Patent ID: 6622671
Filing Date: 2003-09-23
Classification: F02D,Y02T

Abstract:
A method of controlling an exhaust timing control valve, the method comprising starting an engine comprising an exhaust valve and a generator, initiating a mapped exhaust valve control strategy when an actual engine speed exceeds a first predetermined engine speed that correlates to a minimal engine speed at which the generator can produce sufficient power to energize a motive member and a control unit to operational states,closing the exhaust valve with the control unit after the actual engine speed exceeds the first predetermined engine speed, comparing the actual engine speed to a second predetermined engine speed which is approximately an idle speed and initiating a first exhaust valve cleaning operation when the actual engine speed first exceeds the second predetermined engine speed following engine start-up, comparing the actual engine speed to a third predetermined engine speed which is approximately a speed at which it is desirable to open the exhaust valve and opening the exhaust valve according to a mapped strategy when the engine actual speed exceeds the third predetermined engine speed, and comparing the actual engine speed to a fourth predetermined engine speed which is above the second predetermined engine speed and below the third predetermined engine speed and initiating a second exhaust valve cleaning operation when the engine speed decreases from at least the third predetermined engine speed to below the fourth predetermined engine speed.