Engine Oil Temperature Estimation as an Example of a Virtual Sensor Application

This article consists in a study of virtual sensors used in control actions of Otto engines, aiming cost reduction alternatives to its management. In order to understand the development steps, an estimator of the oil temperature during the engine operation is proposed. A physical model representing the oil circuit and the equations to simulate the heat exchange processes are suggested. Experimental approaches for the model parameters calibration and the viability test are also presented. Finally, the model limitations and the further necessary steps to implement a new function executed by the engine electronic control unit are presented.