DE102017006303A1 - System and method for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine (230) of a vehicle (100) comprising a clutch arrangement (240) of a transmission of the vehicle (100), wherein the fuel injection by a number of fuel injection units (310) of a number engine cylinder (11, 12, 13, 14), comprising the steps of: - determining (s410) a development of the engine speed (N) during engine operation; Determining (s420) whether a predetermined vehicle operating condition exists; - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling (s430) the clutch assembly (240) to a stable slip condition to achieve torque transfer and reduce the transmission of vibrations; and determining a development of engine speed during engine operation during steady state slip to diagnose (s440) the fuel injection units (310) and, if necessary, adjust (s450) the operation of certain fuel injection units (310). The invention also relates to a computer program product comprising program code (P) for a computer (200, 210) for carrying out a method according to the invention. The invention also relates to a system for achieving the correct fuel injection into an internal combustion engine and to a motor vehicle (100) equipped with the system.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a method for achieving the proper fuel injection in an internal combustion engine. The invention also relates to a computer program product comprising program code for a computer for carrying out a method according to the invention. It also relates to a system for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine and a motor vehicle equipped with the system. The present invention relates to a method, system and computer program for achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine by diagnosing and adjusting the fuel injection units of an engine.

STATE OF THE ART

Internal combustion engines such as explosion engines of vehicles are designed to be supplied with a fuel such as diesel, gasoline or ethanol. For this purpose, injection valve means are provided to supply one after the other substantially the same amount of fuel to a corresponding engine cylinder. Thus, in an eight-cylinder engine, one injector is disposed on each of the eight cylinders. In some embodiments, a so-called common rail system is provided in which the fuel is pressurized and supplied to each of the injectors for fueling a corresponding cylinder.

The injection valves may irregularly supply the fuel for various reasons, for example due to deterioration due to mechanical wear or production fluctuations. Therefore, at least periodically, a diagnosis of the injectors and, if necessary, an adjustment process must be performed in order to improve the accuracy of the fuel supply to each of the cylinders. If the injectors are not adjusted to a result of the diagnosis, a torque supplied by the engine during operation is not uniform and varies to an undesirable extent.

Such a diagnosis and adaptation are performed today by an engine speed analysis. In this case, an engine speed sensor is arranged on a flywheel of a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine. By analyzing an engine speed pattern, uneven fueling can be detected. Such an engine speed analysis, however, has a number of disadvantages. Due to vibrations caused by, for example, an irregular surface on which the vehicle is traveling or by non-round tires of the vehicle, it may be difficult to obtain accurate results of the engine speed analysis. The adjustment of the injectors may thereby be erroneous if the engine speed analysis is performed near an operating point at which a drivetrain of the vehicle has resonances. In these cases, the adjustment made may even affect fuel delivery, as injector imbalance can not be distinguished from powertrain resonances.

According to some diagnostic methods, the engine speed analysis is performed in an idling state of the internal combustion engine. As a result, the diagnosis performed is really only valid for this one state and thus limited.

US 2006/0047405 relates to a method for adjusting injectors. In this case, a drive train can be separated before the analysis of the injection valves.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel and advantageous method of achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine.

An object of the present invention is to provide a novel and advantageous method for diagnosing a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders. An object of the present invention is to provide a novel and advantageous method for diagnosing and adjusting a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Another object of the invention is to provide a novel and advantageous system and a novel and advantageous computer program for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine.

Another object of the invention is to provide a novel and advantageous system and a novel and advantageous computer program for diagnosing a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders. It is an object of the invention to provide a novel and advantageous system and a novel and advantageous computer program for diagnosing and adjusting a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a novel and advantageous method of enabling cost-effective and reliable diagnosis and adaptation of a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Another object of the invention is to provide a novel and advantageous system and a novel and advantageous computer program for enabling cost-effective and reliable diagnosis and adaptation of a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Another object of the invention is to provide a method, system and computer program for achieving robust, accurate and automated diagnosis and adjustment of a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alternative method, system, and program for obtaining the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alternative method, system, and program for obtaining the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine.

Another object of the invention is to provide an alternative method, system, and program for diagnosing a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders. Another object of the invention is to provide an alternative method, system, and program for diagnosing and adjusting a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders.

Some of these objects are achieved by a method according to claim 1. Other tasks are accomplished with a system according to the representation contained therein. Advantageous embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims. In essence, the same advantages of method steps of the method according to the invention also apply to corresponding means of the system according to the invention.

• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs;
• – Ermitteln, ob ein vorgegebener Fahrzeug-Betriebszustand vorliegt;
• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands Steuern der Kupplungsanordnung in einen stabilen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen; und
• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs während des stabilen Schlupfzustands zur Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten und gegebenenfalls Anpassen der Betätigung von bestimmten Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a clutch assembly of a transmission of the vehicle, wherein the fuel injection is by a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders, comprising the steps of:

• - determining a development of the engine speed during engine operation;
• - Determine whether a given vehicle operating condition exists;
• - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition controlling the clutch assembly in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations; and
• Determining a development of engine speed during engine operation during steady state slip to diagnose fuel injection units and, if necessary, adjust actuation of particular fuel injection units.

By controlling the clutch assembly to the stable slip condition to achieve torque transfer and reduce the transmission of vibration, a more reliable and accurate diagnosis and, optionally, adjustment of the fuel injection units may be made. The stable slip state may be a so-called micro-slip state. As a result, the injection valve diagnosis and adaptation can take place in different operating states of the internal combustion engine, which advantageously allows a more versatile application. As this significantly reduces powertrain vibration while maintaining substantially complete torque transmission in the drivetrain, a more accurate analysis of the engine speed pattern can be made. The stable slip condition is a slip condition of the clutch assembly.

The default vehicle operating condition may include a prevailing engine speed within a particular engine speed interval. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that a prevailing temperature of the clutch assembly is below a predetermined temperature value. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that a torque supplied by the engine is relatively constant. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that the engine speed is relatively constant. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include determining a prevailing operating condition of the engine in any respect as relevant to the diagnosis / adjustment of the fuel injection units.

The method advantageously provides an accurate, robust and cost effective solution for diagnosing and optionally adjusting one or more fuel injection units to achieve proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine of a vehicle.

By controlling the clutch assembly to a micro-slip condition, consideration of resonant frequencies in a driveline of the vehicle during diagnostics / adjustment is also reduced or eliminated at various engine loads / operating conditions involving relatively high engine loads. Thereby, an operating range in which the diagnosis / adaptation can take place is advantageously increased, both with respect to the engaged gears of a transmission of the drive train and the prevailing engine load.

• – Ermitteln des Vorliegens von Abweichungen in einem Motordrehzahlmuster im Vergleich zu einem erwarteten Motordrehzahlmuster aufgrund von Abweichungen in der Einspritzung der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten; und
• – beim Ermitteln des Vorliegens von Abweichungen Anstoßen des Steuerns der Kupplungsanordnung in den stabilen Schlupfzustand.

The method may include the steps of:

• - determining the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern compared to an expected engine speed pattern due to variations in the injection of the fuel injection units; and
• In determining the presence of deviations, triggering the control of the clutch assembly in the stable slip condition.

As a result, the method according to the invention can be activated automatically. Thus, if appropriate, the method according to the invention is activated only if deviations in the engine speed pattern are determined by comparison with a predetermined or expected engine speed pattern.

• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands Steuern weiterer Kupplungsanordnungen von Antriebsaggregaten des Fahrzeugs in einen stabilen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen. Dieser stabile Schlupfzustand kann ebenfalls ein sogenannter Mikroschlupfzustand sein. Dadurch kann eine Zahl von schwingungserzeugenden Quellen vorteilhafterweise in einen Schlupfzustand zur verbesserten Diagnose und Anpassung der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten gemäß dem erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren versetzt werden.

The method may include the step of:

• - In the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition controlling further clutch assemblies of drive units of the vehicle in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations. This stable slip state may also be a so-called micro-slip state. Thereby, a number of vibration generating sources can advantageously be placed in a slip state for improved diagnosis and adaptation of the fuel injection units according to the method of the invention.

• – Ermitteln von Anpassungsergebnissen für eine Zahl von Kombinationen von Betriebsparametern umfassend die Motordrehzahl, die Menge des eingespritzten Kraftstoffs und den Common-Rail-Druck.

The method may include the step of:

• Determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters including engine speed, injected fuel amount, and common rail pressure.

Thereby, determined adaptation data relating to various operating conditions of the vehicle and the engine can be stored and used for improved diagnosis of the fuel injection units.

• – Ermitteln von Anpassungsergebnissen für eine Zahl von Kombinationen von Betriebsparametern umfassend die Motordrehzahl und/oder die Menge des eingespritzten Kraftstoffs und/oder den Common-Rail-Druck und/oder den Zündzeitpunkt/Einspritzzeitpunkt. Dadurch können ermittelte Anpassungsdaten in Bezug auf verschiedene Betriebszustände des Fahrzeugs und des Motors gespeichert und zur verbesserten Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten verwendet werden.

The method may include the step of:

• Determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed and / or the amount of injected fuel and / or the common rail pressure and / or the ignition timing / injection timing. Thereby, determined adaptation data relating to various operating conditions of the vehicle and the engine can be stored and used for improved diagnosis of the fuel injection units.

