Performance Electronics was commissioned by Coltec, Inc. in conjunction with Cummins Engine Company and the U.S. Navy to develop a custom engine control system for a revolutionary experimental engine. The rotary power plant’s novel combustion concept required customer software and hardware to control fuel delivery and spark ignition. Performance Electronics delivered the controller hardware and software, plus engine hardware, system calibration, and firmware update tools. The system provided to Coltec, Inc. is described below:
System Details
Complete Adjustability – All system parameters adjust using a PC-based, custom monitoring program.
Fuel Control – The Electronic Control Unit (ECU), via direct injection, controls fueling based on engine load, RPM, engine temperature, battery voltage, and air temperature.
Ignition Control – The ECU adjusts and controls ignition timing and dwell. In addition, a special feature allows the ignition to be suspended during certain segments of the operating range.
Additional Control – Another unique feature of this system is the ability to “drive by wire”. The ECU electronically controls the throttle valve allowing its closed-loop operation as a function of other engine parameters. The fuel pump and several status indicators are similarly controlled by the ECU.
Off-Site Firmware Updates – Because this project involved the development of a new engine technology, Performance Electronics, Ltd. provided Coltec, Inc. with the necessary hardware for remote firmware upgrades. This allowed Performance Electronics, Ltd. engineers to add features to control the system after delivery without physically having the hardware.
Total Package Solution – Performance Electronics, Ltd. supplied the Total Engine Control Solution, which included the electronic control unit, wire harness, throttle body, air filter, ignition coil, relay box, programming box, and complete system manual.
