CN101178031B

CN101178031B - Variable valve timing control device of internal combustion engine

Info

Publication number: CN101178031B
Application number: CN200710154794.7A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 漆畑晴行; 饭田寿
Original assignee: Denso Corp
Current assignee: Denso Corp
Priority date: 2002-10-25
Filing date: 2003-10-23
Publication date: 2010-06-02
Anticipated expiration: 2023-10-23
Also published as: CN101178033B; CN100406699C; CN101178033A; CN101178032B; CN1692217A; CN101178032A; CN101178031A

Abstract

The invention relatse to a variable valve timing control device for an internal combustion engine. A required valve timing change rate Vreq is calculated so as to make a deviation D between a target valve timing VTtg and an actual valve timing VT small and then a required speed difference DMCRreq between a motor 26 and a camshaft 16 is calculated on a basis of the required valve timing change rate Vreq. When the deviation D is larger than a predetermined value, a required motor speed Rmreq is calculated by adding the required speed difference DMCRreq to a camshaft speed RC and a motor control value is calculated so as to control the motor speed RM to the required motor speed Rmreq. When the deviation D is not larger than the predetermined value, the camshaft speed RC is set as the required motor speed Rmreq and the motor control value is calculated so as to control the motor speed RM to the camshaft speed RC.

Description

The variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine

The application is that application number is 200380100632.5, the applying date is on October 23rd, 2003 and denomination of invention dividing an application for the Chinese patent application of " variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine ".

Technical field

The present invention relates to the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine, be used to change the valve timing of the intake valve or the exhaust valve of internal-combustion engine.

Background technique

In recent years, in the internal-combustion engine in being installed in motor vehicle, the internal-combustion engine of more and more quantity has adopted variable valve timing apparatus, is used to change the valve timing of intake valve and exhaust valve, realize increasing output, reduce fuel consumption and the purpose that reduces toxic emission.At present so that change the rotatable phase of camshaft with respect to crankshaft, the valve timing that changes the intake valve that driven and/or exhaust valve is so that open and close by camshaft by hydraulic driving phase change mechanism for the most of variable valve timing apparatus that use.Yet, in similar this hydraulic driving variable valve timing apparatus, exist in the cold conditions and when ato unit, the defective that the responsiveness of hydraulic pressure deficiency, hydraulic control descends and the validity of valve timing control descends.

In this regard, for example disclosed in JP-A-6-213021, developed electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus, wherein use driving power from motor, drive phase change mechanism so that with respect to crankshaft, change the rotatable phase of camshaft, thereby change valve timing.

Yet, in the electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus of prior art, because being motor, structure does the whole rotation of belt pulley as a whole and by crankshaft rotation driving, exist the inertia weight of rotary system of variable valve timing apparatus very heavy, and the very poor defective of the durability of variable valve timing apparatus.In addition, the sliding contact configuration of necessary use brush etc. is so that connect turning motor and external cable, and this also can cause the reduction durability.Simultaneously, the electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus of prior art has their the very complicated and defect of high cost of overall structure.

In view of such circumstances, made of the present invention, and the variable valve timing control device that the purpose of this invention is to provide internal-combustion engine, by this equipment, in the durability of the increase that realizes variable valve timing apparatus and the requirement that reduces cost, can control valve timing by motoring, and can improve the validity of valve timing control.

Summary of the invention

For achieving the above object, variable valve timing apparatus according to the present invention has first rotary component, is driven in rotation with the concentric placement of camshaft and by the rotation driving power from crankshaft; Second rotary component is with the whole rotation of camshaft; The phase change parts are sent to rotary power second rotary component and with respect to first rotary component, change the rotatable phase of second rotary component from first rotary component; And motor, with the concentric placement of camshaft so that control the rotatable phase of these phase change parts, and be configured to when do not change valve timing, the speeds match that makes the speed of motor and camshaft is so that make the rotational speed of phase change parts and the speeds match of camshaft, thereby the difference that makes the rotatable phase between first rotary component and second rotary component keeps stable, thereby make camshaft phase keep stable, and when change valve timing, speed with respect to camshaft, the speed that changes motor is so that with respect to the speed of camshaft, change the rotational speed of phase change parts, thereby change the difference of the rotatable phase between first rotary component and second rotary component, thereby change camshaft phase.

In this structure, because needn't rotate whole motor, can alleviate variable valve timing apparatus rotary system inertia weight and by fixed connection apparatus, motor can be directly connected on the external cable, and the durability that can increase variable valve timing apparatus.In addition, the structure of variable valve timing apparatus is simple relatively, and the demand that can satisfy cost minimization.

Simultaneously, in the present invention, on the basis of the deviation between target valve timing and the actual valve timing, calculate and change speed (rate) required valve timing, on the basis of required change valve timing rate, required speed difference between calculating motor and camshaft, and the calculating motor controlling value is so that control to required speed difference with the speed difference between motor and camshaft.If do like this, speed that can good accuracy feedforward control motor so as to make motor and camshaft between speed difference and required speed difference coupling, by motoring, the actual valve timing can be controlled to target valve timing, and can improve the valve timing control validity.

In this case, as being used to calculate the concrete grammar that is used for the speed difference between motor and camshaft is controlled to the required motor control value of required speed difference, for example, can be on the basis of camshaft speed and required speed difference, calculate required electromotor velocity, then, the calculating motor controlling value is so that control to required electromotor velocity with electromotor velocity.Perhaps, can calculate the basic controlling value that is used for electromotor velocity is controlled to the basic electromotor velocity identical with camshaft speed, calculate then and be used for respect to basic electromotor velocity, electromotor velocity is changed the change controlling value of required speed difference, and on the basis of basic controlling value and change controlling value, the calculating motor controlling value.By using any one of these methods, can accurately calculate the speed difference between motor and camshaft is controlled to the required motor control value of required speed difference.

Simultaneously, when the deviation of target valve timing and positive time of actual valve is lower than predetermined value, can the calculating motor controlling value so that electromotor velocity is controlled to the speed identical with camshaft speed.If do like this, when the actual valve timing is or near target during valve timing, former state stably keeps this actual valve timing.

Now, because the output torque of motor also consumes the loss torque that causes for by the driving of frictional loss in the variable valve timing apparatus and cam axle head (side) loss, with the speed difference between motor and camshaft control to the required motor control value of required speed difference (applying magnitude of voltage, duty ratio value or the like) with in the variable valve timing apparatus and the loss of the driving on the cam axle head change.And, in motor, generate counterelectromotive force because when motor rotates, the speed difference between motor and camshaft is controlled to the required motor control value of required speed difference also change with the counterelectromotive force of motor.

In view of these situations, best, use at least one in the counterelectromotive force of the frictional loss of variable valve timing apparatus or the parameter relevant, the loss of the driving on the cam axle head or the parameter relevant and motor or itself and the relevant parameter, the calculating motor controlling value with it with it.When doing like this, because consider in the variable valve timing apparatus and the cam axle head on the variation of driving loss and the variation of the counterelectromotive force of motor, energy calculating motor controlling value, can be with good accuracy, calculating controls to the required motor control value of required speed difference with the speed difference between motor and camshaft, and the frictional loss and the counterelectromotive force that are not subjected to just standing influence.

In variable valve timing apparatus of the present invention, change because change valve timing rate is consistent with the speed difference between motor and camshaft, the mill abrasion in the variable valve timing apparatus is lost also and the speed difference between motor and camshaft consistently changes (in correspondence with).Therefore, during the parameter (frictional loss or relevant therewith parameter) of the frictional loss in using variable valve timing apparatus, although the parameter of the frictional loss in the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus of the actual difference between calculating and motor and camshaft, in addition, also can calculating and motor and camshaft between the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus of required speed difference in the parameter of frictional loss.In this way, can feedover and calculate the parameter of the frictional loss in the variable valve timing apparatus that will be used in the calculating motor controlling value, and the responsiveness that can increase the motor Spin Control.Therefore, even under the operating condition that changes electromotor velocity (camshaft speed) suddenly, such as during idle running (race of engine), can make the motor rotational speed follow the rapid change of camshaft and the validity that can guarantee valve timing control with the good response degree.

Simultaneously, because the counterelectromotive force of motor and electromotor velocity consistently change, when using motor back emf parameter (counterelectromotive force or relevant therewith parameter), although can with the actual velocity of motor calculating motor counterelectromotive force parameter consistently, also can with based on camshaft speed and required speed difference and the required electromotor velocity that calculates consistently, the calculating motor counterelectromotive force.If do like this, can feedover and calculate the motor back emf parameter that is used in the calculating motor controlling value, and can obtain effect same as described above.

Now, as shown in figure 12, when electromotor velocity changed, the counterelectromotive force of motor changed and effective voltage (difference between cell voltage and counterelectromotive force) changes.And when electromotor velocity increases, increase with electromotor velocity, effective voltage reduces, and on the contrary, when electromotor velocity increases, increases with electromotor velocity, and effective voltage increases.

Therefore, best, whether just increase or reduce the correcting motor controlling value according to electromotor velocity and/or its.If do like this, though when effective voltage with electromotor velocity with and whether just increasing or reducing and when changing, can be therewith correcting motor controlling value consistently.Therefore, can calculate suitable motor control value, and not be subjected to the influence of the variation of the effective voltage that just standing.The correction of this motor control value can be applied in a system, in this system, will be used for the duty ratio value (excitation speed) that duty control is provided to power of electric motor and be calculated as the motor control value.In duty control, be used for the duty ratio value of service voltage by adjusting, the pulse width of regulating service voltage, and regulate and be provided to power of electric motor.Yet,, when effective voltage (difference between cell voltage and counterelectromotive force) changes,, be provided to power of electric motor and also correspondingly change because the amplitude of service voltage pulse changes even in identical duty ratio value.Therefore, if whether just increasing or reducing to proofread and correct duty ratio value based on electromotor velocity and its, duty ratio value and the pulse width that can proofread and correct service voltage are used for electromotor velocity and its effective voltage change and change of service voltage pulse amplitude that whether is just increasing or reducing.Therefore, can be by proofreading and correct the service voltage pulse width, the change of the supply power that compensation is caused by the amplitude variations of service voltage pulse.

And can on the speed difference between change valve timing rate, motor and camshaft and in the electromotor velocity at least one, limiting value be set.If do like this, because can limit difference and electromotor velocity between change valve timing rate, motor and camshaft with a limiting value, fault and the loss that can avoid the start by the assurance limit that exceeds variable valve timing apparatus to cause.

The embodiment's of the accompanying drawing below using description, other features of the present invention and effect will become apparent.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the schematic configuration diagram of the overall system control in the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is the schematic configuration diagram of variable valve timing apparatus;

Fig. 3 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of first embodiment's Variable Valve Time control program;

Fig. 4 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression first embodiment's motor control value computer program;

Fig. 5 is the schematic representation of the figure of the required torque TAreq of principle ground expression;

Fig. 6 is the schematic representation of the figure of principle ground expression camshaft damaged on end consumption torque TB;

Fig. 7 be principle be illustrated in the variable valve timing apparatus schematic representation of the figure of loss torque TC;

Fig. 8 is the schematic representation of figure of the counterelectromotive force E of principle ground expression motor;

Fig. 9 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression second embodiment's motor control value computer program;

Figure 10 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 3rd embodiment's motor control value computer program;

Figure 11 A is that the expression of principle ground is used for when increasing electromotor velocity the schematic representation of the figure of effective voltage correction factor K;

Figure 11 B is that the expression of principle ground is used for when reducing electromotor velocity the schematic representation of the figure of effective voltage correction factor K;

Figure 12 be expression effective voltage and electromotor velocity relation with and increase or the schematic representation that reduces;

Figure 13 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 4th embodiment's motor control value computer program;

Figure 14 is the flow chart of a part of flow process of processing of expression the 5th embodiment's motor control value computer program;

Figure 15 to 17 is illustrated among the 6th embodiment, the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of actual valve timing computer program;

Figure 18 and Figure 19 are that example illustrates in the 7th embodiment the flow chart of actual valve timing computer program;

Figure 20 is illustrated among the 7th embodiment, the sequential chart of the example that the actual valve timing is calculated;

Figure 21 is that example illustrates that in the eighth embodiment of the present invention, the variable range of valve timing and ratio limit the view in district;

Figure 22 is the schematic representation of expression engine speed and the positive time relation of actual valve;

Figure 23 is the schematic representation of the expression change valve timing rate and the relation between changing of slowing down;

Figure 24 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 8th embodiment's change valve timing rate limit control program;

Figure 25 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 9th embodiment's change valve timing rate limit control program;

Figure 26 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 9th embodiment's target computer program valve timing;

Figure 27 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the tenth embodiment's change valve timing rate limit control program;

Figure 28 is that the flow chart of flow process of the processing of preferential control program is learnt in expression the 11 embodiment's reference position;

Figure 29 is that the flow chart of flow process of the processing of unusual definite program is learnt in expression the 12 embodiment's reference position;

Figure 30 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 12 embodiment's change valve timing rate limit control program;

Figure 31 is that the flow chart of flow process of the processing of preferential control program is learnt in expression the 13 embodiment's reference position;

Figure 32 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 14 embodiment's pretrigger reference position study control program;

Figure 33 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 15 embodiment's pretrigger reference position study control program;

Figure 34 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 16 embodiment's pretrigger reference position study control program;

Figure 35 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 17 embodiment's throttle timing control program;

Figure 36 is that expression the 17 embodiment's motor just changes/reverse the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of determining program;

Figure 37 is illustrated among the 17 embodiment, is used for the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of the valve timing control program of engine revolution forward;

Figure 38 is illustrated among the 17 embodiment, is used for the flow chart of flow process of processing of the valve timing control program of shutting engine down;

Figure 39 is illustrated among the 17 embodiment, is used for the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of the valve timing control program of engine revolution backward;

Figure 40 is the flow chart that expression the 17 embodiment's reference position arrives the flow process of the processing of determining program;

Figure 41 is illustrated among the 17 embodiment, the sequential chart of the example of Variable Valve Time control;

Figure 42 is that expression the 18 embodiment's motor just changes/reverse the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of determining program;

Figure 43 is the flow chart of flow process that expression the 19 embodiment's engine revolution state is determined the processing of program;

Figure 44 is among expression the 20 embodiment, is used for the flow chart of flow process of processing of the valve timing control program of shutting engine down;

Figure 45 is illustrated among the 21 embodiment, is used for the flow chart of flow process of processing of the valve timing control program of shutting engine down;

Figure 46 is illustrated among the 22 embodiment, the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of the valve timing control program of shutting engine down;

Figure 47 is illustrated among the 23 embodiment, and the reference position arrives the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of determining program;

Figure 48 is illustrated among the 24 embodiment, and the reference position arrives the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of determining program;

Figure 49 is illustrated among the 25 embodiment, and the reference position arrives the flow chart of the flow process of the processing of determining program; And

Figure 50 is the flow chart of flow process of processing of expression the 26 embodiment's variable valve timing apparatus operational condition reprogramming.

Embodiment

(first embodiment)

Now, on the basis of Fig. 1 to Fig. 8, the first embodiment of the present invention of the variable valve timing control device that is applied to intake valve is described.At first, the profile structure of whole system is described according to Fig. 1.Through

sprocket wheel

14,15,, will be sent to inlet end camshaft 16 and exhaust end camshaft 17 from the power of the crankshaft 12 of internal-combustion engine 11 by timing chain 13 (or Timing Belt).At inlet end camshaft 16 ends electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus 18 is set.This variable valve timing apparatus 18 changes the rotatable phase (camshaft phase) of inlet end camshaft 16 with respect to crankshaft 12, thereby, change the valve timing of the intake valve (not shown) that is driven so that open and close by inlet end camshaft 16.

Be used for being installed in inlet end camshaft 16 next doors with the cam angle sensor 19 of predetermined cam angle interval output cam angle signal.And be used for being installed in crankshaft 12 next doors with the crank angle sensor 20 of predetermined crank angle interval output crank angle signal.

Then, on the basis of Fig. 2, will the form structure of variable valve timing apparatus 18 be described.The phase change mechanism 21 of variable valve timing apparatus 18 by with inlet end camshaft 16 concentric external gears 22 (first rotary component) of placing, having internal tooth, be positioned at inner and concentric with it, as the to have external tooth internal gear 23 (second rotary component) of this external gear 22, and be positioned at

external gear

22 and 23 of internal gears and form with their planet gear meshed (phase change parts).Provide external gear 22 so that rotate with sprocket wheel 14 integral body, sprocket wheel 14 rotates synchronously with crankshaft 12.Provide internal gear 23 so that rotate with inlet end camshaft 16 integral body.Carry out the task of the rotary power of external gear 22 being sent to internal gear 23 with external gear 22 and internal gear 23 planet gear meshed 24 by rotation simultaneously so that describe the circular track of relevant internal gear 22, and by rotational speed (rotating speed) with respect to the planetary pinion 24 of the rotational speed of the internal gear 23 that is just changing, with respect to external gear 22, adjust the rotatable phase (camshaft phase) of internal gear 23.

On motor 11, be provided for changing the motor 26 of the rotational speed of planetary pinion 24.The output shaft 27 of this motor and inlet end camshaft 16, external gear 22 and internal gear 23 coaxial placements, and the connected element 28 by extending diametrically connect the output shaft 27 of this motor 26 and the back shaft 25 of support planetary gears 24.Therefore, along with motor 26 rotations, planetary pinion 24 can be along its circular track rotation (revolution) around internal gear 23, simultaneously around back shaft 25 rotations (rotation automatically).Motor speed sensor 29 (see figure 1)s of the rotational speed RM (speed of output shaft 27) that is used to detect motor 26 are installed on motor 26.