• – zum Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs ausgebildete Mittel;
• – zum Ermitteln, ob ein vorgegebener Fahrzeug-Betriebszustand vorliegt, ausgebildete Mittel;
• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands, zum Steuern der Kupplungsanordnung in einen stabilen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen ausgebildete Mittel; und
• – zum Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs während des stabilen Schlupfzustands zur Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten und gegebenenfalls Anpassen der Betätigung von bestimmten Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten ausgebildete Mittel. Der stabile Schlupfzustand ist ein Schlupfzustand der Kupplungsanordnung.

According to one embodiment, there is provided a system for achieving the proper fuel injection in an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a clutch assembly of a transmission of the vehicle, wherein a number of fuel injection units for performing fuel injection are included in a number of engine cylinders, comprising:

• Means adapted to determine a development of engine speed during engine operation;
• - means for determining whether a given vehicle operating condition exists;
• - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, for controlling the clutch assembly in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations formed means; and
• To detect a development of the engine speed during engine operation during the steady state of the slip to diagnose the fuel injection units and, if necessary, adjust the operation of certain fuel injection units. The stable slip condition is a slip condition of the clutch assembly.

• – zum Ermitteln des Vorliegens von Abweichungen in einem Motordrehzahlmuster im Vergleich zu einem erwarteten Motordrehzahlmuster aufgrund von Abweichungen in der Einspritzung der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten ausgebildete Mittel; und
• – beim Ermitteln des Vorliegens von Abweichungen, zum Anstoßen des Steuerns der Kupplungsanordnung in den stabilen Schlupfzustand ausgebildete Mittel.

According to one embodiment, the internal combustion engine is a diesel engine. The system may include:

• - means for determining the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern compared to an expected engine speed pattern due to variations in the injection of the fuel injection units; and
• In determining the presence of deviations, means arranged to initiate the control of the clutch assembly in the stable slip state.

• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands, zum Steuern weiterer Kupplungsanordnungen von Antriebsaggregaten des Fahrzeugs in einen stabilen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen ausgebildete Mittel.

The system may include:

• - In the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, for controlling further clutch arrangements of drive units of the vehicle in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations formed means.

• – zum Ermitteln von Anpassungsergebnissen für eine Zahl von Kombinationen von Betriebsparametern umfassend die Motordrehzahl, die Menge des eingespritzten Kraftstoffs und den Common-Rail-Druck ausgebildete Mittel.

The system may include:

• - for determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed, the amount of injected fuel and the common rail pressure formed means.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a system according to the present disclosure. The vehicle may be a truck, bus or passenger car. In one embodiment, the system is provided for a maritime or industrial application.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program for achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine, the computer program comprising program code for causing an electronic control unit or computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform any of the method steps illustrated herein when applied the electronic control unit or the computer is running.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program for achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine, the computer program comprising computer readable stored program code for causing an electronic control control unit to perform any of the method steps presented herein.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program for achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine, the computer program comprising program code stored on a computer readable medium to cause an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit to perform any of the method steps illustrated herein when executed on the electronic control unit or the computer.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program product comprising program code stored on a computer readable medium for performing any of the method steps presented herein when the computer program is executed on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer program product comprising program code non-volatile stored on a computer-readable medium for performing any of the method steps presented herein when the computer program is executed on an electronic control unit or a computer connected to the electronic control unit.

• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs;
• – Ermitteln, ob ein vorgegebener Fahrzeug-Betriebszustand vorliegt;
• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands Steuern der Kupplungsanordnung in einen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen; und
• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs während des Schlupfzustands zur Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten und gegebenenfalls Anpassen der Betätigung von bestimmten Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten. Der Schlupfzustand kann ein stabiler Schlupfzustand sein.

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a clutch assembly of a transmission of the vehicle, wherein the fuel injection is by a number of fuel injection units of a number of engine cylinders, comprising the steps of:

• - determining a development of the engine speed during engine operation;
• - Determine whether a given vehicle operating condition exists;
• - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition controlling the clutch assembly in a slip condition for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations; and
• Determining a development of the engine speed during engine operation during the slip condition for diagnosing the fuel injection units and, if necessary, adjusting the operation of certain fuel injection units. The slip condition may be a stable slip condition.

• – zum Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs ausgebildete Mittel;
• – zum Ermitteln, ob ein vorgegebener Fahrzeug-Betriebszustand vorliegt, ausgebildete Mittel;
• – zum, beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands, Steuern der Kupplungsanordnung in einen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen ausgebildete Mittel; und
• – zum Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl während des Motorbetriebs während des Schlupfzustands zur Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten und gegebenenfalls Anpassen der Betätigung von bestimmten Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten ausgebildete Mittel. Der Schlupfzustand kann ein stabiler Schlupfzustand sein.

