Oil level measurement methods, devices, equipment and storage media

Abstract

This application discloses a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for measuring engine oil level. In the field of engine technology, the method for measuring engine oil level is disclosed. The method is applied to an engine oil level measuring unit, including an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The oil dipstick tube contains a first channel and a second channel forming a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located in the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the dipstick tube. The method includes: when the engine is in a first stopped state, controlling the electronically controlled valve to open and close according to a preset method; when the opening and closing operation of the electronically controlled valve ends, adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the engine oil temperature; and when the temperature indicator light is illuminated, measuring the engine oil level according to the dipstick. This method ensures the accuracy and repeatability of the engine oil level measurement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of engine technology, and in particular to methods, devices, equipment and storage media for measuring engine oil level. Background Technology

[0002] Engines are equipped with oil level gauges to measure the oil level in the oil pan, determining whether the oil level has increased or decreased within the maintenance cycle and whether it needs to be added or changed. Traditionally, the oil dipstick is inserted below the oil level in the oil pan through a dedicated dipstick tube. The dipstick has markings indicating the minimum and maximum oil levels. To read the oil level, the standard procedure is to start the engine and warm it up to the specified temperature, then let it stop for a while before pulling out the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean cloth, inserting it back into the dipstick tube, pulling it out again, and reading the oil level. However, this method can lead to significant errors in the measured oil level. If users do not follow the standard procedure, the measured oil level will be unreliable.

[0003] The above content is only used to help understand the technical solution of this application and does not represent an admission that the above content is prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this application is to provide a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for measuring engine oil level, aiming to solve the technical problem that the existing technology cannot accurately measure the engine oil level in the engine oil pan.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application proposes a method for measuring engine oil level. The method is applied to an engine oil level measuring unit, which includes an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The oil dipstick tube includes a first channel and a second channel, which form a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located in the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube.

[0006] The oil level measurement method includes:

[0007] When the engine is in the first shutdown state, the electronically controlled valve is controlled to open and close in a preset manner.

[0008] When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, the working status of the temperature indicator light is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0009] When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level using the oil dipstick.

[0010] In one embodiment, before the step of controlling the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner when the engine is in a preset shutdown state, the method further includes:

[0011] Obtain engine operating information within a preset time period;

[0012] The engine downtime is determined based on the operating information;

[0013] When the downtime is less than the first time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be the first downtime state.

[0014] In one embodiment, the oil dipstick tube further includes a resistance heating wire located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube;

[0015] After the step of determining the engine downtime based on the operating information, the method further includes:

[0016] When the downtime is not less than the second time interval, the engine is determined to be in a second downtime state, where the second time interval is greater than the first time interval.

[0017] According to the second shutdown state, the resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating, and the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is acquired in real time;

[0018] Adjust the operating status of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature;

[0019] When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level using the oil dipstick.

[0020] In one embodiment, the step of controlling the electrically controlled valve to open and close according to a preset method includes:

[0021] Control the solenoid valve to be energized, and obtain the duration of the energization of the solenoid valve;

[0022] When the energizing duration reaches the preset duration, the solenoid valve is de-energized.

[0023] In one embodiment, the oil dipstick tube further includes a resistance heating wire located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube;

[0024] The step of adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light based on the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor includes:

[0025] When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is lower than the preset temperature threshold, the resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating and the current oil temperature is obtained.

[0026] When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light is switched to the illuminated state.

[0027] In one embodiment, the step of adjusting the operating state of the temperature indicator light based on the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor includes:

[0028] When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is greater than a preset temperature threshold, the duration of the shutdown is obtained.

[0029] The current oil temperature is obtained when the duration of the shutdown is greater than the third time interval;

[0030] When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light is switched to the illuminated state.

[0031] In one embodiment, the oil level measuring unit further includes a trigger control located at the top of the oil dipstick;

[0032] The step of adjusting the operating state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor after the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed includes:

[0033] When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, the operation information of the trigger control is obtained;

[0034] The current functional status of the liquid level measurement function is determined based on the operation information;

[0035] When the current function is enabled, the operating state of the temperature indicator light is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0036] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, this application also proposes an oil level measuring device, which includes: a control module, used to control the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner when the engine is in a first shutdown state;

[0037] An adjustment module is used to adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor when the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed.

[0038] The measurement module is used to measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick when the temperature indicator light is on.

[0039] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, this application also proposes an oil level measuring device, the device comprising: a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, the computer program being configured to implement the steps of the oil level measuring method described above.

[0040] In addition, to achieve the above objectives, this application also proposes a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium, on which a computer program is stored, and when the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the oil level measurement method described above.

