Patent · US Expired

System and method for detecting cold engine operation

US6243642A · kind A · utility

5Cited by
22References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateMar 31, 1999
Grant dateJun 5, 2001
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 31, 2019

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02T10/12
  • WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A system and method for detecting cold engine operation include determining at least two fluid temperatures and providing an output signal based on the at least two temperatures. Preferably, an engine coolant temperature, an intercooler temperature, and an engine air temperature are determined via appropriate temperature sensors. In one embodiment, the cold engine output signal is activated or asserted if any one of the at least two fluid temperatures is below a corresponding temperature threshold. The cold engine output signal is deactivated when all of the fluid temperatures are above corresponding temperature thresholds (plus hysteresis where applicable). An optional user-selectable parameter provides for actuation of the cold engine output only during idle. The cold engine output signal may be used to control various accessories including coolant heating systems, shutters, or the like. Additional parasitic loads or an exhaust brake may be actuated to increase combustion temperatures by increasing engine load to reduce or eliminate white smoke.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.