Variable valve timing control system and its control method, control device and equipment

Abstract

This application relates to a variable valve timing control system and its control method, device, and equipment, belonging to the field of engine testing technology. The system includes: an engine electronic control unit (ECU), used to receive crankshaft position sensor signals and camshaft position sensor signals from the engine, determine the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generate an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and a preset target valve timing; the oil control valve control signal is used to control the oil control valve to adjust the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing; and a data conversion module, connected to the ECU, used to receive crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time, generate a motor drive signal, and transmit the motor drive signal to the motor. Using this system can reduce testing complexity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of engine testing technology, and in particular to a variable valve timing control system and its control method, control device and equipment. Background Technology

[0002] During engine bench testing and calibration, VVT (Variable Valve Timing) control technology is typically used to alter the timing of the engine camshaft, thereby controlling the valve overlap angle. Currently, there are two control methods: hydraulic VVT and electric VVT. Hydraulic VVT control technology adjusts the phase by controlling the oil flow on both sides of the rotor connected to the camshaft, causing it to rotate relative to the stator connected to the timing sprocket. Electric VVT control technology is a motor-driven VVT system that controls the motor's speed relative to the camshaft through the camshaft, creating a phase difference between the rotor and stator, thus achieving forward and backward adjustment and maintaining stability of the variable valve timing.

[0003] However, current hydraulic and electric VVT control technologies require dedicated ECUs for signal acquisition and control signal output. When a new mechanism is adopted in the engine and testing is needed, a new dedicated ECU must be purchased. Therefore, current variable valve timing control methods suffer from high testing complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a variable valve timing control system and its control method, control device and equipment that can reduce costs in response to the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0005] A variable valve timing control system, comprising:

[0006] The engine electronic control unit receives signals from the engine crankshaft position sensor and the engine camshaft position sensor, determines the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generates an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and a preset target valve timing. The oil control valve control signal is used to control the oil control valve to adjust the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

[0007] The data conversion module, connected to the engine electronic control unit, is used to receive the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal in real time, generate a motor drive signal, and transmit the motor drive signal to the motor; the motor drive signal is used to control the motor to adjust the speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing.

[0008] In one embodiment, the system further includes:

[0009] The sensor module is connected to the engine electronic control unit and the data conversion module respectively. The sensor module is used to collect the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal in real time, and send the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal to the engine electronic control unit and the data conversion module respectively.

[0010] In one embodiment, the system further includes:

[0011] The motor is connected to the data conversion module. The motor is used to send the motor feedback signal to the data conversion module in real time, and to adjust the speed to the target speed in response to the motor drive signal.

[0012] In one embodiment, the motor feedback signal includes one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor direction feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal.

[0013] In one embodiment, the system further includes:

[0014] An oil control valve is connected to the engine electronic control unit. The oil control valve is used to adjust the oil flow rate and oil flow direction to a target oil flow rate and target oil flow direction corresponding to the preset target valve timing in response to the control signal of the oil control valve.

[0015] A variable valve timing control method, applied to the data conversion module of the variable valve timing control system described in the above embodiments, includes:

[0016] It receives crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time.

[0017] Based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal, a motor drive signal is generated and sent to the engine motor.

[0018] In one embodiment, the motor feedback signal includes one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal. The step of generating a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal includes:

[0019] The operating status of the motor is determined based on the status monitoring feedback signal;

[0020] When the motor is in normal working condition, a motor drive signal is generated based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, the motor steering feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal.

[0021] In one embodiment, generating a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, the motor steering feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal includes:

[0022] The control strategy is determined based on the control signal from the oil control valve.

[0023] The target wheel speed of the motor is determined based on the control strategy, the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, and the motor steering feedback signal.

[0024] Based on the control strategy and the target wheel speed, a motor drive signal is generated; the motor drive signal is used to adjust the actual wheel speed of the motor to the target wheel speed, so as to advance, maintain or retract the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

[0025] A variable valve timing control device, applied to the data conversion module of the variable valve timing control system described in the above embodiments, includes:

[0026] The signal receiving module is used to receive crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time.

