Engine high-pressure oil pump system, engine assembly, and vehicle

Abstract

The application provides an engine high-pressure oil pump system, an engine assembly and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of vehicle structures. The engine high-pressure oil pump system comprises: a high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe, a middle-section connecting oil pipe and a high-pressure oil pump body connected in sequence; and an elastic fuel sensor arranged on the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe; wherein the elastic fuel sensor is suitable for detecting the ethanol content of fuel in the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe. The elastic fuel sensor is directly installed at the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe through integrated design, the length of the oil circuit is shortened, and the detection accuracy is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle structure technology, specifically to an engine high-pressure oil pump system, an engine assembly, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With increasingly stringent global requirements for energy conservation and emission reduction, the application of flexible fuels (especially ethanol-blended fuels) is becoming more widespread. Particularly in overseas markets such as Brazil, the ethanol content significantly impacts engine combustion efficiency, emissions levels, and fuel economy, making accurate detection of ethanol content in fuel particularly important.

[0003] In existing technology, a freestanding flexible fuel sensor (ethanol sensor) is installed on the vehicle's fuel line to monitor and report the ethanol concentration in the fuel to the engine control unit (ECU) in real time to optimize combustion parameters. Currently, most freestanding flexible fuel sensors on the market are installed far from the engine, such as near the fuel tank, chassis, or engine compartment. This results in an excessively long fuel line between the sensor and the engine, leading to increased residual fuel and affecting the sensor's detection accuracy, which in turn affects the ECU's data control accuracy. Utility Model Content

[0004] To address at least one of the technical problems existing in the background art, this application provides an engine high-pressure oil pump system that integrates a flexible fuel sensor directly onto the oil inlet pipe of the high-pressure oil pump, thereby shortening the oil circuit length and improving detection accuracy.

[0005] A second aspect of this application provides an engine assembly.

[0006] A third aspect of this application provides a vehicle.

[0007] The technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: The first aspect of this application provides an engine high-pressure oil pump system, including: The high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe, the intermediate connecting oil pipe and the high-pressure oil pump body are connected in sequence. An elastic fuel sensor is installed on the oil inlet pipe of the high-pressure oil pump; The elastic fuel sensor is adapted to detect the ethanol content of the fuel in the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe.

[0008] According to the engine high-pressure fuel pump system provided in the first aspect of this application, the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe is used to guide and deliver fuel from the fuel tank to the high-pressure fuel pump system. As the first channel before the fuel enters the high-pressure fuel pump body, it undertakes the function of stable fuel supply. The intermediate connecting pipe connects the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe and the high-pressure fuel pump body to realize continuous fuel transmission and ensure the sealing and pressure stability of the fuel circuit. The high-pressure fuel pump body is responsible for pressurizing the low-pressure fuel to meet the high-pressure fuel requirements of high-precision fuel injection systems such as direct injection. The elastic fuel sensor is directly installed on the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe, which can detect the ethanol content in the fuel in real time before the fuel enters the high-pressure fuel pump without having to be transported through a long fuel circuit, thereby avoiding the fuel retention and response lag problems caused by traditional remote placement. This system integrates a flexible fuel sensor into the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe, achieving a high proximity between the detection point and the fuel supply inlet of the combustion system. This significantly shortens the detection fuel path length, improves the timeliness and accuracy of ethanol concentration signal feedback, and enables the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the control strategy more quickly and accurately based on the actual fuel composition, optimize the combustion process, improve fuel economy, and reduce emissions.

[0009] In addition, based on the above integrated structure, the additional piping required for independent sensor installation is eliminated, simplifying the overall structure, reducing assembly difficulty and potential leakage risks, improving the system's integration and reliability, and effectively suppressing vibration transmission caused by fuel pulsation due to the shortened oil circuit, which is conducive to improving the vehicle's NVH performance and achieving a compact and lightweight design.

[0010] According to one embodiment of this application, the engine high-pressure oil pump system further includes a sensor mounting bracket, which is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body; The elastic fuel sensor is fixed to the high-pressure oil pump body via the sensor mounting bracket.

[0011] By connecting the flexible fuel sensor to the high-pressure oil pump body using a sensor mounting bracket, the flexible fuel sensor is stably fixed and accurately positioned, avoiding loosening or damage caused by vibration or oil pressure pulsation. At the same time, this installation method facilitates modular assembly, improves assembly efficiency and system reliability, and ensures the robustness and sealing of the connection between the flexible fuel sensor and the high-pressure oil pump body.

[0012] According to one embodiment of this application, the sensor mounting bracket includes a main mounting plate and a bent and extended support arm, wherein the included angle between the support arm and the main mounting plate is 90°; The elastic fuel sensor is connected to the main mounting plate, and the support arm is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body.

