Particulate Filter Regeneration Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for regulating the regeneration temperature of particulate filters in vehicle engines are inefficient as they require multiple temperature sensors, leading to increased costs and potential filter deterioration, which can result in non-compliance with pollution control regulations.
Innovation Solution
A method that uses a single temperature sensor located downstream of the oxidation catalyst to estimate the temperature upstream of the particulate filter, adapting the target temperature based on vehicle driving profiles and conditions to control the regeneration process without the need for an additional upstream sensor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a temperature sensor is installed upstream of the particulate filter to achieve precise temperature regulation, then temperature control precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring two temperature sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the upstream temperature sensor by using a thermal model that estimates the temperature upstream of the particulate filter based on the downstream sensor reading. This model copy allows the control system to regulate temperature as if it had direct measurement, achieving precise control without the physical sensor and its associated complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a thermal model as an intermediary between the downstream temperature sensor and the regeneration control system. This mediator processes the downstream temperature data and provides estimated upstream temperature information, enabling precise regulation without directly measuring upstream temperature
2Productivity
If regeneration is performed by subjecting the filter to very high temperatures to burn accumulated particles, then particulate removal effectiveness is improved, but the filter may deteriorate due to thermal stress
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system that continuously monitors the downstream temperature and adjusts the regeneration process accordingly. By using the thermal model to estimate upstream temperature and comparing it with target values, the system provides feedback that prevents excessive temperature exposure, protecting the filter from thermal deterioration while maintaining effective regeneration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamic temperature regulation during regeneration, adjusting the target temperature based on real-time conditions and the thermal model estimates. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize regeneration effectiveness while adapting to prevent filter deterioration, rather than using fixed high temperatures throughout the process
3Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors are installed to achieve precise temperature monitoring, then temperature measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual temperature measurement copy through thermal modeling, eliminating the need for a physical upstream temperature sensor. This model-based copy provides the necessary temperature information for control decisions, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing downstream temperature sensor and thermal models to self-generate the upstream temperature information that would otherwise require a separate sensor. The control system serves its own measurement needs by processing available data through the thermal model, eliminating the need for additional sensor hardware
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 temperature regulation of the particulate filter, reducing the risk of filter deterioration and ensuring compliance with emission regulations while eliminating the need for an additional temperature sensor, thereby lowering costs and improving energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an oxidation catalyst provided with a sensor measuring the temperature downstream of the catalyst in the direction of gas flow
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for regulating the regeneration temperature of a particulate filter (14) for a vehicle engine, said engine including an exhaust line (10) comprising the following components disposed successively in the gas flow direction, namely: an oxidation catalyst (12) provided with a sensor that measures the temperature downstream of the catalyst (12) in the gas flow direction, and a particulate filter (14). The method comprises the following steps: acquiring information relating to the running profile of the vehicle; determining a target temperature (Ttarget) for the temperature downstream of the catalyst (12) as a function of the information acquired; regenerating the particulate filter (14); and, during the regeneration, adapting the target temperature (Ttarget) as a function of the changes in the temperature upstream of the particulate filter (14), which is estimated from the temperature measured by the sensor. Consequently, no temperature sensor is required upstream of the particulate filter.