard wired interface or a wireless interface (such as a Wi-Fi interface). The memory 1005 may be a high-speed random access memory (RAM) or a stable non-volatile memory (NVM), such as a disk drive. The memory 1005 may also optionally be a storage device independent of the aforementioned processor 1001.

[0051] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 1The structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the electronic device and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0052] like Figure 1 As shown, the memory 1005, which serves as a storage medium, may include an operating system, a network communication module, a user interface module, and a methanol engine start-up control program.

[0053] exist Figure 1 In the electronic device shown, the network interface 1004 is mainly used for data communication with other devices; the user interface 1003 is mainly used for data interaction with the user; the processor 1001 and the memory 1005 in the electronic device of this application can be set in the electronic device, and the electronic device calls the methanol engine start control program stored in the memory 1005 through the processor 1001 and executes the methanol engine start control method provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0054] This application provides a methanol engine start-up control method, referring to... Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of a methanol engine start-up control method according to this application.

[0055] In this embodiment, the methanol engine start-up control method includes:

[0056] Step S10: Obtain the start command for the methanol engine, and determine whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in self-test mode based on the start command;

[0057] In this embodiment, the executing entity can be an EMS (Engine Management System). The EMS is connected to the methanol engine via a communication line, allowing the EMS to control the methanol engine. A methanol engine is an engine that uses methanol as its primary fuel. The fuel supply system of a methanol engine can include a methanol fuel supply system and a gasoline fuel supply system, with the methanol fuel supply system being the more commonly used system.

[0058] Methanol-powered vehicles are vehicles equipped with methanol engines and capable of using methanol power. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the component structure of a methanol-powered vehicle, such as... Figure 3As shown, a methanol-powered vehicle may include a methanol engine 103, a methanol fuel supply system 104, a gasoline fuel supply system 105, an EMS 102, and a VCU (Vehicle Control Unit) 101. The EMS 102 can communicate with the methanol engine 103 via a communication line 106, such as a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, to control the starting status of the methanol engine 103. The EMS 102 can also communicate with the methanol fuel supply system 104 and the gasoline fuel supply system 105 respectively, controlling the different fuel supply systems to supply fuel to the methanol engine 103. The methanol fuel supply system 104 and the gasoline fuel supply system 102 are also mechanically connected to the methanol engine 103 via fuel delivery pipes 107 to supply fuel to the methanol engine 103. The VCU 101 and the EMS 102 are communicatively connected and can exchange commands. The methanol fuel supply system may also include a methanol pump, which pumps methanol fuel from the methanol tank to the methanol engine.

[0059] The start command for the methanol engine can be considered as an instruction to start the methanol engine. The start command can be generated by the VCU, and the EMS receives the start command from the VCU via a communication connection, starting the methanol engine. The start mode of the methanol engine is determined through subsequent steps. When the vehicle is powered on, various controllers in the vehicle are awakened and enter working state. After the VCU starts, it determines whether the methanol engine needs to be started. If it is determined that the methanol engine needs to be started, a start command can be generated. The methanol pump self-test refers to the process of detecting whether the methanol pump meets the start conditions. The self-test process needs to last for a certain period of time, and during the duration of the self-test, the methanol pump can be considered to be in a self-test state. It is understood that, provided the hardware conditions for the methanol pump self-test are met, the self-test process can be interspersed among the other steps of the method in this embodiment, and there is no specific restriction on the order of the steps. Whether the methanol pump is in a self-test state can be determined by detecting the current or voltage in the methanol fuel supply system. For example, if the detected current is a preset current value or the detected voltage is a preset voltage value, it is determined that the methanol pump is in a self-test state. For the methanol pump to self-test, it needs to be connected to the circuit to operate, therefore the current or voltage in the circuit will change.

[0060] Step S20: If the methanol pump is not in self-test mode and the methanol oil pressure meets the preset start-up conditions, then obtain the first water temperature value of the methanol engine.

