Vehicle

Abstract

To notify a driver of the fact that filter regeneration processing is underway so as not to cause troublesomeness on the driver.SOLUTION: When a flag Fr changes from 0 to 1 and DPF regeneration processing starts (affirmative determination at S10) while a present position of a vehicle deviates from a road (affirmative determination at S11), a vehicle notifies a driver of the fact that DPF regeneration is underway (S12).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle, and more particularly to a vehicle equipped with a filter for collecting particulate matter contained in the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine.

Background Art

[0002] In order to suppress the release of particulate matter (PM) contained in the exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine into the atmosphere, it is known to provide a filter in the exhaust passage and collect the PM by the filter. When the accumulated amount of the collected PM increases, clogging of the filter occurs and the function deteriorates. Therefore, a filter regeneration process is performed to burn and remove the PM collected (deposited) on the filter.

[0003] When burning and removing the PM collected on the filter to regenerate the filter, the filter becomes hot due to the combustion of the PM. For this reason, in the aftertreatment device of the vehicle disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2010-19187 (Patent Document 1), a regeneration-in progress notification means for notifying that the filter is in the regeneration process is provided during the regeneration process of the filter.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Notifying that the filter is in the regeneration process is preferable in order to alert the driver that the filter is hot and in a state that requires attention. However, for example, in a situation where there is no flammable object around the filter or a situation where the intrusion of small animals is not assumed, such as when driving on a highway, notifying that the filter is in the regeneration process provides the driver with more information than necessary, and there is a concern that it may be bothersome to the driver.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to notify that the filter is being regenerated so as not to be troublesome for the driver.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The vehicle of the present disclosure includes an internal combustion engine, a filter provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, and a filter regeneration process for burning and removing the particulate matter collected by the filter. When the process is being performed, the vehicle is provided with a notification device for notifying that the filter is being regenerated and a control device for controlling the notification device. The control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated when a predetermined condition is satisfied when the regeneration of the filter is started.

[0008] According to this configuration, when the control device starts the regeneration of the filter, if a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated. When the regeneration of the filter is started and a predetermined condition is satisfied, since it is notified that the filter is being regenerated, it becomes possible to notify that the filter is being regenerated in a situation that is not troublesome for the driver.

[0009] Preferably, the vehicle further includes position acquisition means for acquiring the current position of the vehicle, and the control device may be configured to determine that a predetermined condition is satisfied when the current position acquired by the position acquisition means is off the road.

[0010] According to this configuration, when the regeneration of the filter is started, if the current position of the vehicle is off the road, it notifies that the filter is being regenerated. Generally, the road on which the vehicle travels ensures safety during vehicle travel, and the possibility of flammable substances etc. existing on the road surface is low. On the other hand, when the road surface on which the vehicle travels is off the road, the road surface is not maintained, and the possibility of flammable substances existing on the road surface is high. For example, when the vehicle travels on grasslands or plains, there is a high possibility that flammable substances such as withered grass exist on the road surface and around the vehicle. Therefore, when the current position of the vehicle is off the road, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the filter is at a high temperature, and since the information during filter regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0011] Preferably, the vehicle may further include a camera that images the surroundings of the vehicle, and the control device may be configured to determine that a predetermined condition is satisfied when the image captured by the camera is a plain or a grassland.

[0012] According to this configuration, when the regeneration of the filter is started, if the surroundings of the vehicle are a plain or a grassland, it notifies that the filter is being regenerated. When the vehicle travels on grasslands or plains, there is a high possibility that flammable substances such as withered grass exist on the road surface and around the vehicle. Therefore, when the vehicle travels on a grassland or a plain, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the filter is at a high temperature, and since the information during filter regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0013] Preferably, the vehicle may further include weather information acquisition means for acquiring the weather information of the current position of the vehicle, and the control device may be configured to determine that a predetermined condition is satisfied when the weather at the current position of the vehicle is not rain or snow.

[0014] According to this configuration, when the regeneration of the filter is started, if the weather at the current position of the vehicle is not rain or snow, it notifies that the filter is being regenerated. When the weather at the current position of the vehicle is rain or snow, even if there are withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle, they are highly likely to be wet and are in a relatively non-flammable state. On the other hand, when it is not rain or snow, the withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle are highly likely not to be wet and are in a relatively flammable state. Therefore, when the weather at the current position of the vehicle is not rain or snow, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the filter is at a high temperature. Since the information during filter regeneration is information necessary for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0015] Preferably, the vehicle further includes humidity acquisition means for acquiring the humidity around the vehicle, and the control device may be configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the humidity is below a predetermined value.

