METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A DRIVE SYSTEM

Abstract

Method (200) for controlling a drive system (104) in a hybrid electric vehicle (100), wherein the drive system (104) comprises an internal combustion engine (160) and an electric motor (150), wherein the method (200) comprises: Acquisition (206), via one or more sensors (120), of sensor data relating to the hybrid electric vehicle (100); Determine (208), via a processor (132), whether cold-start emission reduction is required, based on the sensor data; and Providing (210) an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor (150) via instructions supplied by the processor (132) to the drive system (104) when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, Acquiring (206) additional sensor data from the one or more sensors (120) during cold start emission reduction, wherein the additional sensor data relate to an internal combustion engine torque (160) and an internal combustion engine exhaust gas temperature (160); and Performing (220) a diagnosis of the drive system (104) via the processor (132) using the additional sensor data, Determine (212) whether a traction control event, a stability control event or both occur; the diagnosis is interrupted if the traction control event, the stability control event, or both occur.

Description

[0001] The technical field generally refers to the area of ​​hybrid electric vehicles and in particular to the control of cold start emission reduction processes in hybrid electric vehicles.

[0002] Certain hybrid electric vehicles today have both a combustion engine and an electric motor. Under certain circumstances, the combustion engine's emissions during the initial start (e.g., a cold start) can be relatively higher than when the combustion engine is running at full capacity. However, existing techniques for controlling the vehicle in such cases, including cold-start emission reduction, are not always optimal.

[0003] German patent application DE 10 2009 007 882 A1 discloses a method for reducing cold-start emissions in hybrid vehicles. This method involves modifying the combustion parameters of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid vehicle. The aim is to provide an engine power output that is insufficient to maintain the crankshaft rotation at a target speed. This is achieved by increasing the exhaust gas temperature and reducing the exhaust gas emission content. Additionally, the engine power output is supplemented by an electric motor in the hybrid vehicle to maintain the crankshaft rotation at the target speed. A control module includes a cold-start combustion control module. This module modifies the combustion parameters of the hybrid vehicle's internal combustion engine to provide an engine power output that is insufficient to maintain the crankshaft rotation at a target speed.The modification involves raising the temperature of the exhaust gas and reducing its emission content. A further control module of the electric motor supplements the power output of the internal combustion engine using the hybrid vehicle's electric motor to maintain the crankshaft rotation at the target speed.

[0004] German patent application DE 103 33 210 A1 discloses a hybrid vehicle with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, each capable of delivering torque. The internal combustion engine is equipped with an exhaust system including a catalytic converter, the conversion activity of which depends on predetermined activity parameters. According to the invention, the value of the conversion activity is determined at a predetermined time interval. To reach a predetermined conversion threshold for the catalytic converter, if the conversion activity value falls below this threshold, the torque output of the electric motor is increased as required, and the torque output of the internal combustion engine is decreased. For this purpose, a device for controlling the torque output of the internal combustion engine and the electric motor is provided.

[0005] German patent application DE 10 2006 051 832 A1 discloses a method and a device for controlling the drive torque of a hybrid drive unit of a motor vehicle after a start-up process. The hybrid drive unit comprises a first drive source, in particular an internal combustion engine, and at least one electric machine that can be operated either as a motor or as a generator. In motor mode, the electric machine provides an electromotive torque, which, together with a torque from the first drive source, constitutes the total drive torque of the drive unit, and in generator mode, it delivers electrical power. The device is designed to determine the torque difference between a predetermined target torque and a currently requested desired torque.If predetermined criteria are met, the first drive source is operated according to the predetermined target torque, and the electric machine is operated in such a way that it provides an electromotive torque essentially corresponding to the torque difference if the difference is negative.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2018 119 428 A1 discloses a vehicle with a powertrain and a control system. The powertrain comprises an internal combustion engine and an electric machine. The control system is programmed to maintain a constant internal combustion engine torque output and adjust the electric machine torque output to meet driver demand as long as the temperature of the catalytic converter is below a threshold. The control system is further programmed to allow adjustments to the internal combustion engine torque output to meet driver demand when the temperature of the catalytic converter exceeds the threshold.

[0007] German patent application DE 10 2010 048 785 A1 discloses a control system for a hybrid vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The system includes an engine speed control module, an air pressure control module, and an engine torque control module. The engine speed control module increases the engine speed during a first calibration period based on a driver torque request and a predetermined torque threshold. The air pressure control module decreases the engine manifold pressure (MAP) during a second calibration period based on the driver torque request and the predetermined torque threshold. The engine torque control module starts the engine during a period following the first and second calibration periods by activating N of M cylinders, where N is based on the driver torque request and the predetermined torque threshold.

