US20120110982A1 - Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor - Google Patents
Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120110982A1 US20120110982A1 US12/943,097 US94309710A US2012110982A1 US 20120110982 A1 US20120110982 A1 US 20120110982A1 US 94309710 A US94309710 A US 94309710A US 2012110982 A1 US2012110982 A1 US 2012110982A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- tube
- exhaust
- exhaust pipe
- sensor
- assembly
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000005070 sampling Methods 0.000 title description 2
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 claims description 54
- 239000003054 catalyst Substances 0.000 claims description 15
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical group [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 12
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910018487 Ni—Cr Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- VNNRSPGTAMTISX-UHFFFAOYSA-N chromium nickel Chemical compound [Cr].[Ni] VNNRSPGTAMTISX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000012512 characterization method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003197 catalytic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001026 inconel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
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
- F01N2340/00—Dimensional characteristics of the exhaust system, e.g. length, diameter or volume of the apparatus; Spatial arrangements of exhaust apparatuses
-
- 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
- F01N2470/00—Structure or shape of gas passages, pipes or tubes
- F01N2470/18—Structure or shape of gas passages, pipes or tubes the axis of inlet or outlet tubes being other than the longitudinal axis of 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
- F01N2560/00—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics
-
- 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
- F01N2560/025—Exhaust systems with means for detecting or measuring exhaust gas components or characteristics the means being an exhaust gas sensor for measuring or detecting O2, e.g. lambda sensors
Definitions
- the following relates to an exhaust system and, more particularly, relates to a sampling tube for improving exhaust gas flow to an exhaust sensor.
- Vehicle exhaust systems often include one or more sensors for detecting the characteristics of the exhaust gas flowing therein.
- exhaust systems typically include one or more oxygen sensors for detecting oxygen content flowing within the exhaust system. These sensors can provide corresponding signals to the engine control unit (ECU), and the ECU can utilize the signals for controlling operation of the engine or for other purposes.
- ECU engine control unit
- these sensors extend through an opening in the exhaust pipe and into the flow of exhaust gas.
- these sensors are often positioned adjacent the inner wall of the exhaust pipe.
- the readings from these sensors can depend on the flow conditions generally adjacent the inner wall of the pipe.
- An exhaust assembly for a vehicle includes an exhaust pipe through which an exhaust gas flows substantially in a first direction.
- the exhaust pipe includes a central region.
- the assembly also includes a sensor in fluid communication with the exhaust pipe and an elongated tube extending from a first end toward a second end and disposed at least partially within the exhaust pipe.
- the first end of the tube receives at least a portion of the sensor.
- the tube includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening.
- the inlet opening generally faces the exhaust gas flowing within the central region in the first direction so that flow of the exhaust gas in the central region substantially directly enters the inlet opening.
- the tube directs the exhaust gas within the tube toward the sensor, and the exhaust gas within the tube flows out of the tube through the outlet opening.
- an exhaust assembly for a vehicle includes an exhaust pipe through which an exhaust gas flows.
- the exhaust pipe has a central axis and an inner wall surface, and the exhaust pipe includes an opening.
- the assembly also includes a catalyst member disposed in the exhaust pipe, and an oxygen sensor that is fixed relative to the exhaust pipe. The sensor is disposed adjacent the inner wall surface of the exhaust pipe, and the oxygen sensor is disposed downstream of the catalyst member.
- the exhaust assembly also includes a tube that is hollow and that has a substantially right circular cylindrical shape, so as to include a first end, a second end, and a substantially straight tube axis.
- the tube also includes a sidewall that extends along the tube axis.
- the second end includes an end wall that closes off the second end.
- the first end is open to receive the sensor.
- the tube additionally includes an inlet opening in the sidewall adjacent the second end and an outlet opening in the sidewall adjacent the first end.
- the inlet opening and the outlet opening are disposed on opposite sides of the tube axis.
- the tube extends through the opening in the exhaust pipe such that both the tube and the sensor extend into the exhaust pipe.
- the tube is fixed to the exhaust pipe to be disposed downstream from the catalyst member.
- the tube is cantilevered within the exhaust pipe.
- the central axis of the exhaust pipe extends through the inlet opening. The tube directs flow of the exhaust gas into the inlet opening, toward the sensor, and out of the tube through the outlet opening.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle with an exhaust system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of an exhaust assembly of the vehicle of FIG. 1 with portions removed for purposes of clarity;
- FIG. 3 is a partial section view of the exhaust assembly of FIG. 2 having a tube about a sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure
- FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the tube and sensor of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial view of the exhaust assembly of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the tube of the exhaust assembly of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tube of the exhaust assembly of FIG. 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- a vehicle 10 with an exhaust assembly 12 i.e., exhaust system, etc.
- the exhaust assembly 12 can direct the flow of exhaust gas (indicated by arrows that are labeled G in FIG. 2 ) from an engine 11 of the vehicle 10 to an area outside the vehicle 10 .