[0041] This application provides a method for measuring engine oil level. The method is applied to an engine oil level measuring unit, which includes an oil dipstick tube and an oil dipstick. The oil dipstick tube contains a first channel, a second channel, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The first and second channels form a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located within the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube. The method includes: when the engine is in a first stopped state, controlling the electronically controlled valve to open and close according to a preset method; when the opening and closing operation of the electronically controlled valve ends, adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light based on the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor; and when the temperature indicator light is illuminated, measuring the engine oil level according to the oil dipstick. In this way, when the solenoid valve is energized, the dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan through the first channel; when the solenoid valve is de-energized, the dipstick tube is disconnected from the oil pan. At the same time, the oil temperature can be obtained in real time through the temperature sensor, and the indicator light will provide feedback on the oil temperature. When the indicator light is on, the oil level is measured, which ensures the accuracy of the oil level measurement in the engine oil pan and the repeatability of the measurement results. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application.

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

[0044] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the oil level measurement method of this application.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the oil level measuring unit structure of the oil level measuring method provided in Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 2 of the oil level measurement method of this application.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the measuring device structure based on a temperature control valve for the oil level measurement method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0048] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cold-state oil level measurement process of the oil level measurement method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the hot oil level measurement process of the oil level measurement method provided in Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0050] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the module structure of the oil level measuring device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the equipment structure of the hardware operating environment involved in the oil level measurement method in the embodiments of this application.

[0052] The purpose, features, and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0053] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0054] To better understand the technical solution of this application, a detailed description will be provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0055] The main solution of this application embodiment is: when the engine is in the first shutdown state, the electronic control valve is controlled to open and close in a preset manner; when the opening and closing operation of the electronic control valve ends, the working state of the temperature indicator is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor; when the working state of the temperature indicator is lit, the oil level is measured according to the oil dipstick.

[0056] Traditionally, checking the engine oil level with a dipstick requires starting the engine and running it for a period of time to allow the oil temperature in the oil pan to rise to a certain level. Then, the engine is stopped and left to cool for a while before the oil level is checked using the dipstick. Since engines generally don't have an oil temperature sensor, the oil temperature cannot be accurately controlled after starting or stopping the engine. The oil temperature can only be roughly estimated based on the engine's running or stopping time. Therefore, it's common practice to specify how long to run the engine and then how long to stop before reading the oil level on the dipstick. Because the oil temperature is uncontrollable, the oil level reading is very inaccurate. Furthermore, during engine operation, the oil pump continuously draws oil from the oil pan, filling the entire engine's lubrication system. After lubricating various oil passages and components, the oil returns to the oil pan through the cylinder return passages, creating a continuous circulation of oil. When the engine is stopped for a short time, a large amount of oil (about 0.6L or more) is stored in the engine oil passages. At this time, the oil level reading on the dipstick is L1. After the engine is stopped for a long time (for example, more than 8 hours), most of the oil in the engine oil passages has fallen back into the oil pan. At this time, the oil level reading on the dipstick is L2. Generally, the difference between L2 and L1 is greater than 0.6L, which leads to a large difference in the oil level reading on the dipstick under different shutdown times.

[0057] In summary, the traditional oil dipstick reading has a relatively large error, mainly due to the following reasons: 1. Firstly, different engine running times result in different oil temperatures and significant differences in oil density, leading to different oil levels; 2. Different downtimes also cause significant differences in oil levels (the difference in oil level between 5 minutes and 8 hours of downtime is 0.6L); 3. If customers do not follow the standard operating procedure when checking the dipstick, the oil level readings obtained from the dipstick will be too inconsistent to be of any reference value.

[0058] This application utilizes a solenoid valve to connect the dipstick tube to the oil pan via the first channel when the solenoid valve is energized, and disconnects the dipstick tube from the oil pan when the solenoid valve is de-energized. Simultaneously, the oil temperature can be acquired in real time via a temperature sensor, and an indicator light provides feedback on the oil temperature. When the indicator light is illuminated, the oil level is measured, ensuring the accuracy and repeatability of the oil level measurement in the engine oil pan.

[0059] It should be noted that the executing entity in this embodiment can be a computing service device with data processing, network communication, and program execution functions, such as a tablet computer, personal computer, or mobile phone, or an electronic device or oil level measuring device capable of performing the above functions. The following description uses an oil level measuring device as an example to illustrate this embodiment and the subsequent embodiments.

[0060] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a method for measuring engine oil level, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the oil level measurement method of this application.

[0061] In this embodiment, the oil level measurement method is applied to an oil level measurement unit, which includes an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The oil dipstick tube includes a first channel and a second channel, which form a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located in the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube. The oil level measurement method includes steps S10 to S30:

[0062] It should be noted that the engine, such as Figure 2 As shown, channel 1 is the first channel, and channel 2 is the second channel. The engine includes the cylinder block oil return passage, the oil pan, and the oil level measuring unit. The oil level measuring unit includes a dipstick handle, a dipstick sealing ring, an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronic control valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The oil dipstick tube includes the first channel and the second channel, which form a U-shaped tube structure.

