Vehicle heating control method and device

Abstract

This application discloses a vehicle heating control method and device, belonging to the field of vehicle technology. The method includes: receiving a heating activation request; acquiring the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature; and, when the external ambient temperature is not higher than a first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than a second temperature threshold but not higher than a third temperature threshold, controlling the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree to activate the heating circuit. This application, by acquiring the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature and comparing the external ambient temperature with the first temperature threshold, avoids accidental user operation of the heating switch in high-temperature environments; simultaneously, by comparing the coolant temperature with the second and third temperature thresholds, it ensures that the engine operates at its optimal state while providing heating.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a method and apparatus for controlling the heating of a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] The vehicle's heating system mainly consists of a heater core, water valve, blower, control panel, and heating air circuits, providing functions such as heating and defrosting. Currently, the heat source for the heating system in traditional gasoline-powered vehicles is primarily engine coolant. A heating air circuit connects the engine coolant outlet and inlet, and this connection is continuous; that is, from the moment the engine starts, the engine coolant continuously circulates in the heating air circuit. When the user turns on the heater, air is delivered into the passenger compartment, and the air temperature increases with the engine coolant temperature until it reaches the user's desired heating temperature.

[0003] Since the engine coolant is constantly circulating in the heater branch, when the heater is turned on, the temperature of the engine coolant will decrease when it enters the engine from the coolant inlet. This reduces the engine's warm-up rate and combustion efficiency at low temperatures, and also affects the engine's performance stability at low temperatures. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a vehicle heating control method and device that prioritizes engine combustion performance at low temperatures, ensuring the engine operates at its optimal state while providing heating. The technical solution is as follows:

[0005] On one hand, a method for controlling the heating of a vehicle is provided, wherein the vehicle's engine has a cooling branch connected between a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet of the engine, the cooling branch being used to circulate the coolant of the engine to maintain the normal operation of the engine, and a heating branch is also connected between the coolant inlet and the coolant outlet, the heating branch including a thermostat, the heating branch being used to provide warm air to the interior of the vehicle; the method includes:

[0006] Receives a request to turn on the heater;

[0007] Obtain the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature;

[0008] When the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to open at a fixed reference opening to conduct the heating air branch.

[0009] Wherein, the first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required, the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally, the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat, the third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the combustion performance of the engine is not affected when the opening of the thermostat is adjusted according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

[0010] Optionally, after controlling the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree, the method further includes:

[0011] Monitor the coolant temperature of the engine;

[0012] If the engine coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the target opening of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature using the vehicle thermal management control strategy.

[0013] The opening degree of the thermostat is adjusted from the reference opening degree to the target opening degree;

[0014] The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

[0015] Optionally, after obtaining the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, the method further includes:

[0016] When the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the target opening degree of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature through the vehicle thermal management control strategy.

[0017] Control the thermostat to open at the target opening degree to activate the heating air branch;

[0018] The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

[0019] Optionally, after obtaining the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, the method further includes:

[0020] If the external ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to remain closed to continue shutting off the heating branch.

[0021] Optionally, the thermostat has a reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold and not higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0022] The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each opening interval corresponding to an ambient temperature interval. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature interval where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature interval.

[0023] On the other hand, a vehicle heating control device is provided, characterized in that the vehicle's engine has a cooling branch connected between the engine's coolant inlet and coolant outlet, the cooling branch being used to circulate the engine's coolant to maintain the engine's normal operation; a heating branch is also connected between the coolant inlet and coolant outlet, the heating branch including a thermostat, the heating branch being used to provide warm air to the vehicle's interior; the device includes:

[0024] The receiving module is used to receive requests to turn on the heater;

[0025] An acquisition module is used to acquire the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature;

[0026] The first control module is used to control the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree to conduct the heating air branch when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0027] Wherein, the first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required, the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally, the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat, the third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the combustion performance of the engine is not affected when the opening of the thermostat is adjusted according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

[0028] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0029] A monitoring module is used to monitor the coolant temperature of the engine;

[0030] The first determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the engine coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0031] The second control module is used to control the opening degree of the thermostat to be adjusted from the reference opening degree to the target opening degree;

[0032] The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

[0033] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0034] The second determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and through the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0035] The third control module is used to control the thermostat to open at the target opening degree to connect the heating air branch;

[0036] The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

[0037] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0038] The fourth control module is used to control the thermostat to remain closed when the external ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, so as to continue to shut off the heating branch.

