Modular discrete optimal MIMO controller for a VCT Engine

In early computer control, only one centralized computer was responsible for executing the algorithms for a particular system. Increasingly, computer control algorithms reside inside individual system components in a distributed fashion. Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) is an appealing feature for automotive engines because it allows optimization of the cam timing over a wide range of operating conditions. In this paper, a method to distribute the discrete MIMO controller for the VCT Engine to improve the component swapping modularity of the VCT Actuator and the EGO Sensor components using network communications is presented. First a discrete LQG controller was designed then this controller was distributed to the ECU, the VCT controller and the EGO sensor controller in order to improve the component swapping modularity of the system. A control oriented pre-optimization technique, which simplifies the optimization problem and a candidate solution was devised to maximize component modularity.