[0013] By configuring a sensor mounting bracket consisting of a main mounting plate and a support arm that bends and extends at a 90° angle to it, and connecting the elastic fuel sensor to the main mounting plate and the support arm to the high-pressure fuel pump body, precise positioning and stable support of the sensor in three-dimensional space are achieved. This right-angle bending structure adapts to the compact layout of the engine compartment, avoids interference with surrounding pipelines or components, and improves the vibration and torsional stiffness of the bracket, ensuring reliable operation of the sensor under complex working conditions.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this application, the sensor mounting bracket is an integral stamped structure; The surface of the sensor mounting bracket is coated with an anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating. The end of the support arm is provided with a protruding clamping rib, which is adapted to clamp the high-pressure oil pump body.

[0015] The sensor mounting bracket adopts a one-piece stamped structure, which features high structural strength, good dimensional accuracy, and high production efficiency, facilitating mass production. The surface is coated with an anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating, effectively resisting the harsh environment of the engine compartment, such as humidity, heat, oil, and salt spray, significantly improving the durability and service life of the sensor mounting bracket and ensuring the long-term stable and reliable operation of the elastic fuel sensor. By incorporating raised clamping ribs at the ends of the support arms to hold the high-pressure oil pump body, the connection rigidity and stability between the bracket and the oil pump are enhanced, effectively suppressing vibration transmission and improving the reliability of sensor installation.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this application, a through hole is formed on the housing of the elastic fuel sensor, and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe passes through the through hole.

[0017] By setting through holes in the flexible fuel sensor housing, the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe can be directly inserted through them, achieving integrated installation of the sensor and the inlet pipe. The structure is compact and the connection is reliable. This not only reduces the use of additional pipes and joints and lowers the risk of leakage, but also ensures the sensor's real-time and accurate detection of fuel components.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this application, the elastic fuel sensor includes an ethanol detection element, which is disposed through the wall of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe so that the probe area extends into the interior of the pipe cavity.

[0019] By embedding the ethanol detection element into the wall of the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe, allowing its probe area to penetrate deep into the pipe cavity and directly contact the flowing fuel, the sensitivity and real-time performance of ethanol content detection are significantly improved. This arrangement avoids external sampling delays, ensuring that the detection signal accurately reflects the fuel composition before entering the high-pressure fuel pump, providing precise control data for the engine ECU. At the same time, the compact structure facilitates system integration and improves response speed.

[0020] According to one embodiment of this application, the elastic fuel sensor is arranged in the downstream section of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe.

[0021] By placing the flexible fuel sensor downstream of the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe, making it closer to the fuel inlet of the high-pressure fuel pump body, the distance between the detection point and the fuel injection system is further shortened. This effectively reduces the amount of fuel remaining in the pipeline, improves the real-time performance and accuracy of ethanol content detection, and enables the ECU to respond more quickly to changes in fuel composition and optimize combustion control. At the same time, it helps to reduce the impact of fuel pulsation on the sensor and improve the overall response speed and stability of the system.

[0022] According to one embodiment of this application, one end of the intermediate connecting oil pipe is connected to the oil inlet pipe of the high-pressure oil pump, and the other end of the intermediate connecting oil pipe is connected to the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body. A quick-connect fitting is provided at the connection point between the intermediate connecting oil pipe and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe, and a quick-connect fitting is provided at the connection point between the intermediate connecting oil pipe and the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body.

[0023] The mid-section connecting oil pipe uses quick-connect couplings at both ends, enabling rapid and sealed assembly with the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe and the high-pressure oil pump body inlet. This significantly improves assembly efficiency and production line cycle time. At the same time, the connection is reliable and easy to disassemble, which is beneficial for later maintenance and replacement. This design reduces the use of complex fastening methods such as threaded connections or clamps, reduces the risk of leakage, and enhances the overall sealing and reliability of the oil circuit system.

[0024] A second aspect of this application provides an engine assembly, including: The engine body, and the engine high-pressure oil pump system in any of the embodiments of the first aspect as described above; The engine high-pressure oil pump system is mounted on the engine body; The engine high-pressure oil pump system includes a high-pressure oil pump body, and the high-pressure oil pump body is provided with a connecting flange that connects to the engine body. The engine high-pressure oil pump system includes a flexible fuel sensor, the signal output terminal of which is electrically connected to the ECU module of the engine body.

[0025] The engine assembly provided in the second aspect of this application integrates the engine high-pressure fuel pump system as described in any of the embodiments of the first aspect. By highly integrating the elastic fuel sensor into the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe and close to the engine combustion system, high precision and rapid response of fuel composition detection are achieved. This enables the engine control unit (ECU) to optimize the combustion control strategy based on real-time and accurate ethanol content signals, thereby improving power, fuel economy, and emission performance. At the same time, this integrated design simplifies the fuel system structure, improves assembly efficiency and system reliability, and is beneficial for the mass production of engines and their matching with vehicles.

[0026] The high-pressure oil pump body is connected to the engine body via a connecting flange and reliably fixed using bolt mounting holes on the flange. The structure is simple and easy to install, ensuring the positioning accuracy and connection rigidity of the high-pressure oil pump body on the engine body, and effectively withstanding vibration and oil pressure impact during operation. This standardized flange connection method is conducive to modular assembly and mass production, while improving the convenience of disassembly and maintenance.