[0039] Optionally, the thermostat has a reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold and not higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0040] The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each opening interval corresponding to an ambient temperature interval. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature interval where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature interval.

[0041] The technical solution provided in this application can bring at least the following beneficial effects:

[0042] Upon receiving a request to activate the heater, the system acquires the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature. If the ambient temperature is not higher than a first temperature threshold, it indicates a heating demand at that temperature. If the coolant temperature is higher than a second temperature threshold but not higher than a third temperature threshold, it indicates good engine combustion stability. In this case, the response conditions for activating the heater are met, and the thermostat is opened to a fixed reference opening degree, activating the heater circuit. This method prevents accidental operation of the heater switch by the user in high-temperature environments and ensures the engine operates at its optimal state while providing heating. Attached Figure Description

[0043] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an implementation environment provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a heating air branch circuit in operation, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a vehicle heating control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle heating control device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0048] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the implementation methods of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] Before providing a detailed explanation of the vehicle heating control method provided in the embodiments of this application, the application scenarios and implementation environment involved in the embodiments of this application will be introduced first.

[0050] A vehicle's heating system provides heating and defrosting functions. When driving in low-temperature environments, such as in winter, passengers may feel cold. The heating system provides warm air to raise the interior temperature. When there's a significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior, frost or fog may form on the windows, affecting the driver's visibility and driving safety. The heating system removes this fog or frost. Currently, the heating system in traditional gasoline-powered vehicles primarily uses engine coolant as its heat source. However, because the coolant outlet and the heating circuit are connected continuously, this reduces the engine's low-temperature combustion efficiency and performance stability. Furthermore, in the current trend of energy conservation and emission reduction, this is detrimental to fuel efficiency.

[0051] Based on this, the embodiments of this application provide a vehicle heating control method that can ensure the combustion performance of the engine at low temperatures while meeting the heating needs of the driver and passengers, thus providing an effective method for engine energy saving.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an implementation environment provided in an embodiment of the present application. The implementation environment includes an engine 101, a cooling branch 102, a heating branch 103, a sensor 104, and an engine management system 105.

[0053] The engine 101 has a coolant inlet and a coolant outlet. A cooling branch 102 is connected between the engine's coolant inlet and coolant outlet to circulate the engine's coolant and maintain normal engine operation. The cooling branch 102 consists of various components such as valves and pipes, which will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0054] Heating circuit 103 connects between the engine's coolant inlet and coolant outlet to provide warm air to the vehicle's interior. Please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 2 The heating circuit 103 includes a heater core, a thermostat, a control panel, and a blower. The heater core consists of water pipes and radiator fins, used to lower the temperature of the engine coolant and heat the cold air; that is, the engine coolant and cold air can exchange heat through the heater core. The thermostat controls the flow rate of engine coolant entering the heater core. The control panel is used by the user to turn on the heater and adjust the temperature. The blower blows a certain amount of cold air from outside the vehicle across the heater core and directs the generated warm air into the vehicle interior.

[0055] Sensor 104 includes an outside temperature sensor and a coolant temperature sensor, wherein the outside temperature sensor is used to measure the external ambient temperature and the coolant temperature sensor is used to measure the engine coolant temperature.

[0056] The engine management system 105 is used to obtain the ambient temperature measured by the outside temperature sensor and the engine coolant temperature measured by the coolant temperature sensor after receiving a heating start request triggered by the user through the control panel, and to control the opening of the thermostat based on the ambient temperature and coolant temperature.

[0057] It should be noted that the application scenarios and implementation environments described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the emergence of new application scenarios and the evolution of implementation environments, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0058] The heating control method for vehicles provided in the embodiments of this application will now be explained in detail.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle heating control method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method is applied to an engine management system. Please refer to... Figure 3 The method includes the following steps.

