Vehicle Cylinder Deactivation Controller for Reverse Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cylinder deactivation in vehicles during reverse operation mode is not effectively managed, leading to unwanted speed excursions and reduced fuel efficiency, while also affecting exhaust gas temperatures, which can impair catalyst efficiency in exhaust aftertreatment systems.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a controller-based system that determines when a vehicle is in reverse operation and initiates a cylinder deactivation mode, dynamically adjusting the number of active cylinders to maintain optimal exhaust gas temperatures and prevent excessive speed, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and catalyst activity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If cylinder deactivation is not implemented during reverse operation, then engine power and speed control are maintained, but fuel consumption increases and exhaust gas temperatures drop

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel consumptionVSAvoidengine power
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the number of active cylinders based on vehicle operating conditions, specifically implementing cylinder deactivation when the vehicle is in reverse gear. This dynamic configuration allows the engine to reduce power output and fuel consumption during reverse operation while maintaining adequate power when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control system changes the operational parameters of the engine by deactivating specific cylinders during reverse operation. This parameter change reduces the effective displacement and power output of the engine, thereby reducing fuel consumption during reverse gear operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Speed

If all cylinders remain active during reverse operation, then engine power is sufficient, but unwanted speed excursions occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle speed controlVSAvoidengine power
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts engine power output by deactivating cylinders during reverse operation, preventing excessive speed increases while maintaining sufficient power for normal operation. The control system monitors vehicle conditions and adjusts cylinder activation accordingly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If cylinder deactivation is implemented during reverse operation, then fuel efficiency improves, but exhaust gas temperatures decrease affecting catalyst efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel efficiencyVSAvoidexhaust gas temperature
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The control system uses feedback from temperature sensors and operating conditions to determine when to activate or deactivate cylinders. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain exhaust gas temperatures within the optimal range for catalyst operation while still achieving fuel efficiency benefits during reverse operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts operational parameters including cylinder activation state based on exhaust gas temperature feedback, ensuring that catalyst efficiency is maintained while achieving fuel savings during reverse operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Use of energy by moving object

If cylinder deactivation control is added to the vehicle system, then fuel consumption and speed control improve, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel consumptionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system integrates multiple functions including cylinder deactivation control, speed excursion prevention, and exhaust temperature management into a single integrated controller. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity despite the added capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11486321B2Systems and methods for utilizing cylinder deactivation when a vehicle is in a reverse operating mode
Publication Date: 2022.11.01 TULA TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US11486321B2 patent drawing
  • US11486321B2 patent drawing
  • US11486321B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A controller for a vehicle includes at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the controller to perform various operations. The operations include determining that the vehicle is in reverse and in response, deactivating a cylinder of an engine of the vehicle.