Fluid temperature controls to mitigate condensation

Abstract

A system includes an oil system coupled to an engine and a controller coupled to the oil system and the engine. The controller is configured to receive information regarding fluid in the oil system and a first temperature value regarding the engine. The controller is configured to implement one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold. The controller is configured to receive a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine and determine a future temperature value of the engine. The controller is configured to receive a second temperature value regarding operation of the engine. The controller is configured to implement one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

Description

FLUID TEMPERATURE CONTROLS TO MITIGATECONDENSATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This PCT Application claims the benefit of and priority to U. S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 638,360 filed April 24, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to fluid, and particularly oil, temperature controls for mitigating condensation. The oil temperature controls may mitigate condensation forming in or removing condensation from an oil system of a piece of equipment.BACKGROUND

[0003] In an internal combustion engine, an oil system facilitates the process of lubrication of one or more components of the engine, such as cylinders, pistons, and so on with a lubricant, such as oil. Byproducts of combustion of fuel in the engine may be collected in the oil and enter the oil system. In a hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine, the byproducts may include water. When water mixes with the oil in the oil system, the effectiveness of the oil to properly lubricate the components of the engine may decrease. Thus, it is desirable to mitigate or decrease the amount of water in the oil system.SUMMARY

[0004] One embodiment relates to a system. The system includes an oil system coupled to an engine. The system includes a controller coupled to the oil system and the engine, the controller comprising one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to perform operations. The operations include receiving information regarding fluid in the oil system; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determiningthat the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period. Implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is below the predetermined temperature value.

[0005] Another embodiment relates to a method. The method includes receiving information regarding fluid in an oil system coupled to an engine; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding the operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is below the predetermined temperature value.

[0006] Yet another embodiment relates to a non-transitory computer readable media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a processing circuit, cause theone or more processors to perform operations. The operations include receiving information regarding a fluid in an oil system coupled to an engine; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of: determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is below the predetermined temperature value.

[0007] Numerous specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The described features of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and / or implementations. In this regard, one or more features of an aspect of the invention may be combined with one or more features of a different aspect of the invention. Moreover, additional features may be recognized in certain embodiments and / or implementations that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. l is a block diagram of a system including a hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine, according to an example embodiment.[0009 [ FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an oil system and the engine of the system of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a controller of the system of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment.[00111 FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a method of implementing one or more oil heater controls in the system of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Following below are more detailed descriptions of various concepts related to, and implementations of, methods, apparatuses, computer-readable media, and systems for fluid, particularly oil, temperature controls for mitigating condensation. An oil system may facilitate one or more functions in an engine system including, but not limited to, providing lubrication for engine components, such as combustion cylinders, crankshafts, pistons, connecting rods, etc., facilitating cooling of engine components, such as piston heads, and / or other suitable functions. Before turning to the Figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the Figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0013] As utilized herein, the term “estimating” and like terms are used to refer to determining an approximate value based on data (e.g., sensor data, historical sensor data, real-time sensor data, etc.), which may be close but not necessarily exactly the actual value. In some embodiments, estimating a current or future value can be performed using one or more models (e.g., statistical models, artificial intelligence models, machine learning models, etc.). For example, estimating a temperature of exhaust gas can include using data, such as sensor data, with a model to determine the temperature value. As utilized herein, the term “measuring” and like terms are used to refer to determining an approximate value based on detecting or receiving information regarding the measured value / parameter (e.g., using a sensor). The measured value may be closer to the actual value (e.g., compared to estimating the value) but not necessarily exactly the actual value of the parameter value.

[0014] As used herein, a “predicting” and similar timers, in addition to the plain meaning of the words, are used to mean estimating or otherwise determining a future value or characteristic. For example, predicting a value may include determining one or more future values. In some embodiments, predicting the future value can be performed using one or more models (e.g., statistical models, artificial intelligence models, machine learning models, etc.). For example, predicting a temperature of exhaust gas can include using data, such as sensor data, with a model to determine the future temperature value.

[0015] As utilized herein, the term “operational data” and like terms are used to refer to data regarding the operation of a system, such as an engine system. In some embodiments, operational data may include settings, values, or other information regarding the operation of a system. In some embodiments, the operational data may be measured (e.g., by one or more real sensors) and / or estimated or determined (e.g., by one or more virtual sensors or by a computer device or processing circuit).

[0016] As described herein, the term “duty cycle” refers to one or more characteristics regarding the operation of a system, such as an engine system, over a predefined period of time or other unit of operation of the system. A duty cycle of an engine system may include a set of values or characteristics including an engine speed value, an engine load value, an engine fueling characteristic (e.g., fuel consumption), a system temperature value (e.g., an engine temperature value, an aftertreatment system temperature value, an oil system temperature value, etc.), and / or other suitable characteristic, measured or determined over a predefined period of time. In some embodiments, the set of values or characteristics may be repeatable for corresponding periods of time. The duty cycles of the system may be grouped by similarity, such as an engine speed values relative to engine load values. For example, a “low” duty cycle may refer to relatively lower engine speeds, engine loads, fueling characteristics, and / or temperature values. More specifically, a low duty cycle may refer to one or more of the operating characteristics being at or below respective predetermined “low” thresholds. For example, a low duty cycle may refer to a low engine load or a period of engine idling. Similarly, a “high” duty cycle may refer to relatively greater engine speeds, engine loads, fueling characteristics, and / or temperature values. More specifically, a high duty cycle may refer to one or more of the operating characteristics being at or above apredetermined respective “high” threshold. In any of the above-described embodiments, the predefined period of time may be a specific time value (e.g., 1 hour, 8 hours, 12 hours, etc.), or a dynamic time value based on a mission of the system, such as a time to complete a mission of the system, a time remaining for a mission of the system, and so on. In another example, a duty cycle may include a set of engine speed values compared to a set of engine load or engine fueling values. The duty cycle may be depicted on a graph, where engine speed is represented along a horizontal axis and engine load or fueling is represented on a vertical axis. In still another example, a duty cycle may include other parameters, such as a fuel consumption rate, an idle and power take off usage, fuel economy value.100171 As described herein, an engine system may include an engine and an exhaust aftertreatment system in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine. The engine may be a hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine (ICE) configured to combust hydrogen fuel (H2). During normal operation of an engine, the hydrogen fueled ICE may produce water (H2O) as a byproduct of combusting the hydrogen fuel in the presence of air, which includes oxygen (O2). The water may be routed out of the engine with exhaust gases and to one or more downstream components, such as an aftertreatment system. The water may leak or flow into other parts of the system. For example, at least a portion of the water may leak into an oil system.

[0018] Advantageously and as described herein, a control system or controller may implement one or more controls to substantially remove water from the oil system. As described herein, the control system may implement one or more controls to heat fluids in the oil system, including oil and water or an oil-water mixture, such that the water substantially evaporates and exits the oil system.

[0019] In an example embodiment, the control system may implement one or more of a first set of controls to heat the fluid in the oil system, without changing the operation of the engine. More specifically, the first set of controls described herein include routing the fluid in the oil system through a “hot” passageway of the engine and / or routing the fluid in the oil system to bypass or substantially bypass an oil cooler. The “hot” passageway may be a passageway defined by the engine, such that the heat of the engine causes the “hot” passageway to be at or above a predefined hot temperature threshold. A temperature of thehot passageway may be greater than the temperature of the fluid in the oil system. More specifically, the temperature of the hot passageway may be at or above a predetermined threshold temperature. The predetermined threshold temperature may be at or above the boiling point of water at the pressure of the fluid within the oil system. For example, when the pressure of the fluid in the oil system is 1 atmosphere, the predetermined threshold temperature may be at or above 100°C. The first set of controls is described in greater detail herein.

[0020] In another example embodiment, the control system may implement one or more of a second set of controls to heat the fluid in the oil system. The second set of controls may include changing the operation of one or more components of the system, such as the engine or another component. More specifically, the second set of controls described herein include activating an oil heater, activating an engine block heater, increasing an idle speed of the engine, applying a load to the engine (e.g., powering electrical accessories, powering a motor generator to charge a battery, powering a component of the aftertreatment system, etc.), enabling a cylinder deactivation mode whereby one or more cylinders of the engine are deactivated, controlling an air-to-fuel ratio (“AFR”), and / or controlling an intake air heater to heat intake air. In some embodiments, one or more of the second set of controls directly increases the temperature of the fluid in the oil system. For example, activating an oil heater causes the fluid in the oil system to increase in temperature. In some embodiments, the one or more of the second set of controls increases the temperature of the engine. For example, activating an engine block heater, increasing an idle speed of the engine, applying a load to the engine, enabling a cylinder deactivation mode, and / or controlling an air-to-fuel ratio (e.g., increasing the AFR) may increase the temperature of the engine. In these embodiments, the fluid in the oil system may be routed through the hot passageway to increase the temperature of the fluid. In some embodiments, one or more of the second set of controls mitigates further condensation from forming. For example, control intake air heater to heat up intake air may mitigate (e.g., reduce) the formation of condensation within the engine thereby mitigating (e.g., reducing) against water from entering the oil system.