[0027] The signal output terminal of the flexible fuel sensor is directly electrically connected to the ECU module of the engine body, realizing real-time and stable transmission of ethanol content detection signals. This enables the ECU to quickly respond to changes in fuel composition, accurately adjust combustion parameters such as fuel injection quantity and ignition timing, optimize engine performance under different proportions of ethanol fuel, improve fuel economy, reduce emissions, and ensure the stability and reliability of engine operation.

[0028] A third aspect of this application provides a vehicle, including: The engine high-pressure oil pump system in any embodiment of the first aspect as described above, or the engine assembly in any embodiment of the second aspect as described above.

[0029] The vehicle provided in the third aspect of this application can achieve high-precision, real-time detection of the ethanol content in flexible fuel, ensuring that the engine is always in the optimal combustion state under different fuel compositions, significantly improving the vehicle's power, fuel economy, and emission performance; at the same time, the system has a compact structure and is easy to assemble, which helps to reduce the overall vehicle manufacturing cost and maintenance difficulty, improve the vehicle's integration level and operational reliability, and is particularly suitable for market environments where ethanol fuel is widely used. Attached Figure Description

[0030] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the engine high-pressure oil pump system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sensor mounting bracket provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the engine assembly provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] in, 1. Engine high-pressure fuel pump system; 11. High-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe; 12. Intermediate connecting fuel pipe; 13. High-pressure fuel pump body; 131. Connecting flange; 14. Flexible fuel sensor; 15. Sensor mounting bracket; 151. Main mounting plate; 152. Support arm; 1521. Clamping rib; 16. Quick-connect coupling; 2. Engine assembly; 21. Engine body. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the overall concept of this application, a detailed explanation is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application may also be implemented in other ways different from those described herein. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments of this application and the features thereof can be combined with each other.

[0034] Furthermore, it should be understood in the description of this application that the terms "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0035] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a communication connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0036] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the "above" or "below" of the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "an embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., 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 this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, a first aspect of this application provides an engine high-pressure oil pump system 1, comprising: The high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11, the intermediate connecting oil pipe 12 and the high-pressure oil pump body 13 are connected in sequence. The elastic fuel sensor 14 is mounted on the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11; Among them, the elastic fuel sensor 14 is suitable for detecting the ethanol content of fuel in the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11.

[0038] Specifically, the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 serves as the first channel for fuel to enter the system, responsible for stably delivering low-pressure fuel from the fuel tank to subsequent components, meeting the requirements of pressure resistance, sealing, and smooth flow. The intermediate connecting pipe 12 connects the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 to the inlet of the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, undertaking the function of continuous fuel transmission, ensuring smooth fuel flow and maintaining pressure stability. The high-pressure fuel pump body 13 receives the detected fuel and pressurizes it to a high-pressure state that meets the requirements of direct injection into the cylinder, supplying the fuel rail and injectors, and is a key actuator for achieving efficient combustion. The flexible fuel sensor 14 is directly installed on the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, which can detect the ethanol content in the fuel in real time and accurately before it enters the high-pressure system, and convert the detection result into an electrical signal to feed back to the engine control unit (ECU). This allows the ECU to dynamically adjust control parameters such as fuel injection quantity, ignition timing, and air-fuel ratio according to the actual fuel composition, thereby optimizing the combustion process, improving power output, and reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

[0039] The flexible fuel sensor 14 integrates an ethanol detection element. This element directly contacts or senses the fuel flowing through the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, detecting the difference in the ratio of ethanol to gasoline in the fuel in real time and converting the detection signal into an electrical signal output. By highly integrating the detection element inside the sensor and tightly combining it with the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, the continuity and accuracy of the detection process are ensured. This effectively avoids the response lag and fuel composition deviation problems caused by excessively long fuel lines in traditional split sensors, further improving the engine control unit's (ECU) recognition speed and control accuracy for different proportions of ethanol fuel, and providing reliable data support for achieving efficient and clean combustion.

[0040] According to the engine high-pressure fuel pump system 1 provided in the first aspect embodiment of this application, the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 is used to guide and deliver fuel from the fuel tank to the high-pressure fuel pump system. As the first channel before the fuel enters the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, it undertakes the function of stable fuel supply. The intermediate connecting pipe 12 connects the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 and the high-pressure fuel pump body 13 to realize continuous fuel transmission and ensure the sealing and pressure stability of the fuel circuit. The high-pressure fuel pump body 13 is responsible for pressurizing the low-pressure fuel to meet the high-pressure fuel requirements of high-precision fuel injection systems such as direct injection. The elastic fuel sensor 14 is directly installed on the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 and can detect the ethanol content in the fuel in real time before it enters the high-pressure fuel pump. It does not need to be transported through a long fuel circuit, thereby avoiding the fuel retention and response lag problems caused by traditional remote placement. By integrating the flexible fuel sensor 14 into the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, the system achieves a high proximity between the detection point and the fuel supply inlet of the combustion system, significantly shortening the detection oil path length and improving the timeliness and accuracy of ethanol concentration signal feedback. This enables the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust the control strategy more quickly and accurately according to the actual fuel composition, optimize the combustion process, improve fuel economy, and reduce emissions.