[0016] According to this configuration, when the regeneration of the filter is started, if the humidity around the vehicle is below a predetermined value, it notifies that the filter is being regenerated. When the humidity around the vehicle is higher than the predetermined value, even if there are withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle, the amount of moisture in the air is large and the amount of moisture in the withered grasses or the like is also large, so it is in a relatively non-flammable state. On the other hand, when the humidity is below the predetermined value, the amount of moisture in the air is small (the air is dry), and the amount of moisture in the withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle is also small, so it is in a relatively flammable state. Therefore, when the humidity around the vehicle is below a predetermined value, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the filter is at a high temperature. Since the information during filter regeneration is information necessary for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0017] Preferably, the vehicle further includes a switch operable by the driver, and the control device may be configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied when the switch is operated.

[0018] According to this configuration, when the playback of the filter is started and a switch operable by the driver is being operated, it is notified that the filter is being regenerated. When the driver needs information during filter regeneration, the driver operates the switch. Therefore, when the switch is being operated, the information during filter regeneration is information necessary for the driver, so the driver feels less bothered.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to notify that the filter is being regenerated so as not to bother the driver.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same or corresponding parts in the drawings may be denoted by the same reference numerals and their description may not be repeated.

[0022] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a vehicle according to the present embodiment. The vehicle V includes an engine 1, a torque converter 2, and an automatic transmission 3.

[0023] In the present embodiment, the engine 1 is a compression ignition internal combustion engine (diesel engine), and the output shaft of the engine 1 is connected to the input shaft of the torque converter 2. The torque converter 2 is a torque converter with a lock-up clutch, and includes a pump impeller, a turbine runner, a stator, and a lock-up clutch (not shown). The output shaft of the torque converter 2 is connected to the input shaft of the automatic transmission 3. The automatic transmission 3 is a planetary gear type multi-stage automatic transmission, and achieves each gear stage by controlling the combination of engagement and release of a plurality of friction engagement elements. The output shaft of the automatic transmission 3 is connected to a differential gear 4 via a propeller shaft. The differential gear 4 is connected to rear wheels 5 which are drive wheels via a drive shaft. The vehicle V is a rear-wheel drive vehicle, but may be a front-wheel drive vehicle or a four-wheel drive vehicle.

[0024] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the engine 1. The engine 1 is a diesel engine, which is an internal combustion engine that injects fuel from a fuel injection valve (injector) 14 into the combustion chamber formed in the cylinder 12 of the engine body 10 and performs compression self-ignition. In the present embodiment, the engine 1 has four cylinders. An air cleaner 22, an intercooler 24, and an intake throttle valve (electronic control throttle) 26 are provided in the intake passage 20 of the engine 1. The fresh air (air) from which foreign matters have been removed by the air cleaner 22 is supercharged (compressed) by the compressor 32 of the turbocharger 30, cooled by the intercooler 24, supplied to the intake manifold 28, and supplied from the intake port to each combustion chamber.

[0025] The exhaust gas discharged from the combustion chamber is collected in the exhaust manifold 50 and discharged to the outside air through the exhaust passage 52. Also, a part of the exhaust gas is recirculated to the intake manifold 28 through the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) passage 60. An EGR cooler 62 and an EGR valve 64 are provided in the EGR passage 60.

[0026] In the exhaust passage 52, from the upstream side, a turbine 34 of the turbocharger 30, an oxidation catalyst 70, and a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) 72 are provided. The DPF 72 is a filter that collects particulate matter (PM) in the exhaust gas, and by burning and removing the collected PM, it suppresses the release of PM into the atmosphere. Although not shown, a urea addition valve and a selective reduction catalyst are provided downstream of the DPF 72.

[0027] Fuel is stored in the fuel tank 40. The fuel in the fuel tank 40 is pumped by a high-pressure fuel pump 41 through a fuel passage 42 to a common rail 43. The high-pressure fuel stored in the common rail 43 is injected from the fuel injection valve 14 into the combustion chamber (in the cylinder).