- the exhaust assembly 12 can treat the exhaust gas G to thereby reduce emissions of certain substances in the exhaust gas G.
- vehicle 10 is illustrated as a passenger car, it will be appreciated that the vehicle 10 can be of any other type, such as a truck, a motorcycle, etc. Also, it will be appreciated that the engine 11 can be of any suitable type.
- the exhaust assembly 12 can generally include an exhaust manifold 16 that is in fluid communication with an exhaust pipe 18 .
- the exhaust manifold 16 can direct the flow of exhaust gases G from the combustion chambers of the engine 11 into the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the exhaust pipe 18 can be hollow and cylindrical such that the exhaust gases G can flow therethrough.
- the exhaust pipe 18 can have any suitable shape and can have any suitable cross sectional shape, such as a circular cross section. Accordingly, exhaust gases G can flow through the exhaust pipe 18 including through a central region 17 of the pipe 18 ( FIG. 3 ). As shown in FIG. 3 , a central axis X of the pipe 18 can extend through the central region 17 .
- the exhaust assembly 12 can include at least one or more catalyst members 20 (e.g., catalytic converter), which is shown in phantom in FIG. 2 and is represented schematically in FIG. 3 .
- the catalyst member 20 can be of any suitable type and can include any suitable catalyst for reducing the emission of certain substances in the exhaust gas G.
- the exhaust assembly 12 includes a sensor 22 .
- the sensor 22 can generally include a housing 21 with openings 29 formed therein.
- the sensor 22 can also include a sensing element 25 that is contained within the housing 21 .
- the sensor 22 can be a heated exhaust gas oxygen (HEGO) sensor or a universal exhaust gas oxygen (UEGO) sensor, which are commercially available, for instance, from NTK Technologies, Inc. or The Bosch Group.
- HEGO heated exhaust gas oxygen
- UEGO universal exhaust gas oxygen
- the senor 22 can extend through an opening 19 in the wall of the exhaust pipe 18 , downstream of the catalyst member 20 , toward the interior of the exhaust pipe.
- the sensor 22 can be joined (e.g., fixed relative) to the pipe 18 in a manner discussed in greater detail below.
- the sensing element 25 can be disposed within the exhaust pipe 18 , and the openings 29 allow fluid communication of the exhaust gas G within the pipe 18 to the sensing element 25 .
- the sensor 22 can be disposed adjacent an inner wall surface 26 of the exhaust pipe 18 ( FIG. 3 ). As such, the sensor 22 (and the sensing element 25 ) can be spaced apart at a distance from the central region 17 and the axis X of the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the sensor 22 can be in operative communication with a controller 23 , such as the engine control unit (ECU).
- the sensor 22 can be of any suitable type to detect the presence or characteristic of a component in the exhaust gas G, such as an oxygen sensor.
- the sensor 22 can detect the amount of oxygen within the flow of exhaust gases G in the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the sensor 22 can transmit a corresponding signal (e.g., a feedback signal) to the controller 23 , and the controller 23 can thereby utilize this signal to modify an operation of the engine 11 .
- the controller 23 can adjust the injected fuel-to-air mixture, depending on the feedback signal from the sensor 22 .
- the senor 22 can be of any suitable type other than an oxygen sensor and can detect other characteristics of the exhaust gas G without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the sensor 22 can be disposed in any suitable location within the exhaust assembly 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that the sensor 22 can provide signals relating to the exhaust gas G to any component other than an ECU, and/or the controller 23 can control components other than the engine 11 .
- the exhaust assembly 12 includes a tube 24 for directing the flow of exhaust gas G toward the sensor 22 .
- the tube 24 is be hollow and can have any cross-sectional shape and extend along a substantially straight tube axis Y. In other embodiments, the tube axis Y can be at least partially curved along the length of the tube 24 .
- the tube has a generally cylindrical configuration and extends into the exhaust pipe 18 through the opening 19 .
- the sensor 22 is received within the tube 24 , and both the sensor 22 and tube 24 can be joined (e.g., fixed relative) to the exhaust pipe 18 , downstream of the catalyst member 20 .
- the tube 24 is configured to direct the flow of exhaust gas G in the exhaust pipe 18 toward the sensor 22 such that the sensor 22 can more accurately detect the characteristics of the exhaust gases G. Accordingly, as will be discussed, the tube 24 can improve the flow of exhaust gas G to the sensor 22 for more accurate sensor gas G characterization for increasing efficiency of the engine 11 during operation.
- the tube 24 has an elongated cylindrical shape.
- the tube 24 can have a non-cylindrical shape.
- the tube 24 can have a substantially straight length along the tube axis Y ( FIGS. 3-5 ).
- the tube 24 can have any suitable shape, and it will also be appreciated that the tube 24 can have a non-linear tube axis Y.
- the tube 24 is elongated and extends from a first end 30 toward a second end 32 .
- the tube 24 includes a sidewall 34 that extends substantially straight along the tube axis Y from the first end 30 toward the second end 32 .
