Algorithm development of CPEMS in a WAVE/MATRIXx simulation environment

The role of the cylinder pressure as an internal engine variable has been increasing in the past decades, since its profile gives an insight into the combustion process. However, direct use of the combustion pressure as the basis of engine management systems (EMSs) and engine control remains to be widely implemented in production vehicles owing to technical constraints. A major hindrance has been the availability of cost-effective and robust pressure sensors that are able to withstand the hash engine operating environment. Recent advances in microprocessor technology and signal processing, as well as increased legislative requirements for on-board diagnosis and emission levels, has rekindled research interest in combustion pressure-based EMSs (CPEMSs). To assess the benefits of this technology, the AENEAS (Application and Evaluation of a Novel EMS based on control Algorithms and Sensors) project was launched by Ricardo Consulting Engineers Ltd., DaimlerChrysler and KISTLER. The aim of the project is to validate CPEMS technology on an automotive vehicle and to ascertain its capability in improving engine efficiency. This paper discusses some of the algorithmic functions realised within the framework of the AENEAS project with an emphasis on the WAVE/MATRIXx simulation environment used in their implementation. The use of WAVE as a real-time engine emulator providing cylinder pressure signals is discussed, and some engine simulation results are presented. Other features of the development, as well as some target implementation issues, are also highlighted