Virtual Torque Sensor for Waste Heat Recovery Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the net output torque from a waste heat recovery system in internal combustion engines are inefficient and costly, as they often require additional sensors, increasing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize existing sensors to calculate the net output torque by measuring high and low pressure values and engine speed, using a combination of static and dynamic torque models to determine the energy conversion device output torque and pump output torque, thereby eliminating the need for additional sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional sensors are used to determine net output torque, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the torque measurement function by calculating net output torque from pressure and speed data instead of using a physical torque sensor. The energy conversion device output torque is calculated based on high pressure, low pressure, and engine speed values, creating a computational model that replicates torque measurement without physical contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical torque sensor with a computational system that uses fluid pressure measurements and engine speed data to determine torque. The net torque calculator module substitutes the mechanical measurement device with an algorithmic approach that processes pressure differential and speed information to derive torque values
2Measurement precision
If additional sensors are installed, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the torque measurement function by calculating net output torque from pressure and speed data instead of using a physical torque sensor. The energy conversion device output torque is calculated based on high pressure, low pressure, and engine speed values, creating a computational model that replicates torque measurement without physical contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing sensors serve multiple functions: pressure sensors not only monitor system pressure but also provide data for torque calculation; engine speed sensors not only indicate RPM but also contribute to energy conversion device output torque determination. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated torque sensors
3Device complexity
If existing torque determination methods are used, then simplicity is maintained, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the torque measurement function by calculating net output torque from pressure and speed data instead of using a physical torque sensor. The energy conversion device output torque is calculated based on high pressure, low pressure, and engine speed values, creating a computational model that replicates torque measurement without physical contact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the net torque calculator continuously processes real-time pressure and speed data to determine energy conversion device output torque and pump output torque. The system uses the difference between these torques to provide accurate net output torque measurements that reflect actual system conditions
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 approach allows for accurate determination of net output torque without adding sensors, reducing complexity and cost while improving the calculation's accuracy, enabling better fuel efficiency and transmission shift point determination.
Implementation Method 1
By converting a portion of waste heat to useful energy, the efficiency of an engine is improved
Implementation Method 2
internal combustion engines generate significant amounts of heat that heat exchangers eventually transfer to the air surrounding the internal combustion engine
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides a waste heat recovery system with a system and method for calculation of the net output torque from the waste heat recovery system. The calculation uses inputs from existing pressure and speed sensors to create a virtual pump torque sensor and a virtual expander torque sensor, and uses these sensors to provide an accurate net torque output from the WHR system.