- the sidewall 34 can have a constant thickness along the tube axis Y, or the sidewall 34 can have a thickness that varies along the tube axis Y.
- the first end 30 of the tube is open to receive at least a portion of the sensor 22 therein.
- the second end 32 of the tube includes an end wall 35 to close that end of the tube.
- the end wall 35 can be substantially perpendicular to the tube axis Y.
- the length and other parameters of the tube 24 can be configured to suit the particular exhaust system including the configuration of the sensor 22 .
- the length L of the tube 24 can be between approximately 2 and 3 inches (e.g., approximately 2.5 inches).
- the width W of the tube 24 can be between approximately 0.25 and 1 inch (e.g., approximately 5 ⁇ 8 inches).
- the tube 24 can be made out of and/or include any suitable material.
- the tube 24 can be made of and/or include stainless steel and/or austenitic nickel-chromium-based material (e.g., INCONEL).
- the tube 24 includes an inlet opening 36 and an outlet opening 38 .
- the tube 24 includes an inlet opening 36 and an outlet opening 38 , each extending through the sidewall 34 .
- the inlet opening 36 can be disposed adjacent the second end 32
- the outlet opening 38 can be disposed adjacent the first end 30 .
- the inlet and outlet openings 36 , 38 can be disposed on opposite sides of the tube axis Y from each other.
- the inlet and outlet openings 36 , 38 can be of any suitable shape and size.
- the inlet and outlet openings 36 , 38 can be elongate ( FIG.
- the tube 24 could be a formed material/construction where the inlet and outlet openings 36 , 38 in the sidewall 34 are formed in any suitable shape during the forming process.
- the tube 24 ′ can include an inlet opening 36 ′ that is a hole through the sidewall 34 ′ and the outlet opening 38 ′ can be a notch in the sidewall 34 ′ that extends along the tube axis Y′ at the first end 30 ′.
- the tube 24 includes a bent section adjacent the second end 32 where instead of a closed second end 32 (e.g. end wall 35 of FIG. 4 ), the second end 32 is open across the tube cross section so that open second end 32 defines the inlet opening 36 for exhaust gas G to enter the tube 24 and be directed by the tube 24 toward the sensor 22 .
- a closed second end 32 e.g. end wall 35 of FIG. 4
- the exhaust assembly 12 can include a boss 40 , which is ring-shaped and that encircles the opening 19 in the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the boss 40 can include a threaded opening 42 ( FIG. 4 ).
- the sensor 22 can be threadably attached to the boss 40 via the threaded opening 42 .
- the sensor 22 can be further secured to the boss 40 via adhesives or via any suitable means.
- the tube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to the boss 40 .
- the senor 22 , the tube 24 , and the boss 40 can be assembled separate from the exhaust pipe 18 and the assembly can be fixed (e.g., welded to the exhaust pipe) in a subsequent manufacturing step.
- the boss 40 and the tube 24 can be fixed to the exhaust pipe 18
- the sensor 22 can be threadably fixed to the boss 40 in a subsequent manufacturing step.
- either one of the boss 40 or the tube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to the exhaust pipe 18 .
- both the boss 40 and the tube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to the exhaust pipe 18 .
- both the sensor 22 and the tube 24 can extend into the exhaust pipe 18 such that the tube 24 is cantilevered within the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the tube 24 can extend far enough into the exhaust pipe 18 such that the tube 24 is supported at both ends 30 , 32 by the exhaust pipe 18 , wherein the inlet opening 36 to the tube 24 is positioned in the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 so exhaust gas G from the central region 17 flows substantially directly into the inlet opening 36 .
- the tube 24 may further include deflection means (e.g., baffles, fins, etc.) within the tube 24 for directing the exhaust gas G entering the inlet opening 36 toward the sensor 22 .
- the tube axis Y can be disposed at an angle relative to the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the tube axis Y and the central axis X can be disposed relatively at an angle between approximately 80° and 90°.
- the tube axis Y can be substantially perpendicular to the central axis X of the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the tube axis Y can be disposed at other angles relative to the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 to suit a particular configuration of vehicle.
- the inlet opening 36 can face substantially upstream in the flow of exhaust gas G through the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 , and the outlet opening 38 can face substantially downstream.
- the central axis X of the exhaust pipe 18 can extend through the inlet opening 36 of the tube 24 .
- the central axis X can be coaxial with the inlet opening 36 .
- the outlet opening 38 can be disposed adjacent the sensor 22 and adjacent the inner wall surface 26 of the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the inlet opening 36 is disposed substantially in the central region of the exhaust pipe 18 so the exhaust gas G can readily flow into the inlet opening 36 , through the tube 24 along the tube axis Y, toward the sensor 22 where the sensor 22 detects the characteristics of the exhaust gas G. Thereafter, the exhaust gases G exit the tube 24 through the outlet opening 38 disposed adjacent the sensor 22 .
- the exhaust gases G may enter the tube 24 at a relatively high velocity and at a relative high-pressure where the inlet opening 36 is generally aligned with the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 , compared to exhaust gas G flow near the inner wall surface 26 .
