System and method for monitoring a fluid line in a vehicle

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for monitoring a fluid line in a vehicle, the fluid line configured to remove heat from an electronic device using a coolant. The system may include a pump configured to flow coolant through the fluid line, a sensing device configured to sense vibrations in the fluid line, and a controller, the controller is configured to receive vehicle state data, determine a recommended flow rate of the coolant based on the vehicle state data, determine a vibration signal threshold based on the vehicle state data and the recommended flow rate, initiate operation of the pump to flow the coolant at the recommended flow rate, determine whether the flow of the coolant is stable, receive sensor data indicative of vibration, and transmit the vibration signal threshold to the controller. A signal characteristic of the vibration is determined when the flow is stable, and a remedial action is initiated based on a comparison of the signal characteristic to a vibration signal threshold.

Description

[0001] The technical field generally relates to cooling systems for electronic devices in vehicles, and more specifically to systems and methods for monitoring coolant flow within a vehicle's cooling system. Background Technology

[0002] Modern vehicles are equipped with a wide variety of electronic devices, from advanced infotainment systems to complex engine control units and safety features. While these electronic components enhance a vehicle's performance, efficiency, and comfort, they also generate significant amounts of heat during operation. Effectively managing this heat is a major challenge for automotive engineers. Overheating can lead to performance degradation, reduced efficiency, and even component failure. Cooling systems, such as cooling fans, radiators, liquid coolants, and thermal management algorithms, are used to regulate temperatures and prevent overheating. As vehicles become more electrified and incorporate higher-power electronics, the need for efficient thermal management solutions continues to grow to ensure the reliability and lifespan of modern automotive electronics.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to provide systems and methods for facilitating the monitoring of vehicle heat dissipation and cooling systems. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical and background information, based on the following detailed description and appended claims. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A method for monitoring fluid lines in a vehicle is provided. In one example, the method includes: receiving vehicle status data of the vehicle by one or more processors; determining a recommended flow rate of coolant by the one or more processors based on the vehicle status data; determining a vibration signal threshold by the one or more processors based on the vehicle status data and the recommended flow rate; operating a pump of the vehicle to cause coolant to flow through the fluid lines at the recommended flow rate to remove heat generated by the vehicle's electronic equipment, wherein the recommended flow rate is configured to keep the electronic equipment below a predetermined temperature; determining whether the flow of coolant through the fluid lines is stable by the one or more processors; sensing vibrations in the fluid lines caused by the flow of coolant therein using a sensing device of the vehicle; determining one or more signal characteristics of the vibration sensed by the sensing device when the flow of coolant through the fluid lines is stable; and initiating remedial actions by the one or more processors based on a comparison of the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration with the vibration signal threshold.

[0005] In various examples, the method includes: vehicle status data including at least one of the following: coolant temperature, vehicle battery heating or cooling status, power electronics cooling status, vehicle charging status, vehicle driving mode, and vehicle speed.

[0006] In various examples, the sensing device used in this method is positioned downstream of a geometric change in the fluid pipeline, which is configured to amplify vibration signals sensed in the fluid pipeline at the location of the sensing device.

[0007] In various examples, the sensing device used in this method is positioned downstream of a geometric change in the fluid pipeline, such that the flow of coolant prior to the geometric change is transverse to the flow of coolant at the location of the sensing device.

[0008] In various examples, the sensing device used in this method is positioned downstream of the right-angle bend in the fluid pipeline, such that the flow of coolant before the right-angle bend is perpendicular to the flow of coolant at the location of the sensing device.

[0009] In various examples, the vibration signal threshold of the method includes a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second signal characteristic is less than the first signal characteristic. The method includes: determining, by one or more processors, that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is normal in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being greater than the first threshold; determining that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being between the first and second thresholds; and determining that no coolant flows through the fluid line in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being less than the second threshold.

[0010] In various examples, the remedial action of the method includes reporting the classification of coolant flow through the fluid lines to another component of the vehicle.

[0011] In various examples, the remedial action of the method includes initiating a degassing process configured to reduce the air concentration within the fluid line.

[0012] In various examples, the sensing device used in this method is an accelerometer, which is functionally coupled to the outside of the fluid line so that the accelerometer senses vibrations of the fluid line without contacting the coolant, and one or more signal characteristics include at least one of the frequency and amplitude of the vibration sensed by the accelerometer.