[0008] German patent application DE 10 2019 115 836 A1 discloses a system and method for implementing torque transfer between an electric machine and an internal combustion engine in a motor vehicle. To perform the torque transfer without undue delay, the exhaust gas temperature is taken into account to determine whether an emission stability criterion for the torque transfer is met. If the emission stability criterion is met, the system and method are configured to transfer the torque from the electric machine to the internal combustion engine. If the exhaust gas is sufficiently warm, it can be determined that the engine is operating with sufficiently low hydrocarbon emissions in accordance with emission regulations, so that the torque transfer can take place with confidence in compliance with emission standards.

[0009] Document US 2022 / 0076507A1 discloses a method for diagnosing a cold start emission reduction system fault, confirming the change in torque reserve compared to the torque reserve confirmed for ignition timing during a cold start due to the operation of an electrical load device, the operation of an alternator, the operation of a vent valve, the operation of an air conditioning system, the shift state of a transmission, and the coolant temperature state of an engine, and confirming whether the failure or normality of the electrical load device, alternator, vent valve, or air conditioning system is normal or failed, using the change in torque reserve to apply the confirmed result to determine whether the cold start emission reduction system is abnormal.

[0010] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a vehicle and method for controlling hybrid electric vehicles during cold starts when combustion engines are switched on, including cold-start emission reduction. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description of the invention and the accompanying claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background of the invention.

[0011] A method for controlling a drive system in a hybrid electric vehicle, wherein the drive system comprises an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, the method comprising: acquiring sensor data relating to the hybrid electric vehicle via one or more sensors; determining, via a processor, whether cold-start emission reduction is required based on the sensor data; and providing an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor, via instructions provided by the processor to the drive system, when it is determined that cold-start emission reduction is required.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises providing a delay of the ignition spark of the internal combustion engine simultaneously with the increase of the torque provided by the electric motor via the instructions provided by the processor to the drive system when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, wherein the increase in the torque provided by the electric motor is equivalent to a decrease in the torque provided by the internal combustion engine as a result of the delay of the ignition spark.

[0013] Also in an exemplary embodiment: the step of acquiring the sensor data includes measuring an ambient temperature around the hybrid electric vehicle via one or more temperature sensors; and the step of determining whether cold start emission reduction is required includes determining, via the processor, whether cold start emission reduction is required based on the ambient temperature.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the steps of obtaining the sensor data, determining whether cold-start emission reduction is required, and providing the torque increase supplied by the electric motor are each performed while the combustion engine of the hybrid electric vehicle is started and after the hybrid electric vehicle has already been driven on a roadway powered by the electric motor.

[0015] The procedure also includes: acquiring additional sensor data from the one or more sensors during cold start emission reduction, wherein the additional sensor data include internal combustion engine torque and internal combustion engine exhaust gas temperature; and performing a diagnostic check of the powertrain system via the processor using the additional sensor data.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes the notification via the processor, based on the diagnosis performed on the additional sensor data: that the drive system has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine are both within their respective target ranges; and that the drive system has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust gas temperature, or both, of the internal combustion engine are not within their respective target ranges.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the reporting step also includes reporting to the processor based on the diagnosis performed on the additional sensor data: that the drive system has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust temperature of the internal combustion engine are both greater than or equal to their respective predetermined thresholds; and that the drive system has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust temperature, or both, of the internal combustion engine are less than their respective predetermined thresholds.

[0018] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further includes determining whether a shifting operation is taking place in a transmission gear of the hybrid electric vehicle; wherein the diagnosis is stopped if the shifting operation is taking place in that transmission gear.

[0019] The procedure further includes determining whether a traction control event, a stability control event, or both occur; the diagnosis is interrupted if the traction control event, the stability control event, or both occur.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a system for controlling a drive system in a hybrid electric vehicle is provided, wherein the drive system comprises an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, and wherein the system includes: one or more sensors configured to generate sensor data relating to the hybrid electric vehicle; and a processor coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to enable at least the following: determining whether cold-start emission reduction is required based on the sensor data; and providing an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor via commands provided by the processor to the drive system when it is determined that cold-start emission reduction is required.

