Title of Invention

A KNOCK SENSOR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM TO DETECT AND MITIGATE ENGINE KNOCK

Abstract A knock sensor diagnostic system may include a knock sensor. A bias circuit applies a bias voltage to the knock sensor. An input circuit receives an input signal based on the bias voltage. A control module indicates a short circuit associated with the knock sensor based on the input signal. A knock sensor diagnostic system may also or alternatively include a signal generator that generates and applies a test signal with a predetermined frequency to the knock sensor. Another input circuit receives another input signal that is based on the test signal. A control module indicates an open circuit associated with the knock sensor based on the other input signal.
Full Text KNOCK SENSOR DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM AND METHOD
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to powertrain control
systems, and more particularly to knock sensors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of
generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named
inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects
of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are
neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.
[0003] Internal combustions engines combust an air and fuel (A/F) mixture
within cylinders to produce drive torque. More specifically, the combustion events
reciprocally drive pistons that in turn drive a crankshaft to provide output torque.
The A/F mixture is ignited at a desired crank angle. In some instances, however,
the A/F mixture auto-ignites ahead of an ignition flame-front within the cylinders.
This results in abnormal combustion or engine knock.
[0004] During an engine knock condition, temperature and pressure of an
unburned air/fuel mixture exceeds a certain level, which causes gases in an engine
to auto-ignite. This combustion produces a shock wave that generates a rapid
increase in cylinder pressure. Damage to pistons, rings, and exhaust valves can
result if sustained heavy engine knock occurs. Engine knock can be heard by
vehicle passengers.

[0005] Modern engine control systems are designed to minimize exhaust
emissions while maximizing power and fuel economy. Advancements in spark
timing for a given air/fuel ratio are made to increase power and improve fuel
economy. In general, advancing a spark relative to top dead center increases
torque until a point is reached at which a peak torque is produced. When the spark
is advanced too far, engine knock occurs. Thus, a spark is typically advanced to
maximize output torque without generating engine knock.
[0006] Accordingly, engine knock control systems have been developed to
detect and to mitigate engine knock. Conventional knock detection systems include
a knock sensor and a dedicated knock detection chip (knock IC) to process the
knock sensor signal and calculate the engine knock intensity. An individual knock
sensor and knock IC can be used to detect knock from each cylinder. Spark timing
is adjusted based on detected engine knock.
[0007] Over time and use an engine knock sensor circuit may experience
a short or an open circuit. As a result, signals received from an engine knock sensor
may be inaccurate or ineffective in preventing engine knock. Diagnosing a knock
sensor circuit is difficult due to intrinsic high resistance and moderate capacitance
associated therewith.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] A knock sensor diagnostic system is provided that includes a knock
sensor. A bias circuit applies a bias voltage to the knock sensor. An input circuit
receives an input signal based on the bias voltage. A control module indicates a

short circuit associated with the knock sensor based on the input signal. The bias
voltage may be a direct current (DC) bias voltage.
[0009] In another feature, a method of operating a knock sensor diagnostic
system includes applying a bias voltage to a knock sensor. A first input signal is
received based on the bias voltage. A test signal, with a predetermined frequency,
is generated and applied to the knock sensor. A second input signal is received
based on the test signal. A short circuit associated with the knock sensor is
indicated based on the first input signal. An open circuit associated with the knock
sensor is indicated based on the second input signal.
[0010] In still another feature, a knock sensor diagnostic system is
provided that includes a knock sensor. A signal generator generates and applies a
diagnostic signal with a predetermined frequency to the knock sensor. An input
circuit receives an input signal that is based on the diagnostic signal. A control
module indicates an open circuit associated with the knock sensor based on the
input signal.
[0011] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become
apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood
that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary
embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The present invention will become more fully understood from the
detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a vehicle control system
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram and schematic view of a knock
sensor diagnostic system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
and
[0015] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operating a knock
sensor diagnostic system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0016] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no
way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. For purposes of clarity,
the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar
elements. As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be
construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using a non-exclusive logical or. It should
be understood that steps within a method may be executed in different order without
altering the principles of the present disclosure.
[0017] As used herein, the term module refers to an Application Specific
Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or
group) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, a

combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide the
described functionality.
[0018] Referring now to FIG. 1, a functional block diagram of a vehicle
control system 10 of a vehicle 11 is shown. The vehicle control system 10 includes
a knock sensor diagnostic system 12. The knock sensor diagnostic system 12
determines status of one or more knock sensors 13, which are mounted on an
engine 14, and/or corresponding circuitry. The status may include output of a knock
sensor, a fault with a knock sensor, a fault with corresponding knock sensor circuitry,
quality of a knock sensor signal, and other knock sensor system status indicators. A
fault with a knock sensor and/or corresponding circuitry may include a short circuit,
an open circuit, or an improperly functioning circuit. A quality status may include
signal levels, noise levels, signal-to-noise ratios, interference levels and other signal
quality indicators. A detailed example of a knock sensor diagnostic system that may
be used in replacement of the knock sensor diagnostic system 12 is shown and
described with respect to FIG. 2.
[0019] The vehicle 11 includes an engine 14 that has cylinders 15. Each
cylinder 15 may have one or more intake valves and/or exhaust valves. The engine
14 is configured with a fuel injection system 16 and an ignition system 18. An output
of the engine 14 is coupled by a torque converter 22, a transmission 24, a driveshaft
26 and a differential 28 to driven front wheels 30. The transmission 24 may, for
example, be a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a step-gear automatic
transmission. The transmission 24 is controlled by a vehicle control module 20.
Another control module, for example, a transmission control module may be used

alone or in combination with the control module 20 in other embodiments to control
the transmission 24.
[0020] An electronic throttle controller (ETC) 36, or a cable-driven throttle,
adjusts a throttle plate 38 that is located adjacent to an inlet of an intake manifold 40.
The adjustment is based upon a position of an accelerator pedal 42 and a throttle
control algorithm that is executed by the control module 20 The throttle 38 adjusts
output torque that drives the wheels 30. An accelerator pedal sensor 44 generates
a pedal position signal that is output to the control module 20 based on a position of
the accelerator pedal 42. A position of a brake pedal 46 is sensed by a brake pedal
sensor or switch 48, which generates a brake pedal position signal that is output to
the control module 20.
[0021] Other sensor inputs collectively indicated by reference number 50
and used by the control module 20 include an engine speed signal 52, a vehicle
speed signal 54, an intake manifold pressure signal 56, a throttle position signal 58,
a transmission throttle signal 60, transmission pulley speed signals 62, 64 and
manifold air temperature signal 66. The sensor input signals 52-66 are respectively
generated by engine speed sensor 53, vehicle speed sensor 55, intake manifold
pressure sensor 57, throttle position sensor 59, transmission throttle sensor 61,
pulley sensors 63, 65, and temperature sensor 67. The transmission throttle signal
60 indicates throttle pressure in the transmission 24. The pulley speed signals 62, 64
indicate transmission input and output pulley speeds. The temperature signal 66
indicates air temperature in the intake manifold 40. Other sensors may also be
included.

[0022] A knock sensor 13, e.g., an accelerometer, is mounted on the
engine 14 and senses combustion detonation and engine knock in one or more of
the cylinders 15. The knock sensor 13 provides a knock sensor signal 70 to the
control module 20 that indicates extent of sensed engine knocking. Knock detection
in the vehicle 11 may be performed, however, using techniques, devices and/or
methods other than by use of the knock sensor 13. For example, engine parameters
that are sensed and determined, via components other than a knock sensor, may be
used to indirectly determine whether knock is present.
[0023] Referring now also to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram and
schematic view of a knock sensor diagnostic system 12" is shown. The knock
sensor diagnostic system 12' includes one or more knock sensors 13' and an engine
control module (ECM) 100. Each knock sensor 13' is part of a knock sensor circuit
102. The ECM 100 may be part of the vehicle control module 20 or may be a
separate stand alone control module. The ECM 100 includes an ECM
microprocessor 104, a biasing circuit 106, a low-speed input circuit 108, an output
test circuit 110, and a high-speed input circuit 111.
[0024] The ECM microprocessor 104 may be in the form of or included as
part of an integrated circuit (IC) chip. Although the ECM microprocessor 104 is
shown having a particular number of inputs and outputs, additional inputs and
outputs, such as inputs and outputs dedicated to knock sensor control, monitoring,
and diagnostics, may be incorporated. The ECM may include a filter 112, a Fast
Fourier Transform (FFT) device 113, and a digital signal processor (DSP) 114. The
filter 112 may be a multiple order infinite impulse response (MR) filter or some other