[0027] The motor drive module is used to generate a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor feedback signal of the engine, and the oil control valve control signal, and send the motor drive signal to the motor of the engine.

[0028] A computer device includes a memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, and the processor executing the computer program performing the following steps:

[0029] It receives crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time.

[0030] Based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal, a motor drive signal is generated and sent to the engine motor.

[0031] The aforementioned variable valve timing control system, its control method, control device, and equipment include an engine electronic control unit (ECU) and a data conversion module. The ECU receives signals from the engine's crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor, determines the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generates an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and a preset target valve timing to control the hydraulic variable valve timing. The data conversion module, connected to the ECU, receives real-time signals from the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, engine motor feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal, generates a motor drive signal, and transmits it to the motor. This motor drive signal controls the motor to adjust its speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing. The oil valve control signal is converted into a motor drive signal adapted to electric variable valve timing control. This allows the same ECU to control both hydraulic and electric variable valve timing, eliminating the need for a dedicated ECU for engine control and testing, thus reducing testing complexity and cost. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a hydraulic VVT control system in related technologies;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of an electric VVT control system in related technologies;

[0035] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the variable valve timing control system in one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a variable valve timing control method in one embodiment;

[0037] Figure 5This is a flowchart illustrating the variable valve timing control method in another embodiment;

[0038] Figure 6 This is a structural block diagram of a variable valve timing control device in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 7 This is an internal structural diagram of a computer device in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more complete description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure of this application will be thorough and complete.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, 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 application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0042] Spatial relation terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “under,” “above,” “above,” etc., are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature shown in the figure and other elements or features. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure, spatial relation terms also include different orientations of the device in use and operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element or feature described as “below,” “under,” or “below” will be oriented “above” the other element or feature. Therefore, the exemplary terms “below” and “under” can include both above and below orientations. Furthermore, the device may also include other orientations (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or other orientations), and the spatial descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0043] It should be noted that when one element is considered to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or connected to the other element through an intermediary element. Furthermore, in the following embodiments, "connection" should be understood as "electrical connection," "communication connection," etc., if there is transmission of electrical signals or data between the connected objects.

[0044] When used herein, the singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” may also include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” etc., specify the presence of the stated feature, whole, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0045] As described in the background section, the variable valve timing control methods in related technologies suffer from high testing complexity. The inventors have discovered that this problem arises because current technologies primarily employ hydraulic and electric VVT control systems, such as… Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of a hydraulic VVT control system in related technologies. The hydraulic VVT control system controls the oil flow on both sides of the rotor connected to the camshaft, causing the rotor to rotate relative to the stator connected to the timing sprocket, thereby adjusting the phase. The OCV (Oil Control Valve) is a PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) type solenoid control valve. Oil is supplied to the engine by the engine's oil pump via the OCV valve. The control signal for the OCV valve is generated by the engine's electronic control system based on the crankshaft and camshaft position sensor signals, calculating the relative positions of the rotor and stator. Figure 2 The diagram shows the structure of an electric VVT control system in related technologies. This electric VVT control system is a motor-driven VVT system. It controls the motor's speed relative to the camshaft by controlling the camshaft speed, creating a phase difference between the rotor and stator, thereby achieving valve timing adjustment, repositioning, and stabilization. The motor drive signal is generated by the motor electronic control unit based on signals from the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors, as well as feedback signals from the motor. However, currently, engines equipped with hydraulic and electric VVT systems use their own dedicated electronic control units for signal acquisition and control signal output. This necessitates the development and procurement of dedicated control software and hardware for electronic control units to control and test the engine. When a new mechanism is adopted in the engine and testing is required, significant development and procurement costs are incurred, and the testing cycle is extended.

[0046] For the reasons mentioned above, this invention provides a variable valve timing control system and its control method, control device and equipment, which can be adapted to both hydraulic VVT and electric VVT, thereby reducing the testing complexity.

[0047] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, a variable valve timing control system is provided, comprising:

[0048] Engine electronic control unit 301 and data conversion module 302.

