Control unit for adjusting the emissions of a vehicle

Abstract

Control unit (101) for a vehicle (100); wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an internal combustion engine (102) which generates exhaust gases upon combustion of a fuel; and wherein the vehicle (100) comprises a plurality of emission-relevant functions, by means of which an emission quantity in the exhaust gases is changed by an activation or deactivation of the respective emission-relevant function; wherein the plurality of emission-relevant functions comprises a plurality of diagnostic functions for checking a component of an exhaust system of the vehicle (100), wherein the control unit (101) is configured, - to determine a reference emission value indicating a maximum permissible or desired emission quantity in the exhaust gases within a planning period; - to determine several planning emission values ​​for several consecutive planning periods; the planning emission value indicates the emission quantity in the exhaust gases in the planning period; one planning period lies entirely in the future; - to prioritise the multitude of emission-related functions; the priority of a diagnostic function is increased with advancing planning periods if the diagnostic function was not activated in the previous planning periods; - to distribute the plurality of emission-relevant functions over the plurality of successive planning periods based on the respective priorities, so that the respectively determined planning emission value for the different planning periods does not exceed the reference emission value of the respective planning period; wherein the control unit (101) is configured - to distribute different emission-relevant functions over different planning periods; - to postpone one or more of the diagnostic functions to a later planning period in order to reduce the amount of emissions in a previous planning period; and - to bring forward the activation of a diagnostic function to a specific planning period if it has been determined that the planning emission value in the specific planning period is below the reference emission value; and - to activate or deactivate the individual emission-relevant functions of the plurality of emission-relevant functions within the several consecutive planning periods depending on the planning emission value.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a control unit for adjusting the emissions, in particular the pollutant emissions, of a vehicle.

[0002] A vehicle with an internal combustion engine, particularly a gasoline engine, incorporates a multitude of different functions, each of which influences the vehicle's pollutant emissions. For example, there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) functions that monitor the lambda sensor or catalytic converter components of the vehicle's exhaust system by, among other things, specifically modifying the fuel-air mixture (particularly the lambda value) of the internal combustion engine. Furthermore, there are functions designed to ensure driving comfort or reduce fuel consumption, which can lead to an increase in the vehicle's emissions, such as individual cylinder deactivation or overrun cut-off of the internal combustion engine.

[0003] The pollutant emissions of a vehicle with an internal combustion engine (especially a gasoline engine) are therefore influenced by a variety of different functions of the vehicle.

[0004] From DE 10 2015 014 150 A1 a method is known which is intended to optimize the operating behavior of motor vehicles which are at least partially powered by an internal combustion engine.

[0005] From DE 10 2016 112 610 A1 a method for operating an internal combustion engine is known, wherein the internal combustion engine has at least one control unit, at least one exhaust gas aftertreatment device and at least one exhaust gas recirculation device.

[0006] This document deals with the technical task of optimising the pollutant emissions of a vehicle, particularly with regard to limit values ​​that may be prescribed by law.

[0007] The problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claim. Advantageous embodiments are described, among other things, in the dependent claims. It should be noted that additional features of a patent claim dependent on an independent patent claim, without the features of the independent patent claim or only in combination with a subset of the features of the independent patent claim, can form a separate invention independent of the combination of all features of the independent patent claim, which can be made the subject of an independent claim, a divisional application, or a subsequent application. This applies equally to technical teachings described in the description, which can form an invention independent of the features of the independent patent claims.

[0008] According to one aspect, a control unit for a vehicle (in particular for a motor vehicle) is described. The vehicle comprises at least one internal combustion engine which generates exhaust gases when a fuel is burned. The internal combustion engine can in particular be a gasoline engine which is operated with gasoline as fuel. Alternatively, the internal combustion engine can be a diesel engine. The exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine are typically guided out of the vehicle via an exhaust system of the vehicle. In this case, the exhaust system usually comprises a catalyst (e.g. a three-way catalyst) which is designed to reduce the amount of emissions in the exhaust gases from the internal combustion engine. The emissions (which can also be referred to as pollutant emissions) include in particular nitrogen oxides (NO x), e.g., nitrogen monoxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and / or hydrocarbons (e.g., C2H6). Carbon dioxide (CO2) is not considered an emission in this document.

