As the use of electronics increases in vehicles of all kinds, multiple manufacturer compatibility issues begin to dominate the system integration. Functionality of electronics is often repeated and duplicated, increasing costs. In order to reduce costs it is some times necessary to combine the functionality of multiple units into a single package.
With the combination of power amplifier electronics and microprocessors, Agile has been able to integrate several vehicle functions into an integrated package. A thorough understanding of the vehicle powertrain dynamics is a critical requirement in developing fully integrated control electronics. Development of integrated electronics begins with a full vehicle model and simulation, followed by prototyping with known electronics before a cost optimized design is proposed. Discussion in this paper will cover full vehicle simulation and assumptions to full vehicle performance and results.
Optimization of software has allowed such functions as transmission, spark, and governor control into a single unit that interfaces with all user functions. The use of these electronics is discussed within the context of internal combustion engines with variable ratio transmissions.