[0060] Step 301: Receive the request to turn on the heater.

[0061] The control panel for the heating circuit is located inside the vehicle. This control panel has a heating switch, a heating temperature adjustment button, and a heating vent. The heating switch is used by the user to turn on the heating, the heating temperature adjustment button is used by the user to adjust the desired heating temperature, and the heating vent is the valve that allows the generated warm air to enter the vehicle.

[0062] As an example, a user initiates a heater activation request via the control panel, which carries the desired heater temperature. Since the control panel is connected to the engine management system via a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus, the heater activation request is converted into a CAN signal and sent to the engine management system via the CAN bus so that the engine management system can receive the heater activation request.

[0063] CAN bus is a serial communication protocol bus used for real-time applications. It can use twisted-pair cables to transmit signals. CAN bus is also a multi-master bus system. Its messages are broadcast, meaning that all nodes detect the same data at the same time. It is a serial communication bus based on message broadcast mode, used for communication between various components in a car.

[0064] It should be noted that the control panel can be connected to the engine management system via a CAN bus or other lines, and the heating start request will also be converted into a corresponding signal and sent to the engine management system. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0065] Step 302: Obtain the ambient temperature and engine coolant temperature.

[0066] After receiving a request to turn on the heater, the system needs to obtain the ambient temperature to determine if there is a heating demand under the given ambient temperature. At the same time, it also needs to obtain the engine's coolant temperature to determine if the engine has good combustion stability under the given coolant temperature.

[0067] The external ambient temperature is measured by an external temperature sensor. After the external temperature sensor measures the external ambient temperature, it sends the external ambient temperature to the engine management system so that the engine management system can obtain the external ambient temperature. The engine coolant temperature is measured by a coolant temperature sensor. After the coolant temperature sensor measures the engine coolant temperature, it sends the coolant temperature to the engine management system so that the engine management system can obtain the engine coolant temperature.

[0068] The outside temperature sensor is mainly used to detect the ambient temperature outside the vehicle. To make it more sensitive and accurate, it is usually installed in a well-ventilated location within the vehicle, such as behind the front bumper or on the front panel of the driver's compartment. The sensing element of the outside temperature sensor uses a negative temperature coefficient resistor. When the ambient temperature changes, the resistance of the outside temperature sensor changes; that is, when the ambient temperature rises, the resistance decreases, and when the ambient temperature falls, the resistance increases. Based on the change in resistance, the outside ambient temperature is determined and then sent to the engine management system.

[0069] The coolant temperature sensor is primarily used to detect the temperature of the engine coolant. It is typically installed in the engine cooling circuit and comes into contact with the coolant. The coolant temperature sensor uses a thermistor to measure the coolant temperature: when the coolant temperature rises, the resistance decreases; when the coolant temperature falls, the resistance increases. Based on the change in resistance, the coolant temperature is determined and then sent to the engine management system.

[0070] It should be noted that the coolant of this engine can be water or other types of liquid, and this application embodiment does not limit this. When the coolant of the engine is water, the coolant temperature sensor can also be called a water temperature sensor.

[0071] For example, after receiving a request to turn on the heater, the outside temperature sensor measures the outside ambient temperature as 15°C and sends this outside ambient temperature to the engine management system. At the same time, the coolant temperature sensor measures the engine coolant temperature as 50°C and sends this coolant temperature to the engine management system, so that the engine management system can obtain the outside ambient temperature as 15°C and the coolant temperature as 50°C.

[0072] Step 303: When the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, control the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening to conduct the heating air branch.

[0073] The first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required, the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally, and the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat. The third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine's combustion performance is not affected when the thermostat opening is adjusted according to the vehicle's thermal management control strategy, and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

[0074] After obtaining the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, the ambient temperature is compared with a first temperature threshold. If the ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold, it indicates that there is a heating demand at that ambient temperature. If the ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold, it indicates that there is no heating demand at that ambient temperature. Simultaneously, the engine coolant temperature is compared with a second temperature threshold and a third temperature threshold. If the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine can operate normally at that coolant temperature, but adjusting the thermostat opening according to the vehicle's thermal management strategy will affect the engine's combustion performance. If the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine cannot operate normally at that coolant temperature. If the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, it indicates that adjusting the thermostat opening according to the vehicle's thermal management strategy will not affect the engine's combustion performance at that coolant temperature.