[0063] It is understood that the first and second channels in the oil dipstick tube form a U-shaped tube structure, ensuring that the oil level in the dipstick tube and the oil pan is consistent when the first and second channels are connected. An electronically controlled valve is installed in the first channel. When the valve is energized, the oil dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan through the first channel; when the valve is de-energized, the dipstick tube is disconnected from the oil pan. The electronically controlled valve is electrically connected to the engine control system, which can control its opening and closing. A temperature sensor is installed at the bottom of the first channel to measure the oil temperature inside the dipstick tube. A resistance heating wire is installed at the bottom of the dipstick tube to heat the oil inside. The temperature sensor measures the oil temperature in the dipstick tube in real time. When the oil temperature reaches the target temperature, the resistance heating wire stops heating, and the temperature indicator light illuminates. In this embodiment, oil level measurement cannot be performed while the engine is running. Therefore, the electronically controlled valve is not energized when the engine is running, and the oil pan and oil dipstick tube are not connected.

[0064] In the specific implementation, the lower opening of the oil dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan via a first channel, and the first channel at the lower end of the dipstick tube is located below the oil level in the oil pan. The middle part of the oil dipstick tube is also connected to the position above the oil level in the oil pan via a second channel. The oil dipstick is inserted into the dipstick tube, and the head of the dipstick has a handle, which can be used to pull out and insert the dipstick. A sealing ring is installed between the dipstick head and the dipstick tube to ensure a tight seal. A steel plate or wire is connected below the dipstick head, and the bottom of the dipstick is marked with minimum and maximum oil level markings. Since the middle part of the dipstick tube is connected to the part above the oil level in the oil pan via the second channel, and the lower end of the dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan via the first channel, according to the U-shaped tube connection principle, the oil level inside the dipstick tube is the same as the oil level inside the oil pan.

[0065] Step S10: When the engine is in the first shutdown state, control the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner.

[0066] It should be noted that the first shutdown state refers to the state of the engine when it transitions from running to shutting down, at which point the engine has just stopped or the shutdown time has not exceeded the set shutdown time threshold. The preset method refers to energizing the electronically controlled valve after the engine stops and then de-energizing it after a preset delay. In this embodiment, the preset delay time is set to 1 minute, but it can be set to other values ​​as needed; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. When the engine is in the first shutdown state, the electronically controlled valve is opened and closed according to the preset method.

[0067] In one feasible implementation, step S10 may include: steps A11 to A12:

[0068] Step A11: Control the solenoid valve to be energized and obtain the duration of energization of the solenoid valve.

[0069] Step A12: When the energization duration reaches the preset duration, control the solenoid valve to de-energize.

[0070] It should be noted that when the engine is in the first shutdown state, the electronically controlled valve is energized, and the duration of energization is acquired. When the energization duration reaches the preset duration, the solenoid valve is de-energized. In this embodiment, the preset duration is set to 1 minute, but it can be set to other values ​​as needed; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0071] Understandably, the above on / off operation connects the oil pan and the oil dipstick tube for a preset duration after the engine stops, and then disconnects the oil pan and the oil dipstick tube, thus ensuring that the time for oil to return from the engine is only the preset duration.

[0072] Step S20: When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve ends, adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0073] It should be noted that after the control valve is energized and de-energized after a preset delay, the on / off operation of the control valve is complete. If it is necessary to measure the oil level in the oil pan at this time, the oil temperature in the dipstick tube is collected by a temperature sensor. When the oil temperature reaches the required level, the temperature indicator light is adjusted to illuminate. In this embodiment, the operating state of the temperature indicator light includes, but is not limited to, an illuminated state and an off state.

[0074] In one feasible embodiment, the oil dipstick tube further includes a resistance heating wire, which is located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube; step S20 may include: steps B11 to B12:

[0075] Step B11: When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is lower than the preset temperature threshold, control the resistance heating wire to start heating and obtain the current oil temperature.

[0076] It should be noted that when measuring the oil level in the oil pan, if the oil temperature is lower than a preset temperature threshold, the resistance heating wire heats the oil inside the oil dipstick tube, and the temperature sensor measures the oil temperature inside the dipstick tube in real time. In this embodiment, the current oil temperature refers to the oil temperature collected in real time by the temperature sensor during the heating process of the resistance heating wire; the preset temperature threshold ranges from 50℃ ± 2℃, but can also be set to other ranges as needed, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0077] Step B12: When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light to the illuminated state.

[0078] It should be noted that when the current engine oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light will illuminate, changing its status from off to on. Once the temperature indicator light is on, the engine oil level in the oil pan can be read using the dipstick. This ensures that the oil temperature is consistent when the oil level is read, thus guaranteeing that the engine oil return time and oil temperature are consistent each time the oil level is read, ensuring the accuracy and repeatability of the dipstick reading.