[0061] The first water temperature value can be obtained by detecting the water temperature of the methanol engine after confirming that the methanol pump is not in self-test mode, or it can be obtained by directly detecting the water temperature of the methanol engine after the vehicle is powered on. It is understood that the liquid in the engine water tank includes not only water but also coolant; that is, the first water temperature value refers to the temperature of the liquid in the engine water tank. All water temperature values ​​in the embodiments of this application can refer to the definition of the first water temperature value. When the first water temperature value needs to be obtained, the EMS can send a detection command to the water temperature sensor to obtain the first water temperature value fed back by the sensor. The first water temperature value serves as the temperature basis for starting the methanol engine, determining whether the starting mode is methanol mode or gasoline mode.

[0062] Methanol fuel pressure can be considered as the pressure of the methanol injector in the methanol fuel supply system. When the pressure of the methanol injector is sufficient, methanol fuel can be injected into the methanol engine through the injector. The preset starting conditions that methanol fuel pressure should meet mainly include pressure conditions. For example, if the pressure of the methanol injector is greater than a preset pressure threshold, it means that the methanol fuel pressure meets the preset starting conditions. When the methanol pump is not in self-check mode and the methanol fuel pressure meets the preset starting conditions, it means that methanol can establish fuel pressure in advance under poor atomization conditions, improving the starting success rate of methanol mode. It eliminates the need to wait for the self-check process to complete before starting the methanol engine, meeting the user's requirement for immediate start-up.

[0063] Step S30: Determine whether to start the methanol engine in methanol mode based on the first water temperature value.

[0064] Methanol mode refers to the mode of starting and operating using methanol as fuel. Methanol fuel has different characteristics from gasoline; its atomization performance is worse at low temperatures and even worse at higher temperatures. Therefore, methanol mode startup is generally used at higher temperatures. By judging the self-check status of the methanol pump, methanol oil pressure can be established in advance, expanding the temperature range for methanol mode startup. For example, the startup temperature threshold for methanol mode can be set to 25°C. If the first water temperature is greater than 25°C, methanol mode is used for startup; if the first water temperature is less than or equal to 25°C, gasoline mode is used for startup. Generally, methanol's atomization performance is poor below 45°C. If unpredictable oil pressure is added, startup failure is likely. This embodiment avoids this problem by establishing methanol oil pressure in advance, improving the startup stability of methanol mode. In this embodiment, the startup water temperature threshold can be set in the range of 25-30°C.

[0065] In this embodiment, a start command for the methanol engine is first obtained. Based on the start command, it is determined whether the methanol pump connected to the methanol engine is in a self-check state. If the methanol pump is not in a self-check state and the methanol oil pressure meets the preset start conditions, the water temperature value of the methanol engine is obtained. Based on the water temperature value, it is determined whether to start in methanol mode. When a start command is obtained and it is determined that the methanol engine needs to be started, by combining the self-check state of the methanol pump with the judgment of the methanol oil pressure, it is determined that the methanol oil pressure in the methanol engine has been established and the self-check process has been completed. In an environment with poor methanol atomization, the specific start mode can be determined by judging the engine water temperature value. Therefore, a lower methanol mode water temperature start value can be set to increase the probability of methanol mode start and reduce the probability of gasoline mode start, thereby reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

[0066] Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application, referring to Figure 4 The method includes:

[0067] Step S40: Determine whether the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine has reached a preset downtime threshold.

[0068] After the vehicle is powered on, all controllers within the vehicle are activated and enter working mode. The EMS (Electronic Management System) then starts recording the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine and performs a step to determine whether the cumulative downtime has reached a preset downtime threshold. The cumulative downtime refers to the total time the methanol engine has been in a stopped state. In this stopped state, the methanol engine stops running, and the methanol fuel supply system ceases supplying methanol fuel to it. When the methanol engine is used in hybrid and range-extended power systems, due to the existence of a pure electric vehicle mode, there are instances where the methanol engine will not start for a period of time after the vehicle is powered on, i.e., it remains in a stopped state.