[0075] Therefore, when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, it indicates that there is a heating demand and the engine can operate normally, which meets the response conditions for the heating start request. However, if the thermostat opening is adjusted according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, it will affect the engine's combustion performance. Therefore, the heating start request is responded to, and the thermostat is controlled to open at a fixed reference opening, instead of adjusting the thermostat opening according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, thereby opening the heating branch and providing heating to the vehicle interior.

[0076] In some embodiments, the engine management system can input a fixed duty cycle to the thermostat, controlling the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree, thereby activating the heater core. The duty cycle is the ratio of the actual opening degree of the thermostat to its full opening degree.

[0077] After the heating air branch is activated, a certain flow rate of coolant, determined by the thermostat's opening, passes through the heater core. This flow also determines the blower's speed, allowing the blower to draw in external cold air into the heating air branch at that speed. The blower then blows this amount of cold air across the heater core, causing it to heat up and reach the user's desired heating temperature. The blower's speed is determined based on the user's desired heating temperature, the thermostat's opening, the coolant temperature, and the ambient temperature.

[0078] Because the heater core includes heat sinks, the engine coolant temperature decreases after passing through the heater core and returns to the engine through the cooling branch to circulate the engine coolant. In other words, external cold air and engine coolant achieve heat exchange in the heater core.

[0079] A thermostat is a valve that controls the flow path of engine coolant. It automatically adjusts the flow rate of coolant entering the heater core based on the coolant temperature, changing the coolant circulation range to regulate the engine's heat dissipation capacity and ensure the engine operates within a suitable temperature range. Taking a ball valve thermostat as an example, it consists of a motor, rotating gears, a ball valve, and a water pump. The ball valve thermostat controls the flow rate of engine coolant by adjusting the opening of the ball valve, thereby controlling the heat generated by the coolant. The thermostat must be kept in good working order; otherwise, it will seriously affect the normal operation of the engine. If the thermostat valve opens too late, it will cause the engine to overheat; if the valve opens too early, it will prolong the engine warm-up time, resulting in an excessively low engine temperature.

[0080] It should be noted that the thermostat can be a ball valve thermostat, or it can be any other thermostat that can change the connection between the engine's coolant outlet and coolant inlet and the heater core to a non-continuous connection. The first temperature threshold, the second temperature threshold, the third temperature threshold, the fixed duty cycle, and the fixed reference opening can be determined according to actual conditions. For example, the first temperature threshold can be 30°C, the second temperature threshold can be 45°C, the third temperature threshold can be 80°C, the fixed duty cycle is 39%, and the fixed reference opening corresponding to the duty cycle is 106°. Of course, other values ​​can also be determined according to actual conditions, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0081] For example, a received heating activation request carries a desired heating temperature of 26°C. Assume the first temperature threshold is 30°C, the second is 45°C, and the third is 80°C. The thermostat is a ball valve thermostat with a full opening of 271° and a full closing of 6°. Since the ambient temperature of 15°C is less than the first temperature threshold of 30°C, and the coolant temperature of 50°C is greater than the second threshold of 45°C but less than the third threshold of 80°C, this indicates a heating demand exists, and the engine is operating normally. However, adjusting the thermostat opening according to the vehicle's thermal management control strategy would affect the engine's combustion performance. That is, the current response conditions for the heating activation request are met. Then, the engine management system inputs a fixed duty cycle of 39% to the ball valve thermostat, controlling it to open at a fixed reference opening of 106°, thereby activating the heating circuit. Since the heating request includes a required heating temperature of 26°C, the blower speed is determined to be A based on the required heating temperature of 26°C, the opening degree of the ball valve thermostat of 106°, the coolant temperature of 50°C, and the ambient temperature of 15°C. The coolant flow rate determined by the opening degree of the ball valve thermostat of 106°C will pass through the heater core, and the blower will blow a certain amount of cold air at speed A through the heater core, thus generating 26°C warm air in response to the heating request.