[0013] A system for a vehicle is provided. In one example, the system includes: a cooling system including a fluid line configured to remove heat generated by the vehicle's electronic equipment using a coolant; a pump configured to allow coolant to flow through the fluid line of the cooling system; a sensing device configured to sense vibrations in the fluid line caused by the flow of coolant; and a controller operatively in communication with the pump and the sensing device. The controller is configured to: receive vehicle status data of the vehicle; determine a recommended flow rate of coolant in the cooling system based on the vehicle status data, wherein the recommended flow rate is configured to keep the electronic equipment below a predetermined temperature; determine a vibration signal threshold based on the vehicle status data and the recommended flow rate; initiate operation of the pump to allow coolant to flow through the fluid line at the recommended flow rate; determine whether the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable; receive sensor data from the sensing device indicating vibrations sensed in the fluid line; determine one or more signal characteristics of the vibration sensed by the sensing device when the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable; and initiate remedial action based on a comparison of the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration with the vibration signal threshold.

[0014] In various examples, the system's vehicle status data includes at least one of the following: coolant temperature, vehicle battery heating or cooling status, power electronics cooling status, vehicle charging status, vehicle driving mode, and vehicle speed.

[0015] In various examples, the system's sensing device is positioned downstream of a geometric change in the fluid pipeline, which is configured to amplify vibration signals sensed in the fluid pipeline at the location of the sensing device.

[0016] In various examples, the system's sensing device is positioned downstream of a geometric change in the fluid pipeline, where the flow of coolant prior to the geometric change is transverse to the flow of coolant at the location of the sensing device.

[0017] In various examples, the system's sensing device is positioned downstream of an arcuate right-angle bend in the fluid pipeline, such that the flow of coolant before the arcuate right-angle bend is perpendicular to the flow of coolant at the location of the sensing device.

[0018] In various examples, the vibration signal threshold of the system includes a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second signal characteristic is less than the first signal characteristic, wherein the controller is configured to determine, in response to one or more signal characteristics being greater than the first threshold, that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is normal; in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being between the first and second thresholds, that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated; and in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being less than the second threshold, that no coolant flows through the fluid line.

[0019] In various examples, the system's remedial actions include reporting the classification of coolant flow through the fluid lines to another component of the vehicle.

[0020] In various examples, the remedial actions of the system include initiating a degassing process configured to reduce the air concentration within the fluid line.

[0021] In various examples, the sensing device of the system is an accelerometer, which is functionally coupled to the outside of the fluid line so that the accelerometer can sense the vibration of the fluid line without contacting the coolant, and wherein one or more signal characteristics include at least one of the frequency and amplitude of the vibration sensed by the accelerometer.

[0022] A vehicle is provided, in one example including electronic devices that generate heat during operation; a cooling system including a fluid line configured to remove the heat generated by the electronic devices using a coolant; a pump configured to allow coolant to flow through the fluid line of the cooling system; an accelerometer functionally coupled to the outside of the fluid line and configured to sense vibrations in the fluid line caused by the flow of coolant therein without contacting the coolant; and a controller operatively communicating with the pump and the accelerometer. The controller is configured to: receive vehicle state data of the vehicle; determine a recommended flow rate of coolant in the cooling system based on the vehicle state data, wherein the recommended flow rate is configured to keep the electronic devices below a predetermined temperature; determine a vibration signal threshold based on the vehicle state data and the recommended flow rate, wherein the vibration signal threshold includes a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second signal characteristic is less than the first signal characteristic; initiate operation of the pump to allow coolant to flow through the fluid line at the recommended flow rate; determine whether the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable; and receive from the accelerometer an indication of vibrations sensed in the fluid line. Sensor data; when the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable, determine one or more signal characteristics of vibration sensed by an accelerometer; determine that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is normal in response to one or more signal characteristics being greater than a first threshold, determine that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being between the first and second thresholds, and determine that no coolant flows through the fluid line in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration being less than the second threshold; and initiate remedial action in response to determining that the flow of coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated, or determining that no coolant flows through the fluid line.

