Desktop calibration and feature development of production ECU code

摘要

As engine management Systems (EMSs) grow more complex, their design and development processes are evolving. This paper discusses the current EMS design and development process and introduces a possible improvement to this process using CAE tools and rapid prototyping systems. A method of transferring production EMS strategy code for use within a simulation environment is described. The methodology takes production C-code generated for a specified target processor and transfers the code for use with MATLAB/Simulink. The transferred code provides a true reproduction of the production software. This allows for simulations of the EMS on the desktop and vehicle using rapid prototyping. The application of the converted code is demonstrated by examples of strategy feature development, desktop calibration and strategy logic verification. The expedient nature of the process enables the MATLAB/Simulink representation to be available at each new release of the strategy code throughout the development cycle. The benefits of the improvement to the EMS development process are detailed in relation to factors such as reduction in vehicle testing and reduced cycle times. The paper also discusses areas for further application of the translated code, in relation to design alternatives and system investigations.