- the exhaust gas G more readily is directed to flow into the inlet opening 36 and then directed through the tube 24 toward the sensor 22 for determining the characteristics of the gas G.
- the tube 24 is positioned and configured to direct gas flow toward the sensor 22 for a more accurate characterization of the exhaust gases G from the central region 17 of the exhaust pipe 18 .
- the sensor 22 can more accurately detect the characteristics of the exhaust gas G, thereby allowing the controller 23 to receive more accurate exhaust gas data for operation of the vehicle.
- the tube 24 and the sensor 22 can extend into the exhaust pipe 18 at any suitable location.
- the tube 24 and the sensor 22 can extend into the pipe 18 to be disposed within the pipe 18 , upstream of the catalyst member 20 .
- the tube 24 and the sensor 22 can be embedded within the catalyst member 20 .
- the second end 32 of the tube 24 extends into the pipe 18
- the first end 30 of the tube 24 extends out of the pipe 18 such that the first end 30 is disposed outside of the pipe 18 .
- the sensor 22 is received within the first end 30 of the tube 24 and remains wholly outside of the pipe 18 . Nevertheless, the tube 24 directs gas G from the central region 17 of the pipe 18 toward the sensor 22 .
- the tube 24 can include a separate outlet tube (not shown) for flow of gas G out of the tube 24 back into the pipe 18 or otherwise.
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)
- Exhaust Silencers (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The following relates to an exhaust system and, more particularly, relates to a sampling tube for improving exhaust gas flow to an exhaust sensor.
- Vehicle exhaust systems often include one or more sensors for detecting the characteristics of the exhaust gas flowing therein. For instance, exhaust systems typically include one or more oxygen sensors for detecting oxygen content flowing within the exhaust system. These sensors can provide corresponding signals to the engine control unit (ECU), and the ECU can utilize the signals for controlling operation of the engine or for other purposes.
- Typically, these sensors extend through an opening in the exhaust pipe and into the flow of exhaust gas. For instance, these sensors are often positioned adjacent the inner wall of the exhaust pipe. Thus, the readings from these sensors can depend on the flow conditions generally adjacent the inner wall of the pipe.
- An exhaust assembly for a vehicle is disclosed that includes an exhaust pipe through which an exhaust gas flows substantially in a first direction. The exhaust pipe includes a central region. The assembly also includes a sensor in fluid communication with the exhaust pipe and an elongated tube extending from a first end toward a second end and disposed at least partially within the exhaust pipe. The first end of the tube receives at least a portion of the sensor. The tube includes an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The inlet opening generally faces the exhaust gas flowing within the central region in the first direction so that flow of the exhaust gas in the central region substantially directly enters the inlet opening. The tube directs the exhaust gas within the tube toward the sensor, and the exhaust gas within the tube flows out of the tube through the outlet opening.
- Moreover, an exhaust assembly for a vehicle is disclosed. The exhaust assembly includes an exhaust pipe through which an exhaust gas flows. The exhaust pipe has a central axis and an inner wall surface, and the exhaust pipe includes an opening. The assembly also includes a catalyst member disposed in the exhaust pipe, and an oxygen sensor that is fixed relative to the exhaust pipe. The sensor is disposed adjacent the inner wall surface of the exhaust pipe, and the oxygen sensor is disposed downstream of the catalyst member. The exhaust assembly also includes a tube that is hollow and that has a substantially right circular cylindrical shape, so as to include a first end, a second end, and a substantially straight tube axis. The tube also includes a sidewall that extends along the tube axis. The second end includes an end wall that closes off the second end. The first end is open to receive the sensor. The tube additionally includes an inlet opening in the sidewall adjacent the second end and an outlet opening in the sidewall adjacent the first end. The inlet opening and the outlet opening are disposed on opposite sides of the tube axis. The tube extends through the opening in the exhaust pipe such that both the tube and the sensor extend into the exhaust pipe. The tube is fixed to the exhaust pipe to be disposed downstream from the catalyst member. The tube is cantilevered within the exhaust pipe. The central axis of the exhaust pipe extends through the inlet opening. The tube directs flow of the exhaust gas into the inlet opening, toward the sensor, and out of the tube through the outlet opening.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a vehicle with an exhaust system according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a side view of a portion of an exhaust assembly of the vehicle ofFIG. 1 with portions removed for purposes of clarity; -
