Observers in engine control systems: What is the potential?

Observer technology offers substantial scope to improve engine control system performance. Improved control response, the creation of “virtual” sensors and fault detection and diagnosis are all functional improvements which are offered. A simple fault detection function is a proven concept on a turbocharged diesel engine. Control system observers have an appearance of being complex and there is a natural reluctance on the part of vehicle manufacturers to insert complexity into an engine management system without significant benefits. A single exhaust gas oxygen sensor has been demonstrated to provide multiple cylinder measurements. The demand for single cylinder control, an on-board diagnostics (OBD) mandate and the arrival of robust and cheap hydrocarbon sensors may give enough of a impetus