[0041] In addition, based on the above integrated structure, the additional piping required for independent sensor installation is eliminated, simplifying the overall structure, reducing assembly difficulty and potential leakage risks, improving the system's integration and reliability, and effectively suppressing vibration transmission caused by fuel pulsation due to the shortened oil circuit, which is conducive to improving the vehicle's NVH performance and achieving a compact and lightweight design.

[0042] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 further includes a sensor mounting bracket 15, which is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body 13. The elastic fuel sensor 14 is fixed to the high-pressure oil pump body 13 via the sensor mounting bracket 15.

[0043] Specifically, the sensor mounting bracket 15 serves as a connection and support component. One end is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body 13, and the other end is used to fix the elastic fuel sensor 14, thereby achieving precise positioning and stable installation of the elastic fuel sensor 14. This bracket not only provides mechanical support, ensuring that the elastic fuel sensor 14 remains stable under complex operating conditions such as vibration, thermal expansion, and oil pressure pulsation during engine operation, preventing loosening, displacement, or damage, but also optimizes the spatial layout, making the elastic fuel sensor 14 and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 form a compact integrated structure, improving system integration.

[0044] By fixing the flexible fuel sensor 14 to the high-pressure fuel pump body 13 via the sensor mounting bracket 15, modular integration is achieved, changing the traditional mode where independent sensors need to be installed separately on the vehicle frame or pipeline. This integrated installation method significantly reduces dependence on external installation space and avoids the difficulty of finding a suitable installation location in the chassis or engine compartment, making it particularly suitable for compact engine compartment layouts. At the same time, since the flexible fuel sensor 14 and the high-pressure fuel pump body 13 share the same mounting reference, the consistency and repeatability of assembly are improved, which is conducive to efficient assembly on automated production lines, shortening cycle time and reducing the risk of errors caused by manual intervention.

[0045] Furthermore, based on the above structure, the entire engine high-pressure fuel pump system 1 becomes a pre-installable and pre-testable functional module. The fuel pump supplier can complete the assembly and functional testing of the flexible fuel sensor 14 before delivery, and the engine manufacturer and vehicle manufacturer can directly install it as a standard component, greatly simplifying the vehicle assembly process and improving production efficiency. The introduction of the sensor mounting bracket 15 also enhances the maintainability of the system—when the sensor needs to be replaced or repaired, there is no need to disassemble the complex fuel system; it can be quickly installed and removed simply by using the bracket fixing point, reducing the difficulty and cost of after-sales maintenance.

[0046] In summary, the sensor mounting bracket 15 not only ensures reliable sensor fixation, but also promotes the modularization and standardization of the fuel detection system, resulting in a reasonable structure, efficient assembly, stable operation, and easy maintenance.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the sensor mounting bracket 15 includes a main mounting plate 151 and a bent and extended support arm 152, with an included angle of 90° between the support arm 152 and the main mounting plate 151. The flexible fuel sensor 14 is connected to the main mounting plate 151, and the support arm 152 is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body 13.

[0048] By configuring the sensor mounting bracket 15, which includes a main mounting plate 151 and a support arm 152 extending at a 90° bend, and mounting the elastic fuel sensor 14 on the main mounting plate 151 and connecting the support arm 152 to the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, the spatial layout of the sensor and the rational transfer of mechanical structure are achieved. This right-angle bend structure makes full use of the limited space in the engine compartment, avoids interference with the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, fuel lines and other surrounding components, and improves the flexibility and integration of the layout. At the same time, the 90° bend design enhances the overall rigidity and torsional resistance of the bracket, effectively withstanding the vibration and impact loads during engine operation, preventing the sensor from failing due to loosening or fatigue fracture, and significantly improving the structural reliability and durability of the system. In addition, this structure facilitates the step-by-step installation and precise positioning of the sensor and the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, which is beneficial to improving the assembly efficiency and consistency of the production line and supports modular manufacturing and mass production applications.

[0049] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the sensor mounting bracket 15 is bolted to the elastic fuel sensor 14, and the sensor mounting bracket 15 is bolted to the high-pressure oil pump body 13.

[0050] The sensor mounting bracket 15 is fixed to the elastic fuel sensor 14 and the high-pressure fuel pump body 13 by bolts, forming a stable, reliable, and detachable mechanical connection chain. This not only ensures the accurate positioning and secure installation of the elastic fuel sensor 14 under complex engine operating conditions, but also effectively withstands impact loads from engine vibration, fuel pulsation, thermal expansion and contraction, and vehicle operation, preventing signal interruption, fuel leakage, or even safety accidents caused by sensor loosening or detachment.

[0051] Bolted connections offer advantages such as high connection strength, strong assembly controllability, and good repeatability of disassembly and assembly. In the production process, bolts can be tightened using a set standard torque, ensuring consistency and reliability in every assembly and meeting the precision and cycle time requirements of automated production lines. Simultaneously, this connection method is compatible with existing engine component manufacturing processes, eliminating the need for developing complex snap-fit ​​or welding structures and reducing process change costs. In after-sales maintenance, when sensors need replacement or high-pressure oil pump overhaul is required, maintenance personnel can easily remove the bolts using conventional tools, enabling rapid sensor replacement or system checks. This significantly improves maintenance convenience and service efficiency, avoiding the problems associated with complete replacements caused by traditional adhesive bonding or non-removable connections.

