Encoder Merging Crankshaft Position and Phase Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing systems for distributing rotational information, such as crankshaft position and engine phase signals, in internal combustion engines are complex and expensive due to the need for separate hardwired networks for position and phase signals.

Innovation Solution

Combining the position pulse train signal and phase signal using an encoder that adjusts voltage levels based on the phase signal, creating a single common signal that carries both types of information, thus eliminating the need for multiple distribution networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate hardwired distribution networks are used for position pulse train signal and phase signal, then signal distribution is reliable, but device complexity and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal distribution reliabilityVSAvoiddistribution system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the position pulse train signal and phase signal into a single common signal by multiplexing them on one distribution network. The encoder outputs both signals through a single channel, eliminating the need for separate hardwired networks while maintaining signal integrity and distribution reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The common distribution network is designed to carry multiple types of rotational information simultaneously - both position data from the pulse train signal and phase data from the phase signal. This multi-functional approach allows a single network to replace multiple dedicated networks, reducing complexity without sacrificing reliability.

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

2Measurement precision

If separate hardwired distribution networks are used for position pulse train signal and phase signal, then signal integrity is maintained, but installation cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal accuracyVSAvoidinstallation cost and complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges position and phase signals into a single common signal stream that can be distributed over one network. This combining approach reduces the number of physical connections required during installation, lowering both labor costs and material requirements while preserving the accuracy of both signal types through proper encoding and transmission protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple distribution networks are used for rotational information, then signal distribution is comprehensive, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal distribution coverageVSAvoidnetwork complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The common distribution network is designed to be universal, capable of carrying both position pulse train signals and phase signals simultaneously. This multi-functional network provides comprehensive coverage for all rotational information needs without requiring multiple specialized networks, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining full adaptability.

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

Data Source

PatentEP2635787B1An arrangement for handling rotational information of an internal combustion engine
Publication Date: 2015.01.21 WARTSILA FINLAND OY
  • EP2635787B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

The invention combines a position pulse train signal and a phase signal. In this way only one hardwired distribution network is needed for the devices using the signals. The invention comprises an encoder (2) that combine the signals in such a way that the offset of the pulse train signal depends on the phase signal.