Adaptive Fan Control Using Engine Oil Temperature History
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cooling systems in vehicles inefficiently use fans, leading to unnecessary energy loss and torque reduction due to constant set-temperatures that do not account for varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
Adjusting the set-temperature of the coolant based on maximum engine oil temperatures from previous driving cycles to optimize fan operation, using a control arrangement that monitors and adapts the set-temperature according to the vehicle's specific conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the fan is actuated when the coolant temperature is above a predetermined set-temperature, then the engine cooling function is ensured, but the energy consumption increases and unnecessary cooling occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the set-temperature adaptive rather than fixed. The control arrangement continuously monitors engine oil temperature during driving cycles and adjusts the fan activation threshold dynamically based on actual operating conditions. This allows the cooling system to adapt to varying thermal loads, activating the fan only when truly necessary and avoiding unnecessary energy consumption while ensuring adequate cooling when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using the control arrangement to monitor engine oil temperature and use this information to adjust the set-temperature for fan activation. The system creates a closed-loop control where past thermal behavior (engine oil temperature history) informs future fan operation decisions, optimizing the balance between cooling performance and energy consumption based on actual vehicle operating conditions.
2Temperature
If the fan is used frequently to maintain low coolant temperature, then the engine cooling performance is improved, but the torque loss increases due to crankshaft connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by dynamically adjusting the fan activation threshold based on actual engine operating conditions through monitoring engine oil temperature. Instead of using a fixed conservative threshold that causes frequent fan activation and torque loss, the system adapts the threshold to match real thermal conditions, reducing unnecessary fan operation and associated torque loss while maintaining adequate cooling performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of set-temperature from a fixed value to an adaptive value that varies based on engine oil temperature measurements. This parameter change allows the system to optimize the trade-off between cooling performance and torque loss by adjusting the fan activation threshold according to actual thermal loads, reducing unnecessary fan operation during mild operating conditions.
3Device complexity
If a fixed set-temperature is used for fan activation, then the control system is simple, but the cooling system cannot adapt to varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the static set-temperature into a dynamic parameter that adapts to varying operating conditions. The control arrangement monitors engine oil temperature over driving cycles and adjusts the fan activation threshold accordingly, enabling the cooling system to respond appropriately to different thermal loads while adding only minimal complexity through temperature monitoring and adaptive threshold adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the cooling system to automatically adjust its own operation parameters based on monitored engine conditions. The control arrangement uses engine oil temperature data to autonomously determine optimal fan activation thresholds without requiring external intervention, allowing the system to adapt to varying operating conditions while maintaining simple operation for the user.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Improves energy efficiency and reduces wear by tailoring fan usage to the vehicle's actual operating conditions, minimizing unnecessary cooling and energy consumption.
Implementation Method 1
Hot coolant is pumped out from the cooling passages in the engine to a radiator, where the coolant exchanges heat with the surrounding air and is cooled down before it is returned to the engine
Implementation Method 2
the coolant exchanges heat with the surrounding air
Implementation Method 3
A fan may be used to provide an airflow through the radiator to cool it adequately
Data Source
AI summary
A method and control arrangement for controlling operation of a fan in a cooling system of a vehicle, wherein operation of the fan is controlled based on a temperature of a coolant in the coolant system meeting a set-temperature of the coolant. The method comprises monitoring an engine oil temperature of an engine of the vehicle during a plurality of driving cycles with the vehicle; and adjusting the set-temperature of the coolant based on a measure indicative of a plurality of maximum temperatures of the engine oil during the plurality of driving cycles.