An optimization-based approach for the calibration of lookup tables in electronic engine control

This paper discusses the use of a parameter estimation approach for the calibration of electronic engine control software from an industrial perspective. Many functions in the software of automotive electronic engine control units are based on lookup tables. Calibrating, that is, tuning the entries of these lookup tables, is a crucial step in the process of automotive software engineering. At first sight, this corresponds to a standard parameter estimation problem. In the practical application, however, the calibrated parameters have to fulfil additional requirements. These additional requirements are discussed in this paper and it is illustrated how they can be included in an optimization-based calibration process. A software tool is described that has been developed to allow the calibration engineer, without having to be familiar with the mathematical background, to easily formulate these requirements, carry out the optimization, and analyze the results. The steps that are carried out in the optimization-based calibration process are outlined, and the advantages of this approach are discussed