Method for determining fuel composition
US5400762A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 1992 |
| Grant date | Mar 28, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method is provided for checking the function of a fuel composition sensor and for learning the percent alcohol content of a fuel used in a motor vehicle capable of operating on more than one type of fuel, as an alternative to a fuel composition sensor. The present invention improves the reliability of a motor vehicle utilizing a fuel composition sensor by allowing vehicle operation to continue uninterrupted, such as when a short or open condition exists within the sensor. The method first determines whether conditions are such that the percent alcohol content of a fuel should be "learned". If conditions are appropriated, then necessary engine operating conditions are first initialized. The oxygen sensor output signal is checked to determine whether the engine is operating too rich or lean. The value of percent alcohol content stored in the engine control unit's memory is modified in the direction of stoichiometric engine operation. In this manner, the engine is able to "learn" the percent alcohol content of the fuel and make the appropriate adjustments to operating parameters.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.