U.S. patent application number 14/443608 was filed with the patent office on 2015-10-15 for container, method and control system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Castrol Limited. The applicant listed for this patent is Andrew Philip BARNES, Peter Stuart BRETT, CASTROL LIMITED, Steven Paul GOODIER, Mark O'MALLEY. Invention is credited to Andrew Philip Barnes, Peter Stuart Brett, Steven Paul Goodier, Mark O'Malley.
Application Number | 20150292372 14/443608 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49585422 |
Filed Date | 2015-10-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150292372 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barnes; Andrew Philip ; et
al. |
October 15, 2015 |
Container, Method and Control System
Abstract
A replaceable fluid container for an engine comprising: a
reservoir for holding a fluid; a fluid coupling adapted to provide
fluidic communication between the reservoir and a fluid circulation
system of an engine; and a data provider arranged such that
positioning the container to permit fluidic communication between
the reservoir and the fluid circulation system of the engine
arranges the data provider for data communication with an engine
control device of the engine. There is also provided a method of
facilitating control of an engine and an engine control system,
apparatus and a vehicle.
Inventors: |
Barnes; Andrew Philip;
(Norfolk, GB) ; Brett; Peter Stuart; (Berkshire,
GB) ; Goodier; Steven Paul; (Oxfordshire, GB)
; O'Malley; Mark; (Suffolk, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BARNES; Andrew Philip
BRETT; Peter Stuart
GOODIER; Steven Paul
O'MALLEY; Mark
CASTROL LIMITED |
Swindon Wiltshire |
|
US
US
US
US
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Castrol Limited
Naperville
IL
|
Family ID: |
49585422 |
Appl. No.: |
14/443608 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
November 19, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2013/074209 |
371 Date: |
May 18, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
701/102 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 16/0231 20130101;
F01M 11/04 20130101; F01M 1/18 20130101; F01M 2011/0483
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F01M 11/04 20060101
F01M011/04; F01M 1/18 20060101 F01M001/18; B60R 16/023 20060101
B60R016/023 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 19, 2012 |
EP |
12193246.1 |
Feb 28, 2013 |
EP |
13157211.7 |
Claims
1. A replaceable fluid container for an engine comprising: a
reservoir for holding a fluid; a fluid coupling adapted to provide
fluidic communication between the reservoir and a fluid circulation
system of an engine; and a data provider arranged such that
positioning the container to permit fluidic communication between
the reservoir and the fluid circulation system of the engine
arranges the data provider for data communication with an engine
control device of the engine.
2. The container of claim 1 wherein the data communication
comprises one of: providing data to the engine control device; and
receiving data from the engine control device.
3. The container of claim 1 wherein the data provider is arranged
to inhibit communication with the engine control device unless the
reservoir is in fluidic communication with the fluid circulation
system of the engine.
4. The container of claim 1 wherein the data provider is configured
such that communication of data with the engine control device is
dependent upon the presence of fluidic communication between the
fluid container and a fluid circulation system of the engine.
5. The container of claim 1 wherein the fluid coupling comprises a
self-sealing coupling arranged such that connecting the
self-sealing coupling to the fluid circulation system arranges the
data provider for communicating data with the engine control
device.
6. The container of claim 1 in which the data provider is
configured to communicate with the engine control device in
response to the fluid coupling being coupled to the fluid
circulation system of the engine.
7. The container of claim 1 comprising a sensor adapted to sense at
least one property of a fluid in the reservoir of the container,
wherein the data communicated with the engine control device
comprises data based on the sensed property of the fluid.
8. The container of claim 7 in which the property of the fluid is
at least one property selected from the group consisting of: the
amount of fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid,
the viscosity of fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical
resistance of fluid, the dielectric constant of fluid, the opacity
of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid and combinations of two
or more thereof.
9. The container of claim 7 in which the data provider comprises a
memory for storing data, and in which the stored data comprises
data based upon at least one sensed property of the fluid.
10. The container of claim 9 in which the stored data comprises at
least one property of the fluid selected from the group consisting
of: the amount of fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of
fluid, the viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid,
the density of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the
dielectric constant of fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical
composition of fluid, the origin of the fluid and combinations of
two or more thereof.
11. (canceled)
12. The container of claim 9 in which the data provider is adapted
to receive data from the engine control device and to perform an
action selected from the list consisting of: storing the received
data in the memory; and providing data to the engine control device
in response to the received data.
13. A computer implemented method of facilitating control of an
engine, the method comprising: receiving, at a fluid container, a
signal indicating that the fluid container is coupled to the
engine; in response to the received signal performing an action
selected from the list comprising: providing data to an engine
control device; and, providing data to a memory at the fluid
container.
14. The computer implemented method of claim 13 wherein providing
data to a memory at the fluid container comprises storing data
obtained from the engine control device in the memory.
15. The computer implemented method of claim 13 comprising sensing
at least one property of a fluid in a reservoir of the container,
wherein the data is based on the sensed property.
16. The computer implemented method of claim 13 wherein providing
data to an engine control device comprises obtaining the data from
memory at the fluid container.
17. (canceled)
18. The container of claim 1 comprising a computer readable medium
comprising program instructions operable to program a processor to
perform a method comprising receiving, at a fluid container, a
signal indicating that the fluid container is coupled to the
engine; in response to the received signal performing an action
selected from the list comprising: providing data to an engine
control device, and providing data to a memory at the fluid
container; and a reservoir for holding a fluid.
19. The container of claim 1 and an engine control system adapted
for use with the container, wherein the engine control system is
configured to perform an action selected from the list consisting
of: controlling operation of the engine based on data obtained from
the container; and sending data to the container for storage.
20. An apparatus comprising an engine control system configured to
perform an action selected from the list consisting of: controlling
operation of the engine based on data obtained from the container
of claim 1 and sending data to the container for storage, and an
engine comprising a fluid circulation system adapted for fluidic
communication with the reservoir of the container.
21. The apparatus of claim 20 further comprising the container.
22. (canceled)
Description
[0001] This invention relates to a container, method and control
system and in particular to a fluid container for an engine, a
method of facilitating control of an engine and/or vehicle
comprising a fluid circulation system and to a control system, as
well as to an apparatus and a vehicle.
[0002] Many vehicle engines use one or more fluids for their
operation. Such fluids are often liquids. For example, internal
combustion engines use liquid lubricating oil compositions. Also,
electric engines use heat exchange liquids for example to cool the
engine, to heat the engine or to cool and heat the engine during
different operating conditions. Such fluids are generally held in
reservoirs associated with the engine.
[0003] Particular engines may be designed to operate with
particular fluids.
[0004] WO 01/53663 describes a removable and disposable oil
cartridge device linked to an internal combustion engine regulating
interface for manually filling or emptying and automatically
regulating the engine lubricating oil. WO 01/53663 describes a
continuous sensing system concerning the oil level in the engine
crankcase.
[0005] US 2007/0050095 describes an engine management system.
[0006] There remains a need for a replaceable fluid container for
an engine, for example a vehicle engine which seeks to avoid or at
least mitigate problems such as inappropriate use of components or
incorrectly fitting of components when replenishing/replacing a
fluid supply to an engine.