[0023] In various examples, the vehicle's accelerometer is positioned downstream of a right-angle bend in the fluid line, such that the flow of coolant before the right-angle bend is perpendicular to the flow of coolant at the location of the accelerometer. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in conjunction with the following figures, wherein the same numerals denote the same elements, and wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a functional block diagram illustrating a coolant monitoring system for a vehicle, based on various examples;

[0026] Figure 2 It is based on various examples Figure 1 Data flow diagram of the coolant monitoring system;

[0027] Figure 3It is a flowchart of various examples of methods for monitoring coolant flow in a vehicle's cooling system;

[0028] Figure 4 It is a flowchart illustrating methods for classifying coolant flow in a vehicle's cooling system based on various examples; and

[0029] Figure 5 It is a functional block diagram of the cooling system of a vehicle based on various examples. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit application and use. Furthermore, it is not intended to be bound by any express or implied theory set forth in the foregoing technical fields, background art, summary of the invention, or the detailed description below. As used herein, the term "module" refers to any hardware, software, firmware, electronic control components, processing logic, and / or processor device, individually or in any combination, including but not limited to: application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (shared, dedicated, or grouped) and memories executing one or more software or firmware programs, combinational logic circuits, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.

[0031] Embodiments of this disclosure are described herein according to functional and / or logical block components and various processing steps. It should be understood that such block components can be implemented by any number of hardware, software, and / or firmware components configured to perform specified functions. For example, embodiments of this disclosure may employ various integrated circuit components, such as memory elements, digital signal processing elements, logic elements, lookup tables, etc., which can perform various functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced in combination with any number of systems, and the systems described herein are merely exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0032] For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to signal processing, data transmission, signaling, control, and other functional aspects of the system (and its various operating components) are not described in detail herein. Furthermore, the connecting lines shown in the various figures included herein are intended to represent exemplary functional relationships and / or physical couplings between various elements. It should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may exist in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0033] Figure 1A vehicle 10 according to a first example is shown. The vehicle 10 includes a monitoring system 100 configured to monitor the flow of coolant within a cooling system 36 during operation of the vehicle 10, in order to facilitate awareness of the state of the cooling system 36, facilitate proper operation and lifespan of electronic devices 35 cooled by the cooling system 36, and facilitate the safety of the vehicle 10.

[0034] In some examples, vehicle 10 includes a car. In various examples, vehicle 10 can be any of a variety of different types of cars, such as sedans, vans, trucks, or sports utility vehicles (SUVs), and in some examples can be two-wheel drive (2WD) (i.e., rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD) and / or various other types of vehicles.

[0035] like Figure 1 As depicted, the exemplary vehicle 10 typically includes a chassis 12, a body 14, front wheels 16, and rear wheels 18. The body 14 is mounted on the chassis 12 and substantially surrounds the components of the vehicle 10. The body 14 and the chassis 12 may together form a frame. The wheels 16-18 are each rotatably coupled to the chassis 12 near a corresponding angle of the body 14.

[0036] Vehicle 10 further includes a propulsion system 20, a transmission system 22, a steering system 24, a sensor system 28, an actuator system 30, at least one data storage device 32, at least one controller 34, electronics 35, and a cooling system 36. The propulsion system 20 includes an internal combustion engine, such as a gasoline or diesel fuel-powered internal combustion engine, an electric motor or hybrid electric motor, and an internal combustion engine system. The transmission system 22 is configured to transmit power from the propulsion system 20 to the wheels 16-18 according to a selectable speed ratio. According to various examples, the transmission system 22 may include a step-ratio automatic transmission, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), or other suitable transmission. The steering system 24 affects the position of the wheels 16-18. Although depicted for illustrative purposes as including a steering wheel 24a, in some examples contemplated within the scope of this disclosure, the steering system 24 may not include a steering wheel.

[0037] Sensor system 28 includes one or more sensing devices 40a-40n that sense observable conditions of the external environment, internal environment, and / or the state or conditions of corresponding components of vehicle 10, and provide such conditions and / or states to other systems of vehicle 10, such as controller 34. It should be understood that vehicle 10 may include any number of sensing devices 40a-40n. Sensing devices 40a-40n may include, but are not limited to, vibration sensors (e.g., accelerometers), temperature sensors, speed sensors, device status and feedback sensors, etc.

