Implementation of a Model Predictive Controller in a Spark-Ignition Engine

Sammanfattning: The propulsion of the spark-ignition engine has been investigated and developed during the past century to improve driveability, minimize fuel consumption and emissions, resulting in highly engineered and computerized powertrains. Well balanced engine maps containing coordinated set-points and model-based information sharing have solved the cross-coupling between different control loops. During transitions between the operating conditions a disadvantageous transient behavior that affects the engine performance may occur. By implementing an MPC as a superior controller a nearly optimal control solution was accomplished. A digital twin of the SI engine was designed through collected measurements and system modeling. The twin made it possible to investigate and elaborate different cost functions in a simulation environment before applying the controller in real-time. By utilizing MPC together with the engine maps a strong relationship between the throttle and iVVT actuator was achieved, which removed the cross-coupling between the actuator control loops and reduced the unfavorable transient behavior.