Functional description

The diesel particulate sensor consists of a measuring probe and evaluation electronics.

Deposited soot particulates form electrical paths between electrodes on which a current flows. This signal is evaluated by the evaluation electronics. From this, the evaluation electronics determines the functional capability of the diesel particulate filter to store particulates.

The evaluation electronics forwards these signals to the Digital Diesel Electronics (DDE). The evaluation electronics of the diesel particulate sensor communicates with the engine control via a local CAN bus.

The measuring probe is regularly regenerated by heating up. The deposited soot particulates are then burnt off.

Fig 1: Evaluation Electronics Of Diesel Particulate Sensor

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.