[0049] The engine electronic control unit 301 receives signals from the engine crankshaft position sensor and the engine camshaft position sensor, determines the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generates an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and the preset target valve timing. The data conversion module 302 is connected to the engine electronic control unit 301 and receives signals from the crankshaft position sensor, the camshaft position sensor, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal in real time, generates a motor drive signal, and transmits the motor drive signal to the motor.

[0050] The engine electronic control unit 301 can be an engine ECU (Electronic Control Unit), a computer system used to control various functions of a vehicle. It can regulate the operation of multiple systems such as engine management, transmission control, air suspension, braking system, and vehicle stability system. An engine is a machine that converts chemical energy into mechanical energy, mainly composed of cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, and camshaft. The crankshaft is a crucial component of the engine, converting the reciprocating motion of the piston into rotational motion. The rotation of the crankshaft directly drives the vehicle's tires and affects the engine's output power and torque. The camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves and is usually connected to the crankshaft. The shape of the cams on the camshaft determines the valve opening stroke and time, thus affecting valve timing.

[0051] Valve timing refers to the angle and sequence of valve opening and closing relative to crankshaft rotation in an engine.

[0052] Among them, the oil control valve control signal is used to control the oil control valve to adjust the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

[0053] Among them, the motor drive signal is used to control the motor to adjust the speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing.

[0054] Understandably, the engine electronic control unit 301 can be an engine electronic control unit 301 corresponding to a hydraulic selectable valve timing control system. When the variable valve timing to be controlled is hydraulic, the engine electronic control unit 301 is connected to the oil control valve. The engine electronic control unit 301 can calculate the actual position of the camshaft using the crankshaft position sensor signal and the engine camshaft position sensor signal, thereby determining the actual valve timing of the camshaft. It then acquires the preset valve timing set according to the actual engine requirements. Based on the software control strategy, the engine electronic control unit 301 compares the actual valve timing with the preset valve timing, determines the phase value that needs to be adjusted to achieve the preset valve timing, and generates a control signal for the oil control valve. When the variable valve timing to be controlled is hydraulic, the engine electronic control unit 301 sends a control signal from the oil control valve to the oil control valve to adjust the actual valve timing of the camshaft. When the variable valve timing to be controlled is electric, the engine electronic control unit 301 sends the control signal from the oil control valve to the data conversion module 302 for further processing. Both hydraulic and electric variable valve timing are controlled by the same engine electronic control unit 301, eliminating the need for separate software versions for each type of engine electronic control unit 301.

[0055] Furthermore, when the variable valve timing to be controlled is electric, the data conversion module 302 receives the oil control valve control signal sent by the engine electronic control unit 301. Based on the control strategy of the oil control signal and the motor feedback signal of the engine, it determines the variable valve adjustment strategy adapted to the motor and generates the corresponding motor drive signal, thereby controlling the motor to adjust the actual valve timing of the camshaft to the preset target valve timing.

[0056] The aforementioned variable valve timing control system includes an engine electronic control unit 301 and a data conversion module 302. The engine electronic control unit 301 receives signals from the engine crankshaft position sensor and the engine camshaft position sensor, determines the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generates an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and a preset target valve timing to control the hydraulic variable valve timing. The data conversion module 302 is connected to the engine electronic control unit 301 and receives signals from the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, and engine electronic control unit in real time. The engine feedback signal and the oil control valve control signal are used to generate a motor drive signal, which is then transmitted to the motor. The motor drive signal is used to control the motor to adjust its speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing. The oil valve control signal is converted into a motor drive signal adapted to the electric variable valve timing control. This allows the same engine electronic control unit 301 to control both hydraulic and electric variable valve timing, eliminating the need to purchase a dedicated engine electronic control unit 301 for engine control and testing, thereby reducing testing complexity and lowering costs.

[0057] In one exemplary embodiment, see further... Figure 3 The variable valve timing control system described in the above embodiments further includes:

[0058] Sensor module 303; wherein, sensor module 303 is connected to engine electronic control unit 301 and data conversion module 302 respectively, and sensor module 303 is used to collect crankshaft position sensor signal and camshaft position sensor signal in real time, and send crankshaft position sensor signal and camshaft position sensor signal to engine electronic control unit 301 and data conversion module 302 respectively.