filter. The filter 112 and the FFT 113 filter and convert a high-speed input signal 117
from a time domain representation to a frequency domain representation. The DSP
114 may be used to implement the filter and FFT functions in digital format.
[0025] The biasing circuit 106 and low-speed input circuit 108 are directed
to detection of a short circuit within the knock sensor 131 and/or associated circuitry.
The output test circuit 110 and high-speed input circuit 111 are directed to detection
of an open circuit within the knock sensor 131 and/or associated circuitry. The high-
speed input circuit 111 is also directed to the detection of engine knock.
[0026] The ECM 100 has input/output (I/O) terminals 115, which are
coupled to the knock sensor circuit 102. For the example shown, the knock sensor
circuit 102 includes the knock sensor 13', which has knock sensor high and low-side
terminals 116, 118. The knock sensor terminals 116, 118 may perform as input
and/or output terminals. The knock sensor 13' may include, for example, a
piezoelectric crystal that is mounted on a metal can, which picks up audible noise.
The knock sensor 131 may include other elements or devices that allow for the
detection of engine knock.
[0027] The biasing circuit 106 applies a bias voltage across the knock
sensor terminals 116, 118. The biasing circuit 106 may include a first resistor R1, a
second resistor R2, and a third resistor R3, which are coupled in series. The first
resistor R1 is coupled between a voltage supply Vs and the sensor high-side
terminal 116. The second resistor R2 is coupled between the first resistor R1 and
the third resistor R3. The second resistor R2 is also coupled across the knock

sensor terminals 116, 118. The third resistor R3 is coupled between the second
resistor R2 and the ground reference 120.
[0028] The low-speed input circuit 108 may perform as a low pass filter
and may include a fourth resistor R4 and a first capacitor C1. The fourth resistor R4
is coupled between the low-side terminal 118 and a low-speed input 107 of the ECM
microprocessor 104. A first end of the first capacitor C1 is coupled to both the fourth
resistor R4 and the low-speed input 107. The other end of the first capacitor C1 is
coupled to the ground reference 120. The low-speed input circuit 108 provides a
low-speed input signal 109 to the ECM microprocessor 104.
[0029] The output test circuit 110 provides a diagnostic test signal 130 to
the knock sensor 13". The test signal 130 may be provided to the high-side of the
knock sensor 13'. The output test circuit 110 may include a fifth resistor R5, which is
coupled between the high-side terminal 116 and a diagnostic test output 132 of the
ECM microprocessor 104.
[0030] The high-speed input circuit 111 includes an alternating current
(AC) coupling circuit 134, a bias/gain network 136 and an amplifier 138. The AC
coupling circuit removes direct current (DC) bias and may include a second
capacitor C2 and a third capacitor C3. The second capacitor C2 is coupled between
the high-side terminal 116 and the bias/gain network 136. The third capacitor C3 is
coupled between the low-side terminal 118 and the bias/gain network 136. The
capacitors C2, C3 AC couple a knock sensor signal on ECM terminals 115 to the
bias/gain network 136. This removes the static bias applied by the bias circuit 106.

[0031] The bias/gain network 136 may include bias and gain adjusting
elements that are used to adjust the bias and gain of signals received from the
knock sensor 13'. The bias/gain network 136 provides a differential output 138 that
is provided to inverting and non-inverting inputs 140, 142 of the amplifier 138.
Output 144 of the amplifier 138 is coupled to a high-speed analog-to-digital
converter (ADC) input 146 of the ECM microprocessor 104. A feedback signal path
148 is provided between the bias/gain network 136 and the output 144.
[0032] Note that the low-speed and high-speed designations, with regards
to the inputs 107, 146, correspond to the reception of low or high frequency signals.
The low-speed and high-speed designations indicate low-speed and high-speed
sampling and processing rates for inputs 107, 146 by the microprocessor 104.
[0033] The above-described elements of the knock sensor diagnostic
system 12" are provided for example purposes only. Other elements may be
included and/or replace the above-described elements. As an example, a knock IC
that includes the ECM microprocessor 104 may include amplifiers, filters, a rectifier,
an integrator, an A/D converter, a sample and hold device, and other analog and/or
digital circuit elements.
[0034] Referring now also to FIG. 3, a flow diagram illustrating a method of
operating a knock sensor diagnostic system is shown. Although the following steps
are described primarily with respect to operation of the knock sensor diagnostic
system of FIG. 2, the steps may be easily modified to apply to other embodiments of
the present invention.

