Predictive Engine RPM Control for Torque Response

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing engine control systems face challenges in achieving faster response times and improved control accuracy, particularly in adjusting torque output efficiently while maintaining system stability and fuel consumption.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a model predictive control (MPC) module that uses least-square fitting techniques to predict engine speed based on recent measurements, allowing for the calculation of target values for engine actuators such as throttle, wastegate, and EGR valves to optimize torque output and fuel efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If model predictive control (MPC) is used to control engine actuators, then control accuracy is improved, but response time increases due to computational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-calculates and stores optimal control parameters and cost function weights in lookup tables before runtime. During actual control operations, the system quickly retrieves pre-computed values based on current operating conditions, avoiding time-consuming real-time optimization calculations while maintaining MPC control accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates simplified copies of the full MPC control algorithm by pre-computing control strategies for various operating conditions and storing them in lookup tables. This allows the system to use lightweight table lookups instead of executing the complete computational MPC algorithm in real-time, significantly reducing response time while preserving control performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Measurement precision

If more recent engine rpm measurements are used in least-squares fitting, then prediction accuracy is improved, but computational load increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidcomputational load
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a limited set of 3-4 recent rpm measurements for least-squares fitting instead of using all available historical data. This partial action approach provides sufficient prediction accuracy for control purposes while keeping the computational load manageable for real-time execution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Use of energy by moving object

If dynamic adjustment of engine parameters is performed, then fuel efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple control functions into a unified MPC framework that simultaneously optimizes throttle position, wastegate control, EGR valve positioning, and fuel injection timing. By merging these control tasks into a single integrated system with a comprehensive cost function, the patent achieves coordinated optimization of fuel efficiency and emissions without requiring separate complex control systems for each parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS10415491B2Use of predicted RPM in multi-variable engine control with least-square techniques
Publication Date: 2019.09.17 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US10415491B2 patent drawing
  • US10415491B2 patent drawing
  • US10415491B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An engine control system for a vehicle, includes a model predictive control (MPC) module that identifies sets of possible target values based on an engine torque request, determines predicted operating parameters for the sets of possible target values, determines cost values for the sets of possible target values, selects one of the sets of possible target values based on the cost values; and sets target values based on the possible target values of the selected one of the sets; and a first actuator module that controls a first engine actuator based on a first one of the target values. The MPC module determines at least one of the predicted operating parameters at a future point in time based on a predicted value of engine rpm, which is determined based on a plurality of recent engine rpm measurements.