[0021] Also in an exemplary embodiment: the one or more sensors are further configured to generate additional sensor data relating to the internal combustion engine's torque and exhaust gas temperature; and the processor is further configured to enable at least the following: the performance of diagnostics for the drive system via the processor using the additional sensor data; and the reporting via the processor, based on the diagnosis performed using the additional sensor data: that the drive system has passed the diagnosis if the internal combustion engine's torque and exhaust gas temperature are both within their respective target ranges; and that the drive system has failed the diagnosis if either the internal combustion engine's torque or exhaust gas temperature, or both, are not within their respective target ranges.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, a vehicle is provided comprising a propulsion system and a control system. The propulsion system includes an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The control system includes one or more sensors and a processor. The one or more sensors are configured to generate sensor data relating to the vehicle. The processor is coupled to the one or more sensors and configured to at least: determine, based on the sensor data, whether cold-start emission reduction is required; and provide an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor via instructions provided by the processor to the propulsion system when it is determined that cold-start emission reduction is required.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least make it possible to provide the delay of the ignition spark of the internal combustion engine simultaneously with the increase of the torque supplied by the electric motor via the instructions supplied by the processor to the drive system when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, wherein the increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor is equivalent to a decrease in the torque supplied by the internal combustion engine as a result of the delay of the ignition spark.

[0024] Also in an exemplary embodiment: The one or more sensors are further configured to at least facilitate the measurement of an ambient temperature surrounding the vehicle; and the processor is further configured to at least enable the determination of whether cold-start emission reduction is required based on the ambient temperature.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more sensors are configured to generate the sensor data, and the processor is configured to at least enable the determination of whether cold-start emission reduction is required and to provide the increase in torque supplied by the electric motor when the vehicle's internal combustion engine is started and after the vehicle has already been driving on a road using the electric motor.

[0026] The one or more sensors are further configured to enable at least the generation of additional sensor data during cold start emission reduction, wherein the additional sensor data include the internal combustion engine torque and the internal combustion engine exhaust gas temperature; and the processor is further configured to enable at least the performance of a diagnostic procedure for the drive system via the processor using the additional sensor data.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable, based on the diagnosis performed on the additional sensor data, at least the message that the drive system has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine are both within their respective target ranges, and that the drive system has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust gas temperature or both of the internal combustion engine are not within their respective target ranges.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to enable, based on the diagnosis performed on the additional sensor data, at least the message that the drive system has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine are both greater than or equal to the respective predetermined thresholds, and that the drive system has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust gas temperature or both of the internal combustion engine are less than the respective predetermined thresholds.

[0029] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is also configured to enable at least the following: determining whether a shift operation is taking place in a transmission gear of the vehicle; and stopping the diagnostics if the shift operation is taking place in that transmission gear.

[0030] The processor is also configured to enable at least the following: determining whether a traction control event, a stability control event, or both are occurring; and stopping the diagnostics when the traction control event, the stability control event, or both are occurring.

[0031] The present disclosure is described below in conjunction with the following figures, where identical numbers denote identical elements and where: Fig. Figure 1 is a functional block diagram of a hybrid electric vehicle comprising a drive system with an internal combustion engine and an electric motor, and a control system that controls the drive system, including emission reduction during cold starts, according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart of a procedure for controlling a drive system of a hybrid electric vehicle during cold start emission reduction, which is used in conjunction with the vehicle of Fig. 1, including the drive system and the control system thereof, can be implemented in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0032] Fig. Figure 1 shows a vehicle 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. As described in more detail below, the vehicle 100 comprises a drive system 104 and a control system 102, which controls the drive system 104 during cold start emission reduction, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0033] In various embodiments, the vehicle 100 is a hybrid electric vehicle. In various embodiments, the drive system 104 comprises both an electric motor 150 and an internal combustion engine 160. In various embodiments, the electric motor 150 is coupled to and charged by a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) 152 of the vehicle 100, such as one or more vehicle batteries. In certain embodiments, the RESS 152 is configured to be charged by one or more power sources (e.g., sockets, in Fig. (1 not shown) is charged, which may be located, for example, outside the vehicle 100. Also in various embodiments, the internal combustion engine 160 is connected to one or more fuel sources 162 (e.g., a tank for gasoline, diesel, and / or other combustible fuel).