[0079] In one feasible implementation, step S20 may include: steps C11 to C13:

[0080] Step C11: When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is greater than the preset temperature threshold, the duration of the shutdown is obtained.

[0081] It should be noted that when the engine is in the first shutdown state and the on / off operation of the electronic control valve is completed, if the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is greater than the preset temperature threshold, the shutdown duration of the engine is obtained.

[0082] Step C12: When the shutdown duration is longer than the third time interval, the current oil temperature is obtained.

[0083] Step C13: When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light to the illuminated state.

[0084] It should be noted that the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is acquired only when the shutdown duration exceeds the third time interval. In this embodiment, the third time interval can be set to 5 minutes or other values; this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0085] Understandably, when the engine shutdown lasts longer than the third time interval, it indicates that the engine oil temperature has dropped to a certain extent. At this point, it is determined whether the current engine oil temperature has dropped to the preset temperature threshold. If so, the temperature indicator light is turned on, changing its status from off to on. If not, the engine oil temperature is continuously monitored by the temperature sensor until it drops to the preset temperature threshold, at which point the temperature indicator light's status is adjusted. In this embodiment, because the electronically controlled valve is de-energized, the oil pan and dipstick are disconnected, resulting in a lower oil level in the dipstick and a faster cooling rate. After the temperature indicator light illuminates, the oil level in the oil pan is read via the dipstick, ensuring that the engine return time and oil temperature are consistent each time the oil level is read, thus ensuring the accuracy and repeatability of the dipstick reading.

[0086] In one feasible implementation, the oil level measuring unit further includes a trigger control located at the top of the oil dipstick; step S20 may include: steps D11 to D13:

[0087] It should be noted that a trigger control can also be set on the oil level measuring unit, located on top of the oil dipstick. The trigger control can be a physical button or other forms of display, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0088] Understandably, after the user clicks the trigger control, the fluid level measurement function is activated. At this time, the engine control system measures the oil temperature through a temperature sensor and provides feedback via an indicator light. It also determines whether to heat the oil using a resistance heating wire. When the oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold T, heating stops and feedback is provided via an indicator light. Therefore, the user does not need to distinguish the engine status; when they need to measure the fluid level, they only need to click the trigger control, wait for the indicator light to illuminate, and then read the oil level value for an accurate and repeatable reading.

[0089] Step D11: When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, obtain the operation information of the trigger control.

[0090] Step D12: Determine the current functional status of the liquid level measurement function based on the operation information.

[0091] Step D13: When the current function is in the on state, adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0092] It should be noted that the operation information of the trigger control is obtained after the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed. The operation information includes a flag indicating whether the trigger control has been clicked or pressed. In this embodiment, different flags correspond to different states of the trigger control. For example, when the flag is 1, it means that the trigger control has been pressed; when the flag is 0, it means that the trigger control has not been pressed. This embodiment does not limit the specific meaning of the flags.

[0093] Understandably, when the trigger control is pressed, it means that the user needs to measure the oil level, and the oil level measurement function is activated at this time; when the trigger control is not pressed, it means that the oil level does not need to be measured, and the oil level measurement function is deactivated at this time.

[0094] In the specific implementation, the operation information can be used to determine whether the trigger control has been pressed, thereby clarifying the current functional state of the liquid level measurement function. In this embodiment, the functional state includes an on state and an off state.

[0095] In the specific implementation, when the current function is in the "on" state, the step of adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is performed.

[0096] Step S30: When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick.

[0097] It should be noted that when the temperature indicator light is on, the oil level is measured using the dipstick, ensuring that the oil temperature is consistent each time the level is measured.

[0098] This embodiment provides a method for measuring engine oil level. The method is applied to an engine oil level measuring unit, which includes an oil dipstick tube and an oil dipstick. The oil dipstick tube contains a first channel, a second channel, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The first and second channels form a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located within the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube. The method for measuring engine oil level includes: when the engine is in a first stopped state, controlling the electronically controlled valve to open and close according to a preset method; when the opening and closing operation of the electronically controlled valve ends, adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor; and when the temperature indicator light is illuminated, measuring the engine oil level according to the oil dipstick. In this way, when the solenoid valve is energized, the dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan through the first channel; when the solenoid valve is de-energized, the dipstick tube is disconnected from the oil pan. At the same time, the oil temperature can be obtained in real time through the temperature sensor, and the indicator light will provide feedback on the oil temperature. When the indicator light is on, the oil level is measured, which ensures the accuracy of the oil level measurement in the engine oil pan and the repeatability of the measurement results.

[0099] Based on the first embodiment of this application, in the second embodiment of this application, the content that is the same as or similar to that in the first embodiment described above can be referred to the above description, and will not be repeated hereafter. Based on this, please refer to... Figure 3 Before step S10, the oil level measurement method further includes steps S01 to S03:

[0100] Step S01: Obtain engine operating information within a preset time period.

