Dual EGR Flow Paths for Flexible Exhaust Gas Recirculation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine systems lack flexibility and performance in controlling exhaust gas recirculation, necessitating improved methods and systems for recirculating exhaust gas effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dual EGR flow path system with independent high-pressure exhaust recirculation paths, including an EGR cooler and bypass configurations, controlled by a controller using sensors for optimal intake manifold pressure and temperature management, to enhance emissions reduction and drive cycle performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single EGR flow path is used, then the system structure is simple, but the flexibility and performance in controlling exhaust gas recirculation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The EGR system is divided into multiple independent flow paths (first EGR flow path and second EGR flow path) that can operate independently or in combination. Each flow path has its own control valve, allowing selective activation based on operating conditions. This segmentation provides flexibility in controlling exhaust gas recirculation while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
2Productivity
If multiple EGR flow paths are implemented, then control flexibility and performance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The EGR system incorporates dynamically controllable flow paths with valves that can adjust or completely block each path based on real-time operating conditions. The controller selectively activates the first EGR flow path, second EGR flow path, or both simultaneously, enabling adaptive control of exhaust gas recirculation to optimize performance across different engine operating regimes.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If EGR cooler is always used, then emissions reduction is effective, but intake manifold temperature may be too low for optimal combustion
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides different thermal characteristics in different flow paths by selectively routing exhaust gas through the EGR cooler only when needed. The first EGR flow path can be configured to pass through the cooler for emissions reduction, while the second EGR flow path can bypass the cooler to maintain higher intake temperatures. This local quality approach allows tailored thermal management based on specific operating requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the thermal parameter of recirculated exhaust gas by selectively controlling which flow path is active. When the first EGR flow path is selected, the exhaust gas is cooled for emissions control. When the second EGR flow path is selected, the exhaust gas maintains higher temperature for combustion optimization. This parameter change capability allows the system to adapt to varying thermal requirements.
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 allows for precise control of EGR flow, improving engine performance, reducing emissions, and optimizing intake conditions by selectively using hot and cold EGR paths, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and flexibility of exhaust gas recirculation.
Implementation Method 1
The return line creates the flow path that directs the recirculated exhaust to an EGR cooler provided in the flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) in an internal combustion engine are provided. The EGR system includes a first EGR flow path and a second EGR flow path independent of the first EGR flow path that are each configured to recirculate high pressure exhaust from the exhaust system back to the engine intake system. The system includes a controller in operable communication with the EGR system configured to selectively control an amount of EGR flow through at least one of the first and second EGR flow paths.