Reductant supply system with a reductant pump

Abstract

A reductant delivery system configured for rapidly thawing reductants includes a reductant pump. The reductant pump includes a filter housing, a pump, a filter cartridge, a cover, and a start-up heater. The filter housing includes a filter head, a pump chamber, and a transfer channel. The cover is coupled to the filter head to define a filter head cavity. The pump provides reductant from the pump chamber to the transfer channel. The filter cartridge includes a filter cartridge cavity within the filter head cavity. The start-up heater is disposed within the filter cartridge cavity. The reductant delivery system further includes a reductant delivery system controller and a main tank that stores reductant and includes a lift pump and a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is communicatively coupled to the reductant delivery system controller.The reductant supply system control receives a signal from the temperature sensor.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 421061, filed October 31, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application generally relates to a reductant supply system including a reductant pump for providing reductant to an exhaust aftertreatment system for an internal combustion engine. BACKGROUND

[0003] In combustion engines, such as diesel engines, nitrogen oxide compounds (NO x ) are emitted in the exhaust gas. It may be desirable to reduce the NO x emissions, for example to comply with environmental regulations. To reduce NO xTo reduce emissions, a reductant can be injected into the exhaust gases through a reductant delivery system coupled to a dosing system within a vehicle system. The reductant enables the conversion of a portion of the exhaust gases into non-NO x -Emissions such as nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), which reduces NO x -Emissions can be reduced.

[0004] Reductant is stored in a tank and transported via supply lines. If stored at cold temperatures, the reductant in the tank and supply lines can freeze. A heater can be used to thaw the reductant. Heating the reductant can be a time-consuming and energy-consuming process, as the heater typically heats the entire volume of the tank. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In one embodiment, a diesel exhaust fluid system includes a reductant pump including a filter housing having an inlet chamber receiving reductant, a pump chamber coupled to the inlet chamber, receiving reductant from the inlet chamber and delivering the reductant to a transfer passage, an outlet passage, and a filter head. The reductant pump further includes a pump coupled to the filter housing, providing reductant to the transfer passage, and a filter cartridge including an upper endplate, a lower endplate, and a center tube surrounded by filter media, defining a filter cartridge cavity. A cover is included over the filter cartridge and is connected to the filter head.The reductant pump further includes a start-up heater positioned at least partially within the filter cavity and configured to heat the reductant in the filter cartridge cavity.

[0006] In another embodiment, a diesel exhaust fluid system includes a reductant delivery system. The reductant delivery system includes a main tank further including a main heater disposed within a main tank volume and configured to heat reductant, a lift pump configured to deliver reductant to a supply line, a temperature sensor configured to determine the temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume, and a starter tank. The starter tank further includes a starter tank body and a starter heater. The reductant delivery system further includes a reductant delivery system controller configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor and selectively activate the main lift pump. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements unless otherwise indicated, in which: Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary exhaust aftertreatment system; Fig. 2 is a schematic block diagram of a reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 3 is a schematic block diagram of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; Fig. 9 is a schematic block diagram of another reductant supply system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments; and Fig. 10 is a schematic block diagram of a portion of another reductant delivery system for an exhaust aftertreatment system according to various embodiments.

[0008] It will be understood that the figures are schematic representations for illustrative purposes. The figures serve to illustrate one or more embodiments, with the express proviso that the figures are not to be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] Below, various concepts relating to, and implementations of, methods, and apparatus for providing a reductant delivery system including a reductant pump are described in more detail. The various concepts presented above and explained in more detail below can be implemented in any number of ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular type of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. I. Overview

[0010] Combustion engines (e.g. diesel engines, etc.) produce exhaust gases that contain components such as NO x , N2, CO2 and / or H2O. In some applications, an exhaust aftertreatment system is used to add a reducing agent to the exhaust gas to reduce the NO x-reduce emissions in the exhaust gas. The reductant must be stored in a fluid tank (e.g., a reservoir, a DEF tank, etc.) within a reductant delivery system. The reductant delivery system pumps the reductant from the fluid tank and delivers it to the aftertreatment system.

[0011] For a reductant delivery system to deliver reductant to the exhaust gases, it is desirable for the reductant to be in liquid form, which requires the reductant temperature to be above freezing (e.g., less than 12°F, less than -11°C, etc.). If the reductant is stored at or below freezing, the reductant may freeze within the fluid tank. If any portion of the reductant freezes, that portion of the reductant must be heated to convert from a solid to a liquid form before it can be delivered to the exhaust gas.

[0012] Various heating devices can be used to heat the reductant. However, it may be possible to heat the reductant more efficiently by providing an additional tank or chamber to isolate a smaller volume of reductant for heating within the reductant delivery system.

[0013] Some implementations herein are directed to a reductant delivery system that includes a reductant pump and is capable of rapidly thawing reductant before feeding it to the reductant pump. The reductant pump includes a filter housing coupled to a pump. The filter housing includes an inlet channel, a pump chamber, a transfer channel, an outlet channel, and a filter head. The reductant in the reductant pump flows through the inlet channel and into the pump chamber. The pump draws the reductant from the pump chamber and pushes the reductant into the transfer channel. The reductant pump further includes a filter cartridge having an upper endplate, a lower endplate, and a center tube defining a filter cartridge cavity in which filter media is disposed.The reductant pump further includes a cover coupled to the filter head, defining a filter head cavity. The filter head cavity includes a start-up heater for heating the reductant within the reductant pump.

[0014] Some implementations herein are also directed to a reductant delivery system including a main tank, a starting tank, and a reductant delivery system controller. The starting tank includes a starting tank body and a starting heater. The starting heater heats the reductant stored in the starting tank body. The main tank includes a main tank body, a main heater, a lift pump, and a temperature sensor. The main heater heats the reductant stored in the main tank body. The temperature sensor provides a signal to the reductant delivery system controller associated with the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank. The reductant delivery system controller determines a temperature of the reductant based on the received signal.The reductant supply system controller causes the lift pump to supply reductant to the reductant pump based on the temperature. The reductant supply system controller may further operate the main heater based on the temperature. II. Overview of exhaust aftertreatment system

[0015] Fig. 1 shows an exhaust aftertreatment system 100 with an exemplary reductant delivery system 102 for an exhaust conduit system 104. The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 includes the reductant delivery system 102, a particulate filter 106 (e.g., a diesel particulate filter (DPF)), a decomposition chamber 108 (e.g., a reactor, a reactor tube, a conduit, etc.), and a catalyst element 110 (e.g., an SCR catalyst element, etc.).

[0016] The particulate filter 106 is configured (e.g., structured, capable, etc.) to remove particulates, such as soot, from the exhaust gases flowing through the exhaust conduit system 104. The particulate filter 106 includes an inlet where the exhaust gas is received and an outlet where the exhaust gas exits after the particulates have been substantially filtered from the exhaust gas and / or the particulates have been converted to carbon dioxide. In some embodiments, the particulate filter 106 may be omitted.

