Heating system for a tank head of an aftertreatment system and method for heating a tank head

Abstract

System comprising: a tank head (114) configured to be coupled to a reducing agent tank (116); a heater (113) located near the tank head, the heater being configured to heat at least one section of the tank head; and a controller (120) configured to perform a process comprising the following steps: accessing a parameter specifying the reducing agent flow through the tank head; using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter specifying the reducing agent flow through the tank head; comparing the estimated temperature with a threshold temperature; and activating the heater to heat the at least one section of the tank head in response to determining that the estimated temperature is below the threshold temperature.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REGISTRATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority over US patent application No. 16 / 031,190, filed on July 10, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The present application relates generally to the field of aftertreatment systems for internal combustion engines. BACKGROUND

[0003] In combustion engines, such as diesel engines, nitrogen oxide compounds (NOx) can be produced. x -compounds) are released in the exhaust gas. To reduce NO x -Emissions can be reduced by a selective catalytic reduction process (SCR process) to reduce NO xSCR converts oxidizing compounds into neutral compounds such as diatomic nitrogen, water, or carbon dioxide using a catalyst and a reducing agent. The catalyst may be enclosed in a catalyst chamber of an exhaust system, such as that of a vehicle or power generation unit. A reducing agent, such as ammonia anhydride or urea, is typically introduced into the exhaust stream upstream of the catalyst chamber. To introduce the reducing agent for the SCR process into the exhaust stream, an SCR system may meter or otherwise deliver the reducing agent through an upstream injector that atomizes or sprays the reducing agent into an exhaust pipe of the exhaust system upstream of the catalyst chamber. The SCR system may include one or more sensors to monitor conditions within the exhaust system. SUMMARY

[0004] The implementations described herein relate to temperature estimation and heating of a component, such as a tank head, in an internal combustion engine system. One implementation refers to a system comprising a tank head and a heating mechanism. The tank head is configured to connect to a reducing agent tank. The heating mechanism is located near the tank head and configured to heat at least a section of the tank head. In some implementations, the tank head includes a line configured to carry reducing agent from the reducing agent tank and a connection point configured to receive reducing agent from the reducing agent tank. In some implementations, the system further includes a metering pump module configured to supply the reducing agent from the reducing agent tank to the line.In some implementations, the system also includes a sensor that is thermally coupled to the tank head.

[0005] In some implementations, the system further includes a controller. The controller is configured to execute a process comprising accessing a parameter, calculating a tank head temperature using the parameter, comparing the calculated temperature to a threshold temperature, and activating the heating mechanism to heat at least one section of the tank head in response to the comparison. In some implementations, the controller is further configured to execute a process comprising accessing a parameter specifying the reducing agent flow rate through the tank head, where calculating the tank head temperature involves using a thermal model to estimate the tank head temperature using the parameter specifying the reducing agent flow rate through the tank head.In some implementations, the controller is further configured to execute a process that includes accessing a parameter specifying the ambient air temperature or ambient air velocity, where calculating the tank head temperature involves using a thermal model to estimate the tank head temperature using the parameter specifying the ambient air temperature or ambient air velocity. In some implementations, the controller is further configured to execute a process that includes determining that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature and disabling the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to this determination.

[0006] Another implementation relates to a method for the controlled heating of a tank head. This method involves accessing a parameter, calculating, by a controller, the temperature of the tank head using this parameter, comparing, by the controller, the calculated temperature with a threshold temperature, and activating a controlled heating process for the tank head in response to this comparison. The controlled heating process includes activating a heater to heat the tank head.In some implementations, the method further includes accessing a parameter specifying the reducing agent flow rate through the tank head, wherein calculating the tank head temperature involves using a thermal model to estimate the tank head temperature using the parameter specifying the reducing agent flow rate through the tank head. In some implementations, the method further includes accessing a parameter specifying the ambient air temperature, wherein calculating the tank head temperature involves using a thermal model to estimate the tank head temperature using the parameter specifying the ambient air temperature.In some implementations, the procedure further includes accessing a parameter specifying the ambient air velocity, where calculating the tank head temperature involves using a thermal model to estimate the tank head temperature using the parameter specifying the ambient air velocity. In some implementations, the procedure further includes determining that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature and disabling the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to this determination.