In this variable valve timing apparatus 18, when the speed RC of the speed RM of motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16 coupling, so that during the rotational speed of the rotating speed of planetary pinion 24 and internal gear 23 (and rotational speed of external gear 2) coupling, it is stable that the rotatable phase difference that external gear 22 and internal gear are 23 keeps, therefore, keep stable valve timing (camshaft phase).

When shift to an earlier date the valve timing of intake valve, make the speed RC of the speed RM of motor 26, with the rotating speed that causes planetary pinion 24 rotational speed faster than internal gear 23 faster than inlet end camshaft 16.In this way, shift to an earlier date rotatable phase, and shift to an earlier date valve timing (camshaft phase) with respect to the internal gear 23 of external gear 22.

When on the other hand, make the speed RM of motor 26 be slower than the speed RC of inlet end camshaft 16 when delaying the valve timing of intake valve, so that make planetary rotating speed 24 be slower than the rotational speed of internal gear 23.In this way, delay rotatable phase, therefore, delay valve timing with respect to the internal gear 23 of external gear 22.

The output of aforesaid reversible transducer is input to control unit of engine (being called hereinafter, " ECU ") 30.Constitute this ECU30 at the microcomputer place, and be stored in variable engine control program among its ROM (storage medium) by execution, according to the operating condition of motor, the fuel injection amount of control Fuelinjection nozzle (not shown) and the ignition timing of spark plug (not shown).

ECU30 also carries out Variable Valve Time control program shown in Figure 3 and engine control value computer program shown in Figure 4, and this will further describe hereinafter.By carrying out these programs, at first, calculate and change speed Vreq required valve timing so that minimize target VTtg valve timing of intake valve and the deviation D between actual valve timing VT.Change on the basis of speed Vreq the required speed difference DMCreq that calculating motor 26 and camshaft are 16 in this required valve timing.And calculating motor controlling value (for example motor applies magnitude of voltage) is so that control to required speed difference DMCreq with the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts.In this way, the rotation of control motor 26 is so that control to required speed difference DMCreq with the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts, therefore, the actual valve timing VT of intake valve controlled to target VTtg valve timing.Below, with the detailed process content of these programs of description.

After connecting the ignition switch (not shown),, carry out Variable Valve Time control program shown in Figure 3 for example with predetermined periodic intervals.When this program begins, at first,, on the basis of the operating condition of motor, calculate target VTtg valve timing in step 101.Handle entering step 102 then, and, calculate actual valve timing VT from the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor 20 outputs with from the basis of the cam angle signal of cam angle sensor 19 outputs.Also as after a while described in described the 6th embodiment, carry out the calculating of actual valve timing VT.

After calculating actual valve timing VT, handle entering step 103, and calculate the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT.Then, corresponding in step 104 with this deviation D, calculate that change speed Vreq required valve timing so that use figure or the like minimizes this deviation.For example, the change direction in valve timing is to the degree of advance end, and change speed Vreq this required valve timing, be assumed on the occasion of, and, be negative value when being during to the hysteresis angled ends.The processing execution of this step 104 changes the task of rate calculations device valve timing.

After this, processing enters step 105 and determines whether and with respect to changing speed valve timing hump speed Vs is set.This hump speed Vs changes speed slow relatively valve timing, uses this speed, for example promptly is used in the motion portion bump retainer of the range of movement of restriction phase change mechanism 21, and the tooth polishing and the damage of gear mechanism (gear 22 to 24) can not take place yet.Such as: [1] is when actual valve timing VT is near delaying most the position, angle or near the rate limit district that is provided with the full aduance position; [2] when also not finishing reference position when study valve timing; And [3] time when determining to have reference learning unusual (the reference position study of mistake), hump speed Vs is set.In described the 7th embodiment after a while, describe setting value in detail with respect to the hump speed Vs that changes speed valve timing.

When in this step 105, when determining velocity limit Vs has been set, handle entering step 106, and determine whether to change the absolute value of speed Vreq required valve timing greater than hump speed Vs.If as this result, the absolute value of determining to change speed Vreq required valve timing handles entering step 107 and by hump speed Vs, protecting processing to need change valve timing the absolute value of speed Vreq greater than hump speed Vs.Then, processing enters step 108.

When on the other hand, in step 105, when determining also hump speed Vs not to be set, or when in step 106, determined that the absolute value that changes speed Vreq required valve timing is not more than hump speed Vs, processing enters step 108, and do not change and target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT between required valve timing of the corresponding to calculating of deviation D change speed Vreq.

In this step 108, use to change speed Vreq[° CA/S required valve timing], by equation (1), the required speed difference DMCreq[rpm that calculating motor 26 and camshaft are 16].

DMCreq＝Vreq×60×G/720°CA ...(1)

Wherein, G is the reduction speed ratio of phase change mechanism 21, and is with respect to the relative speed of the motor 26 of camshaft 16 and the ratio of variable valve timing (camshaft phase variable).The task of the processing rate difference computing device of this step 108.

After calculating required speed difference DMCreq, handle and enter the motor control value computer program shown in step 109 and the execution graph 4, and the calculating motor controlling value.The task of this motor control value computer program operating motor controlling value computing device shown in Fig. 4.

When beginning this program, at first, in step 201, determine whether the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT is lower than predetermined value.If this deviation D is lower than predetermined value, handle entering step 202 and required velocity of motor RMreq is arranged to cam angle speed RC, shown in equation (2).

RMreq＝RC ...(2).

If on the other hand, in step 201, determine deviation D greater than predetermined value, processing enters step 203 and required electromotor velocity RMreq is arranged to go up the value that obtains by required speed difference DMCreq being added to camshaft speed RC, shown in equation (3).

RMreq＝RC+DMCreq ...(3)

After required electromotor velocity RMreq is set, handle entering step 204 in aforesaid step 202 or step 203.In step 204, use figure or the numerical expression of required torque TAreq shown in Figure 5, calculate required torque TAreq corresponding to the difference between required electromotor velocity RMreq and camshaft speed RC.This required torque TAreq is with required engine speed RMreq, the required resulting torque of rotation planetary pinion 24 (not comprising the torque of the loss torque of any loss torque in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 or camshaft 16 ends).With respect to the difference between required electromotor velocity RMreq and camshaft speed RC, on the basis of the change characteristic of required torque TAreq, the figure of required torque TAreq shown in Figure 5 is set.

After this, handle the figure or the numerical expression that enter step 205 and use camshaft shown in Figure 6 16 damageds on end consumption torque TB, calculate loss torque TB corresponding to camshaft 16 ends of camshaft speed RC.This camshaft 16 damageds on end consumption torque TB is the torque that the result consumed as the drive loss on camshaft 16 ends.On basis, the figure of camshaft shown in Figure 6 16 damageds on end consumption torque TB is set with respect to the change characteristic of camshaft 16 damageds on end of camshaft speed RC consumption torque TB.

In following step 206, figure or the numerical expression of the loss torque TC of use in variable valve timing apparatus shown in Figure 7 18 are calculated corresponding to the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 of the speed difference DMC (difference between electromotor velocity RM and camshaft speed RC) of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts.This loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 is the torque that the result consumed as the frictional loss in the variable valve timing apparatus 18.On basis, the figure of the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 shown in Fig. 7 is set with respect to the variation characteristic of the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 of the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts.

After this, processing enters step 207, and the loss torque TB on camshaft 16 ends and the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 are added to required torque TAreq go up so that obtain electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required required motor torque TMreq of required electromotor velocity RMreq, shown in equation (4).

TMreq＝TAreq+TB+TC ...(4)

After this, handle entering step 208, and, convert required motor torque TMreq to required motor voltage VD by figure or the like.After this, handle and enter step 209, and figure or the numerical expression of utilizing the counterelectromotive force E of the motor 26 shown in Fig. 8, counterelectromotive force E calculated corresponding to the motor 26 of electromotor velocity RM.On basis, the figure of the counterelectromotive force E of motor shown in Figure 8 26 is set with respect to the variation characteristic of the counterelectromotive force E of the motor 26 of electromotor velocity RM.

Then, in following step 210, counterelectromotive force E is added to required motor voltage VD upward applies voltage VM, shown in equation (5) so that obtain that electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required motor of required electromotor velocity RMreq.

VM＝VD+E ...(5)

By above-mentioned processing, when the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT during greater than predetermined value, required electromotor velocity RMreq is arranged to by required speed difference DMCreq being added to the value that camshaft speed RC obtains, and calculates and electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required motor of required electromotor velocity RMreq (the required speed difference DMCreq of=camshaft speed RC+) apply voltage VM.By this mode, the speed of feedforward control motor 26 is so that make motor 26 and the speed difference DMC of 16 of camshafts and required speed difference DMCreq coupling, and, actual valve timing VT is changed on the direction of target VTtg valve timing with good responsiveness.

And drop on when being lower than predetermined value when the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT, required electromotor velocity RMreq is arranged to camshaft speed RC and calculates electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required motor of required electromotor velocity RMreq (=camshaft speed RC) apply voltage VM.In this way, the rotation of control motor 26 is so that make motor 26 and the speed difference DMC of 16 of camshafts is 0, and actual valve timing VT stably remained on or near target VTtg valve timing.In this way, motoring that can good accuracy controls to target valve timing with the actual valve timing, and can improve the valve timing control validity.

Simultaneously, the concentric external gear 22 of placing and driving by the rotation driving power rotation of crankshaft 12 of this first embodiment's variable valve timing apparatus 18 usefulness and camshaft 16, be sent to internal gear 23 with camshaft 16 integrally rotated internal gears 23, with the rotary power of external gear 22 and change the planetary pinion 24 of relative rotatable phase of 22,23 of gears and motor 26 that edge and camshaft 16 concentric circular tracks rotate this planetary pinion 24 constitutes.Therefore, needn't do as a whole rotation by motor 26, and the inertia weight that can make the rotary system of variable valve timing apparatus 18 lightens and passes through fixed connection apparatus, motor 26 is directly connected on the external cable, generally speaking, can improve the durability of variable valve timing apparatus 18.In addition, the structure of variable valve timing apparatus 18 is simple relatively, and the demand that can satisfy cost minimization.

Now, the output of motor 26 consumes the driving loss for frictional loss in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 and camshaft 16 ends.Since this, with the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts control to the required motor control value (for example motor applies voltage) of required speed difference DMCreq with in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 and the loss of the driving on camshaft 16 ends change.Simultaneously, because when motor 26 rotation, the counterelectromotive force in the motor 26 improves, the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts is controlled to the required motor control value of required speed difference DMCreq also change with the counterelectromotive force of motor 26.

According to these situations, in first embodiment, the loss transdetermination TC that use is consumed by the frictional loss in the variable valve timing apparatus 18, the loss torque TB that consumes by the loss of the driving in camshaft 16 ends, and the counterelectromotive force E of motor 26, the calculating motor controlling value.And because in the calculating of the motor control value that is similar to this, consider in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 and camshaft 16 ends on the change of driving loss and the change of the counterelectromotive force of motor 26, can control to the required motor control value of required speed difference DMCreq with the speed difference DMC that good accuracy is calculated 16 of motor 26 and camshafts, and not influence the frictional loss that suffers thus and counterelectromotive force etc.

Simultaneously, in first embodiment,, limit and change speed Vreq required valve timing, can prevent the fault and the loss of the variable valve timing apparatus 18 that causes by unexpected operation because by hump speed Vs.

(second embodiment)

The motor control value computer program of carrying out in the second embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 9 is by will changing over the program that processing obtained of step 206a and 209a in the processing of the step 206 of the Fig. 4 described in first embodiment and step 209 respectively, and the processing of other steps is identical with Fig. 4.

In aforesaid first embodiment, in the step 206 of Fig. 4, loss torque TC in the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus 18 of speed difference DMC (difference between electromotor velocity RM and camshaft speed RC) that calculating and motor 26 and camshaft are 16, and in step 209, calculate counterelectromotive force E with the corresponding to motor 26 of electromotor velocity M.Yet, in this second embodiment, in the step 206a of Fig. 9, loss torque TC in the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus 18 of required speed difference DMCreq (difference between required electromotor velocity RMreq and camshaft speed RC) that calculating and motor 26 and camshaft are 16, and in step 209a, calculate counterelectromotive force E with the corresponding to motor 26 of required electromotor velocity Rmreq.

In this case, because the ground that can feedover calculates the loss torque TC of the variable valve timing apparatus 18 that is used for the calculating motor controlling value and the counterelectromotive force E of motor 26, can improve the responsiveness of motor Spin Control.In this way, even under the operational condition of flip-flop engine speed (camshaft speed RC), such as contest, can the good response degree, make electromotor velocity RM follow the change of camshaft speed RC.

(the 3rd implementation column)

Then, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.Use Figure 10 to Figure 12, as shown in figure 12, when electromotor velocity RM changed, the counterelectromotive force E of motor 26 changed and effective voltage (difference between cell voltage and counterelectromotive force) changes.And the effective voltage of the effective voltage when electromotor velocity RM is just increasing when being different from electromotor velocity RM and just reducing.

In the 3rd embodiment, by the motor control value computer program shown in the Figure 10 that is just carrying out, the duty ratio value that will be used to carry out to the duty control of the power supply of motor 26 is calculated as the motor control value.In this duty control,, regulate the pulse width of supply voltage and the supply of adjusting to the power of motor 26 by regulating the duty ratio value (excitation speed) of supply voltage.In this case, even when duty ratio value is identical, when effective voltage (difference between cell voltage and counterelectromotive force E) change, the amplitude of supply voltage pulse changes, and therefore, correspondingly changes to the power supply of motor 26.

Therefore, in the 3rd embodiment,, be increase or reduce, proofread and correct duty ratio value according to electromotor velocity RM and its by the motor control value computer program shown in the Figure 10 that is just carrying out.In this way, can proofread and correct duty ratio value so that allow effective voltage is just to increase or reduce and change with electromotor velocity RM and its.

Motor control value computer program shown in Figure 10 is by will changing over the processing of step 208b to 210b in step 208 to 210 the processing of the Fig. 4 described in first embodiment, and the identical program that obtains with Fig. 4 of the processing of other steps.

In this program, in step 207, calculate electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required required motor torque TMreq of required electromotor velocity RMreq.After this, handle and enter step 208b and use figure or the like, convert required motor torque TMreq to required duty ratio value DDuty.

After this, processing enters step 209b, and use the figure or the numerical expression that are used for when electromotor velocity increases and work as the effective voltage correction factor K that electromotor velocity reduces as Figure 11 (a) and (b), calculating is the effective voltage correction factor K that is just increasing or reducing corresponding to electromotor velocity RM with it.

As shown in figure 12, when electromotor velocity just increased, electromotor velocity RM was fast more, and effective voltage (difference between cell voltage and counterelectromotive force) is more little, and when electromotor velocity reduced, electromotor velocity RM was slow more, and effective voltage is more little.Because this is provided with shown in Figure 11 (a), be used for the figure of the effective voltage correction factor K when electromotor velocity just increases so that make effective voltage correction factor K become bigger, and make final duty ratio value Duty bigger, electromotor velocity RM is faster.And be provided with shown in Figure 11 (b), being used for the figure of the effective voltage correction factor K when electromotor velocity reduces so that make effective voltage correction factor K bigger and make final duty ratio value Duty bigger, electromotor velocity RM is slower.

After calculating effective voltage correction factor K, processing enters step 210b, and, proofread and correct required duty ratio value DDuty by effective voltage correction factor K, shown in equation (6), electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required final duty ratio value Duty of required electromotor velocity RMreq so that obtain.

Duty＝DDuty×K ...(6)

In above-mentioned the 3rd embodiment, be just to increase or reduce consistently with electromotor velocity RM and its, proofread and correct duty ratio value.Therefore, duty ratio value can be proofreaied and correct and the pulse width of supply voltage to be corrected to permission be to increase or reduce with electromotor velocity RM and its, effective voltage changes and the amplitude change of supply voltage pulse.Therefore, by the pulse width of calibration power supply voltage, can compensate the variation of the power supply that the amplitude variations by the supply voltage pulse causes.In this way, can carry out stable motor Spin Control, not suffering with electromotor velocity RM and its is any influence of the effective voltage variation that just increasing or is reducing.

(the 4th embodiment)

In above-mentioned first embodiment, required speed difference DMCreq is added to camshaft speed RC goes up, and the calculating motor controlling value is so that control to required electromotor velocity RMreq with electromotor velocity RM so that obtain required electromotor velocity RMreq.About this, in the fourth embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 13, calculating is used for electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the basic controlling value of the basic electromotor velocity RMbase identical with camshaft speed RC, calculating is with respect to basic electromotor velocity RMbase, electromotor velocity RM is changed the variation controlling value of required speed difference DMCreq, and on the basis of basic controlling value and variation controlling value, the calculating motor controlling value.

In the motor control value computer program of in the 4th embodiment, carrying out shown in Figure 13, at first,, determine whether the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT is equal to or less than predetermined value in step 301.If this deviation D is equal to or less than predetermined value, handle and enter step 302 and the required torque TAreq that resets, loss torque difference Δ TB, loss torque TC and counterelectromotive force difference Δ E, this is further described below, before entering step 307, be 0.

On the other hand, when in step 301, when determining that deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT is greater than predetermined value, handle entering step 303.In step 303, use figure or the numerical expression of required torque TAreq shown in Figure 5, calculate required torque TAreq corresponding to required speed difference DMCreq (difference between required electromotor velocity RMreq and camshaft speed RC).After this, processing enters step 304, if and it is fringe time (time when camshaft speed RC is just changing), use figure or the numerical expression of the loss torque TB of camshaft 16 ends shown in Figure 6, calculate loss torque difference Δ TB corresponding to camshaft 16 ends of camshaft speed difference Δ RC.

