Patent ID: 8214095
Filing Date: 2012-07-03
Classification: B60L,B60W,Y02T

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling a powertrain system including an internal combustion engine coupled via an input member to a hybrid transmission including a torque machine, the hybrid transmission configured to transfer torque between the engine, the torque machine, and an output member, wherein a microprocessor performs the following steps: commanding engine operation to transition from an engine-off state to an engine-on state; spinning the engine and subsequently fueling the engine; monitoring an input speed and determining an input torque from the engine to the input member; performing a first engine firing diagnostic comprising detecting the engine is firing when the input speed is greater than an input flare speed; performing a second engine firing diagnostic comprising detecting the engine is firing when the input torque is a positive value, the input torque is increasing, and a time-rate change in the input torque exceeds a threshold; performing a third engine firing diagnostic comprising detecting the engine is firing when the input torque is greater than a threshold after a calibrated time period, and performing the first engine firing diagnostic and subsequently performing the second engine firing diagnostic only when performance of the first engine firing diagnostic does not detect the engine is firing, and subsequently performing the third engine firing diagnostic only when performance of the second engine firing diagnostic does not detect the engine is firing.