[0009] The vehicle may comprise a plurality of emission-relevant functions through which the quantity of emissions in the exhaust gases can be changed (in particular the quantity of emissions released into the environment). An emission-relevant function may be such that the activation or deactivation of the emission-relevant function changes the quantity of emissions in the exhaust gases. Alternatively or additionally, an emission-relevant function may be such that the adjustment of an operating parameter and / or an operating range of the emission-relevant function changes the quantity of emissions in the exhaust gases. Furthermore, an emission-relevant function may be such that the activation and / or deactivation of the emission-relevant function does not impair the actual driving operation of the vehicle during the planning period.

[0010] The multitude of emission-relevant functions can, for example, include one or more basic functions for the operation of the internal combustion engine. For example, the amount of emissions in the vehicle's exhaust gases can be changed by overrun fuel cutoff of the internal combustion engine, by purging the internal combustion engine, and / or by deactivating individual cylinders of the internal combustion engine. Other exemplary basic functions include: lean-burn operation of the internal combustion engine; overrun purging of the internal combustion engine; tank venting; and / or torque intervention on the internal combustion engine, particularly via a transmission and / or an auxiliary consumer.

[0011] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of emissions-relevant functions may include a function for shifting the load point of the combustion engine. The load point shift may be performed, in particular, by means of an electric motor of the vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of emissions-relevant functions may include one or more diagnostic functions for checking a component of the vehicle's exhaust system. In particular, a diagnostic function may be provided for checking the lambda sensor, the catalytic converter, and / or a tank ventilation system (for venting the vehicle's fuel tank).

[0012] Alternatively or additionally, the plurality of emission-relevant functions may comprise one or more emission functions for adapting an operating parameter and / or an operating range of a component of the vehicle's exhaust system. For example, a heating function for the catalytic converter and / or for the exhaust gases of the combustion engine may be provided in order to adapt the functioning of the catalytic converter (in particular after a cold start and / or when driving in the city) with regard to reducing emissions. Furthermore, the plurality of emission-relevant functions may comprise one or more protection functions for protecting a component of the vehicle's exhaust system, in particular a heating and / or release function for the lambda probe of the exhaust system.Further example emission functions are: an active particulate filter regeneration; an adjustment of the formation of the fuel-air mixture; an adjustment in an air path of the vehicle; and / or an adjustment of a trim control;.

[0013] The vehicle can therefore incorporate several different emissions-related functions that may not be absolutely necessary for the vehicle's operation, but which can potentially reduce the vehicle's fuel consumption, but which may also have a negative impact on emissions. The timing for activating an emissions-related function may be flexible (e.g., for a diagnostic function).

[0014] The control unit is configured to determine a planning emission value for a planning period. The planning period may lie at least partially (or entirely) in the future. For example, the planning period may begin at a current point in time. The planning period may have a fixed duration. For example, the planning period may be 30, 10, 5, 2, 1 minute, or less. Alternatively, the planning period may correspond to a specific (fixed) planned driving distance of the vehicle (and may have a variable duration). The planning distance may, for example, be 5, 2, 1 km, or less.

[0015] The control unit can thus forecast a planned emission value for a planning period (at least partially in the future). The planned emission value indicates the amount of emissions in the exhaust gases (leaving the vehicle) during the planning period. Thus, the amount of emissions in a planning period can be forecast.

[0016] The control unit is further configured to operate a variety of emission-relevant functions within the planning period depending on the planned emission value. This allows a vehicle's pollutant emissions to be reliably monitored and / or adjusted.

[0017] The control unit is further configured to operate the plurality of emission-relevant functions within the planning period depending on a reference emission value for the planning period. The reference emission value can indicate a maximum permissible or maximum desired emission quantity in the exhaust gases within the planning period. For example, the planned emission value can be compared with the reference emission value. The plurality of emission-relevant functions can then be operated within the planning period depending on the comparison. By taking a reference emission value into account, a reliable limitation of a vehicle's emissions can be achieved.

[0018] The control unit can be configured to deactivate or activate an emission-relevant function depending on the planned emission value. Furthermore, the control unit can be configured to adapt an operating parameter and / or an operating range of an emission-relevant function depending on the planned emission value. This can be done, in particular, such that an actual emission value of the vehicle during the planning period does not exceed the reference emission value.