[0069] Due to its hardware characteristics, the methanol fuel supply system can typically maintain a fuel supply pressure of 80% of normal operating pressure within 20 minutes after power-on self-test. After 20 minutes, the fuel supply gradually decreases to atmospheric pressure without any discernible pattern. Therefore, when a methanol engine is started in methanol mode at a lower engine coolant temperature 20 minutes after power-on, it is very easy to start with a lean air-fuel ratio due to multiple factors such as insufficient and unpredictable fuel pressure and poor methanol fuel atomization. This can mainly cause the methanol fuel to misfire and explode, and in severe cases, it can lead to start-up failure.

[0070] The preset downtime threshold can be used as a basis for judging whether the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine meets the self-test conditions. Based on the relationship between the cumulative downtime and the preset downtime threshold, it can be determined whether to perform a self-test on the methanol pump.

[0071] Step S50: If the cumulative downtime reaches the preset downtime threshold, then obtain the second water temperature value of the methanol engine, and determine whether to control the methanol pump to perform a self-test based on the second water temperature value.

[0072] If the cumulative downtime reaches a preset downtime threshold, it indicates that the methanol engine has been idle for an extended period, and the methanol fuel pressure may be unpredictable or unable to meet the conditions for starting in methanol mode. A self-test can be performed to establish the methanol fuel pressure. In this embodiment, the preset downtime threshold can be set to 15 minutes. When the cumulative downtime is greater than or equal to 15 minutes, a second water temperature value is obtained. The second water temperature value can be obtained after the cumulative downtime reaches the preset downtime threshold, or it can be obtained after the vehicle is powered on. The second water temperature value can be used as the basis for determining whether to perform a self-test on the methanol pump. For example, if the self-test water temperature threshold is set to 40°C, a self-test is performed on the methanol pump if the second water temperature is less than or equal to 40°C, and not if the second water temperature is greater than 40°C.

[0073] In some feasible implementations, the step of determining whether to control the methanol pump to perform a self-test based on the second water temperature value may include:

[0074] Step S51: Determine whether the second water temperature value is greater than a preset first water temperature threshold and less than a preset second water temperature threshold;

[0075] Two preset water temperature thresholds, a first preset threshold and a second preset threshold, can be set to determine whether the methanol pump should perform a self-check. When the first preset water temperature threshold is lower than the second preset threshold, the atomization performance of methanol fuel is poor within the temperature range defined by these two thresholds, but the methanol pump can successfully establish methanol oil pressure through self-check and start in methanol mode. Within the temperature range of the second preset threshold, the atomization performance of methanol fuel is good, and successful start in methanol mode is possible without prior establishment of methanol oil pressure. Within the temperature range of the first preset threshold, even with prior establishment of methanol oil pressure, the success rate of methanol mode start-up is low.

[0076] The preset first and second water temperature thresholds can be set according to the atomization performance of methanol fuel. For example, the preset first water temperature threshold can be set to 25℃, and the preset second water temperature threshold can be set to 50℃. Above 50℃, methanol mode can be successfully started without prior establishment of methanol fuel pressure. Below 25℃, methanol is difficult to atomize, and gasoline mode can be used for starting. In the range of 25-50℃, prior establishment of methanol fuel pressure can improve the starting performance of methanol mode.

[0077] Step S52: If the second water temperature value is greater than the preset first water temperature threshold and less than the preset second water temperature threshold, then control the methanol pump to perform a self-test.

[0078] If the second water temperature value is greater than the preset first water temperature threshold but less than the preset second water temperature threshold, the EMS can control the relay connected to the methanol pump to engage and perform a self-test. The self-test time can be set to 1.5 seconds. If the second water temperature value is less than or equal to the preset first water temperature threshold, or greater than or equal to the preset second water temperature threshold, it is determined that no self-test of the methanol pump is required.

[0079] In this embodiment, when the methanol engine has been shut down for a long time and the methanol oil pressure is unpredictable, the methanol oil pressure is established in advance in the temperature range where the methanol starting performance is poor by setting a lower preset first water temperature value and a higher preset second water temperature value, thereby improving the starting performance of the methanol engine.

