Stephen J Deasy

US Patent:

56736681, Oct 7, 1997

Filed:

Aug 5, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/691966

Inventors:

Tobias J. Pallett - Ypsilanti MI
Kelly M. Arbanas - Northville MI
Paul J. Szuszman - Dearborn MI
Stephen J. Deasy - Troy MI
Dorian Gluckman - Birmingham MI

Assignee:

Ford Global Technologies, Inc. - Dearborn MI

International Classification:

F02M 710

US Classification:

123436

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for executing a strategy of electronic throttle monitoring of a powertrain system including an electronic powertrain control module, and an electronic throttle control, includes an independent processor receiving signals shared with the powertrain control module from sensors and actuators on the vehicle. The monitor operates in a monitoring mode to detect faults occurring in the powertrain or the powertrain control module, and determines whether mitigating conditions occur in conjunction with detected power output greater than power demand. In the event that these mitigating conditions are not detected, the monitor operates in a limiting mode to actuate decreases in power output below the level of power demand.