[0017] The decomposition chamber 108 is configured to receive the exhaust gas from the particulate filter 106 and a reducing agent (e.g., urea, diesel exhaust fluid (DEF, etc.), AdBlue ®, a urea-water solution (UWS), an aqueous urea solution (e.g., AUS32, etc.) from the reductant supply system 102. When the reductant is introduced into the exhaust gas, this can reduce the emission of undesirable components (e.g., NO x etc.) in the exhaust gas. The decomposition chamber 108 includes an inlet in fluid communication with the particulate filter 106 to remove the NO x -emissions containing exhaust gas, and an outlet so that exhaust gas, NO x emissions, ammonia and / or reducing agent can flow to the catalyst element 110.

[0018] The dosing arrangement 112 is fluidly coupled (e.g., fluidically configured to communicate, etc.) to a reductant source 114. The reductant source 114 may include multiple reductant sources 114. The reductant source 114 may, for example, be a diesel exhaust fluid tank containing AdBlue. ®A reductant pump 116 (e.g., supply unit, etc.) is used to pressurize the reductant from the reductant source 114 for delivery to the metering assembly 112. In some embodiments, the reductant pump 116 is pressure-controlled (e.g., controlled to achieve a target pressure, etc.). The reductant pump 116 includes a reductant filter 118. The reductant filter 118 filters (e.g., screens, etc.) the reductant before the reductant is delivered to the internal components (e.g., pistons, vanes, etc.) of the reductant pump 116. For example, the reductant filter 118 may inhibit or prevent the transfer of particulate matter (e.g., solidified reductant, contaminants, etc.) to the internal components of the reductant pump 116. In this way, the reductant filter 118 can enable long-lasting, desirable operation of the reductant pump 116.In some embodiments, the reductant pump 116 is coupled (e.g., attached, mounted, fixed, welded, etc.) to the chassis of a vehicle associated with the exhaust aftertreatment system 100.

[0019] The metering assembly 112 includes at least one injector 120. Each injector 120 is configured to meter the reductant into the exhaust gas (e.g., into the decomposition chamber 108, etc.) at an injection axis 119. The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 includes a mixer 121 (e.g., a swirl generator, a vane plate, an inlet plate, a baffle plate, etc.). At least a portion of the mixer 121 may be disposed within the decomposition chamber 108. However, at least a portion of the mixer 121 may also be disposed in a conduit of the exhaust conduit system 104 (e.g., in a conduit upstream of the decomposition chamber 108, etc.). The mixer 121 is configured to receive exhaust gas from the decomposition chamber 108 and reductant from the injector 120 such that the injection axis 119 extends into the mixer 121. The mixer 121 is also configured to facilitate mixing of the exhaust gases and the reductant.The mixer 121 is configured to enable swirling (e.g., swirling, rotation, etc.) of the exhaust gas and mixing (e.g., combining, etc.) of the exhaust gas and the reductant to distribute the reductant within the exhaust gas downstream of the mixer 121. By distributing the reductant in the exhaust gas (e.g., to achieve a higher uniformity index, etc.) using the mixer 121, the reduction of the emission of undesirable components in the exhaust gas is improved or a temperature of the exhaust gas may be increased.

[0020] While the injection axis 119 extends into the mixer 121, the injection axis 119 may extend into the mixer 121 at an angle relative to a central axis of the mixer 121. In some embodiments, the injection axis 119 may, for example, coincide with a central axis of the mixer 121. In other embodiments, the injection axis 119 may be perpendicular to the central axis of the mixer 121. In another embodiment, the injection axis 119 may be parallel to the central axis of the mixer 121.

[0021] In some embodiments, the injector 120 is not directly coupled to the mixer 121. In these embodiments, the injector 120 and the mixer 121 may each be coupled to the same component (e.g., plate, chamber, etc.). In other embodiments, the injector 120 is directly coupled to the mixer 121. In these embodiments, the injector 120 and the mixer 121 may each be coupled to the same component. In some embodiments, the injector 120 is not disposed within the mixer 121. In other embodiments, the injector 120 may be at least partially disposed within the mixer 121.

[0022] In some embodiments, the reductant delivery system 102 also includes an air pump 122. In these embodiments, the air pump 122 draws air from an air source 124 (e.g., air intake, etc.) and through an air filter 126 located upstream of the air pump 122. Further, the air pump 122 provides the air via a conduit to the metering assembly 112. In these embodiments, the metering assembly 112 is configured to mix the air and the reductant into an air-reductant mixture and provide the air-reductant mixture to the decomposition chamber 108. In other embodiments, the reductant delivery system 102 does not include the air pump 122 or the air source 124. In such embodiments, the metering assembly 112 is not configured to mix the reductant with air.

[0023] The dosing assembly 112 and the reductant pump 116 are also electrically or communicatively connected to a reductant delivery system controller 128. The reductant delivery system controller 128 controls the dosing assembly 112 to meter the reductant into the decomposition chamber 108. The reductant delivery system controller 128 may also control the reductant pump 116.

[0024] The reductant delivery system controller 128 includes a processing circuit 130. The processing circuit 130 includes a processor 132 and a memory 134. The processor 132 may include a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc., or combinations thereof. The memory 134 may include, but is not limited to, electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage or transmission devices capable of providing program instructions to a processor, ASIC, FPGA, etc. This memory 134 may be a memory chip, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or a memory chip.Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPA), flash memory, or any other suitable memory from which the reductant delivery system controller 128 can read instructions. The instructions may include code from any suitable programming language. The memory 134 may include various modules containing instructions configured to be implemented by the processor 132.

[0025] In various embodiments, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to communicate with a central controller 136 (e.g., engine control unit (ECU), engine control module (ECM), etc.) of an internal combustion engine having the exhaust aftertreatment system 100. In some embodiments, the central controller 136 and the reductant delivery system controller 128 are integrated into a single controller.

[0026] In some embodiments, the central controller 136 may communicate with a display device (e.g., screen, monitor, touchscreen, head-up display (HUD), indicator light, etc.). The display device may be configured to change its state in response to receiving information from the central controller 136. For example, the display device may be configured to change between a static state (e.g., displaying a green light, displaying a "SYSTEM OK" message, etc.) and an alarm state (e.g., displaying a flashing red light, displaying a "MAINTENANCE REQUIRED" message, etc.) based on a notification from the central control unit 136. By changing the state, the display device may provide a user (e.g., an operator, etc.) with an indication of a status (e.g., operation, maintenance required, etc.) of the reductant delivery system 102.

[0027] The decomposition chamber 108 is located upstream of the catalyst element 110. Consequently, the reducing agent is injected upstream of the catalyst element 110, so that the catalyst element 110 receives a mixture of reducing agent and exhaust gas. The reducing agent droplets undergo the processes of evaporation, thermolysis, and hydrolysis to produce non-NO x -Emissions (e.g. gaseous ammonia, etc.) within the exhaust pipe system 104.

[0028] The catalyst element 110 includes an inlet in fluid communication with the decomposition chamber 108, from which exhaust gas and reductant are received, and an outlet in fluid communication with one end of the exhaust conduit system 104.

[0029] The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 may further include an oxidation catalyst element (e.g., a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC)) in fluid communication with the exhaust conduit system 104 (e.g., downstream of the catalyst element 110 or upstream of the particulate filter 106) to oxidize carbon monoxide in the exhaust gas.