[0007] In an aspect of the present invention there is provided a
replaceable fluid container for an engine comprising: a reservoir
for holding a fluid; a fluid coupling adapted to provide fluidic
communication between the reservoir and a fluid circulation system
of an engine; and a data provider arranged such that positioning
the container to permit fluidic communication between the reservoir
and the fluid circulation system of the engine arranges the data
provider for data communication with an engine control device of
the engine.
[0008] This and other aspects of the disclosure enable operation of
the engine to be inhibited where a fluid container has not been
properly coupled in fluidic communication with the fluid
circulation system of an engine.
[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is also provided a computer implemented method of facilitating
control of an engine, the method comprising: receiving, at a fluid
container, a signal indicating that the fluid container is coupled
to the engine; in response to the received signal performing an
action selected from the list consisting of: providing data to an
engine control device; and, providing data to a memory at the fluid
container.
[0010] This and other aspects enable engine fluids to be easily
replaced for example by a consumer whilst reducing the risk that
consumers will use inappropriate fluids and/or enabling the use of
the container to be recorded for example at an engine control
device and/or at the container, to inform for example, subsequent
diagnostics and maintenance.
[0011] In another aspect of the present invention there is also
provided a replaceable fluid container for an engine comprising; a
reservoir for holding a fluid; at least one self-sealing coupling
adapted to connect said reservoir in fluidic communication with a
fluid circulation system of an engine and a data module adapted to
communicate data with an engine control device when the reservoir
is in fluidic communication with said fluid circulation system.
[0012] Communication of data may comprise one of: providing data to
the control device; and receiving data from the control device. The
data provider may be arranged to inhibit communication with the
control device unless the reservoir is in fluidic communication
with the fluid circulation system. The data provider may be
arranged such that positioning the container to permit fluidic
communication with the fluid circulation system also couples the
data provider in data communication with the control device. The
container may be configured so that arranging the container to
permit fluid communication enables the data provider to be
connected for communication with the engine. This connection may be
provided by the arrangement of the container but may also require
some additional further action to make the connection, such as
throwing a switch.
[0013] These and other examples of the disclosure may provide an
interlock to inhibit operation of an engine unless a selected type
of fluid container has been correctly coupled to the engine.
[0014] Arranging the container to permit fluidic communication may
comprise connecting the reservoir in fluidic communication with the
fluid circulation system via the fluid coupling. The fluid coupling
may comprise a self-sealing coupling arranged such that connecting
the self-sealing coupling to the fluid circulation system arranges
the data provider for communicating data with the control device.
The data provider may be operable to communicate by at least one
of: providing data to the control device; and receiving data from
the control device. The data provider may be configured to
communicate with the control device in response to the fluid
coupling being coupled to the fluid circulation system. The data
may comprise at least one property of the fluid in the reservoir of
the container.
[0015] The container may comprise a sensor adapted to sense at
least one property of a fluid in the reservoir of the container and
the data provided to the control device may comprise data based on
the sensed property of the fluid. The sensed property of the fluid
may be at least one property selected from the group consisting of
the amount of fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of
fluid, the viscosity of fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical
resistance of fluid, the dielectric constant of fluid, the opacity
of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid and combinations of two
or more thereof. The amount of fluid includes the absence of the
fluid. Thus, the sensor may sense that there is no fluid in the
reservoir and the data provided to the control device comprises
data based on at least one sensed property which includes the
absence of fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0016] The data provider may comprise at least one printed circuit
board (sometimes called a PCB). In some examples the PCB is adapted
to communicate with the control device through electrical contacts
on the replaceable container adapted to engage corresponding
contacts on or associated with the engine.
[0017] The data provider may comprise at least one computer
readable identifier for identifying the fluid, the identifier may
be an electronic identifier, such as a PCB, a near field RF
communicator, for example a passive or active RFID tag, or an NFC
communicator, RF stands for radio Frequency. RFID stands for Radio
Frequency IDentification. NFC stands for Near Field Communication.
The computer readable identifier may be an optical identifier, such
as a barcode, for example a two-dimensional barcode, or a colour
coded market, or optical identifier on the container. The computer
readable identifier may be provided by a shape or configuration of
the container.
[0018] The data provider may comprise at least one a memory. The
memory may store data comprising at least one property of the fluid
selected from the group consisting of: the amount of fluid, the
temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the viscosity of
fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density of fluid, the
electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric constant of fluid,
the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid, the origin
of the fluid and combinations of two or more thereof. The amount of
fluid includes the absence of the fluid.
[0019] The stored data may comprise data based upon at least one
sensed property of the fluid. The data provider may be adapted to
communicate with the control device by providing data to the
control device which data comprises at least part of the stored
data.
[0020] The data provider may be adapted to receive data from the
control device and to provide data to the control device in
response to the received data. Where the data provider comprises a
memory, the memory may be adapted to store data selected from the
group consisting of: data received from the control device; data
which comprises at least one property of a fluid in the reservoir
of the container. Data received from the control device may
comprise at least one piece of data selected from the group
consisting of an engine operating condition, a predicted service
interval and combinations thereof.
[0021] In computer implemented methods of the present disclosure,
providing data to a memory at the fluid container may comprise
storing data obtained from the control device in the memory. Where
data is provided into memory in response to a received signal, the
data may comprise data obtained from the received signal, and/or
data obtained from a further signal received from an engine control
device, and/or data obtained from a sensor at the container.
[0022] Providing data to a control device may comprise providing
data relating to the fluid container, and the data may comprise at
least one property of a fluid in a reservoir of the container. For
example, such methods may comprise sensing at least one property of
the fluid in the reservoir of the container; and providing the
sensed data to the control device. Providing data to a control
device may comprise obtaining the data from memory at the fluid
container.
[0023] The data provider may comprise a data module. The data
module may be encapsulated, and it may be provided as a single unit
however this is optional and the data module need not be
encapsulated. In addition, the term module should not be taken to
imply a single unit or element, it will be appreciated by the
skilled addressee in the context of the present disclosure that the
module may comprise a plurality of elements which may be
distributed about, or integrated within, or otherwise carried by
one or more elements of the container.
[0024] According to at least some embodiments of the present
invention, communication of data between the data module of a fluid
container and the engine control device is dependent upon the
presence of fluidic communication between the fluid container and a
fluid circulation system of the engine. According to at least some
embodiments, the data module is adapted such that data is not
communicated with the engine control device unless the reservoir is
in fluidic communication with the fluid circulation system of the
engine. This may enable a type of safety interlock to give reliable
engine contra for example based on properties of the fluid, whilst
also allowing engine fluids to be quickly and conveniently
replaced.
[0025] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
adapted to communicate data with the control device by providing
data to the control device. This may enable control of the engine
operation based upon properties of the fluid.
[0026] Thus, according to at least some embodiments the data module
is adapted to communicate data with the engine control device by
providing data to the engine control device, which data comprises
at least one property of the fluid in the reservoir of the
container.
[0027] This may enable control of the engine operation based upon
properties of the fluid. Thus in at least some embodiments,
operation of the engine is adjusted, for example by the engine
control device, in response to at least one property of the fluid
in the reservoir of the container.
[0028] According to at least some embodiments the container
comprises a sensor adapted to sense at least one property of the
fluid in the reservoir of the container and the data module is
adapted to communicate data with the engine control device by
providing data to the engine control device, which data comprises
data based on at least one sensed property of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container.
