VEHICLE AND ENGINE OFF TIMER DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES THEREOF

Abstract

Vehicle (1), comprising: an engine (10), an engine-off timer (70) configured to detect an engine-off time in which the engine (10) is switched off, an air temperature sensor (30) configured to detect a temperature of air drawn into the engine (10), a water temperature sensor (20) configured to detect a temperature of water in the engine (10), and a control unit (100) configured to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70), the temperature of the air sucked into the engine (10) detected by the air temperature sensor (30), and the temperature of the water in the engine (10) detected by the water temperature sensor (20).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle (eg motor vehicle) and a method for diagnosing (eg detecting, eg checking) whether an (eg internal combustion) engine-off timer (eg engine-off timer, eg an engine-off timer device) provided in the vehicle has a fault. Description of related technology

[0002] The start button of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) is generally configured to receive a command from the driver to perform power switching (e.g., on / off switching), and an electronic control unit (ECU) connected to the start button can generate power switching instructions by pressing the start button in the following sequence: OFF->ACC->IG->OFF or OFF->ACC->IG->START. In this context, "OFF" refers to switching the vehicle to an off mode or sleep mode, "ACC" refers to an auxiliary power state in which the engine is not started but the battery power is supplied to electronic devices of the vehicle, "IG" refers to an ignition power state, and "START" refers to a power-on state. These four states can be divided into a battery power on / off state (OFF and ACC) and an engine on / off state (e.g.,Combustion engine on / off state) (IG and START).

[0003] The vehicle may consider a period in which the engine is off to check (or recheck) an evaporator, a water temperature sensor, and an air temperature sensor. A device used to measure the period in which the engine is off is called an engine-off timer. The engine-off timer operates even in the "OFF" state, in which battery power is not supplied to the vehicle. Consequently, there is a period during which fault diagnosis by an electronic control device is impossible. Therefore, there is a need for a diagnostic method to determine engine-off timer measurements taken during the OFF period, during which fault diagnosis is impossible.

[0004] US 2007 / 0 093 952 A1 discloses an arrangement for determining an initial internal battery temperature.

[0005] EP 1 950 398 A2 discloses an electronic control device. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention has for its object to provide a vehicle (e.g. motor vehicle) and an (e.g. internal combustion) engine-off timer diagnostic method (e.g. engine-off timer diagnostic method, e.g. engine-off timer device diagnostic method) thereof, which are capable of diagnosing (e.g. detecting, e.g. checking) whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g. as intended) during a period in which no power is applied (e.g. no electric power supply is switched on), based on (respective) results from a water temperature sensor and an air temperature sensor of the vehicle.

[0007] The problem is solved by the features of the independent patent claims. Advantageous developments of the invention are described in the subclaims.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) comprises: an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine), an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) configured to detect an engine-off time (e.g., internal combustion engine-off time) in which the engine is turned off, an air temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of air sucked into the engine, a water temperature sensor configured to detect a temperature of water (e.g., cooling water) in the engine, and a control unit configured to determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g.,works) based on the engine off time detected by the engine off timer, the temperature of the air drawn into the engine detected by the air temperature sensor, and the temperature of the water in the engine detected by the water temperature sensor.

[0009] The control unit may compare a first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-off state (e.g., ignition key-off state) after the engine is running, and a second temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state) after the key-off state, with a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature, and determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer when the first and second temperatures are (respectively) lower than the predetermined temperature.

[0010] The control unit may compare a first temperature detected by the air temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-off state (e.g., ignition key-off state) after the engine is running, and a second temperature detected by the air temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state) after the key-off state, with a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature, and determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer when the first and second temperatures are (respectively) lower than the predetermined temperature.

[0011] The control unit can determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) by comparing the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer with a predetermined (e.g., preset) time.

[0012] The control unit may determine whether a cooling start condition of the engine is / is met based on a temperature detected by the water temperature sensor and a temperature detected by the air temperature sensor, each detected at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state), and determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) when the cooling start condition is / is met.

[0013] The control unit may determine whether a warm-up condition is met based on the first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at the time when the vehicle is in the key-off state after the engine is running, and determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the warm-up condition is met.

[0014] The control unit cannot make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the first and second temperatures detected by the water temperature sensor each exceed (e.g., are higher than) the predetermined temperature.

[0015] The control unit cannot make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the first and second temperatures detected by the air temperature sensor (each) exceed (e.g., are higher than) the predetermined temperature.

[0016] The vehicle may further include an output (e.g., output unit) configured to output a result as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning).

[0017] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer diagnostic method (e.g., engine-off timer diagnostic method, e.g., engine-off timer device diagnostic method) of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) comprises: detecting an engine-off time in which an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine) of the vehicle is turned off using an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device), determining a temperature of air sucked into the engine, which is detected using an air temperature sensor, determining a temperature of water (e.g., cooling water) of the engine, which is detected using a water temperature sensor, and determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g.,works) based on the engine off time detected by the engine off timer, the temperature of the air drawn into the engine detected by the air temperature sensor, and the temperature of the water in the engine detected by the water temperature sensor.