[0030] In some embodiments, the particulate filter 106 may be located downstream of the decomposition chamber 108. For example, the particulate filter 106 and the catalyst element 110 may be combined into a single unit. In some embodiments, the dosing assembly 112 may instead be located downstream of a turbocharger or upstream of a turbocharger.

[0031] The exhaust aftertreatment system 100 also includes a dosing mounting bracket 138 (e.g., mounting bracket, coupler, plate, etc.). The dosing mounting bracket 138 couples the dosing assembly 112 to a component of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100. The dosing mounting bracket 138 is configured to mitigate the transfer of heat from the exhaust gas flowing through the exhaust conduit system 104 to the dosing assembly 112. In this way, the dosing assembly 112 is able to operate more efficiently and desirably than other dosing assemblies that are unable to mitigate the transfer of heat. Furthermore, the dosing mounting bracket 138 is configured to support reliable installation of the dosing assembly 112. This can reduce the manufacturing costs associated with the exhaust aftertreatment system 100 and ensure repeatable, desirable installation of the dosing assembly 112.

[0032] In various embodiments, the dosing mounting bracket 138 couples the dosing assembly 112 to the decomposition chamber 108. In some embodiments, the dosing mounting bracket 138 couples the dosing assembly 112 to an exhaust conduit of the exhaust conduit system 104. For example, the dosing mounting bracket 138 may couple the dosing assembly 112 to an exhaust conduit of the exhaust conduit system 104 that is upstream of the decomposition chamber 108 or to an exhaust conduit of the exhaust conduit system 104 that is downstream of the decomposition chamber 108. In some embodiments, the dosing mounting bracket 138 couples the dosing assembly 112 to the particulate filter 106 and / or the catalyst element 110. The location of the dosing mounting bracket 138 may be varied depending on the application of the exhaust aftertreatment system 100.For example, the dosing mounting bracket 138 may be located further upstream in some exhaust aftertreatment systems 100 than in other exhaust aftertreatment systems 100. Furthermore, some exhaust aftertreatment systems 100 may include multiple dosing assemblies 112 and therefore may also include multiple dosing mounting brackets 138. III. Overview of the reducing agent supply system

[0033] Fig. 2 shows the reductant delivery system 102 according to various embodiments. The reductant delivery system 102 includes a main tank 202 (e.g., reductant tank, primary tank, etc.). The main tank 202 includes a main tank body 204. The main tank body 204 defines a main tank volume 206. The main tank body 204 is configured to store reductant within the main tank volume 206.

[0034] The main tank 202 further includes a main heater 208 (e.g., a heating element, etc.). In various embodiments, a portion of the main heater 208 is coupled to the main tank body 204. For example, a portion of the main heater 208 may be attached to the main tank body 204 (e.g., with a fastener, etc.). In other embodiments, no portion of the main heater 208 is coupled to the main tank body 204. Instead, a portion of the main heater 208 is coupled to an intermediate coupler (e.g., bracket, hanger, fitting, etc.) that is coupled to the main tank body 204. A portion of the main heater 208 is disposed within the main tank volume 206. The main heater 208 is configured to heat the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206. The main heating device 208 may be an electrical heating device (e.g., a resistance heater, a heating coil, etc.).), a heat exchanger (e.g. a fluid heat exchanger, a heating fluid circuit, etc.), a Peltier heater (e.g. a thermoelectric heater, etc.) or another heating device with a similar function.

[0035] The main tank 202 further includes a temperature sensor 210. In various embodiments, the temperature sensor 210 is positioned within the main tank body 204. For example, the temperature sensor 210 may be attached to the main tank body 204. In other embodiments, the temperature sensor 210 may be attached to other structures positioned within the main tank body 204. The temperature sensor 210 is configured to determine the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206. Further, the temperature sensor 210 is communicatively coupled to a reductant delivery system controller 128. The temperature sensor 210 is further configured to provide a signal associated with the determined temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume 206 to the processing circuitry 130 of the reductant delivery system controller 128.

[0036] As in Fig. 2, the main tank 202 also includes a lift pump 212 (e.g., a rotary pump, positive displacement pump, etc.). The lift pump 212 is coupled to the main tank body 204 and disposed within the main tank volume 206. The lift pump 212 may, for example, be attached to the bottom or a side of the main tank body 204. In some embodiments, the lift pump 212 may be coupled to the temperature sensor 210. For example, the lift pump 212 may be attached to the pressure side of the main tank body 204, and the temperature sensor 210 may be attached to the lift pump 212 such that the temperature sensor 210 is constantly in contact with the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206. In other embodiments, the lift pump 212 may be attached to the bottom of the main tank body 204 and the temperature sensor 210 may be coupled to a side of the main tank body 204 (e.g., the bottom or the side).The lift pump 212 is configured to pump warm reductant heated by the main heater 208. The reductant supply system further includes a supply line 214. A portion of the supply line 214 is positioned within the main tank body 204. The supply line 214 is coupled to the lift pump 212.

[0037] The reductant delivery system 102 also includes a starting tank 216 (e.g., reductant tank, secondary tank, etc.). The starting tank 216 includes a starting tank body 218. The starting tank body 218 defines a starting tank volume 220. The starting tank body 218 is configured to store reductant in the starting tank volume 220. The starting tank body 218 is coupled to the supply line 214. The lift pump 212 is configured to pump reductant from the main tank body 204 through the supply line 214. The supply line 214 is configured to supply reductant from the main tank body 204 to the starting tank body 218. The starting tank body 218 is configured to store a starting tank volume 220 of reductant.

[0038] The launch tank 216 further includes a launch heater 222 (e.g., a heating element, etc.). In various embodiments, a portion of the launch heater 222 is coupled to the launch tank body 218. For example, a portion of the launch heater 222 may be attached to the launch tank body 218 (e.g., with a fastener, etc.). In other embodiments, no portion of the launch heater 222 is coupled to the launch tank body 218. Instead, a portion of the launch heater 222 is coupled to an intermediate coupler that is coupled to the launch tank body 218. A portion of the launch heater 222 is disposed within the launch tank volume 220. The launch heater 222 is configured to heat the reductant stored within the launch tank volume 220. The launch heater 222 may be an electric heater, a heat exchanger, a Peltier heater, or other similar heating devices.

[0039] In some embodiments, the start tank 216 further includes a start pump 224 (e.g., a lift pump, pressure pump, etc.). The start pump 224 is attached to the start tank body 218. The start pump 224 is disposed within the reductant start tank volume 220. The reductant delivery system 102 further includes a start supply line 226 and a reductant pump 228. The start pump 224 is coupled to the start supply line 226. The start pump 224 is configured to supply reductant from the start tank body 218 to the start supply line 226. A portion of the start supply line 226 is disposed within the start tank body 218. The start supply line 226 is configured to supply reductant from the start tank body 218 to the reductant pump 228.

[0040] The reductant pump 228 is fluidly coupled to the start tank 216 through the start supply line 226. The reductant pump 228 includes an inlet 230 and an outlet 232. The inlet 230 is fluidly coupled to the start tank 216 through the start supply line 226. The inlet 230 is configured to receive reductant from the start tank body 218. The outlet 232 is configured to receive reductant that has circulated through the reductant pump 228.

