Diesel Engine Efficiency Improvement Through Closed Loop Air-Fuel Ratio Optimization

The objective of this project is to demonstrate the feasibility of optimizing the performance of diesel engines through closed loop electronic control of air management hardware. Optimizing the air/fuel ratio of a turbocharged diesel engine at each speed and load operating point has been proven to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, particularly NOx and particulates. The innovative technology presented in this proposal provides a Technical Abstract system for high speed closed loop air/fuel ratio trimming. A compact, robust sensor based on fiber optic technology used in conjunction with high speed data processing and electronically controlled air management are the basis for this concept. The feasibility of this concept will be demonstrated an a commercial heavy duty diesel engine which will be provided by the contractor, BKM, Inc. BENEFITS: The proposed technology will lead to the optimization of both fuel efficiency and the reduction of pollutants in military as well as commercial automotive, marine and stationary engines. The system will allow engines to operate at peak efficiencies regardless of turbocharger matching compromises, conventional control tolerances and operating environment.