[0029] Examples of suitable properties of fluid in the reservoir of
the container which are sensed include: the amount of fluid, the
temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the viscosity of
fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid,
the dielectric of fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical
composition of fluid and combinations of two or more thereof. The
amount of fluid includes the absence of the fluid. Thus, the sensor
may sense that there is no fluid in the reservoir and the data
module is adapted to communicate data with the engine control
device by providing data to the control device, which data
comprises data based on at least one sensed property which includes
the absence of fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0030] Thus in at least sonic embodiments, operation of the engine
is adjusted for example by the engine control device, in response
to at least one sensed property of the fluid in the reservoir of
the container, for example in response to changes of at least one
sensed property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0031] According to at least some embodiments the data module
comprises a memory adapted to store data which comprises at least
one property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0032] In at least some embodiments the memory is adapted to store
at least one property of the fluid which includes: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density
of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric of
fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid, the
origin of the fluid, an identifier of the fluid in the reservoir,
the grade of the fluid, the date on which the fluid was filled or
replaced in the reservoir and combinations of two or more thereof.
The amount of fluid which is stored may include the absence of the
fluid.
[0033] According to at least some embodiments the memory is adapted
to store data which comprises at least one property of the fluid in
the reservoir which is an initial property of the fluid in the
reservoir. In at least some examples, this initial property data is
pre-programmed into the memory.
[0034] Examples of suitable initial properties of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container which are stored include: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density
of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric of
fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid, the
origin of the fluid, an identifier of the fluid in the reservoir
and combinations of two or more thereof. The amount of fluid
includes the absence of the fluid.
[0035] According to at least some embodiments the memory is adapted
to store data which comprises data based upon at least one sensed
property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0036] Examples of suitable sensed properties of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container on which stored data are based include:
the amount of fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of
fluid, the viscosity of fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical
resistance of fluid, the dielectric of fluid, the opacity of fluid,
the chemical composition of fluid and combinations of two or more
thereof. The amount of fluid includes the absence of the fluid.
[0037] According to at least some embodiments the memory is adapted
to store data which comprises both initial property data and sensed
property data. In at least some embodiments the memory is adapted
to store data which is derived (for example by the data module)
from initial property data and sensed property data, for example
the difference between an initial property data and a corresponding
sensed property data. Examples of the stored data which is stored
by the memory of the data module include: at least one property of
the fluid in the reservoir which is an initial property of the
fluid in the reservoir; at least one sensed property of the fluid
in the reservoir of the container; data which is derived from
initial property data and sensed property data, for example the
difference between an initial property data and a corresponding
sensed property data; data characteristic of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container; and combinations of two or more
thereof.
[0038] According to at least some embodiments the data module
comprises a memory adapted to store data which comprises at least
one property of the container.
[0039] According to at least some embodiments the memory is adapted
to store data which comprises at least one initial property of the
container.
[0040] In at least some embodiments the memory is adapted to store
data which includes: the date on which the fluid in reservoir was
filled or replaced, a unique identifier of the container, an
indication of whether the container is new, or has previously been
refilled or replaced, an indication of the operating duration of
the fluid and/or engine (for example, the vehicle mileage if the
engine is a vehicle engine), the number of times the container has
been refilled or reused, and the total the operating duration of
the container (for example, the vehicle mileage if the engine is a
vehicle engine).
[0041] In at least some embodiments the data module is adapted to
communicate with the control device by providing data to the
control device which data comprises at least part of the stored
data. Examples of the stored data which is provided to the control
device by the data module include: properties of the fluid in the
reservoir; initial properties of the fluid in the reservoir; sensed
properties of the fluid in the reservoir; data which is derived
from initial property data and sensed property data; data
characteristic of the fluid in the reservoir of the container; an
identifier of the fluid in the reservoir; the date on which the
fluid in reservoir was filled or replaced; a unique identifier of
the container; an indication of whether the container is new; or
has previously been refilled or replaced; an indication of the
operating duration of the fluid and/or engine (for example; the
vehicle mileage if the engine is a vehicle engine); the number of
times the container has been refilled or reused; the total the
operating duration of the container (for example, the vehicle
mileage if the engine is a vehicle engine) and combinations of two
or more thereof.
[0042] This may enable identification of a need for the fluid to be
changed.
[0043] This may also enable a service interval of the engine to be
determined and/or adjusted, for example, by the data module and/or
by the engine control device.
[0044] According to at least some embodiments the stored data
comprises an identifier of the fluid. This may enable the engine
control device to adjust operation of the engine dependent on the
type of fluid. For example, in at least some embodiments, the
control device is configured not to operate unless the provided
data indicates that the fluid in the reservoir of the container
comprises a selected type of fluid, for example suitable for the
operation of the engine. According to at least some embodiments the
engine control device is configured to operate the engine in one of
two or more modes depending upon the communicated data. For
example, if the fluid is an engine crankcase lubricating oil
composition, the engine control device is configured to operate the
engine in one of two or more modes depending upon the communicated
data, for example the type of lubricating oil composition, for
example according to the classification system xWy e.g. 5W30 etc.;
or the origin of the lubricating oil composition. This may prevent
or reduce the risk of inappropriate or counterfeit fluid being
used. In some examples the engine control device is configured to
operate the engine according to the quality or type of the fluid,
the condition of the fluid, the temperature of the fluid, the age
of the fluid (including whether it has been used previously), that
the correct container has been fitted, whether the container
requires replacement.
[0045] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
adapted to communicate with the control device by receiving data
from the control device.
[0046] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
adapted to receive data from the control device and to provide data
to the control device in response to the received data. According
to some such embodiments, the data module comprises a memory
adapted to store data which comprises at least one piece of data
received from the control device. Suitably, data received from the
engine control device comprises at least one piece of data selected
from the group consisting of engine operating conditions, predicted
service interval and combinations thereof.
[0047] According to at least some embodiments the data module is
configured to provide data to the control device in response to
data in the form of a signal indicating that the fluid reservoir is
fluidic, communication with the fluid circulation system.
[0048] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
also configured to receive a request signal from the engine control
device, for example during operation of the engine, and to provide
data to the engine control device in response to the received
signal.
[0049] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
configured to provide data to the control device at periodic or
aperiodic intervals. According to at least some embodiments the
data module is configured to provide data to the control device
continuously, for example whilst the engine is operating.
[0050] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
configured to provide data based on at least one sensed property of
the fluid in the reservoir of the container, to the engine control
device in the event that a sensor senses that a property of the
fluid in the reservoir of the container has one of a selected
number of values, e.g. if a sensed property exceeds a selected
range. This may enable the control device to adjust or stop
operation of the engine in response to changes in the sensed
property of the fluid.
[0051] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided computer implemented method of facilitating control of
an engine comprising a fluid circulation system in combination with
a container as hereindescribed in which the reservoir of the
container is in fluidic communication with the engine fluid
circulation system and contains fluid for the engine fluid
circulation system, which method comprises providing data from the
data provider of the container to the engine control device.
[0052] According to at least some embodiments the method further
comprises controlling the operation of the engine.
