JP6746001B2 - In-vehicle fuel pump controller - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device that controls a fuel pump that supplies fuel from a fuel tank to an engine.

A fuel pump that supplies fuel to an engine of a vehicle may be abnormal due to foreign matter penetrating through a fuel filter.

In recent years, environmental vehicles such as plug-in hybrid vehicles have become widespread. In a usage pattern in which EV (Electric Vehicle) traveling of a plug-in hybrid vehicle is frequently used in an urban area, fuel consumption is significantly suppressed, and therefore there is a concern that a fuel pump abnormality may occur due to fuel deterioration.

For example, the fuel pump control device described in Patent Document 1 detects a drive current of a brushless motor that drives the fuel pump, and determines a load abnormality of the fuel pump caused by foreign matter entrapment or the like based on the detected drive current. Was.

JP, 2014-202132, A

Since the conventional fuel pump control device is configured as described above, the instantaneous drive current that occurs at the initial stage of the fuel pump abnormality due to the influence of the inductance component of the motor coil and the noise filter provided in the current detection circuit. Could not be detected. Therefore, there is a problem that it is not possible to detect the sign of the abnormality of the fuel pump.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to detect a sign of an abnormal occurrence of a fuel pump.

An on-vehicle fuel pump control device according to the present invention is a vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device for controlling a fuel pump for supplying fuel from a fuel tank to an engine, wherein one rotation angle of a multi-phase brushless motor for driving the fuel pump is set to a plurality of rotation angles. Divided into regions, a speed detection unit that detects the rotation speed of the multiphase brushless motor in each of the divided regions, and compares the rotation speed in each of the plurality of regions detected by the speed detection unit with the evaluation reference. An abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality of the fuel pump is provided.
The abnormality detection unit calculates an evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of areas, and when there is an area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, while detecting the foreign matter trapping abnormality in the area, When there is a region where the evaluation value is greater than the first threshold and is equal to or greater than the second threshold, it is determined to be a severe abnormality, and when there is no region where the evaluation value is greater than or equal to the second threshold that is greater than the first threshold. Determined to be a minor abnormality.
In addition, the abnormality detection unit calculates an evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of areas, and when there is an area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, detects the foreign matter trapping abnormality in the area. At the same time, when there are a plurality of regions whose evaluation values are equal to or higher than the first threshold value, it is determined that the abnormality is severe, while when there are not a plurality of regions where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the abnormality is mild. Determine.
In addition, the abnormality detection unit calculates an evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of areas, and an area in which the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold and less than the fourth threshold that is greater than the third threshold is In the case of a transition with time, an abnormality due to a fluid foreign substance is detected, and the abnormality is judged to be a minor abnormality, and if there is a region where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the third threshold value and equal to or higher than the fourth threshold value, the foreign matter is caught. The abnormality is detected and the abnormality is determined to be a severe abnormality.

According to the present invention, it is possible to confirm the load fluctuation at the initial stage of the abnormality occurrence of the brushless fuel pump motor based on the rotation speeds in a plurality of regions synchronized with the rotation of the rotor of the multi-phase brushless motor. The sign of can be detected.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a fuel supply system using the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an axial cross-sectional configuration of the brushless fuel pump motor in the first embodiment. It is sectional drawing which cut|disconnected the brushless fuel pump motor of FIG. 2 along the AA' line. 5 is a graph showing a U-phase terminal voltage, a U-phase induced voltage and a U-phase zero-cross signal in the first embodiment. 5 is a graph showing an example in which one rotation angle of the polyphase brushless motor is divided into first to fourth regions in the first embodiment. 7 is a graph showing velocity deviation distributions in first to fourth regions in a state where the brushless fuel pump motor of the first embodiment is in steady rotation. 7 is a graph showing velocity deviation distributions in first to fourth regions in a state where foreign matter is caught in the brushless fuel pump motor according to the first embodiment. 9 is a graph showing an example in which one rotation angle of the polyphase brushless motor is divided into first to twelfth regions in the second embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the third embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the third embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the third embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the fourth embodiment. 20 is a graph showing an example of a time variation of the velocity deviation distribution when an abnormality occurs in the fuel pump due to foreign matter biting in the fifth embodiment. 20 is a graph showing an example of a time variation of a velocity deviation distribution when an abnormality occurs in a fuel pump due to a fluid foreign substance in the fifth embodiment. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the fifth embodiment. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing a hardware configuration example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to each embodiment.

Hereinafter, in order to explain the present invention in more detail, modes for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Embodiment 1.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a fuel supply system using the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the first embodiment. The fuel supply system includes an on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1, a brushless fuel pump motor 2, and an engine control device 3. The in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 and the engine control device 3 are connected by a signal line. A control command value such as a target rotation speed is transmitted from the engine control device 3 to the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 through this signal line, and diagnostic information such as a fuel pump abnormality occurrence is transmitted from the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 to the engine control device 3. Sent. A motor cable connects between the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 and the brushless fuel pump motor 2. The motor cable is connected to the U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase stator coils of the brushless fuel pump motor 2.