According to one embodiment, there is provided a system for achieving the proper fuel injection in an internal combustion engine of a vehicle comprising a clutch assembly of a transmission of the vehicle, wherein a number of fuel injection units for performing fuel injection are included in a number of engine cylinders, comprising:

• Means adapted to determine a development of engine speed during engine operation;
• - means for determining whether a given vehicle operating condition exists;
• - to, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling the clutch assembly in a slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations formed means; and
• Means adapted to determine a development of engine speed during engine operation during the slip condition for diagnosis of the fuel injection units and, if necessary, adjustment of the operation of certain fuel injection units. The slip condition may be a stable slip condition.

Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following details and practice of the invention. The invention is not limited to the specific details described below. One skilled in the art will recognize other uses, modifications, and implementations in other fields that are within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a full understanding of the present invention and other objects, as well as advantages thereof, the following detailed description should be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the several diagrams.

1 schematically shows a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention.

2 schematically shows a system according to an embodiment of the invention.

3 schematically shows a system according to an embodiment of the invention.

4a shows a schematic flow diagram of a method according to an embodiment of the invention.

4b shows a more detailed schematic flow diagram of a method according to an embodiment of the invention. 5 schematically shows a computer according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

1 shows a side view of a vehicle 100 , The example shown 100 includes a tractor 110 and a trailer 112 , The vehicle 100 may be a heavy duty vehicle such as a truck or a bus. It can alternatively be a car.

The system of the invention is applicable to various vehicles, such as a mining machine, a tractor, a dump truck, a wheel loader, a platform comprising an industrial robot, a forest machine, an earthmoving machine, a road vehicle, a street leveler, an ambulance or a tracked vehicle.

The invention is suitable for use in various systems comprising a similar construction as shown here, in particular in an internal combustion engine equipped with a number of injection valves. The invention is suitable for use with an internal combustion engine with injection valves for supplying fuel to corresponding cylinders and is thus not limited to internal combustion engines of motor vehicles. The inventive method and system according to the invention in one aspect of the invention are well suited for other platforms comprising an internal combustion engine system than motor vehicles, such as watercraft. The watercraft may be of any type, such as motor boats, steamers, ferries or ships.

The inventive method and system according to one aspect of the invention are also well suited, for example, to systems comprising industrial combustion engines and / or engine driven industrial robots.

The inventive method and system according to one aspect of the invention are also well suited for different types of power plants, for example a power plant comprising an internal combustion engine driven generator.

The inventive method and the inventive system are also suitable for various engine systems.

As used herein, the term "connection" refers to a communication connection that may be a physical connection such as an optoelectronic communication line or a non-physical connection such as a wireless connection, such as a radio link or microwave connection.

The term "stable slip condition" here refers to a slip condition of the clutch assembly. The term "stable" may refer to a state of the clutch assembly in which very little or no fluctuation in a so-called slip position occurs.

The term "development" in the feature "determining a development of the engine speed during engine operation" is here synonymous with the term "course" and essentially designates as a determined engine speed progresses over time.

2 schematically shows a system 289 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

The system 289 includes an internal combustion engine 230 , one with a clutch assembly 240 connected output shaft 235 includes. The coupling arrangement 240 may be any suitable coupling. It may be a slip clutch with pressure plates and plates. It may be implemented in one version as a so-called lock-up function in a torque converter when the drive train of the vehicle has an automatic transmission. The coupling arrangement 240 is with a drive shaft 245 a gearbox 250 connected. The gear 250 has one with a torque distributor 260 connected output shaft 255 for transmitting the force to a number of driven wheels 270a . 270b via corresponding drive shafts 265a . 265b on.

According to this embodiment, a first auxiliary shaft 241 with an auxiliary clutch arrangement 242 connected. The coupling arrangement 240 may be any suitable coupling. A second auxiliary shaft 243 is between the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 and a drive unit 244 connected. This can be done by the engine 230 generated torque on the drive unit 244 via the auxiliary clutch arrangement 242 be transmitted. The first control unit 200 is for controlling the operation of the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 formed by any suitable means, for example a connection (not shown). The drive unit 244 may be any suitable drive unit such as a generator, an air conditioning compressor, a brake air compressor or other PTO units. A drive unit can also be referred to here as a drive unit. The two terms are thus used synonymously here.

A first control unit 200 is for communication with the engine 230 formed via a connection L230. The first control unit 200 is for controlling the operation of the engine 230 formed according to stored operating routines. For example, it may be configured to guide a prevailing rotational speed of an engine (or output shaft torque) to a target rotational speed (or output shaft target torque).

