Variable Compression Engine Sensor Signal Plausibility Check
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Solution Overview
Problem
In internal combustion engines with variable compression, existing technologies fail to accurately verify the plausibility of sensor signals indicative of compression, leading to potential engine damage and negative exhaust gas influences when actual compression does not match desired compression.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to check the plausibility of a sensor signal by ascertaining a series of corresponding values, determining the relationship between the sensor signal and actuating variable, and comparing it to a predetermined characteristic relationship, with deviations assessed against threshold values to determine signal plausibility and potentially correct or output fault messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor signal is used to control variable compression in internal combustion engines, then the compression can be adjusted according to operating conditions, but the plausibility of the sensor signal cannot be verified, leading to potential engine damage and negative exhaust gas influences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actuating variable (e.g., current for an electromechanical actuator) is fed back to the control circuit. The control circuit determines a relationship between the sensor signal and actuating variable, compares it to a predetermined characteristic relationship, and uses this comparison to verify signal plausibility and control compression adjustment, thereby ensuring reliable feedback control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification process involving the actuating variable as a mediator. By analyzing the relationship between the sensor signal and actuating variable through a characteristic relationship, the system indirectly verifies sensor signal plausibility without requiring direct compression measurement, thus resolving the reliability issue
2Device complexity
If the sensor signal plausibility is not verified, then the control system operates without additional checks, but engine damage and negative exhaust gas influences occur when actual compression does not match desired compression
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit performs self-verification by using the actuating variable (which it already controls) as a reference to check the sensor signal plausibility. This self-service approach allows the system to verify its own operation without external intervention or additional complex hardware, preventing harmful effects while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating variable serves multiple functions: it controls the compression adjustment and simultaneously acts as a reference signal for verifying sensor plausibility. This multi-functionality allows the same control element to perform both control and verification tasks, preventing engine damage without adding separate verification hardware
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a method for operating an internal combustion engine wherein the compression is variably adjusted comprising: checking a sensor signal indicative of a compression of the engine; checking the plausibility of the signal by: ascertaining a series of corresponding values of the signal and values of the actuating variable; determining a mathematical relationship between the signal and the variable based on the series; determining a deviation between the relationship and a predetermined characteristic relationship; and determining the signal is plausible when the determined deviation is lower than a predetermined threshold value; and if the determined deviation is higher than the predetermined threshold value, adjusting operation of the internal combustion engine.