[0059] Understandably, sensor module 303 includes a crankshaft position sensor and a camshaft position sensor, both of which are connected to the engine electronic control unit 301 and the data conversion module 302, respectively. The crankshaft position sensor collects the engine's crankshaft position sensor signal and sends it to both the engine electronic control unit 301 and the data conversion module 302. Similarly, the camshaft position sensor collects the engine's camshaft position sensor signal and sends it to both the engine electronic control unit 301 and the data conversion module 302. This lays the groundwork for subsequently determining the actual valve timing of the camshaft, generating oil control valve signals and motor drive signals, and providing data support for the variable valve timing control system to achieve hydraulic and electric variable valve timing control.

[0060] In one exemplary embodiment, see further... Figure 3 The variable valve timing control system described in the above embodiments further includes:

[0061] Motor 304; wherein, motor 304 is connected to data conversion module 302, and motor 304 is used to send motor feedback signals to data conversion module 302 in real time, and to adjust the speed to the target speed in response to motor drive signals.

[0062] The motor feedback signals include one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor direction feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal.

[0063] Understandably, the motor 304 can be mounted on the crankshaft of the engine. The camshaft is driven to rotate by the crankshaft. The motor drive signal controls the motor 304 to increase, decrease, or maintain its speed relative to the camshaft, thereby achieving the forward adjustment, backward adjustment, or keeping the actual valve timing unchanged.

[0064] It should be noted that when the engine controlled by the optional valve timing control system is an electrically variable valve timing engine, the engine motor 304 is connected to the data conversion module 302 of the optional valve timing control system. When the engine controlled by the optional valve timing control system is a hydraulically variable valve timing engine, the data conversion module 302 may not be operational. In a preferred embodiment, the motor feedback signals sent by the motor 304 to the data conversion module 302 include motor speed feedback signals, motor direction feedback signals, and status monitoring feedback signals. This allows the data conversion module 302 to understand the current operating status of the motor 304 from multiple dimensions, assisting the data conversion module 302 in controlling the motor 304. Furthermore, understanding the operating status of the motor 304 allows the data conversion module 302 to more accurately convert the oil control valve control strategy into a motor control strategy.

[0065] In one exemplary embodiment, see further... Figure 3 The variable valve timing control system described in the above embodiments further includes:

[0066] Oil control valve 305; wherein, oil control valve 305 is connected to engine electronic control unit 301, and oil control valve 305 is used to adjust oil flow rate and oil flow direction to target oil flow rate and target oil flow direction corresponding to preset target valve timing in response to oil control valve control signal.

[0067] It should be noted that when the variable valve timing control system needs to control the hydraulic variable valve timing, the engine electronic control unit 301 is connected to the oil control valve 305; when the variable valve timing control system does not need to control the hydraulic variable valve timing, the engine electronic control unit 301 is not connected to the oil control valve 305. The oil control valve 305 responds to the control signal from the oil control valve and controls the oil flow rate and direction into the corresponding oil chambers on both sides of the rotor connected to the engine camshaft. The pressure difference generated by the amount of oil flowing into the two oil chambers causes the rotor to rotate the camshaft, thereby adjusting the actual valve timing of the camshaft to the preset target valve timing, achieving accurate control of the hydraulic variable valve timing by the variable valve timing control system.

[0068] In one exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 4 As shown, a variable valve timing control method is provided, applied to the data conversion module of the variable valve timing control system described in any of the above embodiments, comprising:

[0069] Step S402: Receive crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, engine motor feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal in real time.

[0070] The engine's motor can be a DC motor or a stepper motor, which drives the valve stroke in response to motor control signals, thereby achieving optimal valve timing adjustment under different speeds and loads. The feedback signal can be the operating status and parameters fed back from the motor to the data conversion module.

[0071] Optionally, the data conversion module receives crankshaft position sensor signals and camshaft position sensor signals from the sensor module in real time, receives motor feedback signals from the engine's electric motor, and receives oil control valve control signals sent by the engine electronic control unit as data support.

[0072] Step S404: Based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, engine motor feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal, generate a motor drive signal and send the motor drive signal to the engine motor.