[0041] The reductant supply system 102 further includes a dosing supply line 234. The outlet 232 is fluidly coupled to the dosing assembly 112 through the dosing supply line 234. The dosing supply line 234 is configured to supply reductant to the dosing assembly 112 from the outlet 232 of the reductant pump 228.

[0042] The reductant delivery system 102 further includes a return line 236. The dosing assembly 112 is fluidly coupled to the main tank 202 through the return line 236. The return line 236 is configured to return reductant from the dosing assembly 112 to the main tank volume 206. In some embodiments, the reductant delivery system 102 further includes a warm return line 238. The warm return line 238 is coupled to the return line 236. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to control the dosing assembly 112 to selectively deliver reductant to the start tank body 218. The dosing assembly 112 is configured to selectively return warm reductant through the warm return line 238 back to the start tank body 218.By returning warm reductant to the launch tank body 218, the reductant delivery system 102 can deliver reductant from the launch tank 216 without drawing reductant from the main tank volume 206 into the launch tank volume 220.

[0043] Additionally, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor 210, the lift pump 212, the reductant pump 228, the start pump 224, and the dosing assembly 112. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to receive the signal generated by the temperature sensor 210 associated with a temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is further configured to determine the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206 based on the signal. For example, the signal (e.g., resistance, infrared measurement, etc.) may be sent to the processing circuit 130 within the reductant delivery system controller 128. The memory 134 of the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to store a threshold temperature for the reductant.The threshold temperature may be determined by user input or otherwise stored in memory 134. The processor 132 of the processing circuit 130 is configured to determine the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206. For example, the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 determined by the processor 132 may be compared to a threshold reductant temperature stored in the memory 134. For example, the temperature sensor may detect the resistance between two diodes and transmit a reductant temperature value signal (e.g., temperature in °C, etc.) to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The processor 132 is configured to determine whether the reductant temperature value signal exceeds or meets the reductant temperature threshold.

[0044] The reductant delivery system controller 128 is further configured to control the lift pump 212, the reductant pump 228, and the dosing assembly 112 based on the determined temperature of the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206. For example, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may activate the lift pump 212 and the reductant pump 228 when the determined temperature of the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206 reaches or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold.If the reductant delivery system controller 128 determines that the temperature of the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206 does not meet or exceed the reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may deactivate the lift pump 212, activate the reductant pump 228, and be further configured to activate the metering assembly 112 to return the reductant to the start tank body 218.

[0045] Additionally, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to cause the lift pump 212 to deliver the reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220. For example, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may be configured to cause the lift pump 212 to deliver the reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220 based on the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206. For example, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may cause the lift pump 212 to shut down when the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206 is too low (e.g., when the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume is below a threshold), thereby preventing the delivery of reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220.The reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to prevent the delivery of reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220 so that the start tank volume 220 remains heated to a temperature that meets or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold.

[0046] If the reductant delivery system controller 128 further determines that the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume 206 reaches or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may activate the lift pump 212 to begin delivering reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220. According to this embodiment, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may be further configured to cause reductant to be continuously delivered from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220 to replenish the supply of warm reductant in the start tank volume 220.For example, in this embodiment, reductant is supplied from the main tank volume 206 to the start tank volume 220, so that the reductant must pass through the start tank volume 220 before being supplied to the dosing assembly 112. In other embodiments, the reductant supply system controller 128 may be configured to activate the lift pump 212 to begin supplying reductant from the main tank volume 220 to the reductant pump 228, so that the reductant bypasses the start tank 216.

[0047] Fig. 3 shows another embodiment of the reducing agent supply system 102. Fig. 3 shows the reductant delivery system 102, which includes the main tank 202, the start tank 216, and the reductant pump 228, according to some embodiments. The start tank 216 is disposed within the main tank body 204. The start tank 216 defines the start tank volume 220, which is located within the main tank volume 206. In some embodiments, the start heater 222 and the main heater 208 may be combined into a single heater. In other embodiments, the start heater 222 may be attached to the main heater 208. The main heater 208 may be attached to the main tank body 204 and to the start tank body 218. The main heater 208 extends from the main tank body 204 through the main tank volume 206 and into the launch tank body 218. Thus, a portion of the main heater 208 may be disposed in the launch tank volume 220.In another embodiment, the heating device disposed within the launch volume 220 may instead be a separate launch heater 222. The separate launch heater may, for example, be attached to the launch tank body 218. The launch heater may extend into the launch tank volume 220. The launch heater is configured to heat the reductant stored in the launch tank body 218.

[0048] The starting tank volume 220 is fluidly coupled to the main tank volume 206. The starting tank 216 is configured to encapsulate the starting tank volume 220 of the reductant within the main tank volume 206. For example, the starting tank 216 may include thermally insulated walls (e.g., walls containing insulation, etc.) to concentrate the heat transfer from at least one of the starting heater 222, the main heater 208, and a combined individual heater such that the reductant stored in the starting tank volume 220 can be heated more quickly. The starting tank volume 220 is smaller than the main tank volume 206 to enable faster heating of the stored reductant.

[0049] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the launch tank 216 is isolated from the main tank volume 206. For example, the launch tank volume 220 may be fluidly coupled to the main tank volume 206 (e.g., through a transfer tube). In other embodiments, the launch tank body 218 may instead include openings to allow reductant to flow from the main tank volume 206 into the launch volume 220.

[0050] As in Fig. 3, the main tank 202 includes the lift pump 212. According to some embodiments, the lift pump 212 is attached to the main tank body 204 and may also be attached to the launch tank body 218. According to other embodiments, a portion of the lift pump 212 may be disposed within the launch tank volume 220. According to some embodiments, the lift pump 212 is configured to selectively deliver reductant from the main tank volume 206 and the launch tank volume 220 to the supply line 214. For example, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may be configured to activate the lift pump 212 based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor 210.The lift pump 212 may be activated to supply reductant only from the starting volume 220 if the reductant supply system controller 128 determines that the temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume 206 does not reach or exceed the reductant temperature threshold. Otherwise, the lift pump 212 may be activated to supply reductant from the main tank volume 206 if the reductant supply system controller 128 determines that the temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume 206 reaches or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold. According to another embodiment, the reductant supply system controller may activate the lift pump 212 to simultaneously draw reductant from both the starting tank volume 220 and the main tank volume 206.

[0051] According to another embodiment, the lift pump 212 may be positioned only within the main tank volume 206. For example, in some embodiments, the lift pump 212 is coupled to the main tank body 204 such that the lift pump is positioned only within the main tank volume 206. In other embodiments, a portion of the lift pump 212 may be positioned within the main tank volume 206, and another portion of the lift pump 212 may be positioned outside the main tank volume 206. In another embodiment, the lift pump 212 may be located outside the main tank volume 206. The lift pump 212 is configured to draw reductant from the main tank volume 206 only when activated by the reductant delivery system controller 128.

