EGR Valve Control Adaptation for Aging Wear

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing EGR valve control systems fail to account for changes in predefined parameters due to aging and wear, leading to variations in emissions during mode switching between closed loop and open loop control.

Innovation Solution

A control system that monitors engine speed and load, determines Carbon Monoxide levels, and adjusts open loop parameters of the EGR valve based on these conditions, switching between control modes to maintain optimal emission control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If predefined parameters for EGR valve control are set during engine calibration, then the EGR valve can be controlled in a closed-loop mode, but the parameters vary during engine operation due to aging and wear, causing emission variations during mode switching

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEGR valve control stabilityVSAvoidParameter adaptability to aging
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static predefined parameters to dynamic parameter adjustment. The controller continuously monitors EGR valve performance and adapts open-loop parameters based on actual behavior, allowing the system to evolve with component aging while maintaining reliable emission control

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the controller monitors EGR valve response characteristics and uses this information to adjust control parameters. The system observes actual EGR flow versus commanded position and modifies open-loop parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop adaptation process that maintains reliability despite component degradation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If the EGR valve switches between closed-loop and open-loop control modes, then the control system can operate efficiently across different conditions, but emissions are impacted during the switching transitions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveControl system efficiencyVSAvoidEmission variations during switching
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by preparing smooth transition profiles before mode switching occurs. The controller pre-calculates ramp-up and ramp-down parameters for EGR valve position changes, ensuring that transitions between control modes are gradual and emission-friendly rather than abrupt

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements periodic action through controlled cycling between open-loop and closed-loop modes with smooth transitions. The system uses periodic monitoring of EGR valve performance and switches modes at optimal intervals, maintaining efficiency while minimizing emission impacts through controlled, rhythmic operation rather than erratic switching

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS9593632B2System and method for operating an exhaust gas recirculation valve
Publication Date: 2017.03.14 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9593632B2 patent drawing
  • US9593632B2 patent drawing
  • US9593632B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of operating an Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve of an engine is provided. The method includes monitoring an operating condition of the engine based at least on a speed of the engine and a load of the engine. The method also includes determining an amount of Carbon Monoxide (CO) in an exhaust from the engine and comparing the amount of CO with a threshold CO value. The method further includes adjusting open loop parameters of the EGR valve based on the comparison during a predetermined operating condition for the engine. The EGR valve is controlled based on the open loop parameters during switching between a closed loop control and an open loop control of the EGR valve.