The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 includes a drive circuit 10, a control unit 11, a speed detection unit 12, and an abnormality detection unit 13. Electric power for driving the brushless fuel pump motor 2 and electric power for operating the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 are supplied to the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 through a battery, a power supply cable, and a power supply circuit (not shown).

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a sectional configuration in the axial direction of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 according to the first embodiment. The brushless fuel pump motor 2 shown in FIG. 2 has a structure in which a fuel pump 2b for supplying the fuel in the fuel tank to the engine and a multi-phase brushless motor 2a for driving the fuel pump 2b are integrated. Is. The multi-phase brushless motor 2a includes a stator iron core 100, a stator coil 101, a stator coil terminal 102 to which the motor cable is connected, an iron frame 103, a rotor magnet 104, a rotor iron core 105, a rotor shaft 106, bearings 107 and 108, and a thrust. A bearing 109 is included. The fuel pump 2b includes an impeller 110, pump cases 111, 112, 113, a check valve 114, a suction port 115, and a discharge port 116.
The brushless fuel pump motor 2 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. For example, the multiphase brushless motor 2a and the fuel pump 2b may be configured separately.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 of FIG. 2 taken along the line AA′. In the first embodiment, as the multi-phase brushless motor 2a of the brushless fuel pump motor 2, a three-phase brushless motor as shown in FIG. 3 is exemplified. In the case of a three-phase brushless motor, the drive circuit 10 is composed of, for example, a three-phase inverter having six switching elements 10U1, 10U2, 10V1, 10V2, 10W1, 10W2.

The three-phase brushless motor shown in FIG. 3 includes a three-phase stator coil 101, a six-slot stator core 100, and a rotor magnet 104 magnetized to four poles. The three-phase stator core 100 includes U-phase stator cores 100U1 and 100U2, V-phase stator cores 100V1 and 100V2, and W-phase stator cores 100W1 and 100W2. The stator coil 101 includes U-phase stator coils 101U1 and 101U2, V-phase stator coils 101V1 and 101V2, and W-phase stator coils 101W1 and 101W2.

In the brushless fuel pump motor 2, the rotor shaft 106 is D-cut. In the D-cut processing portion 106a, the rotor shaft 106 and the impeller 110 are connected with a minute gap 117. Therefore, the impeller 110 is restrained in the rotation direction of the rotor shaft 106 by the D-cut processing portion 106a, and is held by the gap 117 so as to be movable in the axial direction of the rotor shaft 106. When the rotor shaft 106 rotates in the forward direction, the impeller 110 rotates together with the rotor shaft 106. The fuel passes through a fuel filter (not shown) by the rotation of the impeller 110, is sucked in from the suction port 115, and is pumped to the discharge port 116 provided in the pump case 113 via the respective flow paths of the pump cases 111, 112. .. The impeller 110 located between the pump case 111 and the pump case 112 rotates without directly contacting the pump cases 111 and 112 by the fluid film of the fuel.

In order to drive the brushless fuel pump motor 2, it is necessary to drive the drive circuit 10 of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 with an energization pattern according to the magnetic pole position of the rotor magnet 104. For that purpose, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 needs to detect the magnetic pole position of the rotor magnet 104. However, since the brushless fuel pump motor 2 is immersed in fuel in a fuel tank (not shown), it is not preferable to install a sensor for detecting the magnetic pole position of the rotor magnet 104 in the brushless fuel pump motor 2. Therefore, the brushless fuel pump motor 2 is sensorless driven based on the induced voltage generated in the stator coil 101, as described later.

FIG. 4 is a graph showing a U-phase terminal voltage, a U-phase induced voltage and a U-phase zero-cross signal in the first embodiment.
The stator coil 101 includes U-phase stator coils 101U1 and 101U2, V-phase stator coils 101V1 and 101V2, and W-phase stator coils 101W1 and 101W2 shown in FIG. The induced voltage generated in each phase is generated by the magnetic flux of the rotor magnet 104 interlinking with the U-phase stator coils 101U1 and 101U2, the V-phase stator coils 101V1 and 101V2, and the W-phase stator coils 101W1 and 101W2. As shown, it has a sinusoidal voltage waveform synchronized with the rotation of the rotor magnet 104. Since the rotor magnet 104 of the first embodiment is magnetized with four poles, two cycles of induced voltage are generated during one rotation of the rotor shaft 106.

In FIG. 4, during the period when the high-side switching element 10U1 of the drive circuit 10 is on (high-side on period) or the low-side switching element 10U2 is on (low-side on period), the U-phase terminal The induced voltage cannot be observed because the voltage is fixed at the high level or the low level. On the other hand, since the U-phase terminal voltage matches the induced voltage during the period in which the switching elements 10U1 and 10U2 are off (off period), the induced voltage is observable.

Next, operations of the speed detection unit 12 and the control unit 11 will be described.
In the first embodiment, since the induced voltage of two cycles is electrically generated in each phase per one rotation angle of the rotor shaft 106, the electrical 1/2 cycle of the zero-cross signal of each phase is 1/4 rotation of the rotor shaft 106. Corresponds to a corner. The speed detection unit 12 of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 detects the U-phase terminal voltage in the off period, that is, the U-phase induced voltage, and compares the detected U-phase induced voltage with a predetermined reference voltage to determine the zero-cross point. Detect and generate a U-phase zero-cross signal.