[0052] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the start pump 224 is positioned only within the start tank volume 220. In other embodiments, the start pump 224 may be positioned outside the start tank volume 220. For example, a portion of the start pump 224 may be positioned within the start tank volume 220 and another portion of the start pump 224 may be positioned outside the start tank volume 220. In another embodiment, the start pump 224 may be positioned outside the start tank volume 220. The start pump 224 is configured to draw reductant from the start tank volume 220 only when activated by the reductant delivery system controller 128. For example, the reductant delivery system controller may activate the start pump 224 when the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 does not reach or exceed the reductant temperature threshold.Instead, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may deactivate (e.g., deactivate, etc.) the start pump 224 and activate (e.g., activate, etc.) the lift pump 212 when the reductant in the main tank volume 206 reaches or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold. According to another embodiment, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may activate the start pump 224 and the lift pump 212 simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, the lift pump 212 and the start pump 224 may be a single pump.

[0053] The lift pump 212 and the start pump 224 are fluidly coupled to the reductant pump 228 via the supply line 214. According to some embodiments, the lift pump 212 and the start pump 224 are configured to pump reductant from the main tank volume 206 and the start tank volume 220 into the supply line 214. The supply line 214 is configured to supply reductant from the main tank volume 206 and the start tank volume 220 to the inlet 230 of the reductant pump 228. Furthermore, the metering assembly 112 is fluidly coupled to the main tank body 204 and the start tank body 218 through the return line 236. The return line 236 is configured to selectively return the reductant to the main tank volume 206. The reductant supply system 102 may include an optional warm line 302. The optional warm line 302 is connected to the return line 236.The optional warm line is also coupled to the main tank body 204 and the launch tank body 218. A portion of the optional warm line 302 is positioned within the main tank volume 206 and extends such that another portion of the optional warm line 302 is positioned within the launch tank volume 220. The optional warm line 302 is configured to return reductant to the launch tank volume 220 when the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 does not reach or exceed the reductant threshold temperature, as determined by the reductant delivery system controller 128.For example, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to activate the dosing assembly 112 to return warm reductant through the optional warm line 302 back to the start tank volume 220 upon determining that the main tank volume 206 does not meet or exceed the reductant temperature threshold.

[0054] Fig. 4-6 show the starting tank 216 and the reductant pump 228 as incorporated into various previously shown reductant delivery systems 102. The embodiment of Fig. Figure 4 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the reductant pump 228 used in the Fig. 2. The reductant pump 228 is fluidly coupled to the launch tank 216 through the launch supply line 226. In various embodiments, the launch tank 216 may be positioned proximate the reductant pump 228, thereby shortening the length of the launch supply line 226.

[0055] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the start-up pump 224 is configured to purge the start-up supply line 226 (e.g., purge reductant, not store reductant when the system is off, etc.) to prevent the reductant from stagnating and freezing in the line. For example, the start-up pump may be configured to draw reductant from the start-up supply line 226 back to the start-up tank volume 220. Purging the start-up supply line 226 may reduce the time required to thaw the reductant in the reductant delivery system 102. The start-up tank 216 includes the start-up tank body 218, which defines the start-up tank volume 220. The start-up tank includes the start-up pump 224, which is disposed within the start-up tank volume 220. The start pump 224 is configured to pump reductant from the start tank volume 220 into the start supply line 226.The start supply line 226 is configured to supply reductant from the start tank body to the inlet 230 of the reductant pump 228.

[0056] The reductant pump 228 further includes a reductant pump body 402. The reductant pump body 402 includes a filter housing 404. The inlet 230 is configured to supply reductant from the start supply line 226 to the reductant pump body 402. The filter housing 404 includes a filter head 406. The reductant pump 228 further includes a filter cartridge 408. The filter cartridge 408 is positioned within the filter housing 404. The filter cartridge 408 includes an upper end plate 410, a lower end plate 412, and a center tube 414. The upper end plate 410 is coupled to the filter head 406. The lower end plate 412 is disposed opposite the upper end plate 410. The center tube 414 is coupled to the upper end plate 410 and the lower end plate 412. The filter cartridge 408 further includes a filter cartridge cavity 416.Together, the upper end plate 410, the lower end plate 412, and the center tube 414 form the filter cartridge cavity 416. The filter cartridge cavity 416 contains a filter media 418. The filter media 418 is configured to trap debris or other particles (gravel, dust, etc.) in the reductant to support the proper function and longevity of the reductant pump 228. The filter cartridge 408 is configured to be removable and replaceable. For example, a new filter cartridge 408 can be placed in the filter cartridge cavity 416 after a period of time to ensure proper filtration of the reductant.

[0057] As in Fig. 4, the reductant pump 228 further includes a cover 420 and a filter head cavity 422. The cover 420 is connected to the filter head 406 to define the filter head cavity 422. The cover 420 is disposed over the filter cartridge 408. The filter head cavity 422 extends between the cover 420 and the lower end plate 412.

[0058] Fig. 5 shows the reducing agent pump 228 according to another exemplary embodiment. Fig. The embodiment of the reductant pump 228 shown in Figure 5 further includes a starter heater 502. The starter heater 502 is attached to the filter head 406. A portion of the starter heater 502 is positioned within the filter cartridge cavity 416. For example, the starter heater 502 may be positioned within the center tube 414 of the filter cartridge 408. The starter heater 502 is configured to radiate heat outward through the filter media 418 and into the filter head cavity 422. As heat radiates outward from the starter heater 502, the reductant within the filter head cavity 422 may be heated as it moves upward through the filter media 418 and the center tube 414.

[0059] Fig. 6 shows the reductant pump 228 according to another embodiment. The reductant pump 228 includes a reductant tank body 602 and an additional starting volume 604. The additional starting volume 604 is positioned within the filter head cavity 422. The additional starting volume 604 is heated by the starting heater 502. The additional starting volume 604 may store a small amount of reductant compared to the main tank volume 206. For example, the additional starting volume 604 may be at least 0.5% of the main tank volume 206 and at most 8% of the main tank volume 206. The reductant in the additional starting tank 216 may be heated more quickly than the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206, so that the engine can be started more quickly in cold temperatures (e.g., below freezing, etc.).Furthermore, the additional starting volume 604 can be positioned within the filter head cavity 422 and drawn through the filter media 418. The filter media 418 is configured to capture any contaminants in the reductant to prevent damage to the reductant delivery system 102. The reductant then flows upward through the center tube 414 and out the outlet 232 of the reductant pump 228. According to this embodiment, the reductant pump 228 is integrated with the starting tank 216 so that the reductant pump can store the reductant in the additional starting volume 604. Because the starting tank 216 is integrated with the reductant pump 228 so that the reductant pump 228 can store the additional starting volume 604, the space required and the number of contact points within the reductant delivery system 102 are reduced.

[0060] Fig. 7 shows a top-down cross-sectional view of a reductant pump 228. The reductant pump 228 of the reductant delivery system 102 includes a reductant pump body 700, an inlet 230, an inlet channel 702, and a filter channel 704. The inlet channel 702 is coupled to the supply line 214 and the inlet 230. The inlet 230 is also coupled to the filter channel 704. The inlet channel 702 is configured to receive reductant from the supply line 214 and direct the reductant through the inlet 230 to the filter channel 704. A portion of the filter channel 704 is disposed within the reductant pump body 700, and another portion of the filter channel 704 is positioned within the filter housing 404. The filter channel 704 contains a first filter 706. The first filter 706 (e.g., a 190-micron filter, etc.) is configured to filter large contaminants from the reductant as it flows into the reductant pump body 700 and the filter housing 404.

