Rotating Crankcase Ventilation With Local Sensor Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional crankcase ventilation systems are dependent on central controllers, requiring system-specific modifications, which increases manufacturing costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a controller and sensors within the crankcase ventilation system to independently control operations based on operating parameters, allowing installation without modification for specific engines or central controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If crankcase ventilation systems are coupled to and controlled by a central controller, then the system can be controlled based on engine operating conditions, but the system requires system-specific modifications which increases manufacturing cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into a centralized controller and distributed control modules. Each crankcase ventilation system has its own independent control module with integrated sensors that can autonomously monitor and adjust local operations, eliminating the need for system-specific modifications while maintaining centralized coordination for overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can be installed in different engine configurations without modification. It integrates multiple functions including sensor integration, parameter monitoring, and actuator control within a single standardized module that adapts to various engine types through software configuration rather than hardware modification.
2Ease of operation
If crankcase ventilation systems are coupled to and controlled by a central controller, then the system can be controlled based on engine operating conditions, but system-specific modifications are required which increases manufacturing cost
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the control architecture into independent, standardized control modules, the system eliminates custom integration work for each installation. The modular design allows mass production of identical control units, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining full control capability through the module's ability to communicate with the central controller and autonomously manage local ventilation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module uses configurable parameters and software settings to adapt to different engine types and operating conditions without requiring hardware modifications. This parameter-based customization allows the same physical module to be used across multiple applications, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while preserving ease of operation through tailored control strategies.
3Device complexity
If conventional crankcase ventilation systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the system requires modification for specific installations which reduces adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The control module is designed as a universal platform that maintains simple internal structure while achieving high adaptability through standardized interfaces and configurable parameters. The module can be installed in various engine configurations without modification, as it automatically adapts to different operating conditions through software configuration rather than structural changes, thus combining simplicity with versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module incorporates dynamic adaptability through programmable logic and sensor feedback that allows it to adjust its operation based on specific installation requirements. The simple physical structure is complemented by dynamic software control that can be configured for different engine types, maintaining structural simplicity while achieving installation versatility through flexible control strategies.
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
Reduces manufacturing costs and complexity by enabling flexible installation across different engines, while maintaining high filtering efficiency and performance.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor is configured to measure at least one operating parameter of the rotating crankcase ventilation system
Implementation Method 2
a motor comprising a stator and a rotor... configured to receive the at least one operating parameter and selectively adjust operation of the motor to adjust rotation of the rotor
Implementation Method 3
In rotating coalescer elements, the contaminants (e.g., oil droplets suspended and transported by blowby gases) are separated at least in part by centrifugal separation techniques
Implementation Method 4
Additionally, the rotation of the coalescer element can create a pumping effect, which reduces the pressure drop through the crankcase ventilation system
Data Source
AI summary
A rotating crankcase ventilation system comprises a housing comprising an inlet and an outlet, a motor comprising a stator and a rotor, and a shaft. A first end of the shaft is coupled to the rotor and configured to rotate in response to rotation of the rotor. A filter element is coupled to the shaft. A sensor is configured to measure at least one operating parameter of the rotating crankcase ventilation system. A controller is operatively coupled to the sensor and the motor, the controller configured to receive the at least one operating parameter and selectively adjust operation of the motor to adjust rotation of the rotor, and thereby, the filter element based on the at least one operating parameter.