MPC Engine Torque Control via Module Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional engine control systems for internal combustion engines lack accuracy in controlling engine output torque and fail to provide rapid responses to control signals, as well as coordinate torque control among various devices affecting engine output.
Innovation Solution
An engine control system incorporating a torque requesting module, torque conversion module, setpoint control module, model predictive control (MPC) module, and actuator modules to generate and control air and exhaust setpoints, throttle, wastegate, EGR, and valve phasing, using MPC to select target values based on predicted parameters and costs to achieve precise torque control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional engine control systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the torque control accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into multiple specialized modules: torque requesting module, torque conversion module, setpoint control module, MPC module, and multiple actuator modules. Each module handles specific control functions independently, enabling precise torque control through coordinated action of discrete functional blocks rather than a monolithic controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic model predictive control that continuously adapts control targets based on real-time engine operating conditions. The MPC module uses a dynamic engine model to predict future states and adjusts control setpoints dynamically, allowing the system to respond adaptively to changing conditions while maintaining high torque control accuracy.
2Speed
If traditional engine control systems are used, then the device complexity is low, but the response speed to control signals is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations by pre-computing torque conversion relationships and maintaining a dynamic engine model ready for prediction. The MPC module prepares multiple control scenarios in advance and selects the optimal control action before it is needed, enabling faster response to control signals without requiring complex real-time computations during transient events.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where actual engine parameters (intake manifold pressure, air mass flow, exhaust gas recirculation rates) are monitored and fed back to the MPC module. This feedback mechanism allows the system to rapidly detect deviations from target torque and adjust control actuator positions accordingly, significantly improving response speed.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional engine control systems are used, then the control system is simple, but the coordination among various torque control devices is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges control of multiple torque-affecting devices (throttle valve, wastegate, EGR valve, variable valve timing mechanisms) into a unified MPC control framework. The MPC module simultaneously optimizes all these actuators based on a single torque target, ensuring coordinated action that achieves precise torque control while accounting for interactions between different control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The MPC module serves as a universal controller that manages multiple diverse actuators with different response characteristics and control ranges. It provides a unified control strategy that adapts to various operating conditions and device states, enabling coordinated torque control across throttle, boost pressure, exhaust recirculation, and valve timing systems through a single multi-functional control brain.
Data Source
AI summary
A torque requesting module generates a first torque request for a spark ignition engine based on driver input. A torque conversion module converts the first torque request into a second torque request. A setpoint control module generates air and exhaust setpoints for the spark ignition engine based on the second torque request. A model predictive control (MPC) module identifies sets of possible target values based on the air and exhaust setpoints, generates predicted parameters based on a model of the spark ignition engine and the sets of possible target values, respectively, selects one of the sets of possible target values based on the predicted parameters, and sets target values based on the possible target values of the selected one of the sets. A throttle actuator module controls opening of a throttle valve based on a first one of the target values.