[0080] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application, referring to Figure 5 The method includes:

[0081] Step S11: Detect the operating status of the relay connected to the methanol pump according to the start command;

[0082] A relay is an electrical control device. In this embodiment, the operating state of the relay is related to the operation of the methanol pump. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a methanol fuel supply system, such as... Figure 6 As shown, methanol pump 201 is connected to methanol tank 205 via fuel delivery pipe 107, pumping methanol fuel from methanol tank 205 to methanol engine 103. Methanol pump 201 is connected to relay 204 via wire 206, and the activation or deactivation of relay 204 controls the operation of methanol pump 201. Methanol pump is connected to methanol fuel line 203 via fuel delivery pipe 107 and also to methanol pump circuit 202 via wire 206.

[0083] Step S12: If the working state is disconnected, then it is determined that the methanol pump is not in self-test state;

[0084] When the relay is in the off state, it means that the circuit between the methanol pump and the relay is not connected, and the methanol pump is not in the self-test state.

[0085] Step S13: If the working state is the suction state, then the methanol pump is determined to be in the self-test state.

[0086] When the relay is in the energized state, it indicates that the circuit between the methanol pump and the relay is connected, and the methanol pump is in a self-test state.

[0087] In some feasible implementations, after determining that the methanol pump is in a self-test state if the operating state is the suction state, the following may also be included:

[0088] Step S14: Control the methanol engine to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0089] When the methanol pump is in self-check mode and the methanol engine has been determined to start, starting in gasoline mode will start it directly. However, starting in methanol mode generally requires a check to determine if the coolant temperature is sufficient, so starting in gasoline mode is faster. Typically, when the vehicle has just been switched to a fully powered state, users have higher requirements for engine starting speed. Since the self-check process takes some time, waiting for it to complete before starting the methanol engine will affect the starting speed.

[0090] In this embodiment, the self-test status of the methanol pump is determined by the working status of the relay. When the methanol pump is in the self-test status, it is controlled to start in gasoline mode. After the vehicle is powered on, it can respond to the start command in a timely manner and start the methanol engine, which better meets the user's needs.

[0091] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application, referring to... Figure 7 The method includes:

[0092] Step S31: Obtain the preset third water temperature threshold;

[0093] The preset third water temperature threshold is the temperature value used to determine whether the methanol engine starts in methanol mode or gasoline mode. When a start command is received and the methanol pump is not in self-check mode, the start mode can be determined by judging the temperature conditions, with minimal impact on the start-up speed. Generally, methanol fuel, due to its physical properties, is used at higher temperatures. For example, the preset third water temperature threshold can be set to 25°C. The preset third water temperature threshold can be set to the same value as the preset first water temperature threshold and is associated with the methanol pump's self-check process. The methanol fuel pressure established during the self-check process helps atomize methanol within a certain temperature range during startup, expanding the usable temperature range for methanol mode startup.

[0094] Step S32: If the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and a gasoline mode start-up record of the methanol engine is detected within a preset time period, then the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in methanol mode.

[0095] If the first coolant temperature of the methanol engine is greater than or equal to the preset third coolant temperature threshold, it indicates that the temperature conditions for starting in methanol mode are met. This can be further confirmed by combining the gasoline mode start-up record. The gasoline mode start-up record refers to the record of this start-up mode after the methanol engine starts in gasoline mode. The EMS can generate and store this record after controlling the methanol engine to start in gasoline mode, providing a basis for subsequent record queries.

[0096] Gasoline has a shelf life of 15 to 90 days. During prolonged periods of high summer temperatures, if the gasoline engine is not used for a month or even longer in gasoline mode, the fuel injectors are prone to clogging due to the oxidation of residual gasoline, affecting engine operation and potentially causing damage. The preset time period can be set according to the characteristics of the gasoline. For example, setting the preset time period to 10 days, if the first coolant temperature is greater than or equal to a preset third coolant temperature threshold, and the methanol engine has been started in gasoline mode within the past 10 days, then it will start and run in methanol mode.

[0097] Step S33: If the first water temperature value is less than the preset third water temperature threshold, then control the methanol engine to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0098] When the first water temperature is lower than the preset third water temperature threshold, methanol fuel is difficult to ignite. The methanol engine can be controlled to start and run in gasoline mode, thereby improving the vehicle's starting reliability and stability.

