Ambient Noise-Based Engine Diagnostic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine diagnostic systems, such as those used in hybrid vehicles, generate undesirable noise during evaporative emissions system diagnostics, which can disturb drivers and bystanders, and it is challenging to mask this noise effectively, especially when the engine is off or during low engine operation.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes autonomous vehicle sensors to determine ambient noise levels and human proximity to the vehicle, allowing engine diagnostics to be conducted only when the ambient noise is above a certain threshold, thereby minimizing the disturbance caused by the diagnostic equipment's noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If evaporative emissions diagnostic is conducted using pump and servo motor, then emissions system integrity is verified, but audible noise is generated that disturbs drivers and bystanders
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts pump operation based on real-time ambient noise conditions. When ambient noise exceeds a threshold, the pump operates in a cycled manner (on/off periods) rather than continuously, adapting its operation to minimize noise disturbance while still completing the diagnostic function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters of the pump based on ambient noise levels. The control module monitors ambient noise and adjusts pump duty cycle, operation timing, and intensity accordingly, transforming the pump's operational characteristics to balance diagnostic effectiveness with noise reduction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If diagnostic is performed when engine is off to reduce noise, then noise disturbance is reduced, but vacuum generation capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary approach by using the electric pump as a supplemental vacuum source rather than relying solely on engine vacuum. The pump can operate independently or in conjunction with engine vacuum, providing the necessary vacuum generation capability when the engine is off while maintaining noise control through cycled operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic action by cycling the pump on and off during operation. This periodic operation allows the pump to generate necessary vacuum in intervals rather than continuously, enabling sufficient vacuum generation for diagnostic purposes while reducing overall noise exposure and energy consumption.
3Productivity
If pump operates continuously to complete diagnostic quickly, then diagnostic speed is improved, but noise disturbance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by implementing a cycled pump operation pattern with on and off periods. This allows the diagnostic to progress through multiple cycles rather than requiring continuous high-intensity operation, maintaining diagnostic completion while significantly reducing noise disturbance during off periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module dynamically adjusts pump operation timing and duration based on ambient noise conditions and diagnostic progress. The system can accelerate or decelerate the diagnostic pace dynamically, increasing pump operation during low-noise periods and reducing operation during high-noise periods to optimize both speed and noise control.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for conducting an engine diagnostic for a vehicle based on an amount of noise proximate to the vehicle. In one example, a method (or system) for a vehicle may include determining an ambient noise level surrounding the vehicle based on data received from autonomous vehicle sensors and conducting an engine diagnostic by operating a pump, motor, and/or actuators responsive to the determined ambient noise level. The engine diagnostic may be conducted while the vehicle is keyed off or while the engine is running and may be further conducted based on a proximity of human activity to the vehicle.