FIG. 5 is a graph showing an example in which one rotation angle of the polyphase brushless motor 2a, that is, one mechanical cycle is divided into first to fourth regions in the first embodiment. The speed detection unit 12 defines the electrical 1/2 cycle sandwiched by the continuous rising edge and the falling edge of the U-phase zero-cross signal as one area, and measures the time of this electrical 1/2 cycle to determine the mechanical half cycle. A rotation speed of a specific 1/4 rotation angle is calculated, and a speed signal indicating the rotation angle is generated. In the example of FIG. 5, the speed detection unit 12 divides one mechanical cycle into electrical half cycles to set first to fourth areas. The number of regions in one mechanical cycle depends on the number of phases of the stator coil 101 and the number of poles of the rotor magnet 104. The speed detection unit 12 outputs a speed signal indicating the rotation speed for each region to the abnormality detection unit 13 and the control unit 11.

The control unit 11 drives each switching element of the drive circuit 10 in a predetermined electric phase with reference to the edge position of the three-phase zero-cross signal output from the speed detection unit 12, thereby driving the three-phase stator coil 101. Controls energization switching.
Further, the control unit 11 uses the three-phase speed signals output from the speed detection unit 12 to calculate the average rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor 2a. Then, the control unit 11 calculates a speed deviation between the target rotation speed instructed by the engine control device 3 and the average rotation speed, and controls the output voltage of the drive circuit 10 so that the speed deviation gradually approaches zero.

Next, the operation of the abnormality detection unit 13 will be described.
The abnormality detection unit 13 uses the speed signal output from the speed detection unit 12 to calculate the average rotation speed for each of the first to fourth regions. The abnormality detection unit 13 receives, for example, a target rotation speed instructed from the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11, and uses this target rotation speed as an evaluation reference to determine the speed of the evaluation reference and the average rotation speed for each region. Find the deviation. Then, the abnormality detection unit 13 detects the abnormality occurrence due to the foreign matter being caught in the brushless fuel pump motor 2 based on the distribution of the speed deviations in the first to fourth regions. The abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the control unit 11 when an abnormality is detected. When the control unit 11 receives the notification of the abnormality occurrence from the abnormality detection unit 13, the control unit 11 notifies the engine control device 3 of the abnormality occurrence of the fuel pump 2b.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing velocity deviation distributions in the first to fourth regions when the brushless fuel pump motor 2 of the first embodiment is in steady rotation. The brushless fuel pump motor 2 in FIG. 6 is in a normal state in which there is no abnormality such as foreign matter biting, and a constant target rotation speed is instructed by the engine control device 3 to rotate at a constant speed. It is in a rotating state. In this state, the speed deviation between the target rotation speed and the average rotation speed for each region has a substantially uniform distribution around the zero deviation. In the graph shown in FIG. 6, when the speed deviation has a positive value, the rotation speed is slow, and when the speed deviation has a negative value, the rotation speed is fast.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing velocity deviation distributions in the first to fourth regions in the state where foreign matter is caught in the brushless fuel pump motor 2 of the first embodiment. The brushless fuel pump motor 2 in FIG. 7 is in a state in which a constant target rotation speed is instructed from the engine control device 3, and foreign matter that has entered through the suction port 115 stays in a portion corresponding to the second region and impeller It is in contact with 110. As shown in FIG. 7, the distribution of the speed deviation in this state is a non-uniform distribution in which the speed deviation of the second region in which the foreign matter stays is outstanding.

The load torque fluctuation due to foreign matter at the initial stage of occurrence of an abnormality in the brushless fuel pump motor 2 is sufficiently smaller than the torque performance of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 and therefore does not affect the operation of the engine. The abnormality detection unit 13 can detect the sign of abnormality occurrence of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 based on the velocity deviation distribution at an initial stage that does not affect the operation of the engine.

Although the first embodiment has described the abnormality detection method based on the U-phase zero-cross signal, the abnormality detection unit 13 may detect the abnormality based on the V-phase or W-phase zero-cross signal, or other than the zero-cross signal. The abnormality may be detected based on the signal synchronized with the rotation of the rotor.
Further, in the first embodiment, the brushless fuel pump motor 2 in which the stator coil 101 has three phases and the rotor magnet 104 has four poles is used, but the number of phases and the number of poles are not limited thereto. There is nothing. The abnormality detection unit 13 may detect the abnormality based on the speed deviation between the rotation speed of the region divided according to the specifications of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 and the evaluation reference.

As described above, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the first embodiment includes the speed detection unit 12 and the abnormality detection unit 13. The speed detection unit 12 divides one rotation angle of the multiphase brushless motor 2a that drives the fuel pump 2b into a plurality of regions, and detects the rotation speed of the multiphase brushless motor 2a in each of the plurality of divided regions. The abnormality detection unit 13 detects the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b by comparing the rotation speed in each of the plurality of regions detected by the speed detection unit 12 with the evaluation reference. In this way, the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 can confirm the load fluctuation at the initial stage of the abnormality occurrence of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 based on the rotation speeds in a plurality of regions synchronized with the rotor rotation of the multiphase brushless motor 2a. Therefore, it is possible to detect a sign that the fuel pump 2b is abnormal.