[0099] In some feasible implementations, after obtaining the preset third water temperature threshold, the method may further include:

[0100] Step S34: If the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and no gasoline mode start-up record is detected within the preset time period, then the methanol engine is controlled to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0101] If the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and the methanol engine has not been started in gasoline mode within the preset time period, and the gasoline mode has not been used for a long time, in order to avoid the gasoline injector being blocked by the gum material produced by the oxidation of residual gasoline, the methanol engine can be controlled to start and run in gasoline mode.

[0102] In this embodiment, the starting mode of the methanol engine is determined by combining the first water temperature value and the gasoline mode starting record within a preset time period. Under the condition that the methanol oil pressure is established in advance during the self-test process, the temperature range of methanol mode starting is expanded. It can also avoid the gasoline nozzle from clogging due to long-term non-use in gasoline mode, thereby improving the starting reliability and stability of the methanol engine.

[0103] Furthermore, in the fifth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application, referring to Figure 8 The method includes:

[0104] Step S60: Detect the starting water temperature value of the methanol engine, and obtain a preset switching water temperature threshold and a preset running time threshold associated with the starting water temperature value;

[0105] When a methanol engine is started in gasoline mode, to reduce emissions, it can be switched from gasoline mode to methanol mode later when switching conditions are met. The preset operating time threshold can be considered the required duration of operation in gasoline mode, and the preset switching coolant temperature threshold can be considered the required engine coolant temperature after warming up in gasoline mode. The starting coolant temperature value refers to the coolant temperature at which the methanol engine starts. There is a correlation between the starting coolant temperature value and the preset operating time threshold and preset switching coolant temperature threshold; therefore, these thresholds can be obtained by querying the starting coolant temperature value.

[0106] The preset switching coolant temperature threshold and preset running time threshold can be obtained by looking up a table. The vehicle can pre-store a mode switching mapping table obtained from EMS calibration of the methanol engine. This table includes the mapping relationship between the starting coolant temperature value, the minimum running time in gasoline mode required to switch to methanol mode, and the minimum switching temperature reached by the methanol engine. The minimum switching temperature in the mode switching mapping table can be used as the preset switching coolant temperature threshold, and the minimum running time as the preset running time threshold. Table 1 below shows an exemplary mode switching mapping table.

[0107] Table 1

[0108]

[0109] As shown in Table 1, when the starting water temperature matches the temperature values ​​listed in the table, the minimum operating time and minimum switching temperature obtained from the table can also be determined. When the starting water temperature falls within the temperature range listed in the table, the minimum operating time and minimum switching temperature obtained from the table can match the case where the temperature value is higher. For example, when the starting water temperature is 10℃, the minimum operating time is 32s and the minimum switching temperature is 30℃; when the starting water temperature is 25℃, the minimum operating time is 25s and the minimum switching temperature is 40℃.

[0110] Step S70: Obtain the operating water temperature value of the methanol engine in gasoline mode. If the operating water temperature value is greater than the preset switching water temperature threshold and the operating time in gasoline mode is greater than the preset operating time threshold, then control the methanol engine to switch from gasoline mode to methanol mode.

[0111] When the operating coolant temperature exceeds the preset switching temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine has warmed up to a certain extent. If this temperature is maintained for a duration exceeding the operating time threshold, the engine can switch from gasoline mode to methanol mode, using methanol fuel to power the system and reduce fuel consumption and emissions. If the operating coolant temperature is below the preset switching temperature threshold, or if the gasoline mode operating time is less than the preset operating time threshold, the engine can continue operating in gasoline mode until it warms up to the required conditions.

[0112] In this embodiment, the mode switching condition is related to the start-up water temperature value, rather than using a fixed minimum running time and minimum switching water temperature. Under the condition that the hot-engine conditions of the methanol engine are met, shortening the minimum running time in gasoline mode can further reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

[0113] Furthermore, in the sixth embodiment of the methanol engine start-up control method of this application, referring to Figure 9 First, the vehicle is powered on, and all the controllers in the vehicle begin to function. Figure 9 The steps of determining whether the methanol engine needs to be started by the VCU and recording the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine by the EMS can be performed in parallel.

