Use of feedforward in idle speed control for a direct injection spark ignition engine during lean burn

The use of reference feedforward control is investigated in the idle speed problem for a direct-injection spark-ignition engine during lean burn. This additional control signal is added to improve the speed and air-fuel ratio transient responses due to large load torque disturbances. A baseline control design is given, and a feedforward algorithm is presented and added to the baseline controller. The design is illustrated through simulations of step responses due to disturbances in load torque. With feedforward in the air control loop, the maximum engine speed droop is decreased more than 20%, while also improving the setpoint control of air-fuel ratio.