After this, processing enters step 305, and figure or the numerical expression of using the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus shown in Figure 7 18, calculate corresponding to the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 of the speed difference DMC (the poor DMC between electromotor velocity RM and camshaft speed RC) of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts.Then,, use figure or the numerical expression of the counterelectromotive force E of motor 26 shown in Figure 8, calculate counterelectromotive force difference Δ E corresponding to the motor 26 of electromotor velocity difference Δ RM (the basic electromotor velocity RMbase of electromotor velocity RM-) in step 306.

The counterelectromotive force difference Δ E of the loss torque difference Δ TB of required torque TAreq, camshaft 16 ends, the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 and motor 26 is configured for respect to basic electromotor velocity RMbase (=camshaft speed RC), by electromotor velocity RM being changed the variation controlling value of required speed difference DMCreq.

After this, handle and enter step 307, and figure or the numerical expression of using the loss torque TB of camshaft shown in Figure 6 16 ends, loss torque TB calculated corresponding to camshaft 16 ends of camshaft speed RC.In step 308, use figure or the numerical expression of the counterelectromotive force E of motor 26 shown in Figure 8, calculate basic counterelectromotive force Ebase corresponding to the motor 26 of basic electromotor velocity RMbase (=camshaft speed RC).The basic counterelectromotive force Ebase of the loss torque TB of camshaft 16 ends and motor 26 is configured for electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the basic controlling value of basic electromotor velocity RMbase (=camshaft speed RC).

In following step 309, as described in the equation (7), the loss torque TB and the loss torque TC in loss torque difference Δ TB and the variable valve timing apparatus 18 of camshaft 16 ends is added to required torque TAreq to obtain that electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required required motor torque TMreq of required electromotor velocity RMreq.

TMreq＝TAreq+TB+ΔTB+TC ...(7)

After this, processing enters step 310 and uses and converts required motor torque TMreq to figure of required motor voltage VD or the like.In step 311, shown in equation (8), basic counterelectromotive force Ebase and counterelectromotive force difference Δ E are added to required motor voltage VD apply voltage VM so that obtain that electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required motor of required electromotor velocity RMreq.

VM＝VD+Ebase+ΔE ...(8)

By above-mentioned processing, when the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT becomes greater than predetermined value, on the basis of basic controlling value (TAreq, Δ TB, TC and Δ E), calculating motor applies voltage VM, be used for electromotor velocity RM being controlled to basic electromotor velocity RMbase (=camshaft speed RC) and, electromotor velocity RM being changed the variation controlling value (TB, Ebase) of required speed difference DMCreq with respect to basic electromotor velocity RMbase.In this way, speed that can feedforward control motor 26 is so that make motor 26 and the speed difference DMC and the required speed difference DMCreq coupling of 16 of camshafts, therefore, and with the good response degree, on the direction of target VTtg valve timing, change actual valve timing VT.

And drop to when being lower than predetermined value when the deviation D between target VTtg valve timing and actual valve timing VT, calculate and be used for that electromotor velocity RM is controlled to the required motor of basic electromotor velocity RMbase (=camshaft speed RC) and apply voltage VM.In this way, the speed of control motor 26 so as to make motor 26 and the speed difference DMC of 16 of camshafts be 0 and make actual valve timing VT stable remain on target VTtg valve timing place or about.In this way, can good accuracy, by motoring, the actual valve timing is controlled to target valve timing, and improve the valve timing control validity.

(the 5th embodiment)

The motor control value computer program of carrying out in the fifth embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 14 is by will changing over the processing of step 305a and 306a in the processing of the step 305 of the Figure 13 described in above-mentioned the 4th embodiment and step 306 respectively, and the identical program that obtains with Figure 13 of the processing of other steps.

In above-mentioned the 4th embodiment, in the step 305 of Figure 13, loss torque TC in the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus 18 of speed difference DMC (difference between electromotor velocity RM and camshaft speed RC) that calculating and motor 26 and camshaft are 16, and in following step 306, calculate and electromotor velocity difference Δ RM (the basic electromotor velocity RMbase of electromotor velocity RM-) the counterelectromotive force difference Δ E of corresponding to motor 26.About this, in the 5th embodiment, in the step 305a of Figure 14, the loss torque TC in the corresponding to variable valve timing apparatus 18 of required speed difference DMCreq (difference between required electromotor velocity RMreq and camshaft speed RC) that calculating and motor 26 and camshaft are 16.And in following step 306a, calculate counterelectromotive force difference Δ E with the corresponding to motor 26 of required electromotor velocity difference Δ RMreq (the basic electromotor velocity RMbase of required electromotor velocity RMreq-).

In this way, the counterelectromotive force difference Δ E that can feedover and calculate the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18 and be used in the motor in the calculating of calculating motor controlling value.Therefore, can improve the responsiveness of motor Spin Control and can obtain identical effect with aforementioned second embodiment.

Now,, motor is applied voltmeter can be regarded as and be the motor control value, in addition, duty ratio value can be calculated as the motor control value although in the 4th and the 5th embodiment.And in this case, as in the 3rd embodiment, electromotor velocity with and be just increasing or the basis that reduces on, proofread and correct duty ratio value.

Although and in first to the 5th embodiment, limiting value (velocity limit Vs) is set on change valve timing rate, in addition, limiting value can be positioned on the speed difference of 16 of motor 26 and camshafts or on the electromotor velocity.In addition, the operating condition (for example, engine speed, cooling water temperature, charge air flow, load or the like) of these limiting values and motor is consistently changed.

Simultaneously, with respect to the desired value of valve timing and valve timing variance ratio convergent state the basis on, revise the motor control value or be used in Control Parameter (the counterelectromotive force E of the loss torque TB of required torque TAreq, camshaft 16 ends, the loss torque TC in the variable valve timing apparatus 18, motor 26, effective voltage correction factor K or the like) in the calculating motor controlling value, and can learn these correction result.And on the basis of these correction results, can revise the figure and/or the numerical expression that are used in the compute control parameter.

(the 6th embodiment)

Then, the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

At present the many variable valve timing apparatus that use are by changing with respect to the rotatable phase of the camshaft of the crankshaft of internal-combustion engine (hereinafter, be called " camshaft phase "), the intake valve that change is driven or the valve timing of exhaust valve are to open and close by camshaft.At this moment, as the method that is used to detect actual valve timing (actual camshaft phase), for example, as disclosed in JP-A-2001-355462, exist at interval with predetermined crank angle, from the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor output and at interval, from the basis of the cam angle signal of cam angle sensor output, calculate a kind of method of actual valve timing with predetermined cam angle.

Yet,,, can not calculate the actual valve timing from exporting a cam angle signal (that is, on the interval of output cam angle signal not) to the interval of the next cam angle signal of output with this valve timing of the computational methods of prior art.Therefore, although exist in fact, the actual valve timing changes continuously, only can upgrade the calculated value of actual valve timing set by step, and the defective that makes the validity reduction respective amount of Variable Valve Time control.

Given this, the 6th embodiment's purpose provides the variable valve timing apparatus of internal-combustion engine, by this equipment, even in interim of output cam angle signal not, also can calculate the actual valve timing, so that can increase the Variable Valve Time control accuracy.

At first, outline is according to the variable valve timing control device of the 6th embodiment's internal-combustion engine.Have with concentric first rotary component of placing and driving by rotation driving power rotation of camshaft, with integrally rotated second rotary component of camshaft, rotary power is sent to second rotary component and with respect to first rotary component, changes the phase change parts of the rotatable phase of second rotary component from first rotary component according to the 6th embodiment's variable valve timing apparatus from crankshaft; And with the concentric placement of camshaft so that control the motor of the rotatable phase of these phase change parts, and be configured to when not changing valve timing, the speeds match that makes the speed of motor and camshaft is so that make the rotational speed of phase change parts and the speeds match of camshaft, therefore keep the difference of the rotatable phase between first rotary component and second rotary component to keep stable, therefore, keep camshaft phase stable, and when changing valve timing, speed with respect to camshaft, the speed that changes motor is so that with respect to the speed of camshaft, change the rotational speed of phase change parts, thereby change the difference of the rotatable phase between first rotary component and second rotary component, thereby change camshaft phase.In this structure, because concerning motor, needn't whole rotate, the inertia weight of the rotary system of variable valve timing apparatus is lightened and pass through fixed connection apparatus, motor is directly connected on the external cable, and generally speaking, can improve the durability of variable valve timing apparatus.In addition, the structure of variable valve timing apparatus is simple relatively, and the demand that can satisfy cost minimization.

Simultaneously, by speed, change the speed of motor with respect to camshaft, change in the variable valve timing apparatus of valve timing, as in the 6th embodiment, and the difference between electromotor velocity and camshaft speed consistently, changes and change (camshaft phase variation) valve timing.Because this can be on the basis of the difference of the speed of the speed of motor and camshaft, calculate and change valve timing.

Focus on this point, in the 6th embodiment, during at every turn from cam angle sensor output cam angle signal, at the cam angle signal with from the basis of the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor output, the actual valve timing when calculating the output cam angle signal; With the predetermined computation cycle, on the basis of the difference between electromotor velocity and camshaft speed, calculate variation valve timing; And,, on the basis of actual valve timing, calculate final actual valve timing at the output cam angle signal with when changing valve timing with the predetermined computation cycle.

Especially, by the value that changes and add up this calculating the valve timing of calculating every computing cycle, during each output cam angle signal, the aggregate-value that resets and change valve timing, and on the calculated value of the actual valve timing of the aggregate-value that changes in valve timing that will be following closely when being added to nearest output cam angle signal, can obtain last actual timing.

Even because the interval when output cam angle signal not the time, can calculate and change the valve timing of on the basis of the difference between electromotor velocity and camshaft speed, calculating, if in the interval of output cam angle signal not, calculating has changed the valve timing since the nearest output cam angle signal, change the valve timing by will be following closely in the actual valve timing that is added to when output cam angle signal recently, can accurately obtain final actual valve timing.In this way,, also can calculate the actual valve timing continuously in good accuracy ground even in the interval when output cam angle signal not the time, and the validity that can increase Variable Valve Time control.

Now, although can imagine on the basis in output cycle of cam angle signal, the camshaft speed that calculating is used in calculating variation valve timing, because usually the output number of times of the each rotating cam angle signal of camshaft is very little, be difficult to from the output cycle detection of cam angle signal fluctuation with the camshaft speed of the combustion stroke fluctuation of each cylinder.On the other hand, because quantity,, can detect fluctuation with the crankshaft speed of the combustion stroke fluctuation of each cylinder if use crank angle signal from the quantity of the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor output much larger than the cam angle signal.

Therefore, in view of per two revolutions of crankshaft, camshaft rotation relation once, 1/2 value of the crankshaft speed that can detect on the basis in output cycle of the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor is used as the camshaft speed data.If do like this, can use than the accurate more camshaft speed when from the camshaft speed of smaller amounts cam angle input, calculate variation valve timing, and can improve actual valve timing counting accuracy.

When stopping internal-combustion engine, because camshaft speed is 0, be added on the calculated value of the actual valve timing when motor stops by the aggregate-value that changes valve timing subsequently, can obtain last actual valve timing, or, obtain final actual valve timing by the aggregate-value that change the valve timing from the reference position.In this way,, also can calculate the actual valve timing with good accuracy even when internal-combustion engine stops, even and when stopping internal-combustion engine, the actual valve timing can be controlled to a desired value.Even and the actual valve timing when motor stops not to be when knowing, the aggregate-value that change the valve timings by (for example maximum position, angle that lags behind) or the reference position detected by other devices from the mechanical reference position can calculate the actual valve timing.

Simultaneously, consider when the cam angle sensor fault, the cam angle signal stops output, when the cam angle sensor fault, can be by will be before fault, the aggregate-value addition of the calculated value of the actual valve timing during last output angle signal and variation valve timing after this obtains final actual valve timing, or, can obtain last actual valve timing by the aggregate-value that change the valve timing from the reference position.In this way,, can calculate the actual valve timing with good accuracy ground even when the cam angle sensor fault, even and when the cam angle sensor fault, also the actual valve timing can be controlled to desired value.Simultaneously, when the actual valve timing before the cam angle sensor fault is not known, the aggregate-value that change the valve timings by (for example maximum lag behind position, angle) or the reference position detected by other devices from the mechanical reference position can calculate the actual valve timing.

Now, will on the basis of accompanying drawing, describe variable valve timing control device in detail according to the 6th embodiment., therefore will no longer describe with identical shown in Fig. 1 and 2 according to the system architecture of the 6th embodiment's variable valve timing control device.

ECU30 in the 6th embodiment is by carrying out Variable Valve Time control program (not shown), and feedback control variable valve timing apparatus 18 is so that make the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing of intake valve.

At this moment, by carrying out Figure 15 to actual valve timing computer program shown in Figure 17, ECU30 calculates the actual valve timing VTC when sensor is exported from the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor 20 output with from the basis of the cam angle signal of cam angle sensor 19 outputs.Simultaneously, on the basis of the difference between the camshaft speed RC of the electromotor velocity RM of motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16, calculate changes delta VT valve timing.And changes delta VT valve timing by will be subsequently is added on the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal, obtains final actual valve timing VT.

After connecting the ignition switch (not shown), on predetermined periodic intervals, carry out Figure 15 to actual valve timing computer program shown in Figure 17.When beginning this program, at first, in 401, determine whether motor just turns round, for example, whether be on 0 the basis from the engine speed of the output cycle calculating of the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor 20 output.

Just turn round if determine motor, handle entering step 402, and on the basis of the fault diagnosis result of cam angle sensor fault diagnostic program (not shown), determine whether cam angle sensor 19 is normal.When this result determines cam angle sensor 19 just often (fault-free), handle to enter step 403 and determine whether to import the cam angle signal of exporting from cam angle sensor 19.

When determining the input cam angle signal, handle and enter step 404, and Tcam input time of cam angle signal is stored in the storage (not shown) of ECU30.After this, handle to enter step 405, and will after this, Tcrk input time of the crank angle signal that will export from crank angle sensor 20 is stored in the storage immediately.

After this, handle entering step 406 and user's formula (9), calculate time difference TVT with respect to the cam angle signal of crank angle signal.

TVT＝Tcrk-Tcam+K ...(9)

Wherein, K is the correcting value that is used for the response lag difference of 20 of correction cam angle transducer 19 and crank angle sensors.

Then, in following step 407, use time difference TVT,, calculate rotatable phase VTB with respect to the cam angle signal of crank angle signal according to equation (10) with respect to the cam angle signal of crank angle signal.

VTB＝TVT/T120×120°CA ...(10)

Wherein, T120 is that crankshaft 12 rotates through 120 ° of times that CA is required, and calculates on the basis of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20.

After this, handle and to enter step 408 and determine whether valve timing control to the reference position (for example, the position, angle of maximum hysteresis).If be positioned at the reference position valve timing, processing enters step 409 and before entering step 410, will be with respect to current rotatable phase (camshaft phase) the VTB study of the cam angle signal of crank angle signal for reference position (reference cam axle phase place) VTBK, shown in equation (11) with respect to the rotatable phase of the inlet end camshaft 16 of crankshaft 12.

VTBK＝VTB ...(11)

On the other hand, when in step 408, when determining that be not positioned at the reference position valve timing, handle and enter step 410, and the study of the reference position of execution in step 409 is not handled.In step 410, as equation (12), use current rotatable phase VTB and reference position VTBK with respect to the cam angle signal of crank angle signal, calculate rotatable phase VTC based on the cam angle signal of reference position VTBK.This becomes the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal.

VTC＝VTB-VTBK ...(12)

The task of the processing execution cam angle signal output time valve timing computing device of step 403 to 410, and on the basis of the crank angle signal when cam angle signal and each input (output) cam angle signal, the actual valve timing VTC when calculating the output cam angle signal.

After this, processing enters step 411, and when calculating the actual valve timing VTC in cam angle signal when output at every turn, to after a while changes delta VTH valve timing, the Δ VTS that further describes be reset to 0, after this, processing enters step 419 and user's formula (13), calculates final actual valve timing VT.

VT＝VTC+ΔVTH+ΔVTS ...(13)

Therefore, when input (output) cam angle signal, because as the reset processing result of step 411, Δ VTH=0 and Δ VTS=0, VT=VTC.

When on the other hand, in step 403, when determining not the input cam angle signal, handle the step 412 that enters Figure 16, and the electromotor velocity RM[rpm of calculating motor 26] and the camshaft speed RC[rpm of inlet end camshaft 16] between speed difference DMC[rpm], shown in equation (14).

DMC＝RM-RC ...(14)

In this case, camshaft speed RC as inlet end camshaft 16, shown in equation (15), 1/2 value of the speed (engine speed) of the crankshaft 12 that use is calculated on the basis in the output cycle of the crank angle signal of exporting from crank angle sensor 20.

Camshaft speed RC=crankshaft speed * 1/2 .... (15)

After this, handle enter step 413 and according to equation (16), with speed difference DMC[rpm] convert per second rotation poor [rev/s] to.

RVT＝DMC/60 ...(16)

Then, in following step 414, user's formula (17) is calculated the computing cycle P[s of per valve timing of changes delta VTH] change valve timing in (this program implementation cycle) dVTH.

dVTH＝RVT/G×720°CA×P ...(17)

Wherein, G is the reduction speed ratio of phase change mechanism 21, and is with respect to the relative speed of the motor 26 of inlet end camshaft 16 and changes the ratio of (camshaft phase variation) valve timing.

After this, processing enters step 415 and by changing dVTH the valve timing that adds up every computing cycle P, calculates changes delta VTH valve timing, shown in equation (18).

