Computer Simulation of Engine Control Systems -A Tool for Identifying Critical Components and Interactions

Prediction of exhaust emission and fuel consumption rates in vehicle operation based on engine dynamometer data has been an important tool in developing engine control strategies. Such predictions rely on accurate knowledge of important engine parameters such as air/fuel ratio, spark advance, and EGR rate. Each control subsystem (fuel, ignition, EGR) is designed based on assumed characteristics of other subsystems, but when the control system is put together, unexpected interactions can result.

This paper illustrates how computer simulation of engine control systems can, identify such interactions and can predict the sensitivity of emissions and fuel consumption to properties of control system components.