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1, the vehicle V includes a notification device 6, a camera 7, and an operation switch 8. The notification device 6 notifies that the DPF is in the regeneration process during which the PM collected by the DPF 72 is burned and removed. The notification device 6 may be a display that displays that the DPF is in the regeneration process, may be a lamp that lights up to notify that the DPF is in the regeneration process, or may be a buzzer, chime, or speaker that notifies by sound or voice that the DPF is in the regeneration process.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the notification device 6. The notification device 6 in FIG. 3 uses a display (multi-information display) arranged on the meter panel to display and notify that the DPF is in the regeneration process. FIG. 3(A) shows an example of the information displayed on the display when the DPF 72 is not in the regeneration process (when collecting PM). When the DPF is not in the regeneration process, various information arbitrarily set by the driver (user) such as fuel consumption, outside air temperature, shift range, and total mileage is displayed. When the regeneration process of the DPF 72 is started, the display on the display switches to a display indicating that the DPF 72 is in the regeneration process as shown in FIG. 3(B). Note that the bar display in FIG. 3(B) shows the deposition amount (collection amount) of PM.

[0030] The camera 7 is a camera that images the surroundings of the vehicle V, for example, the front. The camera 7 is a digital camera including, for example, an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor, and an optical system that forms an image of the subject on the imaging element. The operation switch 8 is a switch that can be operated by the driver. The operation switch 8 may be a mechanical switch provided on the dashboard or the steering wheel, or may be an operation button displayed on a touch panel provided on the instrument panel (instrument panel). The operation switch 8 is operated by the driver when there is a request to display the information during DPF generation on the notification device 6.

[0031] The vehicle V further includes a control device 100. The control device 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a memory 102 such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores processing programs and the like, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores data, an input / output port (not shown) for inputting and outputting various signals, etc. Using detection signals from various sensors and the like, it executes predetermined arithmetic processing based on the programs stored in the memory 102, and controls the engine 1, the automatic transmission 3, the notification device 6, etc. The image signal captured by the camera 7 and the operation signal of the operation switch 8 are input to the control device 100.

[0032] Examples of various sensors include an accelerator pedal sensor 121, an engine speed sensor 122, a raindrop sensor 123, a humidity sensor 124, etc. The accelerator pedal sensor 121 detects the accelerator pedal operation amount (hereinafter also referred to as "accelerator opening") AP by the driver. The engine speed sensor 122 detects the rotational speed (rotational speed) NE of the engine 1. The raindrop sensor 123 uses infrared rays to detect raindrops adhering to the windshield. The humidity sensor 124 detects the humidity around the vehicle V.

[0033] In FIG. 1, reference numeral 200 denotes a navigation device. The navigation device 200 includes a navigation ECU (Electronic Control Unit) (not shown), a map information database (DB), a GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver, and a traffic information receiver. The navigation ECU includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an input / output port, etc. Based on various information and signals received from the map information DB, the GPS receiver, and the traffic information receiver, it outputs the current position of the vehicle V, as well as the surrounding map information and traffic jam information, etc. to the control device 100.

[0034] The communication device 300 is configured to include various communication I / Fs (interfaces). The communication device 300 may include a DCM (Data Communication Module). The communication device 300 may include a communication I / F compatible with 5G (the 5th generation mobile communication system). The control device 100 acquires, through the communication device 300, weather information around (current position) the vehicle V from a weather data server (weather data network) (not shown).

[0035] When burning and removing the PM collected by the DPF 72 to regenerate the DPF 72, the DPF 72 becomes high in temperature due to the combustion of the PM. The DPF 72 is provided under the floor surface (under the floor) of the vehicle V or below the engine room. Therefore, during the regeneration process of the DPF 72, it is desirable to notify that the regeneration process is in progress to alert the driver.

[0036] However, for example, in a situation where there is no flammable object around the DPF 72 or no intrusion of small animals is assumed, such as when driving on a highway, when the regeneration process of the DPF 72 is started and the display switches from the display of various information (see Fig. 3(A)) to the display indicating that the DPF 72 is in the regeneration process (see Fig. 3(B)), it will provide the driver with more information than necessary, and there is a concern that the driver will feel bothered. Also, as shown in Fig. 3(B), even if a return display R is provided in the display during DPF regeneration and the driver can return to the display of various information (see Fig. 3(A)) by operating a return button provided on the steering wheel or the like, there is a concern that the driver will feel bothered by the operation of the return button.

