On Learning Machines for Engine Control

Abstract

SummaryThe chapter deals with neural networks and learning machines for engine control applications, particularly in modeling for control. In the first section, basic features of engine control in a layered engine management architecture are reviewed. The use of neural networks for engine modeling, control and diagnosis is then briefly described. The need for descriptive models for model-based control and the link between physical models and black box models are emphasized by the grey box approach discussed in this chapter. The second section introduces the neural models frequently used in engine control, namely, MultiLayer Perceptrons (MLP) and Radial Basis Function (RBF) networks. A more recent approach, known as Support Vector Regression (SVR), to build models in kernel expansion form is also presented. The third section is devoted to examples of application of these models in the context of turbocharged Spark Ignition (SI) engines with Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT). This specific context is representative of modern engine control problems. In the first example, the airpath control is studied, where open loop neural estimators are combined with a dynamical polytopic observer. The second example considers modeling the in-cylinder residual gas fraction by Linear Programming SVR (LP-SVR) based on a limited amount of experimental data and a simulator built from prior knowledge. Each example demonstrates that models based on first principles and neural models must be joined together in a grey box approach to obtain effective and acceptable results.