ΔVTH＝ΔVTH+dVTH ...(18)

The task of the processing execution valve timing change calculations device of these steps 412 to 415, and by on the interval of input cam angle signal not, change dVTH the valve timing of the every computing cycle of accumulative total, obtains changes delta VTH valve timing after the nearest output of cam angle signal.

Simultaneously,, carry out the processing of these steps 412 to 415, determine that cam angle sensor 19 has been out of order even in the step 402 of Figure 15.That is, when cam angle sensor 19 during fault, change dVTH the valve timing of the every computing cycle P of accumulative total, so as to obtain before cam angle sensor 19 faults the cam angle signal output to present changes delta VTH valve timing for the last time.

After calculating changes delta VTH valve timing, handle the step 419 that enters Figure 15, and use aforesaid equation (13), calculate last actual valve timing VT.When cam angle sensor 19 is out of order, because Δ VTS=0, therefore, VT=VTC+ Δ VTH.

On the other hand, when in step 401, when determining shutting engine down, handle the step 416 that enters Figure 17.In step 416, only use the electromotor velocity RM[rpm of motor 26], calculate per second rotation difference RVT[rev/s], shown in equation (19).

RVT＝RM/60 ...(19)

After this, handle enter step 417 and, to calculate each computing cycle P[s of changes delta VTS valve timing according to equation (20)] change valve timing of (being this program implementation cycle) dVTS.

dVTS＝RVT/G×720°CA×P ...(20)

Wherein, G is the reduction speed ratio of phase change mechanism 21.

After this, handle change dVTS the valve timing enter step 418 and the every computing cycle P of accumulative total in case obtain before stop the cam angle signal output to present changes delta VTS valve timing for the last time.

ΔVTS＝ΔVTS+dVTS ...(21)

These steps 416 are also carried out the task of change calculations device valve timing to 418 processing.

After calculating changes delta VTS valve timing, handle the step 419 that enters Figure 15 and use aforesaid equation (13), calculate last actual valve timing VT.Wherein, because when motor stops, Δ VTH=0, so VT=VTC+ Δ VTS.The task of the processing execution of this step 419 last valve timing of computing device.

By above-mentioned processing, each in engine running, during the input cam angle signal, on the basis of cam angle signal and crank angle signal, calculate the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal.And when input (output) cam angle signal because pass through the reset processing of step 411, make valve timing changes delta VTH and Δ VTS be reset to 0, the actual valve timing VTC when output cam angle signal itself becomes last actual valve timing VT.

On the other hand, in the interval of input cam angle signal not, on the basis of the speed difference DMC of 16 of motor 26 and inlet end camshafts, calculate and change valve timing of the every computing cycle of accumulative total dVTH.And changes delta VTH valve timing (aggregate-value of dVTH) by will be after this is added on the actual valve timing VTC when output cam angle signal recently, obtains last actual valve timing VT.In this way, can in the interval of input cam angle signal not, also can good accuracy calculate actual valve timing VT continuously even become, and the validity that can increase Variable Valve Time control.

And when motor stopped, changes delta VTS valve timing by will be after this was added to before stopping, and on the actual valve timing VTC during the output cam angle signal, obtained last actual valve timing VT the last time.Therefore, even when motor stops, can calculate actual valve timing VT and actual valve timing VT can be controlled to desired value with good accuracy ground.

And when cam angle sensor 19 was out of order, changes delta VTH valve timing by will be after this was added to before fault, on the actual valve timing VTC during last output cam angle signal, obtained last actual valve timing VT.Therefore, even when cam angle sensor 19 faults, also can calculate actual valve timing VT and actual valve timing VT can be controlled to desired value with good accuracy.

Replacedly, stop or during cam angle sensor 19 faults at motor, the aggregate-value that can pass through from mechanical reference position (for example maximum position, angle that lags behind) or come to change the free valve timing that other install the reference position of detecting calculates the actual valve timing.

(the 7th embodiment)

Then, the 7th embodiment will be described.In above-mentioned the 6th embodiment, on the basis of the camshaft speed RC of the electromotor velocity RM of motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16, calculate changes delta VT valve timing, and changes delta VT valve timing by will be after this is added on the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal, obtains last actual valve timing VT.

About this, in the 7th embodiment, on the basis of the variation in the variation in the angle of rotation of motor 26 and the angle of swing of camshaft, difference between the electromotor velocity RM of calculating motor 26 and the camshaft speed RC of inlet end camshaft 16 (changes delta VT valve timing), and changes delta VT valve timing by will be after this is added on the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal, obtains last valve timing.

Now, use the flow chart of Figure 18 and Figure 19, be described on the basis of variation of angle of rotation of the variation of angle of rotation of motor 26 and camshaft, calculate the 7th embodiment of changes delta VT valve timing.Figure 18 represents to replace being used to calculate during the engine running of the Figure 16 described in the 6th embodiment, valve timing changes delta VTH processing, performed processing.And Figure 19 represent to replace Figure 17 be used for the calculation engine stopping period valve timing changes delta VTS processing, performed processing.In the 7th embodiment, carry out the processing shown in the flow chart of the Figure 15 in the 6th embodiment with identical mode.

The flow chart of Figure 18 at first, is described.Figure 18 is used to calculate in engine running, the processing of the actual valve timing behind the input cam angle signal.In this was handled, relatively the motor angle of rotation changed and the variation of camshaft angle of rotation.For motor angle of rotation relatively changes and the camshaft angle of rotation changes, in the 7th embodiment, between the count value of motor angle signal output counter and the count value in the crankshaft angular signal output counter, compare.

Wherein, the reason of use crank angle signal rather than use camshaft signal is reduction speed ratio connecting crank axle and the camshaft with 1/2, and except that can passing through use crank angle signal derivation cam angle signal, the quantity of crankshaft pulse is greater than the quantity of camshaft pulse usually.Because this by using crank angle signal rather than using the cam angle signal, can obtain the variation in the camshaft angle of rotation more accurately.

In this embodiment,, 36 crankshaft pulses are arranged, and the pulse that is actually used in the calculating is with 30 ° of CA pulse at interval with the interval of 10 ° of CA.That is, use 12 pulses.On the other hand, to motor 26, use pulse at interval with 30 ° of CA.

Yet, 1/2 deceleration is arranged between camshaft and crankshaft.Therefore, at first, in step 420, for example, the count value of crank angle signal is corrected to 1/2 so that make the variation angle of each counting of count value of the count value at angle of motor 26 and crank angle signal identical.The count value of angle that therefore, can be by doubling correcting motor 26.In this way, it is identical that the angle of a count value of two counters is changed, and handle and enter step 421.

In step 421, calculate the variation of crankangle.In fact, from time of previous calculating to the basis of the count value of the crank angle signal of the time counting of current calculating, calculate and change in (the degree in crank angle counter of the variation of degree in crank angle counter=when this calculates-when calculating the last time degree in crank angle counter).

Then, handle the variation that enters the angle in step 422 and the calculating motor 26.In fact, from time of previous calculating to the basis of the count value of the angle signal of the motor 26 of the time counting of current calculating, calculate and change in (the motor angle counter of the variation of motor angle counter=when this calculates-when calculating for the last time motor angle counter).

Then, in following step 423, calculate the difference between the variation of the variation of degree in crank angle counter and motor angle counter, and in step 424, the motor angle that calculates with respect to camshaft changes.Especially, in step 424, use is by the equation of " motor angle with respect to camshaft changes=(variation of the variation of motor angle counter-degree in crank angle counter) * per 1 angle of counting " expression, and the motor angle that calculates with respect to camshaft changes.

Then, in step 425, by the reduction speed ratio 1/G of change valve timing portion, the motor angle of proofreading and correct with respect to camshaft changes, and changes dVTH (changing the motor angle variation/G (reduction speed ratio) of dVTH=with respect to camshaft valve timing) valve timing of calculating every computing cycle.Wherein, G is the reduction speed ratio of the phase change mechanism 21 of variable valve timing apparatus 18, and is with respect to the relative speed of the motor 26 of inlet end camshaft 16 and changes the ratio of (camshaft phase variation) valve timing.

After this, handle entering step 426, and by adding up from the phase place of the valve timing that calculates current calculating change for the last time, that is, change dVTH valve timing, and to previous valve timing of changes delta VTH, calculate last valve timing of changes delta VTH, shown in equation (22).

ΔVTH＝ΔVTH(i-1)+dVTH ...(22)

The task of the processing execution valve timing change calculations device of these steps 420 to 426, and calculate at changes delta VTH valve timing at the interval of input cam angle signal not.

Simultaneously, even in the step 402 of Figure 15, when determining cam angle sensor 19 faults, change dVTH the valve timing in the time of also can carrying out the processing of Figure 18 and accumulative total cam angle sensor 19 faults, thus obtain before cam angle sensor 19 faults the cam angle signal output to present changes delta VTH valve timing for the last time.In this way, even when cam angle sensor 19 faults, also can accurately calculate the actual valve timing.

After calculating changes delta VTH valve timing, handle the step 419 that enters Figure 15 and use aforesaid equation (13), calculate last actual valve timing VT.When cam angle sensor 19 faults, since Δ VTS=0, VT=VTC+ Δ VTH.

In the sequential chart of Figure 20, the processing by the flow chart of Figure 18 has been described, calculate the example of actual valve timing.In the processing shown in the flow chart of Figure 18, the angle of motor 26 change and the basis of the angle difference in change of camshaft on, changes delta VTH valve timing by will be after this is added on the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal, obtains last actual valve timing VT.Therefore, shown in the sequential chart of Figure 20, even in the interval of input cam angle signal not, also can good accuracy, calculate actual valve timing VT continuously, and can increase the Variable Valve Time control accuracy.

On the other hand, in step 401, when determining that motor stops, carrying out the processing of Figure 19 at the flow chart of Figure 15.This processing of Figure 19 is changes delta VTS valve timing that is used to calculate when shutting engine down.

At first, in step 427, the angle of calculating motor 26 changes.In fact, from the basis of previous calculating count value of the angle signal of the motor 26 of counting during, calculate this variation (the motor angle counter of the variation of motor angle counter=when this calculates-when calculating for the last time motor angle counter) up to current calculate.Then, in step 428, only pass through the variation of the motor angle of motor 26, calculate angle variation with respect to the motor 26 of camshaft.Especially, user's formula " with respect to the angle of variation * per 1 counting of the motor angle variation=motor angle counter of camshaft) calculate.

Then, in step 429, by the reduction speed ratio 1/G of change valve timing portion, the angle of proofreading and correct with respect to the motor 26 of camshaft changes, and calculates and change dVTS (changing the motor angle variation/G (reduction speed ratio) of dVTS=with respect to camshaft valve timing) valve timing.

After this, processing enters step 430, and valve timing by adding up to change to current computing time from last computing time, promptly, change dVTS valve timing, and, calculate last valve timing of changes delta VTS, shown in equation (23) up to the changes delta VTS valve timing of previous time.

ΔVTS＝ΔVTS(i-1)+dVTS ...(23)

Therefore, the task of the processing execution change calculations valve timing device shown in the flow chart of Figure 19.

After calculating changes delta VTS valve timing, handle the step 419 that enters Figure 15, and calculate last actual valve timing VT (VT=VTC+ Δ VTH+ Δ VTS).Wherein, because shutting engine down, therefore, VTH=0, and VT=VTC+ Δ VTS.The task of the processing execution of above-mentioned steps 419 last valve timing of computing device.

As mentioned above, in the processing of Figure 18, although motor just turns round, using and working as on the basis of the speed difference between motor and inlet end camshaft, calculate mode identical when changing valve timing,, calculate under the situation about changing valve timing from the comparison that the motor angle changes and camshaft angle changes, changes delta VTH valve timing by will be after this is added to and constitutes on guiding, the actual valve timing VTC when the output cam angle signal, obtains last actual valve timing VT.In this way, even in the interval of output cam angle signal not, also can calculate actual valve timing VT continuously with good accuracy, and the validity that can increase Variable Valve Time control.

And when motor stopped, changes delta VTS valve timing by will be after this was added to before stopping, and on the actual valve timing VTC during the output cam angle signal, obtained last actual valve timing VT the last time.Therefore,, also can calculate actual valve timing VT with good accuracy even when motor stops, even and motor when stopping, actual valve timing VT can be controlled to desired value.

Simultaneously, when cam angle sensor 19 faults, changes delta VTH valve timing by will be after this is added to before fault, on the actual valve timing VTC during the output cam angle signal, obtains last actual valve timing VT the last time.Therefore, even when cam angle sensor 19 faults, also can calculate actual valve timing VT and actual valve timing VT can be controlled to desired value with good accuracy.

Replacedly, stop or during cam angle sensor 19 faults at motor, can pass through to install the aggregate-value of variation valve timings of the reference position of detecting, the timing of calculating actual valve from mechanical reference position (for example maximum hysteresis angular orientation) or next free other.

And, the aforesaid the 6th and the 7th embodiment's variable valve timing apparatus 18 has and the concentric external gears 22 (first rotary component) of placing and driving by the rotation driving power rotation from crankshaft 12 of camshaft 16, with camshaft 16 integrally rotated internal gears 23 (second rotary component), to be sent to internal gear 23 from the rotary power of external gear 22 and change gear 22, the planetary pinion 24 of 23 relative rotatable phase (phase change parts), and around with the motor 26 of the concentric circular track rotation planetary pinion 24 of camshaft 16, and it is configured to when do not change valve timing, the speeds match that makes the speed of motor 26 and camshaft 16 is so that make the rotational speed of planetary pinion 24 and the speeds match of camshaft 16, thereby the rotatable phase difference that keeps 23 of external gear 22 and internal gears is stable and keep camshaft phase stable, and when change valve timing, speed with respect to camshaft 16, change the speed of motor 26, so that speed with respect to camshaft 16, change the rotational speed of planetary pinion 24, thereby change the rotatable phase difference of 23 of external gear 22 and internal gears and change camshaft phase.In this structure, because motor 26 needn't whole rotate, can alleviate the inertia weight of the rotary system of variable valve timing apparatus 18, and pass through fixed connection apparatus, motor 26 can be directly connected on the external cable, and generally speaking, can improve the durability of variable valve timing apparatus 18.In addition, the structure of variable valve timing apparatus 18 is simple relatively, and the demand that can satisfy cost minimization.

Simultaneously, although in aforementioned first embodiment to the, seven embodiments, describe the variable valve timing control device that is used for intake valve, the invention is not restricted to be used for the variable valve timing control device of intake valve, and the variable valve timing control device that replacedly is applied to exhaust valve.Simultaneously, the phase change mechanism of variable valve timing apparatus 18 is not limited to the use planetary gears as in the above-described embodiments, and replacedly, can use the phase change mechanism of some other types, and briefly, can be by speed, change the speed of motor, change any electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus of valve timing with respect to camshaft.

(the 8th embodiment)

Then, the eighth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Usually, in variable valve timing apparatus, by making the moving part of the phase change mechanism that is close to retainer, the limit position of the scope of the variation of mechanically forcing valve timing (Variable Valve Time variable range limit position).Because this, when with valve timing control near the excursion limit position of variable valve timing apparatus (maximum angular orientation or the full aduance position that lags behind) or its, the moving part undermoderated and the bump retainer of overshoot or phase change mechanism take place sometimes.Because the impact load during this bump, big load acts in the gear meshing portion of phase change mechanism, there is gear grinding and becomes locking and the risk that suffers damage of gear mechanism, and exist it to become normally to control the possibility of valve timing.

Because this, the 8th embodiment's purpose provides variable valve timing control device, by this equipment, can work as valve timing control near the excursion limit position of variable valve timing apparatus or its time, prevent the gear mechanism of grinding and damage variable valve timing apparatus, and, can improve the operational reliability of variable valve timing apparatus by this equipment.

General introduction is according to the variable valve timing control device of the 8th embodiment's internal-combustion engine at first, now.When the actual valve timing is in the set rate restricted area that is provided with near excursion limit position of variable valve timing apparatus, carries out according to the 8th embodiment's variable valve timing control device and to be used for the variable timing rate of change limit is controlled to the rate limit below the set rate.If carry out this, when the actual valve timing is in the rate-constrained district near limit position, can make the valve timing variance ratio be slowed to and be lower than predetermined value so that force the motion of the moving part of deceleration phase change mechanism.Therefore, can avoid the moving part of phase change mechanism not clash into retainer with slowing down, and can prevent grinding and damage gear mechanism.

In this case, even when the actual valve timing is arranged in the rate-constrained district, when limit position from the speed restricted area, change actual valve in the opposite direction just constantly (for example when near the angular orientation that lags behind from maximum, on the advance angle direction, change actual valve just constantly), when even change valve timing rate is big, there are not the moving part of phase change mechanism and the bump of retainer yet.Because even this when the actual valve timing is positioned at the rate-constrained district, when the limit position from the speed restricted area, goes up the change actual valve just constantly the other way around, do not need to carry out rate limit control.In this way, even when the actual valve timing is positioned at the rate-constrained district, when on a direction, changing the actual valve timing so that when the bump of the moving part of phase change mechanism and retainer does not take place, do not slow down change valve timing rate.Therefore, can make the actual valve timing promptly change to target valve timing, and the responsiveness of also guaranteeing Variable Valve Time control.