[0035] In step 200, the bias circuit 106 applies a bias voltage to the knock
sensor 13'. As an example, the supply voltage Vs may be 5v. In step 202, the knock
sensor 13" generates a knock sensor output signal, which has a high-side
component and a low-side component. The high and low side components are
provided on the high and low side output terminals 116, 118.
[0036] In step 204, the low-speed input circuit 108 filters the knock sensor
output signal or a component thereof to generate the low-speed input signal 109. In
the example embodiment of FIG. 2, the low-speed input circuit 108 filters the low-
side component and removes high frequencies, such as noise. Use of a low-pass
filter prevents false diagnosis due to high frequency signals. The low-pass filter
may, as an example, have a cutoff frequency of approximately 100-200Hz. The low-
speed circuit 108 may also remove frequency components associated with engine
knock.
[0037] In step 206, the ECM microprocessor 104 receives the low-speed
input signal 109, which is based on the applied bias voltage. In step 208, the ECM
microprocessor 104 generates a first diagnostic signal and/or indicates a short circuit
associated with the knock sensor 13' based on the low-speed input signal 109.
When a short does not exist, a nominal voltage is measured by the ECM
microprocessor 104. When a short circuit does exist, such as a short to ground or a
high-voltage potential on either side of the knock sensor 13', a substantial change in
the nominal voltage occurs. This change is detected by the ECM microprocessor
104, which can then make a robust diagnostic decision. The high-voltage potential
may, for example, be greater than the supply voltage Vs.

[0038] In step 210, the output test circuit 110 generates and applies the
test signal 130, with a predetermined frequency, to the knock sensor 13*. The test
signal 130 may be in the form of a square wave and applied to the high-side of the
knock sensor 13', as shown in FIG. 2. In one embodiment, the predetermined
frequency is set outside a frequency range associated with knock detection. In
another embodiment, the predetermined frequency is set outside a frequency range
associated with engine background noise. In yet another embodiment, the
predetermined frequency is set at approximately 20-21 kHz or approximately 20.5
kHz, which is greater than an engine knock frequency window of approximately 5-18
kHz and a normal engine noise frequency range. There is significant separation
between the predetermined frequency and the engine knock frequency window.
Note that the predetermined frequency may be greater than or less than the
frequency ranges associated with engine knock and engine noise. Since the
predetermined frequency is greater than or outside a frequency range that is
associated with engine knock detection, the test signal 130 does not affect engine
knock detection. Step 210 may be performed continuously.
[0039] In step 212, the knock sensor 13' generates a knock sensor output
signal, similar to step 202. Steps 202 and 212 may be performed simultaneously,
may be performed as a single step, and/or may be performed continuously.
[0040] In step 214, the bias/gain network 136 adjusts bias and gain of the
knock sensor signal after AC coupling by the AC coupling circuit 134. In step 216,
the amplifier 138 amplifies the differential output signal from the bias/gain network
136. In step 218, output of the amplifier 138 or the high-speed input signal 117 is

received by the ECM microprocessor 104. The high-speed input signal 117 is based
on the test signal 130.
[0041] In step 220, the filter 112 filters the high-speed input signal 117.
The filter 112 removes signals having frequency above the predetermined
frequency. In step 222, the FFT device 113 generates a frequency domain signal
that is based on the filtered high-speed input signal 117.
[0042] In step 224, the ECM microprocessor 104 generates an engine
knock signal that is based on the frequency domain signal. Engine knock intensity is
calculated, which is based on the knock sensor signal. An individual knock sensor
and knock IC can be used to detect knock from each cylinder of an engine. Steps
220-224 may be performed within the ECM microprocessor 104, via dedicated
software. Steps 220-224 may also be performed via hardware.
[0043] In step 226, generating a second diagnostic signal and/or indicates
an open circuit associated with the knock sensor 13' based on the high-speed input
signal 117 and/or normal engine audible levels, which may include background
noise.
[0044] In operation of the knock sensor diagnostic system 12', open circuit
diagnosis at low engine speeds may be performed by applying the test signal, as
described above. Low engine speeds may refer to speeds at approximately less
than a predetermined engine speed, such as 3000 revolutions-per-minute (RPM).
The test signal passes through capacitance of the knock sensor 13'. The test signal
is detected on both terminals 116, 118 and is substantially the same on both
terminals 116, 118. Thus, at the terminals 116, 118 the test signal is referred to as a

