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The paper deals with model based predictive control of combustion engines. Nonlinear black-box predictive models based on neuro-fuzzy approach are utilized. The structure of the models is optimized within an identification process. The nonlinear models are locally linearized and consequently used for the efficient on-line computation of forthcoming control actions. In desire to respect a fact that the speed of input-output response may vary significantly for different input/output groups, multilevel predictive models are proposed. Predictive control is again applied to approximate the desired behavior of chosen output variables. Potential algebraical constraints between different prediction layers are involved in the control algorithm using quadratic programming. The control scheme is optimized using simplified fast simulation model.

The paper describes experience obtained with a GT-Power code used for a downsized turbocharged gasoline engine modeling. The steady-performance model, calibrated by preliminary experiments, has been modified to the transient response one. Knock limit prediction has been used for compression ratio and boost pressure optimization. New authors′ models have been developed for extrapolation of compressor and turbine maps to cover the field of operation modes during a typical transient response. GT-Power control elements ensured a realistic engine response to accelerator, brake or clutch positions. The Driver element could drive various speed schedules such as maximum acceleration mode, engine braking mode or the European fuel-consumption/emission test.

The paper describes techniques used for optimization of timing, shaping and control of pressure wave exchangers including the prediction of pressure-flow rate characteristics of these devices. BBC Baden and ETH Zürich originally proposed them in 60's using the direct pressure exchange between exhaust gas and fresh air in a narrow channel (the COMPREX® device). A technique allowing COMPREX® pressure exchanger to be simulated in detail in a commercially available 1-D cycle simulation tool has been developed. Before the design of a specific exchanger is started the layout must be carefully optimized concerning distribution gear for both fresh air and exhaust gas. Simulation facilities provided by advanced 1-D codes like GT-Power from Gamma Technologies create a valuable tool to do this task and to find alternative design solutions.

Flow control by fluidic devices - without moving parts - offers advantages of reliability and low cost. As an example of their automobile application based on authors'' long-time experience the paper describes a fluidic valve for switching exhaust gas flow in a NOx absorber into a by-pass during regeneration phase. The unique feature here is the fluidic valve being of monostable and of axisymmetric design, integrated into the absorber body. After development in aerodynamic laboratory, the final design was tested on engine test stand and finally in a car. This proved that the performance under high temperature and pulsation existing in exhaust systems is reliable and promising. Fluidic valves require, however, close matching with aerodynamic load. To optimize the exhaust system layout for the whole load-speed range and reaching minimum counter- pressure, both the components of exhaust system and control strategy have to be properly adopted.

The paper deals with an application of advanced simulation methods to modeling of hydrogen fueled engines. Two models have been applied - 0-D algorithm and CFD. The 0-D model has been based on GT-Power code. The CFD model has been based on Advanced Multizone Eulerian Model representing general method of finite volume. The influence of main engine parameters, e.g. air excess, spark timing, compression ratio, on NOx formation and engine efficiency has been investigated. Both models have been calibrated with experimental data. Examples of results and comparison with experiments are shown. The means of reducing NOx formation are discussed.

The paper describes patterns of algorithms for different innovative levels of design at parametric, configuration and conceptual levels. They can be applied to Computer-aided Engine Design (CED). Data structures, process simulation hierarchy, used modules of engine simulation and needs for their further development are described. An example of advanced thermodynamics modeling of combustion engines is included.

The presented work deals with possibilities of modeling divided combustion chamber using available 1-D/0-D software. It is usable for indirect injection diesel engines, gas SI engines with pre-chambers for very lean mixture ignition, etc. The model solves all layouts where main cylinder is connected to additional volumes. This connection allows for heat and energy transfer between connected parts. The application of standard ROHR functions (Wiebe, etc.) which are normalized to constant fuel mass is limited. A new marker gas concentration algorithm is proposed for the use of empiric ROHR functions. The standard approach (without proposed algorithm) was tested modeling large-bore gas SI engine with pre-chamber where the mixture is ignited and experimental direct injection hydrogen one-cylinder engine with an additional volume between fuel injector and the cylinder itself to protect the injector from very high pressures and temperatures in the cylinder.

The proposed paper deals with thermodynamic optimization of highly flexible ICE (variable compression ratio, intake/exhaust VVA) while comparing e-turbocharging concept with classical one. The e-turbocharging approach is based on idea that compressor/turbine has its own electric machine (motor/generator) and that additional electric energy can be supplied/attached from/to engine crank train. Hence it allows independent control of compressor/turbine. On the other hand, classical approach is based on a standard mechanical connection between turbine and compressor. The whole system (flexible engine + boost device) is optimized under steady operation – low load (BMEP of 4 bar), medium load (BMEP of 13 bar), high load (BMEP of 30, 25 and 18 bar) and maximum load are considered. Moreover, 3 combustion concepts are considered – classical SI and CI, and ideal RCCI. Sensitivity study of selected parameters is performed: e.g., efficiency of electric machine(s), HP exhaust manifold volume.

