Control system designed to minimize deterioration of exhaust gas sensor for use in diesel engine

摘要

A gas sensor control apparatus for an exhaust gas sensor working to measure a selected component of exhaust gas from a diesel engine. The apparatus consists of a heater to heat the exhaust gas sensor to activate it and a controller working to restrict an operation of the heater in the condition that drops of water are expected to exist in an exhaust system of the engine. The controller determines whether the condition in which the temperature of the exhaust gas sensor is expected to be lower than that of the exhaust gas is met or not based on an operating condition of the diesel engine. When the temperature condition is met, the controller elevates the temperature of the exhaust gas to promote heating of the exhaust gas sensor through the heater, thereby minimizing the deterioration in characteristics or performance of the exhaust gas sensor.