[0034] In certain embodiments, the vehicle 100 comprises an automobile. In various embodiments, the vehicle 100 can be any one of a range of different types of automobiles, such as a sedan, station wagon, truck, or sport utility vehicle (SUV), and can be two-wheel drive (2WD) (i.e., rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD), and / or various other types of vehicles in certain embodiments. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 100 can also comprise a motorcycle and / or one or more other types of vehicles. Furthermore, the vehicle 100 can also comprise any number of other types of mobile platforms in various embodiments.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises a body 110 that essentially encloses other components of the vehicle 100. Also in the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises a plurality of axles 112 and wheels 114. The wheels 114 are each rotatably connected to one or more of the axles 112 near a corresponding corner of the body 110 to facilitate the movement of the vehicle 100. In one embodiment, the vehicle 100 comprises four wheels 114, although this may vary in other embodiments (e.g., for trucks and certain other vehicles). In various embodiments, the drive system 104 (described above) drives the wheels 114 to propel the vehicle 100, including the body 110.

[0036] In various embodiments, the vehicle 100 may also include one or more other systems 106. In certain embodiments, such other systems 106 may include a stability control system 170, a traction control system 180 and / or one or more other systems 106.

[0037] In various embodiments, the control system 102 provides instructions for controlling the drive system 104, even during emission reduction at cold start (e.g., when the internal combustion engine 160 is just starting and emissions may need to be reduced). In various embodiments, the control of the drive system 104 by the control system 102 includes, among other features, the control and diagnosis of the contribution of the electric motor 150 of the drive system 104 during cold start emission reduction for the vehicle 100. In various embodiments, the control system 102 provides these functions, as described below in connection with method 200. Fig. 2 described.

[0038] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control system 102 comprises a sensor array 120 and a control unit 130 in various embodiments.

[0039] In various embodiments, the sensor arrangement comprises 120 different sensors for measuring sensor data, including engine torque, transmission gear status, and exhaust gas temperature for vehicle 100. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the sensor arrangement 120 in various embodiments comprises one or more motor sensors 122, gear sensors 123 and temperature sensors 124.

[0040] In various embodiments, the one or more motor sensors 122 measure the torque of the internal combustion engine 160. In certain exemplary embodiments, the motor sensors 122 are part of the internal combustion engine 160 or coupled to it. In certain embodiments, the motor sensors 122 can also detect one or more faults in the drive system 104, e.g., in the internal combustion engine 160, the electric motor 150, and / or one or more electrical systems and / or other systems, devices, and / or components belonging thereto.

[0041] In various embodiments, the transmission sensor(s) 123 also detect a transmission and / or an operating gear of the vehicle 100 (e.g., park, reverse, neutral, or drive). In various embodiments, the transmission sensors 123 are part of the drive system 104 and / or a gear selector switch and / or another user input device for the vehicle 100, or are coupled to it.

[0042] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the temperature sensors 124 measure the temperature of the exhaust gases of the vehicle 100. In various embodiments, the temperature sensors 124 are part of, or coupled to, the drive system 104 and / or an exhaust system (not shown) of the vehicle 100. In certain embodiments, the temperature sensors may also include one or more additional temperature sensors, including, but not limited to, one or more ambient temperature sensors configured to measure the ambient temperature of an environment directly outside the vehicle 100 and its surroundings.

[0043] In various embodiments, the control unit 130 is also coupled to the sensor arrangement 120 and to one or more of the other systems 106 and provides instructions for controlling the drive system 104, including the instruction and diagnosis of the contribution of the electric motor 150 during cold-start emission reduction in relation to the internal combustion engine 160. In various embodiments, these steps are carried out in conjunction with the Fig. The procedures shown in section 2 and described below in connection with them were carried out in 200.

[0044] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control unit 130, in various embodiments, comprises a computer system with a processor 132, a memory 134, an interface, a storage device 138, a bus 140, and a hard disk 146. In certain embodiments, the control unit 130 may also comprise the sensor arrangement 120, one or more of the other systems 106 or components thereof, and / or one or more other vehicle components. Furthermore, the control unit 130 may differ from the one shown in Figure 1. Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 differs. For example, the control unit 130 can be coupled with one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems or otherwise utilize them, for example as part of one or more of the vehicle devices and systems mentioned above.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the computer system of the control unit 130 comprises a processor 132, a memory 134, an interface 136, a storage device 138, and a bus 140. The processor 132 performs the calculation and control functions of the control unit 130 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any number of integrated circuits and / or printed circuit boards working together to perform the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 132 executes one or more programs 142 contained in the memory 134 and, as such, controls the general operation of the control unit 130 and the computer system of the control unit 130, generally during the execution of the processes described herein, such as process 200, which is further described below in connection with Fig. 2 is discussed.

