Modular Leak Detection Module for CN IV V Emissions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection modules for CN IV and CN V fuel vehicles are unable to inspect the leakage of fuel evaporation control systems and excessive emissions of hydrocarbon compounds from carbon canisters, necessitating separate preliminary parts development and calibration for each vehicle type.
Innovation Solution
A modular leak detection module (LDM) equipped with a pump, solenoid valves, pressure and VOC sensors, and a controller, capable of independently diagnosing leaks and emissions, and transmitting results to a remote data center, adaptable to both CN IV and CN V vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a leak detection module is designed for CN IV and CN V vehicles with separate preliminary parts development and calibration, then the measurement precision for leak detection is improved, but the device complexity and development time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single leak detection module that can be used across multiple vehicle emission standards (CN IV and CN V). The module incorporates adjustable parameters and configurable detection algorithms that allow it to adapt to different regulatory requirements without requiring separate hardware developments for each standard, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by implementing configurable detection thresholds, pressure parameters, and flow rate parameters that can be adjusted based on the specific emission standard being tested. This allows the same physical device to achieve precise measurements for different CN standards by simply modifying operational parameters rather than redesigning the entire system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing leak detection methods are used without VOC measurement capability, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to diagnose excessive HC compound emissions is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating VOC measurement functionality directly into the existing leak detection module. The mass flow sensor and detection algorithms are combined with the pressure-based leak detection system, creating a unified device that can simultaneously perform both leak detection and VOC emissions diagnosis without requiring entirely separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The enhanced module achieves multi-functionality by capable of both leak detection and VOC emissions monitoring. This universal design allows a single device to address multiple diagnostic needs (leak detection, HC compound emission analysis) that previously required separate specialized equipment, thereby increasing adaptability while managing device complexity through integrated architecture.
3Productivity
If manual inspection procedures are used for evaporative emissions systems, then the device complexity is minimized, but the productivity and data management efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automated data collection, processing, and reporting functions within the leak detection module. The system automatically performs measurements, compares results against regulatory thresholds, generates diagnostic reports, and transmits data to remote servers without requiring manual intervention for each step, thereby significantly improving inspection efficiency while the automation is managed through integrated software control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes feedback by implementing real-time data transmission from the detection module to remote servers, where results are processed and fed back into the system for continuous improvement. The automated feedback loop enables rapid data analysis, trend identification, and system optimization, enhancing productivity through efficient data management while the feedback infrastructure is built into the system architecture.
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 independent leak and emissions diagnosis on CN IV and CN V vehicles, ensuring compliance with emission standards and facilitating centralized data management.
Implementation Method 1
The gasoline engine, a pump, or fuel tank temperature change is used either to create a vacuum or pressurize the system
Implementation Method 2
the pressure is monitored to determine if there are any leaks
Implementation Method 3
an LDM that is able to measure volatile organic compounds (VOC)
Data Source
AI summary
A leak detection module may include a housing and a canister valve solenoid (CVS) arranged within the housing and in fluid communication along a first fluid passageway between canister and atmospheric ports. The leak detection module may include a second fluid passageway in parallel with the first fluid passageway and fluidly connected to the canister and atmospheric ports. A CVS check valve is arranged in the second fluid passageway and a volatile organic compound (VOC) gas sensor is arranged in one of the first and second passageways, configured to measure the concentration of hydrocarbons (HC) therethrough. A mass flow meter is arranged in one of the first and second passageways to determine a mass flow rate from the canister port to the atmospheric port. A controller measures the quality of the emissions by monitoring the HC and communicates the result to a base station.