[0019] The control unit can be configured to detect that the actual emission value exceeds the reference emission value within a specific period. This can then, for example, result in an entry in the vehicle's error log and / or an output to a vehicle user.

[0020] The vehicle may have a standard operating strategy, wherein the standard operating strategy describes a standard operating mode for the plurality of emissions-relevant functions. For example, the standard operating strategy for a diagnostic function may specify the one or more (typically periodic or at least repeated) points in time at which the diagnostic function is to be performed. Furthermore, the standard operating strategy for a basic function may specify the conditions (e.g., load of the combustion engine, overrun of the combustion engine, etc.) under which the basic function is to be activated.

[0021] The control unit can be configured to determine the planned emission value based on the vehicle's standard operating strategy for the planning period. It is thus possible to determine which planned emission value the vehicle would have in the planning period if the combustion engine, the vehicle's exhaust system, and / or the plurality of emission-relevant functions were operated according to the standard operating strategy.

[0022] The control unit can further be configured to operate one or more of the plurality of emission-relevant functions deviating from the standard operating strategy depending on the planned emission value. For example, it can be determined that operation according to the standard operating strategy would result in the planned emission value exceeding the reference emission value. One or more of the emission-relevant functions can then be operated deviating from the standard operating strategy, so that the planned emission value (and thus also the actual emissions of the vehicle) are reduced. For example, a standard planned diagnostic function can be postponed to a later planning period. Alternatively or additionally, a load point shift of the combustion engine can be carried out. This can automatically ensure that the vehicle's specified emission targets are met.

[0023] The emissions-relevant functions can have different priorities for the planning period. The priorities of the different emissions-relevant functions can change over time. The multitude of emissions-relevant functions can then be operated within the planning period depending on the current priorities. This can further improve the emissions-oriented operation of the vehicle.

[0024] The control unit can be configured to determine parameter values ​​of one or more operating parameters of the internal combustion engine and / or the catalytic converter of the vehicle for the planning period. The one or more operating parameters can, for example, include or display: a speed of the internal combustion engine; a torque of the internal combustion engine; a composition of a fuel-air mixture for operating the internal combustion engine; a mass flow of the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine; and / or a temperature of the internal combustion engine and / or the catalytic converter and / or the exhaust gases. The parameter values ​​can be determined using one or more vehicle sensors. The planning emission value can then be determined based on the parameter values ​​of the one or more operating parameters. By taking into account the operating parameters of the internal combustion engine and / or the catalytic converter, the planning emission value can be predicted with increased accuracy.

[0025] The control unit can be configured to determine an engine-output emission value for the combustion engine for the planning period based on an engine model of the combustion engine. The engine model can be configured to assign an engine-output emission value to the parameter values ​​of one or more operating parameters of the combustion engine. The engine model can be determined in advance during tests on the vehicle or vehicle type and stored in a memory unit of the vehicle. By taking an engine model into account, the planning emission value can be predicted with increased accuracy.

[0026] The raw emission value of the combustion engine for the planning period can initially be determined for a large number of time steps within the planning period. In particular, a large number of partial raw emission values ​​can be determined for a large number of time steps. The large number of partial raw emission values ​​can then be summarized (e.g., added together) to determine a raw emission value for the entire planning period.

[0027] The control unit can further be configured to determine the planned emission value from the raw emission value using a catalyst model for a catalyst of the vehicle. The catalyst model can be configured to assign a planned emission value to a raw emission value, taking into account the parameter values ​​of one or more operating parameters of the catalyst. The catalyst model can be determined in advance during tests on the vehicle or for the vehicle type and stored in a memory unit of the vehicle. By taking a catalyst model into account, the planned emission value can be predicted with increased accuracy.

[0028] The control unit can be configured to determine navigation data relating to a planned route of the vehicle within the planning period. The planned emission value can then also be determined or predicted based on the navigation data. This can increase the accuracy of the determined planned emission value.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, an emissions-relevant function can be operated within the planning period depending on the navigation data. For example, it can be checked whether conditions exist along the planned route that are advantageous for the operation of an emissions-relevant function (e.g., to operate the emissions-relevant function with the lowest possible emissions), or whether the planned route enables particularly favorable operating parameters and / or operating ranges for an emissions-relevant function. If this is the case, the emissions-relevant function can be operated within the planning period. Alternatively, the operation of the emissions-relevant function can be postponed to a later date if necessary.