Embodiment 2.
The configuration of the fuel supply system using the on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 according to the second embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIGS. -The figure 3 is incorporated.

FIG. 8 is a graph showing an example in which one rotation angle of the polyphase brushless motor 2a is divided into first to twelfth regions in the second embodiment. The speed detection unit 12 detects the induced voltages of the U phase, the V phase, and the W phase, and compares the detected induced voltages of the U phase, the V phase, and the W phase with a predetermined reference voltage to determine the zero cross point. The zero-cross signals of the U phase, the V phase, and the W phase are detected and generated. The U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase zero-cross signals are out of phase by 120 degrees in electrical angle. The speed detection unit 12 calculates the exclusive OR of the zero-cross signals of the U phase, V phase, and W phase, and generates a rotation synchronization signal that is synchronized with the rotation of the rotor. The speed detection unit 12 defines the electrical 1/6 cycle sandwiched by the continuous rising edge and the falling edge of the rotation synchronization signal as one area, and mechanically measures the time of this electrical 1/6 cycle. A rotation speed of 1/12 rotation angle is calculated, and a speed signal indicating the rotation angle is generated. As described above, in the example of FIG. 8, the speed detecting unit 12 divides one cycle of the electrical angle of the three-phase brushless motor included in the brushless fuel pump motor 2 into six regions.

Here, when the number of poles of the rotor magnet 104 of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 is k, the electrical cycle per mechanical cycle in which the rotor shaft 106 makes one rotation is k/2 cycles. Therefore, the speed detection unit 12 divides one mechanical cycle into 6×k/2 areas and detects the rotation speed for each area.

As described above, the multiphase brushless motor 2a according to the second embodiment has three phases, and the speed detection unit 12 divides one electrical angle cycle of the multiphase brushless motor 2a into six regions. Accordingly, the speed detection unit 12 can easily divide the rotation speed detection region by using the U-phase, V-phase, and W-phase zero-cross signals of the three-phase brushless motor. Further, since one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor 2a is divided into a large number of regions, it is possible to improve the resolution of rotation speed detection and abnormality detection.

Embodiment 3.
In the third embodiment, an example of a method for detecting a foreign matter biting abnormality of the fuel pump 2b by the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 will be described.
Since the configuration of the fuel supply system using the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the third embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 of the first embodiment in the drawings, the configuration shown in FIG. -The figure 3 is incorporated.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the third embodiment. The on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 detects the abnormality based on the behavior of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 during the rotating operation by repeatedly performing the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9.

In step ST101, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether the engine control device 3 has instructed the control unit 11 of a target rotation speed within a predetermined range. When the target rotation speed within the predetermined range is instructed (step ST101 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST102, and the target rotation speed outside the predetermined range is instructed. In this case (step ST101 “NO”), step ST101 is repeated.

The determination in step ST101 is to determine whether or not the polyphase brushless motor 2a is in the steady rotation state.
Specifically, for example, when the abnormality detection unit 13 is in a steady state in which the fluctuation of the target rotation speed of the multiphase brushless motor 2a instructed by the engine control device 3 is within a predetermined range (step ST101 “YES”). "), it is determined that the multi-phase brushless motor 2a is in the steady rotation state, and the process proceeds to step ST102. The fluctuation of the target rotation speed is an absolute value of the speed deviation obtained by subtracting the target rotation speed at the time of executing the previous abnormality detection from the current target rotation speed, as represented by the following expression.

Change in target rotation speed = | Current target rotation speed-Previous target rotation speed |

Further, for example, when the engine speed is kept at the idling speed, that is, when the engine is in the idling state (step ST101 “YES”), the abnormality detecting unit 13 causes the multi-phase brushless motor 2a to rotate steadily. It is determined to be in the state, and the process proceeds to step ST102. At that time, the abnormality detection unit 13 receives information indicating the engine speed from the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11.
In any of the specific examples described above, the abnormality detection unit 13 can accurately perform abnormality detection in a stable state in which there is no change in the target rotation speed.

In step ST102, the abnormality detection unit 13 uses the speed signal output from the speed detection unit 12 to determine whether the rotation speed of the current region is detected. If the rotation speed of the current region is detected (step ST102 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST103, and if the rotation speed of the current region is not detected (step ST102 “NO”), step ST102. repeat.

In step ST103, the abnormality detection unit 13 uses the rotation speed of the current region of the predetermined number detected by the speed detection unit 12, that is, the rotation speed of the current region detected while the rotor shaft 106 rotates the predetermined number of times. Using, the moving average value is calculated and saved.
It should be noted that when the detected value of the rotation speed of the current region is less than the predetermined number of times at the initial stage when the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is repeatedly performed, the abnormality detection unit 13 replaces the above moving average value. The average value is calculated and stored using the detected values of the rotational speed of the current region that are less than the predetermined number of times.

