Particulate Filter Regeneration Scavenging Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for particulate filter regeneration in vehicles with turbochargers do not always provide optimal results, particularly due to soot buildup and varying operating conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that utilize sensors to monitor soot and temperature data, determining when regeneration is needed and performing scavenging by selectively opening intake and exhaust valves to heat the particulate filter, adjusting the intensity and duration of scavenging based on these conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional particulate filter regeneration methods are used, then the filter can be regenerated, but the regeneration is not optimal under varying operating conditions and soot buildup levels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparticulate filter regeneration effectivenessVSAvoidadaptability to varying operating conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts scavenging parameters (intake valve timing, exhaust valve timing, boost pressure) based on real-time sensor data including soot loading levels and operating conditions. This allows the regeneration process to adapt to varying conditions rather than using fixed conventional methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses sensor data feedback loops to monitor soot concentration, temperature, and operating parameters during regeneration. The control system continuously adjusts scavenging intensity based on this feedback to optimize regeneration effectiveness under different conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If scavenging is performed with valve overlap to heat the particulate filter, then regeneration efficiency improves, but the system complexity increases due to coordinated valve control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregeneration speedVSAvoidvalve control system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The existing intake and exhaust valves of the turbocharger system are used for dual purposes: normal engine operation and regeneration scavenging. This eliminates the need for additional dedicated valves or complex regeneration-specific hardware

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of existing valves (timing, duration, overlap) to achieve scavenging effect during regeneration, rather than adding new mechanical components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If scavenging intensity is increased to remove soot faster, then regeneration effectiveness improves, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoot removal effectivenessVSAvoidenergy consumption during scavenging
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The scavenging intensity is dynamically adjusted based on real-time soot loading measurements and regeneration progress. The system increases intensity only when needed and reduces it when soot levels are low, optimizing energy usage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 ensures effective regeneration of the particulate filter, reducing soot loading and maintaining engine performance by optimizing scavenging intensity and duration based on real-time data, leading to cleaner exhaust and improved engine efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

heating the particulate filter is heated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

exhaust temperature

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvection: Convection

Implementation Method 3

scavenging is performed by selectively moving the intake valve and the exhaust valve to generate a valve overlap therebetween

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure gradient: Pressure Gradient

Data Source

PatentUS11686264B1Scavenging for particulate filter regeneration
Publication Date: 2023.06.27 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US11686264B1 patent drawing
  • US11686264B1 patent drawing
  • US11686264B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In accordance with exemplary embodiments, methods and systems are provided for controlling particulate filter regeneration for a particulate filter of a drive system of a vehicle, including: obtaining sensor data pertaining to the drive system via one or more sensors of the vehicle; determining, via a processor of the vehicle, when particulate filter regeneration is warranted, using the sensor data; and providing particulate filter regeneration while performing scavenging with respect to the drive system, via instructions provided by the processor, when it is determined that particulate filter regeneration is warranted.