[0021] Advantageously, the control system or controller described herein may implement one or more of the first set of controls and / or one or more of the second set of controls heat thefluid in the oil system. As the fluid in the oil system is heated above a threshold temperature, such as at or above 100°C, the water in the oil system may evaporate and exit the oil system. Beneficially, this leads to a reduction in fluid, namely water, in the oil system of the engine system. These and other features and benefits are described more fully herein below.[00221 Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic view of a block diagram of a system 100 is shown, according to an example embodiment. The system 100 includes an engine 102 and an aftertreatment system 120 in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102. The system 100 includes a controller 140 (as shown in FIG. 3) and an operator input / output (I / O) device 130, where the controller 140 is communicably coupled to each of the aforementioned components.

[0023] In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a turbo device 122 disposed between the engine 102 and the aftertreatment system 120, such that the turbo device 122 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102 and exhaust gas providing communication with the aftertreatment system 120. In these embodiments, the aftertreatment system 120 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102 (e.g., via the turbo device 122).

[0024] In some embodiments, the system 100 is included in a vehicle. The vehicle may be any type of on-road or off-road vehicle including, but not limited to, wheel-loaders, fork-lift trucks, line-haul trucks, mid-range trucks (e.g., pick-up truck, etc.), sedans, coupes, tanks, airplanes, boats, and any other type of vehicle. In other embodiments, the system 100 may be embodied in a stationary piece of equipment, such as a power generator or genset. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0025] In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the engine 102 is a hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine (ICE). The hydrogen fueled ICE may consume hydrogen fuel to generate power. In some embodiments, the engine 102 may be part of a hybrid engine system having a combination of an internal combustion engine and at least one electric machine coupled to at least one battery (not shown). For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 may include an electric machine 128 (e.g., a motor, a motor generator, an electric starter, etc.) that is coupled to the engine 102 via a shaft 126 (e.g., an output shaft, a drive shaft, a crankshaft,etc.). In some embodiments, the system 100 may be configured as a mild-hybrid powertrain, a parallel hybrid powertrain, a series hybrid powertrain, or a series-parallel powertrain.

[0026] The engine 102 includes one or more cylinders 104 (e.g., combustion cylinders). The cylinders 104 are disposed within a combustion chamber of the engine 102. The cylinders 104 enable combustion of the hydrogen fuel within the engine 102. Combustion of hydrogen fuel causes the engine 102 to rotate, thereby causing rotation of the shaft 126.

[0027] In some embodiments, the shaft 126 may be rotated by an outside force, such as the electric machine 128 and / or another component of the engine, such as a turbine a flywheel, or other suitable component. In some embodiments, the outside force may supplement the rotation of the shaft 126. That is, the engine 102 and the outside force may cooperate to rotate the shaft 126 concurrently or partially concurrently. In other embodiments the engine 102 and the outside force may rotate the shaft 126 independently. That is, the engine 102 and the outside force may rotate the shaft sequentially (e.g., one after another). In these embodiments, fuel may or may not be provided to the cylinder 104 when the engine 102 is not rotating the shaft 126.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the engine 102 includes six cylinders 104. However, it should be understood that the engine 102 may include more or fewer cylinders 104 (e.g., at least one) than as shown in FIG. 1. Furthermore, the cylinders 104 may be provided in varying arrangements (e.g., in-line, horizontal, V, or other suitable cylinder arrangement).]0029[ The system 100 includes an intake conduit 110 and an intake manifold 112. The intake conduit 110 is configured to route an intake gas stream, including air (e.g., ambient air, compressed air, etc.), to the intake manifold 112. The intake manifold 112 is configured to route the intake gas stream from an intake conduit 110 into the engine 102. More specifically, the intake manifold 112 is configured to route air from the intake conduit 110 to each of the cylinders 104.

[0030] The system 100 includes an exhaust manifold 116 and an exhaust conduit 118. The exhaust manifold 116 is configured to route an exhaust gas stream from the engine to the exhaust conduit 118. More specifically, the exhaust manifold 116 is configured to route anexhaust gas stream from each of the cylinders 104 to the exhaust conduit 118. The exhaust conduit 118 is configured to route the exhaust gas stream from the exhaust manifold 116 to a downstream component, such as the aftertreatment system 120 and / or the turbo device 122. In some embodiments, a first portion of the exhaust conduit 118 is disposed between the exhaust manifold 116 and turbo device 122. The first portion of the exhaust conduit 118 is configured to route the exhaust gas stream from the exhaust manifold 116 to turbo device 122. In some embodiments, a second portion of the exhaust conduit 118 is disposed between the aftertreatment system 120 and the turbo device 122. The second portion of the exhaust conduit 118 is configured to route the exhaust gas stream from the turbo device 122 to the aftertreatment system 120.

[0031] The aftertreatment system 120 is in exhaust gas receiving communication with the engine 102. The aftertreatment system 120 includes components used to reduce exhaust emissions, such as a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalyst, an oxidation catalyst (OC), a particulate filter (PF), an exhaust fluid doser with a supply of exhaust fluid, a plurality of sensors for monitoring the aftertreatment system (e.g., a nitrogen oxide (NOx) sensor, temperature sensors, etc.), and / or still other components.

[0032] The turbo device 122 may be any type of turbo machinery, such as a turbocharger, a variable geometry turbocharger, a power turbine, etc. The turbo device 122 may be operatively coupled to the engine 102 and / or another component of the system 100, such as a drivetrain, a battery, an electric machine, or other suitable component. In some embodiments, the turbo device 122 is configured to compress a gas stream (e.g., an intake gas stream, an exhaust gas stream, etc.) and provide the compressed gas stream to the engine 102. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the turbo device 122 may be coupled to the intake manifold 112 such that the turbo device is operative to provide the compressed gas stream to the engine 102 (e.g., via the intake manifold 112).

[0033] In some embodiments, the system 100 includes an oil system 150. The oil system 150 is a system of conduits, pumps, filters, and other components that is configured to route a fluid, such as oil, through the engine 102. The oil system 150 is coupled to the engine 102. The oil system 150 is configured to provide the fluid to the engine 102. The oil system 150 is configured to receive the oil from the engine 102. According to one embodiment, the oilsystem 150 includes one or more conduits that define an oil conduit system 154 that defines a flow path for the fluid. The oil conduit system 154 is structured to route the fluid to and from the engine 102. The oil system 150 is described in greater detail herein with respect to FIG. 2.

[0034] In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a coolant system 170. The coolant system 170 is a system of conduits, heat exchangers, pumps, and other components that is configured to route a fluid, such as a coolant, through the engine 102. The coolant system 170 is coupled to the engine 102. The coolant system 170 is configured to provide the coolant to the engine 102. The coolant system 170 is configured to receive the coolant from the engine 102. The coolant system 170 is structured to route the coolant to and from the engine 102.

[0035] As shown, a plurality of sensors 125 are included in the system 100. The number, placement, and type of sensors included in the system 100 is shown for example purposes only. That is, in other configurations, the number, placement, and type of sensors may differ. The sensors 125 may be gas constituent sensors (e.g., NOx sensors, oxygen sensors, FFO / humidity sensors, hydrogen sensors, etc.), temperature sensors, particulate matter (PM) sensors, flow rate sensors (e.g., mass flow rate sensors, volumetric flow rate sensors, etc.), other exhaust gas emissions constituent sensors, pressure sensors, some combination thereof, and so on. In an example embodiment, the sensors 125 are configured as temperature sensors configured to acquire data regarding a temperature of a fluid, such as the coolant in the coolant system 170, the fluid in the oil system 150, air at or proximate the engine 102 (e.g., at or proximate the intake manifold 112 of the engine 102), or other fluid in the system 100 and / or acquire data regarding a temperature of a component of the system 100.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, the sensors 125 may be located at or proximate the intake conduit the engine 102, the oil system 150, and / or the coolant system 170. It should be understood that the location of the sensors may vary, and the system 100 may include more or fewer sensors than as shown in FIG. 1.

