Function monitoring method for hydrocarbon sensor in internal combustion engine

摘要

The function monitoring method involves a continuous comparison of the heating power required for heating the hydrocarbon sensor element (11), with a given value, for indicating a sensor failure and disconnecting the heating. The supplied sensor value is compared with expected exhaust emission values, for given operating conditions, for detection of sensor failure after a selected time delay. Preferably, for an engine installed for powering a motor car, if a small fuel additive is applied, having a predefined hydrocarbon value, an error message is given out.