Variable Port Flap Control Module Voltage Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable port flap control modules (VCM) face issues with maintaining optimal flap position due to heat damage or assembly deviations, leading to power loss and decreased fuel efficiency, as excessive offset voltage can damage the link or gear connecting the motor and flap.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for controlling the VCM flap position by determining and applying specific opening and closing voltages to the motor, considering flap tolerance, to maintain optimal opening and closing states, thereby preventing excessive voltage application and potential damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If offset voltage is applied to the motor to maintain flap position accuracy, then flap position precision is improved, but the link or gear connecting the motor and flap is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The control module continuously monitors the actual flap position and compares it with the target position, then adjusts the motor voltage dynamically. This feedback mechanism eliminates the need for continuous offset voltage by making real-time corrections only when position deviation occurs, preventing excessive voltage application to the link or gear.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static offset voltage approach to a dynamic voltage control strategy. The motor voltage is adjusted in real-time based on actual flap position feedback, allowing the system to maintain precision without applying unnecessary continuous stress to mechanical components.
2Productivity
If the flap is installed as near as possible to the combustion engine to control tumble, then tumble control effectiveness is improved, but the actuator must be mounted at a spaced position requiring additional links or gears
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical linkage system (links or gears) with an electrical control system. The motor directly drives the flap through electrical actuation, eliminating the need for mechanical transmission components while maintaining the flap's proximity to the combustion engine for effective tumble control.
3Productivity
If the flap position is controlled to maintain complete opening or closing state, then combustion efficiency is improved, but power loss and fuel efficiency decrease due to knocking or misfire
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the flap position parameter based on actual operating conditions rather than maintaining fixed extreme positions. By optimizing the flap angle in real-time, the system achieves the desired combustion efficiency while preventing knocking or misfire conditions that lead to energy loss.
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
The solution effectively controls the VCM flap to maintain optimal positions, preventing damage to the gear and improving fuel efficiency by adjusting voltages based on flap position variations, even with durability deterioration.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator such as a motor is connected via a link or a gear to rotate the flap
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a position of a flap of a variable port flap control module (VCM) may include determining whether a vehicle state satisfies a predetermined opening condition of the VCM, determining a VCM opening voltage in consideration of tolerance of the flap of the VCM when the vehicle state satisfies the opening condition of the VCM, and controlling the flap of the VCM to be in an opened state by applying the VCM opening voltage to a motor of the VCM when the opening condition of the VCM is satisfied, during an engine starts.