[0053] According to at least some embodiments, the data provided to
the control device comprises at least one property of the fluid in
the reservoir of the container. According to at least some
embodiments: the container comprises a sensor adapted to sense at
least one property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container;
the method comprises sensing at least one property of the fluid in
the reservoir of the container with the sensor; and the method
comprises providing data from the data module of the container to
the control device, which data comprises data based on the sensed
property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0054] Examples of suitable properties of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container which are sensed include: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical resistance
of fluid, the dielectric of fluid, the opacity of fluid, the
chemical composition of fluid and combinations of two or more
thereof. The amount of fluid includes the absence of the fluid.
[0055] According to at least some embodiments: the data module
comprises a memory; the method comprises storing data in the
memory, which data comprises at least one property of the fluid in
the reservoir of the container; and the method comprises providing
data from the data module to the engine control device, which data
comprises at least part of the stored data.
[0056] Examples of suitable properties of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container which are stored include: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density
of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric of
fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid, the
origin of the fluid, an identifier of the fluid in the reservoir,
the grade of the fluid, the date on which the fluid was filled or
replaced in the reservoir and combinations of two or more thereof.
The amount of fluid includes the absence of the fluid.
[0057] In at least some embodiments the memory stores data
including: the date on which the fluid was filled or replaced, a
unique identifier of the container, an indication of whether the
container is new, or has previously been refilled or replaced, an
indication of the operating duration of the fluid and/or engine
(for example, the vehicle mileage if the engine is a vehicle
engine), the number of times the container has been refilled or
reused, and the total the operating duration of the container (for
example, the vehicle mileage if the engine is a vehicle
engine).
[0058] According to at least some embodiments an initial property
of the fluid in the reservoir is stored in the memory. In at least
some examples, this initial property data is pre-programmed into
the memory. Examples of suitable initial properties of the fluid in
the reservoir of the container which are stored include: the amount
of fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density
of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric of
fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition of fluid, the
origin of the fluid, an identifier of the fluid in the reservoir
and combinations of two or more thereof. The amount of fluid
includes the absence of the fluid.
[0059] According to at least some embodiments data that is stored
in the memory comprises data based upon at least one sensed
property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container.
[0060] According to at least some embodiments data is stored in the
memory which comprises both initial property data and sensed
property data. In at least some embodiments data is stored in the
memory which is derived (for example by the data module) from
initial property data and sensed property data, for example the
difference between an initial property data and a corresponding
sensed property data. Examples of the stored data which is stored
by the memory of the data module include: at least one property of
the fluid in the reservoir which is an initial property of the
fluid in the reservoir; at least one sensed property of the fluid
in the reservoir of the container; data which is derived from
initial property data and sensed property data, for example the
difference between an initial property data and a corresponding
sensed property data; data characteristic of; and combinations of
two or more thereof.
[0061] In at least some embodiments, the data module communicates
with the control device by providing data to the control device
which data comprises at least part of the stored data. Examples of
the stored data which is provided to the control device by the data
module include: properties of the fluid in the reservoir; initial
properties of the fluid in the reservoir; sensed properties of the
fluid in the reservoir; data which is derived from initial property
data and sensed property data; data characteristic of the fluid in
the reservoir of the container; an identifier of the fluid in the
reservoir; the date on which the fluid in reservoir was filled or
replaced; a unique identifier of the container; an indication of
whether the container is new; or has previously been refilled or
replaced; an indication of the operating duration of the fluid
and/or engine (for example; the vehicle mileage if the engine is a
vehicle engine); the number of times the container has been
refilled or reused; the total the operating duration of the
container (for example, the vehicle mileage if the engine is a
vehicle engine) and combinations of two or more thereof.
[0062] This may enable a need for the fluid to be changed to be
identified.
[0063] This may also enable a service interval of the engine to be
determined and/or adjusted, for example, by the data module and/or
by the engine control device.
[0064] Thus, according to at least some embodiments, a service
interval of the engine is determined and/or is adjusted in response
to the data provided by the data module to the engine control
device. According to at least some embodiments, the service
interval is determined and/or adjusted by the data module and/or by
the control device. Examples of suitable data provided by the data
module to the control device include: at least one property of the
fluid in the reservoir of the container; data based on at least one
sensed property of the fluid in the reservoir of the container;
stored data; initial properties of the fluid in the reservoir;
sensed properties of the fluid in the reservoir; data which is
derived from initial property data and sensed property data; the
origin of the fluid; an identifier of the fluid in the reservoir;
and combinations of two or more thereof.
[0065] Thus, according to at least some embodiments, the stored
data comprises an identifier of the fluid which is stored in the
memory. This may enable the engine control device to adjust
operation of the engine dependent on the type of fluid. For
example, in at least some embodiments, the control device does not
operate unless the provided data indicates that the fluid in the
reservoir of the container comprises a selected type of fluid, for
example suitable for the operation of the engine. According to at
least some embodiments the control device operates the engine in
one of two or more modes depending upon the communicated data. For
example, if the fluids is an engine crankcase lubricating oil
composition, the control device operates the engine in one of two
or more modes depending upon the communicated data, for example the
type of lubricating oil composition, for example according to the
classification system xWy e.g. 5W30 etc.
[0066] According to at least some embodiments: the data module is
adapted to communicate with the control device by receiving data
from, and providing data to, the control device; and the method
comprises receiving data from the control device with the data
module and providing data from the data module to the control
device in response to the received data. Suitably, data received
from the control device comprises at least one piece of data
selected from the group consisting of engine operating conditions,
predicted service interval and combinations thereof.
[0067] In at least some embodiments the data received by the data
module is used by the data module to performed some of the data
manipulation and/or storage which might otherwise be performed by
the engine control device, for example calculating servicing
intervals. In at least some examples the data received by the data
module is used by the data module to control flow of fluid to
and/or from the reservoir, for example if the engine requires the
fluid flow to cease because the container/reservoir is to be
disconnected from the fluid circulation system.
[0068] According to at least some embodiments: the data module is
configured to provide data to the engine control device in response
to data in the form of a signal indicating that the fluid reservoir
is fluidic communication with the fluid circulation system of the
engine and the method comprises providing data from the engine
control device to the data module in the form of a signal
indicating that the fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication
with the fluid circulation system of the engine, and providing data
from the from the data module to the engine control device.
[0069] According to at least some embodiments, in the method, the
data module provides data to the engine control device at periodic
intervals. According to at least some embodiments, in the method,
the data module provides data to the engine control device at
aperiodic intervals. According to at least some embodiments, in the
method, the data module provides data to the engine control device
continuously.
[0070] According to at least some embodiments, the data module is
configured to provide data based on at least one sensed property of
the fluid in the reservoir of the container, to the engine control
device in the event that a sensor senses that a property of the
fluid in the reservoir of the container has one of a selected
number of values, e.g. if a property exceeds a selected range.
According to at least some embodiments the method further comprises
the engine control device adjusting or stopping operation of the
engine in response to changes in at least some of the sensed
data.
[0071] Examples of suitable properties of the fluid in the
reservoir of the container which are sensed include: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the density of fluid, the electrical resistance
of fluid, the dielectric of fluid, the opacity of fluid, the
chemical composition of fluid and combinations of two or more
thereof. The amount of fluid includes the absence of the fluid.
[0072] According to at least some embodiments the method further
comprises the engine control device adjusting or stopping operation
of the engine in response to changes in at least some of the data
provided by the data module to the engine control device.