[0030] The control unit is configured to sequentially determine planned emission values ​​for a sequence of consecutive planning periods. The plurality of emission-relevant functions are then operated in the respective planning periods depending on the respectively determined planning emission values. The priorities of the emission-relevant functions can be at least partially different for different planning periods. For example, the priority of a diagnostic function can increase with advancing planning periods if the diagnostic function was not activated in the previous planning periods. This ensures reliable operation of the vehicle's exhaust system and compliance with emission limits over a longer period.

[0031] According to a further aspect, a (further) control unit for a vehicle is described. The above-mentioned aspects relating to a control unit are also applicable to the (further) control unit. Furthermore, the aspects of the (further) control unit are applicable to the above-mentioned control unit.

[0032] As already explained above, the vehicle comprises an internal combustion engine that generates exhaust gases when a fuel is burned. Furthermore, the vehicle comprises at least one emissions-relevant function, the operation of which increases the amount of emissions in the exhaust gases. The emissions-relevant function can, in particular, be a basic function, a load point shifting function, and / or an emissions function. In particular, the emissions-relevant function cannot be a diagnostic function.

[0033] An emissions-relevant function may have an optimal operating range with respect to the amount of emissions caused by the operation of the emissions-relevant function. In particular, the emissions-relevant function may have an operating range with specific parameter values ​​or parameter value ranges for one or more operating parameters in which the emissions-relevant function causes particularly low emissions in the exhaust gases.

[0034] The control unit can be configured to determine whether the emissions-relevant function can be operated within the optimal operating range during a planning period. For this purpose, sensor data from one or more vehicle sensors can be taken into account. For example, a state of the vehicle, in particular of the combustion engine and / or the exhaust system, can be determined based on the sensor data. It can then be determined whether the state of the vehicle enables operation of the emissions-relevant function within the optimal operating range.

[0035] The control unit can further be configured to operate the emission-relevant function within the planning period if it has been determined that the emission-relevant function can be operated within the optimal operating range during the planning period. Alternatively, operation of the emission-relevant function within the planning period can be prevented.

[0036] Thus, depending on the vehicle's condition, for example, one or more emission-relevant functions can be prioritized, activated, and / or restricted. In particular, the operation of an emission-relevant function can be limited to one or more planning periods during which operation of the emission-relevant function is possible within a defined optimal operating range. This can reduce a vehicle's emissions.

[0037] For example, the activation of an emissions-relevant function (e.g., overrun cutoff or overrun boost) can be requested at a specific time according to a standard operating strategy of the vehicle. The control unit can then check whether the requested emissions-relevant function can be operated within the optimal operating range defined for the function in the immediately following planning period. Operation of the emissions-relevant function can then be prevented (possibly contrary to the standard operating strategy) if it is determined that the emissions-relevant function cannot be operated within the optimal operating range. Otherwise, the requested operation of the emissions-relevant function can be permitted.

[0038] As already explained above, the restriction of the operation of an emission-relevant function to one or more periods in which an optimal operating range is possible can be combined with the operation of an emission-relevant function depending on a planning emission value. For example, the one or more emission-relevant functions considered for a planning period to determine the planning emission value can be prioritized depending on the operating ranges in which the individual emission-relevant functions can be operated during the planning period. This allows a vehicle's emissions to be reduced particularly effectively.

[0039] According to a further aspect, methods corresponding to the control units are described.

[0040] According to a further aspect, a vehicle (in particular a road vehicle, e.g. a passenger car, a truck or a motorcycle) is described which comprises one of the control units described in this document.

[0041] According to another aspect, a software (SW) program is described. The SW program can be configured to be executed on a processor and thereby to perform one of the methods described in this document.

[0042] According to a further aspect, a storage medium is described. The storage medium can comprise a software program configured to be executed on a processor and thereby to perform one of the methods described in this document.

[0043] It should be noted that the methods, devices, and systems described in this document can be used both alone and in combination with other methods, devices, and systems described in this document. Furthermore, any aspects of the methods, devices, and systems described in this document can be combined in a variety of ways. In particular, the features of the claims can be combined in a variety of ways.

[0044] The invention will be described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments. Fig. 1 exemplary emission-relevant components of a vehicle; and Fig. 2 a flowchart of an exemplary method for controlling a plurality of emission-relevant functions in a vehicle.