[0037] Additional sensors may be also included with the system 100. The sensors may include engine-related sensors (e.g., torque sensors, speed sensors, pressure sensors, flowrate sensors, temperature sensors, etc.). The sensors may further include sensors associated with other components of the vehicle, such as the aftertreatment system 120, the turbo device 122,or the fuel system 124. For example, the sensor may include speed sensor of the turbo device 122, a fuel quantity and injection rate sensor, fuel rail pressure sensor, etc.).(0038] The sensors 125 may be real or virtual (i.e., a non-physical sensor that is structured as program logic in the controller 140 that makes various estimations or determinations). For example, an engine speed sensor may be a real or virtual sensor arranged to measure or otherwise acquire data, values, or information indicative of a speed of the engine 102 (typically expressed in revolutions-per-minute). The sensor is coupled to the engine (when structured as a real sensor) and is structured to send a signal to the controller 140 indicative of the speed of the engine 102. When structured as a virtual sensor, at least one input may be used by the controller 140 in an algorithm, model, lookup table, etc. to determine or estimate a parameter of the engine (e.g., power output, etc.). Any of the sensors 125 described herein may be real or virtual.

[0039] The controller 140 is coupled, and particularly communicably coupled, to the sensors 125. Accordingly, the controller 140 is structured to receive data from one more of the sensors 125 and provide instruct! ons / informati on to the one or more sensors 125. The received data may be used by the controller 140 to control one more components in the system 100 as described herein.

[0040] As briefly described above, the system 100 includes a shaft 126. In an example embodiment, the shaft 126 is a crankshaft. In other embodiments, the shaft 126 may be any shaft coupled directly or indirectly to the engine 102 such that the shaft is rotated by the engine 102. For example, the shaft 126 may be an output shaft, a drive shaft, a crankshaft, or other suitable shaft. The shaft 126 is configured to transmit power output by the engine 102 to another component, such as an axle, a wheel, or another shaft. In some embodiments an intermediate component couples the engine 102 to the shaft 126, such as a clutch, a transmission, etc.

[0041] As briefly described above, the system 100 includes the electric machine 128. The electric machine 128 is configured to use electrical power (e.g., from a battery, an alternator, or the WHR system 160) to output mechanical power. For example, the electric machine 128 is coupled to the shaft 126 such that the shaft 126 is operable to receive power output by theelectric machine 128. In this way, the electric machine 128 is operable to rotate shaft 126. In some embodiments, the system 100 includes a battery 129. The electric machine 128 is coupled to the battery 129 such that the electric machine 128 is operable to provide power to and / or receive power from the battery 129. For example, the electric machine 128 may be rotated by the engine 102 (e.g., via the shaft 126) such that the electric machine 128 generates power (e.g., electrical power). The electric machine 128 may provide the generated power to the battery 129 (e.g., to charge the battery). In another example, the electric machine 128 may receive power from the battery 129 and consume the power to rotate the shaft 126.

[0042] The operator input / output (I / O) 130 device may be coupled to the controller 140, such that information may be exchanged between the controller 140 and the I / O device, where the information may relate to one or more components of FIG. 1 or determinations (described below) of the controller 140. The operator I / O device enables an operator of the system 100 to communicate with the controller 140 and one or more components of the system 100 of FIG. 1. For example, the operator input / output device may include, but is not limited to, an interactive display, a touchscreen device, one or more buttons and switches, voice command receivers, etc. In this way, the operator input / output device may provide one or more indications or notifications to an operator, such as a malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), etc. Additionally, the vehicle may include a port that enables the controller 140 to connect or couple to a scan tool so that fault codes and other information regarding the vehicle may be obtained.

[0043] The controller 140 is structured to control, at least partly, the operation of the system 100 and associated sub-systems, such as the engine 102 and the operator I / O device 130. Communication between and among the components may be via any number of wired or wireless connections. For example, a wired connection may include a serial cable, a fiber optic cable, a CAT5 cable, or any other form of wired connection. In comparison, a wireless connection may include the Internet, Wi-Fi, cellular, radio, etc. In one embodiment, a controller area network (CAN) bus provides the exchange of signals, information, and / or data. The CAN bus includes any number of wired and wireless connections. Because the controller 140 is communicably coupled to the systems and components of FIG. 1, the controller 140 is structured to receive data from one or more of the components shown inFIG. 1. The structure and function of the controller 140 is further described in regard to FIG. 3.

[0044] As the components of FIG. 1 are shown to be embodied in the system 100, the controller 140 may be structured as one or more electronic control units (ECUs), such as one or more microcontrollers. The controller 140 may be separate from or included with at least one of a transmission control unit, an exhaust aftertreatment control unit, a powertrain control module, an engine control unit, an engine control module, etc.

[0045] Now referring to FIG. 2, a schematic diagram of the oil system 150 and a portion of the engine 102 of the system of FIG. 1 is shown, according to an example embodiment. As described above, the oil system 150 is configured to provide a fluid to the engine 102 and receive fluid (e.g., oil) from the engine 102. As briefly described above, the fluid in the oil system 150 is oil. However, liquid water may form and leak into the oil system 150. Thus, the fluid in the oil system may include oil and water (among potentially other constituents).

[0046] Referring first to the oil system 150, the oil system 150 includes an oil supply 152, a first valve 155 (e.g., an engine passageway valve or a passageway valve), a second valve 156 (e.g., a bypass valve), an oil cooler 158, and an oil heater 159. The oil system 150 includes the oil conduit system 154 which fluidly couples each of the aforementioned components.

[0047] The oil supply 152 is or includes a reservoir (e.g., tank, container, etc.) for storing a fluid, such as oil. The oil supply 152 may be an oil pan, a sump, or other suitable container for storing the fluid. The oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the oil supply 152 to the engine 102. As briefly described above, the oil conduit system 154 may include one or more conduits, pipes, etc. for transporting the fluid. Additionally, the oil conduit system 154 may include one or more pumps, filters, or other suitable components.

[0048] The first valve 155 is positioned at or proximate the engine 102. In some embodiments, the first valve 155 is or incudes a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a solenoid valve, a globe valve, or other suitable type of valve. In some embodiments, the first valve 155 is operatively coupled to the controller 140. The controller 140 is configured to operate the first valve 155. The oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the oil supply 152to the first valve 155. The first valve 155 is configured to selectively route the fluid to one or both of an oil passage 162 or a “hot” passage of the engine 102.(0049] The oil passage 162 is a flow path defined by the engine 102. For example, the oil passage 162 may include conduits, passageways, channels, or other suitable components for routing fluid in or proximate the engine 102. The oil passage 162 is configured to route oil to one or more components of the engine 102, such as the cylinders 104. For example, when the fluid passes through the oil passage 162, the fluid may lubricate the one or more components of the engine 102 and / or provide a heat exchange (e.g., cooling) effect to the one or more components.

[0050] The “hot” passage 164 is a flow path (conduit, piping, etc.) defined by the engine 102. For example, the hot passage 164 may include conduits, passageways, channels, or other suitable components for routing fluid in or proximate the engine 102. A temperature of the hot passage 164 may be greater than the temperature of the fluid in the oil system. More specifically, the temperature of the hot passage 164 may be at or above a predetermined threshold temperature. The predetermined threshold temperature may be at or above the boiling point of water at the pressure of the fluid within the oil system. For example, when the pressure of the fluid in the oil system is 1 atmosphere, the predetermined threshold temperature may be at or above 100°C. The surface of the hot passage 164 may enable heat transfer from the engine 102 to the fluid passing therethrough. Thus, when the fluid passes through the hot passage 164, the fluid is heated by the engine 102.

[0051] The first valve 155 is operable between a plurality of positions. In the first position, the first valve 155 directs the fluid to flow to the oil passage 162. In a second position (e.g., an intermediate position), the first valve 155 directs a first portion of the fluid to flow to the oil passage 162 and a second portion of the fluid to flow to the hot passage 164. In a third position, the first valve 155 directs the fluid to flow to the hot passage 164. The second position is substantially between the first position and the third position.