[0018] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) may include: comparing, respectively, a first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time instant) when the vehicle is in a key-off state (e.g., ignition key-off state) after the engine is running, and a second temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time instant) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state) after the key-off state, with a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature, and determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer when the first and second temperatures are (respectively) lower than the predetermined temperature.

[0019] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) may include: comparing, respectively, a first temperature detected by the air temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time instant) when the vehicle is in a key-off state (e.g., ignition key-off state) after the engine is running, and a second temperature detected by the air temperature sensor at a time (e.g., a time instant) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state) after the key-off state, with a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature, and determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer when the first and second temperatures are (respectively) lower than the predetermined temperature.

[0020] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) may comprise: Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) by comparing the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer with a predetermined (e.g., preset) time.

[0021] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) may include: determining whether a cooling start condition of the engine is / is met based on a temperature detected by the water temperature sensor and a temperature detected by the air temperature sensor, each detected at a time (e.g., a time point) when the vehicle is in a key-on state (e.g., ignition key-on state), and determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) when the cooling start condition is / is met.

[0022] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) may include determining whether a warm-up condition is met based on the first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor at the time when the vehicle is in the key-off state after the engine is running, and determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the warm-up condition is met.

[0023] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) may include: not performing a determination as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) when the first and second temperatures detected by the water temperature sensor (each) exceed (e.g., are higher than) the predetermined temperature.

[0024] Determining whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) may include: not performing a determination as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) if the first and second temperatures detected by the air temperature sensor each exceed the predetermined temperature.

[0025] The method may further comprise outputting a result as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art by describing in detail exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings. Fig. 1 is an exterior view of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 2 is an interior view of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) viewed from a rear seat according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 3 is a control block diagram of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a conventional procedure of determining whether an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is operating normally (e.g., as intended). Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determining whether an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., operating, e.g., functioning), according to embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 6 is a graph for classifying failures of an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device). Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determining a cooling start cycle of an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine). Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determining a warm-up cycle of an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine). Fig. 9 to 11 are a flowchart (or flowchart parts divided among the figures) illustrating a detailed procedure of determining whether an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., operating, e.g., functioning).

[0027] It should be understood that the above drawings are not necessarily to scale and represent a somewhat simplified representation of various preferred features in order to illustrate the basic principles of the invention. The specific design features of the present invention, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes, will be determined in part by the particular intended application and use environment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the described embodiments may be modified in numerous different ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Furthermore, like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the description.

[0029] Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description. Not all elements of embodiments of the present invention are described, and description of what is commonly known in the art or of what overlaps between embodiments is omitted. Terms used throughout the description, such as "~part," "~module," "~element," "~block," etc., may be implemented in software and / or hardware, and a plurality of "~parts," "~modules," "~elements," or "~blocks" may be implemented in a single element, or a single "~part," "~module," "~element," or "~block" may comprise a plurality of elements.

[0030] It will be further understood that the term "connect" or variations thereof refers to both a direct and an indirect connection, and the indirect connection may include a connection via a wireless communications network.

[0031] The term “comprise (or comprising)” or “comprise (or having)” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unstated elements or process steps unless otherwise stated.

[0032] Throughout the description, when an element is described as being "on" another element, this means not only that the element is adjacent to the other element, but also that a third element may be present between the two elements.

[0033] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections are not intended to be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, or section from another region, layer, or section.

[0034] It should be understood that the singular forms “ein”, “eine”, “eines” and “der”, “die”, “das” also include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0035] Reference numerals used for method steps are used for explanation purposes only and not to restrict the sequence of steps. Therefore, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the sequence presented may be performed differently.

[0036] It is to be understood that the terms "vehicle" or "vehicle-..." or other similar term used herein includes motor vehicles in general, such as passenger vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs), buses, trucks, numerous commercial vehicles, and e.g., watercraft, including a variety of boats and ships, as well as e.g., aircraft and the like, and further includes hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., fuels produced from resources other than petroleum). A hybrid vehicle, as referred to herein, is a vehicle that has two or more power sources, e.g., vehicles that are powered by both gasoline and electricity.

[0037] It should additionally be understood that one or more of the methods below, or aspects thereof, may be performed by at least one control device / control unit. The term "control device / control unit" may refer to a hardware device comprising a storage device / memory and a processor. The storage device / memory is configured to store program instructions, and the processor is specifically programmed to execute the program instructions to perform one or more methods described further below. The control unit may control operation of units, modules, parts, or the like as described herein.Furthermore, it is to be understood that the methods below may be carried out by means of a device comprising the control device / control unit in conjunction with one or more other components, as will also be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0038] Furthermore, the control device / control unit of the present disclosure may be embodied as non-transitory, computer-readable means / data on a computer-readable medium, comprising executable program instructions executed by a processor, the control device / control unit, and the like. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, ROMs, RAMs, compact discs (CD-ROMs), magnetic tapes, floppy disks, storage drives, smart cards, and optical storage devices. The computer-readable recording medium may also be distributed in network-coupled computer systems such that the computer-readable means / data are stored and executed in a distributed manner, e.g., through a telematics server or a CAN bus.