[0114] After the vehicle is powered on, the engine controller EMS records the cumulative downtime of the methanol engine. If the downtime reaches the preset downtime threshold t0, and the engine coolant temperature is between the preset second coolant temperature threshold T00 and the preset first coolant temperature threshold T01, the engine controller EMS controls the methanol pump relay to engage for a self-test at a time t1.

[0115] After the vehicle is powered on, if the vehicle controller (VCU) determines that the methanol engine needs to be started, the VCU sends a start command to the EMS. If the EMS determines that the methanol pump is in the self-test process, the EMS controls the methanol engine to start in gasoline mode and records the start-up coolant temperature value T1. After starting, if the engine coolant temperature is higher than the preset switching coolant temperature threshold T2 obtained by looking up T1, and the gasoline mode running time is higher than the preset running time threshold t2 obtained by looking up T1, the EMS controls the engine to switch to methanol mode. Otherwise, the EMS controls the engine to continue running in gasoline mode.

[0116] After the vehicle is powered on, if the vehicle controller (VCU) determines that the methanol engine needs to be started, the VCU sends a start command to the EMS. If the EMS determines that the methanol pump is not in the self-test process and the engine coolant temperature is lower than the threshold T01, the EMS controls the methanol engine to start in gasoline mode and records the coolant temperature T1 at the start time. After starting, if the engine coolant temperature is higher than T2 obtained by looking up T1, and the gasoline mode running time is higher than t2 obtained by looking up T1, the EMS controls the engine to switch to methanol mode. Otherwise, the EMS controls the engine to continue running in gasoline mode.

[0117] After the vehicle is powered on, if the vehicle controller (VCU) determines that the methanol engine needs to be started, the VCU sends a start command to the EMS. If the EMS determines that the methanol pump is not in the self-test process, the engine coolant temperature is not lower than the threshold T01, and the engine has not used gasoline mode within D days, then the EMS controls the methanol engine to start in gasoline mode and records the coolant temperature T1 at the start time. After starting, if the engine coolant temperature is higher than T2 obtained by looking up T1, and the gasoline mode running time is higher than t2 obtained by looking up T1, then the EMS controls the engine to switch to methanol mode. Otherwise, the EMS controls the engine to continue running in gasoline mode.

[0118] After the vehicle is powered on, if the vehicle controller (VCU) determines that the methanol engine needs to be started, the VCU sends a start command to the EMS. If the EMS determines that the methanol pump is not in the self-test process, the engine coolant temperature is not lower than the threshold T01, and the engine has been used in gasoline mode within D days, then the EMS controls the methanol engine to start running in methanol mode.

[0119] For example, the above time threshold t0 = 15 min, methanol pump self-test time threshold t1 = 1.5 s, time threshold D = 10 days, methanol engine through EMS calibration to obtain water temperature thresholds for starting mode selection in shutdown state as T00 = 50℃ and T01 = 25℃, the engine water temperature T1 recorded at the start time corresponds to the shortest gasoline start-up time t2 and the lowest engine water temperature T2 for switching to methanol mode, and the mapping relationship between T1, T2 and t2 is shown in Table 1 above.

[0120] This embodiment avoids the problem of poor methanol starting performance between engine coolant temperatures T01 and T00 by establishing methanol oil pressure in advance. Therefore, the temperature threshold for selecting gasoline mode or methanol mode to start when the methanol engine is stopped can be set to a lower threshold T01. It also reduces the overall operating time of the methanol engine in gasoline mode on the vehicle. This not only further improves emissions, but also allows the vehicle to reduce its curb weight and cost by reducing the gasoline tank volume, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of methanol vehicles. Moreover, it does not involve hardware changes or adjustments, has low implementation costs, and the results are easy to port to a platform.