[0038] The actuator system 30 includes one or more actuator devices 42a-42n that control one or more vehicle features, such as, but not limited to, the propulsion system 20, the transmission system 22, the steering system 24, and the cooling system 36.

[0039] Data storage device 32 stores data used to control vehicle 10 and / or its systems and components. It is understood that data storage device 32 may be part of controller 34, separate from controller 34, or part of controller 34 and a separate system. Data storage device 32 may be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of direct-access storage and / or other memory devices. In one example, data storage device 32 includes a program product from which a computer-readable storage device can receive a program that performs one or more implementations of one or more processes of this disclosure, such as those described below. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Further discussion of the process steps. In another example, the program product may be stored directly on a storage device and / or one or more other disks and / or other storage devices, and / or otherwise accessed therefrom.

[0040] The controller 34 includes at least one processor 44, a communication bus 45, and a computer-readable storage device or medium 46. The processor 44 performs the computational and control functions of the controller 34. The processor 44 can be any custom or commercially available processor, central processing unit (CPU), graphics processing unit (GPU), auxiliary processor among several processors associated with the controller 34, semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), macroprocessor, any combination thereof, or any device typically used for executing instructions. For example, the computer-readable storage device or medium 46 can include volatile and non-volatile memory in read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), and keep-alive memory (KAM). KAM is persistent or non-volatile memory that can be used to store various operational variables when the processor 44 is powered off. The computer-readable storage device or medium 46 can be implemented using any of a number of known memory devices, such as PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), flash memory, or any other electrical, magnetic, optical, or combined memory device capable of storing data, some of which represents executable instructions used by the controller 34 in controlling the vehicle 10. Bus 45 is used to transfer programs, data, status, and other information or signals between various components of the vehicle 10. Bus 45 can be any suitable physical or logical means of connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct hardwired connections, fiber optic, infrared, and wireless bus technologies.

[0041] Instructions may include one or more separate programs, each comprising an ordered list of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. When executed by processor 44, the instructions receive and process signals from sensor system 28, perform logic, calculations, methods, and / or algorithms, and generate data based on the logic, calculations, methods, and / or algorithms. Although Figure 1 Only one controller 34 is shown, but vehicle 10 may include any number of controllers 34, which communicate via any suitable communication medium or combination of communication media and cooperate to process sensor signals, perform logic, calculations, methods and / or algorithms, and generate data.

[0042] It is understandable that controller 34 may otherwise differ from... Figure 1 Examples are depicted herein. For example, controller 34 may be coupled to or otherwise utilize one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems, for example, as part of one or more of the aforementioned vehicle equipment and systems. It should be understood that although this example is described in the context of a full-function computer system, those skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of this disclosure can be distributed as a program product along with one or more types of non-transitory computer-readable signal-bearing media for storing the program and its instructions and for performing its distribution, such as a non-transitory computer-readable medium carrying the program and containing computer instructions stored therein for causing a computer processor (such as processor 44) to execute and implement the program. Such a program product can take many forms, and this disclosure applies equally regardless of the specific type of computer-readable signal-bearing medium used for performing the distribution. Examples of signal-bearing media include: recordable media, such as floppy disks, hard disks, memory cards, and optical disks, and transmission media, such as digital and analog communication links. It should be understood that cloud-based storage and / or other technologies may also be utilized in some examples. Similarly, it should be understood that the computer system of controller 34 may otherwise differ from... Figure 1 As illustrated in the examples, for instance, the computer system of controller 34 may be coupled to or may otherwise utilize one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems.

[0043] refer to Figure 2 And continue to refer to Figure 1 The data flow diagram illustrates various examples. Figure 1The monitoring system 100 comprises various components. It is understood that various examples of the system 100 according to this disclosure may include any number of modules embedded within the controller 34, which may be combined and / or further subdivided to similarly implement the systems and methods described herein. Furthermore, inputs to the system 100 may be received from other control modules (not shown) associated with the vehicle 10, and / or determined / modeled by other sub-modules (not shown) within the controller 34. Additionally, inputs may be preprocessed, such as subsampling, noise reduction, normalization, feature extraction, missing data reduction, etc. In various examples, the system 100 includes a coolant flow module 110, a control module 112, a vibration module 114, a threshold module 116, and a remedial action module 118.