[0039] The principle and embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Fig. 1 is an exterior view of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) according to embodiments of the present invention, and Fig. 2 is an interior view of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) viewed from a rear seat according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] The vehicle 1 comprises a body (e.g., a body) with an outer and an inner part, and remaining parts, e.g., a chassis, on which mechanical devices required for driving (e.g., required for propulsion) are installed.

[0042] Referring to Fig. 1, the outer part 110 of the body has a front bumper 111, a hood 112, a roof panel 113, a rear bumper 114, a trunk 115, front, rear, left and / or right doors 116 (e.g., a front left, a front right, a rear left and a rear right door), etc., and further has a drive system (hereinafter referred to as an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine)) for driving the vehicle 1, ie, the vehicle wheels.

[0043] The outer part 110 further includes filler material and / or filler parts 117 located between the front bumper 111, the hood 112, the roof panel 113, the rear bumper 114, the trunk 115 and the front, rear, left and / or right doors 116 (e.g., the front left, front right, rear left and rear right doors).

[0044] Furthermore, the outer part 110 includes: side window glasses each installed in the front, rear, left and / or right doors 116 (e.g., the front left, front right, rear left and rear right doors), quarter window glasses located between the filler parts 117 and cannot be opened, a rear window glass installed at the rear (e.g., at / on a rear side), and a windshield glass installed at the front (e.g., at / on a front side).

[0045] The outer part of the vehicle body may further include side mirrors 118 that help the driver see areas behind the vehicle 1.

[0046] The chassis of the vehicle 1 includes: a power generating system, a power transmitting system, a chassis, a steering system, a braking system, a suspension system, a transmission system, a fuel system, front, rear, left and / or right wheels (e.g., a front left, a front right, a rear left and a rear right wheel), etc. The vehicle 1 may further include various safety systems for driver and passenger safety.

[0047] The safety systems may include: an airbag control system for driver and passenger safety in the event of (vehicle) accidents, and a vehicle dynamics control system or an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system for stabilizing the position of the vehicle 1 while the vehicle 1 is accelerating or cornering.

[0048] In addition, the vehicle 1 may include: a proximity sensor for detecting an obstacle or other vehicles behind or to the side of the vehicle 1, a rain sensor for detecting precipitation and whether it is raining, etc.

[0049] It should be understood that the exterior of the vehicle 1, as shown in Fig. 1 and described above is provided for demonstration purposes only and does not limit the scope of the present invention and / or the present disclosure.

[0050] Referring to Fig. 2, the inner part 120 of the body comprises: seats 121, a dashboard 122, an instrument display (or a group (of e.g., instrument displays)) 123 placed on / on the dashboard 122 and containing measuring instruments and display devices such as a water temperature indicator, a fuel gauge, a turn signal indicator, a headlight indicator, a hazard light indicator, a seat belt warning light, an odometer, a gear shift position indicator, a door open warning light, a fuel tank warning light (e.g., a low fuel level warning light), a low oil pressure warning light, etc., a steering wheel 124 for steering the vehicle 1, and a center fascia 125 having an audio system and air conditioning (AC) vents arranged therein.

[0051] The seats 121 include a driver's seat 121a, a passenger seat 121b, and rear seats arranged in the rear part of the interior of the vehicle 1.

[0052] The group (of e.g. instrument displays) 123 may be provided e.g. as an interior display (e.g. an interior display) to act as an output 80 (e.g. output unit) (see Fig. 3) to serve (e.g., function) to output a water temperature detected by a water temperature sensor of the engine. Group 123 can also be used as a device for outputting a determination result as to whether an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is normal (e.g., as intended) (e.g., operating, e.g., functioning).

[0053] The center instrument panel 125 has a control panel located on (eg, on, eg, in) the instrument panel 122 between the driver's seat 121a and the passenger's seat 121b for controlling the audio system, the AC and the heater.

[0054] Air vents, a cigarette lighter, a navigation system (AVN), etc. can be installed in the center dashboard 125.

[0055] The center instrument panel 125 may serve as another output 80 (e.g., output unit) for receiving information by touching and displaying various information, and may perform a function of the control panel for controlling the audio system, AC, and heater, and a function of the AVN as a user interface (e.g., a user interface).

[0056] A display (eg, a gauge) installed on (eg, on, eg, in) the center instrument panel 125 may also be used as a device for outputting a determination result as to whether an (eg, internal combustion) engine-off timer (eg, engine-off timer, eg, an engine-off timer device) is normal (eg, as intended) (eg, is operating, eg, is working, eg, is functioning).

[0057] The vehicle 1 may further include a start button 50 for inputting a start command to operate the engine 10.

