Throttle Intake Bypass Control for Faster Pedal Response
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic throttle control (ETC) systems often override driver decisions, resulting in delayed acceleration and perceived power lag or 'flat spots' in the acceleration curve.
Innovation Solution
A throttle-controlled intake system that includes a control module coupled with an aircharger air intake, processing input signals from the throttle pedal and sending modified throttle position signals to the throttle body, thereby increasing throttle responsiveness and allowing direct signal communication to the throttle body, bypassing the electronic control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the electronic control unit processes throttle pedal signals through calculations before sending to the throttle body, then the system provides automated control and safety features, but the throttle responsiveness is reduced and power lag occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the throttle control signal path into two independent channels: a primary automated channel through the ECM for normal operation, and a direct bypass channel that circumvents the ECM for rapid response. This segmentation allows the system to maintain automated control features while providing a fast-response path when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a bypass mechanism as an intermediary element that mediates between the throttle pedal and throttle body. This bypass channel acts as a direct communication path that overrides the automated ECM processing, enabling immediate throttle response without waiting for ECM calculations.
2Reliability
If the electronic control unit overrides driver decisions through calculated throttle positions, then the system provides safety and optimization, but the driver loses control over vehicle acceleration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control architecture where the driver can switch between automated ECM control and direct throttle control. The system transitions from a static automated-only approach to a dynamic system that adapts to driver needs, allowing full driver control when desired while maintaining automated safety features when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of the ECM always controlling the throttle body, the patent inverts the control hierarchy by allowing the driver's direct signal to bypass and override the ECM. This inversion empowers the driver to take control when needed, reversing the traditional automated-dominant approach.
3Device complexity
If the throttle body receives signals only through the electronic control unit, then the system maintains centralized control, but the acceleration curve exhibits flat spots and power lag
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control signal path into two parallel channels: the existing centralized ECM route and a new direct bypass route. This segmentation preserves the centralized control structure for normal operation while adding a direct path that eliminates processing delays and improves acceleration performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the throttle control system multi-functional by enabling it to operate in two modes: automated ECM-controlled mode for safety and optimization, and direct driver-controlled mode for rapid response. This universality allows the same hardware to serve both centralized control and direct response functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A throttle-controlled intake system is disclosed that provides a driver of a vehicle with greater control over engine functions and vehicle performance. The throttle-controlled intake system includes a control module that is coupled with an aircharger air intake. The control module processes input signals from a throttle pedal of the vehicle and sends modified throttle position signals to a throttle body of the vehicle so as to increase throttle responsiveness of the vehicle. The throttle-controlled intake system further includes a wiring harness and a signal adjuster. The wiring harness electrically couples the control module with the throttle pedal and the throttle body. The control module sends signals directly to the throttle body of the engine, bypassing an electronic control unit of the vehicle. The signal adjuster includes a rheostat that enables manual adjustment of the throttle responsiveness of the vehicle.