[0045] As stated at the beginning, this document deals with the optimization of a vehicle’s pollutant emissions. In this context, Fig. 1 shows exemplary emission-relevant components of a vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 comprises an internal combustion engine 102 (in particular a gasoline engine) configured to generate mechanical energy for driving the vehicle 100 by burning a fuel (in particular gasoline). The combustion process produces exhaust gases containing pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (in particular nitrogen monoxide), hydrocarbons, and / or carbon monoxide. The amount of pollutants produced during the combustion process can depend on different operating modes or functions of the internal combustion engine 102. Exemplary basic functions of the internal combustion engine 102 are: • Overrun cut-off of the internal combustion engine 102, ie switching off the fuel supply when the internal combustion engine 102 is in overrun mode; • Scaveging the internal combustion engine 102 so that the intake valves and the exhaust valves of the internal combustion engine 102 are at least temporarily open simultaneously in order to supply an increased amount of fresh air into the cylinders of the internal combustion engine 102; and / or • Single cylinder deactivation of one or more cylinders of the internal combustion engine 102 in order to reduce the fuel consumption of the vehicle 100 at reduced load.

[0046] Activating one or more of the aforementioned basic functions of the internal combustion engine 102 can be advantageous, for example, for reducing fuel consumption. On the other hand, activating such a function may potentially (at least temporarily) increase the amount of pollutants emitted.

[0047] The vehicle 100 can include an electric machine 103 that is configured to drive the vehicle 100 at least temporarily. The electrical energy required to operate the electric machine 103 can be stored in an electrical energy storage device (not shown). The electric machine 103 can be used, on the one hand, to reduce the load on the internal combustion engine 102 by having the electric machine 103 provide at least part of the drive power of the vehicle 100. On the other hand, the electric machine 103 can be used to increase the load on the internal combustion engine 102 by having the electric machine 103 act as a generator driven by the internal combustion engine 102. The use of the electric machine 103 can thus be used to actively shift the load point of the internal combustion engine 102, e.g., to operate the internal combustion engine 102 at a load point with the highest possible efficiency.The function of load point shifting typically has an influence on the amount of pollutants emitted.

[0048] The vehicle 100, in particular the exhaust system of the vehicle 100, typically includes a catalytic converter 104 configured to reduce the amount of pollutants released into the environment from the exhaust system of the vehicle 100. In particular, in a gasoline engine, a regulated three-way catalytic converter can convert carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water, and nitrogen monoxide and carbon monoxide into nitrogen and carbon dioxide. In a diesel engine, other catalytic converter configurations can be used to reduce the amount of pollutants.

[0049] The effectiveness of a catalytic converter 104 typically depends substantially on the composition of the fuel-air mixture in the internal combustion engine 102, i.e., on the lambda value. The vehicle 100 therefore typically includes a lambda probe 105 configured to compare the residual oxygen content in the exhaust gas with the oxygen content of the current atmospheric air. The lambda probe can be used for lambda control to adjust the composition of the fuel-air mixture to a specific target value (e.g., λ=1).

[0050] One or more diagnostic functions can be provided to check the catalytic converter 104 and / or the lambda sensor 105. For example, as part of a diagnostic function, the composition of the fuel-air mixture can be temporarily changed (e.g., the fuel proportion can be temporarily increased or reduced). Activating a diagnostic function to check the catalytic converter 104 and / or the lambda sensor 105 can thus lead to a change in the amount of pollutant emissions (at least for the diagnostic period).

[0051] Another example of a diagnostic function that can influence pollutant emissions is the inspection of a tank vent valve through which fuel vapors from the fuel tank of the vehicle 100 (typically via the intake fresh air) can be fed into the internal combustion engine 102.

[0052] The effectiveness of a catalytic converter 104 typically depends on the temperature of the exhaust gases to be processed. In particular, after a cold start or during city driving, the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine 102 may be relatively low for a relatively long period of time. Active heating of the catalytic converter 104 and / or the exhaust gases before entering the catalytic converter 104 can therefore be provided as an emission-influencing function.