Now,, when the change valve timing rate when at the ingress rate restricted area is fast, there is the change valve timing rate of not slowing down fully, the possibility of the moving part bump retainer of phase change mechanism if the width in rate-constrained district is narrow.And if the detection error (deviation) of actual valve timing is when big, there is the change valve timing rate of not slowing down fully, the possibility of the moving part of phase change mechanism bump retainer is because detect actual valve timing evening time of ingress rate restricted area.According to these situations, be desirably in and change valve timing rate be slowed to set rate changes at required valve timing and/or the actual valve timing detects on the basis of error, the rate-constrained district is set.If carry out this, the detection sum of errors that the rate-constrained district can be arranged to have in view of the actual valve timing slows down required variation valve timing of speed, variance ratio valve timing can be decelerated to the width that is lower than set rate.In this way, can carry out the stable rate limit that does not suffer the actual valve timing to detect the influence of sum of errors variance ratio valve timing controls.In this case, at the Variable Valve Time control period, can calculate change valve timing rate (or the actual valve timing detects error), and according to this calculated value, or in advance, for example in the design phase, the rate-constrained district is set, the technician can measure or calculate with corresponding to maximum variance ratio valve timing of this value (or maximum actual valve timing detects error) and the fixed rate restricted area is set and it is stored in the storage.

Now, on the basis of accompanying drawing, describe variable valve timing control device in detail according to the 8th embodiment's internal-combustion engine.According to the system architecture of the 8th embodiment's variable valve timing control device basically with illustrated in figures 1 and 2 identical.

Yet, in the variable valve timing apparatus shown in Fig. 1 and 2 18,, moving part and retainer (both are all not shown) are set in phase change mechanism 21 for the restriction excursion (mobile range of phase change mechanism 21) of valve timing.Simultaneously, as shown in figure 21, the mobile range of phase change mechanism 21 is restricted to from the position of moving part contact retardation angle end retainer to the scope of the position of its contact advance angle end retainer, so that the excursion of restriction valve timing.In this case, the position of the moving part contact retardation angle end retainer of phase change mechanism 21 is positions, angle (retardation angle end limit position) that the maximum of phase change mechanism 21 lags behind, promptly, the maximum retardation angle position of valve timing, and the position of the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 contact advance angle end retainer is the position, angle (advance angle end limit position) that the maximum of phase change mechanism 21 shifts to an earlier date, i.e. the full aduance position of valve timing.

The variable valve timing apparatus 18 as the control target of variable valve timing apparatus according to the 8th embodiment is not limited to the structure shown in Fig. 1 and 2.That is, can be applied to have any variable valve timing apparatus of gear mechanism according to the 8th embodiment's variable valve timing control device, irrelevant with the type of its driving source and phase change mechanism.

ECU30 carry out with first embodiment in identical Variable Valve Time control program, as shown in Figure 3.Therefore, calculate required change valve timing rate Vreq so that minimize target VTtg valve timing and the deviation D between actual valve timing VT of intake valve and control the electromotor velocity RM of motor 26 so that realize this required change valve timing rate Vreq.In this way, make the actual valve timing VT and the target VTtg valve timing coupling of intake valve.

Simultaneously, ECU30 carries out the change valve timing rate limit control program shown in Figure 24, will further discuss after a while.In this way, by being provided for limiting the retardation angle rate-constrained district that is located near the setting of maximum retardation angle position as the actual valve timing VT of intake valve, or the limit rate Vs of the required change valve timing rate Vreq near the advance angle end rate-constrained district of the setting full aduance position time, carry out rate limit control.

As shown in figure 21, retardation angle end rate-constrained district is arranged on the advance angle direction from the scope of the predetermined width α [° CA] of maximum retardation angle position, and advance angle end rate-constrained district is arranged on the retardation angle direction, from the scope of the predetermined width α [° CA] of full aduance position.The width α [° CA] in these rate-constrained districts is arranged to by adding up to C[° of CA of detection error of actual valve timing VT] and be used to make change valve timing rate V to decelerate to limit rate Vs to change D[° of CA required valve timing] value of acquisition.

α＝C+D ...(24)

Because, as shown in figure 22, it is high more that engine speed NE becomes, actual valve timing VT detects error C and becomes big more, in this embodiment, detect error C as actual valve timing VT, use its maximum error amount Cmax (the detection error Cmax of the actual valve timing VT when maximum engine speed NEmax) of detection.

And because as shown in figure 23, change valve timing rate V becomes fast more, it is big more to be used for that then it is decelerated to required deviation D valve timing of hump speed V, in this embodiment, as deviation D valve timing that is used to slow down required, use its maximum value Dmax (be used for valve timing variance ratio V decelerate to hump speed Vs from maximum rate Vmax and change Dmax required valve timing).

Now, describe contents processing in detail by ECU30 change valve timing rate limit control program that carry out, shown in Figure 24.By the predetermined period after connecting ignition switch, carry out change valve timing rate limit control program shown in Figure 24.

When beginning this program, at first in step 501, determine actual valve timing VT whether in retardation angle end rate-constrained district (whether | maximum retardation angle position-VT|≤retardation angle end speed-restricted area width α).When definite actual valve timing VT is in retardation angle end rate-constrained district, handle entering step 502.In step 502, determine that target VTtg valve timing is whether the retardation angle end of actual valve timing VT (whether VTtg-VT＜0).

When the result is when determining the retardation angle end of target VTtg valve timing at actual valve timing VT, because actual valve timing VT is in the retardation angle end rate-constrained district and change on the direction as the maximum retardation angle position of the limit position in that district, determine to exist the possibility of the moving part collision retardation angle end retainer of phase change mechanism 21.In step 505,, the limit rate Vs of the required change valve timing rate Vreq of restriction is set and carries out rate limit control for preventing the grinding and the damage of gear mechanism (gear 22 to 24).

Therefore, when in above-mentioned steps 502, determine that target VTtg valve timing is positioned at the advance angle end of actual valve timing VT (VTtg-VT＞0), (on the advance angle direction) changes from the opposite direction of maximum retardation angle position because actual valve timing VT is arranged in retardation angle end rate-constrained district, determine not have the possibility of the moving part collision retardation angle end retainer of phase change mechanism 21, and handle and enter step 506.In step 506, cancel the hump speed Vs of required change valve timing rate Vreq.

When on the other hand, in above-mentioned steps 501, determine that actual valve timing VT is not arranged in retardation angle end rate-constrained district, handle entering step 503.In step 503, determine that actual valve timing VT is positioned at advance angle end rate-constrained district (full aduance position-VT≤advance angle end rate-constrained sector width α).Be arranged in advance angle end rate-constrained district if determine actual valve timing VT, handle and enter step 504, and definite target VTtg valve timing is positioned at the advance angle end (whether VTtg-VT＜0) of actual valve timing VT.

When the result is when determining that target VTtg valve timing is positioned on the advance angle end of actual valve timing VT, because actual valve timing VT is arranged in advance angle end rate-constrained district, and on direction, change as the full aduance position of the limit position in that district, determine to exist the possibility of the moving part collision advance angle end retainer of phase change mechanism 21, and handle and enter step 505.In step 505,, the hump speed Vs of the required change valve timing rate Vreq of restriction is set and carries out rate limit control for preventing the grinding and the damage of gear mechanism (gear 22 to 24).

Therefore, when in above-mentioned steps 504, when determining that target VTtg valve timing is positioned on the retardation angle end of actual valve timing VT, because actual valve timing VT is positioned at advance angle end rate-constrained district, but in (on the retardation angle direction) change from the opposite direction of full aduance position, definite possibility that does not have the moving part collision advance angle end retainer of phase change mechanism 21, and processing enters step 506.In step 506, cancel the hump speed Vs of required change valve timing rate Vreq.

By above-mentioned processing, when actual valve timing VT is positioned at when changing on retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district and the direction at its limit position, hump speed Vs is set and carries out rate limit control and be lower than limit rate Vs so that required change valve timing rate Vreq is restricted to.In this way, in retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district, can will change rate V valve timing and decelerate to hump speed Vs so that slow down the movement velocity of the moving part of phase change mechanism 21.Therefore, can avoid the moving part high velocity impact retainer of phase change mechanism 21.Therefore, can prevent gear mechanism (gear 22 to 24) grinding and damage, and the functional reliability that can increase variable valve timing apparatus 18.

On the other hand, even when actual valve timing VT is arranged in retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district, when its when the opposite direction of the limit position in that district changes, cancellation hump speed Vs and do not carry out rate limit control.In this way, even when actual valve timing VT is arranged in retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district, just on a direction, changing so that when the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 and the collision between retainer can not take place, can not carry out slowing down of change valve timing rate as actual valve timing VT.Therefore, can make actual valve timing VT change over target VTtg valve timing apace, and the responsiveness that can guarantee Variable Valve Time control.

Now, if the width α in retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district is narrow, when the change valve timing rate that enters retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district is fast, there is the change valve timing rate that slows down deficiently, the possibility of the moving part collision retainer of phase change mechanism 21.And if the detection error (deviation) of actual valve timing VT is big, under the situation of the change valve timing rate that do not slow down fully, the possibility that has the moving part bump retainer of phase change mechanism 21 is because detect evening time that actual valve timing VT has entered retardation angle end or advance angle end rate-constrained district.

Since this, in this embodiment, the value of deviation D acquisition valve timing that the width α in retardation angle end and advance angle end rate-constrained district is arranged to the detection error C by adding up to actual valve timing VT and fully slows down required.Therefore, can be arranged under the situation that does not have fault, have the retardation angle end and the advance angle end rate-constrained district that can will change valve timing rate slow to the width that is lower than preset limit rate Vs.Therefore, can carry out the stable rate limit that does not suffer actual valve VT regularly to detect the influence of sum of errors change valve timing rate controls.

The rate-constrained district of same widths can be set on the maximum retardation angle end of excursion valve timing (excursion of phase change mechanism 21) and full aduance end in this embodiment.Yet replacedly, the scope of the valve timing of using according to reality can make the width in retardation angle end rate-constrained district different with the width in advance angle end rate-constrained district, or can only on retardation angle end or advance angle end the rate-constrained district be set.

(the 9th embodiment)

Then, use Figure 25 and Figure 26, describe the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

(for example each input cam angle signal when occurring by each predetermined condition for study as the ECU30 in the 6th embodiment, or when piloting engine) at every turn, learn the reference position (for example maximum retardation angle position) of valve timing, keep the detection validity of actual valve timing VT.Therefore, when also not finishing reference position study, because the detection validity of actual valve timing VT descends (detecting error increases), if with the limit position of its excursion of valve timing control in this state or near, have the possibility of the moving part high-speed impact retainer of phase change mechanism 21.

For avoiding this, in this embodiment, ECU30, is provided with the limit rate Vs of the required change valve timing rate Vreq of restriction and carries out rate limit control when also not having when finishing reference position study by carrying out change valve timing rate limit control program shown in Figure 25 with predetermined period.

Simultaneously, ECU30 is by carrying out target computer program valve timing as shown in figure 26 with predetermined period, when carrying out Variable Valve Time control in the state that is not also finishing reference position study, according to through-rate restriction control, be restricted to the required change valve timing rate Vreq that is lower than hump speed Vs, calculate target VTtg valve timing.The contents processing of these programs will be described below.

When beginning change valve timing rate limit control program shown in Figure 25, in step 601, determine whether not finish reference position study.When determining not finish reference position study,, there is the possibility that the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 may the high velocity impact retainer because the detection validity of actual valve timing VT descends (increase and detect error).Because this handles the hump speed Vs and the control of execution rate limit that enter step 602 and the required change valve timing rate Vreq of restriction is set.

After this, begin this program, and the stage of in step 601, determining to have finished reference position study, the hump speed Vs that enters step 603 and cancel required change valve timing rate Vreq handled.

And when starting target computer program valve timing shown in Figure 26, at first, in step 701, determine whether just to carry out based on the reference position and learn uncompleted rate limit control.When determining that the positive execution speed limit is controlled, handle entering step 702, and, calculate target VTtg valve timing according to being restricted to the required change valve timing rate Vreq that is lower than hump speed Vs.Be arranged to a target valve timing so that also can not occur under the situation of the change valve timing rate that is slowing down such as the problem that misfires even will control executory target VTtg valve timing in this rate limit.

When on the other hand, when determining not carry out rate limit control, handle entering step 703 and on the basis of engine operating status or the like, calculating normal target VTtg valve timing.

In aforesaid the 9th embodiment, when also not finishing reference position when study, carry out with required valve timing variance ratio Vreq control to the rate limit control that is lower than hump speed Vs.Therefore, before finishing reference position study, when the detection validity of actual valve timing VT has descended, even when with valve timing control near the limit position of its excursion or its time, also can avoid the moving part high velocity impact retainer of phase change mechanism 21, and the grinding and the damage that can prevent gear mechanism.

Simultaneously, in the 9th embodiment,, when carrying out Variable Valve Time control, be provided with, be restricted to target VTtg valve timing of the following change valve timing rate of hump speed Vs according to through-rate restriction control when also uncompleted reference position study.Therefore, even when the change valve timing rate of slowing down, when carrying out Variable Valve Time control, also target VTtg valve timing can be set so that, remain in operation with burning quality of the motor that is maintained to a certain degree or the like with through-rate restriction control.

(the tenth embodiment)

And in above-mentioned the 9th embodiment, when also not finishing reference position study, carry out rate limit control in the district in whole valve timing, in the tenth embodiment, when also not finishing reference position study, only be arranged on the zone of predetermined value (pre-learning rate restricted area), carry out rate limit control in the difference between actual valve timing VT and limit position (maximum retardation angle position or full aduance position).

Change the rate limit control program as shown in figure 27 valve timing in this embodiment.By increasing the processing of step 601a between the processing of the step 601 of Figure 25 and step 602, and the processing of other steps is identical with Figure 25, the change valve timing rate limit control program of acquisition Figure 27.

In program shown in Figure 27,, when determining also not finish reference position study, handle entering step 601a and definite actual valve timing VT whether in predetermined pre-learning rate restricted area when in step 601.This pre-learning rate restricted area is to consider also not finish reference position study, actual valve timing VT detects the deterioration (increase and detect error) of validity, between the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 and retainer, exist collision the zone of possibility to occur, and be configured to be wider than zone (seeing Figure 21) in the rate-constrained district described in above-mentioned the 7th embodiment.

When also not finishing reference position study and determine that actual valve timing VT is arranged in pre-learning rate restricted area, can infer between the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 and retainer possibility of collision to occur.Therefore, handle hump speed Vs and the control of execution rate limit that enters step 602 and be provided for limiting required change valve timing rate Vreq.Even when actual valve timing VT is in pre-learning rate restricted area, when its when the opposite direction of each limit position changes, can cancel hump speed Vs and can not carry out rate limit control.

On the other hand, even when not finishing reference position when study, when definite actual valve timing VT is not in learning rate restricted area in advance, can infer that possibility of collision to occur between the moving part of phase change mechanism 21 and retainer very low.Therefore, handle and enter step 603, and the hump speed Vs that cancels required change valve timing rate Vreq.

In aforesaid the tenth embodiment, when also not finishing reference position study, and when actual valve timing VT is in pre-learning rate restricted area, carry out rate limit control.Therefore, when learning, in the zone of moving part that phase change mechanism 21 can not take place and the collision between retainer, under the situation that does not limit change valve timing rate in the reference position, can change actual valve timing VT apace, and can shorten and be used for the required time of reference position study.

Equally in the tenth embodiment, can carry out target computer program valve timing of Figure 26, when in the state of also not finishing reference position study, carrying out Variable Valve Time control with box lunch, be provided with according to through-rate restriction control, be restricted to target VTtg valve timing of the change valve timing rate that is lower than hump speed Vs.

(the 11 embodiment)

In the 11st embodiment of the present invention,,, just forbid normal Variable Valve Time control and reference position study can be carried out up to finishing reference position study by learning preferential control program in the reference position of carrying out shown in Figure 28.

After connecting ignition switch,, carry out reference position shown in Figure 28 and learn preferential control program for example with predetermined periodic intervals.When starting this program, at first, in step 801, determine whether not finish reference position study.Learn imperfect tense when definite reference position, handle entering step 802 and forbidding normal Variable Valve Time control.After this, handle and to enter step 803 and hump speed Vs on the required change valve timing rate Vreq is set.

After this, handle entering step 804, and carry out reference position study.In this reference position study, to the state of reference position (for example with valve timing control, when reference location is used in angular orientation that maximum is lagged behind, and calculate actual valve timing VT and this study is the reference position state with the motion portion of the phase change mechanism 21 of retardation angle end retainer adjacency).

After this, when in step 801, when determining to have finished reference position study, handle entering step 805 and allowing normal Variable Valve Time control.After this, handle and to enter step 806 and to cancel hump speed Vs on the required change valve timing rate Vreq.

In above-mentioned the 11 embodiment, till finishing reference position study, forbid normal Variable Valve Time control and only make reference position study to carry out.Therefore, before normal Variable Valve Time control is transferred in processing, the detection validity that can finish reference position study and guarantee actual valve timing VT.

(the 12 embodiment)

Even when finishing reference position study, if in the study of reference position, occur unusually, and wrong study reference position, it is big that the detection error of actual valve timing VT becomes.Therefore, when with valve timing control to or during near the limit position of its variable range, have the possibility of the moving part high-speed impact retainer of phase change mechanism 21.

For avoiding this, in the 12nd embodiment of the present invention, carry out reference position shown in Figure 29 and learn unusual definite program and variance ratio limit control program valve timing shown in Figure 30.By these programs, can determine whether the unusual of position, reference position study, and when determining in the study of reference position, to exist when unusual, hump speed Vs is set on required change valve timing rate Vreq and carries out rate limit and control.

After connecting ignition switch, for example with predetermined period, carry out reference position shown in Figure 29 and learn unusual definite program, and carry out the task of the unusual definite device of study.When beginning this program, at first,, determine whether current reference position learning value VT0 is lower than upper limit end study protection value VTGmax in step 901.In step 902, determine whether current reference position learning value VT0 is higher than lower limit end study protection value VTGmin.Wherein, upper limit end study protection value VTGmax and lower limit end study protection value VTGmin are the values that is provided with about the normal range (NR) of the deviation of the reference position that is produced by each difference between system, change or the like in time.