[0052] Furthermore, the double-sided bolted connection structure makes the sensor mounting bracket 15 a "flexible adapter interface" connecting the elastic fuel sensor 14 and the high-pressure fuel pump body 13. This allows for the adaptation of elastic fuel sensors 14 from different models or suppliers without altering the main structure of the high-pressure fuel pump, enhancing the system's versatility and platform application capabilities. This modular structure facilitates the rapid deployment of this integrated testing system by OEMs across multiple vehicle models and powertrain platforms, shortening development cycles and reducing the variety of parts and inventory costs.

[0053] In summary, the reliable connection between the sensor, bracket, and high-pressure oil pump achieved through bolted connections not only ensures the system's operational stability throughout its entire lifecycle but also meets multiple requirements such as efficient production, convenient maintenance, and platform expansion.

[0054] In some embodiments of this application, the sensor mounting bracket 15 is a one-piece stamped structure; The surface of the sensor mounting bracket 15 is coated with an anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating; The end of the support arm has a protruding clamping rib 1521, which is suitable for clamping the high-pressure oil pump body 13.

[0055] Specifically, the sensor mounting bracket 15 adopts a one-piece stamped structure, meaning it is formed in one go from a single metal sheet using a die, without welding, splicing, or additional assembly processes. This results in a continuous structure with uniform stress, exhibiting high mechanical strength and dimensional stability. This structural design not only precisely matches the mounting interface between the elastic fuel sensor 14 and the high-pressure oil pump body 13, ensuring assembly accuracy and connection rigidity, but also significantly improves the bracket's vibration and fatigue resistance. It maintains structural integrity under long-term high-load engine operation, avoiding the risk of failure due to stress concentration or weld cracking.

[0056] Based on this, the sensor mounting bracket 15 is coated with an anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating (such as electrophoretic paint, zinc plating, or epoxy coating), which can effectively resist the erosion of high temperature, high humidity, oil, salt spray, and chemical corrosive media in the engine compartment, greatly extending the service life of the bracket under harsh working conditions. As one of the most demanding environments in a vehicle, the engine compartment is prone to oxidation and corrosion of metal parts due to alternating hot and cold temperatures and contact with contaminants. This anti-corrosion coating forms a dense physical and chemical barrier, ensuring the appearance integrity and functional reliability of the sensor mounting bracket 15 throughout the entire life cycle of the vehicle, and preventing loosening or weakening of connections due to rust.

[0057] Furthermore, from a manufacturing and cost perspective, the one-piece stamping process is mature, boasts high material utilization, and offers high production efficiency, making it suitable for mass automated production and helping to reduce unit manufacturing costs. Simultaneously, this process facilitates structural optimization design, allowing for weight reduction of the bracket without compromising strength, aligning with the automotive lightweighting trend. Combined with surface anti-corrosion treatment technology, this bracket achieves high strength and durability while also meeting the comprehensive requirements of automotive components for environmental protection, reliability, and economy.

[0058] like Figure 2 As shown, a protruding clamping rib 1521 is provided at the end of the support arm 152, enabling it to clamp onto the high-pressure oil pump body 13, further enhancing the connection rigidity and stability between the sensor mounting bracket 15 and the high-pressure oil pump body 13. This clamping structure not only provides reliable mechanical fixation, effectively suppressing vibration transmission and preventing the bracket from loosening or fatigue cracking due to high-frequency vibration during engine operation, but also achieves auxiliary positioning and anti-loosening functions without adding additional bolt fastening points, improving the overall assembly reliability and impact resistance. Simultaneously, the cooperation between the clamping rib 1521 and the high-pressure oil pump body 13 helps to disperse local stress, avoid stress concentration, extend the bracket's service life, further ensure the long-term stable operation of the elastic fuel sensor 14, and improve the overall durability and safety of the system.

[0059] In summary, the sensor mounting bracket 15, which is integrally stamped and supplemented with anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating, is not only structurally robust, durable and reliable, but also has good manufacturability, economy and environmental adaptability, providing solid support for the long-term stable operation of the elastic fuel sensor 14.

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, a through hole is formed on the housing of the elastic fuel sensor 14, and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 passes through the through hole.

[0061] By providing a through hole in the housing of the flexible fuel sensor 14, and allowing the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 to pass directly through it, an integrated, one-piece connection between the sensor and the inlet pipe is achieved. This structural design not only simplifies the fuel pipeline layout, reduces connection joints and sealing points, effectively reducing the risk of fuel leakage, but also improves the system's compactness and assembly efficiency. Simultaneously, the sensor housing being directly fitted onto the inlet pipe helps improve installation rigidity, enhances vibration resistance, and ensures stable and reliable operation of the sensor under complex engine operating conditions.

[0062] In some embodiments of this application, the flexible fuel sensor 14 includes an ethanol detection element that penetrates the wall of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 so that the probe area extends deep into the pipe cavity.