[0007] In some implementations, calculating the tank head temperature involves using a value obtained from a sensor thermally coupled to the tank head. In some implementations, activating the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to comparing the calculated temperature to the threshold temperature involves determining that the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature. In some implementations, the controlled heating process uses inductive heating, where a heater is inductively coupled to a metal plate of the tank head. In some implementations, the controlled heating process uses a heat pump, where the heat pump transfers heat from another component of the system.In some implementations, activating the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to comparing the calculated temperature with the threshold temperature involves determining that the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature. In some implementations, the heating mechanism is a resistance heating coil, an inductive heater, or a heat pump. List of characters

[0008] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Further features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims, in which: Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary selective catalytic reduction system with an exemplary reducing agent supply system for an exhaust system; Fig. 2 a graphic of an exemplary reducing agent tank head for coupling with a reducing agent tank in a reducing agent supply system for an exhaust system; Fig. 3 is a flowchart that illustrates the calculation of a temperature of a component of a post-treatment system according to an exemplary implementation; and Fig. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates the activation of a controlled heating process for a tank head assembly according to an exemplary implementation.

[0009] It should be noted that some or all of the figures are schematic representations for illustrative purposes. The figures are provided to illustrate one or more implementations with the explicit understanding that they are not to be used to limit the scope of protection or the meaning of the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] More detailed descriptions of various concepts and implementations of methods, devices, and systems for reducing agent dosing follow. In particular, this disclosure describes the heating of a tank head coupled to a reducing agent tank. A tank head can be a lid or other component that closes an opening in the reducing agent storage tank through which a reducing agent supply line or other components (e.g., reducing agent quality sensor, reducing agent level sensor, temperature sensor, heating element, etc.) can be routed. Various heating strategies can be implemented both for heating the tank head and for heating additional components of a post-treatment system.Heating the tank head, as well as heating additional components of an aftertreatment system, can be implemented using a controller to regulate heating elements during operation. The various concepts presented above and described in detail below can be implemented in numerous ways, as they are not limited to a single implementation method. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. Overview

[0011] In some implementations of a post-treatment system, a metering pump module may be incorporated to pump reducing agent from a reducing agent storage tank to an injector using a tank head coupled to the storage tank. A tank head can be a lid or other component that seals an opening in the reducing agent storage tank through which a reducing agent supply line or other components (e.g., reducing agent quality sensor, reducing agent level sensor, temperature sensor, heating element, etc.) can pass. The reducing agent supply system may employ heating strategies for sections of the system, including the tank head, to assist the system in cold ambient conditions. Overview of the post-treatment system

[0012] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of an aftertreatment system for an exhaust system. The aftertreatment system can include a particulate filter, for example a diesel particulate filter (DPF). 102 , a reactor tube or a decomposition chamber 104 , an SCR catalyst 106 and a sensor 150 include.

[0013] The DPF 102 It is configured to remove particulate matter, such as soot, from exhaust gas flowing in the exhaust system. The DPF 102 includes an inlet through which the exhaust gas enters and an outlet through which the exhaust gas exits, after particulate matter has been substantially filtered from the exhaust gas and / or particulate matter has been converted into carbon dioxide.

[0014] The decomposition chamber 104It is configured to convert a reducing agent, such as urea, aqueous ammonia solution, or diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), into ammonia. A reducing agent feed system can be provided to supply the reducing agent to the decomposition chamber. 104 to dose. In some implementations, the reducing agent is added to the SCR catalyst. 106 The reducing agent droplets are injected upstream. They then undergo the processes of evaporation, thermolysis, and hydrolysis to form gaseous ammonia within the exhaust system. The decomposition chamber 104 closes an inlet in fluid connection with the DPF 102 , in order to absorb the exhaust gas, the NO x -emissions, as well as an outlet for the exhaust gas, NO x -Emissions, ammonia and / or remaining reducing agent for flow to the SCR catalyst 106 a.

