EP3406875B1 - Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems - Google Patents

Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3406875B1
EP3406875B1 EP18170780.3A EP18170780A EP3406875B1 EP 3406875 B1 EP3406875 B1 EP 3406875B1 EP 18170780 A EP18170780 A EP 18170780A EP 3406875 B1 EP3406875 B1 EP 3406875B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
electrically conductive
conductive element
deposit
reducing agent
operating medium
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP18170780.3A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3406875A1 (en
Inventor
Felix Verbücheln
Dieter Rothe
Stephan Schraml
Herbert Albert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MAN Truck and Bus SE
Original Assignee
MAN Truck and Bus SE
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by MAN Truck and Bus SE filed Critical MAN Truck and Bus SE
Priority to EP20176043.6A priority Critical patent/EP3719271B1/en
Publication of EP3406875A1 publication Critical patent/EP3406875A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3406875B1 publication Critical patent/EP3406875B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N13/00—Exhaust or silencing apparatus characterised by constructional features ; Exhaust or silencing apparatus, or parts thereof, having pertinent characteristics not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F01N1/00 - F01N5/00, F01N9/00, F01N11/00
    • F01N13/008—Mounting or arrangement of exhaust sensors in or on exhaust apparatus
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2550/00—Monitoring or diagnosing the deterioration of exhaust systems
    • F01N2550/05—Systems for adding substances into exhaust
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2560/00—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics
    • F01N2560/02—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics the means being an exhaust gas sensor
    • F01N2560/021—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics the means being an exhaust gas sensor for measuring or detecting ammonia NH3
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2560/00—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics
    • F01N2560/05—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics the means being a particulate sensor
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2560/00—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics
    • F01N2560/06—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics the means being a temperature sensor
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2560/00—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics
    • F01N2560/12—Other sensor principles, e.g. using electro conductivity of substrate or radio frequency
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2610/00—Adding substances to exhaust gases
    • F01N2610/02—Adding substances to exhaust gases the substance being ammonia or urea
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2610/00—Adding substances to exhaust gases
    • F01N2610/14—Arrangements for the supply of substances, e.g. conduits
    • F01N2610/1453—Sprayers or atomisers; Arrangement thereof in the exhaust apparatus
    • F01N2610/146—Control thereof, e.g. control of injectors or injection valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01N—GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; GAS-FLOW SILENCERS OR EXHAUST APPARATUS FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01N2610/00—Adding substances to exhaust gases
    • F01N2610/14—Arrangements for the supply of substances, e.g. conduits
    • F01N2610/148—Arrangement of sensors