[0073] In at least some embodiments, the engine control device
controls the engine in response to data provided by the data module
by for example: limiting the performance features of the engine
(for example if the quality or type of the fluid is not
particularly suitable for the engine); changing the operation of
the engine for example if the fluid is depleted; changing the
operation according to the type of the fluid; changing the
operation according to the temperature of the fluid; preventing or
limiting operation of the engine if the fluid is not of the correct
type or origin or has reached the end of its useful life, or if the
container is not correctly fitted or if the container has reached
the end of its useful life.
[0074] In some embodiments the received signal indicates that the
reservoir of the container is in fluidic communication with the
fluid circulation system of the engine. For example, the fluid
container may comprise latches for retaining the reservoir in
fluidic communication with the fluid circulation system, and the
latches may be configured to provide data in the form of a signal
to the data module indicating that the reservoir is in fluidic
communication with the fluid circulation system of the engine. The
received signal may also be provided by the engine control device.
The latch may be part of the one or more self-sealing
couplings.
[0075] According to some embodiments the data module comprises at
least one printed circuit board (sometimes called a PCB). In some
examples the PCB is adapted to communicate with the engine control
device through electrical contacts on the replaceable container
adapted to engage corresponding contacts on or associated with the
engine.
[0076] According to at least some embodiments the data module
comprises a computer readable identifier, for example an electronic
identifier. Suitable identifiers include PCB's, radio frequency
communicators, such as near field RF communicators, examples of
which include NFC communicators (e.g. communicators which support
the RF requirements for ISO/IEC 14443A, ISO/IEC 14443 B and FeliCa
as outlined in the relevant parts in the ISO 18092) and passive or
active radio frequency identification tags (sometimes called RFID
tags).
[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a computer readable medium comprising program
instructions operable to program a processor carried by a fluid
container to control an engine by performing a method of
facilitating control of an engine comprising a fluid circulation
system as described herein.
[0078] According to at least some embodiments the computer readable
medium comprises a non-volatile memory. In at least some
embodiments the computer readable medium is carried on a fluid
container for fluid for a fluid circulation system of an engine as
herein described.
[0079] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a vehicle comprising: [0080] a replaceable fluid
container comprising a reservoir for holding fluid, at least one
self-sealing coupling and a data module fluid; [0081] an engine
comprising a fluid circulation system and a control device; in
which the reservoir is connected by the self-sealing coupling in
fluidic communication with the fluid circulation system of the
engine, and the data module is adapted to communicate data with the
engine control device.
[0082] Suitably, the replaceable fluid container is a container as
herein described.
[0083] According to at least some embodiments the fluid container
comprises an inlet and an outlet for the reservoir. When the engine
is operating, fluid flows into the reservoir from the fluid
circulation system of the engine through the inlet. When the engine
is operating, fluid flows out of the reservoir into the fluid
circulation system of the engine through the outlet. The inlet and
outlet suitably comprise self-sealing couplings.
[0084] According to at least some embodiments the fluid container
comprises a vent. Suitably, when the engine is operating the vent
is connected in fluidic communication with the engine, for example
with the fluid circulation system of the engine. In at least some
examples, the engine is an internal combustion engine and when the
engine is operating, the vent is in fluid communication with an air
inlet manifold of the engine. Suitably, the vent is connected to
the engine through a self-sealing coupling. Self-sealing couplings
have an advantage in that they facilitate removal and replacement
of the replaceable container from and to the engine. When the
engine is operating, gas and/or vapour, may flow into and/or out
from the reservoir through the vent port or vent ports when the
fluid container is connected to the engine fluid circulation
system.
[0085] Suitably, the fluid container may comprise at least one
latch which is adapted to retain the reservoir of the fluid
container in fluidic communication with said engine fluid
circulation system. The latch may be remotely operable to
disconnect said fluid container from said vehicle engine fluid
circulation system. In some examples the fluid container is
elongate; said inlet, outlet and vent ports are located at a common
first end of said container.
[0086] In general, self-sealing couplings have the characteristic
that when the coupling is being connected, a seal is made between
the connecting ports before valve or valves open to allow fluid to
flow. On disconnection, the valve or valves close to seal off each
of the ports before the coupling seal between the ports is
broken.
[0087] Suitable self-sealing couplings of the system provide a "dry
break" in which no fluid flows on connection or disconnection of
the coupling. Alternatively, the self-sealing couplings of the
system provide a "damp break" in which there is flow of only a
non-essential amount of fluid, for example a few drips of liquid,
on disconnection or connection of the coupling. Suitable
self-sealing couplings include rallye raid SPT12 couplings
available from Staubli. Other suitable types of self-sealing
coupling are described in US 2005/0161628, US2008/0265574 and
US2008/0088127.
[0088] According to at least some examples, each of the
self-sealing couplings comprises a latch which is biased to a
locking position to thereby retain the reservoir in fluidic
communication with the engine fluid circulation system. This has an
advantage that when the fluid container is positioned to connect it
to the engine, the latches engage the corresponding ports on the
engine and retain the fluid reservoir in fluidic communication with
the fluid circulation system of the engine. In at least some
examples each latch is remotely operable to disconnect the
reservoir from the vehicle engine fluid circulation system.
[0089] In at least some examples, the self-sealing couplings also
retain the fluid container on the engine. In at least some example,
the self-sealing couplings also retains the fluid container on a
manifold which is in fluidic communication with the fluid
circulation system of the engine.
[0090] According to at least some embodiments each latch is
operable by a remotely operable actuator, for example an
electromagnetic actuator. This may operate one or more of the
latches. Suitable electromagnetic actuators comprise a solenoid
which comprises a central core which is a push or pull rod which is
magnetically actuated.
[0091] Interlocks may be provided to prevent the engine from
operating if the fluid container is disconnected from the engine
fluid circulation system and/or to prevent the fluid container
being disconnected from the engine if the engine is operating.
[0092] In at least some embodiments the engine fluid circulation
system comprises one or more ports adapted to connect with the
self-sealing couplings of the replaceable fluid container, in at
least some examples, at least one (for example all) of the ports of
the engine fluid circulation system comprises a non-return valve.
Non-return valves may prevent fluid from draining back to the fluid
container when the engine is not operating. In at least some
examples the ports each comprise a control valve or shut-off valve
which may be closed when the vehicle engine is not operating, for
example to prevent or reduce fluid draining from the fluid
container to the engine.
[0093] In at least some examples the engine fluid system comprises
a vent port adapted to connect to a vent self-sealing coupling of
the fluid container. Suitably, the vent port does not comprise any
valves because fluid, for example gas and/or vapour, may be
required to flow both to and from the reservoir of the container
through the vent port or vent ports when the fluid container is
connected to the engine fluid circulation system.
[0094] Suitably, the ports of the engine fluid circulation system
are self-sealing ports. This has an advantage that when the fluid
container has been disconnected from the engine, the risk of
ingress of contaminants into the engine may be mitigated.
[0095] In at least some embodiments the fluid container comprises a
filter for filtering the fluid. This is suitable when the fluid is
an engine lubricating oil composition.
[0096] In at least some embodiments the fluid container is a
container for a fluid which is a liquid. Suitable liquids include
engine lubricating oil compositions, heat exchange fluids for
example for an electric engine, de-icers, water, screen-washes, and
detergents. The fluid may be a fluid suitable for a sustainable
fluid system for example engine lubricating oil compositions and
heat exchange fluids. The fluid may be a fluid suitable for a
non-sustainable fluid system for example de-icers, water,
screen-washes and detergents.