[0015] The reducing agent supply system can have one or more reducing agent tanks.116 include those that are structured to store a reducing agent and that are fluidically connected to an injector 112 are coupled, which is connected to the decomposition chamber 104 is mounted so that the injector 112 The reducing agent can be metered into the exhaust gases flowing in the exhaust system. In some implementations, the reducing agent supply system may include a pump module. 118 include the reducing agent from the reducing agent tank 116 for the supply to the injector 112 to pressurize the reducing agent tank 116 can a tank head 114 Include a channel through which a reducing agent supply line or other components (e.g., reducing agent quality sensor, reducing agent level sensor, temperature sensor, heating element, etc.) can be routed. The reducing agent tank 116 can be accessed via the tank head 114 at a pump inlet in fluid connection with the pump module118 stand and the injector 112 is located at a pump outlet in fluid contact with the pump module 118 In some implementations, the injector can 112 include an outlet for a return line to connect to the reducing agent tank. 116 to stand. Thus, reducing agent can also be taken from the reducing agent tank. 116 pumped and through the injector 112 and back into the reducing agent tank via the return line 116 The system can circulate reducing agent from the reducing agent tank. In some implementations, the system can supply reducing agent from the reducing agent tank. 116 through the pump module 118 , the injector 112 and the return line circulates when the injector 112 No reducing agent is dosed into the exhaust system. In other implementations, the system can also draw reducing agent from the reducing agent tank. 116 through the pump module 118 , the injector 112and circulate the return line when the injector 112 Reducing agent is dosed into the exhaust system.

[0016] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of the reducing agent tank head. 114 A reducing agent supply line 202 is through a reducing agent tank cap 204 positioned through (i.e. through an opening in the reducing agent tank lid) 204 through). A reducing agent supply line connection 206 can be connected to one end of the reducing agent supply line 202 be coupled. The reducing agent supply line connection 206 is outside the reducing agent storage tank (e.g. the reducing agent tank) 116 ) arranged, to which the reducing agent tank head 114 is coupled.

[0017] The reducing agent is formulated in such a way that it prevents the decomposition of the components of the exhaust gas (e.g., NO contained in the exhaust gas). x-gases). Any suitable reducing agent may be used. In some embodiments, the exhaust gas comprises diesel exhaust, and the reducing agent comprises diesel exhaust fluid. The diesel exhaust fluid may, for example, comprise urea, an aqueous urea solution, or any other fluid comprising ammonia, by-products, or any other diesel exhaust fluids known from the prior art (e.g., the diesel exhaust fluid marketed under the name ADBLUE®). The reducing agent may, for example, comprise an aqueous urea solution with a specific urea-to-water ratio. In particular embodiments, the reducing agent may comprise an aqueous urea solution containing 32.5 wt.% urea and 67.5 wt.% deionized water, or 40 wt.% urea and 60 wt.% deionized water, or any other suitable urea-to-deionized water ratio.The aqueous nature of the reducing agent can cause it to freeze at low temperatures, for example below -11 degrees Celsius.

[0018] The SCR catalyst 106 is configured to reduce NO x -to contribute to emissions by reducing NO x -Reduction process between ammonia and NO x The conversion of the exhaust gas into diatomic nitrogen, water and / or carbon dioxide is accelerated. The SCR catalyst 106 closes an inlet in fluid communication with the decomposition chamber 104 , from which exhaust gas and reducing agent are received, as well as an outlet in fluid connection with one end of the exhaust system.

[0019] The exhaust system can also include an oxidation catalyst, for example a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC), in fluid connection with the exhaust system (e.g. the SCR catalyst). 106 downstream or the DPF 102upstream), to oxidize hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas.

