Method and device for correcting characteristic curve of mine engine

Abstract

The application relates to a correction method and device for a mine engine characteristic curve, when a vehicle is in an intelligent gear control mode, the load information of the vehicle and the slope information of a current road are acquired; when the vehicle is in a load state, and the slope information X<=limit value n1, speed regulation is performed according to the third speed regulation section in the characteristic curve; the limit value n1X<=limit value n2, speed regulation is performed according to the second speed regulation section in the characteristic curve; the limit value n2X<=limit value n3; speed regulation is performed according to the first speed regulation section in the characteristic curve. In combination with multiple speed regulation sections, the engine speed regulation section is automatically adjusted through load and slope identification, and fuel consumption is further reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of engine control technology, specifically to a method and apparatus for correcting the characteristic curves of mining engines. Background Technology

[0002] The statements in this section are merely background information related to the present invention and do not necessarily constitute prior art.

[0003] To ensure power, the engines on mining trucks typically have only one characteristic curve. This characteristic curve, designed to meet the power requirements of mining operations, usually specifies the output torque and output power changes at different engine speeds when the throttle is at its maximum. Mining trucks will output different torques and power according to this characteristic curve to meet operational needs. Drivers, considering operational needs and power, will also operate the trucks at full throttle.

[0004] While this method ensures power, it leads to higher fuel consumption and is only suitable for mining operations. In non-operational scenarios, the throttle opening does not need to be at its maximum. For example, when driving on a flat road, the vehicle speed is often adjusted by changing the throttle opening. However, the existing characteristic curve is calibrated under the condition of the throttle opening at its maximum. Under this curve, changing the throttle opening can adjust the vehicle speed, but it cannot release the engine's power, resulting in excessive fuel consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the technical problems described in the background section, this invention provides a method and apparatus for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine. The mining engine incorporates multiple speed control segments on its existing characteristic curve, enhancing power and torque from high torque to the rated point, thereby ensuring low-speed capability. Furthermore, by combining these multiple speed control segments and identifying load and gradient, the engine's speed control segments are automatically adjusted to further reduce fuel consumption.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0007] The first aspect of the present invention provides a method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine, comprising the following steps:

[0008] When the vehicle is in intelligent gear control mode, it obtains the vehicle's load information and the current road slope information.

[0009] When the vehicle is under load and the gradient information X ≤ limit n1, speed regulation is performed according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0010] When the vehicle is under load, and the limit n1 < slope information X ≤ limit n2, speed regulation is performed according to the second speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0011] When the vehicle is under load, and the limit n2 < gradient information X ≤ limit n3, speed regulation is performed according to the first speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

[0012] The characteristic curve includes at least four speed regulation segments. The first speed regulation segment is the torque curve corresponding to different speeds when the engine throttle opening is at its maximum, and the first speed regulation segment has the highest target adaptation speed. In the first to fourth speed regulation segments, the target adaptation speed decreases step by step, the engine load capacity decreases step by step, and the fuel consumption increases step by step.

[0013] Furthermore, when the vehicle is unloaded and the gradient information X>0, speed regulation is performed according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

[0014] Furthermore, when the vehicle is unloaded and the slope information X≤0, speed regulation is performed according to the fourth speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

[0015] Furthermore, when the vehicle is under load, if the gradient information X ≤ limit n2, it is in a flat road or low gradient condition; if the limit n2 < gradient information X ≤ limit n3, it is in a high gradient condition.

[0016] Furthermore, when the vehicle is unloaded, if the slope information X≤0, it is in a flat road or downhill condition; if the slope information X>0, it is in an uphill condition.

[0017] Furthermore, when the vehicle is an autonomous vehicle, the gear is automatically matched according to the corresponding speed range and the current vehicle speed.

[0018] Furthermore, when the vehicle is a manned vehicle, if it is on a flat road or a low slope, select a higher gear to reduce the engine speed, maintain vehicle speed, and reduce fuel consumption; if it is on a steep slope or uphill, select a lower gear to increase the engine speed and maintain climbing ability.

[0019] Furthermore, when the vehicle is not in intelligent gear control mode, monitoring of the engine status will cease.

[0020] A second aspect of the present invention provides a device for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine, comprising:

[0021] The data acquisition module is configured to acquire the vehicle's load information and the current road slope information when the vehicle is in intelligent gear control mode.