[0097] Suitably the fluid is a lubricating oil composition, for
example an engine lubricating oil composition. In some embodiments
the reservoir of the fluid container contains lubricating oil
composition, for example engine lubricating oil composition, in
this embodiment, the fluid container may be provided as a
self-contained system containing fresh, refreshed or unused
lubricating oil composition which may conveniently replace a fluid
container on an engine containing used or spent lubricating oil
composition. If the fluid container also comprises a filter, this
also is replaced together with the spent or used lubricating oil
composition.
[0098] According to at least some embodiments, the lubricating oil
composition comprises at least one base stock and at least one
engine lubricating oil additive. Suitable base stocks include
bio-derived base stocks, mineral oil derived base stocks, synthetic
base stocks and semi synthetic base stocks. Suitable lubricating
oil composition additives, for example engine lubricating oil
composition additives are known in the art. Suitable additives
include organic and inorganic compounds. In at least some
embodiments, in the engine lubricating oil composition comprises
about 60 to 90% by weight in total of base stocks and about 40 to
10% by weight additives. In at least some embodiments, the engine
lubricating oil composition is a lubricating oil composition for an
internal combustion engine. Suitable lubricating oil compositions
include mono-viscosity grade and multi viscosity grade engine
lubricating oil compositions. Suitable lubricating oil compositions
include single purpose lubricating oil compositions and
multi-purpose lubricating oil compositions.
[0099] Suitable lubricating oil compositions include engine
lubricating oil compositions for internal combustion engines.
Suitable engine lubricating oil compositions include lubricating
oil compositions for spark ignition internal combustion engines.
Suitable engine lubricating oil compositions include lubricating
oil compositions for compression internal combustion engines.
[0100] According to at least some embodiments the fluid container
is a container for heat exchange fluid for example for an electric
engine. Thus, in at least some embodiments the fluid container
contains heat exchange fluid for an electric engine. In at least
some example, the replaceable fluid container is provided as a
self-contained system containing fresh, refreshed or unused heat
exchange fluid for an electric engine which conveniently replaces a
system on an engine containing used or spent heat exchange fluid.
If the fluid container also comprises a filter, this also is
replaced together with the spent or used heat exchange fluid.
[0101] Electric engines may require heat exchange fluid to heat the
engine and/or cool the engine. This may depend upon the operating
cycle of the engine. Electric engines may also require a reservoir
of heat exchange fluid. The fluid container may provide a heat
storage system in which heat exchange fluid may be stored for use
to heat the electric engine when required. The fluid container may
provide a system for storage of coolant at a temperature below the
operating temperature of the engine for use to cool the electric
engine when required.
[0102] Suitable heat exchange fluids for electric engines include
aqueous and non-aqueous fluids. In at least some examples heat
exchange fluids for example for electric engines comprise organic
and/or non-organic performance boosting additives. Suitable heat
exchange fluids include man-made and bio-derived, for example
Betaine fluids. Suitable heat exchange fluids include those which
exhibit fire retarding characteristics and/or hydraulic
characteristics. Suitable heat exchange fluids include phase change
fluids. Suitable heat exchange fluids include molten metals and
salts. Suitable heat exchange fluids include nanofluids. Nanofluids
comprise nanoparticles suspended in a base fluid, which may be
solid, liquid or gas. Suitable heat exchange fluids include gases
and liquids. Suitable heat exchange fluids include liquefied
gases.
[0103] In at least some examples the fluid container is adapted to
operate at temperatures of from ambient temperature up to
200.degree. C., suitably from -20.degree. C. to 180.degree. C., for
example from -10.degree. C. to 150.degree. C.
[0104] In at least some examples the fluid container is adapted to
operate at pressures of up to 15 barg, suitably from -0.5 barg to
10 barg, for example from 0 barg to 8 barg. According to another
aspect of the present invention there is provided an engine control
system comprising a container as herein described in combination
with an engine comprising a fluid circulation system in which the
reservoir of the container is in fluidic communication with the
engine fluid circulation system.
[0105] In at least some embodiments the engine control device
comprises a memory.
[0106] In at least sonic embodiments the engine control device
comprises a microprocessor.
[0107] In at least some embodiments the engine is a vehicle engine.
Suitable vehicles include motorcycles, earthmoving vehicles, mining
vehicles, heavy duty vehicles and passenger cars.
[0108] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a vehicle comprising an engine, a fluid circulation
system for said engine and a replaceable fluid container comprising
a reservoir for holding fluid, at least one self-sealing coupling
connecting said reservoir in fluidic communication with the fluid
circulation system and a data module adapted to communicate with an
engine control device when the reservoir is in fluidic
communication with the fluid circulation system. Suitable fluid
containers include replaceable fluid containers as hereindescribed,
more suitably according to the present invention.
[0109] In at least some embodiments the engine is a vehicle engine.
Suitable vehicles include motorcycles, earthmoving vehicles, mining
vehicles, heavy duty vehicles and passenger cars.
[0110] The fluid container is advantageous where rapid replacement
of the fluid is required or advantageous, for example in "off-road"
and/or "in field" services.
[0111] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a method of supplying fluid to a vehicle engine
comprising a fluid circulation system, which method comprises
connecting to said fluid circulation system, a fluid container as
herein describe& in which the reservoir of the container
contains fluid as herein described.
[0112] Whilst fluid containers, methods and control systems for
engines, for example vehicle engines, have been described herein,
the present invention also relates to fluid containers, methods and
control systems for fluid systems of vehicles in general whether or
not associated with an engine.
[0113] Thus, according to a further aspect of the present invention
there is provided a replaceable fluid container for a vehicle, for
example for a vehicle engine, the container comprising: [0114] a
reservoir for holding a fluid; [0115] a fluid coupling adapted to
provide fluidic communication between the reservoir and a fluid
circulation system of a vehicle, for example of a vehicle engine;
and [0116] a data provider arranged such that positioning the
container to permit fluidic communication between the reservoir and
the fluid circulation system arranges the data provider for data
communication with a control device of the vehicle, for example
with an engine control device of an engine on the vehicle.
[0117] The invention extends to methods and/or apparatus
substantially as herein described with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
[0118] Any feature in one aspect of the invention may be applied to
other aspects of the invention, in any appropriate combination. In
particular, features of method aspects may be applied to apparatus
aspects, and vice versa.
[0119] Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way
of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0120] FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle; and
[0121] FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of components of the
vehicle of FIG. 1
[0122] FIG. 3 shows in schematic elevation view, a replaceable
fluid container for an engine and a partial section through a wall
of the container.
[0123] In the drawings, like reference numerals are used to
indicate like elements.
[0124] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 6 comprising an engine 4, a fluid
container 14 and an engine control device 2. The engine 4 comprises
a fluid circulation system 8.
[0125] The fluid circulation system 8 is coupled to receive fluid
from a supply line 10, and to return fluid that has circulated in
the engine 4 via a fluid return line 12.
