HCCI Operation Control in a Multi-Cylinder Gasoline Engine

In this study, the possibility of real-time HCCI control in a multi-cylinder gasoline engine was examined. Specifically, we applied a multivariate analysis based on an experimental design of quality engineering, and picked out several engine parameters which influence gasoline HCCI combustion stability. We clarified the characteristics of engine parameters in a gasoline HCCI operation area and propose the control concept: The internal EGR control is applied to multi-cylinder control by using the variable valve system, and air-fuel mixture control is applied to each-cylinder injection control while keeping the mixture homogeneous. Combustion conditions and engine out A/F need to be detected and fed back individually for each cylinder. With the proposed concept, it is possible to construct a real-time HCCI control system in a multi-cylinder gasoline engine.