A Real-Time Combustion Analysis Instrument

A self-contained engine analysis system is described. Engine parameters such as IMEP and instantaneous RPM are computed in real-time for each cylinder. The modular system consists of a tightly coupled processor and multi-channel digital data acquisition system combination. By using a 10 MIPs programmable Digital Signal Processor, real-time calculations can be sustained on production engines at over 6000 RPM. A number of engine analysis algorithms have been developed. The availability of real-time engine measurements and the ability to program the instrument for custom applications results in a powerful tool for both powertrain research and product performance validation.