[0061] The filter housing 404 further includes a pump chamber 708. The pump chamber 708 includes a pump inlet channel 710, a pump plate suction check valve 712, a pump plate 714, and a pump 716. The filter channel 704 is configured to supply reductant to the pump chamber 708. The filter channel 704 is coupled to the pump inlet channel 710. A portion of the pump inlet channel 710 is positioned within the filter housing 404, and another portion of the pump inlet channel 710 is positioned within the pump chamber 708. The pump inlet channel 710 is configured to receive reductant from the filter channel 704 and supply the reductant to the pump plate suction check valve 712. The pump plate suction check valve 712 is coupled to the pump plate 714. The pump plate suction check valve 712 (e.g. a one-way valve etc.) is configured to allow the reductant to flow through the pump plate 714 and prevent the reductant from flowing back through the pump plate suction check valve 712 and back into the pump inlet channel 710.

[0062] The reductant pump 228 further includes a first plate channel 718, a diaphragm 720, and a second plate channel 722. The first plate channel 718 is configured to receive reductant from the pump plate suction check valve 712. The pump 716 is configured to draw reductant through the first plate channel 718 and push the reductant downward through the second plate channel 722. The pump plate suction check valve 712 is fluidly coupled to the first plate channel 718. A portion of the first plate channel 718 is disposed within the pump plate 714.

[0063] The diaphragm 720 is coupled to the pump plate 714. The diaphragm 720 is configured to operate between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the diaphragm 720 is configured to receive reductant from the first plate channel 718 and supply reductant to the second plate channel 722. A portion of the second plate channel 722 is disposed within the pump plate 714. In the second position, the diaphragm 720 is configured to prevent reductant from flowing from the first plate channel 718 to the second plate channel 722. The diaphragm 720 is configured to create suction to draw the reductant through the pump plate 714 via the first plate channel 718.

[0064] The pump chamber 708 further includes a pressure check valve 724, an outlet chamber 726, and an outlet channel 728. The pressure check valve 724 is fluidly coupled to the second plate channel 722. The pressure check valve 724 is configured to receive reductant from the second plate channel 722. Furthermore, the pressure check valve 724 is configured to prevent reductant from flowing back through the second plate channel 722. From the pressure check valve 724, the reductant flows into the filter head cavity 422, where it is heated by the start-up heater 502. The reductant then flows upward through the center tube 414. The outlet chamber 726 is coupled to the center tube 414 and to the outlet 232. The outlet channel 728 is coupled to the outlet 232. The center tube 414 is configured to carry filtered reductant from the filter head cavity 422 to the outlet chamber 726.The outlet chamber 726 is configured to carry reductant from the center tube 414 through the outlet 232 to the outlet port 728.

[0065] Fig. Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the reductant pump 228 according to an exemplary embodiment. The reductant pump 228 includes a pump motor 802 (e.g., an electric motor, a servo motor, etc.), a piston 804, and a transfer channel 806. The pump motor 802 is positioned within the pump chamber 708. According to some embodiments, the pump motor 802 is coupled to the pump plate 714. The pump motor 802 is coupled to the piston 804 and coupled to the diaphragm. The piston 804 is also coupled to the diaphragm 720.

[0066] The diaphragm 720 is configured to pull reductant up through the pump plate 714 through the first plate channel 718. The diaphragm 720 is further configured to pump the reductant back down through the pump plate 714 through the second plate channel 722. The pump motor 802 is configured to reposition the piston 804. The piston 804 is configured to move the diaphragm 720 from the first position to the second position. For example, the pump motor 802 repositions the piston 804. For example, the piston 804 can be repositioned vertically such that the piston 804 is moved to a higher position, thereby pulling the diaphragm 720 upward. The upward movement of the diaphragm 720 draws the reductant through the first plate channel 718. Further, the pump motor 802 repositions the piston 804 a second time so that the piston 804 is moved vertically to a lower position.The downward movement of the piston 804 pushes the diaphragm 720 downward. The downward movement of the diaphragm pushes the reductant through the second plate channel 722. The transfer channel 806 is coupled to the second plate channel 722. A portion of the transfer channel 806 is positioned within the pump chamber 708, and another portion of the transfer channel 806 is positioned within the filter head cavity 422. The second plate channel 722 is configured to carry the reductant from the first plate channel 718 to the transfer channel 806. The transfer channel 806 is configured to carry reductant from the second plate channel 722 to the filter head cavity 422.

[0067] Fig. 9 shows a reductant delivery system 102 according to another exemplary embodiment. The reductant delivery system 102 includes the main tank 202, with the main tank body 204 configured to store the main tank volume 206 of reductant for a diesel engine. The main tank 202 includes the main heater 208 disposed within the main tank volume 206. According to some embodiments, the main heater 208 includes a main heater housing 902. The main heater housing 902 is positioned around the main heater 208. The main heater housing 902 is configured to prevent direct contact of the main heater 208 with the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206.

[0068] According to other embodiments, the main heater 208 is sealed (e.g., liquid-tight, etc.). For example, the main heater 208 may be sealed such that the main heater 208 is configured to directly contact the reductant in the main tank volume 206. Furthermore, the main tank 202 includes the lift pump 212, which is configured to pump the reductant from the main tank volume 206 via the supply line 214 to the reductant pump 228. In some embodiments, the main tank lift pump 212 is positioned on the pressure side of the main tank 202.

[0069] The temperature sensor 210 is configured to determine the temperature of the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206. The temperature sensor 210 is further configured to communicate the temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume 206 to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The reductant delivery system controller 128 includes the memory 134 configured to store a reductant temperature threshold. In some embodiments, the reductant temperature threshold may be a user-defined value. In other embodiments, the reductant temperature threshold may be hard-coded into the memory 134. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to receive the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 from the temperature sensor 210.The reductant delivery system controller 128 is further configured to determine whether the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 meets or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold for the reductant delivery system 102.

[0070] The reductant delivery system 102 further includes a first selector valve 904. The first selector valve 904 is communicatively coupled to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is also communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor 210. The first selector valve 904 is fluidly coupled to the supply line 214 and fluidly coupled to the reductant pump 228. The supply line 214 is configured to deliver reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the first selector valve 904 (e.g., a main tank selector valve, etc.). The first selector valve 904 is configured to prevent or allow the passage of reductant from the main tank volume 206 into the supply line 214.In response to the reductant delivery system controller 128 determining that the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 meets or exceeds the reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to open the first selector valve 904 to allow the reductant to flow from the main tank volume 206 to the reductant pump 228. In response to the reductant delivery system controller 128 determining that the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 is below the reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to close the first selector valve 904.

[0071] According to some embodiments, the reductant delivery system 102 further includes a suction-side accumulator 906. The suction-side accumulator 906 is fluidly coupled to the first selector valve 904 through the supply line 214. The suction-side accumulator 906 is also fluidly coupled to the reductant pump 228. When the first selector valve 904 is in an open position, the suction-side accumulator 906 is configured to deliver a dose of reductant to the reductant pump 228 such that the reductant pump 228 does not overflow. The suction-side accumulator 906 is further configured to prevent backflow of reductant away from the reductant pump 228 and back into the main tank volume 206. 228.