[0052] The second valve 156 is disposed downstream of the engine 102. In some embodiments, the second valve 156 is or incudes a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a solenoid valve, a globe valve, or other suitable type of valve. In some embodiments, the second valve156 is operatively coupled to the controller 140. The controller 140 is configured to operate the second valve 156. The oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the engine 102 to the second valve 156. More specifically, the oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the oil passage 162 and / or the hot passage 164 to the second valve 156. The second valve 156 is configured to route fluid from the engine 102 the oil cooler 158 or to the oil supply 152. The second valve 156 is operable between a plurality of positions. In a first position, the second valve 156 routes the fluid from the engine 102 to the oil cooler 158. In a second position, the second valve 156 routes a first portion of the fluid from the engine 102 to the oil cooler 158 and a second portion of the fluid from the engine 102 to the oil supply 152. In a third position, the second valve 156 routes the fluid from the engine 102 to the oil supply 152. The second position is substantially between the first position and the third position.

[0053] The oil cooler 158 is or includes a heat exchanger that is configured to exchange heat with, and particularly cool (e.g., reduce the temperature of), the fluid in the oil system 150 passing through the oil cooler 158. The oil cooler 158 is positioned downstream of the second valve 156 and upstream of the oil supply 152. The oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the second valve 156 to the oil cooler 158. The oil conduit system 154 is configured to route the fluid from the oil cooler 158 to the oil supply 152.

[0054] The oil heater 159 is a heater, and particularly an electric heater, that is configured to heat (e.g., increase the temperature of) the fluid in the oil system 150. The oil heater 159 may receive electrical power from the battery 129 and consume the power to produce heat. As shown in FIG. 2, the oil heater 159 is disposed at or proximate the oil supply 152. However, it should be understood that the oil heater 159 may be disposed at another location in the oil system 150. For example, the oil heater 159 may be disposed at or proximate the oil conduit system 154. In some embodiments, the oil system 150 includes one or more oil heaters 159. In other embodiments, the oil system 150 does not include an oil heater 159.

[0055] In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 2, the engine system 100 may include an engine block heater 166 and / or an air heater 168. The engine block heater or “block heater” 166 is a heater, such as an electric heater, that is configured to heat the engine 102. The block heater 166 may receive electrical power from the battery 129 and consume the power toproduce heat. In some embodiments, the block heater 166 is disposed proximate the hot passage 164. air heater 168 is an electric heater that is configured to heat air at or proximate the intake conduit 110. The air heater 168 may receive electrical power from the battery 129 and consume the power to produce heat. In some embodiments, the air heater 168 is disposed at or proximate the intake conduit 110 such that the air heater 168 heats ambient air provided to the engine 102 by the intake conduit 110. In other embodiments, the engine system 100 does not include the engine block heater 166 and / or the air heater 168.

[0056] Now referring to FIG. 3, a schematic diagram of the controller 140 of the system 100 of FIG. 1 is shown, according to an example embodiment. As shown, the controller 140 includes at least one processing circuit 202 having at least one processor 204 and at least one memory device 206, an oil heating control circuit 212, and a communications interface 216. The controller 140 is structured to control operation of the other components of the system 100. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may control operation of the oil system 150, the engine 102, the electric machine 128, and / or other components of the system 100 to achieve a desired or target temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150, such that water is substantially purged or removed from the oil system 150. For example, the controller 140 may operate one or more valves, motors, actuators, heaters, or other suitable devices to increase the temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150. In this way, the controller 140 may facilitate heating the fluid in the oil system 150, thereby evaporating water in the oil system 150, such that the water is substantially purged or removed from the oil system 150. Specific processes for heating the fluid in the oil system 150 are described herein below.

[0057] In one configuration, the oil heating control circuit 212 is embodied as machine or computer-readable media storing instructions that are executable by a processor, such as processor 204. As described herein and amongst other uses, the machine-readable media facilitates performance of certain operations to enable reception and transmission of data. For example, the machine-readable media may provide an instruction (e.g., command, etc.) to, e.g., acquire data. In this regard, the machine-readable media may include programmable logic that defines the frequency of acquisition of the data (or, transmission of the data). The computer readable media instructions may include code, which may be written in any programming language including, but not limited to, Java or the like and any conventionalprocedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program code may be executed on one processor or multiple remote processors. In the latter scenario, the remote processors may be connected to each other through any type of network (e.g., CAN bus, etc.).

[0058] In another configuration, the oil heating control circuit 212 is embodied as a hardware unit, such as one or more electronic control units. As such, the oil heating control circuit 212 may be embodied as one or more circuitry components including, but not limited to, processing circuitry, network interfaces, peripheral devices, input devices, output devices, sensors, etc. In some embodiments, the oil heating control circuit 212 may take the form of one or more analog circuits, electronic circuits (e.g., integrated circuits (IC), discrete circuits, system on a chip (SOCs) circuits, microcontrollers, etc.), telecommunication circuits, hybrid circuits, and any other type of “circuit.” In this regard, the oil heating control circuit 212 may include any type of component for accomplishing or facilitating achievement of the operations described herein. For example, a circuit as described herein may include one or more transistors, logic gates (e.g., NAND, AND, NOR, OR, XOR, NOT, XNOR, etc ), resistors, multiplexers, registers, capacitors, inductors, diodes, wiring, and so on. The oil heating control circuit 212 may also include or be programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like, oil heating control circuit 212 may include one or more memory devices for storing instructions that are executable by the processor(s) of the oil heating control circuit 212. The one or more memory devices and processor(s) may have the same definition as provided below with respect to the memory device 206 and processor 204. In some hardware unit configurations, the oil heating control circuit 212 may be geographically dispersed throughout separate locations in the vehicle. Alternatively, and as shown, the oil heating control circuit 212 may be embodied in or within a single unit / housing, which is shown as the controller 140.

[0059] In the example shown, the controller 140 includes the at least one processing circuit 202 having the at least one processor 204 and the at least one memory device 206. The processing circuit 202 may be structured or configured to execute or implement the instructions, commands, and / or control processes described herein with respect to the oilheating control circuit 212. The depicted configuration represents the oil heating control circuit 212 as being embodied as machine or computer-readable media storing instructions (which may be stored by the memory device 206). However, as mentioned above, this illustration is not meant to be limiting as the present disclosure contemplates other embodiments where the oil heating control circuit 212, is configured as a hardware unit. All such combinations and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0060] The processor 204 may be implemented as one or more single- or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or suitable processors (e.g., other programmable logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. to perform the functions described herein). A processor may be a microprocessor, a group of processors, etc. A processor also may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, the one or more processors may be shared by multiple circuits (e.g., the oil heating control circuit 212 may comprise or otherwise share the same processor which, in some example embodiments, may execute instructions stored, or otherwise accessed, via different areas of memory). Alternatively or additionally, the one or more processors may be structured to perform or otherwise execute certain operations independent of one or more coprocessors. In other example embodiments, two or more processors may be coupled via a bus to enable independent, parallel, pipelined, or multi-threaded instruction execution. All such variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] The memory device 206 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. For example, the memory device 206 may include dynamic random-access memory (DRAM). The memory device 206 may be communicably connected to the processor 204 to provide computer code or instructions to the processor 204 for executing at least some of the processes described herein. Moreover, the memory device206 may be or include tangible, non-transient volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Accordingly, the memory device 206 may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described herein.100621 The communications interface 216 may include any combination of wired and / or wireless interfaces (e.g., jacks, antennas, transmitters, receivers, transceivers, wire terminals) for conducting data communications with various systems, devices, or networks structured to enable in-vehicle communications (e.g., between and among the components of the vehicle) and out-of-vehicle communications (e.g., with a remote server). For example, and regarding out-of-vehicle / system communications, the communications interface 216 may include an Ethernet card and port for sending and receiving data via an Ethernet-based communications network and / or a Wi-Fi transceiver for communicating via a wireless communications network. The communications interface 216 may be structured to communicate via local area networks or wide area networks (e.g., the Internet) and may use a variety of communications protocols (e.g., IP, LON, Bluetooth, ZigBee, radio, cellular, near field communication).

[0063] As shown in FIG. 3, the communications interface 216 may enable communication with the engine 102, the aftertreatment system 120 (and / or a component thereof), and / or the one or more sensors 125. In some embodiments, the communications interface 216 may enable communication with the electric machine 128.