[0073] Among them, the motor drive signal is used to control the engine motor to adjust the speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing.

[0074] Optionally, the data conversion module calculates the actual speed and phase of the camshaft based on the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal, determines the current working state and working parameters of the motor based on the motor feedback signal of the engine, and determines the control strategy of the engine electronic control unit based on the oil control valve control signal. Further, based on the actual speed and phase of the camshaft, the current working state and working parameters of the motor, and the control strategy of the engine electronic control unit, the module generates a motor drive signal and sends the motor drive signal to the engine motor.

[0075] In this embodiment, the data conversion module receives data from multiple dimensions related to the engine's current valve timing as data support, and further converts the oil control valve control signal used by the engine electronic control unit to control the hydraulic variable valve timing into a motor drive signal. This enables the engine electronic control unit used to control the hydraulic variable valve timing to control the electric variable valve timing, avoiding the need to set up separate engine electronic control units with dedicated functions for both. Only one engine electronic control unit can be used to control both types of variable valve timing, thereby reducing costs.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the motor feedback signal includes one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal. Step S504 generates a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, engine motor feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal, and sends the motor drive signal to the engine motor, including:

[0077] Based on the status monitoring feedback signal, the working status of the motor is determined; when the motor is in normal working status, the motor drive signal is generated based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal.

[0078] Among them, the status monitoring signal is data obtained by monitoring the working status of the motor, which is used to reflect the operating condition of the motor, including normal operation and abnormality, as well as the fault type of the abnormality.

[0079] Optionally, the data conversion module determines the motor's operating status based on the status monitoring feedback signal. If an abnormality is detected, the motor stops operating and performs an alarm according to a preset method. If the motor is operating normally, the data conversion module determines the motor control strategy corresponding to adjusting the current actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal, and generates a motor drive signal.

[0080] In this embodiment, the operating status of the motor is determined by the status monitoring feedback signal of the motor, so as to detect motor faults in a timely manner and take corresponding measures. The motor drive signal is only generated to adjust and control the motor when it is determined that the motor is working normally, thereby improving the reliability of the system.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, the steps of the above embodiment to generate a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal include:

[0082] Based on the control signal from the oil control valve, a control strategy is determined; based on the control strategy, crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, motor speed feedback signal, and motor steering feedback signal, the target wheel speed of the motor is determined; based on the control strategy and the target wheel speed, a motor drive signal is generated.

[0083] Among them, the motor drive signal is used to adjust the actual wheel speed of the motor to the target wheel speed, so as to advance, maintain or retract the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

[0084] The target wheel speed can be the motor wheel speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing.

[0085] Optionally, the data conversion module determines the control strategy, including the adjustment method and the phase difference to be adjusted, based on the oil control valve control signal. The adjustment method may include advancing, reversing, or maintaining the actual valve timing. The data conversion module determines the actual wheel speed and actual phase of the camshaft based on the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal. Furthermore, it determines the current direction of the motor based on the motor speed feedback signal and the current wheel speed of the motor based on the motor direction feedback signal. Further, the data conversion module calculates the target wheel speed of the motor based on the phase difference to be adjusted, the actual wheel speed and actual phase of the camshaft, the motor direction, and the motor wheel speed. Based on the control strategy and the target wheel speed, a motor drive signal is generated to achieve the control of advancing, reversing, or maintaining the actual valve timing.

[0086] In this embodiment, the data conversion module determines the valve timing adjustment strategy based on the control signal from the oil control valve, and determines the target wheel speed of the motor by integrating multi-dimensional engine data, generating the corresponding motor drive signal to achieve valve timing control, thus realizing dynamic and accurate adjustment of valve timing.

[0087] In one exemplary embodiment, another variable valve timing control method is provided, such as... Figure 5 As shown, it specifically includes:

[0088] The engine ECU (Electronic Control Unit) calculates and sets the valve timing based on engine operating conditions, i.e., the target position (preset target valve timing); and calculates the actual position of the camshaft (actual valve timing) based on signals collected from the crankshaft position sensor and camshaft position sensor. The ECU compares the target position and the actual position, and according to the control strategy of the ECU software, sends an OCV valve control signal to adjust the camshaft timing angle by advancing, lagging, or keeping the VVT ​​phase unchanged. Optionally, the OCV valve control signal, as the control signal for a hydraulic VVT, cannot control an electric VVT; therefore, a data conversion module is designed to control the electric VVT.