[0101] It should be noted that the engine's operating information is obtained within a preset time period from the current time. In this embodiment, the operating information includes relevant information such as operating speed, running time, and downtime. For example, if the current time is 14:00:00 and the preset time period is 15 minutes, then the operating information for the period from 13:45:00 to 14:00:00 is obtained.

[0102] Step S02: Determine the engine downtime based on the operating information.

[0103] Step S03: When the downtime is less than the first time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be the first downtime state.

[0104] It should be noted that the engine shutdown time is determined based on operational information. If the shutdown time is less than the first time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be the first shutdown state, indicating that the engine has just stopped or the shutdown time has not exceeded the set first time interval. In this embodiment, the first time interval can be set to 2 minutes or other values, and this embodiment does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0105] In one feasible implementation, the oil dipstick tube further includes a resistance heating wire located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube; after step S02, steps E11 to E14 may be included:

[0106] Step E11: When the downtime is not less than the second time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be the second downtime state, where the second time interval is greater than the first time interval.

[0107] It should be noted that when the downtime is not less than the second time interval, it indicates that the engine has been stopped for a considerable period of time and has not been started. In this case, the engine's operating state is the second shutdown state. In this embodiment, the second time interval can be set to 30 minutes or other values; this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0108] Step E12: Control the resistance heating wire to start heating according to the second shutdown state, and acquire the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor in real time.

[0109] Step E13: Adjust the working status of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature.

[0110] Step E14: When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick.

[0111] It should be noted that when the engine is first stopped, the electronically controlled valve is energized for a preset duration after shutdown and then de-energized. At this time, the oil level in the dipstick tube is the same as the oil level after the preset engine return time, only the oil temperature is lower. At this point, it is only necessary to control the resistance heating wire to heat the oil in the dipstick tube, and to continuously monitor the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor. When the oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light is activated, changing its status from off to on. The oil level is then measured using the dipstick. This ensures that the engine return time and oil temperature are consistent each time the oil level is read, guaranteeing the accuracy and repeatability of the dipstick reading.

[0112] This embodiment provides a method for measuring engine oil level. This embodiment acquires engine operating information within a preset time period; determines the engine's downtime based on the operating information; and determines the engine's operating state as a first downtime state when the downtime is less than a first time interval. This method accurately determines the engine's operating state, laying the foundation for subsequent engine oil level measurement.

[0113] For example, to help understand the implementation flow of the oil level measurement method obtained in this embodiment in conjunction with the above embodiment one, specifically:

[0114] This embodiment of the oil level measurement method employs an oil level measurement unit. The unit includes a dipstick tube with channels 1 and 2 forming a U-shaped tube structure, ensuring that the oil level in the dipstick tube and the oil pan is consistent when channels 1 and 2 are connected. An electronically controlled valve is installed in channel 1. When the valve is energized, the dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan through channel 1; when the valve is de-energized, the dipstick tube is disconnected from the oil pan. The electronically controlled valve is electrically connected to the engine control system, allowing control of its opening and closing. A temperature sensor is installed at the bottom of channel 1 to measure the oil temperature inside the dipstick tube. A resistance heating wire is also installed at the bottom of the dipstick tube to heat the oil inside. The temperature sensor continuously measures the oil temperature in the dipstick tube. When the oil temperature reaches the target temperature, the resistance heating wire stops heating, and feedback is provided via an indicator light. The oil level reading is then read as an accurate and repeatable value.

[0115] In addition to the oil level measuring unit mentioned above, the oil level measuring method of this embodiment can also employ, as well as, the oil level measuring unit described above. Figure 4The oil level measuring unit shown has an oil dipstick tube whose lower opening is connected to the oil pan via channel 1. Channel 1, the lower opening of the dipstick tube, is positioned below the oil level in the oil pan, and a temperature control valve is installed on channel 1. The middle section of the oil dipstick tube is also connected to the position above the oil level in the oil pan via channel 2. The oil dipstick is inserted into the dipstick tube, and the dipstick head has a handle, allowing it to be pulled out and inserted. A sealing ring is installed between the dipstick head and the dipstick tube to ensure a tight seal. A steel plate or wire is connected below the dipstick head, and the bottom of the dipstick is marked with minimum and maximum oil level markings. Because the middle section of the dipstick tube is connected to the part above the oil level in the oil pan via channel 2, and the lower end of the dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan via channel 1, channels 1 and 2 form a U-shaped tube structure, ensuring that the oil level in the dipstick tube and the oil pan is the same when channels 1 and 2 are connected. A thermostatic valve is installed in channel 1. Assuming the initial opening temperature of the thermostatic valve is T1 (e.g., set to 40℃), the fully open temperature of the thermostatic valve is approximately T1 + 10℃, and the fully closed temperature is approximately T1 - 3℃ (thermal valve hysteresis). An indicator light for the thermostatic valve status is installed at the head of the oil dipstick. When the thermostatic valve is closed, the indicator light at the head of the dipstick is off; when the thermostatic valve is initially open, the indicator light at the head of the dipstick is red; when the thermostatic valve is fully open, the indicator light at the head of the dipstick is blue.