[0063] By embedding the ethanol detection element in the flexible fuel sensor 14 through the wall of the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, allowing its probe area to directly penetrate into the cavity through which fuel flows, in-situ, real-time detection of fuel components is achieved. This arrangement avoids the response delay and fuel retention problems caused by external sampling or bypass detection, significantly improving the sensitivity, accuracy, and dynamic response speed of ethanol content detection, ensuring that the engine ECU can perform precise control based on fuel information closest to the actual combustion state. Simultaneously, the detection element is directly integrated into the main fuel circuit, resulting in a compact structure that requires no additional installation space, facilitating system miniaturization and high integration design.

[0064] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the elastic fuel sensor 14 is arranged in the downstream section of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11.

[0065] Placing the flexible fuel sensor 14 downstream of the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 means that its detection position is closer to the fuel inlet of the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, located in the last low-pressure fuel path before the fuel enters the high-pressure pressurization system. This structure allows the flexible fuel sensor 14 to directly acquire a fuel sample about to enter the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, minimizing the physical distance between the detection point and the engine fuel injection system, and significantly reducing the problems of residual fuel in the pipeline and response lag caused by traditional remote sensor placement.

[0066] Since the fuel has already flowed through the inlet line at this location, it is fully mixed and its flow state tends to be stable. Therefore, the flexible fuel sensor 14 can obtain a more representative ethanol content signal, avoiding measurement deviations caused by localized uneven concentrations or fuel stratification. At the same time, this location is far from areas prone to bubble formation or pulsation, such as the fuel tank outlet and fuel pump outlet, which helps improve the stability and repeatability of the detection.

[0067] Furthermore, this arrangement enables "near-source detection and near-end control." The detection signal reflects the composition of the actual fuel used for combustion earlier and more accurately, allowing the engine control unit (ECU) to adjust key parameters such as injection pulse width and ignition advance angle in the shortest possible time. This improves the response speed and accuracy of the control closed loop, especially when the vehicle is fueled with different proportions of ethanol or when switching fuels. It can quickly adapt to and maintain the optimal combustion state, effectively improving the smoothness of power output and reducing fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.

[0068] Furthermore, because the flexible fuel sensor 14 is located close to the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, the overall fuel line length is significantly shortened. This not only reduces the volume and weight of the fuel system but also reduces fuel pulsation transmission and NVH issues caused by long fuel lines, thus improving the overall vehicle quietness. At the same time, the compact layout is more conducive to modular integration, making it easier for engine manufacturers to achieve "plug and play" on the assembly line, improving production cycle time and assembly consistency.

[0069] In summary, placing the flexible fuel sensor 14 downstream of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 not only optimizes the detection position to improve the real-time performance, accuracy, and stability of ethanol content identification, but also brings multiple improvements through system-level integration, such as enhanced control performance, simplified structure, improved NVH, and increased assembly efficiency.

[0070] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, one end of the middle connecting oil pipe 12 is connected to the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11, and the other end of the middle connecting oil pipe 12 is connected to the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body 13. A quick-connector 16 is provided at the connection point between the intermediate connecting oil pipe 12 and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11, and a quick-connector 16 is provided at the connection point between the intermediate connecting oil pipe 12 and the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body 13.

[0071] The intermediate connecting oil pipe 12 serves as a crucial oil passage connecting the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 and the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body 13. It is responsible for the stable and sealed delivery of fuel, detected by the elastic fuel sensor 14, to the high-pressure oil pump. One end connects to the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11, and the other end connects to the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body 13, forming the final passage for fuel before it enters the high-pressure pressurization system. To ensure efficient and reliable connection, quick-connect fittings 16 are provided at both ends of the oil pipe, enabling quick and sealed connections with the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe 11 and the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body 13, respectively.

[0072] The quick-connect coupling 16, as a mature fluid connection technology, eliminates the need for threading, clamping, or welding. Oil pipe installation is completed simply by plugging it in, and a reliable, leak-proof, and vibration-resistant connection is achieved through internal sealing rings and locking mechanisms. This design greatly simplifies the assembly process, making operation easy, time-saving, and labor-saving, significantly improving the cycle time efficiency of engine and vehicle assembly lines, especially suitable for automated assembly and high-cycle production scenarios. Simultaneously, the quick-connect structure offers excellent repeatability, allowing for rapid disconnection of the oil line during engine repair, high-pressure oil pump replacement, or sensor maintenance, preventing damage to surrounding components and significantly improving the convenience and efficiency of after-sales maintenance.

[0073] Furthermore, the use of a double-ended quick-connect fitting 16 for the middle section of the oil pipe 12 enables the "modular pre-assembly" capability of the entire high-pressure oil pump system. Components such as the high-pressure oil pump body 13, the flexible fuel sensor 14, and the connecting bracket can be pre-integrated and tested at the supplier's end, and delivered as a complete functional module to the engine plant or vehicle manufacturer. Only oil pipe connection and electrical connection are required on-site for it to be put into use, reducing the complexity and error risk of on-site assembly and improving product consistency and quality control.