[0058] When the start command is inputted into (e.g., via) the start button 50, ie, the start button 50 is in the key-on state, the starter motor (not shown) of the vehicle 1 starts and drives the engine 10, which is the power generator.

[0059] The vehicle 1 further comprises a battery (not shown) which is electrically connected to, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU) for supplying (electrical) power (for example, current supply).

[0060] When the start button 50 is in the key-on state, the battery supplies (electrical) power to the starter motor and the ignition device until the ignition is completed, and when the start button 50 is in the key-off state, the battery prevents (electrical) power from being supplied to devices other than lamps and the starter motor to prevent battery discharge.

[0061] The battery is charged using power from an internal generator or the engine 10 while the vehicle 1 is being driven.

[0062] It should be understood that the interior of the vehicle 1, as shown in Fig. 2 and described above is provided for demonstration purposes only and does not limit the scope of the present invention and / or the present disclosure.

[0063] Fig. 3 is a control block diagram of a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0064] As in Fig. 3, the vehicle 1 comprises: the engine 10 for providing a rotational force (e.g., rotational movement) to the vehicle wheels, a water temperature sensor 20 for detecting the temperature of the water of the engine 10, an air temperature sensor 30 for measuring the temperature of the air sucked into the engine 10, the start button 50 for receiving a command to turn the engine 10 on or off, a memory 60 (e.g., a storage device) for storing detection results of the water temperature sensor 20, the air temperature sensor 30, and the engine-off timer 70, the engine-off timer 70 for detecting a duration of the state in which the engine 10 is turned off, the output 80 for outputting whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning), and a control unit 100 to determine whether the engine off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g. as intended) (e.g. working, e.g.works), and to control the previously mentioned components.

[0065] Specifically, the engine 10 may be disposed on the chassis as described above and may include the water temperature sensor 20 and the air temperature sensor 30.

[0066] The engine 10 is switched between on and off (e.g., switched on and / or off) by means of the start button 50, and the engine on (e.g., engine on) / engine off is different from the key on (e.g., key on) / key off, in which battery power is supplied and, e.g., the ECU is switched on.

[0067] In other words, the engine-on state is a state in which the engine 10 is switched to the ACC-on state, and the driver then presses the start button 50 again to start turning on the ignition of the engine 10. In comparison, the engine-off state refers to a state in which the ignition of the engine 10 is turned off (IGN OFF), and includes both the ACC-off and ACC-on states.

[0068] The water temperature sensor 20 is a resistive sensor for detecting water temperature to prevent the engine 10 from overheating and may be arranged in a water path of the intake manifold of the engine 10.

[0069] The water temperature sensor 20 may include a sensor for a water temperature indicator, such as a thermal bimetal or a thermistor (e.g., NTC resistor), for informing the detected water temperature to the control unit 100. The control unit 100 determines whether a cooling start condition (cycle) (e.g., a cooling start cycle) and a warm-up condition (cycle) (e.g., a warm-up cycle) of the engine 10 are met based on the detected value of the water temperature sensor 20, and supplies sufficient (amount) (e.g., an appropriate amount) of water to cool the engine 10.

[0070] The cool start cycle of the engine 10 is a procedure for determining whether the engine 10 is operating normally (e.g., as intended), which means a state in which the engine 10 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) for driving (e.g., driving).

[0071] The warm-up cycle refers to a state of the engine 10 for determining whether a detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 corresponding to a condition (eg, a state) is credible before determining whether the engine-off timer 70 is in operation (eg, working, eg, functioning), and is a procedure for determining whether an operation of the engine-off timer 70 has started.

[0072] If both the cooling start cycle and the warm-up cycle are met (e.g. their conditions), the vehicle 1 determines whether the engine off timer 70 (see Fig. 3) is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning). This is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0073] The air temperature sensor 30 is a resistor for measuring the air temperature sucked into the engine 10, and the control unit 100 determines an amount of fuel injection to be delivered to the engine 10 based on the detected value of the air temperature sensor 30.

[0074] The detected value of the air temperature sensor 30 is used to determine the cooling start cycle and whether the engine off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended).

[0075] The engine-off timer 70 is a timer (eg, timer, eg, a timekeeping device) for measuring the duration in which the engine 10 is turned off (ie, an "engine-off time") and is realized (eg, mounted) with an integrated chip (eg, integrated circuit) (IC) that is in operation (eg, operates, eg, functions) while no (electrical) power is supplied to the control unit 100 and consumes little power.

[0076] When the ACC on command is input to (e.g., via) the start button 50 and the control unit 100 is switched to an operation mode, the engine off timer 70 informs the control unit 100 of the measurement time (e.g., measured time) and then resets the measurement time (e.g., measured time).

[0077] Issue 80 has the components as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, and corresponds to a user interface (e.g. a user interface) for outputting a determination result as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g. as intended) (e.g. working, e.g. functioning) to the driver who gets into the vehicle 1.