[0046] The memory 134 can be any suitable type of memory. For example, the memory 134 can include various types of dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) such as SDRAM, the various types of static RAM (SRAM), and the various types of non-volatile memory (PROM, EPROM, and Flash). In certain examples, the memory 134 is located on the same computer chip as the processor 132 and / or is housed together with it. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory 134 stores the aforementioned program 142 together with one or more stored values ​​144 (e.g., in various embodiments, including predetermined thresholds for controlling the emissions of the propulsion system).

[0047] Bus 140 serves to transmit programs, data, status, and other information or signals between the various components of the control unit's computer system 130. Interface 136 enables communication with the control unit's computer system, e.g., from a system driver and / or another computer system, and can be implemented using any suitable method and device. In one embodiment, interface 136 receives various data from the sensor array 120, the drive system 104, and / or one or more other components and / or systems of the vehicle 100. Interface 136 can include one or more network interfaces for communication with other systems or components.Interface 136 may also include one or more network interfaces for communication with technicians and / or one or more storage interfaces for connection to storage devices, such as the storage device 138.

[0048] The storage device 138 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of random-access memory and / or other storage devices. In an exemplary embodiment, the storage device 138 comprises a program product from which the memory 134 can receive a program 142 that executes one or more embodiments of one or more processes of the present disclosure, such as the steps of process 200, which are described below in connection with Fig. 2 will be discussed. In another exemplary embodiment, the program product can be stored directly in the memory 134 and / or one or more other disks 146 and / or other storage devices and / or it can be accessed in another way.

[0049] The bus 140 can be any suitable physical or logical means for connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct, hard-wired connections, fiber optic technology, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program 142 is stored in memory 134 and executed by processor 132.

[0050] It is evident that although this exemplary embodiment is described in connection with a fully functional computer system, the person skilled in the art will recognize that the mechanisms of the present disclosure can be distributed as a program product using one or more types of non-transient, computer-readable, signal-carrying media for storing the program and its instructions and for carrying out its distribution, such as a non-transient, computer-readable medium carrying the program and containing computer instructions stored therein to induce a computer processor (such as processor 132) to execute and carry out the program. Such a program product can take a variety of forms, and the present disclosure applies equally regardless of the specific type of computer-readable signal-carrying medium used for carrying out the distribution.Examples of signal-carrying media include: writable media such as floppy disks, hard drives, memory cards, and optical discs, as well as transmission media such as digital and analog communication links. In certain embodiments, cloud-based storage and / or other technologies may also be used. It is also acknowledged that the computer system of the control unit 130 may otherwise differ from the one described in [reference missing]. Fig. 1 can differ from the embodiment shown, for example in that the computer system of the control unit 130 can be coupled with one or more remote computer systems and / or other control systems or can otherwise use them.

[0051] Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart of a process 200 for controlling a vehicle's drive system during cold-start emission reduction, according to an exemplary embodiment. In various embodiments, the process 200 can be used in conjunction with the vehicle 100. Fig. 1, including the drive system 104 and the control system 102, will be implemented.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, process 200 begins at step 202 in various embodiments. In certain embodiments, process 200 begins when one or more events occur indicating that an internal combustion engine (such as the internal combustion engine 160) is started and / or running (step 204). In certain other embodiments, process 200 may begin when the vehicle 100 is switched on, when the transmission of the vehicle 100 is put into a "driving" mode, and / or when the control system 102 is switched on or "woken up," and so on. In certain embodiments, process 200 begins (and each of the steps of process 200 is performed) when the internal combustion engine 160 of the vehicle 100 is started and after the vehicle 100 has already traveled along a roadway driven by the electric motor 150 of the vehicle 100.

[0053] Sensor data is collected at 206. In various embodiments, sensor data from different sensors of the sensor arrangement 120 are used. Fig. 1. In various embodiments, sensor data relating to the engine torque, the transmission gear, and the exhaust gas temperature of the vehicle 100 are collected from the engine sensors 122, the transmission sensors 123, and the temperature sensors 124, respectively. Fig. 1 received and the processor 132 of the control system 102 from Fig. 1 provided for processing. In certain embodiments, an ambient temperature can also be obtained from one or more of the temperature sensors 124, and messages from the other systems 106 of the vehicle 100 regarding their function or operation can be received, including information on whether the stability control and / or the traction control is automatically controlled via the stability control system 170 and / or the traction control system 180. Fig. 1 will be implemented, and so on.