If the normal range (NR) of reference position learning value VT0 between upper limit end study protection value VTGmax and lower limit end study protection value VTGmin (among VTGmin≤VT0≤VTGmax), handles entering step 903 and determining not have reference position study unusual (it is normal).

On the contrary; if reference position learning value VT0 is greater than upper limit end study protection value VTGmax or less than lower limit end study protection value VTGmin; that is, when reference position learning value VT0 is not included in the scope between upper and lower bound end protection value VTGmax, VTGmin, handle entering step 904.In step 904, determine to exist reference position study unusual (study of reference position mistake).

And when beginning change valve timing rate limit control program shown in Figure 30, at first, in step 1001, learn in the reference position of above-mentioned Figure 29 on unusual definite result's the basis of unusual definite program, determine reference position study whether unusual (whether wrong study reference position).

When this result is when having determined reference position study unusual (wrong study reference position), because reduce the detection validity (increase and detect error) of actual valve timing VT, can infer the possibility of the moving part high-speed impact retainer that has phase change mechanism 21.Therefore, handle hump speed Vs and the control of execution rate limit that enters step 1002 and be provided for limiting required change valve timing rate Vreq.

On the other hand,, determine reference position study just often, handle entering step 1003 and cancelling the hump speed Vs that change speed Vreq required valve timing when in step 1001.

In above-mentioned the 12 embodiment, when unusual (wrong study reference position) learnt in definite reference position, execution being restricted to the rate limit that is lower than hump speed Vs with required change valve timing rate Vreq and controlling.Therefore,, can avoid the moving part high velocity impact retainer of phase change mechanism even when the detection error of wrong study reference position and actual valve timing VT increases, and the grinding and the damage that can prevent gear mechanism.

Equally in the 12 embodiment, can carry out target computer program valve timing of Figure 26, unusual with box lunch with reference position study, when carrying out Variable Valve Time control, be provided with according to through-rate restriction control, according to target VTtg valve timing that is restricted to the change valve timing rate that is lower than hump speed Vs.

(the 13 embodiment)

In the 13rd embodiment of the present invention,, forbid normal Variable Valve Time control and till the study of definite reference position is normal, just only can carry out reference position study by carrying out study optimization control program in reference position shown in Figure 31.

Reference position shown in Figure 31 study optimization control program is the processing that changes over step 801a by the processing with the step 801 of Figure 28, and the identical program that obtains with Figure 28 of the processing of other steps.

In this program, at first,, learn in the reference position of aforesaid Figure 29 on unusual definite result's the basis of unusual definite program at step 801a, determine reference position study whether unusual (whether wrong study reference position).

When this result has determined that the reference position learns to forbid normal Variable Valve Time control and on required change valve timing rate Vreq hump speed Vs is set when unusual, then, carry out reference position study (step 802 is to 804).After this,, determine reference position study just often, allow normal Variable Valve Time control and cancel hump speed Vs (step 805,806) on the required change valve timing rate Vreq when in step 801a.

In above-mentioned the 13 embodiment, forbid normal Variable Valve Time control and only determine reference position study just often, just only carry out reference position study.Therefore, before processing turns to normal Variable Valve Time control, the detection validity that can normally finish reference position study and can guarantee actual valve timing VT.

(the 14 embodiment)

Piloting engine before 11, can control electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus 18 (see figure 2)s (shutting engine down simultaneously).Therefore, in the 14 embodiment,,, carry out reference position study piloting engine (at prestart) before 11 by the reference position study control program shown in the performed Figure 32 of pretrigger.

With the predetermined period of (after just in time ignition switch turns to ACC position or ON position from the OFF position) behind the power supply that just in time is switched to ECU30, carry out the pretrigger reference position study control program among Figure 32.When starting this program, at first,, determine whether ignition switch has turned to the ON position in step 1101.When ignition switch has turned to the ON position, handle entering step 1102 and determining whether to finish reference position study.If also do not finish reference position study, handle entering step 1103 and carrying out reference position study.

Because by this processing, carry out reference position study at motor 11 prestarts, can be from accurately detect actual valve timing VT 11 the time when piloting engine.Therefore, actual valve timing VT accurately can be controlled to target VTtg valve timing that is suitable for starting, but and the startability that can improve motor 11.

(the 15 embodiment)

In the 15 embodiment, by carrying out pretrigger reference position study control program shown in Figure 33,, carry out reference position study piloting engine before 11, and the starting control (starter motor operation) of forbidding motor 11, till finishing reference position study.

When the study control program of beginning pretrigger reference position shown in Figure 33, at first, in step 1201, determine whether ignition switch has turned to the ON position.When ignition switch has turned to the ON position, handle and enter step 1202, and determine whether to finish reference position study.When also not finishing reference position study, handle the starter motor operation (starting) that enters step 1203 and forbid motor 11.After this, processing enters step 1204 and carries out reference position study.The task of the processing execution starting inhibiting apparatus of above-mentioned steps 1203.

After this, when in step 1202, when determining to have finished reference position study, handle the operation that enters step 1205 and allow the starter motor of motor 11.After this, if ignition switch turns to the START position, starter motor is operated and is piloted engine 11.

In above-mentioned the 15 embodiment, because forbid that the starter motor operation till finishing reference position study, before finishing reference position study, can prevent to begin the operation of starter motor.In other words, in beginning starter motor operation with pilot engine before 11, surely finish reference position study.

(the 16 embodiment)

In the 16 embodiment, by carrying out pretrigger reference position study control program shown in Figure 34, the execution of processing that will be used to forbid the starting control (starter motor operation) of motor 11 was restricted to from the scheduled time when the connection ignition switch.

Pretrigger reference position study control program shown in Figure 34 is by increasing the processing of step 1201a after the processing of the step 1201 of Figure 33, and the identical program that obtains among the processing of other steps and Figure 33.

In this program, after in step 1201, determining to have connected ignition switch (operating the ON position), handle entering step 1201a and determine from connecting ignition switch scheduled time mistake whether.If,, forbid the operation of the starter motor of motor 11 by the processing of

step

1202 and 1203 from the also not passage of the scheduled time of connecting ignition switch.And after finishing reference position study, allow the starter motor operation (step 1205) of motor 11.

On the other hand, before finishing reference position study, it is out-of-date to have died from the scheduled time of connecting ignition switch, enters step 1205 and before finishing reference position study, also allows the starter motor operation of motor 11 even handle from step 1201a.

In above-mentioned the 16 embodiment,, just carry out the processing of operation till the reference position learns to finish of the starter motor that is used to forbid motor 11 only from the predetermined period of connecting ignition switch.Therefore,,, do not finish reference position study, after this, can begin the starting control (starter motor operation) of motor 11, and can prevent motor 11 problem of fail to start that becomes in the predetermined period of connecting ignition switch even be some reason.

Although in above-mentioned the 8th to the 16 embodiment, the present invention is applied to be used for the variable valve timing control device of intake valve, the invention is not restricted to this, replacedly, the present invention also can be applied to the variable valve timing control device of exhaust valve.Simultaneously, as required, can change the structure of variable valve timing apparatus 18, briefly, it can be any valve timing control device that is used to change the valve timing of using gear mechanism.Simultaneously, the driving source of variable valve timing apparatus is not limited to motor, and as long as it uses gear mechanism, the present invention just can be applied to have the variable valve timing apparatus as the hydraulic pressure of driving source.

In addition, the present invention can realize by any of various other changes, and for example, can by above-mentioned the 8th to the 16th embodiment combination in any realize.

(the 17 embodiment)

Now, the 17th embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus has it can change valve timing, and with the irrelevant characteristic of the operating condition of motor.Therefore, even when motor just starts or stops, also carrying out Variable Valve Time control.Yet when motor just started or stops, the counter-rotating of motor took place sometimes.When starting or shutting engine down, when just carrying out Variable Valve Time control, during engine inversion, following problems appears.

Just changeing at camshaft, promptly crankshaft and camshaft are under the prerequisite of just changeing, and execution is based on the calculating of the actual valve timing of the output signal of crank angle sensor and cam angle sensor.Because this, when engine inversion, the timing of erroneous calculations actual valve.Therefore, when in engine start or when stopping, the Variable Valve Time control period, during engine inversion, on the basis of the actual valve timing of erroneous calculations, the control variable valve timing apparatus.

Therefore, the 17 embodiment's purpose provides the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine, can prevent in advance with because the relevant problem of Variable Valve Time control that the counter-rotating of internal-combustion engine causes, and can improve when starting and stopping the controllability of internal-combustion engine.

At first, with the variable valve timing control device of general introduction according to the 17 embodiment's internal-combustion engine.Variable valve timing control device according to the 17 embodiment is to pass through Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung, control is used for the driving source by being arranged with the internal-combustion engine branch, in the system of the variable valve timing apparatus of the valve timing of change intake valve or exhaust valve, determine device by rotation status, determine the rotation status of internal-combustion engine and when definite internal-combustion engine is just changeing or stopping, carrying out a kind of equipment of actual valve timing calculating and/or Variable Valve Time control.

If do like this, can monitor the rotation status of internal-combustion engine and only can be configured to when internal-combustion engine is just changeing or stopping, just carrying out the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time.On the other hand, when the counter-rotating of internal-combustion engine takes place, can stop based on actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time control from the output signal of cam angle sensor and crank angle sensor.In this way, even when when starting or stopping internal-combustion engine, when the counter-rotating of internal-combustion engine occurring, also can prevent the deterioration of the Variable Valve Time validity that causes by counter-rotating, and can be increased in starting and stop the control of quality of the Variable Valve Time control on the internal-combustion engine.

In this case, best, on the basis of the output signal of crank angle sensor and/or cam angle sensor, determine the rotation status of internal-combustion engine.Crank angle sensor is with the interval output crank angle signal of predetermined crank angle, and cam angle sensor is with predetermined cam angle interval output cam angle signal.Therefore, by monitoring the output signal of crank angle sensor or cam angle sensor, can distinguish the internal-combustion engine positive rotation or stop.

Simultaneously, best, when the internal-combustion engine positive rotation and determine just opening or engine speed when starter motor disconnects when being higher than predetermined value, determine that internal-combustion engine is just changeing at starter motor.When starter motor is opened, drive internal-combustion engine so that the driving power by starter motor just changes because force, can determine that internal-combustion engine is just changeing.If although and when engine speed does not sufficiently improve, disconnect starter motor, have the possibility of internal-combustion engine counter-rotating, when after sufficiently improving engine speed, disconnecting starter motor, even after the starting of internal-combustion engine was normally finished and disconnected starter motor, internal-combustion engine still continued just to change.Therefore, if internal-combustion engine positive rotation and determine when disconnecting starter motor, when engine speed is higher than predetermined value, can determine that internal-combustion engine is just changeing.

Now, when internal-combustion engine stops, because not from the signal of crank angle sensor and cam angle sensor output.Impossible execution is based on the calculating of the actual valve timing of the output signal of crank angle sensor and cam angle sensor.

Therefore, best, when when stopping internal-combustion engine, in the time of will carrying out Variable Valve Time control, be controlled at a momentum of the variable valve timing apparatus after motor stops so that making the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing.The momentum that rises of the variable valve timing apparatus after motor stops to be formed the parameter that change the valve timing after being illustrated in motor and stopping.Therefore, by controlling a momentum of the variable valve timing apparatus after motor stops, can controlling from the variation valve timing of the actual valve timing of just in time before motor stops, calculating.In this way, actual valve timing when directly calculation engine does not stop, can make motor stop indirect and target coupling valve timing of actual valve timing simultaneously (change the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+valve timing), and can accurately carry out Variable Valve Time control.

When internal-combustion engine stops, best under the situation of electric motor driven variable valve timing apparatus when carrying out Variable Valve Time control, the rotating amount (revolution, angle of rotation, phase change) of motor is controlled to be the momentum that rises of variable valve timing apparatus.In this way, can be when stopping internal-combustion engine, Variable Valve Time control is carried out on pinpoint accuracy ground.

And when determining that internal-combustion engine has reversed, best, the actual valve timing is controlled to a reference position.In this way, can reach the ready state that is used for next Variable Valve Time control apace.

When the limit position of the reference position being arranged to the excursion of variable valve timing apparatus (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), in the internal-combustion engine clockwise and anticlockwise, or after reversing, when stopping internal-combustion engine, the actual valve timing can be controlled to this reference position.When the limit position of the excursion of this reference position being arranged to variable valve timing apparatus, even actual valve timing the unknown, the moving part bump advance angle end of the phase change mechanism of variable valve timing apparatus or the position of retardation angle end retainer become reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).Therefore, in internal-combustion engine clockwise and anticlockwise or any time of stopping, the actual valve timing can be controlled to the reference position.

In this case, best, on the basis that the control of variable valve timing apparatus is exported, determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position of the limit position of the excursion of being arranged to variable valve timing apparatus.That is, can whether exceed in control output on the basis that makes the actual valve timing reach the required predetermined value in reference position (making the moving part collision retainer of phase change mechanism), determine whether the actual valve timing reaches the reference position variable valve timing apparatus.

On the other hand, best when neutral position in the excursion of variable valve timing apparatus has been arranged in the reference position, when after internal-combustion engine reverses, stopping, the actual valve timing is controlled to the reference position.When the neutral position of excursion of variable valve timing apparatus has been arranged in the reference position, if actual valve timing the unknown then can not control to the reference position with the actual valve timing.Therefore, expectation waits for that internal-combustion engine stops after counter-rotating, and reaching by after for example changing the state that obtains the actual valve timing from valve timing of limit position, the actual valve timing is controlled to the reference position.

Now, on the basis of accompanying drawing, describe object lesson in detail according to the variable valve timing control device of the 17 embodiment's internal-combustion engine., below will no longer describe basically with illustrated in figures 1 and 2 identical according to the system architecture of the 17 embodiment's variable valve timing control device.

ECU30 among the 17 embodiment is by carrying out in the valve timing control program shown in Figure 35 to Figure 40, serve as rotation status and determine device and Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung, and in the rotation status of monitor engine 11, control variable valve timing apparatus 18.

In the 17 embodiment, as shown in figure 41, when connecting ignition switch when (being called " IG switch " hereinafter), variable valve timing apparatus is driven relay (being called " VCT drives relay " hereinafter) connect, and supply voltage is provided to ECU30 and variable valve timing apparatus 18 or the like from the battery (not shown).Even after disconnecting the IG switch, the ON state of keeping VCT driving relay is till the scheduled time crosses, and supply voltage continues to be provided to ECU30 and variable valve timing apparatus 18 or the like.And work as from disconnecting the IG switch, the scheduled time is out-of-date, disconnects VCT and drives relay, and stop to provide supply voltage to ECU30 and variable valve timing apparatus 18 or the like.As a result, even when motor stops, also controlling variable valve timing apparatus 18 till disconnecting VCT driving relay.

ECU30 determines the rotation status (just changeing/reverse/stop) of motor 11 on the basis from the ON/OFF signal of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19 and starter motor (not shown).When definite motor 11 when just changeing or stopping, carrying out the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time.When the counter-rotating of motor 11 has taken place, stop the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time.

Between the positive refunding of motor 11, on the basis of rotation of motor or the like, calculate target valve timing, and on the basis of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19, calculate the actual valve timing.And the motor 26 of feedback control variable valve timing apparatus 18 is so that make the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing.

On the other hand, when shutting engine down 11, because not from crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19 output signals, impossible execution is based on the calculating of the actual valve timing of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19.Therefore, when shutting engine down 11, the rotating amount (revolution, angle of rotation, phase change) of the motor 26 of the variable valve timing apparatus 18 of control motor after stopping is so that make the actual valve timing become target valve timing.Promptly, because the parameter that has changed the valve timing that the rotating amount of the motor after motor stops 26 is expressions since stopping from motor, by controlling the rotating amount of the motor 26 after motor stops, can be by the actual valve timing of just in time before motor stops, calculating, control changes valve timing.In this way, the actual valve timing when motor is stopped (the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+valve timing change) becomes target valve timing indirectly, and the actual valve timing when directly calculation engine does not stop.

Simultaneously, different if determine that motor 11 has reversed with normal Variable Valve Time control, by controlling to the reference position, the actual valve timing is brought to fast be used for the ready state that next Variable Valve Time is controlled.The for example limit position of the excursion of variable valve timing apparatus 18 (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) is arranged in this reference position.

Now, will the contents processing of the valve timing control program shown in the Figure 35 to 40 that is carried out by ECU30 be described.

(throttle timing control)

With from connecting the IG switch, carry out throttle timing control program shown in Figure 35 to disconnecting the predetermined period that VCT drives relay.When starting this program, at first,, on the basis of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20, carry out engine revolution/stop to determine in step 1301.Replacedly, on the basis of the output signal of cam angle sensor 19, carry out engine revolution/stop to determine.

After this, handle to enter step 1302, and on definite result's of step 1301 basis, determine whether positive rotation of motor.If determine that motor does not rotate (motor stops), processing enters step 1305 and carries out as shown in figure 38, is used for the valve timing control program when motor stops, and will further describe after a while, and present procedure finishes.

On the other hand, when in step 1302, when determining the motor positive rotation, processing enters step 1303 and carries out motor shown in Figure 33 and just change/reverse definite program, to further describe after a while, on basis, carry out motor and just change/reverse definite thus from the ON/OFF signal of starter motor (not shown).After this, handle and to enter step 1304 and on definite result's of step 1303 basis, to determine whether motor is just changeing.If determine that motor is just changeing, processing enters step 1306 and carries out as shown in figure 37, be used for will further describing after a while when the valve timing control program of motor when just changeing, and this EOP end of program.On the other hand, when in step 1304, determine that motor does not just change (promptly, motor is in counter-rotating) time, processing enters step 1307 and carries out as shown in figure 39, is used for the valve timing control program when the motor clockwise and anticlockwise, to further describe after a while, and this EOP end of program.