The first control unit 200 is for communication with the clutch assembly 240 formed via a connection L240. The first control unit 200 is to control the operation of the clutch assembly 240 formed according to stored operating routines. It is for example for opening the clutch assembly 240 , Pushing the clutch assembly together 240 and closing the clutch assembly 240 formed according to stored operating routines. The first control unit 200 is to control the operation of the clutch assembly 240 trained to the clutch assembly 240 to bring into a slip state, with torque from the shaft 235 on the wave 245 during slippage of the clutch assembly 240 is transmitted. In particular, the first control unit 200 for controlling the operation of the clutch assembly 240 trained to the clutch assembly 240 into a so-called micro-slip state.

As mentioned briefly above, the first control unit 200 for controlling the operation of the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 formed according to stored operating routines. It is for example for opening the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 , Pushing the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 and closing the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 formed according to stored operating routines. The first control unit 200 is to control the operation of the clutch assembly 242 trained to the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 to bring into a slip state, with torque from the shaft 241 on the wave 243 during the slip of the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 is transmitted. In particular, the first control unit 200 for controlling the operation of the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 trained to the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 into a so-called micro-slip state.

The first control unit 200 is for communication with the transmission 250 formed via a connection L250. The first control unit 200 is for controlling the operation of the transmission 250 formed according to stored operating routines and / or on the basis of a vehicle operator request. Thus, the first control unit 200 for shifting the gear stages of the transmission 250 educated.

In one embodiment, a temperature sensor (not shown) for continuously determining a prevailing temperature Tclutch of the clutch assembly 240 available. This sensor is for continuously transmitting signals indicative of a prevailing temperature Tclutch of the clutch assembly 240 to the first control unit 200 formed via a connection (not shown). The determined temperature Tclutch can be used as a parameter for interrupting / deactivating the method according to the invention shown here, when the determined temperature Tclutch exceeds a predetermined temperature value.

In one embodiment, a prevailing temperature Tclutch of the clutch assembly 240 be estimated in a suitable way. In an embodiment, the first control unit 200 for continuously calculating a prevailing temperature Tclutch of the clutch assembly 240 be formed on the basis of a model stored therein. The calculated temperature Tclutch may be used as a parameter for interrupting / deactivating the method of the present invention shown here when the detected temperature Tclutch exceeds a predetermined temperature value.

A second control unit 210 is for communication with the first control unit 200 formed via a connection L210. It can be detachable with the first control unit 200 be connected. It can be a control unit outside the vehicle 100 act. It can be designed to carry out the method steps according to the invention according to the invention. It can be used to cross-download software to the first control unit 200 , in particular software for applying the method according to the invention, be formed. It may alternatively be used for communication with the first control unit 200 be formed on board the vehicle via an internal network. It can be used to perform functions similar to those of the first control unit 200 such as determining a development of engine speed N during engine operation during a steady state of skid to diagnose engine fuel injection units 230 and optionally configured to adjust the operation of particular fuel injection units.

3 schematically shows a system 299 comprising four cylinders of the respect 2 shown internal combustion engine 230 , The cylinders are with 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 designated. Every cylinder 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 includes one via suitable means 320 with a crankshaft 330 connected pistons. The motor 230 may alternatively have any suitable number of cylinders such as 2, 4, 5, 6, 8 or 12 cylinders. Here is for simplicity only a reference numeral 320 specified. During operation of the internal combustion engine 230 generates the combustion of fuel in the cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 a torque that passes over the crankshaft to a flywheel 340 and the wave 235 on the clutch assembly 240 is transmitted. According to one embodiment, the torque is also or alternatively applied to the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 transferred (see 2 ).

In one embodiment, a pressure sensor 370 at the common rail unit 360 for continuously determining a prevailing pressure P of the fuel of the common rail unit 360 arranged. This pressure sensor 270 is for continuously transmitting signals S370, which include information about a pressure P, to the first control unit 200 formed via a connection L370.

In one embodiment, a speed sensor is 350 on the flywheel 340 for continuously determining a prevailing engine speed N of the engine 230 arranged. This speed sensor 235 is for continuously transmitting signals S350 comprising information about a prevailing engine speed N to the first control unit 200 formed via a connection L350.

The first control unit 200 is designed to automatically determine if a given vehicle operating condition exists. This may be done in any suitable manner, for example, by determining whether the vehicle is traveling on a non-planar surface and / or determining whether the engine is running at a particular engine load, etc. The default vehicle operating condition is a condition in which Vibrations from outside the engine by controlling the clutch assembly 240 in a stable slip state to provide torque transfer for proper diagnosis and adjustment of the fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 eliminated or reduced.

The first control unit 200 is to, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, automatic control of the clutch assembly 240 formed in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations.