[0116] When using a measuring device corresponding to a temperature control valve for liquid level measurement, there are mainly three scenarios, and the measurement process in each scenario is as follows: 1. When the engine is cold, such as Figure 5 As shown, the user needs to check the engine oil level: First, open the engine hood and start the engine. At this time, observe that the indicator light for the thermostatic valve at the head of the dipstick should be in the closed position. Start the engine and run it for a while until the thermostatic valve initially opens (about 4 minutes, the oil temperature can rise from room temperature to above 40°C). The indicator light will illuminate red. At this time, channels 1 and 2 form a U-shaped tube, and the oil level in the dipstick should be consistent with the oil level in the oil pan. At this time, the oil temperature is greater than 40°C. Continue running the engine until the thermostatic valve is fully open (about 2 minutes, the oil temperature rises to 50°C). At this time, the indicator light will illuminate blue. Then, stop the engine and wait (about 5 minutes) until the thermostatic valve is fully closed (due to the hysteresis of the thermostatic valve, the fully closed temperature is about 37°C). The indicator light will go out. At this time, the oil level in the oil pan can be read through the dipstick. Since the oil temperature is approximately 37°C and the engine shutdown time is controllable (approximately 5 minutes), the amount of oil returning to the oil pan through the return channel is also controllable. Therefore, the oil level reading on the dipstick is also controllable. This ensures that the oil level reading is consistent each time, and the accuracy of the dipstick reading can be guaranteed by calibrating the dipstick scale.

[0117] 2. When switching from engine running to shutdown, such as... Figure 6 As shown, users need to check the engine oil level as follows: First, open the engine hood. Observe the thermostatic valve indicator light at the end of the dipstick. If the thermostatic valve indicator light is red or off, start the engine until the indicator light turns blue, then stop the engine and wait for the indicator light to turn off. The oil level can then be accurately read using the dipstick. If the thermostatic valve indicator light is blue, the oil temperature in the engine oil pan is higher than the fully open temperature of the thermostatic valve. However, the accurate oil temperature cannot be determined, and the engine shutdown time cannot be controlled. Therefore, wait for the thermostatic valve indicator light to turn off before starting the engine until the indicator light turns blue, then stop the engine and wait for the indicator light to turn off again. The oil level can then be accurately read using the dipstick.

[0118] 3. If the engine has been stopped for a long time, such as before starting the engine the next morning, the temperature was approximately 37°C when the engine was last stopped and the thermostatic valve was fully closed. After the thermostatic valve is fully closed, the oil returning to the oil pan through the return passage will not enter the oil dipstick tube, creating a height difference between the dipstick tube and the oil in the oil pan. In this case, reading the oil level on the dipstick without starting the engine is relatively accurate. Only the difference in oil temperature leads to a difference in oil density, which may cause a slight error, but this avoids the larger error caused by different oil return volumes due to different shutdown times.

[0119] It should be noted that the above examples are only for understanding this application and do not constitute a limitation on the oil level measurement method of this application. Any simple modifications based on this technical concept are within the protection scope of this application.

[0120] This application also provides an oil level measuring device; please refer to... Figure 7 The oil level measuring device includes:

[0121] The control module 10 is used to control the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner when the engine is in the first shutdown state.

[0122] The adjustment module 20 is used to adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor when the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed.

[0123] The measurement module 30 is used to measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick when the temperature indicator light is on.

[0124] Optionally, the control module 10 is further configured to:

[0125] The engine's operating information is acquired within a preset time period; the engine's downtime is determined based on the operating information; and when the downtime is less than a first time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be a first downtime state.

[0126] Optionally, the control module 10 is further configured to:

[0127] When the downtime is not less than the second time interval, the engine is determined to be in a second downtime state, where the second time interval is greater than the first time interval. The resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating according to the second downtime state, and the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is acquired in real time. The working state of the temperature indicator light is adjusted according to the oil temperature. When the temperature indicator light is lit, the oil level is measured according to the oil dipstick.

[0128] Optionally, the control module 10 is further configured to:

[0129] The solenoid valve is energized, and the duration of energization is obtained; when the duration of energization reaches a preset duration, the solenoid valve is de-energized.

[0130] Optionally, the adjustment module 20 is further configured to:

[0131] When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is lower than the preset temperature threshold, the resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating and the current oil temperature is obtained; when the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the working state of the temperature indicator light is adjusted to the on state.