[0054] In various embodiments, it is determined whether a cold start emission reduction (CSER) is required (step 206). In various embodiments, the processor 132 takes from Fig. 1 this determination based on the sensor data from step 206, if the internal combustion engine 160 of Fig. 1 is started, based on the ambient temperature and / or other environmental conditions that may lead to increased emissions during the starting of the internal combustion engine 160. In certain embodiments, this determination is made after the vehicle 100 has already been started by the electric motor 150 before the internal combustion engine 160 is started. Fig. 1 has started the journey on a roadway.

[0055] If, in step 206, it is determined that a CSER is not required, in various embodiments the operation of the drive system continues in the same manner as before (step 209). In particular, processor 132 outputs Fig. 1 in certain embodiments instructions for the drive system 104 of Fig. 1. to continue operation as usual, without additional contributions from the electric motor 150. In various embodiments, the process is repeated in a new iteration, e.g., when the internal combustion engine 160 is Fig. Step 204 is restarted, also with new sensor data from step 206.

[0056] Conversely, in various embodiments, if it is determined in step 206 that a CSER is required, an electric torque is requested from the electric motor (step 210). In particular, in various embodiments, the processor 132 gives instructions to the drive system 104 to delay the ignition of the internal combustion engine 160 in order to reduce emissions and simultaneously increase the torque provided by the electric motor 150.Accordingly, in various embodiments, the instructions provided by the processor 132 are executed by the drive system 104 in a manner that results in a reduced torque for the internal combustion engine 160 (due to the delay of the spark to reduce exhaust gases when starting the internal combustion engine 160), and this reduction in the torque of the internal combustion engine 160 is compensated by an equivalent increase in the torque of the electric motor 150 in order to continue the desired movement of the vehicle 100 in accordance with the instructions provided by the user (e.g., via an accelerator pedal and / or other user input devices for the vehicle 100) while the CSER is executed during the starting of the internal combustion engine 160.

[0057] In various embodiments, step 212 also determines whether various conditions associated with the CSER are in effect. In particular, in certain embodiments, the processor 132 uses the sensor data from step 206 and / or inputs from the drive system 104 and / or other systems 106. Fig. 1, to determine whether a first condition 214, a second condition 216 and a third condition 218, which are associated with the CSER, are each in force.

[0058] In various embodiments, the first condition 214 is that no gear shifting takes place (i.e., that “gear shifting = false”, meaning that the transmission does not shift between park, reverse, neutral, and / or drive, etc.). In certain embodiments, the first condition (e.g., by processor 132 of Fig. 1) via sensor data from the transmission sensors 123 of Fig. 1 determined.

[0059] In various embodiments, the second condition 216 also consists in the fact that no traction or stability control event occurs (i.e., that “traction / stability control event = false”, meaning that neither the stability control system 170 nor the traction control system 180 performs automatic vehicle control based on traction or stability conditions). In certain embodiments, the second condition is (e.g., by the processor 132 of Fig. 1) based on notifications from the Stability Control System 170 and / or the Traction Control System 180 from Fig. 1 determined.

[0060] Furthermore, in various embodiments, the third condition 218 is that no motor or electrical fault occurs (i.e., that “other motor or electrical fault = false”, meaning that no faults with the internal combustion engine 160, the electric motor 150, and / or other associated systems are detected). In certain embodiments, the third condition (e.g., by the processor 132 of Fig. 1) based on sensor data from the one or more motor sensors 122 of Fig. 1 determined.

[0061] In various embodiments, the provisions of step 212 with respect to conditions 214, 216 and 218 are used to initiate and / or stop the diagnosis of the propulsion system 104 (including the internal combustion engine 160) during the cold start emission reduction event.

[0062] In various embodiments, if during step 212 it is determined that one or more of conditions 214, 216 and / or 218 are not met, the process returns to step 208. In various embodiments, step 208 is then continued in a new iteration with updated data from sensor arrangement 120. Fig. 1 and of the drive system 104 and other systems 106 of Fig. 1. If one or more of conditions 214, 216 and / or 218 are not met and the process returns to step 208, in various embodiments no diagnostics (e.g., of steps 220 and 220 described below) are performed during this cold start emission reduction event (or part thereof).