The first control unit 200 is for automatically determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation during the stable slip state for diagnosis of the fuel injection units 310 and optionally, adjusting the actuation of particular fuel injection units 310 educated.

According to one embodiment, the first control unit 200 to determine Adjustment results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed N, the amount of injected fuel and the common rail pressure P formed. Thereby, a 3D table of adaptation data for different vehicle operating conditions can be generated and stored in a memory of the first control unit 200 get saved. The determined adaptation data may be from the first control unit 200 to properly adjust the fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 be used.

According to one embodiment, the first control unit 200 for determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed N, the amount of injected fuel and the common rail pressure P, and the ignition timing / injection timing. Thereby, a 4D table of adaptation data for various vehicle operating conditions can be generated and stored in a memory of the first control unit 200 get saved. The determined adaptation data may be from the first control unit 200 to properly adjust the fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 be used.

• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl N während des Motorbetriebs;
• – Ermitteln, ob ein vorgegebener Fahrzeug-Betriebszustand vorliegt;
• – beim Vorliegen des vorgegebenen Fahrzeug-Betriebszustands Steuern der Kupplungsanordnung 240 in einen stabilen Schlupfzustand zum Erzielen einer Drehmomentübertragung und Verringern der Übertragung von Schwingungen; und
• – Ermitteln einer Entwicklung der Motordrehzahl N während des Motorbetriebs während des stabilen Schlupfzustands zur Diagnose der Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten 310 und gegebenenfalls Anpassen der Betätigung von bestimmten Kraftstoff-Einspritzeinheiten 310.

4a schematically shows a flowchart of a method for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine 230 of a vehicle 100 comprising a clutch assembly 240 a transmission of the vehicle, wherein the fuel injection by a number of fuel injection units 310 a number of engine cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 . 14 he follows. The method comprises a first method step s401. The method step s401 comprises the steps for:

• - determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation;
• - Determine whether a given vehicle operating condition exists;
• - In the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating state controlling the clutch assembly 240 in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations; and
• - Determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation during the stable slip state for diagnosis of the fuel injection units 310 and optionally, adjusting the actuation of particular fuel injection units 310 ,

After method step s401, the method ends / returns to the beginning.

4b schematically shows a flowchart of a method for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine 230 of a vehicle 100 comprising a clutch assembly 240 a transmission of the vehicle 100 wherein the fuel injection is by a number of fuel injection units 310 a number of engine cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 . 14 he follows. The method comprises a first method step s410.

The method step s410 includes the step of continuously determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation. This can be done with the engine speed sensor 350 respectively. As a result, an engine speed pattern is continuously determined. The engine pattern reflects the operation of the cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 contrary. After the step s410, a subsequent step s420 is executed.

The method step s420 comprises the step of determining whether a predetermined vehicle operating state exists. The default vehicle operating condition is a condition in which it is appropriate / desirable / feasible / fit to analyze and optionally adjust the fuel injection units 310 from each of the cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 perform. In such a predetermined vehicle operating condition, vibrations likely to occur in the powertrain occur, thereby increasing the speed of the flywheel 340 being affected.

The default vehicle operating condition may include having a prevailing engine speed B within a particular engine speed interval. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include a prevailing temperature Tclutch of the clutch assembly 240 is below a predetermined temperature value. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that of the engine 230 delivered torque is relatively constant. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that the engine speed N is relatively constant. The predetermined vehicle operating condition may include that a prevailing operating condition of the engine 230 in any respect is determined to be relevant to the diagnosis / adaptation of the fuel injection units.

When it is determined that the predetermined vehicle operating condition exists, a subsequent step s430 is executed. If it is determined that the predetermined vehicle operating state is not present, the method step s410 is executed.

The method step s430 comprises the step of, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating state, controlling the clutch arrangement 240 in a stable slip state for Achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations. The stable slip state may be a so-called micro-slip state. As a result, substantially complete torque transmission can be achieved while reducing or minimizing vibration from sources outside the engine. During the stable slip condition, there is a difference between rotational speeds of the shaft 235 and the wave 245 relatively small.

Method step s430 may also include the step of, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling the clutch assembly 242 in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations. The stable slip state may be a so-called micro-slip state. As a result, a substantially complete torque transmission is achieved while vibrations from the drive unit 244 be reduced or minimized.

The method step s430 may be the step of controlling all the clutch arrangements of the vehicle 100 comprise, wherein the clutch assemblies are connected to one or more PTO units and the engine 230 comprising the gearbox 250 and the drive unit 244 are driven. This allows a more detailed analysis of the fuel injection units 310 are performed on the basis of the engine speed analysis according to the invention during the stable slip state of all relevant clutch assemblies and thus a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations can be achieved. That is, method step s430 may include the step of, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling further clutch assemblies of powertrains of the vehicle to a stable slip condition to achieve torque transfer and reduce transmission of vibrations.

