Vehicle Torque Curve Analysis for Performance Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating vehicular performance are costly, difficult to perform, and require specialized equipment like roller test benches, which are not easily accessible, and are often subjective and time-consuming, failing to provide objective assessments in real driving conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that simulate a roller test bench by analyzing torque curves during acceleration and deceleration periods using an engine control unit, calculating resistance contributions, and comparing them to actual torque values to diagnose potential engine or other vehicular issues, allowing for objective performance evaluation in real driving conditions without the need for specialized equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a roller test bench is used for exhaustive vehicle performance tests, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and accessibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the roller test bench functionality through software simulation. The system replicates the measurement and evaluation capabilities of physical roller test benches by processing vehicle sensor data through algorithms that simulate load test conditions, eliminating the need for actual roller test bench hardware while maintaining diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical roller test bench system with an electronic/software-based diagnostic system. Instead of using physical rollers to apply and measure mechanical loads, the system uses electronic sensors, processors, and algorithms to detect, calculate, and evaluate vehicle performance parameters during normal operation
2Reliability
If a roller test bench is used for vehicle performance tests, then reliability of diagnosis is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's own electronic control units and sensors serve the diagnostic function. The system uses data already being collected by the vehicle's onboard electronics (engine control unit, transmission control unit, sensor networks) to perform performance evaluation, eliminating the need for external specialized equipment and making the system self-diagnostic
3Ease of operation
If routine tests are performed in garages, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the vehicle's control systems into functional segments (engine control unit, transmission control unit, sensor systems) and utilizes each segment's data capabilities for diagnostic purposes. By segmenting the analysis into specific performance parameters (torque, power, efficiency metrics), the system achieves comprehensive evaluation using distributed onboard electronics rather than centralized specialized equipment
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for the diagnosis and the evaluation of the performance of a vehicle equipped with at least an engine control unit, comprising the steps of: determining, in at least a period of acceleration followed by a period of deceleration of the vehicle, of: a curve (A) of the maximum torque deliverable by the engine control unit; a curve (B) of the actual torque being delivered by the engine control unit; a first torque curve (D) calculated by considering the resistance contribution deriving from the engine and from other vehicular and/or external elements; a second torque curve (E), deriving from said first calculated torque curve (D), calculated by subtracting an evaluation of said resistance contribution deriving from the engine and from other vehicular and/or external elements; comparison of said second torque curve calculated in the acceleration time period with said actual torque curve (B), in order to obtain said diagnosis and evaluation of vehicle's performance.