Heating Component Performance Evaluation via Starter Motor Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the performance of internal combustion engine components, such as heating components, are inadequate due to variations in battery system life and configuration, which can impact the accuracy of performance assessment.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the operation of a heating component and an engine accessory, where characteristics like voltage reductions during operation are measured and compared to determine performance, with a malfunction indicator lamp illuminated for decreased performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current techniques are used to evaluate heating component performance, then evaluation can be performed, but accuracy is compromised due to battery system variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a starter motor as an intermediary reference component to evaluate heating component performance. Instead of directly measuring heating component characteristics alone, the system measures voltage reductions during starter motor operation as a reference, then compares heating component voltage reductions against this reference. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for direct contact with the heating component and provides a consistent baseline for evaluation across different battery configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation system uses the battery system's own voltage characteristics during normal operation to assess component performance. By measuring voltage reductions during starter motor operation and comparing them to voltage reductions during heating component operation, the system performs self-evaluation without requiring external reference equipment or additional sensors, making the evaluation process independent of battery configuration variations.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If heating components are used to improve combustion quality, then emissions are reduced, but component performance monitoring becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The evaluation system integrates multiple functions into a single monitoring approach. The same voltage measurement system used for battery state monitoring is also used to evaluate heating component performance. The starter motor serves dual purposes: engine starting and as a reference component for performance evaluation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate monitoring systems while maintaining comprehensive oversight of emissions-related components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback monitoring by comparing voltage reduction characteristics during heating component operation against reference measurements from starter motor operation. The control module analyzes these comparisons and can trigger diagnostic indications when performance degradation is detected, providing ongoing feedback about component health without requiring complex monitoring infrastructure.
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 provides a reliable method to evaluate component performance across various configurations, ensuring accurate assessment and timely notification of malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
ambient air may be heated by a heating component before it enters into the cylinders of the engine. Additionally or alternatively, heating components can be positioned in or around the cylinders in order to heat air in the cylinder
Implementation Method 2
variations in battery system life and configuration can impact the ability of current techniques to accurately evaluate the performance of heating or other components
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment is a unique strategy for evaluating performance of a component of an internal combustion engine. More particularly, in one non-limiting form a method includes operating a component, such as a heating component, and measuring a first characteristic related to its operation. The method also includes operating an engine accessory and measuring a second characteristic related to its operation, and determining performance of the component by relating the first and second characteristics to one another. In one aspect, relating the first and second characteristics to one another provides a first value which is compared to a predetermined value, and performance of the component is determined from this comparison. Other embodiments include unique methods, systems, and apparatus for evaluating or monitoring the performance of a component of an internal combustion engine, and/or for performing a procedure for starting the internal combustion engine.