[0053] A vehicle 100 can thus provide a variety of emission-influencing or emission-relevant functions. Activating these functions may not be absolutely necessary for the actual driving operation of the vehicle 100. For example, the combustion engine 102 can also be operated without activating the basic functions such as overrun fuel cut-off, overflush and / or individual cylinder deactivation, without this (possibly significantly or substantially) impairing the actual driving operation of the vehicle 100. This also applies to the aforementioned hybrid functions, such as load point shifting, which arise in a vehicle 100 with a hybrid drive. The aforementioned diagnostic functions, such asAlthough functions for checking the catalytic converter 104, the lambda sensor 105, or the tank ventilation system should typically be performed at specific intervals, they can be postponed if necessary without affecting the actual driving operation of the vehicle 100. Furthermore, emission functions for influencing pollutant emissions, such as the activation of a catalytic converter heater, can be activated or deactivated without affecting the actual driving operation of the vehicle 100. In addition, one or more component protection functions can be provided that can be activated to protect (e.g., for thermal management) individual components of the exhaust system of the vehicle 100 (e.g., to enable the lambda sensor 105 for operation).

[0054] The vehicle 100 may include a control unit 101 configured to determine a planned emission value for a planning period, wherein the planned emission value indicates the amount of pollutant emissions planned for the planning period. The planning period may, for example, comprise 30, 10, 5, 1 minute, or less. The planning period may lie in the (immediate) future.

[0055] To determine the planned emission value, the raw emissions of the internal combustion engine 102 can be determined. For this purpose, an engine model of the internal combustion engine 102 can be used, which is configured to calculate the raw emissions of the internal combustion engine 102 as a function of one or more operating parameters of the internal combustion engine 102. Example operating parameters are: a speed of the internal combustion engine 102, a load of the internal combustion engine 102, a temperature of the internal combustion engine 102, a composition of the fuel-air mixture, etc. The operating parameters can be determined using one or more vehicle sensors 106. Furthermore, data from one or more environmental sensors 107 can be taken into account, where the data from the one or more environmental sensors 107 indicate information relating to the environment of the vehicle 100 (e.g., the outside temperature, the gradient of a road, etc.). In addition,Navigation data relating to an upcoming route of the vehicle 100 are taken into account when determining the operating parameters or when determining the raw emissions of the combustion engine 102.

[0056] Furthermore, a catalyst model can be used to determine the planned emission value based on the raw emissions of the internal combustion engine 102. Operating parameters of the catalyst 104 can be detected and taken into account by one or more vehicle sensors 106 (such as the exhaust gas temperature, the catalyst temperature, the exhaust gas mass flow, the lambda value, etc.). The catalyst model can, for example, include characteristic data that indicate which proportion of the raw emissions can be converted by the catalyst 104. The converted proportion depends on the operating parameters of the catalyst 104.

[0057] When determining the planned emission value, the activation of one or more emission-relevant functions of the vehicle 100 can also be taken into account. In particular, it can be determined which one or more emission-relevant functions are activated or deactivated when implementing a standard operating strategy of the vehicle 100 during the planning period. The influence of the active or inactive emission-relevant functions on pollutant emissions can then be taken into account when determining the planned emission value for the planning period.

[0058] The resulting planning emission value can then be compared with a reference emission value. The reference emission value can be specified, for example, by law. In particular, it can be determined whether the planning emission value determined for the planning period exceeds the reference emission value.

[0059] The plurality of emission-relevant functions can then be controlled in the planning period depending on the above-mentioned comparison, i.e. in particular partially activated or deactivated. In particular, it can be determined which one or more emission-relevant functions are activated and which are deactivated in the planning period in order to ensure that the actual emission value of the vehicle 100 does not exceed the reference emission value in the planning period. For example, if necessary, one or more emission-relevant functions of the vehicle 100 can be deactivated in the planning period (contrary to the standard operating strategy of the vehicle 100) in order to reduce the pollutant emissions of the vehicle 100 in the planning period. Furthermore, if necessaryOne or more emission-relevant diagnostic functions can be postponed to a later planning period in order to reduce the pollutant emissions of the vehicle 100 in the current planning period. Furthermore, the operating point of the internal combustion engine 102 can be optimized (e.g., by shifting the load point) in order to reduce the pollutant emissions of the vehicle 100 in the current planning period. On the other hand, the activation of an emission-relevant function, in particular a diagnostic function, can be brought forward (e.g., if it has been determined that the planned emission value is below the reference emission value). Thus, an active (re)distribution of the emissions of a vehicle 100 across different planning periods can take place (e.g., to ensure that the emissions do not exceed the reference emission value in any of the planning periods).