[0074] In addition, the quick-connect coupling 16 has excellent sealing performance and pressure resistance. When used with high-temperature resistant and fuel corrosion resistant nylon or composite material oil pipes, it can effectively prevent fuel leakage and ensure the safety of the engine compartment. Its structural design can also absorb a certain amount of assembly tolerance and thermal deformation displacement, alleviate stress concentration caused by engine vibration or temperature changes, and improve the durability and reliability of the oil circuit system.

[0075] In summary, by setting quick-connect fittings 16 at both ends of the intermediate connecting oil pipe 12, not only is the oil circuit connection made faster, more standardized, and sealed, but the modularization and integration of the high-pressure oil pump system are also promoted. While improving assembly efficiency, reducing manufacturing costs, and enhancing maintenance convenience, the safe, stable, and efficient operation of the fuel system is ensured.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, a second aspect of this application provides an engine assembly 2, comprising: Engine body 21, and engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 in any of the embodiments of the first aspect described above; The engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 is mounted on the engine body 21; The engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 includes a high-pressure oil pump body 13, and a connecting flange 131 that is connected to the engine body 21 is provided on the high-pressure oil pump body 13. The engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 includes a flexible fuel sensor 14, the signal output terminal of which is electrically connected to the ECU module of the engine body 21.

[0077] Specifically, the engine body 21 serves as the power source for the entire vehicle, responsible for converting the chemical energy of fuel into mechanical energy through combustion to drive the vehicle; while the high-pressure oil pump system, which integrates the elastic fuel sensor 14, serves as a subsystem for fuel supply and composition sensing, undertaking the core functions of fuel pressurization, real-time detection of ethanol content, and signal feedback. The two are deeply integrated through mechanical connection, oil circuit connection, and electrical communication.

[0078] In this engine assembly 2, the "sensing ability" of fuel composition is moved forward and deeply integrated into the high-pressure fuel pump inlet path, enabling the entire fuel supply system to have intelligent identification and adaptive control capabilities. Because the flexible fuel sensor 14 is arranged close to the high-pressure fuel pump body 13, the detection signal can be fed back to the engine control unit (ECU) via the shortest path. The ECU adjusts key parameters such as fuel injection quantity, ignition timing, and boost pressure in real time accordingly, ensuring that the engine can achieve efficient and clean combustion under different ethanol fuel ratios, effectively improving power responsiveness, fuel economy, and reducing harmful emissions. It is particularly suitable for the sales market where ethanol fuel types and ratios are complex.

[0079] From a system integration perspective, this structure enables modular and functional upgrades to the high-pressure fuel pump system. Engine manufacturers can complete the overall assembly and testing of sensors, fuel lines, brackets, and the high-pressure fuel pump before delivery, forming a standardized and replaceable "intelligent fuel pump module." This eliminates the need for OEMs to perform additional sensor wiring, fuel line modifications, or calibration matching, significantly simplifying the engine-vehicle matching process and improving production consistency and assembly efficiency. Simultaneously, by eliminating the independent mounting brackets, long fuel lines, and protective structures required for traditional remote sensors, the overall layout is more compact, saving engine compartment space, facilitating lightweight design, reducing potential fuel leak points and vibration noise sources, and improving NVH performance.

[0080] In summary, by integrating the engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 with ethanol detection function, this engine assembly 2 not only improves the engine's adaptability to flexible fuels and control precision, but also achieves a compact structure, efficient assembly, convenient maintenance, and intelligent control.

[0081] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the connecting flange 131 serves as the mechanical interface between the high-pressure oil pump and the engine block, undertaking the core functions of positioning, support, and fixation. The bolt mounting holes on the flange are used to mate with the corresponding threaded holes on the engine body 21. By tightening the bolts, the high-pressure oil pump body 13 is firmly connected to the designated position on the engine body 21, ensuring its stability under complex operating conditions such as high-speed engine operation, vibration, shock, and thermal expansion, and avoiding abnormal oil supply or mechanical damage caused by loosening, misalignment, or seal failure.

[0082] Furthermore, a sealing structure (such as an O-ring or gasket) can be installed at the flange face to form a reliable oil circuit seal after tightening, preventing high-pressure fuel leakage and ensuring the safety of the engine compartment.

[0083] The signal output terminal of the flexible fuel sensor 14 is electrically connected to the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) module of the engine body 21, forming a complete "sensing-transmission-control" closed-loop system. As a front-end detection unit, the flexible fuel sensor 14 collects information on the ethanol content in the fuel flowing through the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11 in real time and converts it into a standard electrical signal (such as voltage, frequency, or digital signal). This signal is transmitted to the ECU module through the wiring harness, enabling the ECU to instantly grasp the actual composition of the current fuel and dynamically adjust key control parameters such as fuel injection quantity, injection timing, ignition advance angle, air-fuel ratio, and variable valve timing to ensure that the engine can achieve a high-efficiency, stable, and clean combustion process under different proportions of ethanol fuel.