[0044] In various examples, the coolant flow module 110 receives vehicle status data 120 as input, generated by the sensor system 28 and / or other components or systems of the vehicle 10. The vehicle status data 120 includes various data indicating information related to the current state and operating conditions of the vehicle 10. The vehicle status data 120 may include, but is not limited to, coolant temperature, the heating or cooling status of the vehicle 10's battery, the cooling status of power electronics, the charging status of the vehicle 10, the driving mode of the vehicle 10, the speed of the vehicle 10, the temperature of thermal management equipment, power consumption, outside air temperature (outside the vehicle 10), and vehicle fault data. The coolant flow module 110 processes the vehicle status data 120 to determine a recommended flow rate of coolant in the cooling system 36. For example, the recommended flow rate may be a coolant flow rate sufficient to provide an optimal, desired, or minimum cooling rate for the electronic equipment (e.g., electronic device 35) thereby cooled. In some examples, the recommended coolant flow rate may be the cooling rate necessary to maintain the temperature of the electronic equipment thereby cooled within the manufacturer's recommended operating temperature range or otherwise below a predetermined temperature. The coolant flow module 110 generates coolant flow data 122, which includes various data indicating the recommended flow rate.

[0045] In various examples, control module 112 receives coolant flow data 122 generated by coolant flow module 110 as input. Control module 112 generates control data 124, which includes various data configured to start, activate, or control the pumps of cooling system 36 to cause coolant to flow at a recommended flow rate through the fluid lines of cooling system 36. Control module 112 can transmit control data 124 to the pumps and / or a controller configured to operate the pumps.

[0046] In various examples, vibration module 114 receives sensor data 126 generated by sensor system 28 as input. Sensor data 126 includes various data indicating sensed vibrations in the fluid lines of cooling system 36. Vibration module 114 processes sensor data 126 to determine one or more signal characteristics of the sensed vibrations in the fluid lines. In some examples, vibration module 114 performs a transformation process to determine the frequency and / or amplitude of the vibration over time. Various methods can be used to transform the sensed vibration modes to the frequency domain. In some examples, a Fast Fourier Transform algorithm is used to convert the sensed vibrations to their frequency and amplitude. Vibration module 114 generates vibration data 128, which includes various data indicating one or more signal characteristics of the determined vibrations.

[0047] In some examples, vibration module 114 is configured to determine one or more signal characteristics of vibrations occurring in the fluid line only when the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable. As used herein, coolant flow is considered stable when the flow rate remains substantially constant (at a non-zero flow rate) and / or within a defined range over a predetermined time period. Various methods can be used to determine whether the flow is stable and / or to limit the sensed vibrations used for subsequent calculations to vibrations obtained during stable flow conditions. In some examples, vibration module 114 may continuously receive vibration data 128, process the vibration data 128 to determine whether the sensed vibrations indicated therein are stable, and then use only the sensed vibrations occurring during such stable flow periods to determine one or more signal characteristics. In some examples, vibration module 114 or another module of vehicle 10 may identify stable flow periods based on vehicle state data (e.g., constant speed, consistent driving mode, etc.) and activate sensor system 28 to sense vibrations only during such stable flow periods. These examples, such as analyzing vibrations only during stable flow periods of coolant, can improve the accuracy of the resulting flow classification.

[0048] In various examples, the threshold module 116 receives vehicle state data 120 generated by the sensor system 28 and / or other components or systems of the vehicle 10 as input. In various examples, the threshold module 116 receives coolant flow data 122 generated by the coolant flow module 110 as input. The threshold module 116 performs analysis of the vehicle state data 120 and the coolant flow data 122 to determine a vibration signal threshold. The threshold module 116 generates threshold data 130, which includes various data indicating the determined vibration signal threshold.

[0049] Vibration signal thresholds may include one or more sets or ranges of one or more signal characteristics (e.g., frequency and / or amplitude) of vibrations associated with various types of coolant flow within a cooling system. For example, vibration signal thresholds may include a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second vibration threshold is smaller than the first vibration threshold.

[0050] Various methods can be used to define vibration signal thresholds associated with various recommended flow rates. In some examples, vibration signal thresholds can be defined experimentally. In other examples, vibration signal thresholds can be defined through computational modeling.