[0078] The control unit 100 corresponds to a main unit responsible for controlling an overall operation of the vehicle 1, and may be implemented with a (data) memory (not shown) for storing an algorithm for controlling an operation of the components of the vehicle 1, or data about (e.g., a) program that implements (e.g., executes) the algorithm, and a processor (not shown) for executing the aforementioned operation using the data stored in the (data) memory. The (data) memory and the processor may be implemented in separate chips. Alternatively, the (data) memory and the processor may be implemented in a single chip.

[0079] The control unit 100 determines whether the engine off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) based on detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 and the air temperature sensor 30. The determination procedure of the control unit 100 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0080] The memory 60 is a medium for storing detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20, the air temperature sensor 30 and the engine off timer 70, and programs required for operation of the control unit 100 and other electronic control devices.

[0081] The memory 60 can be implemented with, but is not limited to, a non-volatile (data) storage device such as a cache memory, a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a volatile (data) storage device such as a random access memory (RAM), or a storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 60 can be a (data) memory implemented separately from the aforementioned processor in relation to the control unit 100, or it can be implemented integrally with the processor in a single chip.

[0082] At least one component may be added or removed to improve the performance of the components of the vehicle 1 shown in Fig. 3. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that relative positions of the components may be changed to suit system performance or structure.

[0083] The components of vehicle 1, as shown in Fig. 3, can be implemented in software or hardware, such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and application specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

[0084] Fig. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a conventional procedure of determining whether an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is operating normally (e.g., as intended).

[0085] As in Fig. 4, the driver inputs a key-on command (e.g., ignition key-on command) through the start button 50, in 400.

[0086] The key-on input command refers to an ACC-on command or a battery-on command to supply battery power to the control unit 100 and components of the vehicle 1.

[0087] When the key-on input command is input, the control unit 100 compares a time measured from within the CPU and a time notified (e.g., provided) by the engine-off timer 70 in 440.

[0088] On the other hand, the driver inputs a key-off input command through the start button 50, in 410.

[0089] The key-off input command refers to a command for a state in which battery power is not supplied, ie, the ACC off and IGN off states. While battery power is not supplied, a conventional vehicle switches the control unit 100 to an operation mode at regular intervals (e.g., intervals) to determine whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended).

[0090] In other words, whether a time in which the engine was / is turned off reaches a predetermined time in 420.

[0091] For example, the predetermined time is approximately 80 minutes, and when each interval time is met, the control unit 100 enters the operation mode, ie, the control unit 100 is woken up, in 430.

[0092] Subsequently, the control unit 100 compares a time measured from within the CPU and a time notified (e.g., provided) by the engine-off timer 70 in 440.

[0093] In other words, a diagnostic logic of the conventional engine-off timer allows the battery power to be periodically (e.g., regularly) supplied to the control unit 100 to determine whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended).

[0094] In comparison, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle 1 determines whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the driver inputs the key-on input command without a need to be voluntarily switched to the operation mode (e.g., the control unit 100).

[0095] Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating how to determine whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning), and Fig. 6 is a graph for classifying failures of an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device).

[0096] The vehicle 1 performs a diagnosis (e.g., check) of the engine-off timer 70 based on a relationship (e.g., a correlation) of whether the engine 10 is cooled in the key-off state.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 5 has a normal state determination: Determine whether the engine enters the cool-start cycle in 500, Determine whether the engine enters the warm-up cycle in 600, and Determine whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) in 700.

[0098] Fig. 6 is a graph of a classification of the results obtained in 700 of Fig. 5, into a first and a second error, wherein the x-axis represents a time and the y-axis represents temperature differences of detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 or the air temperature sensor 30 over time.

[0099] Specifically, the time on the x-axis is the hold time to measure an engine off time of the engine off timer 70 and can vary from a few seconds to a few hours.

[0100] As the time the engine 10 is off increases, the engine 10 continues to cool (e.g., becomes cooler). Consequently, the temperature difference between the detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 and the air temperature sensor 30 at a key-on time after a key-off (e.g., a key-off time, e.g., a key-off state) may increase. Based on this, the vehicle 1 determines whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning).

[0101] Specifically, the aforementioned relationship (e.g., correlation) can be classified into a normal state 200, a first fault state in which the engine-off timer 70 has stopped at an abnormally small (e.g., short) start time or the time of the engine-off timer 70 has been delayed compared to the normal state 200, and a second fault state in which the engine-off timer 70 has stopped at an abnormally large (e.g., long) time or the time of the engine-off timer 70 has been advanced compared to the normal state 200.

[0102] In other words, determining whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) in 700 of Fig. 5 a sequential determination of the first error and the second error.

[0103] The overall procedure of determining whether the engine off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g. as intended) (e.g. working, e.g. functioning) will now be described in detail in connection with the Fig. 7 to 11.

[0104] Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determining a cooling start cycle of an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine).

[0105] To determine the cool start cycle, ie, to determine whether the engine 10 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning), the vehicle 1 determines whether it is in the key-on state in 510.