[0037] In the present embodiment, when starting the regeneration of the DPF 72, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, by controlling the notification device 6 to notify that the DPF is being regenerated, the driver is notified that the DPF is being regenerated in a situation that is not bothersome to the driver.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the process of notification control executed by the control device 100. This flowchart is repeatedly processed at predetermined intervals during the operation of the engine 1 (from when the ignition switch is turned ON until it is turned OFF). In step (hereinafter, step is abbreviated as "S") 10, it is determined whether the flag Fr has changed from 0 to 1. When the flag Fr was 0 during the previous process and the flag Fr is 1 during the current process, it may be determined that the flag Fr has changed from 0 to 1. The flag Fr is a flag set to 1 during the regeneration process of the DPF 72 and is set by the regeneration control shown in FIG. 5.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the process of regeneration control executed by the control device 100. This flowchart is repeatedly processed at predetermined intervals during the operation of the engine 1. In S20, it is determined whether the flag Fr is 1. When the flag Fr is 0, a negative determination is made and the process proceeds to S21. When the flag Fr is 1, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S25.

[0040] In S21, the PM counter is set to the addition mode (integration mode). The PM counter calculates the amount of PM deposited (collected) in the DPF 72. In the memory 102, the amount of PM discharged from the engine 1 per unit time is stored in advance as a map using the accelerator opening AP, the engine speed NE, the exhaust gas temperature, etc. as parameters. Also, during the regeneration process of the DPF 72, the amount of PM combusted and removed per unit time is stored in advance as a map using the engine speed NE, the intake air amount, the exhaust gas temperature, etc. as parameters. When the PM counter is set to the addition mode, in a PM deposition amount calculation routine (not shown), the PM count value Cp is added (integrated) according to the amount of PM discharged from the engine 1.

[0041] In subsequent S22, it is determined whether the PM count value Cp is greater than or equal to the threshold value C1. The threshold value C1 is preset as a preferable value for burning and removing the deposited PM to perform regeneration of the DPF 72. If the PM count value Cp is less than the threshold value C1, a negative determination is made and the current routine ends. If the PM count value Cp is greater than or equal to the threshold value C1, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S23.

[0042] In S23, DPF regeneration control is executed to burn and remove the PM deposited on the DPF 72 and perform regeneration processing on the DPF 72. In the present embodiment, DPF regeneration control is performed by performing post-injection from the fuel injection valve 14. Post-injection is a fuel injection executed after the main injection. In the present embodiment, fuel injection is performed from the fuel injection valve 14 from the latter stage of the expansion stroke to the initial stage of the exhaust stroke of the engine 1. By performing post-injection, the exhaust gas flowing into the DPF 72 becomes high temperature, and the PM can be burned and removed. Note that when the oxidation catalyst 70 is not activated or when the exhaust gas temperature is lower than a predetermined temperature, the oxidation catalyst 70 is activated, and DPF regeneration control is executed after the operating state where the exhaust gas temperature becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature.

[0043] In subsequent S24, the flag Fr is set to 1 and the current routine ends. When the flag Fr is 1, an affirmative determination is made in S20, and the process proceeds to S25, the PM counter is set to the subtraction mode. When the PM counter is set to the subtraction mode, in a PM deposition amount calculation routine (not shown), the PM count value Cp is subtracted according to the amount of PM burned and removed from the DPF.

[0044] In subsequent S26, it is determined whether the PM count value Cp is less than or equal to the threshold value C2. The threshold value C2 is a threshold value for determining whether the regeneration of the DPF 72 has ended, and is preset. If the PM count value Cp is greater than the threshold value C2, a negative determination is made and the current routine ends. If the PM count value Cp is less than or equal to the threshold value C2, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S27.

[0045] In S27, the DPF regeneration control is terminated. In the present embodiment, the post-injection is stopped and normal fuel injection is performed. In subsequent S28, the flag Fr is set to 0 and the current routine is terminated.

[0046] Returning to FIG. 4, when the regeneration process of the DPF 72 is started, since the flag Fr changes from 0 to 1, the process proceeds to S11 where an affirmative determination is made in S10. In S11, it is determined whether the current position of the vehicle V is off the road. The control device 100 determines whether the current position of the vehicle V is off the road based on the current position of the vehicle V received from the navigation device 200 and the surrounding map information. For example, when the current position of the vehicle V is outside a predetermined distance from the road nodes and road links of the map information (map data), it is determined that the current position of the vehicle V is off the road. If the current position of the vehicle V is off the road, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S12. If the current position of the vehicle V is not off the road, a negative determination is made and the current routine is terminated.