[0020] In some implementations, the DPF 102 behind the reactor tube or the decomposition chamber 104 be positioned. For example, the DPF 102 and the SCR catalyst 106 in a single unit, such as a DPF with SDPF coating (SDPF). In some implementations, the injector can 112 instead, it may be located downstream of a turbocharger or upstream of a turbocharger.

[0021] The sensor 150 It can be coupled to the exhaust system to detect the condition of the exhaust gas flowing through it. In some implementations, the sensor can 150 have a section located within the exhaust system, e.g., a tip of the sensor 150 protrude into a section of the exhaust system. In other implementations, the sensor can150 Exhaust gas is received through another pipe, such as a sampling tube extending from the exhaust system. While the sensor 150 is shown as being behind the SCR catalyst 106 Since the sensor is positioned downstream, it goes without saying that the sensor 150 at any other position in the exhaust system, including the DPF 102 upstream, within the DPF 102 , between the DPF 102 and the decomposition chamber 104 , within the decomposition chamber 104 , between the decomposition chamber 104 and the SCR catalyst 106 , within the SCR catalyst 106 or the SCR catalyst 106 It can be positioned downstream. Additionally, two or more sensors can be used. 150 They can be used to detect the condition of the exhaust gas, such as two, three, four, five or six sensors. 150 , where each sensor 150located at one of the previously mentioned positions in the exhaust system. heating system

[0022] The post-treatment system may include a heating system for warming one or more components of the reducing agent supply system. For example, the heating system may include a heating mechanism. 113 include to the tank head 114 to provide heat or thermal energy. In some implementations, the heating mechanism 113 configured to be enabled or disabled in response to a temperature comparison with the threshold temperature value. In some implementations, the heating mechanism 113 Configured to activate when the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature value. Activating or deactivating the heating mechanism. 113 This can include changing the value of a control parameter, such as setting it to 1 to activate the heating mechanism. 113and a 0 to deactivate the heating mechanism 113 Controlled heating processes, which are controlled by the heating mechanism 113 The methods used may include one or more of the following: resistance heating coils, microwave energy, inductive heating, chemical reactions, a heat pump to transfer heat from another part of the system, and the like.

[0023] The heating system can also use other heating mechanisms. 115 This includes heating various other components of the system. For example, the heating mechanisms can 115 Heat for the reducing agent tank 116 and / or the injector 112 provide. In some implementations, one or more of the other heating mechanisms are used. 115 the same controlled heating process as the heating mechanism 113 In some implementations, one or more of the other heating mechanisms are used. 115a different controlled heating process. tax system

[0024] A control system can, for example, take the form of one or more controllers. 120 They are provided to control various aspects of the post-treatment system. For example, the control can 120 electrically or communicatively with the injector 112 and the pump module 118 must be coupled and configured to use the injector 112 and / or the pump module 118 to control reducing agents in the decomposition chamber 104 to dose. The control 120 can control the operation of the pump module 118 control to remove reducing agent from the reducing agent tank 116 to pump via the pump inlet and reducer from the pump outlet at a desired flow rate using a pump frequency based on the linear relationship between flow rate and pump frequency to the injector112 to deliver. In some implementations, the control can 120 an input voltage to the pump module 118 and / or the injector 112 control to operate the pump module 118 and / or the injector 112 to control. In other implementations, the control can be 120 a data line to the pump module 118 and / or the injector 112 include, so that a parameter value is sent to the pump module 118 and / or the injector 112 for the internal control circuit of the pump module 118 and / or the injector 112 This information can be passed on to control their operation. Based on a desired dosing rate (e.g., a flow rate of reducing agent through a nozzle of the injector). 112 (into the exhaust system to reduce exhaust emissions) the control 120 an input voltage and / or pump frequency command to the pump module118 modify to achieve a desired flow rate from the dosing pump module 118 to achieve this. In implementations where the system includes the return line and circulates reducing agent, while reducing agent is drawn from the injector. 112 The flow rate from the outlet of the pump module can be dosed. 118 The flow rate can be increased or decreased to maintain a system flow rate when the dosing rate changes. That is, for a desired dosing rate, a desired reducing agent recirculation flow rate, and a measured pump outlet pressure (i.e., the resistance pressure), a desired pump outlet flow rate can be calculated.