[0051] In various examples, the remedial action module 118 receives vibration data 128 generated by the vibration module 114 as input. In various examples, the remedial action module 118 receives threshold data 130 generated by the threshold module 116 as input. The remedial action module 118 performs an analysis of the vibration data 128 and the threshold data 130, which includes a comparison of one or more signal characteristics of the vibration with vibration signal thresholds. Based on this analysis, the remedial action module 118 initiates or executes a remedial action. Various remedial actions can be initiated or executed. In one example, the remedial action module 118 can determine the classification of coolant flow through the fluid lines and report this classification to one or more other components of the vehicle 10, such as the controller of the pump of the cooling system 36 or a health monitoring system configured to monitor the health or status of the cooling system 36 and / or various systems of the vehicle 10. In another example, the remedial action module 118 can initiate a degassing process configured to reduce the air concentration within the fluid lines. The remedial action module 118 generates remedial action data 132, which includes various data configured to initiate or execute one or more remedial actions. For example, remedial action data 132 may include a determined classification of coolant flow through the fluid lines.

[0052] In some examples where the remedial action module 118 reports the classification of coolant flow, the classification of coolant flow through the fluid line may include classifying coolant flow as normal, expected, or “correct flow” in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration exceeding a first threshold. That is, one or more signal characteristics exceeding the first threshold correspond to coolant flow that matches or falls within an acceptable range of flow rates (i.e., recommended flow rates) when the pump is operating. In some examples, the first threshold may correspond to the minimum acceptable flow of fluid at the recommended flow rate under normal operating conditions of the cooling system.

[0053] As another example, classifying coolant flow through a fluid line could include classifying coolant flow as low or aerated in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration, falling between a first and a second threshold. That is, flow through the fluid line that is below an acceptable flow rate for pump operation (e.g., a recommended flow rate). In such an example, a “low or aerated flow” classification could indicate a malfunction or damage to the cooling system or its components, an air leak in the system, a low coolant level, or some other problem that may require resolution to restore proper flow within the cooling system.

[0054] As yet another example, classifying coolant flow through a fluid line could include classifying coolant flow as “no flow” in response to one or more signal characteristics of vibration falling below a second threshold. In such an example, a no-flow classification could indicate the presence of a blockage that partially or completely impedes fluid flow within the fluid line and / or cooling system.

[0055] Now for reference Figure 3 And continue to refer to Figures 1-2 Based on various examples, the flowchart provides a method 200 for monitoring a vehicle's cooling system, such as that performed by monitoring system 100. It will be understood from this disclosure that the sequence of operations within method 200 is not limited to... Figure 3 The execution is not performed in the sequential order shown, but may be performed in one or more varying orders as applicable and in accordance with this disclosure. In various examples, method 200 may be scheduled to run based on one or more predetermined events, and / or may run continuously during the operation of the vehicle.

[0056] In one example, method 200 may begin at 210. At 212, method 200 may include receiving vehicle status data of the vehicle. At 214, method 200 may include determining a recommended flow rate of coolant in the cooling system based on the vehicle status data. In some examples, the recommended flow rate is configured to keep the electronic equipment below a predetermined temperature. At 216, method 200 may include operating a pump in the vehicle to cause coolant to flow at the recommended flow rate through the fluid lines of the cooling system to remove heat generated by the vehicle's electronic equipment.

[0057] At 218, method 200 may include determining whether the flow of coolant through the fluid line is stable. At 220, method 200 may include sensing vibrations in the fluid line caused by the flow of coolant therein using sensing devices of the vehicle (e.g., one or more of sensing devices 40a-40n). In some examples, the sensing device is an accelerometer functionally coupled to the outside of the fluid line. At 224, method 200 may include determining one or more signal characteristics (e.g., frequency and / or amplitude varying over time) of the vibrations sensed by the sensing devices. At 222, method 200 may include determining a vibration signal threshold based on vehicle state data and a recommended flow rate.

[0058] At 226, method 200 may include initiating or performing a remedial action based on a comparison of one or more signal characteristics of vibration with a vibration signal threshold. Various remedial actions may be performed. In some examples, the remedial action may include determining a classification of coolant flow through the fluid lines and reporting that classification to one or more other components of the vehicle. In some examples, the classification may be low flow, aerated flow, or no flow of coolant in the fluid lines. In one example, the remedial action includes initiating a degassing process configured to reduce the air concentration within the fluid lines. Method 200 may end at 228.