[0047] In S12, it is notified that the DPF 72 is being regenerated. By switching the display of the notification device 6 from the display shown in FIG. 3(A) to the display shown in FIG. 3(B) and performing the display of "DPF regeneration in progress", it is notified that the DPF 72 is being regenerated.

[0048] In the current process, if the flag Fr has not changed from 0 to 1, a negative determination is made in S10 and the process proceeds to S13. In S13, it is determined whether the flag Fr has changed from 1 to 0. When the flag Fr was 1 during the previous process and the flag Fr is 0 during the current process, it may be determined that the flag Fr has changed from 1 to 0. In the current process, if the flag Fr has not changed from 1 to 0, a negative determination is made and the current process is terminated.

[0049] When the regeneration process of the DPF72 ends, the flag Fr changes from 1 to 0, so the process proceeds to S14 where an affirmative determination is made in S13. In S14, the notification that the PF72 is being regenerated is terminated. The display of the notification device 6 is switched from the display of "DPF regeneration in progress" shown in Fig. 3(B) to the display of "various information" shown in Fig. 3(A). If the display of the notification device 6 is the display shown in Fig. 3(A) (when the display of DPF regeneration in progress is not shown), the display is maintained. Then, this routine is terminated.

[0050] According to the present embodiment, when starting the regeneration of the DPF72, if the current position of the vehicle V is off the road, it notifies that the DPF is being regenerated. When the road surface on which the vehicle V travels is off the road, the road surface is not maintained, and there is a high possibility that flammable substances exist on the road surface. For example, when the vehicle V travels on a grassland or a prairie, there is a high possibility that flammable substances such as withered grass exist on the road surface and around the vehicle V. Therefore, when the current position of the vehicle V is off the road, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the DPF72 is at a high temperature. Since the information during DPF regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0051] (Embodiment 2) In Embodiment 2, using the image captured by the camera 7, it is determined whether the vehicle V is traveling on a grassland or a prairie. When the vehicle V is traveling on a grassland or a prairie and the regeneration of the DPF72 is started, it notifies that the DPF is being regenerated. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing of the notification control executed by the control device 100 in Embodiment 2. This flowchart is obtained by replacing the processing of S11 of the notification control shown in Fig. 4 with S30.

[0052] In S30, it is determined whether the image captured by the camera 7 is of a grassland or a field. For example, by extracting the feature amount of the landscape image from the image captured by the camera 7 and comparing it with the feature amount data indicating the features of grasslands, fields, etc. stored in the memory 102, when the similarity between the feature amount of the landscape image and the feature amount data is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, it is determined that the image captured by the camera 7 is of a grassland or a field. If the image captured by the camera 7 is of a grassland or a field and is positively determined, the process proceeds to S12. If the image captured by the camera 7 is not of a grassland or a field, a negative determination is made and the current routine ends.

[0053] According to this Embodiment 2, when the regeneration of the DPF 72 is started, if the image captured by the camera 7 is of a grassland or a field, that is, if the surroundings of the vehicle V are a field or a grassland, it is notified that the DPF is being regenerated. When the vehicle V is traveling on a grassland, a field, etc., there is a high possibility that flammable materials such as withered grass exist on the road surface and around the vehicle V. Therefore, when the vehicle V is traveling on a grassland or a field, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the DPF 72 is at a high temperature, and since the information during DPF regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0054] (Embodiment 3) FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the process of notification control executed by the control device 100 in Embodiment 3. This flowchart is obtained by replacing the process of S11 of the notification control shown in FIG. 4 with S40.

[0055] In S40, it is determined whether the weather information around the vehicle V (current position) obtained from the weather data server through the communication device 300 is rain or snow. If the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is rain or snow, a positive determination is made and the current routine ends. If the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is not rain or snow, a negative determination is made and the process proceeds to S12.

[0056] According to the third embodiment, when the regeneration of the DPF 72 is started, if the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is not rain or snow, it notifies that the DPF is being regenerated. When the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is rain or snow, even if there are withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle V, there is a high probability that they are wet and are in a relatively difficult-to-burn state. On the other hand, when it is not rain or snow, there is a high probability that the withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle V are not wet and are in a relatively easy-to-burn state. Therefore, when the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is not rain or snow, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the DPF 72 is at a high temperature. Since the information during DPF regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0057] In addition, in S40, in addition to, or instead of, the weather information around the vehicle V acquired through the communication device 300, the fact that the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is rain or snow may be determined using the raindrops adhering to the windshield detected by the raindrop sensor 123.