[0089] The data conversion module is used to acquire crankshaft position sensor signals and camshaft position sensor signals, calculate camshaft speed and phase; acquire electric VVT motor speed feedback signals based on motor speed feedback signals, calculate the current motor speed; acquire electric VVT motor steering feedback signals based on motor steering feedback signals, read the current motor steering; acquire electric VVT status monitoring feedback signals based on status monitoring feedback signals, read the current electric VVT status information, and respond accordingly; acquire OCV valve control signals sent by the ECU based on OCV valve control signals, read the ECU's advance, lag, and hold commands for VVT phase based on engine operating conditions; and calculate the current target motor speed based on crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, motor speed feedback signals, motor steering feedback signals, status monitoring feedback signals, and OCV valve control signals, according to the corresponding control strategy, generate a motor drive signal, send it to the electric VVT motor drive signal terminal, control the motor speed relative to the camshaft, and realize camshaft timing advance, lag, and position holding.

[0090] In this embodiment, the OCV valve control signal from the ECU of the hydraulic VVT function and the feedback signal of the electric VVT are processed by the data conversion module to generate corresponding motor drive signals for controlling and regulating the electric VVT. This achieves the goal of using a single ECU to control two types of VVTs in engine bench testing, saving time and procurement costs associated with developing new dedicated ECU software and hardware for different VVT mechanisms.

[0091] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0092] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a variable valve timing control device for implementing the variable valve timing control method described above. The solution provided by this device is similar to the solution described in the above method; therefore, the specific limitations of the one or more variable valve timing control device embodiments provided below can be found in the limitations of the variable valve timing control method described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0093] In one embodiment, such as Figure 6 As shown, a variable valve timing control device 600 is provided, including: a signal receiving module 601 and a motor drive module 602, wherein:

[0094] The signal receiving module 601 is used to receive crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time.

[0095] The motor drive module 602 is used to generate a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal, and send the motor drive signal to the engine motor.

[0096] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the motor drive module 602 is also used to determine the working state of the motor based on the status monitoring feedback signal; when the working state of the motor is normal operation, it generates a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, the motor steering feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal.

[0097] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the motor drive module 602 is also used to determine a control strategy based on the control signal from the oil control valve;

[0098] Based on the control strategy, crankshaft position sensor signal, camshaft position sensor signal, motor speed feedback signal, and motor steering feedback signal, the target wheel speed of the motor is determined; based on the control strategy and the target wheel speed, a motor drive signal is generated; the motor drive signal is used to adjust the actual wheel speed of the motor to the target wheel speed, so as to advance, maintain, or retract the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

[0099] Each module in the aforementioned variable valve timing control device 600 can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in or independent of the processor in a computer device in hardware form, or stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the operations corresponding to each module.

[0100] In one embodiment, a computer device is provided, which may be a server, and its internal structure diagram may be as follows: Figure 7 As shown, the computer device includes a processor, memory, and a network interface connected via a system bus. The processor provides computational and control capabilities. The memory includes non-volatile storage media and internal memory. The non-volatile storage media stores the operating system, computer programs, and a database. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs stored in the non-volatile storage media. The database stores data such as crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals. The network interface is used for communication with external terminals via a network connection. When executed by the processor, the computer program implements a variable valve timing control method.

[0101] Those skilled in the art will understand that Figure 7 The structure shown is merely a block diagram of a portion of the structure related to the present application and does not constitute a limitation on the computer device to which the present application is applied. Specific computer devices may include more or fewer components than those shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0102] In one embodiment, a computer device is also provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0103] In one embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0104] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps in the above method embodiments.