[0063] Conversely, also in various embodiments, if instead during step 212 it is found that each of the conditions 214, 216 and 218 is satisfied, then the process proceeds instead to steps 220 and 222, as a diagnosis is performed for the drive system 104 (including the internal combustion engine 160), as described below.

[0064] In particular, in various embodiments, the engine torque and exhaust gas temperature are monitored in step 220. Specifically, processor 132 of Fig. 1 in various embodiments of step 220, which are measured by the motor sensors 122 and the temperature sensors 124 Fig. 1 received sensor data regarding the torque or exhaust gas temperature of the combustion engine 160 of Fig. 1.

[0065] In various embodiments, the diagnostics of the drive system 104 and its internal combustion engine 160 also include determining whether the engine conditions are within a target range (step 222). In particular, in various embodiments, the processor 132 determines whether the engine torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine 160, as monitored in step 220, are both within acceptable or target ranges. In certain embodiments, it is determined that the engine torque is within an acceptable range if it is greater than or equal to a first predetermined threshold, and that the exhaust gas temperature is within an acceptable range if it is greater than or equal to a second predetermined threshold. In certain embodiments, these first and second predetermined thresholds are also stored in memory 134. Fig. 144 stored values. In certain exemplary embodiments, it is determined that the engine torque is within an acceptable range if the engine torque is between forty and eighty newton meters (40-80 nm), and that the exhaust gas temperature is within an acceptable range if the exhaust gas temperature is more than 400 degrees Celsius (400 °C).

[0066] As indicated above with reference to step 212, if at any time during an iteration of step 212 it is determined that one of the conditions 214, 216, 218 is not satisfied (e.g., that a gear shift is taking place, a traction control event, a stability control event or both occur, or that another engine or electrical fault is detected), the diagnosis of steps 220 and 222 is stopped, and the process returns to step 208 as described above.

[0067] Returning to step 222: If, in step 222, it is determined that one or more engine states are not within their respective target ranges, a failure of the drive system or the engine is reported (step 224). In particular, in various embodiments, the processor 132 determines that if the engine torque is below the first predetermined threshold, or the exhaust gas temperature is below the second predetermined temperature, or both, the drive system 104 (including the internal combustion engine 160) must be shut down. Fig. 1. has failed the diagnostic test. In certain embodiments, the failure of the diagnostic test is stored in memory 134 and / or transmitted to one or more persons and / or entities (e.g., a driver or other user of the vehicle, a repair shop, or a service technician, etc.) for the purpose of servicing the vehicle 100. For example, in certain embodiments, the failure of the diagnostic test may necessitate further diagnosis and / or maintenance of the propulsion system 104, such as the internal combustion engine 160, the electric motor, the RESS 152, and / or various other components of the propulsion system 104, and may be used in conjunction with such diagnosis and / or maintenance. In certain embodiments, as part of step 224, a notification may also be provided that maintenance of the propulsion system 104 is recommended at that time based on the diagnosis of process 200.

[0068] Conversely, also in various embodiments, if it is determined that all engine conditions are within their respective target ranges, it is reported that the drive system or the engine has passed (step 226). In particular, in various embodiments, if both the engine torque and the exhaust gas temperature are greater than or equal to their respective predetermined thresholds, the processor 132 determines that the drive system 104 (including the internal combustion engine 160) has passed. Fig. 1 has passed the diagnostic test. In certain embodiments, the passing of the diagnostic test is stored in memory 134 and / or communicated to one or more persons and / or units (e.g., a driver or other user of the vehicle, a repair shop, or a service technician, etc.) so that they are aware and / or understand during the maintenance of the vehicle 100 that there are no detected faults from process 200 that would justify maintenance of the drive system 104 at that time. In certain embodiments, as part of step 226, a notification may also be provided that maintenance of the drive system 104 is not required at that time based on the diagnosis of process 200.

[0069] In various embodiments, the process is terminated in step 228 after reporting (in step 224 or 226).

[0070] Accordingly, methods, systems, and vehicles are provided for controlling a vehicle's drive system during the vehicle's cold-start emissions control. In various embodiments, a torque contribution from an electric motor of the drive system is requested during cold-start emissions control, for example, to compensate for a torque loss from the internal combustion engine and to keep the vehicle moving in a desired manner during the cold-start emissions control process. In various embodiments, the engine torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine are also monitored to diagnose potential faults in the drive system during the vehicle's cold-start emissions control.