FIG. 3 is a partial section view of the exhaust assembly ofFIG. 2 having a tube about a sensor in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the tube and sensor ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial view of the exhaust assembly ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the tube of the exhaust assembly ofFIG. 2 ; and -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tube of the exhaust assembly ofFIG. 2 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. - Referring initially to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , avehicle 10 with an exhaust assembly 12 (i.e., exhaust system, etc.) is illustrated schematically. Theexhaust assembly 12 can direct the flow of exhaust gas (indicated by arrows that are labeled G inFIG. 2 ) from anengine 11 of thevehicle 10 to an area outside thevehicle 10. Also, theexhaust assembly 12 can treat the exhaust gas G to thereby reduce emissions of certain substances in the exhaust gas G. - Although the
vehicle 10 is illustrated as a passenger car, it will be appreciated that thevehicle 10 can be of any other type, such as a truck, a motorcycle, etc. Also, it will be appreciated that theengine 11 can be of any suitable type. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theexhaust assembly 12 can generally include anexhaust manifold 16 that is in fluid communication with anexhaust pipe 18. Theexhaust manifold 16 can direct the flow of exhaust gases G from the combustion chambers of theengine 11 into theexhaust pipe 18. - The
exhaust pipe 18 can be hollow and cylindrical such that the exhaust gases G can flow therethrough. Theexhaust pipe 18 can have any suitable shape and can have any suitable cross sectional shape, such as a circular cross section. Accordingly, exhaust gases G can flow through theexhaust pipe 18 including through a central region 17 of the pipe 18 (FIG. 3 ). As shown inFIG. 3 , a central axis X of thepipe 18 can extend through the central region 17. - Furthermore, the
exhaust assembly 12 can include at least one or more catalyst members 20 (e.g., catalytic converter), which is shown in phantom inFIG. 2 and is represented schematically inFIG. 3 . Thecatalyst member 20 can be of any suitable type and can include any suitable catalyst for reducing the emission of certain substances in the exhaust gas G. - In addition, the
exhaust assembly 12 includes asensor 22. As shown inFIG. 4 , thesensor 22 can generally include ahousing 21 withopenings 29 formed therein. Thesensor 22 can also include asensing element 25 that is contained within thehousing 21. In some embodiments, thesensor 22 can be a heated exhaust gas oxygen (HEGO) sensor or a universal exhaust gas oxygen (UEGO) sensor, which are commercially available, for instance, from NTK Technologies, Inc. or The Bosch Group. - Moreover, the
sensor 22 can extend through anopening 19 in the wall of theexhaust pipe 18, downstream of thecatalyst member 20, toward the interior of the exhaust pipe. Thesensor 22 can be joined (e.g., fixed relative) to thepipe 18 in a manner discussed in greater detail below. Thesensing element 25 can be disposed within theexhaust pipe 18, and theopenings 29 allow fluid communication of the exhaust gas G within thepipe 18 to thesensing element 25. As shown, thesensor 22 can be disposed adjacent aninner wall surface 26 of the exhaust pipe 18 (FIG. 3 ). As such, the sensor 22 (and the sensing element 25) can be spaced apart at a distance from the central region 17 and the axis X of theexhaust pipe 18. - The
sensor 22 can be in operative communication with acontroller 23, such as the engine control unit (ECU). Thesensor 22 can be of any suitable type to detect the presence or characteristic of a component in the exhaust gas G, such as an oxygen sensor. For example, thesensor 22 can detect the amount of oxygen within the flow of exhaust gases G in theexhaust pipe 18. Thesensor 22 can transmit a corresponding signal (e.g., a feedback signal) to thecontroller 23, and thecontroller 23 can thereby utilize this signal to modify an operation of theengine 11. For instance, thecontroller 23 can adjust the injected fuel-to-air mixture, depending on the feedback signal from thesensor 22. - It will be appreciated that the
sensor 22 can be of any suitable type other than an oxygen sensor and can detect other characteristics of the exhaust gas G without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that thesensor 22 can be disposed in any suitable location within theexhaust assembly 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that thesensor 22 can provide signals relating to the exhaust gas G to any component other than an ECU, and/or thecontroller 23 can control components other than theengine 11. - Furthermore, the
exhaust assembly 12 includes atube 24 for directing the flow of exhaust gas G toward thesensor 22. Thetube 24 is be hollow and can have any cross-sectional shape and extend along a substantially straight tube axis Y. In other embodiments, the tube axis Y can be at least partially curved along the length of thetube 24. For example as shown inFIG. 4 , the tube has a generally cylindrical configuration and extends into theexhaust pipe 18 through theopening 19. Thesensor 22 is received within thetube 24, and both thesensor 22 andtube 24 can be joined (e.g., fixed relative) to theexhaust pipe 18, downstream of thecatalyst member 20. Thus, as will be discussed in greater detail below, thetube 24 is configured to direct the flow of exhaust gas G in theexhaust pipe 18 toward thesensor 22 such that thesensor 22 can more accurately detect the characteristics of the exhaust gases G. Accordingly, as will be discussed, thetube 24 can improve the flow of exhaust gas G to thesensor 22 for more accurate sensor gas G characterization for increasing efficiency of theengine 11 during operation. - Referring now to
FIGS. 2-6 , thetube 24 will be described in greater detail. As shown, thetube 24 has an elongated cylindrical shape. In other embodiments, thetube 24 can have a non-cylindrical shape. Also, thetube 24 can have a substantially straight length along the tube axis Y (FIGS. 3-5 ). However, it will be appreciated that thetube 24 can have any suitable shape, and it will also be appreciated that thetube 24 can have a non-linear tube axis Y. - As shown in