[0025] The control 120 can also be configured to use one or more of the heating mechanisms 113 , 115to control in order to effect the provision of heat or thermal energy to one or more components of the aftertreatment system, e.g. the control can 120 be configured to operate the heating mechanisms 115 to control heat for the reducing agent tank 116 and / or the injector 112 to provide the control 120 can also be configured to control the heating mechanism 113 to control heat for the tank head 114 to provide the control 120 It can also be configured to receive temperature readings from one or more temperature sensors (e.g., temperature sensor). 117 , the one with the tank head 114 to receive (coupled) which are coupled with various components of the post-treatment system.

[0026] The control 120It can include a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc., or combinations thereof. The control 120 The memory may include, among other things, an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other data storage or transmission device capable of providing program instructions to a processor, ASIC, FPGA, etc. The memory may include a memory chip, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or other suitable memory from which the controller can derive program instructions. 120 It can read instructions. The instructions can include code from any suitable programming language.

[0027] In certain implementations, the control 120configured to perform certain operations, such as those described herein with regard to the Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 described. In certain implementations, the control 120 Represents a part of a processing subsystem that includes one or more computing devices with storage, processing, and communication hardware. In the control system... 120 It can be a single device or a distributed device, and the functions of the control 120 can be carried out by hardware and / or as computer commands on a non-volatile, computer-readable data storage medium.

[0028] In certain implementations, the control includes 120 one or more modules configured to operate the controller 120 To perform functionally. In certain implementations, the control can 120a heating control circuit and a system switch control circuit for carrying out the operation with reference to the Fig. The processes described in sections 3-4 are included. The description herein, including the circuits, emphasizes the structural independence of the control aspects. 120 and illustrates a possible grouping of operations and responsibilities of the control 120 Other groupings performing similar overall operations are to be considered included within the scope of this application. Circuits may be implemented in hardware and / or as computer instructions on a non-volatile, computer-readable data storage medium, and circuits may be distributed across different hardware or computer-based components.

[0029] Exemplary and non-limiting circuit implementation elements include sensors providing any value specified herein, sensors providing any value that is a precursor to any value specified herein, datalink and / or network hardware including communication chips, oscillating crystals, communication links, cables, twisted-pair wiring, coaxial wiring, shielded wiring, transmitters, receivers and / or transmitter-receivers, logic circuits, hard-wired logic circuits, reconfigurable logic circuits in a specific non-volatile state configured according to the circuit specification, actuators including at least one electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, a solenoid, an operational amplifier, analog controls (springs, filters, integrators, adders, dividers,(amplification elements) and / or digital controls. Method for heating a component of a post-treatment system

[0030] Referring to Fig. Section 3 now presents a method or process for calculating the temperature of a component of a post-treatment system in a flowchart according to an exemplary implementation. The method can, for example, be implemented by a controller. 120 to be executed. In short, the procedure involves accessing parameters associated with the post-treatment system and calculating the temperature of a component of the post-treatment system.

[0031] Further referring to Fig. Section 3 and, in more detail, section 302, accesses parameters assigned to a post-treatment system. Parameters assigned to the post-treatment system can include measured values ​​from temperature sensors (e.g., from the temperature sensor). 117), which are coupled with components of the post-treatment system, including ambient air temperature, ambient air velocity, parameters indicating a reducing agent flow, and the like. In some implementations, a key switch parameter can be used as an activation condition for the process to start. That is, when a parameter indicating a switch-on or key switch event is set to the value 1 If the parameter is set to "on" or "key switch" event, the process can continue. If the parameter indicating an on / off or key switch event is set to a value of 0 or a non-1 value, the process terminates or is not executed.

[0032] Accessing parameters that specify measured values ​​from temperature sensors coupled with components of the aftertreatment system, ambient air temperature, ambient air velocity, parameters indicating a reducing agent flow, and the like, may include accessing a parameter value from a memory and / or other storage device, receiving a value from a sensor for the corresponding parameter, etc.

[0033] The temperature of a component of an aftertreatment system is calculated at 304. In some implementations, the component of the aftertreatment system is a tank head. 114 In some implementations, calculating the temperature of the tank head includes... 114 Receiving sensor readings from a temperature sensor 117 one that is connected to the tank head 114is coupled. In some implementations, when calculating a temperature, the readings from temperature sensors coupled to other components of the aftertreatment system, the ambient air temperature, the ambient air velocity, parameters specifying the airflow, and the like are used to determine a temperature or estimated temperature of the tank head. 114 to determine. A temperature sensor 117 can be used with one or more components of the tank head 114 be coupled. In some implementations, a temperature sensor may be 117 not with the tank head 114 not coupled, but with one or more components of the aftertreatment system that are connected to the tank head 114 are coupled, and a temperature reading from the tank head. 114 The temperature of the tank head can be calculated or estimated from one or more of these other temperature sensors.114 to determine. In some implementations, a thermal model can be used to determine the temperature of a component of the aftertreatment system (e.g., a tank head). 114 ) using parameters that determine the reducing agent flow through the tank head 114 Specify. In some implementations, a thermal model can be used to determine the temperature of a component of the aftertreatment system (e.g., a tank head). 114 ) to estimate using parameters that specify ambient air temperature and / or ambient air velocity.

[0034] Referring to Fig. 4 is a method or process for activating a controlled heating process for a tank head 114This is illustrated in a flowchart according to an exemplary implementation. In some implementations, another component, which is associated with or part of the post-treatment process, can be heated using the method. The method can, for example, be controlled by a controller. 120 to be executed. In short, the procedure involves accessing parameters assigned to an aftertreatment system and calculating the temperature of a tank head. 114 of the post-treatment system, comparing the calculated temperature with a threshold temperature and activating or deactivating a controlled heating process in response to the comparison.

[0035] Further referring to Fig.Section 4, and in more detail in section 402, addresses access to parameters associated with a post-treatment system. Parameters associated with the post-treatment system can include readings from temperature sensors connected to components of the post-treatment system, ambient air temperature, ambient air velocity, parameters indicating a flow of reducing agent, and the like. In some implementations, a key switch parameter can be used as an activation condition for the process to begin. That is, if a parameter indicating a key switch event is set to 1, the process can proceed. If the parameter indicating a key switch event is set to 0 or a non-1 value, the process terminates or does not run.

[0036] Accessing parameters that specify measured values ​​from temperature sensors coupled with components of the aftertreatment system, ambient air temperature, ambient air velocity, parameters indicating a reducing agent flow, and the like, may include accessing a parameter value from a memory and / or other storage device, receiving a value from a sensor for the corresponding parameter, etc.

[0037] The temperature of a tank head 114 a post-treatment system is used in 404 calculated. In some implementations, temperature readings from a sensor connected to the tank head are used when calculating a temperature. 114 coupled temperature sensor 117, the measured values ​​of other temperature sensors coupled with components of the aftertreatment system, the ambient air temperature, the ambient air velocity, parameters indicating the reducing agent flow rate, and the like are used to determine a temperature or estimated temperature of the tank head 114 to determine. A temperature sensor 117 can be used with one or more components of the tank head 114 be coupled. In some implementations, a temperature sensor may be 117 not with the tank head 114 not coupled, but with one or more components of the aftertreatment system that are connected to the tank head 114 are coupled, and a temperature reading from the tank head. 114 The temperature of the tank head can be calculated or estimated from one or more of these other temperature sensors. 114to determine. In some implementations, a thermal model can be used to determine the temperature of a component of the aftertreatment system (e.g., a tank head). 114 ) using parameters that specify the reducing agent flow through the tank head. In some implementations, a thermal model can be used to determine the temperature of a component of the aftertreatment system (e.g., a tank head). 114 ) to estimate using parameters that specify ambient air temperature and / or ambient air velocity.

[0038] The calculated temperature is compared to a threshold temperature at 406. In some implementations, if the calculated temperature of the tank head 114and / or another component associated with the aftertreatment system falls below a predetermined threshold, a controlled heating process of the component is implemented. If the temperature of the tank head... 114 If the temperature of a component and / or another component associated with the aftertreatment system is at or above the predetermined threshold, the controlled heating process of the component must not be implemented. In some cases, two or more predetermined thresholds may be used based on other parameters associated with the aftertreatment system or a vehicle connected to the aftertreatment system. A first predetermined threshold may correspond to an initial transition point, a second predetermined threshold to a second transition point, and so on.

[0039] A controlled heating process is initiated in response to the temperature comparison at408 activated or deactivated. In some implementations, if the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature, a controlled heating process can be activated. The controlled heating process can involve activating a heating mechanism. 113 of the tank head 114 and / or include an external heater to heat the tank head 114 to heat. Enabling or disabling the controlled heating process may involve changing the value of a control parameter, such as a 1 to enable the controlled heating process and a 0 to disable it. Controlled heating processes may include one or more of the following: using resistance heating coils, microwave energy, inductive heating, chemical reactions, a heat pump to transfer heat from another part of the system, and the like.

[0040] The term "controller" encompasses all types of equipment, devices, and machines for processing data, including, for example, a programmable processor, a computer, a system-on-a-chip or multiple systems, a portion of a programmed processor, or combinations thereof. The device may include a dedicated logic circuit, such as an FPGA or an ASIC. In addition to the hardware, the device may also include code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, such as code representing processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, a virtual machine, or a combination of one or more of these.The device and the execution environment can implement various different computing model infrastructures, such as distributed computing and lattice computing infrastructures.

[0041] A computer program (also known as a program, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be used in any form, such as a standalone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored in a section of a file that contains other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single dedicated file for the program in question, or in several coordinated files (e.g., files containing one or more modules, subroutines, or portions of code).

[0042] Although this patent specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to certain implementations. Certain features described in this patent specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented separately in multiple implementations or in any suitable subcombination.Although features may be described above in such a way that they are effective in certain combinations and may also initially be claimed as such, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be excluded from the combination, and the claimed combination may refer to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0043] Similarly, while operations in the drawings are depicted in a particular order, this should not be interpreted as requiring these operations to be performed in that specific order or sequentially, or as requiring all illustrated operations to be performed to achieve desirable results. Under certain circumstances, the separation of different system components in the implementations described above cannot be understood as a requirement for such separation in all implementations, and it should be clear that the described components and systems can generally be integrated into a single product or packaged in multiple products embodied on tangible media.

[0044] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "essentially," and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with their conventional and customary use by those skilled in the art in the field of this disclosure. It is obvious to the person skilled in the art reading this disclosure that these terms are intended to permit a description of certain described and claimed features without limiting the scope of protection of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms are to be interpreted as indicating that inessential or minor modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are to be considered as falling within the scope of protection of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.Additionally, it is noted that limitations of the claims in the event that the term "means" is not used therein are not to be interpreted as "means plus function" limitations under US patent law.

[0045] The terms "coupled," "connected," and the like, as used herein, mean the direct or indirect connection of two components. This connection can be stationary (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or detachable). This connection can be achieved by the two components, or the two components and any further intermediate components, being integrally formed as a single, unified body, or by the two components, or the two components and any further intermediate components, being attached to one another.

[0046] The terms “fluidically coupled” or “fluidly connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean that the two components or objects have a path formed between them in which a fluid, such as water, air, gaseous reducing agent, gaseous ammonia, etc., can flow, either with or without intervening components or objects. Examples of fluid couplings or configurations for enabling fluid connection may include pipes, channels, or any other suitable components for allowing a fluid to flow from one component to the other.