[0084] By connecting sensor signals to the ECU in real time, the system can automatically identify the fuel type and switch to the corresponding control map or perform continuous interpolation adjustment, effectively avoiding problems such as power reduction, increased fuel consumption or excessive emissions caused by misjudging fuel composition, and significantly improving the engine's environmental adaptability and operational reliability.

[0085] Furthermore, the ECU can combine sensor signals with engine operating data (speed, load, temperature, etc.) to achieve long-term learning and trend judgment of fuel quality, and optimize control strategies under special operating conditions such as cold start, warm-up, and rapid acceleration. At the same time, this signal can also be integrated into the vehicle's CAN bus system for displaying the current fuel type on the instrument panel, triggering the fuel filler indicator light, supporting remote calibration upgrades, or participating in the vehicle's energy management strategy.

[0086] Furthermore, the use of standard electrical connectors and shielded wiring harnesses effectively resists interference, prevents loosening, and protects against water ingress, ensuring the stability and durability of signal transmission and meeting automotive-grade electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and environmental durability requirements. This connection method also facilitates modular production and after-sales diagnostics—engine manufacturers can complete the matching and calibration of sensors and ECUs before shipment, and during maintenance, sensor data streams can be read through the OBD interface to quickly identify the source of the fault, improving service efficiency.

[0087] In summary, by electrically connecting the signal output terminal of the flexible fuel sensor 14 to the ECU module, not only is real-time sensing and precise control of fuel composition achieved, but also a hardware foundation is laid for the intelligent and adaptive development of the engine, significantly improving the vehicle's power, economy, emissions performance, and user experience in complex fuel environments.

[0088] A third aspect of this application provides a vehicle, including: The engine high-pressure oil pump system 1 in any embodiment of the first aspect above, or the engine assembly 2 in any embodiment of the second aspect above.

[0089] By highly integrating the flexible fuel sensor 14 into the high-pressure fuel pump inlet pipe 11, the vehicle achieves real-time and accurate detection of the ethanol content in the fuel and feeds the detection signal back to the engine ECU. This enables the vehicle's power system to dynamically optimize the combustion control strategy based on the actual fuel composition, ensuring that the engine always operates in the optimal operating range under different proportions of ethanol fuel.

[0090] The application of this integrated high-pressure oil pump system or engine assembly 2 has promoted the modularization and lightweighting of the vehicle's powertrain. It eliminates the need for additional brackets for independent sensors, long oil pipes, and protective structures, simplifying the chassis and engine compartment layout, saving space, and reducing overall vehicle weight and manufacturing costs. Simultaneously, the compact oil circuit design reduces fuel pulsation, effectively suppressing NVH issues and improving ride comfort.

[0091] For any parts not mentioned in this application, existing technologies may be used or referenced.

[0092] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments.

[0093] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) characterized by, include: The high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11), the intermediate connecting oil pipe (12), and the high-pressure oil pump body (13) are connected in sequence. An elastic fuel sensor (14) is installed on the oil inlet pipe (11) of the high-pressure oil pump; The elastic fuel sensor (14) is adapted to detect the ethanol content of the fuel in the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11).

2. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) also includes a sensor mounting bracket (15), which is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body (13). The elastic fuel sensor (14) is fixed to the high-pressure oil pump body (13) by the sensor mounting bracket (15).

3. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sensor mounting bracket (15) includes a main mounting plate (151) and a bent and extended support arm (152), with an included angle of 90° between the support arm (152) and the main mounting plate (151). The elastic fuel sensor (14) is connected to the main mounting plate (151), and the support arm (152) is connected to the high-pressure oil pump body (13).

4. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The sensor mounting bracket (15) is an integral stamped structure; The surface of the sensor mounting bracket (15) is coated with an anti-corrosion and anti-rust coating; The end of the support arm (152) is formed with a protruding clamping rib (1521), which is adapted to clamp the high-pressure oil pump body (13).

5. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing of the elastic fuel sensor (14) has a through hole, through which the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11) passes.

6. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic fuel sensor (14) includes an ethanol detection element, which is inserted through the wall of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11) so that the probe area extends into the interior of the pipe.

7. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The elastic fuel sensor (14) is located in the downstream section of the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11).

8. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, One end of the middle section connecting oil pipe (12) is connected to the oil inlet pipe (11) of the high pressure oil pump, and the other end of the middle section connecting oil pipe (12) is connected to the oil inlet of the high pressure oil pump body (13). A quick-connector (16) is provided at the connection between the intermediate connecting oil pipe (12) and the high-pressure oil pump inlet pipe (11), and a quick-connector (16) is provided at the connection between the intermediate connecting oil pipe (12) and the oil inlet of the high-pressure oil pump body (13).

9. An engine assembly (2) characterised in that, include: Engine body (21), and engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8. The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) is mounted on the engine body (21); The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) includes a high-pressure oil pump body (13), and the high-pressure oil pump body (13) is provided with a connecting flange (131) that is connected to the engine body (21). The engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) includes a flexible fuel sensor (14), the signal output terminal of which is electrically connected to the ECU module of the engine body (21).

10. A vehicle characterized by comprising: include: An engine high-pressure oil pump system (1) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, or an engine assembly (2) as claimed in claim 9.

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