[0064] The oil heating control circuit 212 is structured to enable or implement one or more controls for heating the fluid in the oil system 150. As briefly described above, a first set of controls may enable heating the fluid in the oil system 150 without changing the operation of the engine 102 or the electric machine 128, and / or without substantially consuming electrical energy stored by the battery 129. For example, the first set of controls may include actuating one or more valves. A second set of the one or more controls may include changing the operation of the engine 102 or the electric machine 128, and / or powering an electrical accessory, such as one or more heaters, by consuming electrical energy stored by the battery 129. Activating one or more of the controls for heating the fluid in the oil system 150 corresponds to an “evaporation event.” As described herein, an “evaporation event” refers to a period of time during which the one or more of the controls for heating the fluid in the oilsystem 150 are active or implemented. An end of the evaporation event may correspond to when the one or more of the controls for heating the fluid in the oil system 150 are deactivated or ceased.

[0065] The controller 140 is configured to receive an indication of an unwanted fluid, such as water, in the oil system 150. For example, the controller 140 may receive information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. In some embodiments, the indication of water in the oil system 150 is received as part of received operational data. For example, operational data may include the indication of water in the oil system 150. In other embodiments, the controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system 150 based on received information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150, such as operational data. The operational data may be indicative of the presence and / or an amount of water in the oil system 150. In an example embodiment, the controller 140 may compare one or more operational data values to a corresponding threshold. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system 150 based on the comparison. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may determine that that there is water in the oil system 150 when the amount (e.g., mass, volume, percentage) of water in the oil system 150 is at or above a predetermined threshold. By way of example, the controller 140 may determine that that there is water in the oil system 150 when a water content value (e.g., an amount of water in the oil system 150) is above a predefined value or threshold. Thus, when the amount of water in the oil system 150 is below the predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may determine that there is not water in the oil system 150 (e.g., even if there is actually a small amount of water in the oil system 150). By way of example, the controller 140 may determine that that there is not water in the oil system 150 when the water content value is at or below the predefined value or threshold. Various examples of operational data indicative of water in the oil system 150 are described herein.

[0066] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may receive operational data regarding one or more components of the system 100. The operational data may include sensor data received from one or more sensors 125. The sensor data may be real sensor data that is measured by one or more actual sensors 125 and / or virtual sensor data that is determined by one or more virtual sensors.

[0067] In some embodiments, the operational data includes a water content value regarding the oil system 150. As described herein, “content” is an amount of a substance in a predefined volume and / or in a system or component of the system 100. The content may be an absolute value, such as a mass or weight value, a relative value, such as a percentage, a concentration, or other suitable relative measurement (e.g., parts per million, molarity, molality, etc.). In an example embodiment, a water content value regarding the oil system 150 is a value indicative of an amount of water in the oil system. The controller 140 may receive the water content value from a water sensor in the oil system 150. The water sensor may acquire data regarding the water content in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system responsive to determining that the water content value is at or above a predefined water content threshold value.

[0068] In some embodiments, the operational data includes a temperature value regarding the oil system 150. The temperature value may be a temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150, such as an average temperature of the fluid or a temperature of the fluid at a location in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may receive the temperature value from a temperature sensor in the oil system 150. The temperature sensor may acquire data regarding the temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system responsive to determining that the temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150 is at or below a predetermined threshold.100691 In some embodiments, the operational data includes one or more duty cycle parameters or parameter values. The duty cycle parameters may include one or more of an engine load value, engine fueling characteristic (e.g., fuel consumption, fuel economy, etc.), an engine fueling value (e.g., an AFR or other suitable fueling value), an engine speed value, a system temperature value (e.g., an engine temperature value, an aftertreatment system temperature value, an oil system temperature value, etc.), and / or other suitable characteristic. In some embodiments, the one or more duty cycle parameters include one or more measured or estimated values. For example, the one or more duty cycle parameters may be measured by one or more real sensors 125 or determined by one or more virtual sensors 125. In some embodiments, the one or more duty cycle parameters include one or more predicted values. 1

[0070] The controller 140 may predict the one or more values using a lookup table or one or more models (e.g., statistical models, mathematical models, machine leering models, etc.) that correlate current or historical duty cycle values with the future values. Additionally, the controller 140 may use “lookahead” data to predict one or more duty cycle parameter values. The “lookahead” data relates to information regarding upcoming conditions of the system 100. In some embodiments, when the system 100 is embodied in a vehicle, the lookahead data may relate to information regarding upcoming road conditions. For example, the lookahead data may include data relating to road conditions or other parameters sensed within a predefined distance ahead of a current location of the vehicle. The “lookahead” data may also include information regarding the path of a vehicle, such as a road grade, a speed limit, street or highway names, tum-by-turn directions, refueling stations, charging stations, rest stops and / or other information regarding the path. In particular, the controller 140 may use one or more models, formulas or algorithms, and / or lookup tables that correlate lookahead data with one or more predicted duty cycle parameter values. The operational data may include one or more predicted duty cycle parameter values. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system responsive to determining that one or more duty cycle parameters is / are at or below a predetermined threshold.

[0071] In some embodiments, the operational data includes an indication that condensation has formed or is likely to form within the system 100. That is, the operational data may include information indicative of condensation forming or likely forming in the system 100. The information indicative of condensation forming or likely forming in the system 100 may include one or more temperature values (e.g., an ambient air temperature value, an engine temperature value, an oil system temperature value, or other suitable temperature value), a humidity or water content value (e.g., an ambient humidity value, an engine water content value, etc.), and / or one or more duty cycle parameter values. The controller 140 may determine that condensation has formed or is likely to form within the system 100 based on the information indicative of condensation forming or likely forming in the system 100. For example, the controller 140 may determine that condensation has formed or is likely to form within the system 100 based on one or more humidity values being at or above a predefined humidity threshold value, one or more temperature values being at or below a predefined temperature threshold value, one or more duty cycle parameter values being at or below apredetermined duty cycle threshold value, and / or a combination thereof. The operational data may include the information indicative of condensation forming or likely forming in the system 100 and / or an indication of the determination that condensation has formed or is likely to form within the system 100. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system responsive to determining that condensation has formed or is likely to form within the system 100.

[0072] In some embodiments, the operational data includes an indication of a number of engine hours that have passed since a previous evaporation event occurred. The operational data may also include duty cycle information during the time period since the previous evaporation event occurred. The controller 140 may determine that there is water in the oil system 150 responsive to determining that one or more duty cycle parameters were at or below a predetermined threshold during the time period since the previous evaporation event.

[0073] In any of the above-described embodiments, responsive to determining that there is water in the oil system 150, the controller 140 may perform one or more operations to purge the water from the oil system 150. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may receive data regarding the coolant system 170 (also referred to herein as “coolant data”). The data regarding the coolant system 170 may include a temperature value regarding the coolant within the coolant system 170. The temperature value may be a temperature of the coolant in the coolant system 170, such as an average temperature of the fluid or a temperature of the coolant at a location in the coolant system 170, such as at or proximate the engine 102. The controller 140 may compare the coolant temperature value to a predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under “hot” conditions when the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above a predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under “cold” or “cool” conditions when the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold.

[0074] Responsive to determining that the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above a predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may implement one or more of a first set of oil heater controls. The first set of oil heater controls may enable heating the fluid in the oil system 150 without changing the operation of the engine 102 or the electric machine128, and / or without substantially consuming electrical energy stored by the battery 129. For example, the first set of controls may include actuating one or more valves to change how the fluid in the oil system 150 is routed within the oil system 150.

[0075] A first oil heater control includes actuating the first valve 155 (e.g., the controller may send a control signal to the electronic first valve 155 thereby causing movement of the first valve or portion thereof, such as a valve member (e.g., a disk)) such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system is routed to the hot passage 164. In this way, the controller 140 may cause a portion of the fluid in the oil system 150 to be routed to the hot passage 164, such that the engine 102 heats the portion of the fluid passing through the hot passage 164. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may actuate the first valve 155 to adjust an amount of fluid routed to the hot passage 164. The amount of fluid routed to the hot passage 164 may be an absolute value, such as a flow rate value (e.g., mass flow rate, volumetric flow rate, etc.) or other suitable value. The amount of fluid routed to the hot passage 164 may be expressed as a relative amount of fluid routed to the hot passage 164 compared to an amount of fluid routed to the oil passage 162. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with a position of the first valve 155. The position of the first valve 155 may correspond to the amount of fluid routed to the hot passage 164. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater amounts of fluid being routed to the hot passage 164. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower amounts of fluid being routed to the hot passage 164.