[0106] The vehicle 1 overcomes the traditional (e.g., usual) problem that a normal state cannot be determined while the engine 10 is in the key-off state by determining the normal state of the engine-off timer 70 based on detected values ​​of a condition (e.g., a state) of the engine 10 in the key-on state.

[0107] The control unit 100 receives a detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 at the key-on time from the water temperature sensor 20 in 520.

[0108] In addition, the control unit 100 receives a detected value of the air temperature sensor 30 at a key-on time in 530.

[0109] The control unit 100 determines whether the detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 exceeds a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature in 540.

[0110] For example, the predetermined temperature may be approximately 30 degrees (e.g. degrees Celsius).

[0111] When the detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 exceeds the predetermined temperature, the control unit 100 determines whether the detected value of the air temperature sensor 30 exceeds a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature in 550.

[0112] For example, the predetermined temperature may be approximately 30 degrees (e.g. degrees Celsius).

[0113] If (respectively) the detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 or the air temperature sensor 30 does not exceed the predetermined temperature, no follow-up investigation (e.g., follow-up check) is performed for the engine off timer 70.

[0114] On the contrary, when the detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 and the detected value of the air temperature sensor 30 each exceed the respective predetermined temperatures, the control unit 100 determines the cooling start cycle of the engine 10, ie, the control unit 100 determines that the engine 10 is in stable operation (eg, in a stable operation (eg, working, eg, functioning), eg, running or working stably).

[0115] The control unit 100 then determines whether the warm-up cycle of the engine 10 has progressed in A.

[0116] Fig. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of determining a warm-up cycle of an engine (e.g., internal combustion engine).

[0117] Referring to Fig. 8, the control unit 100 determines whether the motor 10 remains in operation in 610.

[0118] First, it is determined whether the motor 10 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) in 610.

[0119] When the engine 10 is operating normally (e.g., as intended), the control unit 100 monitors the engine off state, ie, whether an engine off command is received.

[0120] The control unit 100 determines whether it is in the engine-off state by the user (e.g., the engine-off state is caused by the user) in 620.

[0121] The engine off state may be a state in which an IGN off or an ACC on command is received from the start button 50.

[0122] When the engine 10 is turned off, the control unit 100 determines from the start button 50 whether it is in the key-off state in 630.

[0123] The key-off state refers to a state in which battery power is not supplied to components of the vehicle 1, which corresponds to the ACC-off state.

[0124] When the key-off state is present (e.g., in the key-off state), the control unit 100 receives a detected value (temperature), hereinafter referred to as a first detected value, of the water temperature sensor 20 and a detected value (temperature), hereinafter referred to as a first detected value, of the air temperature sensor 30 in 640.

[0125] The first detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 and the first detected value of the air temperature sensor 30 each indicate a condition (e.g., a state) of the engine 10 at a time (e.g., a time point) when the key-off command is given, ie, at a key-off time after the engine 10 is / was operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., is operating / has operated, e.g., has functioned / has functioned).

[0126] After receiving the detected values ​​20, 30, the control unit 100 controls the engine-off timer 70 to start measuring a time in the (e.g., the) engine-off state(s).

[0127] On the other hand, if the engine 10 is not operating, or if the engine 10 is not switched to the engine-off state while operating, or if the key-off command is not applied (e.g., issued), a determination as to whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) is not made.

[0128] The control unit 100 compares the first detected value sent from the water temperature sensor 20 with a predetermined (e.g., preset) temperature to determine whether the warm-up cycle is / will be satisfied in 660.

[0129] For example, the predetermined temperature may be approximately 80 degrees (e.g. degrees Celsius).

[0130] If the first detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 does not exceed the predetermined temperature, the control unit 100 does not make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) even if the engine 10 is / will be turned on again.

[0131] Otherwise, when the first detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 exceeds the predetermined temperature, the control unit 100 determines whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) when the engine 10 is turned on from the off state, in B.

[0132] Fig. 9 to 11 are a flowchart (divided among the figures) (or flowchart parts, which together form an overall flowchart) illustrating a detailed procedure of determining whether a (e.g., combustion) engine-off timer (e.g., engine-off timer, e.g., an engine-off timer device) is operating normally (e.g., as intended). The embodiment is used in conjunction with Fig. 7 and Fig. 8 are described together to avoid repeating the explanation / description.

[0133] Referring to Fig. 9, the control unit 100 determines whether it is in the key-on state (e.g., the vehicle is in the key-on state, e.g., the key-on state exists) in 710.

[0134] The key-on state refers to a state in which the driver inputs the ACC-on input command to (e.g., via) the start button 50 while the engine-off timer 70 is operating (e.g., working) after the engine 10 is turned off. Furthermore, satisfying the key-on condition refers to satisfying both the cooling start cycle and the warm-up cycle.

[0135] The control unit 100 receives a detected water temperature value (hereinafter referred to as a second detected water temperature value) from the water temperature sensor 20 at a time (e.g., a time point) when the key-on command is input, in 711.

