Automatic engine oil life determination adjusted for volume of oil exposed to a combustion event
US8392054B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 2010 |
| Grant date | Mar 5, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 11, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF01M2011/1486
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method is provided for determining remaining oil life prior to an oil change in an internal combustion engine that uses a body of oil. The method includes transferring the body of oil to the engine and determining a volume of the transferred body of oil. The method also includes determining a factor representative of a volume of oil from the transferred body of oil that is exposed to a combustion event in the engine. Additionally, the method includes determining the remaining oil life based on the determined volume of the body of oil and the determined factor representative of a volume of oil that is exposed to a combustion event. Moreover, the method includes activating an oil change indicator when the remaining oil life reaches a predetermined level. A system for determining a number of engine revolutions permitted on a volume of oil is also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.