Multivariable Engine Control Using Combined Humidity and EGR Dilution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional engine control systems fail to accurately control engine output torque due to neglecting external humidity and intake air dilution variables, leading to reduced engine performance and instability across varying EGR and ambient humidity conditions.
Innovation Solution
A multivariable engine control system that uses a processor to determine EGR references, combine humidity and EGR values into a single dilution value, and adjust cam phaser constraints to optimize engine performance while maintaining combustion stability, by implementing algorithms and calibration tables to generate commands for actuators such as cam phasers and the EGR valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional engine control systems are used, then the control structure is simple, but engine output torque control accuracy deteriorates due to neglecting humidity and dilution variables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control variables (cam phasing, EGR, humidity, dilution) into a unified multivariable control system. The controller integrates these previously separate control functions into a single coordinated system, allowing accurate torque control while accounting for all relevant variables simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts multiple parameters (cam phaser position, EGR valve opening, fuel injection timing) based on real-time sensor inputs for humidity and dilution. This enables the controller to optimize torque control accuracy by continuously adapting parameter values according to actual operating conditions.
2Reliability
If traditional engine control systems are used, then the system is easy to operate, but engine performance deteriorates under varying humidity and EGR conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback from humidity sensors and dilution measurements to continuously adjust cam phasing and EGR control. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains combustion stability under varying conditions by automatically compensating for changes in humidity and exhaust gas recirculation levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The multivariable controller performs multiple functions simultaneously: torque control, combustion stability maintenance, humidity compensation, and EGR management. This multi-functional approach ensures reliable operation across diverse operating conditions without requiring separate control systems for each function.
3Productivity
If cam phasing is optimized for torque control, then engine efficiency improves, but combustion stability deteriorates under high humidity and EGR conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts cam phaser positioning based on real-time humidity and dilution measurements. Rather than using fixed cam phasing settings, the controller continuously optimizes cam timing to maintain both high efficiency and combustion stability under varying operating conditions, adapting the phasing strategy as environmental parameters change.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller modifies multiple parameters simultaneously (cam phaser angle, EGR valve position, fuel injection timing) to balance efficiency and stability. By coordinating changes across these parameters, the system achieves optimal torque control and combustion stability even under high humidity and EGR conditions where single-parameter control would fail.
Data Source
AI summary
In exemplary embodiments, methods, and systems for multivariable torque control of a vehicle are provided. The method includes configuring a processor disposed of in a multivariable controller to determine a set of references associated with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) by implementing an algorithm based on engine temperature and at least one reference associated with the EGR to generate commands for the control of a set of actuators; Optimizing at least one cam phase position by the control based on a generated command to apply an appropriate level of engine torque for vehicle propulsion; Restricting an allowable range of cam phases associated with operations of an EGR valve for a set of cams based on amounts of humidity and EGR introduced by the EGR valve during an internal combustion phase of vehicle operation; and providing an amount of propulsion torque by an engine in accordance with instructions provided by the processor.