[0132] Optionally, the adjustment module 20 is further configured to:

[0133] When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is greater than the preset temperature threshold, the shutdown duration is obtained; when the shutdown duration is greater than the third time interval, the current oil temperature is obtained; when the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the working state of the temperature indicator light is adjusted to the on state.

[0134] Optionally, the adjustment module 20 is further configured to:

[0135] When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, the operation information of the trigger control is obtained; the current functional state of the liquid level measurement function is determined according to the operation information; when the current functional state is the on state, the working state of the temperature indicator is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

[0136] The oil level measuring device provided in this application, employing the oil level measuring method described in the above embodiments, can solve the technical problem in the prior art of accurately measuring the oil level in the engine oil pan. Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the oil level measuring device provided in this application are the same as those of the oil level measuring method provided in the above embodiments, and other technical features of the oil level measuring device are the same as those disclosed in the methods of the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0137] This application provides an oil level measuring device, which includes: at least one processor; and a memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein the memory stores instructions executable by the at least one processor, and the instructions are executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the oil level measuring method in the above embodiment 1.

[0138] The following is for reference. Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a structural schematic of an oil level measuring device suitable for implementing embodiments of this application. The oil level measuring device in the embodiments of this application may include, but is not limited to, mobile terminals such as mobile phones, laptops, digital radio receivers, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), PADs (Portable Application Description), PMPs (Portable Media Players), and in-vehicle terminals (e.g., in-vehicle navigation terminals), as well as fixed terminals such as digital TVs and desktop computers. Figure 8 The oil level measuring device shown is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments of this application.

[0139] like Figure 8As shown, the oil level measuring device may include a processing unit 1001 (e.g., a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit, etc.), which can perform various appropriate actions and processes according to a program stored in a read-only memory (ROM) 1002 or a program loaded from a storage device 1003 into a random access memory (RAM) 1004. The RAM 1004 also stores various programs and data required for the operation of the oil level measuring device. The processing unit 1001, ROM 1002, and RAM 1004 are interconnected via a bus 1005. An input / output (I / O) interface 1006 is also connected to the bus. Typically, the following systems can be connected to the I / O interface 1006: input devices 1007 including, for example, a touchscreen, touchpad, keyboard, mouse, image sensor, microphone, accelerometer, gyroscope, etc.; output devices 1008 including, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), speaker, vibrator, etc.; storage devices 1003 including, for example, magnetic tape, hard disk, etc.; and communication devices 1009. Communication device 1009 allows the oil level measuring device to communicate wirelessly or wiredly with other devices to exchange data. Although the figure shows oil level measuring devices with various systems, it should be understood that implementation or possession of all the systems shown is not required. More or fewer systems may be implemented alternatively.

[0140] Specifically, according to the embodiments disclosed in this application, the processes described above with reference to the flowcharts can be implemented as computer software programs. For example, embodiments disclosed in this application include a computer program product comprising a computer program carried on a computer-readable medium, the computer program containing program code for performing the methods shown in the flowcharts. In such embodiments, the computer program can be downloaded and installed from a network via a communication device, or installed from storage device 1003, or installed from ROM 1002. When the computer program is executed by processing device 1001, it performs the functions defined in the methods of the embodiments disclosed in this application.

[0141] The oil level measuring device provided in this application, employing the oil level measuring method described in the above embodiments, can solve the technical problem in the prior art of accurately measuring the oil level in the engine oil pan. Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the oil level measuring device provided in this application are the same as those of the oil level measuring method provided in the above embodiments, and other technical features of this oil level measuring device are the same as those disclosed in the previous embodiment method, and will not be repeated here.

[0142] It should be understood that the various parts disclosed in this application can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In the description of the above embodiments, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0143] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

[0144] This application provides a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program instructions (i.e., a computer program) stored thereon, the computer-readable program instructions being used to execute the oil level measurement method in the above embodiments.

[0145] The computer-readable storage medium provided in this application may be, for example, a USB flash drive, but is not limited to, electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, devices, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media may include, but are not limited to: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. In this embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium may be any tangible medium containing or storing a program that can be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, system, or device. The program code contained on the computer-readable storage medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to: wires, optical cables, RF (Radio Frequency), etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0146] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium may be included in the oil level measuring device; or it may exist independently and not assembled into the oil level measuring device.

[0147] The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium carries one or more programs. When the aforementioned one or more programs are executed by the oil level measuring device, the oil level measuring device causes the following: when the engine is in a first stopped state, to control the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner; when the opening and closing operation of the electronically controlled valve ends, to adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor; and when the temperature indicator light is illuminated, to measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick.

[0148] Computer program code for performing the operations of this application can be written in one or more programming languages ​​or a combination thereof, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java, Smalltalk, and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as the "C" language or similar programming languages. The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In cases involving remote computers, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer via any type of network—including a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide Area Network (WAN)—or can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0149] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of this application. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions indicated in the blocks may occur in a different order than those indicated in the drawings. For example, two consecutively indicated blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functions involved. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, can be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or operation, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0150] The modules described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in software or hardware. The names of the modules do not necessarily limit the functionality of the unit itself.