In step ST104, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not the moving average value of the rotation speed has been updated in the entire area of one mechanical cycle. When the moving average value is updated in all areas (step ST104 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST105, and when there is an area in which the moving average value is not updated (step ST104 “NO”). ), and returns to step ST101.

In step ST105, the abnormality detection unit 13 compares the moving average value of the rotation speed of each area with a predetermined evaluation criterion, and calculates the evaluation value of each area. The predetermined evaluation standard is, for example, a target rotation speed instructed by the engine control device 3. The evaluation criteria will be described in detail in the sixth embodiment.

Evaluation value=|Evaluation standard−Rotation speed for each area|

In step ST106, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not there is an area whose evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value among all the areas of one mechanical cycle. The first threshold value is a value corresponding to a load change of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 that is sufficiently small so as not to affect the operation of the engine, and is set in advance in the abnormality detection unit 13. When there is at least one area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value (step ST106 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST107 and when there is no area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value (step ST106). (ST106 “NO”), and returns to step ST101.

In step ST107, the abnormality detection unit 13 detects the occurrence of the foreign matter trapping abnormality in the area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value.

In step ST108, the abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11 that an abnormality has occurred in the fuel pump 2b.

As described above, the abnormality detection unit 13 of the third embodiment calculates the evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of regions obtained by dividing one mechanical cycle, and the evaluation value becomes the first threshold value or more. When the area exists, the foreign matter biting abnormality in the area is detected. As a result, the load fluctuation caused by the foreign matter that has entered the fuel pump 2b can be detected at the initial stage of the abnormality occurrence. Further, it is possible to identify the area in which the abnormality has occurred.

In addition, the abnormality detection unit 13 of the third embodiment determines that the fuel consumption when the fluctuation of the target rotation speed of the multiphase brushless motor 2a instructed by the engine control device 3 in step ST101 is in a steady state within a predetermined range. The abnormality of the pump 2b is detected. As a result, it is possible to accurately detect abnormality in a stable state in which the target rotation speed does not fluctuate.

Further, the abnormality detection unit 13 of the third embodiment may perform the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b when the engine is idling in step ST101. Also in this case, the abnormality can be accurately detected in a stable state where the target rotation speed does not fluctuate.

Fourth Embodiment
In the fourth embodiment, an example of determining whether the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b is mild or severe will be described.
The configuration of the fuel supply system using the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the fourth embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIGS. -The figure 3 is incorporated.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. The in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 detects the abnormality based on the behavior of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 during the rotating operation by repeatedly performing the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10. The operation of steps ST101 to ST107 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 10 is the same as the operation of steps ST101 to ST107 shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step ST110, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not the degree of the evaluation value corresponds to a severe abnormality in the area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value. When the degree of the evaluation value corresponds to the severe abnormality (step ST110 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST111, and when the degree of the evaluation value does not correspond to the severe abnormality (step ST110 “NO”). , And proceeds to step ST112.

In step ST111, the abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11 of the occurrence of a serious abnormality of the fuel pump 2b.
On the other hand, in step ST112, the abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11 that a slight abnormality has occurred in the fuel pump 2b.

Next, two specific examples for determining whether the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b is mild or severe will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, in step ST120, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that there are a plurality of regions whose evaluation values are equal to or more than the first threshold value among all the regions of one mechanical cycle (step ST120 “YES”), It is determined that the abnormality is severe and the process proceeds to step ST111. On the other hand, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the abnormality is a minor abnormality when there is one or less of the regions whose evaluation values are equal to or more than the first threshold value among all the regions of one mechanical cycle (step ST120 “NO”). It proceeds to step ST112.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the operation of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, in step ST130, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not there is a region whose evaluation value is equal to or higher than the second threshold value among all regions of one mechanical cycle. The second threshold value is larger than the first threshold value and is set in advance in the abnormality detection unit 13. When there is at least one area where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the second threshold value (step ST130 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the abnormality is severe and proceeds to step ST111. On the other hand, when there is no area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the second threshold value (step ST130 “NO”), the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the abnormality is a minor abnormality and proceeds to step ST112.

As described above, the abnormality detection unit 13 of the fourth embodiment distinguishes between a severe abnormality and a mild abnormality according to the degree of the evaluation value. As a result, it is possible to distinguish between a serious abnormality that is urgent and a minor abnormality that is not urgent, so the engine control device 3 controls the vehicle appropriately for each of the severe abnormality and the mild abnormality of the fuel pump 2b. It can be performed.

More specifically, the abnormality detection unit 13 according to the fourth embodiment is configured such that, of a plurality of regions obtained by dividing one rotation angle of the multiphase brushless motor 2a, a plurality of regions having an evaluation value equal to or higher than a first threshold value are present. It is determined to be a serious abnormality. Alternatively, the abnormality detecting unit 13 determines that the abnormality is a severe abnormality when there is a region where the evaluation value is larger than the first threshold and equal to or larger than the second threshold. By these discrimination methods, it is possible to easily discriminate urgent serious abnormality and non-urgent minor abnormality with a simple method.