[0071] It becomes clear that the systems, vehicles, applications, and implementations may differ from those depicted in the figures and described here. For example, in different embodiments, the vehicle 100, the control system 102, the drive system 104, components thereof, and / or other components may differ from those shown in Fig. The steps of procedure 200, as depicted in Figure 1 and / or described above in connection with it, differ. It also becomes clear that the steps of procedure 200 can be different and / or that various steps of it can be carried out simultaneously and / or in a different order than those shown in Figure 1. Fig. 2 shown and / or described above.

Claims

[1] Method (200) for controlling a drive system (104) in a hybrid electric vehicle (100), wherein the drive system (104) comprises an internal combustion engine (160) and an electric motor (150), wherein the method (200) comprises: Acquisition (206), via one or more sensors (120), of sensor data relating to the hybrid electric vehicle (100); Determine (208), via a processor (132), whether cold-start emission reduction is required, based on the sensor data; and Providing (210) an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor (150) via instructions supplied by the processor (132) to the drive system (104) when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, Acquiring (206) additional sensor data from the one or more sensors (120) during cold start emission reduction, wherein the additional sensor data relate to an internal combustion engine torque (160) and an internal combustion engine exhaust gas temperature (160); and Performing (220) a diagnosis of the drive system (104) via the processor (132) using the additional sensor data, Determine (212) whether a traction control event, a stability control event or both occur; the diagnosis is interrupted if the traction control event, the stability control event, or both occur. [2] Method (200) according to claim 1, further comprising: Providing (210) a delay of the ignition spark of the internal combustion engine (160) simultaneously with the increase of the torque provided by the electric motor (150) via the instructions supplied by the processor (132) to the drive system (104) when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, wherein the increase of the torque provided by the electric motor (150) is equal to a decrease in the torque provided by the internal combustion engine (160) as a result of the delay of the ignition spark. [3] Method (200) according to claim 1, wherein: the step of acquiring (206) the sensor data includes measuring an ambient temperature surrounding the hybrid electric vehicle (100) via one or more temperature sensors (124); and The step of determining (208) whether cold start emission reduction is required includes determining (208) via the processor (132) whether cold start emission reduction is required based on the ambient temperature. [4] Method (200) according to claim 1, wherein the steps of acquiring (206) the sensor data, determining (208) whether cold start emission reduction is required, and providing (210) the increase in torque provided by the electric motor (150) are each carried out while the internal combustion engine (160) of the hybrid electric vehicle (100) is started and after the hybrid electric vehicle (100) has already been driven on a roadway powered by the electric motor (150). [5] Method (200) according to claim 1, further comprising: Reports (224), about the processor (132), based on the diagnosis performed using the additional sensor data: that the drive system (104) has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine (160) are both within their respective target ranges; and that the drive system (104) has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust gas temperature or both of the internal combustion engine (160) are not within the respective target ranges. [6] Method (200) according to claim 1, wherein the reporting step (224) comprises reporting (224) via the processor (132) based on the diagnosis performed on the additional sensor data: that the drive system (104) has passed the diagnosis if the torque and exhaust gas temperature of the internal combustion engine (160) are both greater than or equal to their respective specified threshold values; and that the drive system (104) has failed the diagnosis if either the torque or the exhaust gas temperature or both of the internal combustion engine (160) are below the respective specified threshold values. [7] Method (200) according to claim 1, further comprising: Determine (212) whether a gear shift is taking place in a transmission gear of the hybrid electric vehicle (100); the diagnostic process is stopped when the gear shift takes place in that gear. [8] A vehicle (100), comprising: a drive system (104) with: an internal combustion engine (160); and an electric motor (150); and a tax system (102) with: one or more sensors (120) configured to generate sensor data relating to the vehicle (100); wherein the one or more sensors (120) are further configured to enable at least the generation of additional sensor data during cold start emission reduction, wherein the additional sensor data include an internal combustion engine torque (160) and an internal combustion engine exhaust gas temperature (160); and a processor (132) coupled with one or more sensors (120) and configured to enable at least the following: Determine (208) whether cold start emission reduction is required, based on the sensor data; and Providing (210) an increase in the torque supplied by the electric motor (150) via instructions given by the processor (132) to the drive system (104) when it is determined that cold start emission reduction is required, Performing a diagnostic check of the drive system (104) via the processor (132) using the additional sensor data; Determine whether a traction control event, a stability control event, or both occur; and halt the diagnosis if the traction control event, the stability control event, or both occur.

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