Method and arrangement for monitoring the operability of a heater of an oxygen measuring probe
US5327780A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 26, 1992 |
| Grant date | Jul 12, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 26, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02D41/1495
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for monitoring the operability of a heater of an oxygen-measuring probe which is mounted in the exhaust-gas channel of an internal combustion engine. The principle of operation of the invention is based on the fact that the supply voltage of the probe heater drops during loading by the electrical resistance of the heating element. The voltage difference is dependent upon the magnitude of the resistance and therefore at least the three states can be distinguished, namely: normal operation, circuit interruption and short circuit. The operational state of the probe heater which is so determined is displayed to the driver by activation of a corresponding control unit and/or is stored, as required, in a fault memory. The arrangement according to the invention can be realized by a computer or in a compact configuration and is suitable for use in a central control apparatus.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.