Fuel gelling prevention using engine auto start functionality
US10934933B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 31, 2018 |
| Grant date | Mar 2, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 23, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02D2200/0606
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In some embodiments, a fuel temperature sensor is located proximate to a vehicle component that is expected to experience fuel gelling, such as near or within a fuel filter, in order to obtain temperature information that accurately reflects the likelihood of fuel gelling occurring within the component. The proximate fuel temperature sensor can provide more accurate temperature information for components such as fuel filters that are installed at the periphery of the vehicle, compared to other temperature sensors that measure oil temperatures or other temperatures of centrally located vehicle components. In some embodiments, the vehicle is automatically started when the temperature indicated by the fuel temperature sensor falls below a startup temperature threshold value, and is automatically stopped after a predetermined time period or after the temperature reaches a shutdown temperature threshold value.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.