[0076] A second oil heater control includes actuating the second valve 156 (e.g., the controller may send a control signal to the electronic second valve 156 thereby causing movement of the first valve or portion thereof, such as a valve member (e.g., a disk)) such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system is routed to bypass the oil cooler 158. In this way, the controller 140 substantially prevents the portion of the fluid from being cooled by the oil cooler 158. The temperature of the fluid in the oil system 150 may increase as a result (e.g., due to heat transfer from the engine 102 to the fluid flowing through the oil passage 162). In some embodiments, the controller 140 may selectively enable one or both of the first oil heater control and the second oil heater control. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may actuate the second valve 156 to adjust an amount of fluid routed to bypass the oil cooler 158. The amount of fluid routed to bypass the oil cooler 158 may be an absolute value, such as a flow rate value (e.g., mass flow rate, volumetric flow rate, etc.) or other suitable value. The amount of fluid routed to bypass the oil cooler 158 may be expressed as a relative amount of fluid routed to bypass the oil cooler 158 compared to an amount of fluid routed to the oil cooler 158. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with a position of the second valve 156. The position of the second valve 156 may correspond to the amount of fluid routed to bypass the oil cooler 158. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater amounts of fluid being routed to bypass the oil cooler 158. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower amounts of fluid being routed to bypass the oil cooler 158.

[0077] The first set of oil heater controls may be or include one or more of the first oil heater control and / or the second oil heater control. After enabling one or more of the first set of oilheater controls, the controller 140 may receive new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. As described above, the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 may include water content information, temperature information, duty cycle information, and so on. The controller 140 may keep the one or more oil heater controls active responsive to determining that there is water in the oil system 150 (e.g., based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150). In some embodiments, when the controller 140 keeps the one or more oil heater controls active, the controller 140 may adjust the position of the first valve 155 and / or the second valve 156 based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. For example, the controller 140 may use one or more of the lookup tables or models described above to adjust the position of the first valve 155 and / or the second valve 156 based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may deactivate or discontinue the one or more oil heater controls active responsive to the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 indicating that there is not water in the oil system 150 and / or that the amount of water in the oil system 150 is below a threshold value. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may “ramp down” the one or more oil heater controls. “Ramping down” one or more oil heater controls includes transitioning from an active or implemented oil heater control to a deactivated oil heater control. The transition may occur over a predetermined period of time. Ramping down the one or more oil heater controls may include adjusting the position of the first valve 155 and / or the second valve 156 based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150, as described above.

[0078] Responsive to determining that the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or below a predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may implement one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. For example, the controller 140 may actuate the first valve 155 such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system is routed to the hot passage 164 and / or actuate the second valve 156 such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system is routed to bypass the oil cooler 158. The first set of oil heater controls are described in greater detail herein.

[0079] Responsive to determining that the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or below a predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may receive operational data regarding the engine 102 (referred to herein as “engine data”). The engine data may include, for example, a temperature of the engine 102 and / or duty cycle parameter values regarding the engine 102. As described above, the duty cycle parameter values may be or include predicted duty cycle parameter values.

[0080] The controller 140 may predict, based on the received engine data, whether the engine 102 will be operating under “hot” conditions (e.g., when the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above a predetermined threshold) within a predetermined time period from an instant current moment in time. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may predict whether the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based on comparing current duty cycle information with previous duty cycle information indicative of hot conditions. The previous duty cycle information indicative of hot conditions may include a set of previous duty cycle values occurring within a predetermined time period before a hot condition. In an example implementation, the controller 140 may compare one or more current duty cycle values (e.g., one or more engine speed values, one or more engine load values, one or more engine temperature values, and so on) with the set of previous duty cycle values. Responsive to determining that a difference between the one or more current duty cycle values and the set of previous duty cycle values is less than a predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may predict that the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time.(0081] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may predict whether the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based on one or more lookahead data. For example, the lookahead data may include an indication of road characteristics, altitude, weather information (e.g., ambient temperature), traffic conditions, speed limits, and so on. The controller 140 may predict, based on the received engine data, whether the engine 102 will be operating under “hot” conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based one or more of an ambient temperature being at or above an ambient temperaturethreshold, an altitude being at or above a altitude threshold, a change in altitude over a predefined distance (e.g., a road grade) being at or above a road grade threshold, a speed limit value being at or above a speed limit threshold, and so on.

[0082] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may predict whether the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based on one or more predicted temperature values of the engine 102. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may use a model (e.g., a statistical model, a regression model, etc.) that correlates one or more previous engine temperature values of the engine 102 with one or more predicted temperature values. The one or more previous engine temperature values of the engine 102 may include a previous coolant temperature, a previous oil temperature, a previous combustion temperature, and so on. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may use a model (e.g., a statistical model, a regression model, etc.) that correlates a change in previous engine temperature values of the engine 102 over a predefined period of time with one or more predicted temperature values. The one or more predicted temperature values of the engine 102 may include a predicted coolant temperature, a predicted oil temperature, a predicted combustion temperature, and so on. The controller 140 may compare the one or more predicted temperature values of the engine 102 with a predetermined threshold. Responsive to determining that the one or more predicted temperature values of the engine 102 are at or above a predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may predict that the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time.

[0083] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may predict whether the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based on receiving an indication of a load that will be applied to the engine within the predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the load includes a compressor being operatively coupled to the engine 102, such that the compressor receives power from the engine 102. In some embodiments, the load includes the electric machine 128 being operatively coupled to the engine 102, such that the electric machine 128 receives power from the engine 102 (e.g., via the shaft 126) to charge the battery 129. In some embodiments, the load includes utilization of an agricultural implement, such as a hay baler, a front-endloader, or the like. In some embodiments, the load is coupled to the engine 102 (e.g., via a chassis, frame, or other component of a vehicle). In any of the above-described embodiments, the controller 140 may receive an indication of the load being applied to the engine and predict that the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period from the instant current moment in time based on receiving the indication.

[0084] The predetermined time period may be adjustable based on the amount of water in the oil system. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively shorter time periods. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively time periods.

[0085] Responsive to predicting that the engine 102 will be operating under “hot” conditions within the predetermined time period, the controller 140 may receive new data regarding the coolant system 170, such as a new coolant temperature value, during or immediately after the predetermined time period. The controller 140 may compare the new coolant temperature value to the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under hot conditions when the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under cool conditions when the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold.

[0086] Responsive to determining that the engine 102 is operating under hot conditions based on the new temperature value of the coolant system 170, the controller 140 may implement one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. The first set of oil heater controls are described herein above.

[0087] Responsive to determining that the engine 102 is operating under cool conditions based on the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 and / or responsive to predicting that the engine 102 will not be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period, the controller 140 may implement one or more of the second set of oil heater controls. The second set of the one or more controls may include changing the operation of the engine 102 or the electric machine 128, and / or powering an electrical accessory, such as one or more heaters, by consuming electrical energy stored by the battery 129.

[0088] A third oil heater control includes activating the oil heater 159 such that the oil heater 159 heats the fluid in the oil system 150. In this way, the controller 140 may cause the oil heater 159 to heat fluid in the oil system 150. As described above, the oil heater 159 may consume electrical energy from the battery 129. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may activate the oil heater 159 responsive to determining that a state of charge (SOC) of the battery 129 is at or above a predetermined threshold value. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may control an amount of heat (e.g., power) generated by the oil heater 159 to adjust an amount of heat transferred to the fluid in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with the amount of power output the oil heater 159. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater amounts of power output by the oil heater 159. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower amounts of power output by the oil heater 159.

[0089] A fourth oil heater control includes activating the block heater 166 such that the block heater 166 heats the engine 102. In this way, the controller 140 may cause the block heater166 to heat the engine 102. As described above, the block heater 166 may consume electrical energy from the battery 129. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may activate the block heater 166 responsive to determining that the SOC of the battery 129 is at or above a predetermined threshold value. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may control an amount of heat (e.g., power) generated by the block heater 166 to adjust an amount of heat transferred to the engine 102. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with the amount of power output the block heater 166. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater amounts of power output by the block heater 166. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower amounts of power output by the block heater 166.

[0090] A fifth oil heater control includes increasing an idle speed of the engine 102. In this way, the controller 140 may cause the engine 102 to consume more fuel when the engine 102 is idling, thereby heating the engine 102. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may adjust the idle speed of the engine 102 to increase or decrease an amount of heat generated by the engine 102 when idling. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with the engine idle speed. The engine idle speed may correspond to the heat generated by the engine 102 when idling. For example, greater engine idle speeds may correspond to greater amounts heat generated by the engine 102, and lower engine idle speeds may correspond to lower amounts heat generated by the engine 102. Information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parametervalues, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater engine idle speeds. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower engine idle speeds.