[0136] The control unit 100 also receives a detected air temperature value (hereinafter called a second detected air temperature value) from the air temperature sensor 30 at the time when the key-on command is input, in 712.

[0137] Finally, the control unit 100 receives a time measured by the engine-off timer 70 while the engine 10 is off, ie, an (internal combustion) engine-off time, in 713.

[0138] The engine off timer 70 informs the control unit 100 of the engine off time and is reset.

[0139] The control unit 100 determines whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) based on the second detected value of the water temperature, the second detected value of the air temperature, and the first detected value of the water temperature (and, e.g., the first detected value of the air temperature) detected at the engine-off time and in the warm-up cycle, in C.

[0140] Referring to Fig. 10, the control unit 100 compares the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 in 720.

[0141] Specifically, the first detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 corresponds to a detected value of the water temperature sensor 20 detected in the warm-up cycle, and the second detected value corresponds to a detected value detected at an end point of the hold time in which the engine-off timer 70 measures the engine-off time.

[0142] When the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 exceeds approximately 30 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the control unit 100 compares detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 in 721.

[0143] When the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 exceeds approximately 20 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the control unit 100 compares the engine off time with a predetermined (e.g., preset) time in 722.

[0144] The preset temperatures of 30 and 20 degrees can vary as can the previously mentioned different set values.

[0145] Alternatively, a comparison of the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 may be performed after the first and second detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 are / have been compared.

[0146] If the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 or the air temperature sensor 30 does not exceed the predetermined temperature, the control unit 100 does not make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) in 725.

[0147] Further, for example, comparing the engine off time with the predetermined time includes determining whether the engine off time exceeds sixty minutes.

[0148] If the engine off time does not exceed sixty minutes, the control unit 100 determines that the engine off timer 70 has a fault, in 723.

[0149] The control unit 100 also determines that a diagnosis (e.g., check) of the engine off timer 70 is completed, in 726.

[0150] The determination that the engine off timer 70 has a fault corresponds to the first fault of Fig. 6.

[0151] The control unit 100 may output a warning to the driver via output 80 indicating that the engine-off timer 70 is not operating normally (e.g., not as intended). If it is determined that the engine-off timer 70 has a fault, the control unit 100 determines whether the fault of the engine-off timer 70 corresponds to (e.g., corresponds to) the second fault in D.

[0152] If the engine off time exceeds sixty minutes, the control unit 100 determines that the engine off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) and completes the diagnosis in 724, 727.

[0153] The predetermined time is not limited to sixty minutes, but can vary.

[0154] Referring to Fig. 11, the control unit 100 determines whether the diagnosis of the engine off timer 70 is complete in 730.

[0155] When the diagnosis of the engine off timer 70 is completed in 726 or 727, as previously described in conjunction with Fig. 10, the control unit 100 does not perform the procedure of Fig. 11 through.

[0156] On the other hand, if the diagnosis of the engine-off timer 70 is not completed in 725, ie, the engine-off timer 70 has not been diagnosed yet (eg, not checked), the control unit 100 executes procedure D from operation 730.

[0157] The control unit 100 determines whether the engine off time notified by the engine off timer 70 exceeds a predetermined (e.g., preset) time in 731.

[0158] For example, the predetermined time may be approximately six hours. The procedure D of Fig. 11 diagnoses (e.g. checks) the second error, as previously in connection with Fig. 5 described.

[0159] If the engine-off time does not exceed the predetermined time, the procedure D of diagnosing (e.g., checking) the engine-off timer 70 is not performed in 736.

[0160] In other words, the requirement to perform the engine-off timer diagnostic procedure is not met, therefore, the diagnostic result of whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) or abnormally (e.g., not as intended) is not output.

[0161] On the other hand, when the engine off time exceeds the predetermined time, the control unit 100 compares the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 in 732.

[0162] If the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 is less than approximately 30 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the diagnostic procedure of the engine off timer 70 is not performed in 736.

[0163] When the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the water temperature sensor 20 is less than approximately 30 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the control unit 100 compares detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 in 733.

[0164] If the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 is less than approximately 20 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the control unit 100 determines that the engine off timer 70 has a fault in 734.

[0165] When the difference between the first and second detected values ​​of the air temperature sensor 30 is not less than approximately 20 degrees (e.g., degrees Celsius), the control unit 100 determines that the engine off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended) (e.g., working, e.g., functioning) in 735.

[0166] The control unit 100 may control the output 80 to notify the driver or anyone else of the determination result of whether the engine-off timer 70 is operating normally (e.g., as intended).

[0167] The respective predetermined reference of 30 or 20 degrees (e.g. degrees Celsius) is only an example and may vary or be different in other embodiments.

