A Dynamic Simulation of the Detroit Diesel Electronic Control System for Evaluating Engine and Driveline Interactions

A comprehensive simulation has been developed to predict the dynamic response of truck powertrains which employ Detroit Diesel Allison heavy duty diesel engines equipped with the Detroit Diesel Electronic Control (DDEC) system. DDEC includes electronic unit fuel injectors, relevant sensors and actuators and a microprocessor-based controller, thereby providing for direct electronic control of injection timing and fuel metering. The simulation describes the interactions between the engine, electronic control system and a tandem rear axle driveline. It has been used to investigate the significant torsional dynamic characteristics of the driveline which affect the response of the control system and the driveability of the vehicle. The applicability of dynamic simulation in control system evaluation and in the development of practical control strategies is demonstrated.