Stationary SCR Catalytic Converter Heating for Emission Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing and validating the repair of exhaust emission systems with SCR catalytic converters in vehicles are inefficient, often requiring extensive test drives or use of stationary dynamometers, which are time-consuming and costly, especially for heavy vehicles that need to perform self-tests under various engine loads while heating the catalytic converter to operational temperature.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves controlling the throttling device and fuel supply to apply engine load above idling levels when the vehicle is stationary, heating the SCR catalytic converter to a predetermined temperature, and then measuring emissions to validate the exhaust emission control system's proper function without the need for a test drive or dynamometer, allowing for diagnostics and self-tests to be performed while the vehicle is standing still.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle performs self-tests under various engine loads with catalytic converter heating, then the exhaust emission control system can be properly validated, but the testing process becomes time-consuming and requires extensive test drives
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs catalytic converter heating and emission measurements as preliminary actions during the vehicle service process, before the vehicle would normally be returned to the driver. By conducting these tests while the vehicle is stationary at the service station, the invention eliminates the need for extended test drives after service completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The service station's existing heating infrastructure is utilized for multiple purposes: both for general vehicle service operations and specifically for heating the catalytic converter during emission testing. This multi-functional use of existing equipment eliminates the need for dedicated test drive procedures.
2Reliability
If the vehicle is taken to a central testing facility on a stationary dynamometer, then comprehensive tests can be performed, but the distance between garage and testing facility exceeds the distance necessary for a successful test drive
Solution Approach 1:
The service station acts as an intermediary location between the garage and the central testing facility. By equipping the service station with catalytic converter heating capability and emission measurement equipment, the invention creates a middle ground where comprehensive tests can be performed without requiring the vehicle to travel long distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-dimension solution (either garage-based simple testing or facility-based comprehensive testing) to a multi-dimensional approach by enabling comprehensive testing at the intermediate service station location, thus optimizing both testing completeness and vehicle mobility.
3Productivity
If the vehicle returns to driver without completing self-tests, then the vehicle can be returned immediately, but it may take days or weeks for urban delivery vehicles to complete all required tests
Solution Approach 1:
The method performs catalytic converter heating and emission measurements as preliminary actions during the vehicle service process, before the vehicle would normally be returned to the driver. By conducting these tests while the vehicle is stationary at the service station, the invention eliminates the need for extended test drives after service completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides immediate feedback on emission test results at the service station, allowing mechanics to determine whether the exhaust system repair was successful before the vehicle leaves the premises. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures both quick vehicle return and reliable test completion.
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 method enables efficient heating of the catalytic converter to normal working temperature without a test drive or dynamometer, allowing for comprehensive diagnostics and validation of the exhaust emission control system, reducing time and costs by enabling tests to be performed while the vehicle is stationary, thus ensuring quicker return to full operational status.
Implementation Method 1
the exhaust gas generated in a combustion process of said engine is heated to such temperature that said catalytic converter can be heated to a temperature exceeding an oxidation catalyst activation temperature
Implementation Method 2
controlling said throttling device and a fuel amount to be supplied to said engine such that at least a load is applied to said engine... such that the exhaust gas generated in a combustion process of said engine is heated
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method for heating a catalytic converter of a vehicle, said vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine and a throttling device for throttling a combustion exhaust stream from said engine. The method comprises the step of, when said vehicle is in a stationary state wherein said the vehicle drive wheels supply substantially no load to said engine, controlling said throttling device and a fuel amount to be supplied to said engine such that at least a load is applied to said engine, wherein said load is above engine idling load, such that the exhaust gas generated in a combustion process of said engine is heated to such temperature that said catalytic converter can be heated to a temperature exceeding a predetermined temperature level.