[0060] Control unit 101 thus plans the pollutant emissions of vehicle 100 for a sequence of consecutive planning periods. The various emission-relevant functions of vehicle 100 can be prioritized and, if necessary, distributed across different planning periods. The goal of the planning may be to ensure that the actual pollutant emissions do not exceed the reference emission value in any of the planning periods.

[0061] The control unit 101 can thus be configured to coordinate and / or prioritize all emission-relevant functions of the vehicle 100 at a higher level. Driving functions such as overrun cutoff can also be taken into account. Current and expected future emissions can be incorporated into the coordination of the functions. For this purpose, an emissions predictor of the control unit 101 evaluates operating parameters of the vehicle 100, and in particular of the combustion engine 102, and calculates an emissions profile that extends into the future within a specific time window (e.g., the planning period). Navigation data can also be included to determine the emissions profile.

[0062] Depending on the development of the calculated emissions, the emissions predictor can prevent the execution of one or more emissions-relevant functions. If necessary, the respective priority of an emissions-relevant function can be taken into account.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, in the case of hybrid or mild hybrid systems (e.g. with 12V / 48V generators), the operating point of the combustion engine 102 can be adjusted or optimized with regard to the development of emissions by means of the electric machine 103.

[0064] This makes it possible to perform an emissions-relevant function at an operating point that is optimal for that function. Navigation data, for example, can be taken into account to proactively adjust the operating point of an emissions-relevant function in order to reduce the pollutant emissions caused by the function.

[0065] Fig.Figure 2 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method 200 for controlling a plurality of emissions-related functions in a vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 includes an internal combustion engine 102 that generates exhaust gases when a fuel is burned. The vehicle 100 also includes a plurality of emissions-related functions that can change the amount of emissions in the exhaust gases.

[0066] The method 200 includes determining 201 a planned emission value for a planning period, wherein the planned emission value indicates the amount of emissions in the exhaust gases during the planning period (in particular, the amount of emissions released from the vehicle 100 into the environment). Furthermore, the method 200 includes operating 202 the plurality of emission-relevant functions within the planning period as a function of the planned emission value.

[0067] In particular, the multitude of emission-relevant functions can be controlled depending on the planned emission value. For example, planning emission values ​​can be determined for a sequence of planning periods. The multitude of emission-relevant functions can be operated in the sequence of planning periods in such a way that, along the sequence of planning periods, the planned emission values ​​are controlled to a specific reference emission value (e.g., so that the reference emission value is not exceeded but may be undershot).

[0068] Thus, a control unit 101 and a method 200 for a vehicle 100 are described, by which available information relating to the internal combustion engine 102, the vehicle 100, and / or a navigation system are evaluated. The control unit 101 can then monitor and regulate the development of emissions based, among other things, on the priorities of various emission-relevant functions. This reliably ensures compliance with emission limits during driving. Furthermore, development effort can be reduced because the closed control loop ensures automatic compliance with the reference emission values, thus eliminating the need for dedicated optimization of a standard operating strategy of the vehicle 100 for specific driving cycles.

[0069] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. In particular, it should be noted that the description and figures are intended only to illustrate the principle of the proposed methods, devices, and systems.