[0121] This application also provides an electronic device, comprising: a memory, a processor, and a methanol engine start-up control program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, the methanol engine start-up control program being configured to implement the steps of the methanol engine start-up control method described above. Specific implementation details of the electronic device in this application are found in the various embodiments of the methanol engine control method described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0122] This application also provides a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a methanol engine start-up control program. When executed by a processor, the methanol engine start-up control program implements the steps of the methanol engine start-up control method described above. Specific implementations of the storage medium in this application are detailed in the above embodiments of the methanol engine start-up control method and will not be repeated here.

[0123] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or system that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or system. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or system that includes that element.

[0124] The sequence numbers of the embodiments in this application are for descriptive purposes only and do not represent the superiority or inferiority of the embodiments.

[0125] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk) as described above, and includes several instructions to cause a terminal device (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0126] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and do not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method of controlling the start of a methanol engine, characterized by, The methanol engine starting control method comprises the following steps: obtaining a starting instruction of a methanol engine, and determining whether a methanol pump connected with the methanol engine is in a self-checking state according to the starting instruction; if the methanol pump is not in the self-checking state and a methanol oil pressure meets a preset starting condition, obtaining a first water temperature value of the methanol engine; determining whether to control the methanol engine to start and run in a methanol mode according to the first water temperature value.

2. The control method of claim 1, wherein Before the step of obtaining a starting instruction of a methanol engine, and determining whether a methanol pump connected with the methanol engine is in a self-checking state according to the starting instruction, the method further comprises: determining whether a shutdown cumulative time of the methanol engine reaches a preset shutdown time threshold; if the shutdown cumulative time reaches the preset shutdown time threshold, obtaining a second water temperature value of the methanol engine, and determining whether to control the methanol pump to perform self-checking according to the second water temperature value.

3. The control method of claim 2, wherein The step of determining whether to control the methanol pump to perform self-checking according to the second water temperature value comprises: determining whether the second water temperature value is greater than a preset first water temperature threshold and less than a preset second water temperature threshold; if the second water temperature value is greater than the preset first water temperature threshold and less than the preset second water temperature threshold, controlling the methanol pump to perform self-checking.

4. The control method of claim 1, wherein The step of determining whether a methanol pump connected with the methanol engine is in a self-checking state according to the starting instruction comprises: detecting a working state of a relay connected with the methanol pump according to the starting instruction; if the working state is a disconnection state, determining that the methanol pump is not in the self-checking state; if the working state is an attraction state, determining that the methanol pump is in the self-checking state.

5. The control method of claim 4, wherein After the step of if the working state is the attraction state, determining that the methanol pump is in the self-checking state, the method further comprises: controlling the methanol engine to start and run in a gasoline mode.

6. The control method of claim 1, wherein The step of determining whether to control the methanol engine to start and run in a methanol mode according to the first water temperature value comprises: obtaining a preset third water temperature threshold; if the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and a gasoline mode starting record of the methanol engine in a preset time period is detected, controlling the methanol engine to start and run in the methanol mode; if the first water temperature value is less than the preset third water temperature threshold, controlling the methanol engine to start and run in the gasoline mode.

7. The control method of claim 6, wherein After the step of obtaining a preset third water temperature threshold, the method further comprises: if the first water temperature value is greater than or equal to the preset third water temperature threshold, and a gasoline mode starting record in a preset time period is not detected, controlling the methanol engine to start and run in the gasoline mode.

8. The methanol engine starting control method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized by, After the step of controlling the methanol engine to start and run in the gasoline mode, the method further comprises: detecting a starting water temperature value of the methanol engine, obtaining a preset switching water temperature threshold and a preset running time threshold associated with the starting water temperature value; The running water temperature value of the methanol engine in the gasoline mode is acquired, and if the running water temperature value is greater than the preset switching water temperature threshold value and the running time in the gasoline mode is greater than the preset running time threshold value, the methanol engine is controlled to switch from the gasoline mode to the methanol mode.

9. An electronic device, comprising: The electronic device comprises a memory, a processor, and a methanol engine starting control program stored on the memory and executable on the processor, and the methanol engine starting control program is configured to implement the steps of the methanol engine starting control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A storage medium, characterized by The storage medium is a computer readable storage medium, and the computer readable storage medium stores a methanol engine starting control program, and the methanol engine starting control program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the methanol engine starting control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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