This article presents results of the Design Assistance System (DASY, will be referred to as a tool in this paper) development and examples of its application for engine concept modeling. The software tool for creating and maintaining knowledge database is being developed at the Czech Technical University in Prague. This tool is targeted to simplify and speed up the concept design process. The targets were met by providing the high level of flexibility along with a simple user interface. Two examples that show interaction of this tool with computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software are presented. One example includes an optimization using implemented genetic algorithm. By using this tool, one can create templates for conserving the knowledge acquired during engine design in the past. It provides hints for the future design tasks by offering a data of similar designs, based on experiments and simulations at different levels of complexity and profoundness.

The paper deals with the investigation of turbocharger optimization procedures using amended 1-D simulation tools. The proposed method uses scaled flow rate/effficiency maps for different sizes of a radial turbine together with a fictitious compressor map. The compressor pressure ratio/efficiency map depends on compressor circumference velocity only and predicts the both compressor specific power and achievable efficiency. At the first stage of optimization, it avoids the problems of reaching choking/surge limits. It enables the designer to find a suitable turbine type under realistic unsteady conditions (pressure pulses in exhaust manifold) concerning turbine flow area. Once the optimization of turbine/compressor impeller diameters is finished, the specific compressor map is selected. The proposed method provides the fast way to the best solution even for the case of a VGT turbine. Additional features have been developed for the representation of scaled turbine and compressor maps.

The paper describes the tool of ICE transient response simulation suitable for incorporation into a predictive engine controller. The model is simplified, thus enhancing the simulation speed but keeping its predictive capability at a reasonable level. The main modules of a code suitable for the near-real-time simulation of engine thermodynamics are described in the paper. They include engine cylinder (incl. simplified pressure trace prediction), fuel injection system, main controllers, both inlet and exhaust manifolds, turbocharger and engine dynamics. The laws of conservation are used to describe any of the thermodynamic/hydrodynamic modules of a model. The method of algebraic re-construction of a pressure trace inside a cylinder has been developed and tested for prediction of engine speed variation. The modular structure of a model allows for the implementation of the current operating principles of ICEs.

Diesel fuel injection process calculations have been performed by means of in-house developed mathematical models. An Eulerian multidimensional code for in-cylinder two-phase flow computations is used in conjunction with a hydrodynamic one-dimensional model of a fuel injection system. The multidimensional model comprehends all basic processes, which play a role in spray formation. The compressible gaseous flow with transport of species is solved together with the flow of dispersed liquid phase using the Eulerian reference frame for both phases. The two-way coupling between the phases in mass, momentum, and energy balances is considered. A detailed description of liquid phase is present, taking into account drop size distribution in terms of the multi-continua approach. The hydrodynamic model capable of simulating common fuel injection systems is used for the rate-of-injection computations to provide realistic boundary conditions to the spray model.

The objective of this paper is to present the results of the GT Power calibration with engine test results of the air loop system technology down selection described in the SAE Paper No. 2012-01-0831. Two specific boosting systems were identified as the preferred path forward: (1) Super-turbo with two speed Roots type supercharger, (2) Super-turbo with centrifugal mechanical compressor and CVT transmission both downstream a Fixed Geometry Turbine. The initial performance validation of the boosting hardware in the gas stand and the calibration of the GT Power model developed is described. The calibration leverages data coming from the tests on a 2 cylinder 2-stroke 0.73L diesel engine. The initial flow bench results suggested the need for a revision of the turbo matching due to the big gap in performance between predicted maps and real data. This activity was performed using Honeywell turbocharger solutions spacing from fixed geometry waste gate to variable nozzle turbo (VNT).

Current vehicles, especially the electric ones, are complex mechatronic devices. The pickup vehicles of small sizes are currently used in transport considerably. They often operate within a repeating scheme of a limited variety of tracks and larger fleets. Thanks to mechatronic design of vehicles and their components and availability of high capacity data connection with computational centers (clouds), there are many means to optimize their performance, both by planning prior the trip and recalculations during the route. Although many aspects of this opportunity were already addressed, the paper shows an approach developed to further increase the range of e-vehicle operation. It is based on prior information about the route profile, traffic density, road conditions, past behaviour, mathematical models of the route, vehicle and dynamic optimization. The most important part of the procedure is performed in the cloud, using both computational power and rich information resources.