[0105] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the processes in the above embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. The computer program can be stored in a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the computer program can include the processes of the embodiments described above. Any references to memory, databases, or other media used in the embodiments provided in this application can include at least one of non-volatile and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can include read-only memory (ROM), magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash memory, optical memory, high-density embedded non-volatile memory, resistive random access memory (ReRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), phase change memory (PCM), graphene memory, etc. Volatile memory can include random access memory (RAM) or external cache memory, etc. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM can take many forms, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM). The databases involved in the embodiments provided in this application may include at least one type of relational database and non-relational database. Non-relational databases may include, but are not limited to, blockchain-based distributed databases. The processors involved in the embodiments provided in this application may be general-purpose processors, central processing units, graphics processing units, digital signal processors, programmable logic devices, quantum computing-based data processing logic devices, etc., and are not limited to these.

[0106] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "some embodiments," "other embodiments," and "ideal embodiments" indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative descriptions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments or examples.

[0107] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0108] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention patent. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A variable valve timing control system, characterized in that, include: The engine electronic control unit corresponding to the hydraulic selectable valve timing control system receives signals from the engine crankshaft position sensor and the engine camshaft position sensor, determines the actual valve timing of the camshaft, and generates an oil control valve control signal based on the actual valve timing and a preset target valve timing. When the variable valve timing to be controlled is hydraulic, the oil control valve control signal is sent to the oil control valve. This oil control valve control signal controls the oil control valve to adjust the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing. When the variable valve timing to be controlled is electric, the oil control valve control signal is sent to the data conversion module. The data conversion module, connected to the engine electronic control unit, is used to receive in real time the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal when the variable valve timing to be controlled is electric, generate a motor drive signal, and transmit the motor drive signal to the motor; the motor drive signal is used to control the motor to adjust the speed to the target speed corresponding to the preset target valve timing.

2. The variable valve timing control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system also includes: The sensor module is connected to the engine electronic control unit and the data conversion module respectively. The sensor module is used to collect the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal in real time, and send the crankshaft position sensor signal and the camshaft position sensor signal to the engine electronic control unit and the data conversion module respectively.

3. The variable valve timing control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system also includes: The motor is connected to the data conversion module. The motor is used to send the motor feedback signal to the data conversion module in real time, and to adjust the speed to the target speed in response to the motor drive signal.

4. The variable valve timing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The motor feedback signal includes one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor direction feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal.

5. The variable valve timing control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system also includes: An oil control valve is connected to the engine electronic control unit. The oil control valve is used to adjust the oil flow rate and oil flow direction to a target oil flow rate and target oil flow direction corresponding to the preset target valve timing in response to the control signal of the oil control valve.

6. A variable valve timing control method, characterized in that, A data conversion module applied to the variable valve timing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: When the variable valve timing to be controlled is electric, it receives in real time signals from the crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, engine motor feedback signal, and oil control valve control signal sent by the engine electronic control unit corresponding to the hydraulic selectable valve timing control system. Based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal, a motor drive signal is generated and sent to the engine motor.

7. The variable valve timing control method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The motor feedback signal includes one or more of the following: motor speed feedback signal, motor steering feedback signal, and status monitoring feedback signal. The step of generating a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the engine motor feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal includes: The operating status of the motor is determined based on the status monitoring feedback signal; When the motor is in normal working condition, a motor drive signal is generated based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, the motor steering feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal.

8. The variable valve timing control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The step of generating a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, the motor steering feedback signal, and the oil control valve control signal includes: The control strategy is determined based on the control signal from the oil control valve. The target wheel speed of the motor is determined based on the control strategy, the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor speed feedback signal, and the motor steering feedback signal. Based on the control strategy and the target wheel speed, a motor drive signal is generated; the motor drive signal is used to adjust the actual wheel speed of the motor to the target wheel speed, so as to advance, maintain or retract the actual valve timing to the preset target valve timing.

9. A variable valve timing control device, characterized in that, A data conversion module applied to the variable valve timing control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: The signal receiving module is used to receive crankshaft position sensor signals, camshaft position sensor signals, engine motor feedback signals, and oil control valve control signals in real time. The motor drive module is used to generate a motor drive signal based on the crankshaft position sensor signal, the camshaft position sensor signal, the motor feedback signal of the engine, and the oil control valve control signal, and send the motor drive signal to the motor of the engine.

10. A computer device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, characterized in that, When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 6 to 8.

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