Borg-warner Automotive Gmbh

Michael J Covey

Thomas D Herrington

A solenoid exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve (12) includes a first inductive coil (48) that generates a magnetic field when energized by a signal from a control unit (13). The magnetic field drives a ferromagnetic armature valve (64) open and closed--metering the flow of recovered exhaust gases from an engine exhaust manifold (14) to an engine air intake manifold (16). The exhaust gas flow rate depends upon the amount of current flowing through the first coil (48). The resistance of the first coil (48) is temperature-dependent. Therefore, to reduce changes in coil current and magnetic field strength due to temperature changes, the first coil (48) is connected in series with a thermistor (75) having a temperature coefficient of resistance that is opposite that of the first coil (48). A temperature stable resistor in the form of a second coil (72) is connected across the thermistor (75) to modify the thermistor temperature-response curve to more closely offset that of the first coil (48). The second coil (72) may be disposed adjacent the first coil (48) to generate a magnetic field opposite that of the first coil (48). The opposing field reduces residual magnetism causing the valve (12) to respond to control inputs more positively.

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Dixon, IL, United States of America

Michael J Covey