[it is definite that motor just changes/reverses]

In step 1303 at the throttle timing control program of Figure 35, the motor that starts Figure 36 just changes/during rollback routine, at first, in step 1401, determine whether starter motor is opened.If determine to have opened starter motor, just determine that driving power by starter motor forces motor 11 to drive just changeing, and handle and enter 1402.In step 1402, determine that motor is just changeing, and present procedure finishes.

When on the other hand, in step 1401, when determining not open starter motor (promptly closing motivation), handle entering step 1403.In step 1403, whether the engine speed of determining the time point when closing motivation is higher than predetermined speed is changeed so that just keep.When determining that engine speed when closing motivation is higher than predetermined speed, because before closing motivation, engine speed enough improves, even can infer the starting of normally finishing motor 11 and after closing motivation, motor 11 also can continue just to change.Therefore, handle to enter step 1402, and definite motor just changeing, thus this EOP end of program.

About this,, when definite engine speed when starter motor cuts out is lower than predetermined speed,, there is the possibility of motor 11 counter-rotatings because before engine speed enough improves, close motivation because starter motor cuts out when in step 1403.Therefore, handle and enter step 1404, and definite motor clockwise and anticlockwise, this EOP end of program thus.

[valve timing control when motor is just changeing]

In step 1306 at the throttle timing control program of Figure 35, start shown in Figure 37ly, be used for when the valve timing control program of motor when just changeing, at first, in step 1501, on the basis of operating condition of motor or the like, calculate target valve timing.After this, handle enter step 1502 and by for example from the crank angle signal of crank angle sensor output with from the cam angle signal of cam angle sensor 19 outputs, calculate the actual valve timing.

After this, processing enters the motor 26 of step 1503 and feedback control variable valve timing apparatus 18 so that make the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing.

Replacedly, can carry out when motor this valve timing control when just changeing as being used for as identical control in above-mentioned first embodiment.

[valve timing control when motor stops]

In step 1305, start as shown in figure 38, when being used for the valve timing control program when motor stops at the throttle timing control program of Figure 35, at first, in step 1601, calculate target valve timing (valve timing when for example, being suitable for next engine start).After this, handle the target revolution (target rotating amount) that enters step 1602 and calculating and actual valve timing of just in time before motor stops, calculating and difference (target valve timing change) the corresponding to motor 26 of target between valve timing.

After this, handle entering step 1603, and the revolution (rotating amount) of accumulative total motor 26 since motor stops is so that obtained the actual revolution (actual rotating amount) of motor 26.Suppose on the positive veer of motor, the revolution of motor 26 give on the occasion of, and on the reverse directions of motor, give and be negative value.

Whether after this, handle the actual revolution and the target revolution that have entered step 1604 and definite motor 26 since motor stops mates.When the actual revolution of having determined the motor 26 since motor stops and target revolution do not match, handle the revolution that having entered step 1605 and definite motor 26 since motor stops and whether be lower than the target revolution.If the actual revolution of motor 26 is lower than the target revolution, processing enters step 1606 and before turning back to step 1603, control motor 26 is just changeing.On the other hand, enter step 1607 and before turning back to step 1603, control motor 26 counter-rotatings if the actual revolution of motor 26 greater than the target revolution, is handled.

After this, in step 1604, the actual revolution of having determined the motor 26 since motor stops is during with target revolution coupling, and the actual valve timing (the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+variation valve timing) of handling the motor that enters step 1608 and determine to stop has reached target valve timing.After this, handle entering step 1609 and stopping motor 26, thus the actual valve timing is remained the valve timing of that time, and this EOP end of program.

[valve timing control when engine inversion]

In the step 1307 of the throttle timing control program of Figure 35, start the valve timing control program when the motor clockwise and anticlockwise of being used for of Figure 39, at first, in step 1701, the reference position is read as target valve timing.As mentioned above, this reference position is arranged to for example constitute the full aduance position or the maximum retardation angle position of limit position of the excursion of variable valve timing apparatus 18.

After this, in step 1702, determine whether target valve timing (reference position) is full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position, if and determine that target valve timing (reference position) is full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position, carry out the processing of step 1703 forward and in engine inversion, the actual valve timing is controlled to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).When full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position are arranged in the reference position, even actual valve timing the unknown, the moving part collision full aduance end of the phase change mechanism 21 of variable valve timing apparatus 18 or the position of maximum retardation angle end become reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).Therefore, even when the motor clockwise and anticlockwise, also can use following manner, the actual valve timing is controlled to the reference position.

At first, in step 1703, carry out the reference position shown in Figure 40 and arrive definite program, to further describe after a while, and on the basis of exporting, carry out the actual valve timing and whether reach determining of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) to the control of motor 26.

After this, handle and to enter step 1704 and on definite result's of step 1703 basis, to determine whether the actual valve timing reaches reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).When definite actual valve timing also when no show reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), handle the controlling value that enters step 1705 and output motor 26 on the direction of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) so that the actual valve timing is moved.

After this, when in step 1704, when determining that the actual valve timing has arrived reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), handle to enter step 1706 and the storing value of actual valve timing is updated to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).After this, handle entering step 1707 and controlling motor 26 so that keep current valve timing, and this EOP end of program.

Replacedly, when stopping behind the engine inversion, processing that can execution in step 1703 to 1707, and when behind engine inversion, stopping, the actual valve timing is controlled to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

On the other hand, when the neutral position in the excursion of the reference position being arranged to variable valve timing apparatus 18, in step 1702, be defined as "No", and this EOP end of program, and the not processing of execution in step 1703 to 1707.In this case, when behind engine inversion, stopping, preferably the actual valve timing being controlled to reference position (neutral position).When neutral position in the excursion of variable valve timing apparatus 18 is arranged in the reference position, if actual valve timing the unknown can not control to the actual valve timing reference position (neutral position).Therefore, handle and at first to wait for up to motor till stopping after the counter-rotating, and reach from for example valve timing and to change to limit position, find out the state of actual valve timing after, the actual valve timing is controlled to the reference position.

[reference position arrives and determines]

When Figure 39 be used for when the motor clockwise and anticlockwise time the step 1703 of valve timing control program, the reference position that starts Figure 40 arrives when determining program, at first, in step 1801, calculate the target aggregate-value that makes the actual valve timing reach the required control output of arriving motor 26 in reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) (making the moving part collision retainer of phase change mechanism 21).After this, processing enter step 1802 and by accumulative total from when begin to control motor 26 to the motor control value of mobile actual valve timing on the direction of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), acquire the actual aggregate-value that the control of motor 26 is exported.

After this, handle the actual aggregate-value enter step 1803 and to be determined to the control output of motor 26 and whether bring up to the target aggregate-value that is higher than control output.When the working control output aggregate-value of determining motor 26 is elevated to when being higher than target control output aggregate-value, processing enters step 1804 and infers that the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), and this EOP end of program.

Use the flow chart of Figure 41, above-mentioned the 17 embodiment's example is described.When piloting engine 11 the time, to connect IG switch (connect VCT thus and drive relay) and opening between starter motor, motor is static, carries out the valve timing control that is used for when motor stops.That is, the actual revolution of the motor 26 since will stopping from motor controls to the target revolution so that make the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing of shutting engine down.

After this, although for opening and motor is just changeing, carrying out, starter is used for when the valve timing control of motor when just changeing.That is, the motor 26 of feedback control variable valve timing apparatus 18 is so that make actual valve timing and the target coupling of calculating valve timing on the basis of the output signal of crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19.

Then, after closing motivation, if determine that motor is just changeing, execution is used for when the valve timing control of motor when just changeing once more.Yet, after closing starter, when determining the motor clockwise and anticlockwise, stop the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time and make the actual valve timing turn back to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

When shutting engine down 11, on the other hand, before just in time disconnecting the IG switch, motor is just changeing, and carries out to be used for when the valve timing control of motor when just changeing.After this, stop, carrying out the valve timing control that is used for when motor stops till closing VCT driving relay if determine motor.Yet, when definite motor clockwise and anticlockwise, stop the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time, and make the actual valve timing turn back to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

In above-mentioned the 17 embodiment, the rotation status of monitor engine 11, and only when motor when just changeing or stopping, carry out the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time, and when engine inversion taking place, stop the control of actual valve timing calculating and Variable Valve Time.Because even this in starting or during shutting engine down, when the counter-rotating of motor occurring, also can prevent the deterioration of the valve timing control validity that caused by counter-rotating, and the control of quality controlled of the Variable Valve Time can be increased in starting and shutting engine down the time.

Yet, when shutting engine down, can not carry out the calculating of actual valve timing based on output signal from crank angle sensor 20 and cam angle sensor 19.Therefore, in the 17 embodiment, when when motor stops, when carrying out Variable Valve Time control, the actual revolution of motor 26 that can will be since motor stops is controlled to and target revolution coupling, so that the actual valve timing (change the just in time timing of the actual valve motor stops before+valve timing) of shutting engine down is mated with target valve timing.In this way, can make the actual valve timing of shutting engine down become target valve timing indirectly, and the actual valve timing when directly calculation engine does not stop, and carry out Variable Valve Time control with good accuracy.

Simultaneously, in the 17 embodiment, when engine inversion occurring,, can reach the ready state that is used for next Variable Valve Time control fast because the actual valve timing is controlled to the reference position.

(the 18 embodiment)

Then, the 18th embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Variable valve timing apparatus 18 in this embodiment has when drive motor 26 not, and the output shaft 27 of motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16 be the structures of rotation synchronously.Can on the basis of for example output signal of motor speed sensor 29, determine the rotation status (just changeing/reverse/stop) of motor 26.Therefore, when motor 26 just rotates synchronously with inlet end camshaft 16, can determine the rotation status of motor 11 by determining the rotation status of motor 26.

By in the processing that increases by two step 1403a, 1403b with reference to the step 1403 of the 17 embodiment described Figure 36 and step 1404, and identical among the processing of other steps and Figure 36, the motor shown in the Figure 42 that obtains to carry out in the 18 embodiment just changes/reverse definite program.

In this program, when determining that in step 1403 engine speed when close motivation is lower than can keep the preset engine speed of just changeing the time, processing entering step 1403a.In step 1403a, when variable valve timing apparatus 18 is just keeping the actual valve timing to stablize, that is, and when motor 26 just rotates synchronously with inlet end camshaft 16, for example, determine motor 26 forward or reverse according to the output signal of motor speed sensor 29.This forward or reverse of motor 26 is corresponding to the forward or reverse of motor 11.

After this, handle entering step 1403b and definite according to after closing motivation, whether the just commentaries on classics state that the rotation status of motor 26 is determined continues the scheduled time (or predetermined number of revolutions).When the state of determining to determine according to the rotation status of motor 26 that is just changeing had continued the scheduled time (or predetermined number of revolutions), processing enters step 1402 and definite motor is just changeing.On the other hand, when the just commentaries on classics state of determining according to the rotation status of motor 26 does not continue the scheduled time (or predetermined number of revolutions), handle entering step 1404 and definite motor clockwise and anticlockwise.

In this way, can determine the just commentaries on classics/counter-rotating of the motor 11 after closing motivation more accurately.

(the 19 embodiment)

Equally, in the 19th embodiment of the present invention, variable valve timing apparatus 18 has when drive motor 26 not, and the output shaft 27 of motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16 be the structures of rotation synchronously.Because this can determine the rotation status of motor 11 by rotation status definite and the inlet end camshaft 16 synchronous motor 26 that rotate.

In the 19 embodiment of the present invention, the engine revolution state shown in Figure 43 of carrying out is determined program.When starting this program, at first, in step 1901, be arranged to make the actual valve timing to keep stable status variable valve timing apparatus 18, i.e. motor 26 and the inlet end camshaft 16 synchronous states that rotate.After this, processing enters step 1902 and on the basis of for example output signal of motor speed sensor 29, determines the rotation status (just changeing/reverse/stop) of motor 26.

After this, handle to enter step 1903 and on definite result's of step 1902 basis, determine whether positive rotation of motor.When definite motor does not rotate (being that motor stops), handle entering step 1905 and this EOP end of program.

On the other hand, when in step 1903, when determining the motor positive rotation, handle entering step 1904 and on definite basis of step 1902, determining whether motor is just changeing.When definite motor when just changeing, handle to enter step 1906 and definite motor is just changeing, and this EOP end of program.

About this, when in step 1904, when determining that motor does not just change (being the motor clockwise and anticlockwise), handle and enter step 1907 and definite motor clockwise and anticlockwise, and this EOP end of program.

In above-mentioned the 19 embodiment, behind the states that motor 26 and inlet end camshaft 16 rotation synchronously are set, with inlet end camshaft 16 synchronously on the basis of the rotation status of the motor 26 of rotation, determine the rotation status (just changeing/reverse/stop) of motor 11, therefore, with good accuracy, can determine the rotation status of motor 11.

(the 20 embodiment)

When motor stops, carry out in the Variable Valve Time control, in the 17 embodiment, as the rotating amount of the motor 26 of the variable valve timing apparatus 18 after stopping at motor, can control the actual revolution of motor 26 and target revolution coupling so that the actual valve timing of shutting engine down and target are mated valve timing.About this, in the 20 embodiment,, use phase change as the rotating amount of motor 26.That is, the actual phase of the motor 26 after motor is stopped to change (actual angle of rotation) and controls to target phase and change (target angle of rotation) coupling so that the actual valve timing of shutting engine down and target are mated valve timing.

When rotating predetermined angles, calculate, can detect the phase change (angle of rotation) of motor 26 from the pulse signal of motor speed sensor 29 outputs by each motor 26.

In the 20 embodiment, carry out shown in Figure 44ly, be used for the valve timing control program when shutting engine down.When starting this program, at first, in step 2001, calculate target valve timing.Then, in step 2002, the target phase of calculating the motor 26 of the difference (target changes valve timing) between valve timing corresponding to actual valve timing of just in time calculating and target before motor stops changes.And in step 2003, added up to the phase change of the motor 26 since motor stops and changing so that obtain the actual phase of motor 26.The phase change of motor 26 be for example on the forward direction sense of rotation of motor, be given as on the occasion of, and on the counterrotating direction of motor, be given as negative value.

Because this, in step 2004 and step 2005, the actual phase of motor 26 that will be since motor stops changes to change with target phase and compares.If the actual phase of motor 26 changes and to be lower than target phase and to change, in step 2006, control motor 26 is so that just change, and if the actual phase of motor 26 change greater than target phase and change, control motor 26 is so that counter-rotating in step 2007.

After this, when in step 2004, the actual phase of having determined the motor 26 since motor stops changes and target phase variation coupling, in step 2008, the actual valve timing (the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+valve timing change) of determining shutting engine down has reached target valve timing.Then, in step 2009, stop motor 26 and maintenance actual valve timing as that time point.

In the 20 embodiment, can calculate the actual valve timing of shutting engine down indirectly and make this actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing, and can good accuracy carry out Variable Valve Time control equally.

(the 21 embodiment)

As in above-mentioned the 17 embodiment and the 20 embodiment, by being controlled at after motor stops, the rotating amount (revolution, angle of rotation, phase change) of the motor 26 that plays momentum of expression variable valve timing apparatus 18 can make the actual valve timing of shutting engine down and target mate valve timing.Yet the momentum (rotating amount of motor 26) that rises of above-mentioned variable valve timing apparatus 18 is not unique parameter of having represented that change the valve timing since motor stops, for example, can adopt the amount that is applied to the driving force on the variable valve timing apparatus yet.

In the 21 embodiment of invention shown in Figure 45, in shutting engine down, carry out in the Variable Valve Time control,, use the amount of electrical power of the motor 26 that is provided to variable valve timing apparatus 18 as the above-mentioned amount that is provided to the driving force on the variable valve timing apparatus 18.That is, after the control motor stops, being provided to the actual electric power amount on the motor 26, making the actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing of shutting engine down so that itself and the electric power aim parameter coupling that provides are provided.

In the 21 embodiment, carry out as shown in figure 45, be used for the valve timing control program when motor stops.When starting this program, at first, in step 2101, calculate target valve timing.Then, in step 2102, calculate corresponding to difference (target variation valve timing) between valve timing of the actual valve timing of just in time motor stops before, calculating and target, be provided to the target amount of electrical power of motor 26.After this, in step 2103, add up to after motor stops, being provided to the amount of electrical power on the motor 26 so that obtain to be provided to the actual electric power amount of motor 26.For example on the forward direction sense of rotation of motor, the amount of electrical power that is provided to motor 26 be given as on the occasion of and counterrotating direction at motor on be given as negative value.

After this, in step 2104 and step 2105, will be since motor stop, the actual electric power amount that is provided to motor 26 compares with the aim parameter of supplying with electric power.If the actual electric power amount that is provided to motor 26 is less than the aim parameter of supplying with electric power, in step 2106, the electric power on the positive veer is provided to motor 26.On the other hand, if the actual electric power amount that is provided to motor 26 in step 2107, is provided to motor 26 with the electric power on the counterrotating direction greater than the aim parameter of supplying with electric power.

After this, when in step 2104, determined since motor stops, be provided to the actual electric power amount and the aim parameter coupling of supplying with electric power of motor 26, in step 2108, the actual valve timing (change the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+valve timing) of determining the motor that stops has reached target valve timing.Then, in step 2109, stop the actual valve timing that electric power is provided to motor 26 and remains on that time point.