common mode signal. The common mode signal is rejected by the amplifier 138,
which results in only a small differential signal at the applied frequency. An open
circuit in the knock sensor 13' or associated circuit converts the test signal into a
differential mode signal, which is detected by the amplifier 138. As a result, there is
an increase in amplitude of the high-speed input signal 117, which is robustly
detected by the ECM microprocessor 104 after signal processing. Thus, similar
processing is used for both normal engine knock detection operation, as well as
open circuit detection. Note that the test signal may be applied and amplitude
thereof may be detected at any engine operating speed or over an entire engine
speed range.
[0045] At high engine speeds, such as at speeds at or equal to
approximately the predetermined engine speed, engine background noise may
begin to "drown out" the applied test signal. This is true when the predetermined
frequency is not outside the frequency range of the engine noise. At speeds above
the predetermined engine speed, signal levels from the engine background noise
allow for a robust detection of an open circuit. When an open circuit is present the
ECM microprocessor 104 is unable to detect the engine background noise via the
knock sensor 13". Thus, at high engine speeds, the ECM microprocessor may
determine the presence of an open circuit due to lack of engine background noise
detection. Approximate engine background noise levels may be stored and
compared with current detected background noise levels to determine presence of
an open circuit.

[0046] Thus, the high-speed signal channel may be used for open circuit
diagnosis over low and high engine speeds. High-speed open circuit detection may
be based on the test signal and/or on the lack of engine background noise,
depending upon whether the predetermined frequency is within the frequency range
of the engine background noise. The test signal can be applied continuously without
interfering with the normal engine knock detection operation.
[0047] The above-described steps are meant to be illustrative examples;
the steps may be performed sequentially, synchronously, simultaneously,
continuously, or in a different order depending upon the application.
[0048] The disclosed embodiments herein provide a knock sensor
diagnostic system that provides open circuit detection and is robust with respect to
sensor variation for short circuit detection. The embodiments allows for up-
integration of a variable gain amplifier into processors.
[0049] Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing
description that the broad teachings of the present invention can be implemented in
a variety of forms. Therefore, while this invention has been described in connection
with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the invention should not be so
limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon
a study of the drawings, specification, and the following claims.

CLAIMS
What is claimed is:
1. A knock sensor diagnostic system comprising:
a knock sensor;
a bias circuit that applies a bias voltage to said knock sensor; and
a first input circuit that receives a first input signal based on said bias
voltage; and
a control module that indicates a short circuit associated with said
knock sensor based on said first input signal.
2. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 1 wherein said first input
circuit comprises a low pass filter that filters an output of said knock sensor to
generate said first input signal.
3. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 2 wherein said low pass
filter comprises:
a resistance that is coupled between said knock sensor and said
control module; and
a capacitance that is coupled between said resistance and a reference
ground.

4. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 1 wherein said first input
circuit is coupled to a low-side of said knock sensor.
5. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 1 further comprising:
a signal generator that generates and applies a test signal with a
predetermined frequency to said knock sensor; and
a second input circuit that receives a second input signal based on
said test signal,
wherein said control module indicates an open circuit associated with
said knock sensor based on said second input signal.
6. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 5 wherein said signal
generator is coupled to a high-side of said knock sensor.
7. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 5 wherein said bias
voltage is a direct current (DC) bias voltage.
8. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 5 wherein said second
input circuit comprises an alternating current coupling circuit that removes said bias
voltage from a knock sensor output signal from said knock sensor.

9. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 8 wherein said
alternating current coupling circuit comprises:
a first capacitance coupled to a high-side of said knock sensor; and
a second capacitance that is coupled to a low-side of said knock
sensor.
10. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 5 further comprising:
a filter that generates a filtered signal based on said second input
signal;
a Fast Fourier Transform device that generates a frequency domain
signal based on said second input signal; and
a signal processor that generates an engine knock signal based on
said frequency domain signal.
11. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 1 wherein said bias
circuit comprises:
a first resistance that is coupled between a voltage supply and a first
terminal of said knock sensor;
a second resistance that is coupled across said knock sensor; and
a third resistance that is coupled between a second terminal of said
knock sensor and a ground reference terminal.