[0022] The control module is configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the gradient information X ≤ limit n1, perform speed regulation according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0023] The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n1 < slope information X ≤ limit n2, perform speed regulation according to the second speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0024] The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n2 < slope information X ≤ limit n3; perform speed regulation according to the first speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

[0025] Compared with existing technologies, one or more of the above technical solutions have the following beneficial effects:

[0026] Multiple speed control segments are set on the existing characteristic curve of mining engines to enhance power and torque from high torque to rated point, thereby ensuring low-speed capability and meeting the operational needs of mining trucks in non-operational scenarios. On the other hand, combined with the setting of multiple speed control segments, the engine speed control segments are automatically adjusted through load and gradient recognition, thereby maximizing the engine's fuel-saving capabilities and further reducing fuel consumption. Mining trucks generally use large-displacement engines; the multiple speed control segments ensure low-speed load-bearing capacity by increasing high torque and power at intermediate speeds, fully utilizing the engine's fuel-saving capabilities to reduce fuel consumption. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this invention, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an improper limitation of the invention.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the correction process for the characteristic curve of a mining engine provided in one or more embodiments of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of characteristic curves provided by one or more embodiments of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0031] It should be noted that the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and intended to provide further illustration of the invention. Unless otherwise specified, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains.

[0032] The characteristic curve (external characteristic curve), also known as the "performance curve" or "power characteristic curve" in some sources, refers to the changes in the output torque and output power of an engine at different speeds when the throttle opening is at its maximum. Some external characteristic curves may also include a fuel consumption rate curve. The lowest point of the fuel consumption rate curve is generally near or within the range of the maximum torque speed. Therefore, the engine's maximum torque speed (range) is also called the "economic speed (range)". Under this condition, the engine outputs the maximum torque and the lowest fuel consumption.

[0033] As described in the background section, the engines on mining trucks prioritize power to meet the needs of mining operations, thus having only one characteristic curve that prioritizes torque. Consequently, drivers also consider operational requirements and power when operating the trucks, often operating at full throttle. While this approach ensures power, it leads to higher fuel consumption and is only suitable for mining operations. However, on flat roads, the engine is not under heavy load because it is not operating. The existing characteristic curve is set at maximum throttle opening, which is obviously not required on flat roads. Controlling the vehicle speed using the existing characteristic curve will not be able to fully utilize the engine's capabilities.

[0034] For mining truck engines, there is generally only one characteristic curve: "high speed, high load capacity, high fuel consumption." A curve for "intermediate speed, lower load capacity, lower fuel consumption" is lacking. On flat roads, the load capacity requirement for mining trucks is low, and the "high fuel consumption" characteristic curve is not necessary. If, while maintaining a constant vehicle speed, the engine can be operated at the "intermediate speed" characteristic curve by selecting an appropriate gear, fuel consumption can be reduced. This refers to utilizing the engine's ability to reduce fuel consumption.

[0035] Therefore, this embodiment provides a method and apparatus for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine. Based on the characteristics of the mining engine, the existing characteristic curve is divided into multiple segments, and the speed adjustment segment and gear are matched and selected according to the current slope and load of the engine.

[0036] Example 1:

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine includes the following steps:

[0038] The whole machine is running;

[0039] The driver can choose whether to enter the intelligent gear control mode; if yes, the system will identify whether the vehicle is under load; if no, the system will exit the intelligent gear control mode, the monitoring status will stop, and the driver will take over control.

[0040] When the vehicle is under load, the current slope information X is identified, and the slope is determined based on pre-calibrated data, specifically as follows:

[0041] If X ≤ n1 (including downhill < 0), execute the third speed adjustment phase;

[0042] If n1 < X ≤ n2, execute the second speed regulation stage;

[0043] n2<X≤n3; Execute the first speed regulation segment.

[0044] In this embodiment, n1, n2, and n3 are slope thresholds determined in advance through simulation or experimentation.

[0045] In this embodiment, the load status can be obtained through sensors. For example, for trucks with leaf spring suspension, a height sensor is installed next to the leaf spring to detect the amount of deformation of the leaf spring after compression, and the load status is determined after conversion.