[0082] In some embodiments, the thermostat has a reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than a second temperature threshold and not higher than a third temperature threshold. The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each opening interval corresponding to an ambient temperature interval. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature interval where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature interval.

[0083] In other words, when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, different ambient temperature ranges correspond to different opening ranges. The opening within an opening range is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within that range. That is, when the ambient temperature is high, the opening within the corresponding opening range is smaller, and when the ambient temperature is low, the opening within the corresponding opening range is larger. In this way, the engine management system can determine the current ambient temperature range and then select an opening from the opening range corresponding to that ambient temperature range as the reference opening, thereby controlling the thermostat to open at that reference opening.

[0084] Since the engine coolant temperature only gradually rises when the coolant temperature is above the second temperature threshold but not above the third temperature threshold to ensure normal engine operation, the opening degree within the set range is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature range. In this way, when the external ambient temperature is high, the coolant temperature required to exchange heat with the outside air may not be very high. Therefore, by opening the thermostat with a smaller opening degree, excessive coolant flow into the heater core is avoided, which could affect engine performance.

[0085] As an example, suppose the reference opening range of the thermostat is X°~Y°, and this reference opening range X°~Y° is divided into three opening intervals: [x1, y1], [x2, y2], and [x3, y3]. The ambient temperature intervals corresponding to [x1, y1] are [0, 10], [x2, y2] are [10, 20], and [x3, y3] are [20, 30]. For example, after receiving a request to turn on the heater, the obtained external ambient temperature is 15°C and the coolant temperature is 50°C. At this time, the conditions for responding to the request to turn on the heater are met, and the opening interval corresponding to the external ambient temperature of 15°C is [x2, y2]. Therefore, the reference opening can be determined to be Z°, and Z is located in the opening interval [x2, y2]. Similarly, if the obtained external ambient temperature is 5℃, then its corresponding opening interval is [x1, y1], and the reference opening can be determined to be T°, where T is located in the opening interval [x1, y1].

[0086] In some embodiments, after the thermostat is opened at a fixed reference opening, the engine coolant temperature is monitored. If the engine coolant temperature is higher than a third temperature threshold, the target opening of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature using a vehicle thermal management control strategy. The opening of the thermostat is then adjusted from the reference opening to the target opening. The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the engine combustion performance to reach the optimal state.

[0087] Continuing the previous description, once the response conditions for the heater activation request are met, and the thermostat opens at a fixed baseline to activate the heater branch, the engine's operation causes the coolant temperature to gradually rise. Therefore, it's necessary to monitor the engine coolant temperature. When the coolant temperature exceeds the third temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine's heat dissipation activation conditions are met. Furthermore, because the heat generated by the engine varies under different operating conditions, and the amount of heat that needs to be dissipated also varies, the engine coolant temperature will change according to the vehicle's thermal management control strategy to ensure optimal combustion performance under different operating conditions, meeting the vehicle's operational needs. For example, when the vehicle is operating at low speed and low load, it's necessary to maintain the engine coolant temperature. In this case, the thermostat opening needs to be reduced to minimize coolant heat dissipation. When the engine is operating at high speed and high load, it's necessary to dissipate excess coolant heat to the maximum extent possible to prevent engine overheating. In this case, the thermostat opening needs to be increased to maximize coolant heat dissipation.

[0088] Therefore, when the monitored coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the engine management system needs to determine the target opening of the thermostat based on the engine coolant temperature and follow the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and input the corresponding duty cycle to control the thermostat opening to adjust from the reference opening to the target opening. Based on the user's required warm air temperature, the thermostat's target opening, the external ambient temperature, and the engine coolant temperature, the blower speed is determined to generate warm air at the required temperature.