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for detecting deposits in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, a test bench with a device for detecting deposits, a motor vehicle with a device for detecting deposits and a method for detecting deposits.
  • diesel engines can have a system for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) installed in the exhaust tract.
  • SCR selective catalytic reduction
  • An SCR system includes a reducing agent injector that injects a reducing agent, for example an aqueous urea solution, into an exhaust pipe.
  • the reducing agent evaporates in the hot exhaust gas and can reduce the nitrogen oxides with the help of a catalytic converter.
  • the reducing agent may not evaporate completely.
  • reductant deposits can form in the exhaust pipe.
  • Such reducing agent deposits can, for example, adhere to the walls in the exhaust pipe or to components that are installed in the exhaust pipe. This can impair the respective function of the component.
  • non-evaporated reducing agent is not used for nitrogen oxide conversion and thus reduces the efficiency of the system.
  • the deposits can assume large dimensions, up to the considerable narrowing of the flow cross-section.
  • the DE 10 2010 042 226 A1 discloses an apparatus for detecting an abnormal condition of a diesel particulate filter (DPF).
  • the DPF is placed in the exhaust pipe of the diesel engine.
  • the electrical resistance type PM sensor is placed on a downstream side of the DPF and detects particulate matter contained in an exhaust gas flowing through the DPF.
  • the ECU compares outputs of the PM sensor under a first temperature condition and a second temperature condition, and determines that the DPF is in an abnormal state when the output difference exceeds a predetermined value.
  • the first temperature condition is the temperature of the sensing electrodes in the PM sensor equal to the temperature of the exhaust gas.
  • the second temperature condition the temperature is higher.
  • the DE 11 2011 105 770 B4 discloses a control device for an internal combustion engine that includes an SCR system and a particle sensor downstream of the SCR system.
  • the particle sensor is suitable for generating an output signal which corresponds to an amount of particles deposited on an element.
  • the control device comprises a detection means for detecting a situation of the element on which a urea-related substance is deposited.
  • a temperature control means performs control to bring the temperature of the element to a first temperature range when the situation in which the urea-related substance is separated is detected.
  • the JP 2013-122218 A discloses an exhaust emission control device comprising a first temperature sensor disposed at a lower end of a communication passage downstream of a urea water supply position and upstream of an SCR catalyst, and a second temperature sensor disposed at an upper end of the communication passage immediately above the first temperature sensor.
  • a deposit determination part determines whether an absolute value of a difference between a first temperature measured by the first temperature sensor and a second temperature measured by the second temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The deposit determination part determines that urea-derived deposits are deposited in the communication channel when the absolute value of the difference is equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold.
  • the DE 10 2008 018 063 A1 discloses a method for improving the performance of an exhaust after-treatment system of a vehicle.
  • the method includes estimating a build up of urea in the SCR catalyst to determine timing to regenerate the build up of SCR catalyst to remove the build up of urea.
  • the WO 2015/150498 A1 discloses a device for detecting urea deposits in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine.
  • the device comprises at least one radiation receiver, which in use is arranged downstream of the reducing agent nozzle within the exhaust gas line.
  • the device further comprises an electronic one Control unit in communication with the radiation receiver.
  • the radiation receiver communicates radiation data to the control unit, which enables the control unit to determine whether deposits have formed within the exhaust pipe.
  • emissions such as unburned hydrocarbons and particles such as soot and ash can increase the back pressure in components such as a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particle filter.
  • the invention is based on the object of providing a device and a method which enables an alternative and possibly improved detection of deposits.
  • the invention is based in particular on the object of enabling automated and rapid detection of deposits, preferably of reducing agent deposits, while the internal combustion engine is in operation.
  • the device is designed for detecting operating material deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, according to the features of claim 1.
  • a check can be carried out in real time for deposits, in particular deposits of operating materials, deposits of reducing agents and / or deposits of combustion products. This also enables deposits to be detected at an early stage, so that larger accumulations can be prevented. If deposits are detected, appropriate countermeasures can be initiated, for example.
  • the evaluation unit is designed to carry out a check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on a change in the electrical characteristic value over time.
  • the evaluation unit is designed to carry out a check based on a comparison between the electrical characteristic value and a reference value, in particular a reference value for the given operating conditions. This has the advantage that any deposits that develop that gradually change the electrical characteristic can be detected. The comparison with a reference value for the given operating conditions also enables a high-resolution detection of deposits.
  • the electrically conductive element is a wire and / or a sheet metal. A simple construction of the device can thus be realized.
  • a plurality of electrically conductive elements is provided, at least one electrical characteristic value being measured for each electrically conductive element. This makes it possible to check for deposits at various points in the exhaust tract.
  • the electrically conductive element is a sheet metal that lies in a plane that encloses an angle, preferably a vertical angle, with a longitudinal axis of the exhaust gas line.
  • the electrically conductive element is thus aligned in such a way that liquid or solid particles in the exhaust gas meet the electrically conductive element directly.
  • the evaluation unit is designed to determine a degree of the deposit, to determine the presence of the deposit and / or to determine a change in the deposit over time. Depending on the requirements and the complexity of the evaluation, more or less information about a deposit can be determined.
  • the device has a temperature sensor for measuring an exhaust gas temperature, which is arranged in the exhaust pipe.
  • the evaluation unit is in communication connection with the temperature sensor and is designed to additionally check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor.
  • the electrical characteristic depends on the temperature. Via a difference between a setpoint for the electrical characteristic value for the measured exhaust gas temperature and an actual value for the electrical characteristic value can be deduced from the presence of a deposit.
  • the device has a circuit which has the electrically conductive element and furthermore in particular a switch for closing the circuit and / or a voltage source.
  • the evaluation unit is further designed to receive data relating to an operating point of the internal combustion engine and to additionally determine the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on the data.
  • the data can be made available, for example, by an engine control unit of the internal combustion engine.
  • the measuring device preferably has a current measuring device which is arranged for measuring a current through the electrically conductive element and / or the circuit.
  • the measuring device has a voltage measuring device which is arranged to measure a voltage applied to the electrically conductive element and / or the circuit.
  • the measuring device has a resistance measuring device which is arranged to measure an electrical resistance of the electrically conductive element and / or of the circuit.
  • the device has an operating medium injector, in particular a reducing agent injector.
  • the equipment injector is arranged for introducing an equipment, in particular a reducing agent, into the exhaust pipe.
  • the electrically conductive element is arranged in particular downstream of the equipment injector. This has the advantage that the electrically conductive element can be used to check whether the operating medium, in particular the reducing agent, has been introduced without the formation of deposits.
  • the device furthermore has a control unit which is in communication with the equipment injector and is designed to control the equipment injector based on the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element.
  • a control unit which is in communication with the equipment injector and is designed to control the equipment injector based on the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element.
  • a metering rate of the equipment injector can be adjusted.
  • control unit refers to control electronics which, depending on the training, can take on control tasks and / or regulation tasks.
  • control unit is designed to reduce a resource dosing rate of the resource injector if the evaluation unit determines the presence of a deposit, the specific degree of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value and / or the change in the time of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value.
  • control unit is designed to control the internal combustion engine to increase an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow rate if the evaluation unit determines the presence of a deposit, the certain degree of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value and / or the change in the deposit over time exceeds the predetermined limit. This may allow the deposit to dissolve.
  • control unit is designed to determine and / or update a maximum operating agent metering rate for one or a plurality of engine operating points of the internal combustion engine, in which no deposit is determined by the evaluation unit.
  • a map for maximum injection of the equipment can be determined on an engine test bench. This can be particularly relevant for reducing agent injectors in an SCR system.
  • the invention further relates to a test bench, in particular an engine test bench, or a motor vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle, with the device as disclosed herein.
  • the invention also relates to a method for detecting operating agent deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine.
  • the method can include introducing reducing agent into an exhaust pipe.
  • the method comprises measuring an electrical characteristic value of an electrically conductive element which is arranged in the exhaust pipe.
  • the method also has a check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on the electrical characteristic value and controls the resource injector based on the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element by means of a control device which is in communication with the resource injector.
  • the use of an automated evaluation enables a real-time check for deposits.
  • the deposits can in are captured at an early stage. Possibly. Suitable countermeasures can be initiated to prevent further deposits and / or to reduce or dissolve the existing deposits.
  • the method can use the device as disclosed herein.
  • the Figure 1 shows a device 10 for detecting reducing agent deposits.
  • the device 10 has an exhaust pipe 12, an electrically conductive element 15, a measuring device 16 and an evaluation unit 18.
  • the exhaust pipe 12 forms a section of an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, not shown.
  • the exhaust pipe 12 can be arranged, for example, downstream of an exhaust manifold of the internal combustion engine for guiding exhaust gas.
  • Arrows A and B show a direction of flow through exhaust pipe 12.
  • a reducing agent injector 14 projects into the exhaust line 12.
  • the reducing agent injector 14 is designed to inject a reducing agent, for example an aqueous urea solution, into the exhaust line 12.
  • a reducing agent for example an aqueous urea solution
  • the reducing agent can Evaporate hot exhaust gas and reduce nitrogen oxides (NO x ) in the exhaust gas with the aid of a catalytic converter.
  • another resource injector or no injector at all can be provided instead of the reducing agent injector 14. It goes without saying that the device can be provided, in particular, without an operating medium injector (reducing agent injector) if, for example, no SCR system is present and / or (only) combustion product deposits are to be detected.
  • an operating medium injector reducing agent injector
  • the reducing agent injector 14 is connected to a reducing agent tank (not shown) via a reducing agent pump (not shown).
  • a control unit 20 can control the reducing agent injector 14 for injecting reducing agent.
  • the electrically conductive element 15 is arranged in the exhaust gas line 12 downstream of the reducing agent injector 14.
  • the electrically conductive element 15 is part of a circuit 17 with a voltage source 24.
  • the electrically conductive element 15 can be formed, for example, as a sheet or a wire.
  • the electrically conductive element 15 can in particular be arranged in a region of the exhaust gas line in which a flow resistance is arranged in addition to the electrically conductive element.
  • a flow resistance can be formed, for example, by a curved section of the exhaust pipe or a component in the exhaust pipe. Installations in the exhaust pipe can be, for example, a catalytic converter, a mixer or a particle filter. Reductant deposits can occur, particularly in these areas.
  • the electrically conductive element 15 can also itself be designed as a flow resistance, for example in the form of a sheet. In the Figure 1 two further conceivable arrangements for an electrically conductive element are given by way of example with the reference symbols “X” and “Y”.
  • the device has a plurality of electrically conductive elements.
  • the measuring device 16 is connected to the electrically conductive element 15 directly or indirectly via the circuit 17 in accordance with its measuring principle.
  • the measuring device 16 is designed to measure an electrical characteristic value (for example voltage, current, resistance) of the electrically conductive element 15.
  • the measuring device 16 can be used as a resistance measuring device for measuring an electrical resistance, as a voltage measuring device be designed for measuring an electrical voltage and / or as a current measuring device for measuring an electrical current.
  • the measuring device 16 is electronically connected to the evaluation unit 18.
  • the measuring device 16 is connected to the electrically conductive element 15 in accordance with its measuring principle. In the example shown, the measuring device 16 is arranged parallel to the electrically conductive element 15, so that, for example, a voltage applied to the electrically conductive element 15 can be measured.
  • the evaluation unit 18 can receive and evaluate the electrical characteristic value measured by the measuring device 16. The evaluation unit 18 can in particular determine whether there is a reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 or not. The determination is made as a function of the electrical characteristic value received. If there is a reductant deposit on the electrically conductive element 15, it can be concluded that there are further reductant deposits in the exhaust pipe and that the injected reductant does not evaporate completely.
  • a reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 causes the electrically conductive element 15 to cool down, since the hot exhaust gases no longer flow around the electrically conductive element 15.
  • the cooling of the electrically conductive element 15 leads to a change in the electrical conductivity (electrical resistance) of the electrically conductive element 15. This change can be measured by the measuring device 16 and assigned to a reducing agent deposit by the evaluation unit 18. If the deposit on the electrically conductive element is electrically conductive, this also changes the measured electrical characteristic value. This change can be assigned to a reducing agent deposit.
  • the evaluation unit can carry out a check for a reducing agent deposit based on a comparison between an electrical characteristic value of the electrically conductive element 15 and a reference value for the given operating conditions.
  • the evaluation unit 18 can additionally determine a degree of reducing agent deposition based on the electrical characteristic value. A large change in the electrical characteristic indicates a higher level of reducing agent deposits conclude. In addition, the evaluation unit can determine a change over time, in particular of a size of a reducing agent deposit.
  • control unit 20 which is electronically connected to the evaluation unit 18, can set a reducing agent dosing rate by the reducing agent injector 14 depending on the determination of a reducing agent deposit.
  • control unit 20 may reduce a reductant dosing rate through the reductant injector 14 if reductant deposition has been determined.
  • a reductant dosing rate for example, an opening frequency, an opening degree and / or an opening duration of the reducing agent injector 14 can be reduced.
  • control unit 20 it is also possible for the control unit 20 to increase a reductant dosing rate by the reductant injector 14 if no reductant deposition has been detected.
  • An increase in the reducing agent metering rate can be particularly useful if a nitrogen oxide sensor (not shown) detects an excessively high nitrogen oxide concentration downstream of the catalyst for selective catalytic reduction.
  • a nitrogen oxide sensor (not shown) detects an excessively high nitrogen oxide concentration downstream of the catalyst for selective catalytic reduction.
  • an opening frequency, an opening degree and / or an opening time of the reducing agent injector 14 can be increased.
  • the control unit 20 can be designed as an electronic control unit in a motor vehicle.
  • the motor vehicle can in particular be a commercial vehicle such as a bus or a truck.
  • the control unit 20 can be designed, for example, as a computer system of a test bench, for example an engine test bench.
  • the control unit 20 can also be electronically connected to a switch 22 of the circuit 17.
  • the control unit 20 can close the switch 22 if a check for reducing agent deposits is to be carried out. This can always be the case, for example, when reducing agent is injected from the reducing agent injector 14 becomes.
  • the switch 22 can also be closed permanently if a continuous check for reducing agent deposits is carried out.
  • the device 10 can also have a temperature sensor 26.
  • the temperature sensor 26 is designed and arranged to measure a temperature of an exhaust gas flow in the exhaust line 12.
  • the temperature sensor 26 can partially protrude into the exhaust line 12.
  • the evaluation unit 18 is connected to the temperature sensor 26 for receiving measured temperatures.
  • the evaluation unit 18 can consequently additionally determine a check for a reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 as a function of an exhaust gas temperature.
  • a difference between an electrical conductivity of the element 15 at a temperature that corresponds to the exhaust gas temperature and an actually determined electrical conductivity (via the electrical characteristic value) can be examined.
  • the evaluation unit 18 can additionally or alternatively receive information relating to a current operating point of the internal combustion engine. This information can also be used to check for reducing agent deposits.
  • the Figure 2 shows an exemplary method for determining a map that relates a maximum reducing agent metering rate in relation to an engine operating point.
  • the engine operating point can be characterized, for example, by a load on the internal combustion engine, a cylinder pressure, a cylinder temperature, an accelerator pedal position, a rotational speed of the internal combustion engine, a torque of the internal combustion engine, an output power of the internal combustion engine, a fuel consumption of the internal combustion engine, an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow quantity of the internal combustion engine be.
  • a new engine operating point is set for the internal combustion engine.
  • the internal combustion engine is operated with this new engine operating point.
  • the maximum possible reducing agent metering rate is subsequently to be determined for this engine operating point.
  • a minimum dosage of the reducing agent is set in step S102.
  • the minimum dosage of the reducing agent can be achieved, for example, by the design and / or controllability of the reducing agent injector 14.
  • the minimum dosage is set in the form of a control command with which the reducing agent injector 14 is activated.
  • the control command for actuating the reducing agent injector 14 can relate to an opening duration, an opening frequency and / or an opening degree of the reducing agent injector 14.
  • step S104 a reducing agent is introduced into the exhaust line 12 through the reducing agent injector 14.
  • the reducing agent is introduced in accordance with the previously set dosage.
  • step S106 the measuring device 16 measures an electrical characteristic value of the electrically conductive element 15.
  • step S108 the electrical characteristic value is processed by the evaluation unit 18.
  • the evaluation unit 18 checks for the presence of reducing agent deposits on the electrically conductive element 15 based on the electrical characteristic value.
  • step S110 it is checked whether the evaluation unit 18 has determined a reducing agent deposit in step S118. If reductant deposition has been determined, proceed to step S112. If no reduction deposit has been determined, proceed to step S116.
  • the limit value can be defined in such a way that only small, specific reductant deposits remain insignificant, since these can result, for example, from measurement inaccuracies etc.
  • the limit value can be defined, for example, as a tolerance range around a reference value or as a percentage change in the electrical characteristic value within a predetermined period of time.
  • step S114 the map to be created is updated in step S114.
  • the current reducing agent metering rate or the previously set reducing agent metering rate, at which the reduction deposits have not yet exceeded a limit value is updated as the maximum possible reducing agent metering rate for the set engine operating point.
  • the method begins again in step S100 with the setting of a new engine operating point for which a maximum metering rate is to be determined.
  • step S112 If no limit has been exceeded (step S112) or no deposit has been determined (step S110), the reducing agent metering rate is increased in step S116.
  • the process begins again at step S104 with the introduction of the reducing agent.
  • FIG. 4 shows a method that can be used during the operation of a motor vehicle.
  • Steps S200 to S208 can be carried out essentially like steps S104 to S112, so that a detailed description is omitted in order to avoid repetitions.
  • step S206 If no deposit is determined in step S206 or no limit value is exceeded in step S208, the method is carried out in a further loop with a restart in step S200.
  • step S210 If a limit value is exceeded in step S208, suitable countermeasures can be initiated in step S210.
  • an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow rate can be increased.
  • a map for example stored in the control unit, can be updated in step S210 with regard to the maximum reducing agent metering rate.
  • a dosing rate can be adjusted in step S212. For example, a dosing rate can be increased if no deposits are found or no limit value is exceeded. A dosing rate can be reduced, for example, if a limit value for the deposit is exceeded.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Exhaust Gas After Treatment (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Ablagerungen in einem Abgastrakt eines Verbrennungsmotors, einen Prüfstand mit einer Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Ablagerungen, ein Kraftfahrzeug mit einer Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Ablagerungen und ein Verfahren zur Erfassung von Ablagerungen.The invention relates to a device for detecting deposits in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, a test bench with a device for detecting deposits, a motor vehicle with a device for detecting deposits and a method for detecting deposits.

Dieselmotoren können zur Verringerung der ausgestoßenen Stickoxide ein im Abgastrakt installiertes System zur selektiven katalytischen Reduktion (engl. SCR "selective catalytic reduction") aufweisen. Ein SCR-System umfasst einen Reduktionsmittelinjektor, der ein Reduktionsmittel, zum Beispiel eine wässrige Harnstofflösung, in eine Abgasleitung einspritzt. Das Reduktionsmittel verdampft im heißen Abgas und kann die Stickoxide mit Hilfe eines Katalysators reduzieren.In order to reduce the nitrogen oxides emitted, diesel engines can have a system for selective catalytic reduction (SCR) installed in the exhaust tract. An SCR system includes a reducing agent injector that injects a reducing agent, for example an aqueous urea solution, into an exhaust pipe. The reducing agent evaporates in the hot exhaust gas and can reduce the nitrogen oxides with the help of a catalytic converter.

Unter bestimmten Bedingungen, zum Beispiel niedrigen Abgastemperaturen, kann es vorkommen, dass das Reduktionsmittel nicht vollständig verdampft. Als eine Folge können sich Reduktionsmittelablagerungen in der Abgasleitung bilden. Derartige Reduktionsmittelablagerungen können sich beispielsweise an den Wänden in der Abgasleitung oder an Bauteilen, die in der Abgasleitung installiert sind, anheften. Dies kann die jeweilige Funktion des Bauteils beeinträchtigen. Zudem wird nicht verdampftes Reduktionsmittel nicht zur Stickoxidumwandlung verwendet und verringert somit die Effizienz des Systems. Zusätzlich können die Ablagerungen große Ausmaße, bis hin zur starken Verengung des Strömungsquerschnittes, annehmen.Under certain conditions, for example low exhaust gas temperatures, the reducing agent may not evaporate completely. As a result, reductant deposits can form in the exhaust pipe. Such reducing agent deposits can, for example, adhere to the walls in the exhaust pipe or to components that are installed in the exhaust pipe. This can impair the respective function of the component. In addition, non-evaporated reducing agent is not used for nitrogen oxide conversion and thus reduces the efficiency of the system. In addition, the deposits can assume large dimensions, up to the considerable narrowing of the flow cross-section.

Die DE 10 2010 042 226 A1 offenbart eine Vorrichtung zum Erfassen eines unnormalen Zustands eines Dieselpartikelfilters (DPF). Der DPF ist in dem Abgasrohr der Dieselmaschine platziert. Der PM-Sensor eines elektrischen Widerstandstyps ist auf einer stromabwärts liegenden Seite des DPF platziert und erfasst Partikelstoff, der in einem den DPF durchströmenden Abgas enthalten ist. Die ECU vergleicht Ausgaben des PM-Sensors unter einer ersten Temperaturbedingung und einer zweiten Temperaturbedingung, und bestimmt, dass sich der DPF in einem unnormalen Zustand befindet, wenn die Ausgabedifferenz einen vorbestimmten Wert überschreitet. In der ersten Temperaturbedingung ist die Temperatur der Erfassungselektroden in dem PM-Sensor gleich der Temperatur des Abgases. In der zweiten Temperaturbedingung ist die Temperatur höher.The DE 10 2010 042 226 A1 discloses an apparatus for detecting an abnormal condition of a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The DPF is placed in the exhaust pipe of the diesel engine. The electrical resistance type PM sensor is placed on a downstream side of the DPF and detects particulate matter contained in an exhaust gas flowing through the DPF. The ECU compares outputs of the PM sensor under a first temperature condition and a second temperature condition, and determines that the DPF is in an abnormal state when the output difference exceeds a predetermined value. In the first temperature condition is the temperature of the sensing electrodes in the PM sensor equal to the temperature of the exhaust gas. In the second temperature condition, the temperature is higher.

Die DE 11 2011 105 770 B4 offenbart eine Regelungsvorrichtung für einen Verbrennungsmotor, der ein SCR-System und einen Partikelsensor strömungsabwärts des SCR-Systems umfasst. Der Partikelsensor ist dazu geeignet, ein Ausgangssignal zu erzeugen, das einer Menge an auf einem Element abgeschiedenen Partikeln entspricht. Die Regelungsvorrichtung umfasst ein Erfassungsmittel zur Erfassung einer Situation des Elements, auf dem eine Harnstoff-verwandte Substanz abgeschieden ist. Ein Temperaturregelungsmittel führt eine Regelung durch, um die Temperatur des Elements auf einen ersten Temperaturbereich zu bringen, wenn die Situation, in der die Harnstoff-verwandte Substanz abgeschieden wird, erfasst wird.The DE 11 2011 105 770 B4 discloses a control device for an internal combustion engine that includes an SCR system and a particle sensor downstream of the SCR system. The particle sensor is suitable for generating an output signal which corresponds to an amount of particles deposited on an element. The control device comprises a detection means for detecting a situation of the element on which a urea-related substance is deposited. A temperature control means performs control to bring the temperature of the element to a first temperature range when the situation in which the urea-related substance is separated is detected.

Die JP 2013-122218 A offenbart eine Abgasemissionssteuervorrichtung umfassend einen ersten Temperatursensor, der an einem unteren Ende eines Verbindungskanals stromabwärts einer Zufuhrposition für Harnstoffwasser und stromaufwärts eines SCR-Katalysators angeordnet ist, und einen zweiten Temperatursensor, der an einem oberen Ende des Verbindungskanals unmittelbar über dem ersten Temperatursensor angeordnet ist. Ein Ablagerungsbestimmungsteil bestimmt, ob ein Absolutwert einer Differenz zwischen einer ersten Temperatur, die durch den ersten Temperatursensor gemessen wird, und einer zweiten Temperatur, die durch den zweiten Temperatursensor gemessen wird, gleich oder größer als ein vorbestimmter Schwellenwert ist. Der Ablagerungsbestimmungsteil bestimmt, dass von Harnstoff abgeleitete Ablagerungen in dem Verbindungskanal abgelagert werden, wenn der Absolutwert der Differenz gleich oder größer als ein vorbestimmter Schwellenwert ist.The JP 2013-122218 A discloses an exhaust emission control device comprising a first temperature sensor disposed at a lower end of a communication passage downstream of a urea water supply position and upstream of an SCR catalyst, and a second temperature sensor disposed at an upper end of the communication passage immediately above the first temperature sensor. A deposit determination part determines whether an absolute value of a difference between a first temperature measured by the first temperature sensor and a second temperature measured by the second temperature sensor is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The deposit determination part determines that urea-derived deposits are deposited in the communication channel when the absolute value of the difference is equal to or larger than a predetermined threshold.

Die DE 10 2008 018 063 A1 offenbart ein Verfahren zum Verbessern der Leistung einer Abgasnachbehandlungsanlage eines Fahrzeugs. Das Verfahren umfasst das Schätzen einer Harnstoffablagerungsansammlung in dem SCR-Katalysator, um Steuerzeiten zum Regenerieren des SCR-Katalysators zum Entfernen der Harnstoffablagerungsansammlung zu ermitteln.The DE 10 2008 018 063 A1 discloses a method for improving the performance of an exhaust after-treatment system of a vehicle. The method includes estimating a build up of urea in the SCR catalyst to determine timing to regenerate the build up of SCR catalyst to remove the build up of urea.

Die WO 2015/150498 A1 offenbart eine Vorrichtung zum Erfassen von Harnstoffablagerungen in einem Abgasrohr einer Brennkraftmaschine. Die Vorrichtung umfasst mindestens einen Strahlungsempfänger, der im Gebrauch innerhalb der Abgasleitung stromabwärts der Reduktionsmitteldüse angeordnet ist. Die Vorrichtung umfasst ferner eine elektronische Steuereinheit in Kommunikation mit dem Strahlungsempfänger. Der Strahlungsempfänger kommuniziert Strahlungsdaten an die Steuereinheit, die der Steuereinheit ermöglichen, festzustellen, ob sich Ablagerungen innerhalb der Abgasleitung gebildet haben.The WO 2015/150498 A1 discloses a device for detecting urea deposits in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine. The device comprises at least one radiation receiver, which in use is arranged downstream of the reducing agent nozzle within the exhaust gas line. The device further comprises an electronic one Control unit in communication with the radiation receiver. The radiation receiver communicates radiation data to the control unit, which enables the control unit to determine whether deposits have formed within the exhaust pipe.

Weitere Emissionen wie unverbrannte Kohlenwasserstoffe und Partikel wie Ruß und Asche können zur Erhöhung des Gegendruckes in Bauteilen, wie einem Dieseloxidationskatalysator und einem Dieselpartikelfilter, führen.Other emissions such as unburned hydrocarbons and particles such as soot and ash can increase the back pressure in components such as a diesel oxidation catalytic converter and a diesel particle filter.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren vorzusehen, die eine alternative und ggf. verbesserte Erfassung von Ablagerungen ermöglicht. Der Erfindung liegt insbesondere die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine automatisierte und schnelle Detektion von Ablagerungen, vorzugsweise von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen im laufenden Betrieb des Verbrennungsmotors zu ermöglichen.The invention is based on the object of providing a device and a method which enables an alternative and possibly improved detection of deposits. The invention is based in particular on the object of enabling automated and rapid detection of deposits, preferably of reducing agent deposits, while the internal combustion engine is in operation.

Die Aufgabe wird gelöst durch eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren zur Erfassung von Ablagerungen in einem Abgastrakt eines Verbrennungsmotors gemäß den unabhängigen Ansprüchen. Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen sind in den abhängigen Ansprüchen angegeben.The object is achieved by a device and a method for detecting deposits in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine according to the independent claims. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims.

Die Vorrichtung ist zur Erfassung von Betriebsmittelablagerungen, vorzugsweise Reduktionsmittelablagerungen, gemäß den Merkmalen von Anspruch 1 ausgelegt.The device is designed for detecting operating material deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, according to the features of claim 1.

Durch die Verwendung einer automatisierten Auswertung durch die Auswerteeinheit kann in Echtzeit eine Überprüfung auf Ablagerungen, insbesondere Betriebsmittelablagerungen, Reduktionsmittelablagerungen und/oder Verbrennungsproduktablagerungen, durchgeführt werden. Dies ermöglicht zudem eine Erfassung von Ablagerungen in einem frühen Stadium, sodass größere Ansammlungen verhindert werden können. Werden Ablagerungen erfasst, so können bspw. entsprechende Gegenmaßnahmen eingeleitet werden.By using an automated evaluation by the evaluation unit, a check can be carried out in real time for deposits, in particular deposits of operating materials, deposits of reducing agents and / or deposits of combustion products. This also enables deposits to be detected at an early stage, so that larger accumulations can be prevented. If deposits are detected, appropriate countermeasures can be initiated, for example.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform ist die Auswerteeinheit dazu ausgebildet, eine Überprüfung auf eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element befindliche Ablagerung basierend auf einer zeitlichen Veränderung des elektrischen Kennwerts durchzuführen. Alternativ oder zusätzlich ist die Auswerteeinheit dazu ausgebildet, eine Überprüfung basierend auf einem Vergleich zwischen dem elektrischen Kennwert und einem Referenzwert, insbesondere einen Referenzwert für die gegebenen Betriebsbedingungen, durchzuführen. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass eine entstehende Ablagerung, die allmählich den elektrischen Kennwert verändert, erfasst werden kann. Der Vergleich mit einem Referenzwert zu den gegeben Betriebsbedingungen ermöglicht ebenfalls eine hochauflösende Erfassung von Ablagerungen.In a preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit is designed to carry out a check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on a change in the electrical characteristic value over time. Alternatively or additionally, the evaluation unit is designed to carry out a check based on a comparison between the electrical characteristic value and a reference value, in particular a reference value for the given operating conditions. This has the advantage that any deposits that develop that gradually change the electrical characteristic can be detected. The comparison with a reference value for the given operating conditions also enables a high-resolution detection of deposits.

In einer Ausführungsvariante ist das elektrisch leitfähige Element ein Draht und/oder ein Blech. Damit kann ein einfacher Aufbau der Vorrichtung realisiert werden.In an embodiment variant, the electrically conductive element is a wire and / or a sheet metal. A simple construction of the device can thus be realized.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsvariante ist eine Mehrzahl von elektrisch leitfähigen Elementen vorgesehen, wobei für jedes elektrisch leitfähige Element mindestens ein elektrischer Kennwert gemessen wird. Dies ermöglicht, an verschieden Stellen im Abgastrakt eine Überprüfung auf eine Ablagerung durchzuführen.In a further embodiment variant, a plurality of electrically conductive elements is provided, at least one electrical characteristic value being measured for each electrically conductive element. This makes it possible to check for deposits at various points in the exhaust tract.

In einem Ausführungsbeispiel ist das elektrisch leitfähige Element ein Blech, das in einer Ebene liegt, die mit einer Längsachse der Abgasleitung einen Winkel, vorzugsweise einen senkrechten Winkel, einschließt. Damit ist das elektrisch leitfähige Element so ausgerichtet, dass flüssige oder feste Partikel im Abgas direkt auf das elektrisch leitfähige Element treffen.In one exemplary embodiment, the electrically conductive element is a sheet metal that lies in a plane that encloses an angle, preferably a vertical angle, with a longitudinal axis of the exhaust gas line. The electrically conductive element is thus aligned in such a way that liquid or solid particles in the exhaust gas meet the electrically conductive element directly.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Auswerteeinheit dazu ausgebildet, einen Grad der Ablagerung zu bestimmen, ein Vorhandensein der Ablagerung zu bestimmen und/oder eine zeitliche Änderung der Ablagerung zu bestimmen. Damit können je nach Anforderung und Komplexität der Auswertung mehr oder weniger Informationen zu einer Ablagerung bestimmt werden.In a further exemplary embodiment, the evaluation unit is designed to determine a degree of the deposit, to determine the presence of the deposit and / or to determine a change in the deposit over time. Depending on the requirements and the complexity of the evaluation, more or less information about a deposit can be determined.

In einer Ausführungsform weist die Vorrichtung einen Temperatursensor zur Messung einer Abgastemperatur, der in der Abgasleitung angeordnet ist, auf. Die Auswerteeinheit steht mit dem Temperatursensor in Kommunikationsverbindung und ist dazu ausgebildet, die Überprüfung auf eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element befindliche Ablagerung zusätzlich basierend auf einer von dem Temperatursensor erfassten Temperatur durchzuführen. Der elektrische Kennwert ist temperaturabhängig. Über eine Differenz zwischen einem Sollwert für den elektrischen Kennwert bei der gemessenen Abgastemperatur und einem Istwert für den elektrischen Kennwert kann auf das Vorhandensein einer Ablagerung geschlossen werden.In one embodiment, the device has a temperature sensor for measuring an exhaust gas temperature, which is arranged in the exhaust pipe. The evaluation unit is in communication connection with the temperature sensor and is designed to additionally check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The electrical characteristic depends on the temperature. Via a difference between a setpoint for the electrical characteristic value for the measured exhaust gas temperature and an actual value for the electrical characteristic value can be deduced from the presence of a deposit.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform weist die Vorrichtung einen Stromkreis auf, der das elektrisch leitfähige Element und ferner insbesondere einen Schalter zum Schließen des Stromkreises und/oder eine Spannungsquelle aufweist.In a further embodiment, the device has a circuit which has the electrically conductive element and furthermore in particular a switch for closing the circuit and / or a voltage source.

In einer Weiterbildung ist die Auswerteeinheit ferner dazu ausgebildet, Daten zu empfangen, die sich auf einen Betriebspunkt des Verbrennungsmotors beziehen, und die Überprüfung auf eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element befindliche Ablagerung zusätzlich basierend auf den Daten zu bestimmen.In a further development, the evaluation unit is further designed to receive data relating to an operating point of the internal combustion engine and to additionally determine the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on the data.

Die Daten können bspw. von einem Motorsteuergerät des Verbrennungsmotors zur Verfügung gestellt werden.The data can be made available, for example, by an engine control unit of the internal combustion engine.

Vorzugsweise weist die Messeinrichtung ein Strommessgerät, das zur Messung eines Stroms durch das elektrisch leitfähige Element und/oder den Stromkreis angeordnet ist, auf. Alternativ oder zusätzlich weist die Messeinrichtung ein Spannungsmessgerät, das zur Messung einer an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element und/oder dem Stromkreis anliegenden Spannung angeordnet ist, auf. Alternativ oder ergänzend weist die Messeinrichtung ein Widerstandsmessgerät, das zur Messung eines elektrischen Widerstands des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements und/oder des Stromkreises angeordnet ist, auf.The measuring device preferably has a current measuring device which is arranged for measuring a current through the electrically conductive element and / or the circuit. Alternatively or additionally, the measuring device has a voltage measuring device which is arranged to measure a voltage applied to the electrically conductive element and / or the circuit. As an alternative or in addition, the measuring device has a resistance measuring device which is arranged to measure an electrical resistance of the electrically conductive element and / or of the circuit.

Gemäß der Erfindung weist die Vorrichtung einen Betriebsmittelinjektor, insbesondere einen Reduktionsmittelinjektor, auf. Der Betriebsmittelinjektor ist zum Einleiten eines Betriebsmittels, insbesondere eines Reduktionsmittels, in die Abgasleitung angeordnet. Das elektrisch leitfähige Element ist insbesondere stromabwärts des Betriebsmittelinjektors angeordnet. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass mit dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element überprüft werden kann, ob das Betriebsmittel, insbesondere das Reduktionsmittel, ohne Bildung von Ablagerungen eingeleitet wurde.According to the invention, the device has an operating medium injector, in particular a reducing agent injector. The equipment injector is arranged for introducing an equipment, in particular a reducing agent, into the exhaust pipe. The electrically conductive element is arranged in particular downstream of the equipment injector. This has the advantage that the electrically conductive element can be used to check whether the operating medium, in particular the reducing agent, has been introduced without the formation of deposits.

Gemäß der Erfindung weist die Vorrichtung ferner eine Steuereinheit auf, die mit dem Betriebsmittelinjektor in Kommunikationsverbindung steht und dazu ausgebildet ist, den Betriebsmittelinjektor basierend auf der Überprüfung auf eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element befindliche Ablagerung zu steuern. Somit kann bspw. eine Dosierrate des Betriebsmittelinjektors angepasst werden.According to the invention, the device furthermore has a control unit which is in communication with the equipment injector and is designed to control the equipment injector based on the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element. Thus, for example, a metering rate of the equipment injector can be adjusted.

Der Begriff "Steuereinheit" bezieht sich auf eine Steuerelektronik, die je nach Ausbildung Steuerungsaufgaben und/oder Regelungsaufgaben übernehmen kann.The term "control unit" refers to control electronics which, depending on the training, can take on control tasks and / or regulation tasks.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsvariante ist die Steuereinheit dazu ausgebildet, eine Betriebsmitteldosierrate des Betriebsmittelinjektors zu verringern, wenn die Auswerteeinheit ein Vorhandensein einer Ablagerung bestimmt, der bestimmte Grad der Ablagerung einen vorgegebenen Grenzwert überschreitet und/oder die zeitliche Änderung der Ablagerung einen vorgegebenen Grenzwert überschreitet.In a further embodiment variant, the control unit is designed to reduce a resource dosing rate of the resource injector if the evaluation unit determines the presence of a deposit, the specific degree of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value and / or the change in the time of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value.

Alternativ oder zusätzlich ist die Steuereinheit dazu ausgebildet, den Verbrennungsmotor zur Erhöhung einer Abgastemperatur und/oder einer Abgasströmungsmenge zu steuern, wenn die Auswerteeinheit ein Vorhandensein einer Ablagerung bestimmt, der bestimmte Grad der Ablagerung einen vorgegebenen Grenzwert überschreitet und/oder die zeitliche Änderung der Ablagerung einen vorgegebenen Grenzwert überschreitet. Dies kann ein Auflösen der Ablagerung ermöglichen.Alternatively or additionally, the control unit is designed to control the internal combustion engine to increase an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow rate if the evaluation unit determines the presence of a deposit, the certain degree of the deposit exceeds a predetermined limit value and / or the change in the deposit over time exceeds the predetermined limit. This may allow the deposit to dissolve.

In einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel ist die Steuereinheit dazu ausgebildet, für einen oder eine Mehrzahl von Motorbetriebspunkten des Verbrennungsmotors eine maximale Betriebsmitteldosierrate zu bestimmen und/oder zu aktualisieren, bei der keine Ablagerung von der Auswerteeinheit bestimmt wird. So kann bspw. auf einem Motorprüfstand ein Kennfeld zur maximalen Einspritzung des Betriebsmittels ermittelt werden. Dies kann insbesondere für Reduktionsmittelinjektoren in einem SCR-System relevant sein.In a further exemplary embodiment, the control unit is designed to determine and / or update a maximum operating agent metering rate for one or a plurality of engine operating points of the internal combustion engine, in which no deposit is determined by the evaluation unit. For example, a map for maximum injection of the equipment can be determined on an engine test bench. This can be particularly relevant for reducing agent injectors in an SCR system.

Die Erfindung betrifft ferner einen Prüfstand, insbesondere einen Motorprüfstand, oder ein Kraftfahrzeug, insbesondere ein Nutzfahrzeug, mit der Vorrichtung wie hierin offenbart.The invention further relates to a test bench, in particular an engine test bench, or a motor vehicle, in particular a commercial vehicle, with the device as disclosed herein.

Die Erfindung betrifft zudem ein Verfahren zur Erfassung von Betriebsmittelablagerungen, vorzugsweise Reduktionsmittelablagerungen, in einem Abgastrakt eines Verbrennungsmotors. Das Verfahren kann das das Einleiten von Reduktionsmittel in eine Abgasleitung aufweisen. Das Verfahren weist das Messen eines elektrischen Kennwerts eines elektrisch leitfähigen Elements, das in der Abgasleitung angeordnet ist, auf. Das Verfahren weist zudem das Überprüfen auf eine Ablagerung an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element basierend auf dem elektrischen Kennwert auf und steuert den Betriebsmittelinjektor basierend auf der Überprüfung auf eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element befindliche Ablagerung mittels einer Steuereinrichtung, die mit dem Betriebsmittelinjektor in Kommunikationsverbindung steht.The invention also relates to a method for detecting operating agent deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine. The method can include introducing reducing agent into an exhaust pipe. The method comprises measuring an electrical characteristic value of an electrically conductive element which is arranged in the exhaust pipe. The method also has a check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element based on the electrical characteristic value and controls the resource injector based on the check for a deposit on the electrically conductive element by means of a control device which is in communication with the resource injector.

Wie bei der zuvor beschriebenen Vorrichtung ermöglicht die Verwendung einer automatisierten Auswertung eine Echtzeitüberprüfung auf Ablagerungen. Die Ablagerungen können in einem frühen Stadium erfasst werden. Ggf. können geeignete Gegenmaßnahmen zur Verhinderung weiterer Ablagerungen und/oder zum Verkleinern oder Auflösen der vorhandenen Ablagerungen eingeleitet werden.As with the device described above, the use of an automated evaluation enables a real-time check for deposits. The deposits can in are captured at an early stage. Possibly. Suitable countermeasures can be initiated to prevent further deposits and / or to reduce or dissolve the existing deposits.

Das Verfahren kann die Vorrichtung wie hierin offenbart verwenden.The method can use the device as disclosed herein.

Die zuvor beschriebenen bevorzugten Ausführungsformen und Merkmale der Erfindung sind beliebig miteinander kombinierbar. Weitere Einzelheiten und Vorteile der Erfindung werden im Folgenden unter Bezug auf die beigefügten Zeichnungen beschrieben. Es zeigen:

Figur 1
eine schematische Ansicht einer beispielhaften Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen;
Figur 2
ein Flussdiagramm zum Darstellen eines Verfahrens zur Kennfeldermittlung mithilfe der Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen; und
Figur 3
ein Flussdiagramm zum Darstellen eines Verfahrens für eine Fahrzeuganwendung mit der Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen.
The previously described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show it:
Figure 1
is a schematic view of an exemplary device for detecting reducing agent deposits;
Figure 2
a flowchart illustrating a method for determining the characteristic map using the device for detecting reducing agent deposits; and
Figure 3
a flowchart illustrating a method for a vehicle application with the device for detecting reducing agent deposits.

Nachfolgend wird insbesondere auf eine besonders bevorzugte Vorrichtung und ein besonders bevorzugtes Verfahren zur Erfassung von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen Bezug genommen. Fachleute werden jedoch leicht verstehen, dass die Vorrichtung und das Verfahren ebenso zur Erfassung anderer Ablagerungen, z. B. Ablagerung von anderen Betriebsmitteln (z. B. Diesel) oder Verbrennungsprodukten (beispielsweise Ruß oder Asche), anwendbar sind.In the following, reference is made in particular to a particularly preferred device and a particularly preferred method for detecting reducing agent deposits. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the apparatus and method also detect other deposits, e.g. B. Deposits of other equipment (e.g. diesel) or combustion products (e.g. soot or ash) are applicable.

Die Figur 1 zeigt eine Vorrichtung 10 zur Erfassung von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen. Die Vorrichtung 10 weist eine Abgasleitung 12, ein elektrisch leitfähiges Element 15, eine Messeinrichtung 16 und eine Auswerteeinheit 18 auf.The Figure 1 shows a device 10 for detecting reducing agent deposits. The device 10 has an exhaust pipe 12, an electrically conductive element 15, a measuring device 16 and an evaluation unit 18.

Die Abgasleitung 12 bildet einen Abschnitt eines Abgastrakts eines nicht näher dargestellten Verbrennungsmotors. Die Abgasleitung 12 kann beispielsweise stromabwärts von einer Abgassammelleitung des Verbrennungsmotors zum Führen von Abgas angeordnet sein. Die Pfeile A und B zeigen eine Strömungsrichtung durch die Abgasleitung 12.The exhaust pipe 12 forms a section of an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, not shown. The exhaust pipe 12 can be arranged, for example, downstream of an exhaust manifold of the internal combustion engine for guiding exhaust gas. Arrows A and B show a direction of flow through exhaust pipe 12.

Ein Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 ragt in die Abgasleitung 12. Der Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 ist dazu ausgebildet, ein Reduktionsmittel, zum Beispiel eine wässrige Harnstofflösung, in die Abgasleitung 12 einzuspritzen. Auf eine bekannte Weise kann das Reduktionsmittel im heißen Abgas verdampfen und mithilfe eines Katalysators Stickoxide (NOx) im Abgas reduzieren.A reducing agent injector 14 projects into the exhaust line 12. The reducing agent injector 14 is designed to inject a reducing agent, for example an aqueous urea solution, into the exhaust line 12. In a known manner, the reducing agent can Evaporate hot exhaust gas and reduce nitrogen oxides (NO x ) in the exhaust gas with the aid of a catalytic converter.

In anderen Ausführungsformen kann statt des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 ein anderer Betriebsmittelinjektor oder gar kein Injektor vorgesehen sein. Es versteht sich, dass die Vorrichtung insbesondere ohne Betriebsmittelinjektor (Reduktionsmittelinjektor) vorgesehen werden kann, wenn bspw. kein SCR-System vorhanden ist und/oder (nur) Verbrennungsproduktablagerungen erfasst werden sollen.In other embodiments, another resource injector or no injector at all can be provided instead of the reducing agent injector 14. It goes without saying that the device can be provided, in particular, without an operating medium injector (reducing agent injector) if, for example, no SCR system is present and / or (only) combustion product deposits are to be detected.

Der Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 ist über eine Reduktionsmittelpumpe (nicht dargestellt) mit einem Reduktionsmitteltank (nicht dargestellt) verbunden. Eine Steuereinheit 20 kann den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 zum Einspritzen von Reduktionsmittel ansteuern.The reducing agent injector 14 is connected to a reducing agent tank (not shown) via a reducing agent pump (not shown). A control unit 20 can control the reducing agent injector 14 for injecting reducing agent.

Das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 ist in der Abgasleitung 12 stromabwärts des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 angeordnet. Das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 ist Teil eines Stromkreises 17 mit einer Spannungsquelle 24. Das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 kann beispielsweise als ein Blech oder ein Draht ausgebildet sein.The electrically conductive element 15 is arranged in the exhaust gas line 12 downstream of the reducing agent injector 14. The electrically conductive element 15 is part of a circuit 17 with a voltage source 24. The electrically conductive element 15 can be formed, for example, as a sheet or a wire.

Das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 kann insbesondere in einem Bereich der Abgasleitung angeordnet ist, in der zusätzlich zu dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element ein Strömungswiderstand angeordnet ist. Ein Strömungswiderstand kann beispielsweise durch einen gekrümmten Abschnitt der Abgasleitung oder ein Bauteil in der Abgasleitung ausgebildet werden. Einbauten in der Abgasleitung können zum Beispiel ein Katalysator, ein Mischer oder ein Partikelfilter sein. Insbesondere in diesen Bereichen kann es zu Reduktionsmittelablagerungen kommen. Das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 kann zudem selbst als ein Strömungswiderstand, zum Beispiel in der Form eines Blechs, ausgebildet sein. In der Figur 1 sind beispielhaft zwei weitere denkbare Anordnungen für ein elektrisch leitfähiges Element mit dem Bezugszeichen "X" und "Y" angegeben.The electrically conductive element 15 can in particular be arranged in a region of the exhaust gas line in which a flow resistance is arranged in addition to the electrically conductive element. A flow resistance can be formed, for example, by a curved section of the exhaust pipe or a component in the exhaust pipe. Installations in the exhaust pipe can be, for example, a catalytic converter, a mixer or a particle filter. Reductant deposits can occur, particularly in these areas. The electrically conductive element 15 can also itself be designed as a flow resistance, for example in the form of a sheet. In the Figure 1 two further conceivable arrangements for an electrically conductive element are given by way of example with the reference symbols “X” and “Y”.

In einigen Ausführungsformen weist die Vorrichtung eine Mehrzahl von elektrisch leitfähigen Elementen auf.In some embodiments, the device has a plurality of electrically conductive elements.

Die Messeinrichtung 16 ist entsprechend ihrem Messprinzip mit dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 direkt oder indirekt über den Stromkreis 17 verbunden. Die Messeinrichtung 16 ist dazu ausgebildet, einen elektrischen Kennwert (zum Beispiel Spannung, Strom, Widerstand) des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15 zu messen. Die Messeinrichtung 16 kann als ein Widerstandsmessgerät zur Messung eines elektrischen Widerstands, als ein Spannungsmessgerät zur Messung einer elektrischen Spannung und/oder als ein Strommessgerät zur Messung eines elektrischen Stroms ausgebildet sein. Die Messeinrichtung 16 ist mit der Auswerteeinheit 18 elektronisch verbunden. Die Messeinrichtung 16 ist entsprechend ihrem Messprinzip mit dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 verbunden. In dem dargestellten Beispiel ist die Messeinrichtung 16 parallel zu dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 angeordnet, so dass bspw. eine an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 anliegende Spannung messbar ist.The measuring device 16 is connected to the electrically conductive element 15 directly or indirectly via the circuit 17 in accordance with its measuring principle. The measuring device 16 is designed to measure an electrical characteristic value (for example voltage, current, resistance) of the electrically conductive element 15. The measuring device 16 can be used as a resistance measuring device for measuring an electrical resistance, as a voltage measuring device be designed for measuring an electrical voltage and / or as a current measuring device for measuring an electrical current. The measuring device 16 is electronically connected to the evaluation unit 18. The measuring device 16 is connected to the electrically conductive element 15 in accordance with its measuring principle. In the example shown, the measuring device 16 is arranged parallel to the electrically conductive element 15, so that, for example, a voltage applied to the electrically conductive element 15 can be measured.

Die Auswerteeinheit 18 kann den von der Messeinrichtung 16 gemessenen elektrischen Kennwert empfangen und auswerten. Die Auswerteeinheit 18 kann insbesondere bestimmen, ob eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 vorliegt oder nicht. Die Bestimmung erfolgt in Abhängigkeit von dem empfangenen elektrischen Kennwert. Liegt eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 vor, so kann darauf geschlossen werden, dass in der Abgasleitung noch weitere Reduktionsmittelablagerungen vorliegen und das eingespritzte Reduktionsmittel nicht vollständig verdampft.The evaluation unit 18 can receive and evaluate the electrical characteristic value measured by the measuring device 16. The evaluation unit 18 can in particular determine whether there is a reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 or not. The determination is made as a function of the electrical characteristic value received. If there is a reductant deposit on the electrically conductive element 15, it can be concluded that there are further reductant deposits in the exhaust pipe and that the injected reductant does not evaporate completely.

Eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 bewirkt eine Abkühlung des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15, da das elektrisch leitfähige Element 15 nicht mehr vollständig von dem heißen Abgase umströmt wird. Die Abkühlung des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15 führt zu einer Veränderung der elektrischen Leitfähigkeit (des elektrischen Widerstands) des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15. Diese Veränderung kann von der Messeinrichtung 16 gemessen und von der Auswerteeinheit 18 einer Reduktionsmittelablagerung zugeordnet werden. Wenn die Ablagerung auf dem elektrischen leitfähigen Element elektrisch leitfähig ist, so ändert diese dadurch ebenso den gemessenen elektrischen Kennwert. Diese Änderung kann einer Reduktionsmittelablagerung zugeordnet werden.A reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 causes the electrically conductive element 15 to cool down, since the hot exhaust gases no longer flow around the electrically conductive element 15. The cooling of the electrically conductive element 15 leads to a change in the electrical conductivity (electrical resistance) of the electrically conductive element 15. This change can be measured by the measuring device 16 and assigned to a reducing agent deposit by the evaluation unit 18. If the deposit on the electrically conductive element is electrically conductive, this also changes the measured electrical characteristic value. This change can be assigned to a reducing agent deposit.

Es ist ebenso möglich, dass die Auswerteeinheit eine Überprüfung auf eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung basierend auf einem Vergleich zwischen einem elektrischen Kennwert des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15 und einem Referenzwert für die gegebenen Betriebsbedingungen durchführt.It is also possible for the evaluation unit to carry out a check for a reducing agent deposit based on a comparison between an electrical characteristic value of the electrically conductive element 15 and a reference value for the given operating conditions.

In einigen Ausführungsformen kann die Auswerteeinheit 18 zusätzlich einen Grad der Reduktionsmittelablagerung auf Grundlage des elektrischen Kennwerts bestimmen. Eine große Veränderung des elektrischen Kennwerts lässt auf einen höheren Grad an Reduktionsmittelablagerungen schließen. Zudem kann die Auswerteeinheit eine zeitliche Änderung insbesondere einer Größe einer Reduktionsmittelablagerung bestimmen.In some embodiments, the evaluation unit 18 can additionally determine a degree of reducing agent deposition based on the electrical characteristic value. A large change in the electrical characteristic indicates a higher level of reducing agent deposits conclude. In addition, the evaluation unit can determine a change over time, in particular of a size of a reducing agent deposit.

Wenn das Vorhandensein einer Reduktionsmittelablagerung von der Auswerteeinheit 18 erfasst wird und/oder ein Grad oder eine zeitliche Änderung der Reduktionsmittelablagerung einen Grenzwert überschreitet, so können je nach Anforderung und Anwendungsumgebung verschiedene Maßnahmen unternommen werden. Hierin sind später unter Bezugnahme auf Figur 2 und Figur 3 verschiedene Verfahren für die Anwendung auf einem Motorprüfstand (Figur 2) und in einem Fahrzeug (Figur 3) beschrieben.If the presence of a reducing agent deposit is detected by the evaluation unit 18 and / or a degree or a change in the time of the reducing agent deposit exceeds a limit value, various measures can be taken depending on the requirement and the application environment. Hereinafter referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 various procedures for use on an engine test bench ( Figure 2 ) and in a vehicle ( Figure 3 ) described.

Insbesondere kann die Steuereinheit 20, die mit der Auswerteeinheit 18 elektronisch verbunden ist, eine Reduktionsmitteldosierrate durch den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 in Abhängigkeit von der Bestimmung einer Reduktionsmittelablagerung einstellen.In particular, the control unit 20, which is electronically connected to the evaluation unit 18, can set a reducing agent dosing rate by the reducing agent injector 14 depending on the determination of a reducing agent deposit.

Vorzugsweise kann die Steuereinheit 20 eine Reduktionsmitteldosierrate durch den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 verringern, wenn eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung bestimmt wurde. Hierzu kann beispielsweise eine Öffnungshäufigkeit, ein Öffnungsgrad und/oder eine Öffnungsdauer des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 verringert werden.Preferably, the control unit 20 may reduce a reductant dosing rate through the reductant injector 14 if reductant deposition has been determined. For this purpose, for example, an opening frequency, an opening degree and / or an opening duration of the reducing agent injector 14 can be reduced.

Andererseits ist es ebenso möglich, dass die Steuereinheit 20 eine Reduktionsmitteldosierrate durch den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 erhöht, wenn keine Reduktionsmittelablagerung erfasst wurde. Eine Erhöhung der Reduktionsmitteldosierrate kann insbesondere dann sinnvoll sein, wenn ein Stickoxidsensor (nicht dargestellt) eine zu hohe Stickoxidkonzentration stromabwärts des Katalysators zur selektiven katalytischen Reduktion erfasst. Zur Erhöhung der Reduktionsmitteldosierrate kann beispielsweise eine Öffnungshäufigkeit, ein Öffnungsgrad und/oder eine Öffnungsdauer des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 erhöht werden.On the other hand, it is also possible for the control unit 20 to increase a reductant dosing rate by the reductant injector 14 if no reductant deposition has been detected. An increase in the reducing agent metering rate can be particularly useful if a nitrogen oxide sensor (not shown) detects an excessively high nitrogen oxide concentration downstream of the catalyst for selective catalytic reduction. To increase the reducing agent metering rate, for example, an opening frequency, an opening degree and / or an opening time of the reducing agent injector 14 can be increased.

Die Steuereinheit 20 kann als ein elektronisches Steuergerät in einem Kraftfahrzeug ausgebildet sein. Das Kraftfahrzeug kann insbesondere ein Nutzfahrzeug wie ein Omnibus oder ein Lastkraftwagen sein. Alternativ kann die Steuereinheit 20 beispielsweise als ein Computersystem eines Prüfstands, zum Beispiel eines Motorprüfstands, ausgebildet sein.The control unit 20 can be designed as an electronic control unit in a motor vehicle. The motor vehicle can in particular be a commercial vehicle such as a bus or a truck. Alternatively, the control unit 20 can be designed, for example, as a computer system of a test bench, for example an engine test bench.

Die Steuereinheit 20 kann ferner mit einem Schalter 22 des Stromkreises 17 elektronisch verbunden sein. Die Steuereinheit 20 kann den Schalter 22 schließen, wenn eine Überprüfung auf Reduktionsmittelablagerungen durchgeführt werden soll. Dies kann beispielsweise immer dann der Fall sein, wenn Reduktionsmittel von den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 eingespritzt wird. Der Schalter 22 kann auch dauerhaft geschlossen sein, wenn eine kontinuierliche Überprüfung auf Reduktionsmittelablagerungen durchgeführt wird.The control unit 20 can also be electronically connected to a switch 22 of the circuit 17. The control unit 20 can close the switch 22 if a check for reducing agent deposits is to be carried out. This can always be the case, for example, when reducing agent is injected from the reducing agent injector 14 becomes. The switch 22 can also be closed permanently if a continuous check for reducing agent deposits is carried out.

Die Vorrichtung 10 kann ferner einen Temperatursensor 26 aufweisen. Der Temperatursensor 26 ist zur Messung einer Temperatur eines Abgasstroms in der Abgasleitung 12 ausgebildet und angeordnet. Der Temperatursensor 26 kann teilweise in die Abgasleitung 12 ragen. Die Auswerteeinheit 18 ist mit dem Temperatursensor 26 zum Empfang von gemessenen Temperaturen verbunden. Die Auswerteeinheit 18 kann eine Überprüfung auf eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung an dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 folglich zusätzlich in Abhängigkeit von einer Abgastemperatur bestimmen. Somit kann insbesondere ein Unterschied zwischen einer elektrischen Leitfähigkeit des Elements 15 bei einer Temperatur, die der Abgastemperatur entspricht, und einer tatsächlich festgestellten elektrischen Leitfähigkeit (über den elektrischen Kennwert) untersucht werden.The device 10 can also have a temperature sensor 26. The temperature sensor 26 is designed and arranged to measure a temperature of an exhaust gas flow in the exhaust line 12. The temperature sensor 26 can partially protrude into the exhaust line 12. The evaluation unit 18 is connected to the temperature sensor 26 for receiving measured temperatures. The evaluation unit 18 can consequently additionally determine a check for a reducing agent deposit on the electrically conductive element 15 as a function of an exhaust gas temperature. Thus, in particular, a difference between an electrical conductivity of the element 15 at a temperature that corresponds to the exhaust gas temperature and an actually determined electrical conductivity (via the electrical characteristic value) can be examined.

In einigen Ausführungsformen kann die Auswerteeinheit 18 zusätzlich oder alternativ Informationen empfangen, die sich auf einen aktuellen Betriebspunkt des Verbrennungsmotors beziehen. Diese Informationen können ebenfalls zur Überprüfung auf eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung verwendet werden.In some embodiments, the evaluation unit 18 can additionally or alternatively receive information relating to a current operating point of the internal combustion engine. This information can also be used to check for reducing agent deposits.

Die Figur 2 zeigt ein beispielhaftes Verfahren zum Ermitteln eines Kennfelds, das eine maximale Reduktionsmitteldosierrate in Beziehung zu einem Motorbetriebspunkt setzt. Der Motorbetriebspunkt kann beispielsweise durch eine Last an dem Verbrennungsmotor, einen Zylinderdruck, eine Zylindertemperatur, eine Gaspedalstellung, eine Drehzahl des Verbrennungsmotors, ein Drehmoment des Verbrennungsmotors, eine Ausgangsleistung des Verbrennungsmotors, einen Kraftstoffverbrauch des Verbrennungsmotors, eine Abgastemperatur und/oder eine Abgasströmungsmenge des Verbrennungsmotors gekennzeichnet sein.The Figure 2 shows an exemplary method for determining a map that relates a maximum reducing agent metering rate in relation to an engine operating point. The engine operating point can be characterized, for example, by a load on the internal combustion engine, a cylinder pressure, a cylinder temperature, an accelerator pedal position, a rotational speed of the internal combustion engine, a torque of the internal combustion engine, an output power of the internal combustion engine, a fuel consumption of the internal combustion engine, an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow quantity of the internal combustion engine be.

Nachfolgend ist das beispielhafte Verfahren der Figur 2 unter Bezugnahme auf die Vorrichtung von Figur 1 beschrieben.The following is the exemplary method of Figure 2 with reference to the device of Figure 1 described.

In einem ersten Schritt S100 wird ein neuer Motorbetriebspunkt für den Verbrennungsmotor eingestellt. Der Verbrennungsmotor wird mit diesem neuen Motorbetriebspunkt betrieben. Für diesen Motorbetriebspunkt soll nachfolgend die maximal mögliche Reduktionsmitteldosierrate ermittelt werden.In a first step S100, a new engine operating point is set for the internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine is operated with this new engine operating point. The maximum possible reducing agent metering rate is subsequently to be determined for this engine operating point.

Im Schritt S102 wird eine Minimaldosierung des Reduktionsmittels eingestellt. Die Minimaldosierung des Reduktionsmittels kann beispielsweise durch die Konstruktion und/oder Steuerbarkeit des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 vorgegeben sein. Die Minimaldosierung wird in Form eines Steuerbefehls eingestellt, mit dem der Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 angesteuert wird.A minimum dosage of the reducing agent is set in step S102. The minimum dosage of the reducing agent can be achieved, for example, by the design and / or controllability of the reducing agent injector 14. The minimum dosage is set in the form of a control command with which the reducing agent injector 14 is activated.

Der Steuerbefehl zum Ansteuern des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 kann sich auf eine Öffnungsdauer, eine Öffnungshäufigkeit und/oder einen Öffnungsgrad des Reduktionsmittelinjektors 14 beziehen.The control command for actuating the reducing agent injector 14 can relate to an opening duration, an opening frequency and / or an opening degree of the reducing agent injector 14.

Im Schritt S104 wird ein Reduktionsmittel in die Abgasleitung 12 durch den Reduktionsmittelinjektor 14 eingeleitet. Das Reduktionsmittel wird gemäß der zuvor eingestellten Dosierung eingeleitet.In step S104, a reducing agent is introduced into the exhaust line 12 through the reducing agent injector 14. The reducing agent is introduced in accordance with the previously set dosage.

Im Schritt S106 wird von der Messeinrichtung 16 ein elektrischer Kennwert des elektrisch leitfähigen Elements 15 gemessen. Im Schritt S108 wird der elektrische Kennwert von der Auswerteeinheit 18 verarbeitet. Die Auswerteeinheit 18 überprüft auf das Vorhandensein von Reduktionsmittelablagerungen an (auf) dem elektrisch leitfähigen Element 15 basierend auf den elektrischen Kennwert.In step S106, the measuring device 16 measures an electrical characteristic value of the electrically conductive element 15. In step S108, the electrical characteristic value is processed by the evaluation unit 18. The evaluation unit 18 checks for the presence of reducing agent deposits on the electrically conductive element 15 based on the electrical characteristic value.

Im Schritt S110 wird geprüft, ob die Auswerteeinheit 18 im Schritt S118 eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung bestimmt hat. Wenn eine Reduktionsmittelablagerung bestimmt wurde, so wird mit Schritt S112 fortgefahren. Wenn keine Reduktionablagerung bestimmt wurde, so wird mit Schritt S116 fortgefahren.In step S110 it is checked whether the evaluation unit 18 has determined a reducing agent deposit in step S118. If reductant deposition has been determined, proceed to step S112. If no reduction deposit has been determined, proceed to step S116.

Im Schritt S112 kann geprüft werden, ob die bestimmte Reduktionsmittelablagerung einen Grenzwert überschreitet. Der Grenzwert kann so definiert sein, dass nur kleine bestimmte Reduktionsmittelablagerungen unbeachtlich bleiben, da diese beispielsweise aus Messungenauigkeiten usw. herrühren können. Der Grenzwert kann beispielsweise als Toleranzbereich um einen Referenzwert oder um eine prozentuale Veränderung des elektrischen Kennwerts innerhalb einer vorgegebenen Zeitdauer definiert sein.It can be checked in step S112 whether the determined reducing agent deposit exceeds a limit value. The limit value can be defined in such a way that only small, specific reductant deposits remain insignificant, since these can result, for example, from measurement inaccuracies etc. The limit value can be defined, for example, as a tolerance range around a reference value or as a percentage change in the electrical characteristic value within a predetermined period of time.

Wenn der Grenzwert überschritten wurde, so wird das zu erstellende Kennfeld im Schritt S114 aktualisiert. Insbesondere wird die derzeitige Reduktionsmitteldosierrate oder die zuvor eingestellte Reduktionsmitteldosierrate, bei der die Reduktionsablagerungen noch keinen Grenzwert überschritten haben, als die maximal mögliche Reduktionsmitteldosierrate für den eingestellten Motorbetriebspunkt aktualisiert. Das Verfahren beginnt erneut bei Schritt S100 mit der Einstellung eines neuen Motorbetriebspunkts, für den eine Maximaldosierrate festgestellt werden soll.If the limit value has been exceeded, the map to be created is updated in step S114. In particular, the current reducing agent metering rate or the previously set reducing agent metering rate, at which the reduction deposits have not yet exceeded a limit value, is updated as the maximum possible reducing agent metering rate for the set engine operating point. The method begins again in step S100 with the setting of a new engine operating point for which a maximum metering rate is to be determined.

Wenn kein Grenzwert überschritten wurde (Schritt S112) oder keine Ablagerung bestimmt wurde (Schritt S110), wird die Reduktionsmitteldosierrate im Schritt S116 erhöht. Das Verfahren beginnt erneut bei Schritt S104 mit der Einleitung des Reduktionsmittels.If no limit has been exceeded (step S112) or no deposit has been determined (step S110), the reducing agent metering rate is increased in step S116. The process begins again at step S104 with the introduction of the reducing agent.

Die Figur 4 zeigt ein Verfahren, das während des Betriebs eines Kraftfahrzeugs verwendet werden kann.FIG. 4 shows a method that can be used during the operation of a motor vehicle.

Die Schritte S200 bis S208 können im Wesentlichen wie die Schritte S104 bis S112 durchgeführt werden, sodass zur Vermeidung von Wiederholungen auf eine ausführliche Beschreibung verzichtet wird.Steps S200 to S208 can be carried out essentially like steps S104 to S112, so that a detailed description is omitted in order to avoid repetitions.

Wird im Schritt S206 keine Ablagerung bestimmt oder im Schritt S208 kein Grenzwert überschritten, so wird das Verfahren in einer weiteren Schleife mit einem Neustart bei Schritt S200 durchgeführt.If no deposit is determined in step S206 or no limit value is exceeded in step S208, the method is carried out in a further loop with a restart in step S200.

Wird im Schritt S208 ein Grenzwert überschritten, so können im Schritt S210 geeignete Gegenmaßnahmen eingeleitet werden. Zum Ablösen der Reduktionsmittelablagerungen kann bspw. eine Abgastemperatur und/oder eine Abgasströmungsmenge erhöht werden. Zusätzlich kann im Schritt S210 ein bspw. in der Steuereinheit hinterlegtes Kennfeld bezüglich der maximalen Reduktionsmitteldosierrate aktualisiert werden.If a limit value is exceeded in step S208, suitable countermeasures can be initiated in step S210. To remove the reducing agent deposits, for example, an exhaust gas temperature and / or an exhaust gas flow rate can be increased. In addition, a map, for example stored in the control unit, can be updated in step S210 with regard to the maximum reducing agent metering rate.

Im Schritt S212 kann, wenn gewünscht, eine Dosierrate angepasst werden. Zum Beispiel kann eine Dosierrate erhöht werden, wenn keine Ablagerungen festgestellt werden oder kein Grenzwert überschritten wird. Eine Dosierrate kann bspw. verringert werden, wenn ein Grenzwert für die Ablagerung überschritten wird.If desired, a dosing rate can be adjusted in step S212. For example, a dosing rate can be increased if no deposits are found or no limit value is exceeded. A dosing rate can be reduced, for example, if a limit value for the deposit is exceeded.

Die Erfindung ist nicht auf die vorstehend beschriebenen bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiele beschränkt. Insbesondere beansprucht die Erfindung auch Schutz für den Gegenstand und die Merkmale der Unteransprüche unabhängig von den in Bezug genommenen Ansprüchen.The invention is not restricted to the preferred exemplary embodiments described above. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject and the features of the subclaims independently of the claims referred to.

BezugszeichenlisteReference list

1010th
Vorrichtung zur Erfassung von ReduktionsmittelablagerungenDevice for the detection of reducing agent deposits
1212th
AbgasleitungExhaust pipe
1414
ReduktionsmittelinjektorReducing agent injector
1515
Elektrisch leitfähiges ElementElectrically conductive element
1616
MesseinrichtungMeasuring device
1717th
StromkreisCircuit
1818th
AuswerteeinheitEvaluation unit
2020
SteuereinheitControl unit
2222
Schaltercounter
2424th
SpannungsquelleVoltage source
2626
TemperatursensorTemperature sensor
A, BA, B
StrömungsrichtungFlow direction
X, YX, Y
Mögliche Positionen für elektrisch leitfähiges ElementPossible positions for electrically conductive element

Claims (13)

  1. A device (10) for detecting operating medium deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, having:
    an exhaust line (12);
    an electrically conductive element (15) which is arranged in the exhaust line (12),
    a measuring device (16) which is connected to the electrically conductive element (15) and which is designed to measure and output at least one electrical characteristic value, in particular a current, a voltage and/or a resistance, of the electrically conductive element (15);
    an evaluation unit (18) which is designed to receive the electrical characteristic value and perform a check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15) on the basis of the electrical characteristic value; and
    an operating medium injector (14), in particular a reducing agent injector (14), wherein the operating medium injector (14) is arranged for the introduction of an operating medium, in particular of a reducing agent, into the exhaust line (12), wherein the electrically conductive element (15) is in particular arranged downstream of the operating medium injector (14),
    characterized by:
    a control unit (20) which has a communication connection to the operating medium injector (14) and which is designed to control the operating medium injector (14) on the basis of the check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15).
  2. The device (10) according to Claim 1, wherein the evaluation unit (18) is designed to:
    perform a check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15) on the basis of a change in the electrical characteristic value with respect to time; and/or
    perform a check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15) on the basis of a comparison between the electrical characteristic value and a reference value, in particular a reference value for the present operating conditions.
  3. The device (10) according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein:
    the electrically conductive element (15) is a wire and/or a metal plate; and/or
    a multiplicity of electrically conductive elements (15) is provided, wherein at least one electrical characteristic value is measured for each electrically conductive element (15).
  4. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electrically conductive element (15) is a metal plate which lies in a plane which encloses an angle, preferably a perpendicular angle, with a longitudinal axis of the exhaust line (12).
  5. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (18) is designed to:
    determine a degree of the deposit; and/or
    determine a presence of the deposit; and/or
    determine a change in the deposit with respect to time.
  6. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore having:
    a temperature sensor (26) for measuring an exhaust-gas temperature, which temperature sensor is arranged in the exhaust line (12),
    wherein the evaluation unit (18) has a communication connection to the temperature sensor (26) and is designed to perform the check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15) additionally on the basis of a temperature detected by the temperature sensor (26) .
  7. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, furthermore having an electrical circuit (17) which has the electrically conductive element (15) and furthermore in particular a switch (22) for closing the electrical circuit (17) and/or a voltage source (24).
  8. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the evaluation unit (18) is furthermore designed to receive data relating to an operating point of the internal combustion engine and to perform the check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15) additionally on the basis of the data.
  9. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the measuring device (16) has:
    a current-measuring unit which is arranged for measuring a current through the electrically conductive element (15) and/or the electrical circuit (17); and/or
    a voltage-measuring unit which is arranged for measuring a voltage present across the electrically conductive element (15) and/or the electrical circuit (17); and/or
    a resistance-measuring unit which is arranged for measuring an electrical resistance of the electrically conductive element (15) and/or of the electrical circuit (17) .
  10. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (20) is designed to:
    reduce an operating medium dosing rate of the operating medium injector (14) if the evaluation unit (18) determines a presence of a deposit, the determined degree of the deposit exceeds a predefined threshold value, and/or the change in the deposit with respect to time exceeds a predefined threshold value; and/or
    control the internal combustion engine so as to increase an exhaust-gas temperature and/or an exhaust-gas flow rate if the evaluation unit (18) determines a presence of a deposit, the determined degree of the deposit exceeds a predefined threshold value and/or the change in the deposit with respect to time exceeds a predefined threshold value.
  11. The device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (20) is designed to, for one or a multiplicity of engine operating points of the internal combustion engine, determine and/or update a maximum operating medium dosing rate in the case of which no deposit is determined by the evaluation unit (18).
  12. A test stand, in particular an engine test stand, or a motor vehicle, in particular a utility vehicle, having the device (10) according to any of the preceding claims.
  13. A method for detecting operating medium deposits, preferably reducing agent deposits, in an exhaust tract of an internal combustion engine, wherein an operating medium injector (14), in particular a reducing agent injector (14), is incorporated, which is arranged for the introduction of an operating medium, in particular a reducing agent, into an exhaust line (12), wherein an electrically conductive element (15) is arranged in particular downstream of the operating medium injector (14), wherein the method comprises:
    measuring an electrical characteristic value of the electrically conductive element (15) which is arranged in the exhaust line (12);
    checking for a deposit on the electrically conductive element (15) on the basis of the electrical characteristic value; and
    controlling the operating medium injector (14), on the basis of the check for a deposit situated on the electrically conductive element (15), by means of a control unit (20) which has a communication connection to the operating medium injector (14); and optionally:
    introducing reducing agent into the exhaust line (12) .
EP18170780.3A 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems Active EP3406875B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP20176043.6A EP3719271B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102017111252.9A DE102017111252A1 (en) 2017-05-23 2017-05-23 Method for real-time detection of deposits in internal combustion engines with AGN systems

Related Child Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20176043.6A Division EP3719271B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems
EP20176043.6A Division-Into EP3719271B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3406875A1 EP3406875A1 (en) 2018-11-28
EP3406875B1 true EP3406875B1 (en) 2020-07-15

Family

ID=62116346

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP18170780.3A Active EP3406875B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems
EP20176043.6A Active EP3719271B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20176043.6A Active EP3719271B1 (en) 2017-05-23 2018-05-04 Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (2) EP3406875B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102017111252A1 (en)

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8171724B2 (en) 2007-05-02 2012-05-08 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Vehicle-based strategy for removing urea deposits from an SCR catalyst
JP2011080439A (en) * 2009-10-09 2011-04-21 Nippon Soken Inc Device for detecting abnormality of particulate filter
JP5304822B2 (en) 2010-04-28 2013-10-02 株式会社デンソー Temperature sensor
US9217349B2 (en) 2011-10-26 2015-12-22 Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha Control apparatus for internal combustion engine
JP5796777B2 (en) 2011-12-12 2015-10-21 三菱ふそうトラック・バス株式会社 Exhaust gas purification device for internal combustion engine and urea accumulation detection method
SE1350273A1 (en) 2013-03-07 2014-09-08 Scania Cv Ab Apparatus and method for selecting the maximum reducing agent dosage in an SCR system for exhaust gas purification
EP2927443A1 (en) 2014-04-02 2015-10-07 Caterpillar Inc. Apparatus and method for detecting urea deposit formation

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3719271A1 (en) 2020-10-07
EP3406875A1 (en) 2018-11-28
EP3719271B1 (en) 2021-10-27
DE102017111252A1 (en) 2018-11-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE102009033889B4 (en) Regeneration device for a particulate filter and method of operation therefor
DE10022981B4 (en) Emission Control System
DE102005001459B4 (en) Emission control system for an internal combustion engine
EP2233713B1 (en) Method for operating an SCR catalytic converter
DE102005011419A1 (en) Emission control system for an internal combustion engine
DE102018205132A1 (en) Method for operating an exhaust aftertreatment system
DE102010027984A1 (en) Method for operating exhaust system of internal combustion engine in motor vehicle, involves guiding fresh air by exhaust system, where fresh air is guided through exhaust duct during operating state of internal combustion engine
DE102016219548A1 (en) Ammonia slip detection
DE19926138A1 (en) Purifying IC engine exhaust gas comprises taking measures to increase exhaust gas temperature with introduction of event which can be canceled after combustion
WO2009074380A1 (en) Method and device for diagnosing a particle filter
EP1640588A2 (en) Method for operating an internal combustion engine, and sensor device for detecting at least one characteristic value in the engine exhaust gas
DE102013104697A1 (en) diagnostic procedures
EP2657478B1 (en) Method and device for testing the functionality of an NO oxidation catalyst
DE102014018037A1 (en) A method of determining a NOx reduction performance of a NOx reduction catalyst device disposed in an exhaust passage of an automotive internal combustion engine
DE102019114340A1 (en) THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF THE UPGRADING OF UREA DEPOSITS BY CHANGING AND VARIABLE MULTI-ZONE DIESEL EXHAUST FLUID INJECTION, USING A PHYSICAL DEGRADATION GROWTH AND DECOMPOSITION MODEL
DE102017100500A1 (en) Process for the regeneration of a particulate filter
DE102019128234A1 (en) Internal combustion engine with a control unit for coordination between measures in an exhaust system and a parameterization of the internal combustion engine
DE102021129123A1 (en) Control device for monitoring a machine
DE102016123417B4 (en) Exhaust gas purification device of an internal combustion engine
DE102016225758B4 (en) Method and device for monitoring a arranged in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine particulate filter and a secondary air system
DE102013203578A1 (en) Method for monitoring an exhaust aftertreatment system
EP3406875B1 (en) Method for real-time detection of deposits in combustion engines with agn systems
DE102016101259B4 (en) Particle number estimation system
DE102016219640A1 (en) Catalyst aging detection with minimal ammonia slip
DE102004015131B4 (en) Method for operating an internal combustion engine and device for carrying out the method

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN PUBLISHED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20190503

RBV Designated contracting states (corrected)

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: MAN TRUCK & BUS SE

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20190716

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20200220

GRAJ Information related to disapproval of communication of intention to grant by the applicant or resumption of examination proceedings by the epo deleted

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSDIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

GRAR Information related to intention to grant a patent recorded

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR71

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

INTC Intention to grant announced (deleted)
AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20200608

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 502018001884

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1291268

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200815

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: FP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201016

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201015

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201015

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201116

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201115

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 502018001884

Country of ref document: DE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20210416

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210504

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210531

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210504

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210531

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20180504

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20240527

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20240521

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20240529

Year of fee payment: 7

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 1291268

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20230504

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230504

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20230504

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20240527

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20240527

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200715

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20240524

Year of fee payment: 7