Model predictive control of HCCI using variable valve actuation and fuel injection

Control of work output and combustion phasing on a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) engine is essential to realize the benefits of superior efficiency and emissions. This paper presents a model predictive control approach for cycle-by-cycle control of HCCI while respecting constraints on actuators that might exist on a production implementation. The strategy is based on a physical model developed in previous work and uses valve actuation and split fuel injection to achieve the control objectives. In addition, it considers constraints on air–fuel ratio, ensuring that the system stays away from very lean or rich regions. Simulation and experimental results show that the controller works well over a range of conditions, and demonstrate the potential of this approach as a practical cycle-by-cycle control strategy for HCCI.