[0126] The fluid container 14 comprises a reservoir 9 for holding a
fluid, and a data provider 1 for providing data about the fluid
container 14. The data provider 1 is coupleable to provide data to
the engine control device 2 via a first communication link 32. The
fluid container 14 comprises a fluid outlet port 91 which is
coupled to the reservoir 9. The outlet port 91 is coupleable to
supply fluid to the engine's fluid circulation system 8 via a fluid
supply line 10. The fluid inlet port 92 is coupleable to the fluid
return line 12 to enable fluid to circulate from the reservoir 9,
around the circulation system 8 of the engine 4, and back to the
reservoir 9. The fluid container 14 is described in more detail
below with reference to FIG. 2.
[0127] The ports 91, 92 of the fluid container 14 comprise
self-sealing couplings, and the container comprises latches 101,
102 configured to secure the container 14 to the fluid supply line
10 and the fluid return line 12. The latches are operable to be
released to enable the container 14 to be removed and replaced.
[0128] The engine control device 2 comprises a processor 96, and a
memory 94 configured to store control data for the engine 4. The
processor 96 is configured to monitor and to control the operation
of the engine 4, via a second communication link 34. The processor
96 is configured to control operation of the engine 4 based on the
monitoring, and based on the control data read from the memory 9.
The engine control device 2 is further configured to obtain data
from the data provider 1 via the communication link 32 and to
control the engine based on the data obtained from the data
provider 1.
[0129] In operation, the fluid container 14 is secured in fluid
communication with the fluid circulation system 8 by the latches
101, 102. When the fluid container 14 is secured by the latches,
the data provider 1 is coupled to communicate with the engine
control device 2 by the first communication link 32. The engine
control device 2 regulates operation of the engine 4 based on data
obtained from the data provider 1 in combination with data obtained
from monitoring operation of the engine 4, and data stored in the
memory 94 of the engine control device 2.
[0130] FIG. 2 shows a fluid container 140, an engine control device
2, and an engine 4, the features of any of which may be used in
combination with those of the example shown in FIG. 1.
[0131] The fluid container 140 comprises a reservoir 9 for holding
a fluid, and a vent 23 to enable pressure to be equalised in the
reservoir 9 as fluid is drawn into and out from the reservoir 9.
The fluid container 140 comprises latches 101, 102 and a latch
sensor 30 for sensing when the latches 101, 102 are engaged to
retain the fluid container 140 in fluid communication with the
fluid circulation system 8
[0132] The fluid sensor 22 comprises two metallic strips separated
from one another on a dip tube of the fluid container 14. The fluid
sensor 30 senses the oil level in the reservoir 9 based on the
capacitance of the strips to provide a signal indicative of the oil
level to the data provider 1. The fluid sensor 22 is further
configured to sense an electrical resistance of the fluid thereby
to provide an indication of the presence of impurities in the
fluid.
[0133] The data provider 1 of the fluid container 140 comprises a
processor 103 arranged to receive signals from the fluid sensor 22
and the connection sensor 30, and to communicate data to the engine
control device 2 via the communication link 31. The data provider 1
further comprises a memory 104 for storing data describing the
fluid. In particular, the memory 104 stores data including at least
one of: the grade of fluid, the type of fluid, the date on which
the fluid was filled or replaced, a unique identifier of the
container 140, an indication of whether the container is new, or
has previously been refilled or replaced, an indication of the
vehicle mileage, the number of times the container has been
refilled or reused, and the total mileage for which the container
has been used.
[0134] The engine 4 shown in FIG. 2 comprises an engine
communication interface 106 arranged to communicate operational
parameters of the engine, such as engine speed and throttle
position to the processor 96 of the engine control device 2 via the
communication link 34. The engine communication interface 106 is
further operable to receive engine commands from the engine control
device 2 and to modify operation of the engine 4 based on the
received commands.
[0135] The memory 94 of the engine control device 2 comprises
non-volatile memory configured to store: [0136] identifiers of
acceptable fluids for use in the engine 4; [0137] data defining a
first container fluid level threshold and a second fluid level
threshold; [0138] data indicative of an expected container oil
level based on the mileage of the vehicle; [0139] data defining a
service interval, wherein the service interval is the time period
between performing maintenance operations for the vehicle such as
replacing the fluid; [0140] the vehicle mileage; [0141] sets of
engine configuration data for configuring the engine to operate in
a selected way; [0142] an association (such as a look up table)
associating fluid identifiers with the sets of engine configuration
data; and, [0143] data indicative of an expected oil quality based
on the mileage of the vehicle.
[0144] The processor 96 is operable to compare data stored in the
memory 94 with data obtained from the data provider 1 of the
container 140 and from the communication interface 106 of the
engine 4.
[0145] In operation, the processor 104 of the data provider I of
the container provides an identifier of the fluid to the processor
96 of the engine control device 2. The processor 96 determines
whether the correct fluid is in use based on the fluid identifier
from the data provider 1, and the identifiers stored in the memory
94. In the event that the processor 96 determines that the
container does not comprise an acceptable fluid, the processor 96
is configured to alert the user of the vehicle and/or to prevent
operation of the engine 4. In the event that the processor 96
determines that the container does comprise an acceptable fluid,
the engine control device 2 enables operation of the engine 2. This
provides an electronic lock to inhibit unsafe or sub-optimal
operation of the engine, and may detect and inhibit the use of
counterfeit fluid products, or unauthorised refilling of the
container 140.
[0146] If operation of the engine is enabled, the processor 96
obtains a set of configuration data for the engine 2 from the
memory 94 based on the stored associations, and the fluid
identifier provided by the data provider 1. This enables the
operation of the engine to be configured or reconfigured according
to the characteristics of the fluid. When the engine is running,
the processor 96 is configured to communicate with the data
provider 1, and in the event that the data provider indicates that
the characteristics of the fluid have changed, the configuration of
the engine may be adjusted in response to these changes. This
enables the engine to adapt to real-time changes in the
characteristics of the fluid.
[0147] The processor 103 of the container 140 is configured to
obtain data indicating the expected fluid level based on the
mileage since the fluid was last refilled, and to compare the fluid
level sensed by the sensor 22 with stored data. In the event that
this comparison indicates that the fluid level is changing more
quickly than expected, the data provider can be configured to send
a signal to the engine control device 2 to modify a service
interval for the vehicle based on this comparison.
[0148] The fluid may be any type of fluid circulated in the engine
4 to support a function of the engine, which may be an ancillary
function of the engine. For example the fluid may be lubricant, or
coolant, or de-icer, or any other fluid associated with the engine.
As many different types and grades of such fluid are available, the
data provider may comprise an identifier of the fluid.
[0149] The data provider 1 may comprise a memory storing an
identifier of the fluid, and a communication interface to enable
data stored in the memory of the data provider 1 to be passed via
the communication link 32 to the processor 96 of the engine control
device. The data provider 1 may comprise a computer readable
identifier for identifying the fluid, the identifier may be an
electronic identifier, such as a near field RF communicator, for
example a passive or active RFID tag, or an NFC communicator.
[0150] The data provider 1 may be configured for one way
communication. For example the data provider 1 may be configured
only to receive data from the engine control device, so that the
data can be provided to memory at the container. Alternatively the
data provider 1 may be configured only to provide data to the
engine control device. In some possibilities the data provider 1 is
adapted to provide data to and receive data from the engine control
device. The receiving and providing of data may be to, from or
between (i) memory/memories and/or processor(s) of the engine
control device and (ii) the data provider and/or sensor(s) of the
data provider and/or a memory/memories of the data provider.