[0058] (Embodiment 4) FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the process of the notification control executed by the control device 100 in the fourth embodiment. This flowchart is obtained by replacing the process of S11 of the notification control shown in FIG. 4 with S50.

[0059] In S50, it is determined whether or not the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 124 is equal to or less than a predetermined value α. If the humidity is equal to or less than the predetermined value α, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S12. If the humidity is higher than the predetermined value α, a negative determination is made and the current routine ends. The predetermined value α may be, for example, 75%.

[0060] According to this Embodiment 4, when the regeneration of the DPF 72 is started, if the humidity around the vehicle V is equal to or less than a predetermined value α, it is notified that the DPF is being regenerated. When the humidity around the vehicle V is higher than the predetermined value α, even if there are withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle V, since the amount of moisture in the air is large and the amount of moisture in the withered grasses or the like is also large, it is in a state where it is relatively difficult to burn. On the other hand, when the humidity is equal to or less than the predetermined value α, the amount of moisture in the air is small (the air is dry), and the amount of moisture in the withered grasses or the like on the driving road surface or around the vehicle V is also small, so it is in a state where it is relatively easy to burn. Therefore, when the humidity around the vehicle V is equal to or less than the predetermined value, it is desirable to pay attention to the fact that the DPF 72 is at a high temperature. Since the information during DPF regeneration is necessary information for the driver, the driver is less likely to feel bothered.

[0061] (Embodiment 5) FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the process of notification control executed by the control device 100 in Embodiment 5. This flowchart is obtained by replacing the process of S11 of the notification control shown in FIG. 4 with S60.

[0062] In S60, it is determined whether or not the operation switch 8 is being operated by the driver (user). For example, when the operation switch 8 is in the ON state, it is determined that the operation switch 8 is being operated by the driver. When the operation switch 8 is ON, an affirmative determination is made and the process proceeds to S12. When the operation switch 8 is OFF, a negative determination is made and the current routine ends.

[0063] According to this Embodiment 5, when the regeneration of the DPF 72 is started and the operation switch 8 is being operated, it is notified that the DPF is in the regeneration process. When the driver needs information during DPF regeneration, the driver operates the operation switch 8 to turn it on. Therefore, when the operation switch 8 is being operated, the information during DPF regeneration is the information necessary for the driver, so the driver is less likely to feel bothered. Note that the operation switch 8 may be set for the purpose of not notifying during DPF regeneration when the driver operates the operation switch 8 (when it is turned on). In this case, when the operation switch 8 is OFF, a positive determination may be made in S60. In this case, when the operation switch 8 is OFF, it is determined that the switch is being operated.

[0064] (Modification Example 1) Embodiments 1 to 5 may be appropriately combined to control the notification device 6. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the notification control process executed by the control device 100 in Modification Example 1. In this flowchart, steps that perform the same processing as the flowcharts of FIGS. 4, 6 to 9 are given the same reference numerals.

[0065] In this Modification Example 1, even if the current position of the vehicle V is off the road (positive determination in S11) and it is not running on grassland or fields etc. (negative determination in S30), the notification during DPF regeneration is not performed. Thereby, even if the current position of the vehicle V is off the road, when the probability of the presence of flammable substances such as sandy land or withered grass is low, the notification during DPF regeneration is not performed, so it is possible to prevent providing the driver with more information than necessary. In this case, when the operation switch 8 is being operated (positive determination in S60), the notification during DFP regeneration is performed.

[0066] (Modification Example 2) FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the notification control process executed by the control device 100 in Modification Example 2. In this flowchart, steps that perform the same processing as the flowcharts of FIGS. 4, 6 to 9 are given the same reference numerals.

[0067] In this Modification 2, even if the current position of the vehicle V is off the road (positive determination in S11), when the weather at the current position of the vehicle V is rain or snow (positive determination in S40), the notification during DPF regeneration is not performed. As a result, even if the current position of the vehicle V is off the road, when there is a high probability that the driving road surface or dry grass around the vehicle V is wet, the notification during DPF regeneration is not performed, so that it is possible to prevent providing the driver with more information than necessary. Even in this case, when the operation switch 8 is operated (positive determination in S60), the notification during DFP regeneration is performed.

