Method for controlling the starting of an engine

By having the engine control module (ECM) disengage the starter motor and stop fuel delivery when the clutch pedal is released during engine cranking, the method addresses the issue of engine speed variations and associated problems, ensuring a safe and reliable engine start.

DE102014106280B4Active Publication Date: 2025-06-26GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE102014106280
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2013-05-14
Filing Date
2014-05-06
Publication Date
2025-06-26
Estimated Expiration
2034-05-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Releasing the clutch pedal during engine cranking causes variations in engine speed, leading to vibrations, potential engine and transmission damage, and improper clutch adjustment, which can prevent full decoupling of the transmission from the engine.

Method used

The engine control module (ECM) selectively disengages the starter motor, shuts off current flow, and stops fuel delivery when the clutch pedal is released during engine cranking, and displays a message indicating that the engine start has been aborted.

Benefits of technology

This solution prevents engine speed variations, reduces vibrations, and protects engine and transmission components by aborting the engine start when the clutch pedal is released, ensuring proper clutch adjustment and reliable engine operation.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A vehicle engine control method, the method comprising: when a clutch pedal is depressed and a user activates an ignition system by operating an ignition key or switch: a starter motor (162) is engaged with a prime mover (102); and current is applied to the starter motor; an engine mode is selectively set to a run mode when the engine speed is greater than a predetermined speed that is either greater than or equal to another predetermined speed for a predetermined period of time; the engine mode is set to a cranking mode when the engine speed is less than the predetermined speed; and selectively generating a cancel signal (272) only when the clutch pedal is released after actuation of the ignition key or switch, one engine speed is less than the other predetermined speed, the starter motor (162) is engaged with the engine (102), and the engine mode is set to the cranking mode; and when the abort signal (272) is generated: the starter motor (162) is disengaged; and a current flow to the starter motor (162) is switched off.
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    DE102008013410A1

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    DE102008013411A1

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    DE102008014511A1

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