FIGS. 3-5 , thetube 24 is elongated and extends from afirst end 30 toward asecond end 32. In some embodiments, thetube 24 includes asidewall 34 that extends substantially straight along the tube axis Y from thefirst end 30 toward thesecond end 32. Thesidewall 34 can have a constant thickness along the tube axis Y, or thesidewall 34 can have a thickness that varies along the tube axis Y. Thefirst end 30 of the tube is open to receive at least a portion of thesensor 22 therein. Thesecond end 32 of the tube includes anend wall 35 to close that end of the tube. Theend wall 35 can be substantially perpendicular to the tube axis Y. - The length and other parameters of the
tube 24 can be configured to suit the particular exhaust system including the configuration of thesensor 22. In some embodiments, the length L of thetube 24 can be between approximately 2 and 3 inches (e.g., approximately 2.5 inches). Also, the width W of thetube 24 can be between approximately 0.25 and 1 inch (e.g., approximately ⅝ inches). - Moreover, the
tube 24 can be made out of and/or include any suitable material. For instance, in some embodiments, thetube 24 can be made of and/or include stainless steel and/or austenitic nickel-chromium-based material (e.g., INCONEL). - In addition, the
tube 24 includes aninlet opening 36 and anoutlet opening 38. For example and referring toFIGS. 3-5 , thetube 24 includes aninlet opening 36 and anoutlet opening 38, each extending through thesidewall 34. Theinlet opening 36 can be disposed adjacent thesecond end 32, and theoutlet opening 38 can be disposed adjacent thefirst end 30. The inlet andoutlet openings outlet openings outlet openings FIG. 5 ) and generally elliptical, each with a major axis extending substantially parallel to the tube axis Y. Furthermore, the inlet andoutlet openings tube 24 could be a formed material/construction where the inlet andoutlet openings sidewall 34 are formed in any suitable shape during the forming process. Also, as shown in the embodiments ofFIG. 7 , thetube 24′ can include aninlet opening 36′ that is a hole through thesidewall 34′ and the outlet opening 38′ can be a notch in thesidewall 34′ that extends along the tube axis Y′ at thefirst end 30′. In yet another embodiment, thetube 24 includes a bent section adjacent thesecond end 32 where instead of a closed second end 32 (e.g. end wall 35 ofFIG. 4 ), thesecond end 32 is open across the tube cross section so that opensecond end 32 defines the inlet opening 36 for exhaust gas G to enter thetube 24 and be directed by thetube 24 toward thesensor 22. - The
sensor 22 and thetube 24 can be joined to theexhaust pipe 18 in any suitable fashion. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 3-5 , theexhaust assembly 12 can include aboss 40, which is ring-shaped and that encircles theopening 19 in theexhaust pipe 18. Theboss 40 can include a threaded opening 42 (FIG. 4 ). Thesensor 22 can be threadably attached to theboss 40 via the threadedopening 42. Also, thesensor 22 can be further secured to theboss 40 via adhesives or via any suitable means. Furthermore, thetube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to theboss 40. In some embodiments, thesensor 22, thetube 24, and theboss 40 can be assembled separate from theexhaust pipe 18 and the assembly can be fixed (e.g., welded to the exhaust pipe) in a subsequent manufacturing step. In other embodiments, theboss 40 and thetube 24 can be fixed to theexhaust pipe 18, and thesensor 22 can be threadably fixed to theboss 40 in a subsequent manufacturing step. Moreover, it will be appreciated that either one of theboss 40 or thetube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to theexhaust pipe 18. Furthermore, in some embodiments, both theboss 40 and thetube 24 can be fixed (e.g., welded) to theexhaust pipe 18. - Therefore, as shown in
FIGS. 3-5 , both thesensor 22 and thetube 24 can extend into theexhaust pipe 18 such that thetube 24 is cantilevered within theexhaust pipe 18. In other embodiments, thetube 24 can extend far enough into theexhaust pipe 18 such that thetube 24 is supported at both ends 30, 32 by theexhaust pipe 18, wherein the inlet opening 36 to thetube 24 is positioned in the central region 17 of theexhaust pipe 18 so exhaust gas G from the central region 17 flows substantially directly into theinlet opening 36. Of course, in such a configuration thetube 24 may further include deflection means (e.g., baffles, fins, etc.) within thetube 24 for directing the exhaust gas G entering the inlet opening 36 toward thesensor 22. - Also, as shown, the tube axis Y can be disposed at an angle relative to the central region 17 of the
exhaust pipe 18. For instance, in some embodiments, the tube axis Y and the central axis X can be disposed relatively at an angle between approximately 80° and 90°. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tube axis Y can be substantially perpendicular to the central axis X of theexhaust pipe 18. In alternative embodiments, the tube axis Y can be disposed at other angles relative to the central region 17 of theexhaust pipe 18 to suit a particular configuration of vehicle. - In the embodiment shown, the inlet opening 36 can face substantially upstream in the flow of exhaust gas G through the central region 17 of the
exhaust pipe 18, and theoutlet opening 38 can face substantially downstream. Moreover, the central axis X of theexhaust pipe 18 can extend through the inlet opening 36 of thetube 24. In some embodiments, the central axis X can be coaxial with theinlet opening 36. In addition, theoutlet opening 38 can be disposed adjacent thesensor 22 and adjacent theinner wall surface 26 of theexhaust pipe 18. - Thus, the