Embodiment 5.
In the fifth embodiment, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 detects an abnormality due to a fluid foreign matter in addition to an abnormality due to the foreign matter being caught in the fuel pump 2b.
Since the configuration of the fuel supply system using the on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 according to the fifth embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 of the first embodiment in the drawings, the configuration shown in FIG. -The figure 3 is incorporated.

FIG. 13 is a graph showing an example of a change over time in the velocity deviation distribution when an abnormality occurs in the fuel pump 2b due to foreign matter being caught in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a graph showing an example of a change over time in the velocity deviation distribution when an abnormality occurs in the fuel pump 2b due to a fluid foreign substance in the fifth embodiment. 13 and 14, t is the time when the velocity deviation distribution is detected, and n is a natural number. 13 and 14, one mechanical cycle is divided into first to twelfth regions.

In the example of FIG. 13, since the foreign matter that has entered the fuel pump 2b stays in a portion corresponding to the third region, the speed deviation of the third region will not change even if time elapses from t=0 to t=n. It remains big. On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 14, the foreign matter that has entered the fuel pump 2b flows without staying in a portion corresponding to a specific region, and therefore the speed increases with the passage of time from t=0 to t=n. Areas with large deviations change. Therefore, in the fifth embodiment, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 determines whether the area where the velocity deviation is large, that is, the area where the abnormality occurs changes with the passage of time depending on whether the foreign matter is caught in the abnormality or the fluidity. Distinguish between abnormalities due to foreign matter.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to the fifth embodiment. The on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 detects the abnormality based on the behavior of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 during the rotating operation by repeatedly performing the operation shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15. The operations of steps ST101 and ST102 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 are the same as the operations of steps ST101 and ST102 shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step ST203, the abnormality detection unit 13 stores the rotation speed of the current area detected by the speed detection unit 12.

In step ST204, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not the rotational speed has been stored in the entire area of one mechanical cycle. When the rotation speed is stored in all areas (step ST204 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST205, and when there is an area where the rotation speed is not stored (step ST204 “NO”), Return to step ST101.

In step ST205, the abnormality detection unit 13 compares the stored value of the rotation speed for each area with a predetermined evaluation criterion, and calculates the evaluation value for each area. The predetermined evaluation standard is, for example, a target rotation speed instructed by the engine control device 3.

In step ST206, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not there is a region whose evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold value among all the regions of one mechanical cycle. The third threshold value is a value corresponding to a load change of the brushless fuel pump motor 2 that is sufficiently small so as not to affect the operation of the engine, and is set in advance in the abnormality detection unit 13. When there is at least one area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold value (step ST206 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST208 and when there is no area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold value (step ST206). ST206 “NO”), and proceeds to step ST207.

When there is at least one area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold value (step ST206 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 detects the abnormality occurrence of the fuel pump 2b, and by the operation after step ST208, this It is determined whether the abnormality is due to the foreign matter being caught or the fluid foreign matter.

In step ST207, the abnormality detection unit 13 resets the past value of the evaluation value maximum area number, which will be described later, and returns to step ST101.

In step ST208, the abnormality detection unit 13 sets the current value of the number indicating the area having the maximum evaluation value among the areas having the evaluation value equal to or greater than the third threshold value in step ST206 to the maximum evaluation value area number. Save as current value.

In step ST209, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not the maximum evaluation value area number has been stored in the past, that is, whether or not there is a past value of the maximum evaluation value area number. When there is a past value of the maximum evaluation value area number (step ST209 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST211, and when there is no past value of the maximum evaluation value area number (step ST209 “NO”), a step Proceed to ST210.

In step ST210, the abnormality detection unit 13 updates the maximum evaluation value area number by storing the current value of the maximum evaluation value area number saved in step ST208 as a past value, and returns to step ST101.

In step ST211, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether or not there is a region whose evaluation value is equal to or higher than the fourth threshold value among all the regions of one mechanical cycle. The fourth threshold value is larger than the third threshold value, and is set in advance in the abnormality detection unit 13. When there is at least one area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value (step ST211 "YES"), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST215 and when there is no area where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value ( Step ST211 "NO"), and proceeds to step ST212.

In step ST212, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines whether the current value and the past value of the maximum evaluation value area number are different. When the current value and the past value of the maximum evaluation value area number are different (step ST212 “YES”), the abnormality detection unit 13 proceeds to step ST213, and when the current value and the past value of the maximum evaluation value area number are the same ( Step ST212 “NO”), and proceeds to step ST210.

In step ST213, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the fuel pump 2b is abnormal due to the fluid foreign matter. When the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b due to the fluid foreign matter occurs, the abnormality occurrence region is changed along with the operation of the fuel pump 2b, so that the fluid foreign matter as the cause of the abnormality can be discharged by the operation of the fuel pump 2b. It is highly likely. Therefore, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b caused by the fluid foreign matter is a slight abnormality.

In step ST214, the abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11 that a slight abnormality has occurred in the fuel pump 2b.

In step ST215, the abnormality detection unit 13 determines that the fuel pump 2b is abnormal due to foreign matter being caught. If there is a region where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value, an excessive increase in load due to foreign matter trapping is predicted. Therefore, the abnormality detecting unit 13 determines that the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b due to foreign matter trapping is a serious abnormality. To do.