According to one embodiment, method step s430 includes the step of initiating the control of the clutch assembly 240 and other relevant clutch assemblies into the stable slip condition upon determining the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern as compared to an expected engine speed pattern due to variations in the injection of the fuel injection units 310 ,

After the step s430, a subsequent step s440 is executed.

The method step s440 includes the step of diagnosing the fuel injection units based on the continuously determined development of the engine speed N during engine operation during the stable slip state. This can be done by the first control unit 200 by comparing a pattern of the detected development of the engine speed N during the engine operation during the stable slip state with a reference engine speed pattern in consideration of an operating point of the engine 230 respectively. This can be done by the first control unit 200 by comparing a pattern of the detected development of the engine speed N during engine operation during the steady state slip with a reference engine speed pattern considering a prevailing engine speed N and / or a metered amount of fuel and / or a prevailing pressure P of the common rail system 260 and / or the ignition timing / injection timing. This allows one or more fuel injection units 310 be identified with respect to a different fuel injection. An identified fuel injection unit 310 can not deliver enough fuel or too much fuel. This can be used to determine the extent to which an identified fuel injection unit 310 deviates, that is, to what extent an identified fuel injection unit 310 too much or too little fuel supplies.

After the step s440, a subsequent step s450 is executed. Step s450 may include the step of performing an adjustment process of the identified variant fuel injection units 310 include. As a result, proper compensation control is performed to ensure correct / current / intended fueling of all cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 of the motor 230 to achieve.

The method according to the invention can be deactivated at any time if certain vehicle conditions exist. For example, if the determined temperature Tclutch the clutch assembly 240 and / or the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 exceeds a predetermined temperature value, the inventive method can be deactivated. As a result, the control of the clutch can be interrupted and carried out according to other routines or user requirements.

After method step s450, the method ends / returns to the beginning.

5 shows a diagram of a version of a device 500 , In relation to 2 described control units 200 and 210 can in one version the device 500 include. The device 500 includes a nonvolatile memory 520 , a data processing unit 510 and a read / write memory 550 , The non-volatile memory 520 has a first memory element 530 in which a computer program, for example an operating system, for controlling the function of the device 500 is stored. The device 500 Also includes a bus controller, a serial communication port, I / O means, an A / D converter, a date and time input and transmission unit, an event counter, and an interrupt controller (not shown). The non-volatile memory 520 also has a second memory element 540 on.

The computer program P includes routines for achieving the proper fuel injection into an internal combustion engine 230 of a vehicle 100 comprising a clutch assembly 240 one Transmission of the vehicle 100 wherein the fuel injection is by a number of fuel injection units 310 a number of engine cylinders 11 . 12 . 13 . 14 he follows.

The computer program P may include routines for determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation.

The computer program P may include routines for determining whether a given vehicle operating condition exists.

The computer program P may have routines for, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling the clutch assembly 240 in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations formed means.

The computer program P may have routines for, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling the clutch assembly 240 and the auxiliary clutch assembly 242 in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations.

The computer program P may have routines for determining a development of the engine speed N during engine operation during the stable slip state for diagnosis of the fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 and optionally to adjust the actuation of certain deviating fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 include.

The computer program P may determine the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern N as compared to an expected engine speed pattern N due to variations in the injection of the fuel injection units 11 . 12 . 13 and 14 include.

The computer program P may have routines for, upon determining the presence of the deviations in the engine speed pattern, triggering the control of the clutch assembly 240 in the stable slip condition.

The computer program P may have routines for, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating state, controlling further clutch arrangements 242 of drive units 244 of the vehicle into a stable slip state for achieving torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations.

The computer program P may include routines for determining adjustment results for a number of combinations of operating parameters including the engine speed N, the amount of injected fuel, and the common rail pressure P.

The computer program P may include routines for determining adjustment results for a number of combinations of operating parameters including the engine speed N, the amount of injected fuel and the common rail pressure P, and the injection timing / ignition timing.

The program P may be in executable form or compressed form in memory 560 and / or a read / write memory 550 get saved.

If it is determined that the data processing unit 510 performs a specific function, it means that they have a specific part of the in the separate memory 560 stored program or a specific part of the read / write memory 550 stored program.

The data processing device 510 can via a data bus 515 with a data connection 599 communicate. The non-volatile memory 520 is used for communication with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 512 , The separate memory 560 is used for communication with the data processing unit via a data bus 511 , The read / write memory 550 is for communication with the data processing unit 510 via a data bus 514 educated. For example, connections L210, L230, L240, L250, L310, L350, and L270 may be to the data port 599 be connected (see 2 ).