[0091] A sixth oil heater control includes causing the engine 102 to rotate the electric machine 128. Rotation of the electric machine 128 may generate electrical power to power one or more electrical accessories, such as a heater or other suitable electric accessor. In some embodiments, the rotation of the electric machine 128 may generate electrical power to charge the battery 129. That is, the controller 140 may cause the engine 102 to charge the battery 129. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may cause the engine 102 to charge the battery 129 responsive to determining that the SOC of the battery 129 is at or below a predetermined threshold value. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may adjust the speed of the engine 102 when charging the battery 129 and / or powering an electrical accessory to increase or decrease an amount of heat generated by the engine 102. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with the engine speed. The engine speed may correspond to the heat generated by the engine 102 when charging the battery 129 and / or powering an electrical accessory. For example, greater engine speeds may correspond to greater amounts heat generated by the engine 102, and lower engine speeds may correspond to lower amounts heat generated by the engine 102. Information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to greater engine speeds. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lowerindications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to relatively lower engine speeds.

[0092] A seventh oil heater control includes deactivating one or more cylinders 104 of the engine. As described herein deactivating cylinders includes changing an operating mode of one or more cylinders from “active” to “inactive” or “deactivated.” When one or more cylinders are deactivated, deactivated cylinder(s) may be inactive for predetermined number of engine cycles and / or until a predetermined condition is met. An “active” cylinder means that combustion is allowed to occur in that cylinder. An “inactive” or “deactivated” cylinder means that combustion is not allowed to occur in that cylinder. When the controller 140 deactivates one or more cylinders 104, the active cylinders operate at higher speeds at temperatures. In this way, deactivating one or more cylinders causes the temperature of the engine 102 to increase. That is, the controller 140 may cause the temperature of the engine 102 to increase by deactivating one or more cylinders 104. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may determine a number of cylinders to deactivate. The controller 140 may use one or more of a lookup table or a model (e.g., a statical model, a machine learning model, etc.) that correlates the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 with the number of cylinders. For example, information indicating a greater amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., greater water content, lower oil system temperatures, relatively lower duty cycle parameter values, relatively greater indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively longer periods between evaporation events with relatively lower duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to a greater number of cylinders 104 to deactivate. Information indicating a relatively lower amount of water in the oil system 150 (e.g., lower water content, higher oil system temperatures, relatively higher duty cycle parameter values, relatively lower indications of condensation forming in the system 100, and / or relatively shorter periods between evaporation events with relatively greater duty cycle parameter values) may correspond to a relatively lower number of cylinders 104 to deactivate. In any of the above-described embodiments, at least one cylinder is deactivated and at least one cylinder is active.

[0093] The second set of oil heater controls may be or include one or more of the fourth oil heater control, the fifth oil heater control, the sixth oil heater control, and / or the seventh oil heater control. After implementing one or more of the second set of oil heater controls, the controller 140 may receive new data regarding the coolant system 170, such as a new coolant temperature value. The controller 140 may compare the new coolant temperature value to the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under hot conditions when the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under cool conditions when the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold.

[0094] Responsive to determining that the engine 102 is operating under hot conditions based on the new temperature value of the coolant system 170, the controller 140 may implement one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. The first set of oil heater controls are described herein above.

[0095] In some embodiments, the controller 140 may receive new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. As described above, the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150 may include water content information, temperature information, duty cycle information, and so on. The controller 140 may maintain and / or ramp down the implemented oil heater controls based on the information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may keep the one or more oil heater controls active responsive to determining that there is water in the oil system 150 (e.g., based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150). The controller 140 may discontinue or ramp down the implemented second set of oil heater controls responsive to determining that there is not water in the oil system 150 and / or that the amount of water in the oil system 150 is below a threshold value (e.g., based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150). Ramping down one or more of the second set of oil heater controls may include adjusting a heat output of the oil heater 159 and / or the block heater 166, adjusting an idle speed of the engine 102, adjusting a speed of the engine when charging the battery 129, and / or adjusting a number of deactivated cylinders during a cylinderdeactivation event, based on the new information regarding the presence of water in the oil system 150, as described above.(0096] Responsive to determining that the engine 102 is operating under cool conditions based on the new temperature value of the coolant system 170 and / or responsive to predicting that the engine 102 will not be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period, the controller 140 may implement one or more of the second set of oil heater controls.100971 Now referring to FIG. 4, a flow diagram of a method 300 of enabling one or more oil heater controls is shown, according to an example embodiment. In particular, the controller 140, or a component thereof such as the oil heating control circuit 212, is structured to enabling and / or implement one or more oil heater controls. As described above, enabling and / or disabling one or more oil heater controls may correspond to an evaporation event.

[0098] At process 302, the controller 140 receives information regarding water in the oil system 150. In some embodiments, the information regarding water in the oil system 150 may include an indication of water in the oil system 150. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may determine that water is present or is likely present in the oil system based on the information regarding water in the oil system 150. For example, the controller 140 may determine that water is present or is likely present based on one sensor data and / or operational parameters regarding the engine system 100 and / or the engine 102, as described above.

[0099] At process 304, the controller 140 receives a first set of coolant data. In some embodiments, the controller 140 receives the first set of coolant data responsive to receiving the indication of water in the oil system 150. In some embodiments, the controller 140 receives the first set of coolant data responsive to determining that water is present or is likely present in the oil system based on the information regarding water in the oil system 150 and / or responsive to determining that the water content value is above a predetermined value. The coolant data may include information regarding the coolant system 170. For example, the coolant data may include a temperature value regarding the coolant within the coolant system 170. The temperature value may be a temperature of the coolant in the coolant system 170,such as an average temperature of the fluid or a temperature of the coolant at a location in the coolant system 170, such as at or proximate the engine 102.

[0100] At process 306, the controller 140 compares the coolant data to a predetermined threshold. For example, the controller 140 may compare a temperature value of the coolant system 170 to a predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may proceed to process 308 responsive to determining that the temperature value is at or above the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under “hot” conditions when the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is at or above a predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may proceed to process 313 responsive to determining that the temperature value is below the predetermined threshold. The controller 140 may determine that the engine 102 is operating under “cold” or “cool” conditions when the temperature value of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold.

[0101] At process 308, the controller 140 implements one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. The first set of oil heater controls are described in detail herein. At process 310, the controller 140 receives new information regarding water in the oil system 150. The controller 140 may receive the new information regarding water in the oil system 150 responsive to implementing one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. In some embodiments, the controller 140 may receive the new information regarding water in the oil system 150 during or after a predetermined period of time after implementing one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. In some embodiments, responsive to determining that water is present or is likely present in the oil system 150 and / or responsive to determining that the water content value is above a predetermined value, the controller 140 may remain at process 310 until additional information regarding water in the oil system 150 is received. In some embodiments, responsive to determining that water is present or is likely present in the oil system 150 and / or responsive to determining that the water content value is above the predetermined value, the controller 140 may return to process 308. In some embodiments, returning to process 308 may include ramping down the one or more implemented oil heater controls based on the new information regarding water in the oil system 150. In some embodiments, responsive to determining that water is not present in the oil system 150 and / or responsive to determining that the water content value is at or below the predetermined value,the controller 140 may continue to process 312. At process 312, the controller 140 discontinues the implemented oil heater controls.

[0102] At process 313, the controller 140 implements one or more of the first set of oil heater controls. The first set of oil heater controls are described in detail herein.

[0103] At process 314, the controller 140 receives engine data. The engine data may include, for example, a temperature of the engine 102 and / or duty cycle parameter values regarding the engine 102. As described above, the duty cycle parameter values may be or include predicted duty cycle parameter values. The controller 140 may receive the engine data responsive to implementing one or more of the first set of oil heater controls at process 313 and / or responsive to determining that the temperature value is below the temperature threshold. At process 316, the controller 140 determines a future engine temperature. More specifically, the controller 140 predicts, based on the received engine data, whether the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within a predetermined time period. In some embodiments, responsive to determining that the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period the controller 140 proceeds to process 320. In some embodiments, responsive to determining that the engine 102 will be operating under cool conditions within the predetermined time period, the controller 140 proceeds to process 324.