inlet opening 36 is disposed substantially in the central region of theexhaust pipe 18 so the exhaust gas G can readily flow into theinlet opening 36, through thetube 24 along the tube axis Y, toward thesensor 22 where thesensor 22 detects the characteristics of the exhaust gas G. Thereafter, the exhaust gases G exit thetube 24 through the outlet opening 38 disposed adjacent thesensor 22. - It will be appreciated that the exhaust gases G may enter the
tube 24 at a relatively high velocity and at a relative high-pressure where theinlet opening 36 is generally aligned with the central region 17 of theexhaust pipe 18, compared to exhaust gas G flow near theinner wall surface 26. As such, the exhaust gas G more readily is directed to flow into theinlet opening 36 and then directed through thetube 24 toward thesensor 22 for determining the characteristics of the gas G. In some embodiments, even though thesensor 22 may not be located in an area of high gas flow within thepipe 18, thetube 24 is positioned and configured to direct gas flow toward thesensor 22 for a more accurate characterization of the exhaust gases G from the central region 17 of theexhaust pipe 18. Thus, thesensor 22 can more accurately detect the characteristics of the exhaust gas G, thereby allowing thecontroller 23 to receive more accurate exhaust gas data for operation of the vehicle. - It will be appreciated that the
tube 24 and thesensor 22 can extend into theexhaust pipe 18 at any suitable location. For instance, in some embodiments, thetube 24 and thesensor 22 can extend into thepipe 18 to be disposed within thepipe 18, upstream of thecatalyst member 20. In other embodiments, thetube 24 and thesensor 22 can be embedded within thecatalyst member 20. In still other embodiments, thesecond end 32 of thetube 24 extends into thepipe 18, and thefirst end 30 of thetube 24 extends out of thepipe 18 such that thefirst end 30 is disposed outside of thepipe 18. Also, thesensor 22 is received within thefirst end 30 of thetube 24 and remains wholly outside of thepipe 18. Nevertheless, thetube 24 directs gas G from the central region 17 of thepipe 18 toward thesensor 22. Also, in this embodiment, thetube 24 can include a separate outlet tube (not shown) for flow of gas G out of thetube 24 back into thepipe 18 or otherwise. - The above description is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the present disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/943,097 US20120110982A1 (en) | 2010-11-10 | 2010-11-10 | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
US13/739,145 US8800264B2 (en) | 2010-11-10 | 2013-01-11 | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/943,097 US20120110982A1 (en) | 2010-11-10 | 2010-11-10 | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/739,145 Continuation-In-Part US8800264B2 (en) | 2010-11-10 | 2013-01-11 | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120110982A1 true US20120110982A1 (en) | 2012-05-10 |
Family
ID=46018335
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/943,097 Abandoned US20120110982A1 (en) | 2010-11-10 | 2010-11-10 | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20120110982A1 (en) |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20130125533A1 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2013-05-23 | Raymond J. Sullivan | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
US10066535B2 (en) | 2016-11-17 | 2018-09-04 | Caterpillar Inc. | Compact design exhaust aftertreatment system with NOx sensor |
US20210183179A1 (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2021-06-17 | PlusAI Corp | System and method for anti-tampering sensor assembly |
US20220417404A1 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2022-12-29 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for sensor system against glare and control thereof |
US11650415B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-05-16 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection mechanism |
US11662231B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-05-30 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection assembly |
US11724669B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-15 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection system |
US11731584B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-22 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for anti-tampering mechanism |
US11754689B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-09-12 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for detecting sensor adjustment need |
US11772667B1 (en) | 2022-06-08 | 2023-10-03 | Plusai, Inc. | Operating a vehicle in response to detecting a faulty sensor using calibration parameters of the sensor |
Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4597850A (en) * | 1984-04-02 | 1986-07-01 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Oxygen sensor |
EP0822410A2 (en) * | 1996-07-30 | 1998-02-04 | Denso Corporation | Oxygen concentration sensor |
US6068746A (en) * | 1996-09-04 | 2000-05-30 | Denso Corporation | Oxygen sensor having a solid electrolyte applicable to an internal combustion engine |
US6340809B2 (en) * | 1998-08-03 | 2002-01-22 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor with ceramic heater |
US20070204597A1 (en) * | 2006-02-27 | 2007-09-06 | Denso Corporation | Exhaust sensor mounting structure |
US20080209984A1 (en) * | 2006-12-11 | 2008-09-04 | Denso Corporation | Supporting member for gas sensor |
US20080314748A1 (en) * | 2007-06-25 | 2008-12-25 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor |
US20090101504A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-04-23 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor |
US20090151445A1 (en) * | 2007-12-14 | 2009-06-18 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Fluid flow rate measurement apparatus |
-
2010
- 2010-11-10 US US12/943,097 patent/US20120110982A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4597850A (en) * | 1984-04-02 | 1986-07-01 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Oxygen sensor |
EP0822410A2 (en) * | 1996-07-30 | 1998-02-04 | Denso Corporation | Oxygen concentration sensor |
US6068746A (en) * | 1996-09-04 | 2000-05-30 | Denso Corporation | Oxygen sensor having a solid electrolyte applicable to an internal combustion engine |
US6340809B2 (en) * | 1998-08-03 | 2002-01-22 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor with ceramic heater |
US20070204597A1 (en) * | 2006-02-27 | 2007-09-06 | Denso Corporation | Exhaust sensor mounting structure |
US20080209984A1 (en) * | 2006-12-11 | 2008-09-04 | Denso Corporation | Supporting member for gas sensor |
US20080314748A1 (en) * | 2007-06-25 | 2008-12-25 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor |
US20090101504A1 (en) * | 2007-10-18 | 2009-04-23 | Denso Corporation | Gas sensor |
US20090151445A1 (en) * | 2007-12-14 | 2009-06-18 | Hitachi, Ltd. | Fluid flow rate measurement apparatus |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20130125533A1 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2013-05-23 | Raymond J. Sullivan | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
US8800264B2 (en) * | 2010-11-10 | 2014-08-12 | Chrysler Group Llc | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor |
US10066535B2 (en) | 2016-11-17 | 2018-09-04 | Caterpillar Inc. | Compact design exhaust aftertreatment system with NOx sensor |
US20210183179A1 (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2021-06-17 | PlusAI Corp | System and method for anti-tampering sensor assembly |
US20220417404A1 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2022-12-29 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for sensor system against glare and control thereof |
US11650415B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-05-16 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection mechanism |
US11662231B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-05-30 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection assembly |
US11722787B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-08 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for sensor system against glare and control thereof |
US11724669B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-15 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for a sensor protection system |
US11731584B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-22 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for anti-tampering mechanism |
US11738694B2 (en) * | 2019-12-16 | 2023-08-29 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for anti-tampering sensor assembly |
US11754689B2 (en) | 2019-12-16 | 2023-09-12 | Plusai, Inc. | System and method for detecting sensor adjustment need |
US11772667B1 (en) | 2022-06-08 | 2023-10-03 | Plusai, Inc. | Operating a vehicle in response to detecting a faulty sensor using calibration parameters of the sensor |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20120110982A1 (en) | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor | |
US8800264B2 (en) | Sampling tube for improved exhaust gas flow to exhaust sensor | |
US8087230B2 (en) | Exhaust system for motor vehicles | |
US8057741B2 (en) | Gas sensor assembly | |
US20130025353A1 (en) | Air Mass Flowmeter | |
JP4640458B2 (en) | Exhaust manifold | |
US7140344B2 (en) | Air cleaner | |
KR101394037B1 (en) | Exhaust gas exhaust system | |
JP2012031782A (en) | Egr pipe connection part structure for exhaust system | |
US20130133311A1 (en) | Exhaust apparatus for internal combustion engine | |
US20150020582A1 (en) | System for taking exhaust gas samples from internal combustion engines | |
WO2020208129A1 (en) | A pipe arrangement, an exhaust system and a vehicle | |
US8935914B2 (en) | Exhaust device | |
WO2014171114A1 (en) | Catalyst-equipped exhaust gas pipe structure for engine | |
CN108071469B (en) | Exhaust manifold | |
US9995720B2 (en) | Plug-in NOx sensor snorkel for reading optimization under packaging constraints | |
WO2016088588A1 (en) | Exhaust gas purification device | |
EP2947294B1 (en) | Exhaust gas purification apparatus for an internal combustion engine | |
US20220235688A1 (en) | Exhaust gas sensor assembly | |
US9869230B2 (en) | Cast mounted sub-structure for end module | |
CN108730002A (en) | Vehicle exhaust system | |
US20140208724A1 (en) | Aftertreatment system | |
JP2015500433A (en) | Pitot tube connection | |
KR102073060B1 (en) | SCR Device with Urea Bypass Tank | |
EP4112895A1 (en) | Exhaust gas treatment device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CHRYSLER GROUP LLC, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MCMACKIN, MARK E.;SULLIVAN, RAYMOND J.;LEWIS, RICHARD L.;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 20101021 TO 20101102;REEL/FRAME:025381/0986 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CITIBANK, N.A., NEW YORK Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CHRYSLER GROUP LLC;REEL/FRAME:026396/0780 Effective date: 20110524 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CITIBANK, N.A., NEW YORK Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CHRYSLER GROUP LLC;REEL/FRAME:026426/0644 Effective date: 20110524 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |