In the last decade, the drastic strengthening of engine emission regulations has conducted the automotive industry towards more and more sophisticated engine control strategies requiring more and more sensor inputs and actuator outputs. The testing and setting up of the ECUs implementing such strategies becomes more and more difficult, requiring numerous engine tests on test benches.
ECUTEST is a hardware and software package from KADRA CONSULTANTS that offers the following features:
Simulation of sensors including variable reluctance sensor, lambda sensor, knock sensor…
Measurement of output signals (injection, ignition, EGR…) timing and amplitude.
A predefined test pattern can be replayed on the ECU to perform end of line testing.
A real-time model can be used for testing and setting up embedded closed loop strategies.
The present paper will cover the implementation of a real-time SI engine model on ECUTEST. The model has been developed using the Matlab/Simulink software package and Real Time Workshop for building the real-time code. The model consists of several submodels:
Intake manifold dynamics.
Wall wetting dynamics.
Crankshaft torque balance.
Global engine characteristics (volumetric efficiency, MBT map, mechanical efficiency…).
This model is representative enough to substitute to a real engine and connect to a modern ECU. In this case, even the closed loop strategies can be tested. Therefore, ECUTEST can be used to evaluate new strategies in the early stages of the development process, without the high cost of an engine test bench.