[0104] In some embodiments, process 314 and process 316 are optional. In these embodiments, the controller 140 may proceed to process 320 responsive to determining that the first coolant temperature value is below the predetermined threshold.]0.l 05] At process 320, the controller 140 receives a second set of coolant data. In some embodiments, the second set of coolant data is received responsive to determining that the engine 102 will be operating under hot conditions within the predetermined time period. In these embodiments, the controller 140 may receive the second set of coolant data during or after the predetermined time period. The second set of coolant data may include a second temperature value of the coolant system 170. At process 322, the controller 140 compares the second set of coolant data to a predetermined threshold. For example, the controller 140 may compare the second temperature value of the coolant system 170 to the predeterminedthreshold. Responsive to determining that the temperature of the coolant system 170 is at or above the predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may proceed to process 310.Responsive to determining that the temperature of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold, the controller 140 proceeds to process 324.|0106| At process 324, the controller 140 implements one or more of the second set of oil heater controls. The second set of oil heater controls are described in detail herein. In some embodiments, when the implemented oil heater control of the second set of oil heater controls heats the engine 102, the controller 140 may proceed to process 326. In some embodiments, when the implemented oil heater control of the second set of oil heater controls heats the fluid in the oil system 150, the controller 140 may proceed to process 330.10.1071 At process 326, the controller 140 receives a third set of coolant data responsive to implementing one or more of the second set of oil heater controls. The third set of coolant data may include a third temperature value of the coolant system 170. At process 328, the controller 140 compares the third set of coolant data to a predetermined threshold. For example, the controller 140 may compare the third temperature value of the coolant system 170 to the predetermined threshold. Responsive to determining that the temperature of the coolant system 170 is at or above the predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may proceed to process 310. Responsive to determining that the temperature of the coolant system 170 is below the predetermined threshold, the controller 140 may keep the implemented oil heater controls active and return to process 326.

[0108] As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0109] It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

[0110] The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using one or more separate intervening members, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic. For example, circuit A communicably “coupled” to circuit B may signify that the circuit A communicates directly with circuit B (i.e., no intermediary) or communicates indirectly with circuit B (e.g., through one or more intermediaries).

[0111] References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.10.1121 While various circuits with particular functionality are shown in FIG. 3, it should be understood that the controller 140 may include any number of circuits for completing the functions described herein. For example, the activities and functionalities of the oil heating control circuit 212 may be combined in multiple circuits or as a single circuit. Additionalcircuits with additional functionality may also be included. Further, the controller 140 may further control other activity beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0113] As mentioned above and in one configuration, the “circuits” may be implemented in machine-readable medium for execution by one or more of various types of processors, such as the processor 204 of FIG. 3. Executable code may, for instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions, which may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables need not be physically located together, but may comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joined logically together, comprise the circuit and achieve the stated purpose for the circuit. Indeed, a circuit of computer readable program code may be a single instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustrated herein within circuits, and may be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a single data set or may be distributed over different locations including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network.

[0114] While the term “processor” is briefly defined above, the term “processor” and “processing circuit” are meant to be broadly interpreted. In this regard and as mentioned above, the “processor” may be implemented as one or more processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other suitable electronic data processing components structured to execute instructions provided by memory. The one or more processors may take the form of a single core processor, multi-core processor (e.g., a dual core processor, triple core processor, quad core processor, etc.), microprocessor, etc. In some embodiments, the one or more processors may be external to the apparatus, for example the one or more processors may be a remote processor (e.g., a cloud based processor). Alternatively or additionally, the one or more processors may be internal and / or local to the apparatus. In this regard, a given circuit or components thereof may be disposed locally (e.g., as part of a local server, a local computing system, etc.) or remotely (e.g., as part of a remote server such as a cloud basedserver). To that end, a “circuit” as described herein may include components that are distributed across one or more locations.

[0115] Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising computer or machine-readable media for carrying or having computer or machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. The computer readable medium may be a tangible computer readable storage medium storing the computer readable program code. The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, holographic, micromechanical, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of the computer readable medium may include but are not limited to a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disc (DVD), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a holographic storage medium, a micromechanical storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain, and / or store computer readable program code for use by and / or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a computer or processing machine to perform a certain function or group of functions.

[0116] The computer readable medium may also be a computer readable signal medium. A computer readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electrical, electro-magnetic, magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium may be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport computer readable program code for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. Computer readable program code embodied on a computerreadable signal medium may be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, Radio Frequency (RF), or the like, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0117] In one embodiment, the computer readable medium may comprise a combination of one or more computer readable storage mediums and one or more computer readable signal mediums. For example, computer readable program code may be both propagated as an electro-magnetic signal through a fiber optic cable for execution by a processor and stored on RAM storage device for execution by the processor.

[0118] Computer readable program code for carrying out operations for aspects of the present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more other programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone computer- readable package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0119] The program code may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the schematic flowchart diagrams and / or schematic block diagrams block or blocks.

[0120] Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations arewithin the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.10.1211 It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the apparatus and system as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system comprising: an oil system coupled to an engine; and a controller coupled to the oil system and the engine, the controller comprising one or more processors and one or more memory devices storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to perform operations comprising: receiving information regarding fluid in the oil system; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature value occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding the operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of: determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is at or below the predetermined temperature value.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the controller to perform operations comprising: receiving, from the one or more sensors, a third temperature value regarding the operation of the engine after implementing one or more of the second set of the heater controls; and implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the controller to perform operations comprising deactivating one or more heater controls of the second set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the fluid is water.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the engine is a hydrogen fueled internal combustion engine.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, further cause the controller to perform operations comprising implementing one or more of the first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is below the predetermined temperature threshold; wherein the first set of engine data regarding the operation of the engine is received responsive to at least one of implementing one or more of the first set of heater controls or determining that the first temperature value is below the predetermined temperature threshold.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the first set of heater controls comprises actuating a valve such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system is routed to a hot passage of the engine, such that the engine heats the portion of the fluid passing through the hot passage.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the first set of heater controls comprises actuating a valve such that at least a portion of the fluid in the oil system bypasses an oil cooler.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the second set of heater controls comprises activating an oil heater to heat the fluid in the oil system.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the second set of heater controls comprises activating a block heater coupled to the engine such that the block heater heats the engine.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the second set of heater controls comprises increasing an idle speed of the engine to increase a temperature of the engine.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the second set of heater controls comprises causing the engine to rotate an electric machine to generate electrical power.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the second set of heater controls comprises deactivating one or more cylinders of the engine.

14. A method comprising: receiving information regarding a fluid in an oil system coupled to an engine; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature value occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time;receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding the operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of: determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is below the predetermined temperature value.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: receiving, from the one or more sensors, a third temperature value regarding the operation of the engine after implementing one or more of the second set of the heater controls; and implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising deactivating one or more heater controls of the second set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the information regarding the fluid in the oil system comprises at least one of: a water content value indicative of an amount of water in the oil system received from a water sensor; a temperature value regarding the oil system being below a predetermined threshold; oran indication that condensation has formed or is likely to form based on at least one of an ambient air temperature value, an engine temperature value, or an oil system temperature value.

18. A non-transitory computer readable media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: receiving information regarding a fluid in an oil system coupled to an engine; receiving, from one or more sensors, a first temperature value regarding the engine; implementing one or more of a first set of heater controls responsive to determining that the first temperature value is at or above a predetermined temperature threshold; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a first set of engine data regarding operation of the engine; determining, based on the first set of engine data, a future temperature value of the engine, the future temperature value occurring within a predetermined time period relative to a current moment in time; receiving, from the one or more sensors, a second temperature value regarding operation of the engine, the second temperature value received during or after the predetermined time period; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the second temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and implementing one or more of a second set of the heater controls responsive to at least one of: determining that the second temperature value is below the predetermined temperature value, or determining that the future temperature value of the engine is below the predetermined temperature value.

19. The non-transitory computer readable media of claim 18, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform further operations comprising:receiving, from the one or more sensors, a third temperature value regarding operation of the engine after implementing one or more of the second set of the heater controls; implementing one or more of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold; and deactivating the implemented heater controls of the second set of the heater controls responsive to determining that the third temperature value is at or above the predetermined temperature threshold.

20. The non-transitory computer readable media of claim 18, wherein the instructions, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform further operations comprising: receiving information regarding the fluid in the oil system; and discontinuing the implemented heater controls of the first set of the heater controls responsive to determining that a water content value is at or below a predefined value in the oil system.

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