12. A method of operating a knock sensor diagnostic system comprising:
applying a bias voltage to a knock sensor;
receiving a first input signal based on said bias voltage;
generating and applying a test signal, with a predetermined frequency,
to said knock sensor;
receiving a second input signal based on said test signal; and
indicating a short circuit associated with said knock sensor based on
said first input signal and indicating an open circuit associated with said knock
sensor based on said second input signal.
13. The method of claim 12 further comprising:
filtering said second input signal;
generating a frequency domain signal based on said filtered second
input signal; and
generating an engine knock signal based said frequency domain
signal.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising filtering an output of said
knock sensor to generate said first input signal.

15. A knock sensor diagnostic system comprising:
a knock sensor;
a signal generator that generates and applies a test signal with a
predetermined frequency to said knock sensor;
an input circuit that receives an input signal based on said test signal; and
a control module that indicates an open circuit associated with said knock
sensor based on said input signal.
16. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said test
signal is continuously applied to said knock sensor during operation of said knock
sensor.
17. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said test
signal wherein said control module detects amplitude of said test signal engine
operating speeds associated with and engine.
18. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said test
signal has a frequency level that is outside a frequency range associated with at
least one of knock detection and engine background noise.
19. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said control
module detects amplitude of said test signal when an engine speed is less than or
equal to a predetermined speed.

20. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said control
module detects background noise when an engine speed is greater than a
predetermined speed, and wherein said control module indicates an open circuit
associated with said knock sensor based on said background noise.
21. The knock sensor diagnostic system of claim 15 wherein said control
module detects amplitude of said test signal over the entire engine speed range.

A knock sensor diagnostic system may include a knock sensor. A bias circuit
applies a bias voltage to the knock sensor. An input circuit receives an input signal
based on the bias voltage. A control module indicates a short circuit associated with
the knock sensor based on the input signal. A knock sensor diagnostic system may
also or alternatively include a signal generator that generates and applies a test
signal with a predetermined frequency to the knock sensor. Another input circuit
receives another input signal that is based on the test signal. A control module
indicates an open circuit associated with the knock sensor based on the other input
signal.

Documents:

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-ABSTRACT.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-CLAIMS.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-FORM-1.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-FORM-2.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(05-05-2014)-FORM-3.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-ABSTRACT.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-ANNEXURE TO FORM 3.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-CLAIMS.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-CORRESPONDENCE-1.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-CORRESPONDENCE.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-DESCRIPTION (COMPLETE).pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-DRAWINGS.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-FORM-1.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-FORM-2.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-FORM-5.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-OTHERS.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-(19-08-2013)-PETITION UNDER RULE 137.pdf

1484-kol-2008-abstract.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-ASSIGNMENT.pdf

1484-kol-2008-claims.pdf

1484-KOL-2008-CORRESPONDENCE 1.1.pdf

1484-kol-2008-correspondence.pdf

1484-kol-2008-description (complete).pdf

1484-kol-2008-drawings.pdf

1484-kol-2008-form 1.pdf

1484-kol-2008-form 2.pdf

1484-kol-2008-form 3.pdf

1484-kol-2008-form 5.pdf

1484-kol-2008-gpa.pdf

1484-kol-2008-priority document.pdf

1484-kol-2008-specification.pdf


Patent Number 263297
Indian Patent Application Number 1484/KOL/2008
PG Journal Number 43/2014
Publication Date 24-Oct-2014
Grant Date 17-Oct-2014
Date of Filing 29-Aug-2008
Name of Patentee GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
Applicant Address 300 GM RENAISSANCE CENTER, DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48265-3000
Inventors:
# Inventor's Name Inventor's Address
1 MARILYN L. KINDERMANN 3625 OLD PLANK ROAD, MILFORD, MICHIGAN 48381
2 ANTHONY L. MARKS 23091 ARGYLE STREET NOVI, MI 48374
3 ROBERT J. HORNER 9157 HORSESHOE BEND, DEXTER, MICHIGAN 48130
4 THOMAS A SZPAKOWSKI 9515 BEACH PARK DRIVE SOUTH LYON, MICHIGAN 48178
5 BRIAN CARL NELSON 7301 STOLL ROAD, BATH, MI 48808
6 KARL T. KIEBEL 1410 CHEROKEE AVENUE ROYAL OAK, MICHIGAN 48067
7 CRAIG M. SAWDON 2037 EPLEY ROAD, WILLIAMSTON, MICHIGAN 48895
PCT International Classification Number G01L23/22; G01L23/00
PCT International Application Number N/A
PCT International Filing date
PCT Conventions:
# PCT Application Number Date of Convention Priority Country
1 11/853178 2007-09-11 U.S.A.