Automated model-based controller design for an electronic throttle

Electronic throttles are used to adjust the air mass flow in gasoline engines. Due to friction, return spring non-linearities and parameter variations on the one hand and requirements for precise positioning of the throttle plate on the other hand, the controller design is a non-trivial task. Usually controllers are parameterised by trial-and-error which is very time consuming and error-prone. We present a method for the automated model-based design of a controller. The non-linearities are compensated by means of a disturbance observer. It is shown that the controller is robust with respect to model uncertainties. Thus no adaptation of the controller is necessary. The controller features a simple structure and allows for an automated design using the method of pole placement.