Performance assessment of an optical sensor based ignition controller by computer modelling and simulation

摘要

This paper describes the evaluation of an optical combustion sensor based ignition control system by the modelling and simulation of the engine-sensor-feedback system using Simulink computer software.The work relates to an ongoing research programme to evaluate the potential of optical combustion sensors, specifically with natural gas fuelled power units. The paper reviews the previous work which supported the suitability of this sensor as theprincipal detection sensor in a feedback controlled ignition system. The development of a computer based model of the ignition process is then described which predicts engine torque output based on throttle demand, using the optically sensed feedbacksignal. The model allows different control algorithms to be implemented and evaluated. Simplifications applied to the model are discussed and limitations of the Simulink package are identified.Conclusions are made by presenting example results for several control algorithms and how the simulation has been used to identify potential problems in the chosen ignition control scheme prior to design and application.