[0151] The memory can store data comprising at least one property
of the fluid selected from the group consisting of: the amount of
fluid, the temperature of fluid, the pressure of fluid, the
viscosity of fluid, the viscosity index of the fluid, the density
of fluid, the electrical resistance of fluid, the dielectric
constant of fluid, the opacity of fluid, the chemical composition
of fluid, the origin of the fluid and combinations of two or more
thereof. The memory may also be configured to receive data from an
engine control device. This enables data to be stored at the
container. Such stored data can then be provided from the memory to
diagnostic devices during servicing and/or during replacement of
the container. The amount of fluid includes the absence of the
fluid.
[0152] The memory is optional. The computer readable identifier may
be an optical identifier, such as a barcode, for example a
two-dimensional barcode, or a colour coded marker, or optical
identifier on the container. The computer readable identifier may
be provided by a shape or configuration of the container 14.
Regardless of how it is provided, the identifier may be
encrypted.
[0153] The communication link 32 may be any wired or wireless
communication link, and may comprise an optical link.
[0154] The latches 101, 102, are optional and the container 14, 140
may simply he fluid coupled to the circulation system. The
container 14, 140 can be secured by gravity, an interference fit, a
bayonet coupling, or any appropriate fixture. The data provider 1
may be positioned on the container 140 so that, when the container
is coupled in fluidic communication with the fluid circulation
system of the engine, the data provider 1 is also arranged to
communicate data with the engine control device, and if the
container is not positioned for fluidic communication with the
fluid circulation system, communication with the data provider is
inhibited.
[0155] The container 140 has been described as comprising
particular types of sensors. However, one or both of these sensors
may be omitted, e.g. as in FIG. 1 above. Where sensors are used any
type of sensor, or combination of sensors can be used. For example,
to sense the level of fluid in the container: a mechanical float, a
position sensor, an electrical coil, capacitive sensors,
resistivity sensors, ultrasonic level detection, visible or
infra-red light detection, pressure sensing, or other sensors. The
sensing system may provide information about the level in a
continuous range between two fixed points or as discrete levels
(e.g. full, half full, empty). Additionally, if the level of the
liquid increased rapidly it could indicate some form of failure in
the engine and provide an early warning mechanism to help prevent
further damage to the engine. The containers 14, 140 may comprise
sensors configured to sense at least one of a temperature,
pressure, viscosity, density, electrical resistance, dielectric
constant, opacity, chemical composition or amount of the container
oil. It will further be appreciated that a plurality of fluid
sensors could be provided, each to sense a different property of
the fluid.
[0156] Information about the oil quality may be obtained through
simple capacitance or resistivity measurements. These might, for
example, indicate the presence of water in the oil or of metallic,
or carbonaceous particulates suspended in the oil.
[0157] The fluid container 14, 140 may be a container for an engine
lubricating oil composition, a heat exchange fluid for cooling at
least some working components of the engine 4, and/or heating some
working components of the engine 4.
[0158] In the context of the present disclosure, those skilled in
the art will appreciate that the fluid ports of the fluid container
14, 140 could comprise any suitable coupling for retaining the
fluid container 14, 140 in fluid communication with the fluid
circulation system 8. The port couplings could be arranged to be
remotely decoupled from the fluid lines 10, 12 to place the fluid
container 14 in its uncoupled configuration. It will further be
appreciated that the fluid container 14 could comprise an actuator
to decouple the fluid container 14, 140 from the circulation system
8.
[0159] Although circulated engine oil is described as being
returned to the fluid container 14, 140 for recirculation, in the
context of the present disclosure, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that circulated engine oil could be collected and stored
in a container coupled to the engine 4 and, when convenient,
emptied from or otherwise removed from the vehicle 6.
[0160] Although the metallic strips of the sensor 22 are described
as being on an oil dip tube, they may be located on an inner wall
of the fluid container 14, 140.
[0161] A position sensor could be configured to provide signals
indicative of a continuous range of oil levels between two
predetermined values, for example a first value indicating the
fluid container is full and a second value indicating the container
is empty, or only for predetermined oil levels, such as "full",
"half full" or "empty". The position sensor 30 could be configured
to communicate continuously with the container module 16 or at
selected time intervals or in response to a signal from the
processor 96 of the engine control device.
[0162] FIG. 3 shows an elevation view of a fluid container 300 and
a partial section through a wall of the container 300. The
container 300 comprises a body 304, and a base 306. The body 304 is
secured to the base by a lip 302. A data provider 308 is carried in
the lip 302.
[0163] The lip 302 includes a data coupling 310 to enable the data
provider 308 to be coupled to an interface 312 for communicating
data with an engine control device (not shown in FIG. 3). The
interface 312 comprises connectors 314 for connecting the interface
312 with the data provider 308 of the container 300.
[0164] The base 306 of the container 300 comprises a fluid coupling
(not shown in FIG. 3) for coupling fluid from a reservoir of the
fluid container with a fluid circulation system of an engine. The
fluid coupling and the data coupling 310 are arranged so that
connecting the fluid coupling in fluidic, communication with the
fluid circulation system of an engine also couples the data
provider 308 for data communication with the engine control device
via the interface 312 by seating the connectors 314 of the
interface in the data coupling 310 on the container 310.
[0165] The interface 312 and the connectors 314 provide electrical
connections for eight (8) channels which provide measurements for
fluid temperature, fluid pressure, fluid quality, fluid type, and
the level (e.g. amount) of fluid in the container. The connectors
314 may be arranged to provide electrical power to the data
provider 308.
[0166] Although the example shown in FIG. 3 comprises conductive
electrical connections 314 for communicating with the data provider
308 a contactless connection may also be used. For example,
inductive or capacitive coupling can be used to provide contactless
communication. One example of inductive coupling is provided by
RFID, however other near field communications technology may also
be used. Such couplings may enable electrical power to be
transferred to the data provider 308, and also have the advantage
that the data connection does not require any complex mechanical
arrangement and the presence of dirt or grease on the couplings
310, 314 is less likely to inhibit communication with the data
provider 308.
[0167] The container 300 may comprise a power provider such as a
battery for providing electrical power to the data provider 308
this may enable the container 300 to be provided with a range of
sensors, including sensors for fluid temperature, pressure and
electrical conductivity. Where the container 300 comprises a filter
sensors may be arranged to sense these parameters of the fluid as
the fluid flows into the filter, and after the fluid has flowed
through the filter.
[0168] The data provider 308 may be configured to provide
information relating to the fluid in the container, for example,
where the fluid is oil, the oil grade and/or type. The data
provider may also provide data indicating the date on which the
container was refilled, a unique serial number of the container,
the length of time (e.g. number of hours) for which the container
has been used, and whether the container holds new or refilled
fluid.
[0169] The function of the processors 103, 96 may be provided by
any appropriate controller, for example by analogue and/or digital
logic, field programmable gate arrays, FPGA, application specific
integrated circuits, ASIC, a digital signal processor, DSP, or by
software loaded into a programmable general purpose processor.
Aspects of the disclosure provide computer program products, and
tangible non-transitory media storing instructions to program a
processor to perform any one or more of the methods described
herein.
[0170] Other variations and modifications of the apparatus will be
apparent to persons of skill in the art in the context of the
present disclosure.
* * * * *