Ignition Control Apparatus Abnormality Detection Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control apparatuses for internal combustion engines lack a simple and effective means to detect abnormalities in the ignition apparatus, particularly in the energy input unit, leading to potential fuel efficiency and emission deterioration, and inability to respond to malfunctions with limp-home mode.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus that includes a current detecting means and abnormality detecting means to differentiate between abnormalities in the igniter unit, ignition coil, and energy input unit by using thresholds and predetermined periods, allowing for precise detection and differentiation of issues within the ignition apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an energy input unit is added to continue spark discharge, then spark discharge stability is improved, but device complexity increases and abnormality detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ignition system into distinct functional modules: main ignition circuit, energy input circuit, and abnormality detection circuit. Each module has dedicated components (switching elements, coils, sensors) that can be independently analyzed and controlled. This segmentation allows the complex system to maintain reliability while enabling targeted abnormality detection in each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a current sensor as an intermediary element that monitors the secondary current without disrupting the spark discharge process. This intermediary provides detection capability by measuring electrical parameters while allowing the energy input unit to continue its function of maintaining spark discharge.
2Reliability
If abnormality detection means is added to detect ignition apparatus failures, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The abnormality detection system utilizes existing electrical parameters (secondary current) already present in the ignition system to detect failures. The current sensor and control unit analyze naturally occurring electrical signals without requiring separate test signals or additional active components during normal operation, allowing the system to self-diagnose using its own operational data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the current sensor continuously monitors secondary current and provides information to the control unit. The control unit compares detected values against expected ranges and triggers abnormality notifications when deviations occur, creating a closed-loop detection system that improves reliability through continuous monitoring.
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 the detection of abnormalities in the ignition apparatus with a simple configuration, allowing for continued engine operation while minimizing fuel efficiency and emission deterioration, and enabling limp-home mode by identifying and addressing specific component malfunctions.
Implementation Method 1
The ignition coil has a primary coil of which one end is connected to a power supply side and another end is connected to a ground side, and a secondary coil of which one end is connected to the spark plug
Implementation Method 2
The spark plug is provided in the combustion chamber and is capable of igniting the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber by generating electric discharge
Data Source
AI summary
In a control apparatus, a discharge control unit controls an igniter unit so that a flow of current from a primary coil towards a ground side is blocked, thereby generating a high voltage in a secondary coil, and controls a spark plug so that the spark plug generates electric discharge. An energy input control unit controls an energy input unit so as to input electrical energy to an ignition coil after the start of control of the spark plug by the discharge control unit. A control unit and an abnormality detecting unit detects an abnormality in the igniter unit or the ignition coil based on a first threshold and a first current value that is a value corresponding to a current detected by a current detection circuit at this time, when a first predetermined period elapses after the start of control of the spark plug by the discharge control unit.