When data is at the data port 599 are received, they are temporarily in the second memory element 540 saved. When received input data is temporarily stored, the data processing unit is 510 for performing the code execution as described above.

Portions of the methods described herein may be used by the device 500 with the data processing unit 510 that's done in the store 560 or read / write memory 550 stored program executes. When the device 500 executing the program, the methods described here are executed.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention This invention is for illustrative and descriptive purposes only. It is not intended to be exhaustive nor to limit the invention to the variants described. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. The embodiments have been chosen and described to illustrate the principles of the invention and its practical applications, and thus to enable one skilled in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments and with the various modifications suitable for the particular purpose.

The components and features described above may be combined within the scope of the invention between various described embodiments.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 2006/0047405 [0006]

Claims (12)

Method for obtaining the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine ( 230 ) of a vehicle ( 100 ) comprising a coupling arrangement ( 240 ) of a transmission of the vehicle, wherein the fuel injection by a number of fuel injection units ( 310 ) a number of engine cylinders ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 14 ), comprising the steps of: determining (s410) a development of engine speed (N) during engine operation; Determining (s420) whether a predetermined vehicle operating condition exists; characterized by the steps of: - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating state, controlling (s430) the clutch arrangement ( 240 ) in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations; and determining a development of the engine speed during the engine operation during the stable slip state for the diagnosis (s440) of the fuel injection units ( 310 ) and, if appropriate, for adjusting (s450) the actuation of certain fuel injection units ( 310 ). Method according to claim 1, comprising the steps of: determining (s430) the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern compared to an expected engine speed pattern due to deviations in the injection of the fuel injection units ( 310 ); and - upon detecting the presence of deviations, triggering the control (s430) of the clutch assembly ( 240 ) in the stable slip state. Method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: - in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating state, controlling (s430) further coupling arrangements ( 244 ) of drive units of the vehicle ( 100 ) to a stable slip state for achieving torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibration. Method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: - determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed (N), the amount of injected fuel and the common rail pressure (P). System for achieving the correct fuel injection in an internal combustion engine of a vehicle ( 100 ) comprising a coupling arrangement ( 240 ) of a transmission of the vehicle ( 100 ), wherein a number of fuel injection units ( 310 ) for performing fuel injection into a number of engine cylinders ( 11 . 12 . 13 . 14 ), comprising: means (15) for determining a development of the engine speed (N) during engine operation ( 340 . 350 . 200 . 210 . 500 ); For determining whether a given vehicle operating condition exists, means ( 200 . 210 . 500 ); characterized by: - for, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling the clutch assembly ( 240 ) in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibrations ( 200 . 210 . 500 ); and - for determining a development of the engine speed during engine operation during the stable slip state for the diagnosis of the fuel injection units ( 310 ) and possibly adjusting the operation of certain fuel injection units ( 310 ) resources ( 200 . 210 . 500 ). The system of claim 5, comprising: - determining the presence of deviations in an engine speed pattern compared to an expected engine speed pattern due to variations in the injection of the fuel injection units ( 310 ) resources ( 200 . 210 . 500 ); and - for, upon detecting the presence of deviations, initiating the control of the clutch assembly ( 240 ) means in the stable slip state ( 200 . 210 . 500 ). A system according to claim 5 or 6, comprising: - for, in the presence of the predetermined vehicle operating condition, controlling further clutch arrangements ( 242 ) of power units ( 244 ) of the vehicle in a stable slip state for achieving a torque transmission and reducing the transmission of vibration formed means ( 200 . 210 . 500 ). A system according to any one of claims 5-7, comprising: - means for determining adaptation results for a number of combinations of operating parameters comprising the engine speed (N), the amount of fuel injected and the common rail pressure (P) 200 . 210 . 500 ). Vehicle ( 100 . 110 ) comprising a system according to any one of claims 5-8. Vehicle ( 100 . 110 ) according to claim 9, wherein the vehicle is a truck, bus or passenger car. Computer program (P) for achieving the correct fuel injection in one Internal combustion engine ( 230 ) of a vehicle ( 100 ), wherein the computer program (P) program code for starting an electronic control unit ( 200 . 500 ) or one with the electronic control unit ( 200 . 500 connected computer ( 210 . 500 ) for carrying out the steps of any one of claims 1-4. A computer program product comprising program code stored on a computer-readable medium for performing the method steps of any one of claims 1-4, the computer program being stored on an electronic control unit (10). 200 . 500 ) or one with the electronic control unit ( 200 . 500 connected computer ( 210 . 500 ) is performed.

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