[0089] For example, assuming the third temperature threshold is 80°C, when the control ball valve thermostat opens at a fixed reference opening of 106°, and the heating air branch is activated, the monitored coolant temperature is 90°C as the engine runs. At this time, the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, meeting the engine's heat dissipation activation conditions. Moreover, the engine is running at high speed and high load, requiring increased heat dissipation from the coolant. Therefore, following the vehicle's thermal management control strategy, the target opening of the ball valve thermostat is determined to be X°. The duty cycle Y% corresponding to this target opening X° is then input, controlling the opening of the ball valve thermostat to be adjusted from 106° to X°. The value of X is greater than 106, but not greater than the full opening value of the ball valve thermostat, 271. Simultaneously, based on the user's required heating air temperature, the target opening X°, the external ambient temperature of 15°C, and the coolant temperature of 90°C, the blower speed is determined to be V to generate the user's required heating air. Similarly, if the engine is running at low speed and low load, it is necessary to reduce the heat loss of the coolant. Therefore, following the vehicle thermal management control strategy, the target opening degree of the ball valve thermostat is determined to be Z°. Then, the duty cycle Q% corresponding to the target opening degree Z° is input to control the opening degree of the ball valve thermostat to be adjusted from 106° to Z°. The value of Z is smaller than 106, but not less than the value of the fully closed opening degree of the ball valve thermostat, which is 6. At the same time, based on the user's required warm air temperature, the target opening degree Z°, the external ambient temperature of 15°C, and the coolant temperature of 90°C, the speed of the blower is determined to be U to generate the warm air required by the user.

[0090] In other embodiments, when a heating start request is received, the engine coolant temperature may already be higher than the third temperature threshold. At this time, the response conditions for the heating start request are also met. That is, when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the target opening degree of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature through the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and the thermostat is controlled to open at the target opening degree to conduct the heating branch.

[0091] Upon receiving a request to activate the heater, if the ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold, it indicates that there is a heating demand at that ambient temperature. If the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, it indicates that the engine coolant temperature meets the conditions for engine heat dissipation activation. At this time, the engine management system determines the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature through the vehicle thermal management control strategy and inputs the corresponding duty cycle to the thermostat, controlling the thermostat to open at the target opening degree to activate the heater branch. After the heater branch is activated, the coolant will pass through the heater core, and the blower will blow a certain amount of cold air through the heater core so that the cold air is heated after passing through the heater core to reach the heating temperature required by the user.

[0092] For example, if the first temperature threshold is 30℃, the second temperature threshold is 45℃, and the third temperature threshold is 80℃, and after receiving a request to activate the heater, the ambient temperature is 15℃, indicating a heating demand. If the engine coolant temperature is 90℃, the cooling activation condition is met. Based on this coolant temperature of 90℃, the target opening degree of the ball valve thermostat, determined by the vehicle thermal management control strategy, is X°. The corresponding duty cycle Y% is input to the ball valve thermostat, controlling it to open at X°. When the valve is opened to a certain degree, the heating air branch is activated. Since the heating air activation request carries the required heating air temperature of 26°, the blower speed is determined to be V based on the required heating air temperature of 26°, the opening degree of the ball valve thermostat X°, the coolant temperature of 90°, and the external ambient temperature of 15°. At this time, the coolant flow rate determined by the opening degree of the ball valve thermostat X° will pass through the heater core, and a certain amount of cold air will blow through the heater core to generate 26° warm air in response to the heating air activation request.

[0093] In other embodiments, after receiving a request to turn on the heater, the response conditions for the request to turn on the heater may not be met. That is, if the ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to remain closed to continue shutting off the heater branch.

[0094] Upon receiving a request to activate the heater, if the ambient temperature is higher than a first temperature threshold, it indicates that there is no heating demand at that temperature. The thermostat remains closed to shut off the heater circuit and prevent accidental activation during hot summer months. Similarly, if the coolant temperature is lower than a second temperature threshold, it indicates the engine is at a low temperature. The thermostat remains closed again, shutting off the heater circuit and preventing activation requests until the coolant temperature rises above the second threshold. At this point, the thermostat opens to a fixed baseline opening, activating the heater circuit and preventing wasted heat at low coolant temperatures. This shortens engine warm-up time and improves combustion stability at low temperatures. Therefore, the thermostat remains closed and does not respond to heater activation requests whenever the ambient temperature is higher than the first threshold or the coolant temperature is lower than the second threshold.

