Yes / This paper presents the development and implementation of an Analytical Target Cascading (ATC) Multi-disciplinary Design Optimisation (MDO) framework for the steady state engine calibration optimisation problem. The case is made that the MDO / ATC offers a convenient framework for the engine calibration optimisation problem based on steady state engine test data collected at specified engine speed / load points, which is naturally structured on 2 hierarchical levels: the “Global” level, associated with performance over a drive cycle, and “Local” level, relating to engine operation at each speed / load point. The case study of a gasoline engine equipped with variable camshaft timing (VCT) was considered to study the application of the ATC framework to a calibration optimisation problem. The paper describes the analysis and mathematical formulation of the VCT calibration optimisation as an ATC framework, and its Matlab implementation with gradient based and evolutionary optimisation algorithms. The results and performance of the ATC are discussed comparatively with the conventional two-stage approach to steady state calibration optimisation. The main conclusion from this research is that ATC offers a powerful and efficient approach for engine calibration optimisation, delivering better solutions at both “Global” and “Local” levels. Further advantages of the ATC framework is that it is flexible and scalable to the complexity of the calibration problem, and enables calibrator preference to be incorporated a priori in the optimisation problem formulation, delivering important time saving for the overall calibration development process. / The research work presented in this paper was funded by UK Technology Strategy Board (TSB) through the CREO (Carbon Reduction through Engine Optimisation) project.

No / This paper presents the development of an Analytical Target Cascading (ATC) Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) framework for a steady-state engine calibration optimization problem. The implementation novelty of this research is the use of the ATC framework to formulate the complex multi-objective engine calibration problem, delivering a considerable enhancement compared to the conventional 2-stage calibration optimization approach [1]. A case study of a steady-state calibration optimization of a Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine was used for the calibration problem analysis as ATC. The case study results provided useful insight on the efficiency of the ATC approach in delivering superior calibration solutions, in terms of “global” system level objectives (e.g. improved fuel economy and reduced particulate emissions), while meeting “local” subsystem level requirements (such as combustion stability and exhaust gas temperature constraints). The ATC structure facilitated the articulation of engineering preference for smooth calibration maps via the ATC linking variables, with the potential to deliver important time saving for the overall calibration development process.

Automotive engines are becoming increasingly technically complex and associated legal emissions standards more restrictive, making the task of identifying optimum actuator settings to use significantly more difficult. Given these challenges, this research aims to develop a process for engine calibration optimisation by exploiting advanced mathematical methods. Validation of this work is based upon a case study describing a steady-state Diesel engine calibration problem. The calibration optimisation problem seeks an optimal combination of actuator settings that minimises fuel consumption, while simultaneously meeting or exceeding the legal emissions constraints over a specified drive cycle. As another engineering target, the engine control maps are required as smooth as possible. The Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation (MDO) Frameworks have been studied to develop the optimisation process for the steady state Diesel engine calibration optimisation problem. Two MDO strategies are proposed for formulating and addressing this optimisation problem, which are All At Once (AAO), Collaborative Optimisation. An innovative MDO formulation has been developed based on the Collaborative Optimisation application for Diesel engine calibration. Form the MDO implementations, the fuel consumption have been significantly improved, while keep the emission at same level compare with the bench mark solution provided by sponsoring company. More importantly, this research has shown the ability of MDO methodologies that manage and organize the Diesel engine calibration optimisation problem more effectively.

Automotive engines are becoming increasingly technically complex and associated legal emissions standards more restrictive, making the task of identifying optimum actuator settings to use significantly more difficult. Given these challenges, this research aims to develop a process for engine calibration optimisation by exploiting advanced mathematical methods. Validation of this work is based upon a case study describing a steady-state Diesel engine calibration problem. The calibration optimisation problem seeks an optimal combination of actuator settings that minimises fuel consumption, while simultaneously meeting or exceeding the legal emissions constraints over a specified drive cycle. As another engineering target, the engine control maps are required as smooth as possible. The Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation (MDO) Frameworks have been studied to develop the optimisation process for the steady state Diesel engine calibration optimisation problem. Two MDO strategies are proposed for formulating and addressing this optimisation problem, which are All At Once (AAO), Collaborative Optimisation. An innovative MDO formulation has been developed based on the Collaborative Optimisation application for Diesel engine calibration. Form the MDO implementations, the fuel consumption have been significantly improved, while keep the emission at same level compare with the bench mark solution provided by sponsoring company. More importantly, this research has shown the ability of MDO methodologies that manage and organize the Diesel engine calibration optimisation problem more effectively. / Jaguar Land Rover