[0168] According to embodiments of the present invention, a vehicle (e.g., motor vehicle) and an (e.g., internal combustion) engine-off timer diagnostic method (e.g., engine-off timer diagnostic method, e.g., engine-off timer device diagnostic method) thereof may be capable of diagnosing (e.g., detecting, e.g., checking) whether the engine-off timer is operating normally (e.g., as intended) during a period during which no power is applied (e.g., no (electrical) power supply is turned on), based on (respective) results from the water temperature sensor and the air temperature sensor. In addition, the vehicle and the engine-off timer diagnostic method thereof may improve the accuracy of the engine-off timer and therefore ensure the stability of the vehicle's starter.

Claims

[1] Vehicle (1), comprising: an engine (10), an engine-off timer (70) configured to detect an engine-off time in which the engine (10) is switched off, an air temperature sensor (30) configured to detect a temperature of air drawn into the engine (10), a water temperature sensor (20) configured to detect a temperature of water in the engine (10), and a control unit (100) configured to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70), the temperature of the air sucked into the engine (10) detected by the air temperature sensor (30), and the temperature of the water in the engine (10) detected by the water temperature sensor (20). [2] Vehicle (1) according to claim 1, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to: comparing a first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-off state after the engine (10) is operated and a second temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state after the key-off state with a predetermined temperature, and to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) when the first and second temperatures are each lower than the predetermined temperature. [3] Vehicle (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to: comparing a first temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-off state after the engine (10) is operated and a second temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state after the key-off state with a predetermined temperature, and to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) when the first and second temperatures are each lower than the predetermined temperature. [4] The vehicle (1) according to claim 2, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally by comparing the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) with a predetermined time. [5] The vehicle (1) according to claim 3, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to determine whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally by comparing the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) with a predetermined time. [6] Vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to: to determine whether a cooling start condition of the engine (10) is satisfied based on a temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) and a temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30), each detected at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state, and to determine whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally when the cooling start condition is met. [7] Vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1-6, when in combination with claim 2, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured to: to determine whether a warm-up condition is satisfied based on the first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at the time when the vehicle (1) is in the key-off state after the engine (10) is operated, and to determine whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally when the warm-up condition is met. [8] The vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1-7 when used in combination with claim 2, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured not to make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally when the first and second temperatures detected by the water temperature sensor (20) each exceed the predetermined temperature. [9] The vehicle (1) according to any one of claims 1-8 when used in combination with claim 3, wherein the control unit (100) is further configured not to make a determination as to whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally when the first and second temperatures detected by the air temperature sensor (30) each exceed the predetermined temperature. [10] The vehicle according to any one of claims 1-9, further comprising: an output (80) configured to output a result of whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally. [11] An engine-off timer diagnostic method of a vehicle (1), the method comprising: Detecting an engine-off time in which an engine (10) of the vehicle (1) is switched off using an engine-off timer (70), Determining a temperature of air sucked into the engine (10), which is detected using an air temperature sensor (30), Determining a temperature of water of the engine (10), which is detected using a water temperature sensor (20), and Determining (700) whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine off time detected by the engine off timer (70), the temperature of the air drawn into the engine (10) detected by the air temperature sensor (30), and the temperature of the water in the engine (10) detected by the water temperature sensor (20). [12] The method of claim 11, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: respectively comparing (720) a first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-off state after the engine (10) is operated and a second temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state after the key-off state with a predetermined temperature, and Determining whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine off time detected by the engine off timer (70) when the first and second temperatures are each lower than the predetermined temperature. [13] The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: respectively comparing (721) a first temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-off state after the engine (10) is operated and a second temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30) at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state after the key-off state with a predetermined temperature, and Determining whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally based on the engine off time detected by the engine off timer (70) when the first and second temperatures are each lower than the predetermined temperature. [14] The method of claim 12, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Determining whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally by comparing (722) the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) with a predetermined time. [15] The method of claim 13, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Determining whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally by comparing (722) the engine-off time detected by the engine-off timer (70) with a predetermined time. [16] The method of any one of claims 11-15, wherein determining (700) whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Determining whether a cooling start condition of the engine (10) is satisfied based on a temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) and a temperature detected by the air temperature sensor (30), each detected at a time when the vehicle (1) is in a key-on state, and Determine whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally when the cooling start condition is met (560). [17] A method according to any one of claims 11-16 when used in combination with claim 12, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Determining (A) whether a warm-up condition is satisfied based on the first temperature detected by the water temperature sensor (20) at the time when the vehicle (1) is in the key-off state after the engine (10) is operated, and Determine whether the engine off timer (70) is operating normally when the warm-up condition is met (670). [18] A method according to any one of claims 11-17 when combined with claim 12, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Not making (725) a determination as to whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally when the first and second temperatures detected by the water temperature sensor (20) each exceed the predetermined temperature. [19] A method according to any one of claims 11-18 when combined with claim 13, wherein determining (700) whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally comprises: Not making (725) a determination as to whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally when the first and second temperatures detected by the air temperature sensor (30) each exceed the predetermined temperature. [20] The method according to any one of claims 11-19, further comprising: outputting a result as to whether the engine-off timer (70) is operating normally.

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