[0046] In this embodiment, slope information can be obtained through sensors, such as elevation sensors (laser rangefinders, radar, etc.) mounted on the vehicle, to obtain the height difference on the ground and calculate the slope. Alternatively, the vehicle's horizontal and vertical displacement (i.e., altitude change) can be obtained using onboard GPS, and the vehicle's acceleration information can be obtained by combining this with an acceleration sensor to calculate the slope value.

[0047] If the engine is installed in an autonomous vehicle, it will automatically select the gear and operate at low engine speeds to maintain vehicle speed and reduce fuel consumption.

[0048] If the engine is installed in a manned vehicle, when X≤n2, on a flat road or with a low slope, the driver should manually select a higher gear to reduce the engine speed, thus maintaining vehicle speed and reducing fuel consumption. When n2<X≤n3, on a steep slope, the driver should manually select a lower gear to increase the engine speed, thus ensuring climbing ability.

[0049] In this embodiment, the high gear and low gear are a set of relative concept settings that depend on different vehicle models and speeds. For example, when in a steep incline, the vehicle switches to a relatively lower gear based on the current speed, thereby obtaining higher torque output through a more matched transmission gear ratio.

[0050] Continuous monitoring: If the driver chooses not to exit the intelligent gear control mode, the system will continue to operate in this mode and monitor the engine status.

[0051] When the vehicle is in an unloaded state, i.e., when it is determined to be in an empty state, the current slope information X is identified, and the slope condition is identified according to the pre-calibrated data, specifically as follows:

[0052] 0 < X ​​indicates an uphill condition, in which the third speed regulation stage is activated;

[0053] When X≤0, it indicates flat road and downhill conditions, and the fourth speed regulation section is executed.

[0054] If the engine is installed in an autonomous vehicle, the gear will be automatically matched according to the slope conditions, and the engine speed will be kept low to ensure vehicle speed and reduce fuel consumption.

[0055] If the engine is installed in a manned vehicle, then on flat roads and downhill conditions (X≤0), a higher gear should be selected to reduce the engine speed, thus ensuring vehicle speed and reducing fuel consumption; on uphill conditions (0<X), a lower gear should be selected to maintain a certain engine speed and ensure climbing ability.

[0056] Continuous monitoring: If the driver chooses not to exit the intelligent gear control mode, the system will continue to operate in this mode and monitor the engine status. When the driver chooses to exit the intelligent gear control mode, engine status monitoring will cease (monitoring stops), and the system will be handed over to the driver.

[0057] The specific division of speed regulation sections is as follows: Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 The horizontal axis represents engine speed, and the vertical axis represents engine torque.

[0058] The first speed regulation segment is the existing characteristic curve of the mining engine, that is, the torque corresponding to different speeds when the throttle opening is at its maximum.

[0059] The four speed regulation curves are divided according to the target adaptable speed, the load capacity is divided according to the order 1 > 2 > 3 > 4, and the fuel consumption is divided according to the order 1 < 2 < 3 < 4.

[0060] Generally, under full load conditions, select the first speed control section for steep inclines, the second speed control section for gentle inclines, and the third speed control section for flat roads and downhill sections. Under no-load conditions, select the third speed control section for inclines, and the fourth speed control section for downhill and flat roads.

[0061] The specific slope division is determined based on the working conditions of the mining area and the engine capacity; this embodiment does not impose specific limitations.

[0062] The specific target adaptation speed division needs to be calibrated according to the working conditions of the mining area. The target adaptation speed refers to the engine speed range that meets specific performance requirements (such as maximum power, maximum torque, minimum fuel consumption rate, etc.). In this embodiment, the target adaptation speed of the four speed regulation segment curves decreases step by step from the first to the fourth speed regulation segment. Among them, the first speed regulation segment has the highest target adaptation speed, for example, the highest adaptation speed is 2200 rpm. The difference in target adaptation speed between the first to the fourth speed regulation segments is 100 rpm.

[0063] This application targets mining engines, setting multiple speed control segments on existing characteristic curves to enhance power and torque from high torque to rated points, thereby ensuring low-speed capability. Furthermore, by combining multiple speed control segments and identifying load and gradient, the engine's speed control segments are automatically adjusted to further reduce fuel consumption. Mining trucks generally use large-displacement engines; the multiple speed control segments ensure low-speed load capacity and maximize engine fuel efficiency by increasing torque and power at intermediate speeds.

