Flatness-based nonlinear embedded control and filtering for spark-ignited engines

Highly efficient embedded control units for transportation means make use of advanced nonlinear control and estimation methods. In this research article a new nonlinear filtering and control method is applied to spark ignited (SI) engines. The proposed SI engine’s control scheme requires the implementation of differential flatness theory together with a new nonlinear filtering approach (known as Derivative-free nonlinear Kalman Filtering). The considered method succeeds the efficient control of the SI engine parameters such as intake pressure and turn speed. To bring the control loop at a working stage additional problems have to be solved. These are for instance that (i) certain variables of the engine’s state vector cannot be measured directly (e.g. the ones associated with input pressure), (ii) there are inaccuracies in the dynamic model of the SI engine while external perturbations and disturbances (such as friction torques) are exerted to the engine. The performance of the proposed control scheme is ...