Patent ID: 7617808
Filing Date: 2009-11-17
Classification: B60K,B60L,B60W,F02N,Y02T,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A method for detecting sustained combustion in the engine of a hybrid electric powertrain that includes an electric machine driveably connected to the engine, a transmission for driving a load, and an input clutch for opening and closing a drive connection between the electric machine and the transmission, the method comprising the steps of: (a) using the electric machine to crank the engine; (b) activating an engine operating parameter that will start the engine; (c) producing slip across the input clutch; (d) determining that a sum of torque applied to a crankshaft of the engine by the machine and torque applied to said crankshaft by the transmission is less than a reference torque magnitude; and (e) discontinuing use of the electric machine to crank the engine.