[0072] Further, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is communicatively coupled to the integrated reductant pump 228. In response to the reductant delivery system controller 128 closing the first selector valve 904, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is further configured to communicate to the reductant pump 228 that the first selector valve 904 is in a closed position. When the first selector valve 904 is in a closed position, the reductant pump 228 is configured to draw reductant only from the additional starting volume 604 positioned within the filter head cavity 422.

[0073] According to this exemplary embodiment, the filter head cavity 422 is configured to have larger horizontal and vertical dimensions to store the additional starting volume 604. In other embodiments, the filter head cavity 422 is instead configured to have only a larger vertical dimension or only a larger horizontal dimension to store the additional starting volume 604.

[0074] The reductant delivery system further includes a pressure-side accumulator (e.g., a nitrogen bladder, etc.) 908. The pressure-side accumulator is coupled to the outlet channel 728 of the reductant pump 228. In some embodiments, the pressure-side accumulator 908 may be, for example, a nitrogen bladder pressure accumulator. The nitrogen bladder pressure accumulator 908 is configured to receive reductant from the reductant pump 228. The nitrogen bladder pressure accumulator 908 may include a rubber or elastomer bladder filled with nitrogen gas, which may be surrounded by reductant. The pressure of the nitrogen gas in the bladder may be exceeded by the volume of reductant introduced into the pressure-side accumulator 908.Once sufficient reductant has entered the pressure-side accumulator 908 to reach maximum pressure, the nitrogen in the bladder expands, forcing the reductant out of the pressure-side accumulator 908 and through the dosing supply line 234. The dosing supply line 234 is configured to supply the reductant to the dosing assembly 112. In other embodiments, the reductant supply system 102 may instead include a suction-side accumulator 906 and a pressure-side accumulator 908.

[0075] The dosing assembly 112 is coupled to the return line 236, which is configured to return reductant to the reductant delivery system 102 from the aftertreatment system 100. The reductant delivery system 102 further includes a second selector valve 910. The second selector valve 910 is coupled to the return line 236 and the optional warm line 302. The second selector valve 910 is communicatively coupled to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to receive a signal from the temperature sensor 210 associated with the reductant temperature of the main tank volume 206.In response to the reductant delivery system controller 128 determining that the temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume meets or exceeds a reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to open the second selector valve 910. In the open position, the second selector valve is configured to direct reductant from the dosing assembly 112 back to the main tank volume 206. In response to the reductant delivery system controller 128 determining that the temperature of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206 does not meet or exceed the reductant temperature threshold, the reductant delivery system controller 128 is configured to close the second selector valve.In the closed position, the second selector valve 910 is configured to supply reductant through the optional warm line 302 to the reductant pump 228. For example, the reductant pump 228 stores the warm reductant in the additional start volume 604.

[0076] According to an exemplary embodiment, Fig. 10 illustrates the main tank 202 of the reductant delivery system 102. The main tank 202 includes the main tank body 204, which defines the main tank volume 206. The main tank 202 further includes a main tank fill tube 912, a heating element 914, and a heater pot 916. The main tank fill tube 912 is coupled to the main tank body 204. A portion of the main tank fill tube 912 is positioned within the main tank volume 206. The main tank fill tube 912 is configured to open and close to allow a user to add reductant to the main tank volume 206.

[0077] The heating element 914 is coupled to the heating pot 916. The heating element 914 and the heating pot 916 are positioned within the main tank volume 206. The heating pot 916 is configured to store a freeze-resistant liquid that can be heated and circulated through the heating element 914. The heating element 914 is configured to heat the reductant stored within the main tank volume 206. According to other embodiments, the main tank 202 includes a main heating device 208, such as a heating rod or a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) heater, as previously described.

[0078] The main tank 202 further includes a temperature sensor 918 and a level sensor 920. The temperature sensor 918 and the level sensor 920 are positioned within the main tank volume 206. The level sensor 920 is attached to the main tank body 204 and communicatively coupled to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The temperature sensor 918 is coupled to the level sensor 920 and communicatively coupled to the reductant delivery system controller 128 (as shown in previous embodiments). The temperature sensor 918 is configured to determine a temperature of the reductant in the main tank volume 206. The temperature sensor 918 is further configured to communicate a temperature signal to the reductant delivery system controller 128. The level sensor 920 is configured to determine a level of the reductant stored in the main tank volume 206.The level sensor is further configured to communicate a level signal to the reductant delivery system controller 128. For example, according to some embodiments, the reductant delivery system controller 128 may use the level determined by the level sensor 920 to indicate to the user that the reductant level within the main tank volume 206 is below a level threshold.

[0079] The main tank 202 also includes a main tank feed pump 922 (e.g., a lift pump) and a suction pipe 924. According to this embodiment, the main tank feed pump 922 is coupled to the outside of the main tank body 204. In other embodiments, the main tank feed pump 922 may instead be positioned on the inside of the main tank body 204 or positioned within the main tank volume 206, as previously described. The main tank feed pump 922 is coupled to the suction pipe 924. The suction pipe 924 is configured to carry reductant from the main tank volume 206 to the main tank feed pump 922. The main tank feed pump 922 is fluidly coupled to the supply line 214 (e.g., a feed line). The main tank feed pump 922 is configured to draw reductant from the main tank volume 206 up the suction pipe 924.The main tank supply pump 922 is further configured to push reductant through the supply line 214 to supply reductant to the reductant pump 228, as previously described. IV. Configuration of exemplary embodiments

[0080] Although this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features described in this 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 in multiple implementations, separately or in any suitable subcombination.Furthermore, although features are described and even originally claimed as operating in certain combinations, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be taken out of the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

[0081] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "generally," "approximately," and similar terms have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage of those skilled in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure relates. Those skilled in the art who read this disclosure should understand that these terms are intended to facilitate description of certain described and claimed features, without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges specified. Accordingly, these terms should be construed to mean that inessential or inconsistent modifications or changes to the described and claimed subject matter will be considered within the scope of the invention as described in the appended claims.

[0082] The term "coupled" and the like, as used herein, means the connection of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such a connection may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or detachable). Such a connection may be achieved by the two components, or the two components and any additional intermediate components, being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another, with the two components, or with the two components and any additional intermediate components secured to one another.

[0083] The terms "fluidically coupled with" and the like, as used herein, mean that a path is formed between the two components or objects in which a fluid, such as air, exhaust gas, liquid reductant, gaseous reductant, aqueous reductant, gaseous ammonia, etc., can flow, either with or without intervening components or objects. Examples of fluid couplings or configurations for enabling fluid communication may include conduits, channels, or other suitable components that enable the flow of a fluid from one component or object to another.

[0084] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various systems shown in the various example implementations are only illustrative and not limiting. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit and / or scope of the described implementations are intended to be protected. It should be understood that some features may not be necessary, and implementations lacking the various features may be considered within the scope of the disclosure, which scope is defined by the following claims. When the phrase "a portion" is used, the element may include a portion and / or the entire element, unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0085] Furthermore, the term "or" is used in the context of a list of items in its inclusive sense (rather than its exclusive sense), so that the term "or" when used to join a list of items means one, some, or all of the items in the list. Conjunctive expressions such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless explicitly stated otherwise, are generally understood in context to mean that an item, term, etc., can be either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Therefore, such conjunctive language should not generally be understood to imply that particular embodiments require that at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z each be present, unless otherwise stated.

