High Pressure Fuel Leakage Source Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high pressure fuel system faces challenges in detecting and identifying the source of leakage due to occasional defects and cavitation-induced failures, which can lead to damage if not addressed promptly.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using a control computer and sensors to determine pressure decay values over specific periods after engine shutdown, distinguishing between outlet check valves and sub-components as sources of high pressure leakage by comparing decay values against predetermined thresholds, and isolating sub-components to pinpoint the exact source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the high pressure fuel system operates without continuous monitoring, then the system complexity is reduced, but leakage detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by shutting down the engine and measuring pressure decay at two different initial pressures before normal operation resumes. This preliminary measurement phase enables leakage detection without requiring continuous monitoring during engine operation, thus resolving the contradiction between system complexity and leakage detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel system uses its own high pressure to perform the leakage detection function. By utilizing the existing pressure in the system and measuring its decay rate, the system self-diagnoses leakage conditions without requiring external test equipment or continuous external power, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining detection capability.
2Device complexity
If pressure decay is measured at only one initial pressure, then the measurement process is simplified, but the ability to distinguish leakage sources deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement process is segmented into two distinct pressure measurement phases: first measurement at a higher initial pressure and second measurement at a lower initial pressure. This segmentation allows the system to compare pressure decay rates at different pressure levels, enabling accurate distinction between leakage sources (inlet check valve vs. outlet check valve) while keeping each individual measurement relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure parameter by conducting measurements at two different initial pressures rather than one fixed pressure. This parameter variation enables the system to identify leakage sources based on how decay rates differ across pressure levels, improving measurement precision without excessive complexity.
3Productivity
If the engine remains running continuously, then fuel delivery is maintained, but leakage detection is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic leakage detection by temporarily shutting down the engine at scheduled intervals to perform pressure decay measurements. This periodic action allows leakage detection to occur without preventing fuel delivery during normal operation, resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability by finding a balance between operation and inspection.
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
Enables quick and reliable detection and identification of high pressure leakage sources, allowing for timely repair or replacement to prevent further damage to the fuel system.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sensor for determining pressure within a fuel system of an engine
Data Source
AI summary
A method for identifying a source of high pressure leakage of a fuel system of an engine comprising determining pressure decay values at a first pressure and at a second pressure and identifying the source of high pressure leakage based on the pressure decay values at each pressure.