[0095] For example, if the first temperature threshold is 30℃ and the second temperature threshold is 45℃, after receiving a request to turn on the heater, if the ambient temperature is 32℃ and the coolant temperature is 50℃, the ball valve thermostat will remain closed because the ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold, and the heater will not respond to the request. Similarly, if the ambient temperature is 15℃ and the coolant temperature is 30℃, the ball valve thermostat will remain closed because the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, and the heater will not respond to the request.

[0096] In this embodiment, upon receiving a heating activation request, the system acquires the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, comparing the ambient temperature with a first temperature threshold. If the ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold, it indicates no heating demand, and the heating activation request is not responded to, preventing accidental operation of the heating switch by the user in high-temperature environments. Furthermore, the system compares the engine coolant temperature with a second temperature threshold. If the coolant temperature is lower than the second temperature threshold, it indicates the coolant temperature is too low, and the heating activation request is not responded to, preventing ineffective heat energy waste at low coolant temperatures. This prioritizes engine combustion performance at low temperatures, improving engine warm-up speed and shortening engine warm-up time. When the ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold, if the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than a third temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to open at a fixed reference opening degree. If the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, following the vehicle's thermal management control strategy, the thermostat is controlled to open at a target opening degree, achieving precise control of heating demand and ensuring the engine operates at its optimal state while providing heating.

[0097] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle heating control device according to an embodiment of this application. The vehicle heating control device can be implemented as part or all of the engine management system by software, hardware, or a combination of both. Please refer to... Figure 4 The device includes a receiving module 401, an acquisition module 402, and a first control module 403.

[0098] Receiver module 401 is used to receive heating start requests;

[0099] The acquisition module 402 is used to acquire the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature;

[0100] The first control module 403 is used to control the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree to conduct the heating air branch when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0101] The first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required; the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally; the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat; the third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine's combustion performance is not affected when the thermostat opening is adjusted according to the vehicle's thermal management control strategy; and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

[0102] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0103] The monitoring module is used to monitor the engine's coolant temperature;

[0104] The first determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the engine coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0105] The second control module is used to adjust the opening degree of the thermostat from the reference opening degree to the target opening degree.

[0106] Among them, the vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the engine's combustion performance to achieve the optimal state.

[0107] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0108] The second determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0109] The third control module is used to control the thermostat to open to the target opening degree in order to conduct the heating air branch;

[0110] Among them, the vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the engine's combustion performance to achieve the optimal state.

[0111] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0112] The fourth control module is used to control the thermostat to remain closed when the external ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, so as to continue to shut off the heating branch.

[0113] Optionally, the thermostat has a reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold and not higher than the third temperature threshold.

[0114] The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each corresponding to an ambient temperature range. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature range where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature range.

[0115] In this embodiment, upon receiving a heating activation request, the system acquires the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, comparing the ambient temperature with a first temperature threshold. If the ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold, it indicates no heating demand, and the heating activation request is not responded to, preventing accidental operation of the heating switch by the user in high-temperature environments. Furthermore, the system compares the engine coolant temperature with a second temperature threshold. If the coolant temperature is lower than the second temperature threshold, it indicates the coolant temperature is too low, and the heating activation request is not responded to, preventing ineffective heat energy waste at low coolant temperatures. This prioritizes engine combustion performance at low temperatures, improving engine warm-up speed and shortening engine warm-up time. When the ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold, if the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than a third temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to open at a fixed reference opening degree. If the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, following the vehicle's thermal management control strategy, the thermostat is controlled to open at a target opening degree, achieving precise control of heating demand and ensuring the engine operates at its optimal state while providing heating.

[0116] It should be noted that the vehicle heating control device provided in the above embodiments is only illustrated by the division of the above functional modules. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above. In addition, the vehicle heating control device and the vehicle heating control method embodiments provided in the above embodiments belong to the same concept, and the specific implementation process can be found in the method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0117] It should be understood that "at least one" as mentioned herein refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more. In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. In addition, in order to clearly describe the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first," "second," etc., do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first," "second," etc., are not necessarily different.