[0151] The readable storage medium provided in this application is a computer-readable storage medium that stores computer-readable program instructions (i.e., a computer program) for executing the above-described oil level measurement method, thereby solving the technical problem in the prior art that it is impossible to accurately measure the oil level in the engine oil pan. Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the computer-readable storage medium provided in this application are the same as the beneficial effects of the oil level measurement method provided in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0152] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the oil level measurement method described above.

[0153] The computer program product provided in this application can solve the technical problem of inaccurate measurement of engine oil level in the prior art. Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the computer program product provided in this application are the same as those of the oil level measurement method provided in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0154] The above description is only a part of the embodiments of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. All equivalent structural transformations made under the technical concept of this application and using the contents of the specification and drawings of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included in the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A method for measuring engine oil level, characterized in that, The method is applied to an oil level measurement unit, which includes an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light. The oil dipstick tube includes a first channel and a second channel. The lower opening of the oil dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan through the first channel. The first channel at the lower opening of the oil dipstick tube is located below the oil level in the oil pan. The middle part of the oil dipstick tube is connected to the position above the oil level in the oil pan through the second channel. The first channel and the second channel form a U-shaped tube structure. The electronically controlled valve is located in the first channel. The temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel. The temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube. The oil level measurement method includes: When the engine is in the first shutdown state, the electronically controlled valve is controlled to open and close in a preset manner. When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, the working status of the temperature indicator light is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor. When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level using the oil dipstick.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Before the step of controlling the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner when the engine is in a preset shutdown state, the method further includes: Obtain engine operating information within a preset time period; The engine downtime is determined based on the operating information; When the downtime is less than the first time interval, the engine's operating state is determined to be the first downtime state.

3. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The oil dipstick tube also includes a resistance heating wire, which is located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube; After the step of determining the engine downtime based on the operating information, the method further includes: When the downtime is not less than the second time interval, the engine is determined to be in a second downtime state, where the second time interval is greater than the first time interval. According to the second shutdown state, the resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating, and the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is acquired in real time; Adjust the operating status of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature; When the temperature indicator light is on, measure the oil level using the oil dipstick.

4. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of controlling the electrically controlled valve to open and close according to a preset method includes: Control the solenoid valve to be energized, and obtain the duration of the energization of the solenoid valve; When the energizing duration reaches the preset duration, the power to the electronically controlled valve is de-energized.

5. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The oil dipstick tube also includes a resistance heating wire, which is located at the bottom of the oil dipstick tube; The step of adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light based on the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor includes: When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is lower than the preset temperature threshold, the resistance heating wire is controlled to start heating and the current oil temperature is obtained. When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light is switched to the illuminated state.

6. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of adjusting the working state of the temperature indicator light based on the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor includes: When the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor is greater than a preset temperature threshold, the duration of the shutdown is obtained. The current oil temperature is obtained when the duration of the shutdown is greater than the third time interval; When the current oil temperature reaches the preset temperature threshold, the temperature indicator light is switched to the illuminated state.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The oil level measuring unit also includes a trigger control, which is located at the top of the oil dipstick; The step of adjusting the operating state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor after the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed includes: When the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed, the operation information of the trigger control is obtained; The current functional status of the liquid level measurement function is determined based on the operation information; When the current function is enabled, the operating state of the temperature indicator light is adjusted according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor.

8. An oil level measuring device, comprising an oil dipstick tube, an oil dipstick, an electronically controlled valve, a temperature sensor, and a temperature indicator light, wherein the oil dipstick tube includes a first channel and a second channel, the lower opening of the oil dipstick tube is connected to the oil pan via the first channel, the first channel at the lower opening of the oil dipstick tube is positioned below the oil level in the oil pan, and the middle part of the oil dipstick tube is connected to the position above the oil level in the oil pan via the second channel, the first channel and the second channel forming a U-shaped tube structure, the electronically controlled valve is located within the first channel, the temperature sensor is located at the bottom of the first channel, and the temperature indicator light is located at the top of the oil dipstick tube, characterized in that… The oil level measuring device also includes: The control module is used to control the electronically controlled valve to open and close in a preset manner when the engine is in the first shutdown state. An adjustment module is used to adjust the working state of the temperature indicator light according to the oil temperature collected by the temperature sensor when the on / off operation of the electronically controlled valve is completed. The measurement module is used to measure the oil level according to the oil dipstick when the temperature indicator light is on.

9. An oil level measuring device, characterized in that, The oil level measuring device includes: a memory, a processor, and an oil level measuring program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the oil level measuring program is configured to implement the oil level measuring method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

10. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores an oil level measurement program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the oil level measurement method as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

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