[0086] Furthermore, the use of value ranges (e.g., W1 to W2, etc.) here includes their maximum and minimum values ​​(e.g., W1 to W2 contains W1 and contains W2, etc.) unless otherwise specified. Furthermore, a value range (e.g., W1 to W2, etc.) does not necessarily require the inclusion of intermediate values ​​within the value range (e.g., W1 to W2 can only contain W1 and W2, etc.) unless otherwise specified. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 63 / 421061

[0001]

Claims

[1] Reducing agent pump, comprising: having a filter housing: an inlet channel configured to receive reducing agent, a pump chamber configured to receive the reducing agent from the inlet channel, a transfer channel configured to receive the reducing agent from the pump chamber, an outlet channel, and a filter head; a pump coupled to the filter housing and operable to cause the reducing agent in the pump chamber to be provided to the transfer channel; a filter cartridge comprising: an upper end plate defining an upper end plate opening, the upper end plate being coupled to the filter head such that the upper end plate opening is aligned with the outlet channel, a lower end plate opposite the upper end plate, a center tube coupled to the upper end plate and the lower end plate, the center tube defining a filter cartridge cavity, and Filter media positioned around the center tube and between the upper end plate and the lower end plate; a cover coupled to the filter head above the filter cartridge, the cover cooperating with the filter head to define a filter head cavity, the filter head cavity extending between the cover and the lower end plate; and a start-up heater having a portion positioned within the filter cartridge cavity and configured to heat the reductant within the filter cartridge cavity. [2] A reducing agent pump according to claim 1, wherein the pump further comprises: a pump plate positioned within the pump chamber, the pump plate comprising: a first plate channel configured to receive the reducing agent from the inlet chamber via the pump chamber, and a second plate channel configured to receive the reducing agent from the first plate channel and to provide the reducing agent to the transfer channel via the pump chamber; a diaphragm coupled to the pump plate via the first plate channel and the second plate channel, the diaphragm operable between: a first position in which the reducing agent is caused to flow from the first plate channel to the second plate channel, and a second position in which the reducing agent is prevented from flowing from the first plate channel to the second plate channel; a piston coupled to the diaphragm; and a motor coupled to the piston and configured to reposition the piston to cause the diaphragm to change between the first position and the second position. [3] Reductant supply system, comprising: the reducing agent pump according to claim 1; and an accumulator configured to: provides the reducing agent to the intake port, or receives the reducing agent from the exhaust port. [4] The reductant supply system of claim 3, further comprising a first selector valve coupled to the reductant pump, the first selector valve operable between: a first position in which the flow of the reducing agent to the inlet channel is prevented, and a second position in which the flow of the reducing agent to the inlet channel is permitted. [5] The reducing agent supply system of claim 3, further comprising: a main tank configured to provide the reductant to the reductant pump; and a second selector valve configured to receive the reductant from the reductant pump and provide the reductant to the main tank, the second selector valve operable between: a first position in which the flow of the reducing agent to the main tank is prevented; and a second position in which the flow of the reducing agent to the main tank is permitted. [6] The reducing agent supply system of claim 5, further comprising: a return line coupled to both the first selector valve and the second selector valve, wherein: the second selector valve is further operable in a third position in which flow of the reducing agent to the main tank is prevented and flow to the inlet port is permitted. [7] The reductant delivery system of claim 5, further comprising a main heater coupled to the main tank, the main heater configured to heat a portion of the reductant stored in the main tank. [8] The reductant pump of claim 1, further comprising a starting volume positioned with the filter head cavity and configured to store a volume of reductant between a range of 0.5% and 8% of a maximum volume of the main tank. [9] Reductant supply system, comprising: a main tank comprising: a main tank body configured to store reducing agent within a main tank volume, a main heating device configured to heat the reducing agent within the main tank volume, the main heating device having a portion coupled to the main tank body and / or disposed within the main tank body volume, a lifting pump, and a temperature sensor coupled to the main tank and configured to provide a signal associated with the temperature of the reductant within the main tank volume; and a starting tank that has: a starting tank body configured to store reducing agent within a starting tank volume configured to receive the reducing agent from the lift pump, and a starting heater configured to heat the reductant within the starting tank volume, the starting heater having a portion coupled to the starting tank body and / or disposed within the starting tank volume; a controller configured to: receives the signal from the temperature sensor, determines the temperature based on the signal, causes the lift pump to deliver the reducing agent from the main tank volume to the start tank volume based on the temperature, and to operate the main tank based on temperature. [10] The reductant supply system of claim 9, further comprising a supply line coupled to the main tank body and the starting tank body, the supply line configured to receive the reductant from the main tank volume and to provide the reductant to the starting tank volume; wherein: the launch tank body is separate from the main tank body; and the starting tank volume is configured to receive the reducing agent from the main tank volume via the supply line. [11] The reductant delivery system of claim 10, wherein the controller is further configured to cause the start pump to flush reductant from the start line into the start tank volume. [12] The reductant supply system of claim 9, wherein the starting tank body is positioned within the main tank body. [13] The reductant delivery system of claim 12, wherein a portion of the main tank heater is disposed in the starting tank volume. [14] The reductant delivery system of claim 12, wherein the starting tank has thermally insulated walls configured to concentrate heat transfer from the starting heater and / or the main heater within the starting tank body. [15] The reductant delivery system of claim 12, wherein the starting tank body includes a plurality of openings configured to allow reductant to flow from the main tank volume to the starting tank volume. [16] A reducing agent supply system according to claim 9, wherein: the starter heater and the main heater are part of a single heater; or the starter heater is attached to the main heater. [17] The reducing agent supply system according to claim 9, wherein the main heater is an electric heater; and / or the start heater is an electric heater. [18] A reductant supply system according to claim 9, wherein the starting tank volume is between 0.5% of the main tank volume and 8% of the main tank volume inclusive. [19] The reductant delivery system of claim 9, wherein the controller is further configured to: determines that the temperature reaches a threshold; and causes the lift pump to supply the reducing agent from the main tank volume to the reducing agent pump, bypassing the starting tank volume. [20] The reducing agent supply system of claim 9, further comprising a reducing agent pump comprising: a filter housing comprising: an inlet channel configured to receive reducing agent, a pump chamber configured to receive the reducing agent from the inlet channel, a transfer channel configured to receive the reducing agent from the pump chamber, an outlet channel, and a filter head; a pump coupled to the filter housing and operable to cause the reducing agent in the pump chamber to be provided to the transfer channel; a filter cartridge comprising: an upper end plate defining an upper end plate opening, the upper end plate being coupled to the filter head such that the upper end plate opening is aligned with the outlet channel, a lower end plate opposite the upper end plate, a center tube coupled to the upper end plate and the lower end plate, the center tube defining a filter cartridge cavity, and Filter media arranged around the center tube and between the upper end plate and the lower end plate.

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