[0059] Now for reference Figure 4 And continue to refer to Figures 1-3 Based on various examples, the flowchart provides a method 300 for classifying the flow of coolant through fluid lines in a cooling system, such as a method performed by monitoring system 100. Method 300 can be represented in... Figure 3 Method 200 at point 224 is part or all of the execution process.

[0060] Method 300 may begin at 310. At 312, method 300 may include comparing one or more signal characteristics of vibration with a low threshold of a vibration signal threshold. If one or more signal characteristics of vibration are less than the low threshold, method 300 determines at 316 that there is little or no coolant flow through the fluid line. If one or more signal characteristics of vibration are greater than the low threshold at 312, method 300 continues to 314.

[0061] At 314, method 300 may include comparing one or more signal characteristics of vibration with a high threshold of a vibration signal threshold. If one or more signal characteristics of vibration are less than the high threshold, method 300 determines at 318 that the flow is low (e.g., below normal or expected) and / or inflated. If one or more signal characteristics of vibration are greater than the high threshold, method 300 determines at 320 that the flow is normal, expected, and / or correct. Method 300 may end at 322.

[0062] refer to Figure 5 And continue to refer to Figures 1-4 The text presents a non-limiting example of a cooling system 400, which in some examples may be... Figure 1 The cooling system 400 may include a portion or all of the cooling system 36. In this example, the cooling system 400 includes a pump 410, fluid lines 412, a temperature sensing device 414, electronic equipment 416 (e.g., electronic equipment 35), a vibration sensing device 418, a buffer tank 420, a coolant level sensing device 422, and a controller 424 (e.g., controller 34). It should be understood that the cooling system 400 may include... Figure 5 Additional components not shown in the text.

[0063] Pump 410 is configured to controllably flow coolant in the circuit through fluid line 412 to remove heat generated by electronics 416. Buffer tank 420 may be configured, for example, to regulate the pressure and volume of coolant within cooling system 400. Temperature sensing device 414 is configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect the temperature of the coolant in fluid line 412. Vibration sensing device 418 is configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect vibration in fluid line 412 or other conditions of fluid line 412 from which vibration can be derived. In some examples, vibration sensing device 418 is an accelerometer functionally coupled to the outside of the fluid line. Coolant level sensing device 422 is configured to sense, measure, or otherwise detect the coolant level within buffer tank 420 or other conditions from which the coolant level within buffer tank 420 can be derived. In some examples, one or more of temperature sensing device 414, vibration sensing device 418, and coolant level sensing device 422 may be included in sensing devices 40a-40n.

[0064] Controller 424 is operatively in communication with each other component of cooling system 400. During operation of cooling system 400, controller 424 may receive pump control and feedback from pump 410, temperature feedback from temperature sensing device 414, vibration feedback from vibration sensing device 418, and coolant level feedback from coolant level sensing device 422. Controller 424 may control or activate the operation of pump 410 to allow coolant flow through fluid line 412. In various examples, controller 424 may perform... Figure 3 Method 200 is used to monitor the flow of coolant within fluid line 412.

[0065] In this example, fluid line 412 includes a segment 426 with a geometric change configured to amplify vibration signals sensed in fluid line 412 at a location immediately downstream of vibration sensing device 418. In some examples, the geometric change is configured such that coolant flow prior to segment 426 is transverse to coolant flow at the location of vibration sensing device 418. Figure 5 In the example, segment 426 is implemented as an arc-shaped right-angle or corner segment, which includes a bend of approximately 90° that provides coolant flow perpendicular to the coolant flow at the location of vibration sensing device 418 prior to segment 426. Segment 426 is exemplary, and other geometric variations may be provided in fluid line 412 to amplify the vibration signal.

[0066] The systems and methods disclosed herein offer various benefits superior to certain existing systems and methods. For example, losses in coolant flow to electronic devices can lead to overheating and / or malfunction. The systems and methods disclosed herein provide for monitoring, classifying, and optionally reporting coolant flow based on vibrations sensed therein. Therefore, the systems and methods disclosed herein achieve improvements to vehicle-based cooling systems.