[0064] Example 2:

[0065] A device for correcting the characteristic curves of mining engines, including:

[0066] The data acquisition module is configured to acquire the vehicle's load information and the current road slope information when the vehicle is in intelligent gear control mode.

[0067] The control module is configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the gradient information X ≤ limit n1, perform speed regulation according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0068] The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n1 < slope information X ≤ limit n2, perform speed regulation according to the second speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve;

[0069] The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n2 < slope information X ≤ limit n3; perform speed regulation according to the first speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

[0070] Multiple speed control segments are set on the existing characteristic curve of the mining engine. On the one hand, this ensures that the rated power corresponds to the standard load capacity, preventing users from overloading excessively. At the same time, the power and torque from the high torque to the rated point are improved, thus ensuring low-speed capability. On the other hand, combined with multiple speed control segments, and through load and gradient recognition, the engine speed control segments are automatically adjusted to further reduce fuel consumption.

[0071] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Obtain the vehicle's load information and the current road gradient information; When the vehicle is under load and the gradient information X ≤ limit n1, speed regulation is performed according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve; When the vehicle is under load, and the limit n1 < slope information X ≤ limit n2, speed regulation is performed according to the second speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve; When the vehicle is under load, and the limit n2 < gradient information X ≤ limit n3, speed regulation is performed according to the first speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve. The characteristic curve includes at least four speed regulation segments. The first speed regulation segment is the torque curve corresponding to different speeds when the engine throttle opening is at its maximum, and the first speed regulation segment has the highest target adaptation speed. In the first to fourth speed regulation segments, the target adaptation speed decreases step by step, the engine load capacity decreases step by step, and the fuel consumption rate increases step by step.

2. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is unloaded and the gradient information X>0, speed regulation is performed according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

3. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is unloaded and the gradient information X≤0, speed regulation is performed according to the fourth speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve.

4. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is under load, if the gradient information X ≤ limit n2, it is in a flat road or low gradient condition; if the limit n2 < gradient information X ≤ limit n3, it is in a high gradient condition.

5. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is unloaded, if the slope information X≤0, it is in a flat road or downhill condition; if the slope information X>0, it is in an uphill condition.

6. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is an autonomous vehicle, the gear is automatically matched according to the corresponding speed range and the current vehicle speed.

7. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is a manned vehicle, if it is on a flat road or a low slope, select a higher gear to reduce the engine speed, maintain vehicle speed, and reduce fuel consumption; if it is on a steep slope or uphill, select a lower gear to increase the engine speed and maintain climbing ability.

8. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the vehicle is not in intelligent gear control mode, engine status monitoring will stop.

9. The method for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, In the first to fourth speed regulation sections, the target adaptation speed decreases step by step, specifically: the target adaptation speed is divided into the first speed regulation section > the second speed regulation section > the third speed regulation section > the fourth speed regulation section; In the first to fourth speed regulation sections, the engine's load capacity decreases step by step, specifically: the load capacity is divided according to the first speed regulation section > the second speed regulation section > the third speed regulation section > the fourth speed regulation section. In the first to fourth speed regulation segments, the fuel consumption rate increases progressively, specifically as follows: fuel consumption rate is divided into the first speed regulation segment < the second speed regulation segment < the third speed regulation segment < the fourth speed regulation segment.

10. A device for correcting the characteristic curve of a mining engine, characterized in that, include: The data acquisition module is configured to acquire the vehicle's load information and the current road slope information when the vehicle is in intelligent gear control mode. The control module is configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the gradient information X ≤ limit n1, perform speed regulation according to the third speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve; The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n1 < slope information X ≤ limit n2, perform speed regulation according to the second speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve; The control module is also configured to: when the vehicle is under load and the limit n2 < slope information X ≤ limit n3; perform speed regulation according to the first speed regulation segment in the characteristic curve; The characteristic curve includes at least four speed regulation segments. The first speed regulation segment is the torque curve corresponding to different speeds when the engine throttle opening is at its maximum, and the first speed regulation segment has the highest target adaptation speed. In the first to fourth speed regulation segments, the target adaptation speed decreases step by step, the engine load capacity decreases step by step, and the fuel consumption rate increases step by step.

Images