Construction Machine Engine Control for Auxiliary Power Fuel Savings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional construction machines with auxiliary power devices cannot achieve optimum fuel efficiency corresponding to changes in engine revolutions per minute (RPM).

Innovation Solution

The apparatus and method involve a fuel efficiency map with torque and fuel efficiency curves to determine the optimal engine RPM or torque curve adjustments when auxiliary power is provided, comparing expected fuel efficiency gains from RPM reduction and torque curve changes to select the most efficient control method.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If auxiliary power is provided to reduce engine load, then engine RPM can be changed, but optimum fuel efficiency corresponding to the changed engine RPM cannot be implemented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel efficiencyVSAvoidadaptability to changed engine RPM
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus dynamically adjusts engine control parameters based on real-time operating conditions. When auxiliary power is provided, the system detects the change in engine load and RPM, then dynamically modifies fuel injection timing, air intake control, and other parameters to maintain optimal fuel efficiency across varying RPM ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes multiple control parameters simultaneously in response to auxiliary power activation. This includes adjusting fuel injection quantity, injection timing, air intake valve timing, and turbocharger control parameters to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency at the new operating point with reduced load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If engine RPM is decreased due to auxiliary power, then fuel efficiency can be improved, but the control system cannot adapt to the new RPM conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy lossVSAvoidautomatic adaptation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus continuously monitors engine operating parameters including RPM, load, and fuel consumption. When auxiliary power is provided and RPM decreases, the feedback mechanism detects this change and automatically adjusts control parameters to optimize fuel efficiency at the lower RPM, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control system automatically manages its own optimization without external intervention. The ECU self-adjusts fuel injection, air intake, and other parameters based on detected operating conditions, enabling the engine to self-optimize fuel efficiency when auxiliary power changes the operating point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3318680B1Apparatus and method for controlling a construction machine
Publication Date: 2021.10.13 HD HYUNDAI INFRACORE CO LTD
  • EP3318680B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3318680B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3318680B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a construction machine. An apparatus for controlling a construction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention may compare a fuel efficiency gain expected when engine revolutions per minute (RPM) is decreased with a fuel efficiency gain expected when a current torque curve is changed to a torque curve corresponding to a condition in which auxiliary power is provided and selected from among the plurality of torque curves and then the latter torque curve is selectively applied, based on the fuel efficiency map, and may control an engine by means of a method by which a larger fuel efficiency gain is expected.