Coolant Circuit Virtual Mass Flow Sensing From Pressure Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calculating the target rotational speed of a coolant pump in complex cooling circuits are inefficient and require extensive calibration and high computing power, failing to compensate for model errors and being unsuitable for systems with multiple valves and pumps.
Innovation Solution
A method using a virtual mass flow sensor, implemented as a mathematical model or characteristic map, determines a simulated current mass flow in a coolant circuit based on pressure data, allowing for the adjustment of a target mass flow without the need for physical mass flow sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If prior art methods using characteristic maps and viscosity correction factors are used to calculate target rotational speed, then the coolant pump control can be implemented, but the system requires immense calibration effort and high computing power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual mass flow sensor that copies the function of a physical mass flow sensor using mathematical models. Instead of using complex characteristic maps requiring immense calibration, the system uses a simplified model that calculates mass flow based on pressure differential measurements, thereby reducing calibration effort while maintaining control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical measurement system (physical mass flow sensor) with a computational approach (virtual sensor using pressure differential measurements and mathematical models). This substitution eliminates the need for complex characteristic maps and viscosity correction factors, significantly reducing computing power requirements while maintaining accuracy
2Adaptability or versatility
If prior art methods are used in complex cooling circuits with multiple valves and pumps, then control can be attempted, but the methods are unsuitable and require extensive calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The virtual mass flow sensor uses a universal mathematical model that can be applied to any cooling circuit configuration regardless of complexity. The model works with multiple valves, pumps, and circuit topologies without requiring separate calibration for each configuration, making the system universally applicable while minimizing calibration requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mass flow measurement (requiring complex sensors and calibration) to pressure differential measurement (using simple pressure sensors). This parameter change enables the system to adapt to complex cooling circuits without extensive calibration, as pressure measurements are easier to obtain and model across various circuit configurations
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
This approach enables accurate determination of the simulated current mass flow, allowing for effective regulation of coolant temperature and reducing the complexity and cost associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
Pressure data are received, in particular a first pressure in the coolant circuit and a second pressure in the coolant circuit, wherein the first pressure is provided from a first pressure sensor and the second pressure is provided from a second pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for determining a simulated current mass flow (m_IV), in particular as a substitute for a current mass flow (m_IM) that cannot be measured in a field/production vehicle, in a coolant circuit (10) for heating/cooling a component (20) to be heated/cooled, the method comprising the steps of: receiving pressure data (D_P), wherein the pressure data (D_P) comprise a first pressure (p1) in the coolant circuit (10) and a second pressure (p2) in the coolant circuit (10), wherein the first pressure (p1) is provided from a first pressure-measuring point and the second pressure (p2) is provided from a second pressure-measuring point, or the pressure data (D_P) comprise a pressure differential (Δp) in the coolant circuit (10), wherein the pressure differential (Δp) between the first pressure-measuring point and the second pressure-measuring point is provided; wherein the first pressure-measuring point is upstream of the second pressure-measuring point and wherein the first pressure-measuring point and the second pressure-measuring point are in the same coolant path of the coolant circuit (10); determining the simulated current mass flow (m_IV) of the coolant with the aid of a mathematical model (M) which is suitable for determining the current mass flow based on the pressure data (D_P).