[0067] While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be understood that numerous variations exist. It should also be understood that the exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of this disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing the exemplary embodiments or multiple exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for monitoring a fluid line in a vehicle, comprising: receiving, by one or more processors, vehicle status data of the vehicle; determining, by the one or more processors, a recommended flow rate for coolant based on the vehicle status data; determining, by the one or more processors, a vibration signal threshold based on the vehicle status data and the recommended flow rate; operating a pump of the vehicle to flow the coolant through the fluid line at the recommended flow rate to remove heat generated by electronic equipment of the vehicle, wherein the recommended flow rate is configured to maintain the electronic equipment below a predetermined temperature; determining, by the one or more processors, whether the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is stable; sensing, with a sensing device of the vehicle, vibrations in the fluid line caused by the flow of the coolant therein; determining, by the one or more processors, one or more signal characteristics of the vibrations sensed by the sensing device when the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is stable; and Remedial action is initiated, by the one or more processors, based on a comparison of the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration to the vibration signal threshold.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The sensing device is disposed at a location in the fluid line downstream of a geometric change configured to amplify a vibration signal sensed in the fluid line at the location of the sensing device.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The sensing device is disposed at a location in the fluid line downstream of a geometric change such that the flow of the coolant prior to the geometric change is transverse to the flow of the coolant at the location of the sensing device.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The vibration signal threshold comprises a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second signal characteristic is less than the first signal characteristic, and the method comprises determining, by the one or more processors, that the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is normal in response to the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration being greater than the first threshold, determining that the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated in response to the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration being between the first threshold and the second threshold, and determining that no coolant is flowing through the fluid line in response to the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration being less than the second threshold.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The sensing device is an accelerometer that is functionally coupled to the exterior of the fluid line such that the accelerometer senses the vibrations of the fluid line without contacting the coolant, and wherein the one or more signal characteristics include at least one of a frequency and an amplitude of the vibrations sensed by the accelerometer.

6. A system for a vehicle, comprising: a cooling system including fluid lines configured to remove heat generated by electronic equipment of the vehicle using a coolant; a pump configured to flow the coolant through the fluid lines of the cooling system; a sensing device configured to sense vibrations in the fluid line caused by the flow of the coolant; as well as a controller in operable communication with the pump and the sensing device, the controller being configured by one or more processors to: receiving vehicle status data of the vehicle; determining a recommended flow rate for the coolant of the cooling system based on the vehicle status data, wherein the recommended flow rate is configured to maintain the electronic device below a predetermined temperature; determining a vibration signal threshold based on the vehicle status data and the recommended flow rate; initiating operation of the pump to cause the coolant to flow through the fluid line at the recommended flow rate; determining whether the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is stable; receiving sensor data indicative of the vibrations sensed in the fluid line from the sensing device; determining one or more signal characteristics of the vibrations sensed by the sensing device when the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is stable; and Remedial action is initiated based on a comparison of the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration to the vibration signal threshold.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The sensing device is disposed downstream of a geometric change in the fluid line, the geometric change being configured to amplify a vibration signal sensed in the fluid line at the location of the sensing device.

8. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The sensing device is disposed downstream of a geometric change in the fluid line, wherein the flow of the coolant prior to the geometric change is transverse to the flow of the coolant at the location of the sensing device.

9. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The vibration signal threshold comprises a first threshold having a first signal characteristic and a second threshold having a second signal characteristic, wherein the second signal characteristic is less than the first signal characteristic, wherein the controller is configured to determine, by the one or more processors, that the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is normal in response to the one or more signal characteristics being greater than the first threshold, to determine that the flow of the coolant through the fluid line is low or aerated in response to the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration being between the first threshold and the second threshold, and to determine that no coolant is flowing through the fluid line in response to the one or more signal characteristics of the vibration being less than the second threshold.

10. The system according to claim 6, wherein: The sensing device is an accelerometer that is functionally coupled to the exterior of the fluid line such that the accelerometer senses the vibrations of the fluid line without contacting the coolant, and wherein the one or more signal characteristics include at least one of a frequency and an amplitude of the vibrations sensed by the accelerometer.

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