[0118] It should be noted that the information (including but not limited to user device information, user personal information, etc.), data (including but not limited to data used for analysis, data stored, data displayed, etc.) and signals involved in the embodiments of this application are all authorized by the user or fully authorized by all parties, and the collection, use and processing of related data must comply with the relevant laws, regulations and standards of the relevant countries and regions.

[0119] The above descriptions are embodiments provided in this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method of controlling a heater for a vehicle, characterized by, The vehicle's engine has a cooling branch connecting the engine's coolant inlet and outlet. This cooling branch circulates the engine's coolant to maintain normal engine operation. A heating branch, including a thermostat, is also connected between the coolant inlet and outlet to provide warm air to the vehicle's interior. The method includes: Receives a request to turn on the heater; Obtain the ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature; When the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to open at a fixed reference opening to conduct the heating air branch. If the external ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, the thermostat is controlled to remain closed to continue shutting off the heating branch. Wherein, the first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required, the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally, the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat, the third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the combustion performance of the engine is not affected when the opening of the thermostat is adjusted according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, After the thermostat is opened to a fixed reference opening degree, the method further includes: Monitor the coolant temperature of the engine; If the engine coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the target opening of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature using the vehicle thermal management control strategy. The opening degree of the thermostat is adjusted from the reference opening degree to the target opening degree; The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, After obtaining the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature, the method further includes: When the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold, the target opening degree of the thermostat is determined based on the coolant temperature by the vehicle thermal management control strategy. Control the thermostat to open at the target opening degree to activate the heating air branch; The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

4. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The thermostat has a corresponding reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold and not higher than the third temperature threshold. The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each opening interval corresponding to an ambient temperature interval. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature interval where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature interval.

5. A vehicle heating control device, characterized in that, The vehicle's engine has a cooling branch connecting the engine's coolant inlet and outlet. This cooling branch circulates the engine's coolant to maintain normal engine operation. A heating branch, including a thermostat, is also connected between the coolant inlet and outlet to provide warm air to the vehicle's interior. The device includes: The receiving module is used to receive requests to turn on the heater; An acquisition module is used to acquire the external ambient temperature and the engine coolant temperature; The first control module is used to control the thermostat to open at a fixed reference opening degree to conduct the heating air branch when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold but not higher than the third temperature threshold. The fourth control module is used to control the thermostat to remain closed when the external ambient temperature is higher than the first temperature threshold or the coolant temperature is not higher than the second temperature threshold, so as to continue to shut off the heating branch. Wherein, the first temperature threshold refers to the highest ambient temperature where heating is required, the second temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the engine can operate normally, the reference opening is less than the full opening of the thermostat, the third temperature threshold refers to the lowest coolant temperature at which the combustion performance of the engine is not affected when the opening of the thermostat is adjusted according to the vehicle thermal management control strategy, and the third temperature threshold is greater than the second temperature threshold.

6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The device further includes: A monitoring module is used to monitor the coolant temperature of the engine; The first determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the engine coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold. The second control module is used to control the opening degree of the thermostat to be adjusted from the reference opening degree to the target opening degree; The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The device further includes: The second determining module is used to determine the target opening degree of the thermostat based on the coolant temperature and the vehicle thermal management control strategy when the external ambient temperature is not higher than the first temperature threshold and the coolant temperature is higher than the third temperature threshold. The third control module is used to control the thermostat to open at the target opening degree to connect the heating air branch; The vehicle thermal management control strategy is used to control the combustion performance of the engine to achieve the optimal state.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The thermostat has a corresponding reference opening range, which refers to the thermostat opening range that maintains normal engine operation when the coolant temperature is higher than the second temperature threshold and not higher than the third temperature threshold. The reference opening range is divided into multiple opening intervals, each opening interval corresponding to an ambient temperature interval. The reference opening is an opening within the opening interval corresponding to the ambient temperature interval where the external ambient temperature is located, and the opening within the opening interval is inversely proportional to the ambient temperature within the corresponding ambient temperature interval.

Images