Patent ID: 6542853
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: F02B,F02D,G07C,Y02T

Abstract:
A life estimation device for an engine which collects data of operation parameters which values change when the engine is operating and estimates a life of the engine based on the data of the operation parameters, comprising:load map setting means for selecting one operation parameter or two or more operation parameters indicative of a load exerted on the engine, and dividing a value of the one operation parameter or combinations of values of the two or more operation parameters into a plurality of levels, so as to set a one-dimensional or two- or more dimensional load map for indicating a distribution of magnitude of the load exerted on the engine; operation parameter detection means for detecting the values of the operation parameters; time integration means, by detecting, the operation parameters by the operation parameter detection means until a predetermined time elapses, for integrating a time during which operation parameter values belonging to the respective level are detected for each level of the load map; weight setting means for setting a weight in accordance with the load of the respective level for each level of the load map; damage quantity calculation means for determining the weighted integration time for each level of the load map by weighting the integration time integrated by the time integration means in accordance with the weight set by the weight setting means, and calculating an actual damage quantity exerted on the engine until the predetermined time elapses based on the integration time weighted for each level of the load map; correspondence relationship setting means for presetting a correspondence relationship between a magnitude of the damage quantity and a length of life by pre-operating the engine; and life estimation means for determining a life corresponding to the actual damage quantity calculated by the damage quantity calculation means from the correspondence relationship preset by the correspondence relationship setting means, and outputting the determined life as the estimated life of the engine.