In step ST216, the abnormality detection unit 13 notifies the engine control device 3 via the control unit 11 of the occurrence of a serious abnormality of the fuel pump 2b.

As described above, the abnormality detection unit 13 of the fifth embodiment calculates the evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of regions obtained by dividing one rotation angle of the multiphase brushless motor 2a, and the evaluation value is the first value. When the region that is equal to or larger than the three thresholds and is smaller than the fourth threshold that is larger than the third threshold changes with time, the abnormality due to the liquid foreign matter is detected and the abnormality is determined as a minor abnormality. On the other hand, if there is a region where the evaluation value is equal to or greater than the third threshold value and equal to or greater than the fourth threshold value, the abnormality detection unit 13 detects the foreign matter trapping abnormality and determines the abnormality as a serious abnormality. This makes it possible to detect a slight abnormality caused by the fluid foreign matter that has entered the fuel pump 2b and a serious abnormality caused by the foreign matter being caught in the initial stage of the abnormality occurrence. The engine control device 3 can appropriately control the vehicle for each of the serious abnormality and the minor abnormality of the fuel pump 2b.

Sixth Embodiment
In the sixth embodiment, an example of evaluation criteria used in step ST105 shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 9 to 12 and step ST205 shown in the flowchart of FIG. 15 will be described.
Since the configuration of the fuel supply system using the on-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 according to the sixth embodiment is the same as the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 of the first embodiment in the drawings, the configuration shown in FIG. -The figure 3 is incorporated.

As described in the third to fifth embodiments, the evaluation criterion is, for example, the target rotation speed of the multiphase brushless motor 2a instructed by the engine control device 3. In that case, the evaluation value calculated by comparing the evaluation standard with the rotation speed of the i-th (i is a natural number) region is expressed by the following equation. Since the abnormality detecting unit 13 detects the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b based on the target rotation speed of the brushless fuel pump motor 2, it is possible to easily detect the abnormality occurrence region and detect the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b in the initial stage. it can.

Evaluation value of i-th region=|target rotation speed−rotation speed of i-th area|

Further, the evaluation criterion may be the lowest rotation speed among the rotation speeds in each of the plurality of regions obtained by dividing one mechanical cycle. In that case, the evaluation value calculated by comparing the evaluation standard with the rotation speed of the i-th region is represented by the following equation. Since the abnormality detection unit 13 detects the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b based on the lowest rotation speed of the rotation speeds of the entire mechanical one cycle, it is affected by the target rotation speed instructed by the engine control device 3. It is possible to easily detect the abnormality occurrence region without detecting the abnormality and to detect the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b in the initial stage.

Evaluation value of i-th area=|minimum value of rotation speed in all areas−rotation speed of i-th area|

Further, the evaluation criterion may be an average rotation speed obtained by averaging the rotation speeds of all of a plurality of regions obtained by dividing one mechanical cycle. In that case, the evaluation value calculated by comparing the evaluation standard with the rotation speed of the i-th region is represented by the following equation. Since the abnormality detection unit 13 detects an abnormality of the fuel pump 2b based on the average rotation speed of the rotation speeds of the entire mechanical one cycle, it is not affected by the target rotation speed instructed by the engine control device 3. The abnormality occurrence area can be easily detected, and the abnormality of the fuel pump 2b can be detected at the initial stage.

Evaluation value of i-th region=|average value of rotation speeds in all areas−rotational speed of i-th area|

Finally, the hardware configuration of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to each embodiment will be described.
16A and 16B are diagrams showing a hardware configuration example of the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 according to each embodiment. The drive circuit 10 in the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 is, for example, a three-phase inverter. Each function of the control unit 11, the speed detection unit 12, and the abnormality detection unit 13 in the in-vehicle fuel pump control device 1 is realized by a processing circuit. That is, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 includes a processing circuit for realizing the above functions. The processing circuit may be the processing circuit 20 as dedicated hardware, or may be the processor 21 that executes a program stored in the memory 22.

As illustrated in FIG. 16A, when the processing circuit is dedicated hardware, the processing circuit 20 may be, for example, a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). , FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof. The functions of the control unit 11, the speed detection unit 12, and the abnormality detection unit 13 may be realized by a plurality of processing circuits 20, or the functions of each unit may be collectively realized by one processing circuit 20.

As shown in FIG. 16B, when the processing circuit is the processor 21, each function of the control unit 11, the speed detection unit 12, and the abnormality detection unit 13 is realized by software, firmware, or a combination of software and firmware. .. The software or firmware is described as a program and stored in the memory 22. The processor 21 realizes the function of each unit by reading and executing the program stored in the memory 22. That is, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 includes the memory 22 for storing the program that, when executed by the processor 21, results in the steps shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 and the like being executed. It can also be said that this program causes a computer to execute the procedure or method of the control unit 11, the speed detection unit 12, and the abnormality detection unit 13.

Here, the processor 21 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a processing device, a computing device, a microprocessor, a microcomputer, or the like.
The memory 22 may be a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), or a nonvolatile or volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a hard disk or a flexible disk. Magnetic disk, or an optical disk such as a CD (Compact Disc) or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc).