[0068] In the above embodiment, when performing the regeneration process on the DPF 72, post-injection is performed from the fuel injection valve 14 to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas flowing into the DPF 72. However, a fuel addition valve may be provided upstream of the DPF 72 (upstream of the oxidation catalyst 70), and fuel may be injected from the fuel addition valve during the regeneration process of the DPF 72 to increase the temperature of the exhaust gas flowing into the DPF 72.

[0069] In the above embodiment, the PM counter is used to estimate (calculate) the amount of PM deposited on the DPF 72. However, instead of or in addition to the PM counter, the amount of PM deposited on the DPF 72 may be estimated based on the pressure difference before and after the DPF 72. Further, in addition to the above Modification 1 and Modification 2, Embodiments 1 to 5 may be appropriately combined to control the notification device 6.

[0070] Illustrating the embodiments in the present disclosure, the following aspects can be exemplified. 1) A vehicle including an internal combustion engine (1), a filter (72) provided in an exhaust passage (52) of the internal combustion engine (1) for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, a notification device (6) for notifying that the filter regeneration is in progress when performing a regeneration process for burning and removing the particulate matter collected by the filter (72), and a control device (100) for controlling the notification device (6), wherein the control device (100) is configured to notify that the filter regeneration is in progress when a predetermined condition is satisfied when the regeneration of the filter (72) is started.

[0071] 2) In 1, when the current position of the vehicle is off the road and the vehicle is traveling on grassland or a plain, the control device (100) determines that a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0072] 3) In 1, when the current position of the vehicle is off the road and the weather at the current position of the vehicle is not rain or snow, the control device (100) determines that a predetermined condition is satisfied.

[0073] The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is shown not by the above description but by the claims, and it is intended that all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0074] 1 Engine, 2 Torque converter, 3 Automatic transmission, 4 Differential gear, 5 Rear wheels, 6 Notification device, 7 Camera, 8 Operation switch, 10 Engine body, 12 Cylinders, 14 Fuel injection valve, 20 Intake passage, 22 Air cleaner, 24 Intercooler, 26 Intake throttle valve, 28 Intake manifold, 30 Turbocharger, 32 Compressor, 34 Turbine, 40 Fuel tank, 41 High-pressure fuel pump, 42 Fuel passage, 43 Common rail, 50 Exhaust manifold, 52 Exhaust passage, 60 EGR passage, 62 EGR cooler, 64 EGR valve, 70 Oxidation catalyst, 72 DPF, 100 Control device, 101 CPU, 102 Memory, 121 Accelerator pedal sensor, 122 Engine speed sensor, 123 Raindrop sensor, 124 Humidity sensor, 200 Navigation device, 300 Communication device, V Vehicle.

Claims

1. An internal combustion engine, a filter provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, a notification device for notifying that the filter is being regenerated when performing a regeneration process of the filter for combusting and removing the particulate matter collected by the filter, a position acquisition means for acquiring the current position of the vehicle, a control device for controlling the notification device, and comprising: When the regeneration of the filter is started, the control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and when the current position acquired by the position acquisition means is off the road, the control device is configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied. A vehicle.

2. An internal combustion engine, a filter provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, a notification device for notifying that the filter is being regenerated when performing a regeneration process of the filter for combusting and removing the particulate matter collected by the filter, a camera for imaging the surroundings of the vehicle, a control device for controlling the notification device, and comprising: When the regeneration of the filter is started, the control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and when the image captured by the camera is a field or a prairie, the control device is configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied. A vehicle.

3. An internal combustion engine, a filter provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, a notification device for notifying that the filter is being regenerated when performing a regeneration process of the filter for combusting and removing the particulate matter collected by the filter, a weather information acquisition means for acquiring weather information of the current position of the vehicle, a control device for controlling the notification device, and comprising: When the regeneration of the filter is started, the control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and when the weather at the current position of the vehicle is not rain or snow, the control device is configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied. A vehicle.

4. An internal combustion engine, a filter provided in an exhaust passage of the internal combustion engine for collecting particulate matter contained in exhaust gas, When performing a regeneration process of the filter that combusts and removes the particulate matter collected by the filter, a notification device that notifies that the filter is being regenerated, humidity acquisition means for acquiring the humidity around the vehicle, and a control device that controls the notification device, and is provided with, When the regeneration of the filter is started, the control device controls the notification device to notify that the filter is being regenerated when a predetermined condition is satisfied, and when the humidity is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the control device is configured to determine that the predetermined condition is satisfied. A vehicle.

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