By aforesaid the 21 embodiment, actual valve timing that can the indirect calculation shutting engine down and make this actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing, and can good accuracy, carry out Variable Valve Time control.

(the 22 embodiment)

In above-mentioned the 21 embodiment, because motoring variable valve timing apparatus 18 as the driving force of variable valve timing apparatus 18, uses the amount of electrical power of the motor 26 that is provided to variable valve timing apparatus 18.

In the 22 embodiment, under the situation of using hydraulically powered variable valve timing apparatus, will be used as the driving force that is provided to variable valve timing apparatus from the oil mass that hydraulic drive source provides.Promptly, in the 22nd embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 46, at the hydraulically powered hydraulic driving variable valve timing apparatus that provides by electronics oil pump that was arranged in 11 minutes with motor or similar device (hereinafter, be called " hydraulic pressure VCT ") in, will from the actual fuel-flow control that has been provided to hydraulic pressure VCT since motor stops to supply with target oil mass coupling so that the actual valve timing of shutting engine down and target are mated valve timing.

In the 22 embodiment, carry out as shown in figure 46, be used for the valve timing control program when motor stops.When beginning this program, at first, in step 2201, calculate target valve timing.Then, in step 2202, calculate the target oil mass (target changes valve timing), that be provided to hydraulic pressure VCT of the difference between valve timing corresponding to actual valve timing of just in time before motor stops, calculating and target.And, since total stops from motor, be provided to the oil mass of hydraulic pressure VCT so that obtain to be provided to the actual oil mass of hydraulic pressure VCT in step 2203.For example, shift to an earlier date on the direction in valve timing, the oil mass that is provided to hydraulic pressure VCT be given as on the occasion of, and on lagging behind direction valve timing, be given as negative value.

After this, in step 2204 and step 2205, to since motor stops, being provided to the actual oil mass of hydraulic pressure VCT and providing the target oil mass to compare, if and the actual oil mass that is provided to hydraulic pressure VCT is less than the target oil mass is provided, in step 2206, the hydraulic pressure that will shift to an earlier date valve timing on the direction is provided to hydraulic pressure VCT.On the other hand, if the actual oil mass that is provided to hydraulic pressure VCT greater than supplying with the target oil mass, in step 2207, the hydraulic pressure that valve timing is lagged behind on the direction is provided to hydraulic pressure VCT.

After this, when in step 2204, determine to be provided to the actual oil mass of hydraulic pressure VCT and supply with oily aim parameter when mating, in step 2208, the actual valve timing (the just in time timing of the actual valve before motor stops+valve timing change) of determining shutting engine down has reached target valve timing.Then, in step 2209, remain to the fuel feeding state of hydraulic pressure VCT so that keep the actual valve timing of that time point.

In above-mentioned the 22 embodiment, actual valve timing that can the indirect calculation shutting engine down and make this actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing, and, carry out Variable Valve Time control with good accuracy.

(the 23 embodiment)

Working as the motor clockwise and anticlockwise, or after the counter-rotating when stopping, the actual valve timing is controlled to reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position), in above-mentioned the 17 embodiment, whether risen at the actual aggregate-value of exporting to the control of motor 26 on the basis of the target aggregate-value that is higher than control output, determined whether actual valve has reached the reference position.About this, in the 23 embodiment, whether be higher than on the basis of target master control time value in the actual master control time value of motor 26, determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position.That is, in the control output that is determined to variable valve timing apparatus 18, except that the aggregate-value of that control output, can also determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position by using total control time value.

In the 23 embodiment, carry out the reference position shown in Figure 47 and arrive definite program.In this program, at first, in step 2301, calculate the target master control time value that makes the actual valve timing become the required motor 26 in reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) (making the moving part collision retainer of phase change mechanism 21).After this, processing enters step 2302, and add up to from when 26 startups of control motor to motor control time of mobile actual valve timing on the direction of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) so that obtain actual master control time value.

After this, in step 2303, the actual master control time value and the target master control time value of motor 26 compared.When the actual master control time value of motor 26 rises to when being higher than target master control time value, in step 2304, infer that the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

By the 23 embodiment, can determine accurately whether the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

(the 24 embodiment)

In above-mentioned the 17 embodiment to the 23 embodiments, on the basis of exporting, determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position to the control of variable valve timing apparatus 18.Yet, also can on the basis of the serviceability of variable valve timing apparatus 18, determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position.

The 24 embodiment shown in Figure 48 concentrates on when the actual valve timing reaches the moving part collision retainer of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) and phase change mechanism 21, the rotation of motor 26 decelerates to the speed identical with camshaft speed suddenly or stops suddenly, and the current value of motor 26 or magnitude of voltage increase.Promptly, in this embodiment, serviceability as variable valve timing apparatus 18, the actual current value of monitoring motor 26 or actual voltage value, and whether be higher than on the basis of predetermined threshold in actual current value or actual voltage value, determine whether the actual valve timing has reached the reference position.

In the 24 embodiment, carry out reference position shown in Figure 48 and arrive definite program.In this program, at first, in step 2401, calculating is used for determining whether the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) (promptly, whether rotation of positive restrictions motor 26, so the current value of motor 26 or magnitude of voltage increase) motor current threshold value or motor voltage threshold value.After this, in step 2402, detect the actual current value or the actual voltage value of motor 26.

After this, in step 2403, the actual current value (or actual voltage value) of motor 26 and motor current threshold value (or motor voltage threshold value) are compared.When the actual current value (or actual voltage value) of motor 26 has been higher than motor current threshold value (or motor voltage threshold value), in step 2404, infer that the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

By the 24 embodiment, can determine accurately whether the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

(the 25 embodiment)

The 25 embodiment constitutes aforesaid the 24 embodiment's a modification.Promptly, in the 25 embodiment, the rotation that reaches the moving part collision retainer of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) and phase change mechanism 21 and motor 26 when the actual valve timing decelerates to the speed identical with camshaft speed suddenly or when stopping suddenly, this is detected on the basis of the actual velocity of motor 26.Particularly, when the rotation of motor 26 decelerates to the speed identical with camshaft speed suddenly or stops suddenly, and the actual velocity of motor 26 drops to when being lower than predetermined threshold, determines that the actual valve timing has reached the reference position.

In the 25 embodiment, carry out reference bit shown in Figure 49 and arrive definite program.In this program, at first, in step 2501, calculating is used for determining whether the actual valve timing has reached the electromotor velocity threshold value of reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position) (whether the speed that is motor 26 descends suddenly).After this, in step 2502, detect the actual velocity of motor 26.

After this, in step 2503, the actual velocity and the electromotor velocity threshold value of motor 26 compared.When the actual velocity of motor 26 drops to when being lower than the electromotor velocity threshold value, in step 2504, infer that the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

By the 25 embodiment, can determine accurately whether the actual valve timing has reached reference position (full aduance position or maximum retardation angle position).

(the 26 embodiment)

Then, use Figure 50, describe the 26th embodiment of the present invention.

When engine speed was low, such as when starting and the shutting engine down, the generation power (battery charge power) of the synchronous generator that is driven by motor 11 descended, and the decline of cell voltage tendency.Variable Valve Time control period when at starting or shutting engine down, when cell voltage becomes too low, exist the power be provided on the variable valve timing apparatus 18 to become not enough and the power that produces the deficiency operation of variable valve timing apparatus 18 or the be provided to starter motor possibility that the startability of deficiency and motor 11 descends that becomes.

As countermeasure to this, in the 26 embodiment, by carrying out the operational condition reprogramming of variable valve timing apparatus shown in Figure 50, when engine speed is lower than predetermined value, with cell voltage consistently, change the operational condition of variable valve timing apparatus 18.In this way, even engine speed descends sometimes, during such as starting and shutting engine down, when cell voltage descends, the operational condition that can change variable valve timing apparatus 18 is so that under the cell voltage condition, variable valve timing apparatus 18 can normal runnings, maybe can guarantee the supply voltage of starter motor.

When connecting the IG switch to closing the temporal predetermined period of VCT when driving relay, carry out the operational condition reprogramming of variable valve timing apparatus 18 shown in Figure 50.When this program of starting, at first, in step 2601, detect current cell voltage.After this, in step 2602, detect present engine speed.Then, in step 2603, determine whether engine speed is higher than predetermined value.This predetermined value is arranged to engine speed so that the enough generation power (battery charge power) of the synchronous generator that can guarantee to be driven by motor 11.Be higher than predetermined value if determine engine speed, infer the problem that descends and cause by cell voltage and this EOP end of program not to occur.

On the other hand, when in step 2603, when determining that engine speed is lower than predetermined value, processing enters step 2604 and whether definite cell voltage is higher than the first predetermined value V1.If when determining that cell voltage is higher than the first predetermined value V1, infer the problem that descends and cause by cell voltage and this EOP end of program not to occur.

When in step 2604, when determining that cell voltage is lower than the first predetermined voltage V1, processing enters step 2605 and whether definite cell voltage is higher than the second predetermined value V2.This second predetermined value V2 is arranged to the lower magnitude of voltage than the first predetermined value V1.When definite cell voltage is lower than the first predetermined value V1, and when being higher than the second predetermined value V2, handles to enter step 2606 and the priming speed of variable valve timing apparatus 18 is restricted to and be lower than predetermined speed, thereby reduce the power consumption of variable valve timing apparatus 18.In this way, in low-power consumption mode, normal running variable valve timing apparatus 18 and guarantee power supply of starter motor etc. or the like.

About this, when definite cell voltage is lower than the second predetermined value V1, determine that this can not limit by the service speed on the variable valve timing apparatus 18 to handle, and handle the operation that enters step 2607 and forbid variable valve timing apparatus 18.In this way, determine to prevent the defective operation of variable valve timing apparatus 18 and the electricity shortage of arriving starter motor.

By above-mentioned the 26 embodiment, when engine speed is lower than predetermined value, with cell voltage consistently, the priming speed of restriction variable valve timing apparatus 18 or forbid the operation of variable valve timing apparatus 18.Therefore, even when the time at starting or shutting engine down, cell voltage occurs and descend, also can prevent, and can increase and start and the control of quality during shutting engine down by this voltage descend the defective operation and the engine start deterioration of the variable valve timing apparatus 18 that causes.

According to engine condition (temperature, engine loading, electrical load, oil viscosity are waited for), can change the predetermined value (threshold value) of the engine speed among the 26 embodiment and the predetermined value (threshold value) of cell voltage.If do like this, when cell load is very big, during such as cold starting for example, the predetermined value that can make the predetermined value of engine speed or cell voltage is very big so that prevent the problem that caused by the cell voltage deficiency.

Simultaneously, although in the 26 embodiment, when cell voltage was very low, the priming speed of restriction variable valve timing apparatus 18 replacedly, can change some other operational conditions (for example operation amount) of variable valve timing apparatus 18.

Simultaneously,, can realize the 26 embodiment, also can implement individually although make up above-mentioned other embodiments.

Although simultaneously in above-mentioned the 17 embodiment to the 26 embodiments, on the valve timing control program end, determine the counter-rotating of motor, replacedly, also can determine the counter-rotating of motor, and should determine that the result was used in the valve timing control program at the engine control procedures end.And can be reflected on the engine control procedures end, and for example can carry out the fuel-cut control that counter-rotating is determined in definite result of the engine inversion of carrying out on the valve timing control program end.

Simultaneously, in above-mentioned the 17 embodiment to the 26 embodiments, when stopping, carrying out by motor in the Variable Valve Time control, by having represented that change the valve timing since motor stops, rotating amount (revolution such as motor 26, phase change) parameter controls to desired value, can make shutting engine down the actual valve timing and target valve timing coupling, rather than the actual valve timing when directly calculation engine stops.Yet, replacedly, can be in the parameter of actual valve timing before just in time motor stops and expression variation valve timing, rotating amount (revolution such as motor 26, phase change) on the basis, calculate the actual valve timing (change the just in time timing of the actual valve motor stops before+valve timing) of shutting engine down, and can feedback control variable valve timing apparatus 18 so that the actual valve timing of shutting engine down and target are mated valve timing.

Simultaneously, the invention is not restricted to as the variable valve timing control device that is used for intake valve in above-mentioned the 17 embodiment and the 26 embodiment, and the variable valve timing control device that replacedly can be applicable to be used for exhaust valve.Simultaneously, can suitably change the structure of variable valve timing apparatus 18, and briefly, it can be by driving source, any variable valve timing apparatus that drives such as the motor that is arranged with the motor branch or oil pump.

Claims

1. the variable valve timing control device of an internal-combustion engine comprises:

Variable valve timing apparatus is used for the driving source by being arranged with the internal-combustion engine branch, changes the valve timing of intake valve or exhaust valve;

Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung is used to control variable valve timing apparatus so that make actual valve timing and target coupling valve timing (being called hereinafter, " Variable Valve Time control "); And

Rotation status is determined device, is used for determining the rotation status of internal-combustion engine,

Wherein, determine device when described rotation status and determine that internal-combustion engine is when just changeing or stopping, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung is carried out actual valve timing calculating and/or Variable Valve Time control, and when described rotation status determined that device is determined internal-combustion engine in counter-rotating, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung was not carried out actual valve timing calculating and/or Variable Valve Time control.

2. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 1 is characterized in that, described rotation status determines that device on the basis from the output signal of crank angle sensor and/or cam angle sensor, determines the rotation status of internal-combustion engine.

3. as the variable valve timing control device of claim 1 or the described internal-combustion engine of claim 2, it is characterized in that, when the internal-combustion engine positive rotation, and when determining just to open starter motor or the engine speed when closing motivation when being not less than predetermined value, described rotation status determines that device determines that described internal-combustion engine is just changeing.

4. as the variable valve timing control device of claim 1 or the described internal-combustion engine of claim 2, further comprise drive motor with the running shaft that rotates synchronously with described camshaft, wherein, described rotation status is determined the rotation status of device based on motor, determines the rotation status of internal-combustion engine.

5. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 4, it is characterized in that, after closing motivation, based on the rotation status of motor, determine internal-combustion engine at the state continuance that is just changeing during the scheduled time, described rotation status determines that device determines that internal-combustion engine is just changeing.

6. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 4 is characterized in that, described variable valve timing apparatus comprises:

First rotary component is placed and is driven by the rotation driving power rotation from described crankshaft with described camshaft is concentric;

Second rotary component is with the whole rotation of camshaft;

The phase change parts are sent to rotary power described second rotary component and with respect to described first rotary component, change the rotatable phase of described second rotary component from described first rotary component; And

Motor, with the concentric placement of described camshaft so that control the rotatable phase of these phase change parts,

Wherein, described variable valve timing apparatus is configured to when do not change described valve timing, the speeds match that makes the speed of described motor and described camshaft is so that make the rotational speed of described phase change parts and the speeds match of described camshaft, thereby the difference that makes the rotatable phase between described first rotary component and described second rotary component keeps stable, keep stable described valve timing thereby make, and when change described valve timing, speed with respect to described camshaft, the speed that changes described motor is so that with respect to the speed of described camshaft, change the rotational speed of described phase change parts, thereby change the difference of the rotatable phase between described first rotary component and described second rotary component, thereby change described valve timing, and

Wherein, when described variable valve timing apparatus made keep stablizing valve timing, described rotation status was determined the rotation status of device based on motor, determines the rotation status of internal-combustion engine.

7. as the variable valve timing control device of claim 1 or the described internal-combustion engine of claim 2, it is characterized in that, when stopping internal-combustion engine, when carrying out the control of described Variable Valve Time, behind the described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung control shutting engine down, described variable valve timing apparatus play momentum and/or be provided to described variable valve timing apparatus the driving power amount so that the actual valve timing mate valve timing with target.

8. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 7, it is characterized in that, under described variable valve timing apparatus was situation by electric motor driven type, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung was controlled to be the rotating amount of described motor the momentum that rises of described variable valve timing apparatus.

9. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 7, it is characterized in that, under described variable valve timing apparatus was situation by electric motor driven type, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung was controlled to be institute's electrical power supplied amount the driving power amount that is provided to described variable valve timing apparatus.

10. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 7, it is characterized in that, under described variable valve timing apparatus was situation by hydraulically powered type, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung was the driving power amount that is provided to described variable valve timing apparatus with the fuel-flow control of being supplied with.

11. variable valve timing control device as claim 1 or the described internal-combustion engine of claim 2, it is characterized in that, when described rotation status determined that device is determined the internal-combustion engine counter-rotating, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung arrived the reference position with described valve timing control.

12. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 11, it is characterized in that, under the situation of the limit position of the mobile range of described reference position being arranged to described variable valve timing apparatus, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung is in the internal-combustion engine clockwise and anticlockwise, or when internal-combustion engine stops after counter-rotating, with described valve timing control to described reference position.

13. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 12, it is characterized in that, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung determines whether the actual valve timing arrives the reference position of the limit position of the mobile range of being arranged to described variable valve timing apparatus on the basis of exporting to the control of described variable valve timing apparatus.

14. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 12, it is characterized in that, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung determines whether the actual valve timing arrives the reference position of the limit position of the mobile range of being arranged to described variable valve timing apparatus on the basis of the serviceability of described variable valve timing apparatus.

15. the variable valve timing control device of internal-combustion engine as claimed in claim 11, it is characterized in that, be arranged in described reference position under the situation in neutral position of mobile range, when stopping after the internal-combustion engine counter-rotating, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung controls to described reference position with the actual valve timing.

16. variable valve timing control device as claim 1 or the described internal-combustion engine of claim 2, it is characterized in that, when the speed of internal-combustion engine was lower than predetermined value, described Ventilsteuerzeitsteuervorrichtung and cell voltage consistently changed the operational condition of described variable valve timing apparatus.