Diesel Emission Control via Torque and Transmission Intervention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Diesel vehicles face challenges in reducing nitrogen oxide emissions, particularly during non-optimal operating conditions such as cold starts, where existing methods like selective catalytic reduction and catalytic converters are less effective, and there is a need for real-time interventions to limit emissions without compromising ride comfort or fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that use sensor measurements to determine if nitrogen oxide emissions are approaching a threshold, allowing for automated or driver-instructed interventions in torque demand or transmission settings to prevent excessive emissions, including real-time feedback and recommendations to drivers to adjust their driving style, thereby reducing emissions without impacting ride comfort or fuel consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If automated torque intervention or transmission shifting is implemented to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, then emissions are effectively limited, but ride comfort may be compromised due to automatic control actions
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors nitrogen oxide emissions through sensor measurements and feedback loops, comparing actual emissions against threshold values. When emissions approach or exceed the threshold, the control unit automatically intervenes by adjusting torque demand or transmission ratio. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables real-time emission control while maintaining ride comfort through smooth, adaptive adjustments rather than abrupt interventions.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If real-time emission monitoring and intervention systems are implemented, then nitrogen oxide emissions are reduced, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it manages normal engine operation, monitors nitrogen oxide emissions through sensor inputs, compares emissions against stored threshold values, and executes emission-reducing interventions by adjusting torque or transmission. This multi-functionality consolidates emission control capabilities within existing vehicle control architecture, avoiding the need for separate dedicated emission control systems and thereby limiting additional complexity.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If driver instructions or haptic feedback are used to reduce emissions, then driver awareness and compliance improve, but response time may be delayed compared to automated intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The system empowers drivers with real-time feedback through haptic actuators, acoustic signals, or visual displays that indicate when emissions are approaching threshold values. This self-service approach allows drivers to voluntarily adjust their driving behavior—such as reducing accelerator input or changing gears—to keep emissions below thresholds. While response time depends on driver reaction, the system maintains effectiveness by providing clear, timely guidance without requiring forced automated intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions of a diesel vehicle. In this context, first state variables of the diesel vehicle are measured with the aid of sensors of the diesel vehicle, and using an arithmetic unit, it is ascertained, as a function of the first state variables, if the nitrogen oxide emissions are exceeding a predetermined threshold, or using the arithmetic unit, it is predicted, as a function of the first state variables, if the nitrogen oxide emissions will exceed the predetermined threshold. If exceedance of the threshold is calculated or predicted, then an intervention in the current torque demand of the diesel vehicle and/or an intervention in the current transmission ratio or setting of a transmission of the diesel vehicle is ascertained by the arithmetic unit; the intervention contributing to a reduction in the nitrogen oxide emissions to a value below the threshold.