Method for controlling glow plug ignition in a preheater of a hydrocarbon reformer
US8183501B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 2007 |
| Grant date | May 22, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 21, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T10/40
- WIPO fieldEnvironmental technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A method for controlling a glow plug at a desired temperature. In a glow plug off state, the glow plug temperature status is monitored to prepare for the next combustion event. When ignition is requested, a determination is made as to how long full voltage can be applied to bring the glow plug to ignition temperature. A resistance/temperature map is provided to determine the resistance as a function of temperature. Another map is provided of temperature as a function of powering time at a full battery voltage in a First Heating Phase to ensure that the surface temperature of the glow plug will reach a predetermined temperature required to start combustion of an air/fuel mixture. A third map is provided of a PWM duty cycle for a Second Heating Phase to maintain the temperature of the glow plug to ensure flame propagation without damage to the glow plug.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.