The functions of the control unit 11, the speed detection unit 12, and the abnormality detection unit 13 may be partially realized by dedicated hardware and partially realized by software or firmware. As described above, the processing circuit in the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device 1 can realize the above-described functions by hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof.

It should be noted that, within the scope of the invention, the present invention can freely combine the respective embodiments, modify any constituent element of each embodiment, or omit any constituent element of each embodiment.

Since the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to the present invention detects the sign of the abnormality occurrence of the fuel pump, the fuel pump control device mounted on the plug-in hybrid vehicle in which the fuel pump abnormality easily occurs due to the fuel deterioration. Suitable for use in

1 vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device, 2 brushless fuel pump motor, 2a multi-phase brushless motor, 2b fuel pump, 3 engine control device, 10 drive circuit, 10U1, 10U2, 10V1, 10V2, 10W1, 10W2 switching element, 11 control unit, 12 speed detection unit, 13 abnormality detection unit, 20 processing circuit, 21 processor, 22 memory, 100 stator core, 100U1, 100U2 U-phase stator core, 100V1, 100V2 V-phase stator core, 100W1, 100W2 W-phase stator core, 101 stator Coil, 101U1, 101U2 U-phase stator coil, 101V1, 101V2 V-phase stator coil, 101W1, 101W2 W-phase stator coil, 102 stator coil terminal, 103 iron frame, 104 rotor magnet, 105 rotor iron core, 106 rotor shaft, 106a D cut Processing part, 107, 108 bearing, 109 thrust bearing, 110 impeller, 111, 112, 113 pump case, 114 check valve, 115 suction port, 116 discharge port, 117 clearance.

Claims (9)

An on-vehicle fuel pump control device for controlling a fuel pump for supplying fuel from a fuel tank to an engine,
A speed detection unit that divides one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor that drives the fuel pump into a plurality of regions, and detects a rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor in each of the plurality of divided regions,
An abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality of the fuel pump by comparing the rotation speed in each of the plurality of regions detected by the speed detection unit with an evaluation reference,
The abnormality detection unit,
An evaluation value is calculated from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of areas, and when there is an area where the evaluation value is equal to or more than a first threshold value, while detecting the foreign matter trapping abnormality in the area,
When there is a region where the evaluation value is greater than or equal to the second threshold that is greater than the first threshold, it is determined to be a severe abnormality, and An in-vehicle fuel pump control device, characterized in that it is judged to be a minor abnormality when it does not exist. An on-vehicle fuel pump control device for controlling a fuel pump for supplying fuel from a fuel tank to an engine,
A speed detection unit that divides one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor that drives the fuel pump into a plurality of regions, and detects a rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor in each of the plurality of divided regions,
An abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality of the fuel pump by comparing the rotation speed in each of the plurality of regions detected by the speed detection unit with an evaluation reference,
The abnormality detection unit,
An evaluation value is calculated from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of areas, and when there is an area where the evaluation value is equal to or more than a first threshold value, while detecting the foreign matter trapping abnormality in the area,
While there are multiple regions where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, it is determined that the abnormality is severe, and when there are no regions where the evaluation value is equal to or higher than the first threshold value, the abnormality is mild. An in-vehicle fuel pump control device characterized by determining that there is. The number of phases of the polyphase brushless motor is three,
3. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 1, wherein the speed detection unit divides one electrical angle cycle of the polyphase brushless motor into six regions. An on-vehicle fuel pump control device for controlling a fuel pump for supplying fuel from a fuel tank to an engine,
A speed detection unit that divides one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor that drives the fuel pump into a plurality of regions, and detects a rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor in each of the plurality of divided regions,
An abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality of the fuel pump by comparing the rotation speed in each of the plurality of regions detected by the speed detection unit with an evaluation reference,
The abnormality detection unit calculates an evaluation value from the rotation speed and the evaluation reference in each of the plurality of regions, and the evaluation value is equal to or greater than a third threshold value and less than a fourth threshold value that is greater than the third threshold value. When a certain area changes with time, an abnormality due to a fluid foreign substance is detected and the abnormality is determined to be a minor abnormality, and the evaluation value is equal to or more than the third threshold value and is equal to or more than the fourth threshold value. In some cases, the vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device is characterized by detecting a foreign matter biting abnormality and determining the abnormality as a serious abnormality. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 4, wherein the evaluation criterion is a target rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor instructed by an engine control device. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 4, wherein the evaluation criterion is the lowest rotation speed among the rotation speeds in each of the plurality of regions obtained by dividing one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor. .. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 4, wherein the evaluation criterion is an average rotation speed obtained by averaging the rotation speeds of all of the plurality of regions obtained by dividing one rotation angle of the multi-phase brushless motor. The abnormality detection unit performs abnormality detection of the fuel pump when the fluctuation of the target rotation speed of the multi-phase brushless motor instructed from the engine control device is in a steady rotation state within a predetermined range. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 4, which is characterized in that. The vehicle-mounted fuel pump control device according to claim 4, wherein the abnormality detection unit performs abnormality detection of the fuel pump when the engine is in an idling state.

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