Claims

[1] Control unit (101) for a vehicle (100); wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an internal combustion engine (102) which generates exhaust gases upon combustion of a fuel; and wherein the vehicle (100) comprises a plurality of emission-relevant functions, by means of which an emission quantity in the exhaust gases is changed by an activation or deactivation of the respective emission-relevant function; wherein the plurality of emission-relevant functions comprises a plurality of diagnostic functions for checking a component of an exhaust system of the vehicle (100), wherein the control unit (101) is configured, - to determine a reference emission value indicating a maximum permissible or desired emission quantity in the exhaust gases within a planning period; - to determine several planning emission values ​​for several consecutive planning periods; the planning emission value indicates the emission quantity in the exhaust gases in the planning period; one planning period lies entirely in the future; - to prioritise the multitude of emission-related functions; the priority of a diagnostic function is increased with advancing planning periods if the diagnostic function was not activated in the previous planning periods; - to distribute the plurality of emission-relevant functions over the plurality of successive planning periods based on the respective priorities, so that the respectively determined planning emission value for the different planning periods does not exceed the reference emission value of the respective planning period; wherein the control unit (101) is configured - to distribute different emission-relevant functions over different planning periods; - to postpone one or more of the diagnostic functions to a later planning period in order to reduce the amount of emissions in a previous planning period; and - to bring forward the activation of a diagnostic function to a specific planning period if it has been determined that the planning emission value in the specific planning period is below the reference emission value; and - to activate or deactivate the individual emission-relevant functions of the plurality of emission-relevant functions within the several consecutive planning periods depending on the planning emission value. [2] Control unit (101) according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (101) is arranged - to determine a raw emission value of the internal combustion engine (102) for the planning period based on an engine model of the internal combustion engine (102); wherein the raw emission value indicates the emission quantity in the exhaust gases at the outlet of the internal combustion engine (102); and - using a catalyst model for a catalyst (104) of the vehicle (100), to determine the planning emission value from the raw emission value. [3] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (101) is arranged - to determine parameter values ​​of one or more operating parameters of the internal combustion engine (102) and / or a catalyst (104) of the vehicle (100) for the planning period; and - to determine the planning emission value on the basis of the parameter values ​​of one or more operating parameters; the one or more operating parameters include in particular, - a speed of the internal combustion engine (102); - a torque of the internal combustion engine (102); - a composition of a fuel-air mixture for operating the internal combustion engine (102); - a mass flow of the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine (102); and / or - a temperature of the internal combustion engine (102) and / or the catalyst (104) and / or the exhaust gases. [4] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (101) is arranged - to determine the planning emission value based on a standard operating strategy of the vehicle (100) for the planning period; wherein the standard operating strategy describes a standard operating mode of the plurality of emission-relevant functions; and - to operate one or more of the numerous emission-relevant functions depending on the planned emission value in a manner deviating from the standard operating strategy. [5] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein - at least one of the multitude of emission-relevant functions has at least partially different priorities for different planning periods. [6] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (101) is arranged - to determine navigation data relating to a planned route of the vehicle (100) in the planning period; and - to determine the planning emission value depending on the navigation data; and / or - to operate an emission-relevant function within the planning period depending on the navigation data. [7] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of emission-relevant functions comprises - a tank vent; - a heating function for the catalyst (104) and / or for the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine (102); - active particulate filter regeneration; and / or - a heating and / or release function for the lambda probe (105). [8] Control unit (101) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual emission-relevant functions of the plurality of emission-relevant functions are each designed such that neither the activation nor the deactivation of the respective emission-relevant function in a planning period impairs the actual driving operation of the vehicle (100) in the planning period. [9] Method (200) for controlling a plurality of emission-relevant functions in a vehicle (100); wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an internal combustion engine (102) which generates exhaust gases upon combustion of a fuel; and wherein the plurality of emission-relevant functions change an emission quantity in the exhaust gases by activating or deactivating the respective emission-relevant function; wherein the plurality of emission-relevant functions comprises a plurality of diagnostic functions for checking a component of an exhaust system of the vehicle (100), wherein the method (200) comprises, - Determining a reference emission value indicating a maximum permissible or desired emission quantity in the exhaust gases within a planning period; - determining (201) a plurality of planning emission values ​​for a plurality of consecutive planning periods; wherein the planning emission value indicates the emission quantity in the exhaust gases in the planning period; wherein a planning period lies entirely in the future; - Prioritizing the plurality of emission-related functions; whereby the priority of a diagnostic function is increased with advancing planning periods if the diagnostic function was not activated in the previous planning periods; - Distributing the plurality of emission-relevant functions over the plurality of successive planning periods based on the respective priorities, so that the respectively determined planning emission value for the different planning periods does not exceed the reference emission value of the respective planning period; whereby - different emission-relevant functions are distributed over different planning periods; - one or more of the diagnostic functions are postponed to a later planning period in order to reduce the amount of emissions in a previous planning period; and - bringing forward the activation of a diagnostic function to a specific planning period if it has been determined that the planning emission value in the specific planning period is below the reference emission value; and - activating or deactivating (202) the individual emission-relevant functions of the plurality of emission-relevant functions within the plurality of consecutive planning periods depending on the planning emission value.

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