[0047] It is important to note that the design and arrangement of the system shown in the various exemplary implementations are merely illustrative and not limiting. It is intended that all changes and modifications falling within the spirit and / or scope of protection of the described implementations are protected. It is understood that some features are not necessary, and implementations lacking these features are considered to fall within the scope of the application, the scope of protection being defined by the following claims. When reading the claims, it should be assumed that the use of words such as "a," "a," "at least a," or "at least a section" does not imply any intention to limit the claim to only one subject matter, unless specifically stated otherwise in the claim.When the terms “at least one section” and / or “one section” are used, the subject matter may include one section and / or the entire subject matter, unless expressly stated otherwise. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 16031190

[0001]

Claims

[1] System, encompassing: a tank head configured to be coupled to a reducing agent tank; and a heating mechanism located near the tank head, wherein the heating mechanism is configured to heat at least one section of the tank head. [2] System according to claim 1, further comprising the reducing agent tank and wherein the tank head comprises: a line configured to carry reducing agent from the reducing agent tank, and a connection point configured to receive reducing agent from the reducing agent tank. [3] System according to claim 2, further comprising a metering pump module configured to supply the reducing agent from the reducing agent tank to the line. [4] System according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor which is thermally coupled to the tank head. [5] System according to claim 1, wherein the heating mechanism is a resistance heating coil, an inductive heater or a heat pump. [6] System according to claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to execute a process, comprising: Accessing a parameter; Calculating the temperature of the tank head using the parameter; Comparing the calculated temperature with a threshold temperature; and Activating the heating mechanism to heat at least one section of the tank head in response to comparing the calculated temperature with the threshold temperature. [7] System according to claim 6, wherein the control is further configured to perform a process comprising accessing a parameter specifying the reducing agent flow through the tank head, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter specifying the reducing agent flow through the tank head. [8] System according to claim 6, wherein the controller is further configured to perform a process comprising accessing a parameter specifying the ambient air temperature or ambient air velocity, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter specifying the ambient air temperature or ambient air velocity. [9] System according to claim 6, wherein activating the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to comparing the calculated temperature with the threshold temperature comprises determining that the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature. [10] System according to claim 6, wherein the controller is further configured to execute a process comprising: Determine that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature, and Disabling the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to determining that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature. [11] Method for controlled heating of a tank head, the method comprising: Accessing a parameter; Calculate, by means of a control, a temperature of the tank head using the parameter; By comparing the calculated temperature with a threshold temperature, the control system determines the temperature; Activating a controlled heating process for the tank head in response to the comparison of the calculated temperature with the threshold temperature, wherein the controlled heating process includes activating a heater to heat the tank head. [12] Method according to claim 11, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a value obtained from a sensor thermally coupled to the tank head. [13] Method according to claim 11, further comprising accessing a parameter that specifies the reducing agent flow through the tank head, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter that specifies the reducing agent flow through the tank head. [14] Method according to claim 11, further comprising accessing a parameter that specifies the ambient air temperature, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter that specifies the ambient air temperature. [15] Method according to claim 11, further comprising accessing a parameter that specifies the ambient air velocity, wherein calculating the temperature of the tank head comprises using a thermal model to estimate the temperature of the tank head using the parameter that specifies the ambient air velocity. [16] Method according to claim 12, wherein activating the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to comparing the calculated temperature with the threshold temperature comprises determining that the calculated temperature is below the threshold temperature. [17] Method according to claim 11, further comprising: Determine that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature, and Disabling the controlled heating process for the tank head in response to determining that the calculated temperature is at or above the threshold temperature. [18] Method according to claim 11, wherein the controlled heating process uses a resistance heating coil. [19] Method according to claim 12, wherein the controlled heating process uses inductive heating, wherein a heater is inductively coupled to a metal plate of the tank head. [20] Method according to claim 13, wherein the controlled heating process uses a heat pump, wherein the heat pump transfers heat from another component of the system.