Model Based Catalyst Control

Abstract: A one dimensional discretized model of a two brick three way catalyst (TWC) system was developed and implemented in MATLAB, Simulink and TargetLink in collaboration with Volvo Cars and Linköpings Universitet - ISY. The purpose of this thesis was to increase system understanding and create a model based TWC control for further development at Volvo Cars. A total of 50 states were modelled, including emission concentrations (O2, CO, C3H6, C3H8, H2, NOx, CO2, H2O), temperature and oxygen buffer level (OBL). A model based control structure was implemented in the form of five separate PID-controllers enabling possibilities to control the OBL of each separate slice of each brick individually and through simple reference handling. The control structures includes anti-windup, feedforward control and feedback safety for model reset during sensor indication of leakage. Specific equipment and software used included MATLAB, Simulink, TargetLink, Volvo SULEV30 TWC and testing rigs. Overall increase in system understanding was achieved in comparison with contemporary TWC modelling and control, as well as sufficient system performance in regard to estimate emissions, simulation duration and pedagogical value. Concluding thoughts of the thesis revolve the complexity of the actual TWC modelling, parameter estimation as well as control. The model presented in this thesis has great potential of describing TWC systems but with great effort during parameter estimation. With ECU performance available in temporary vehicle production year 2019, a complex model may be combined with a simple control strategy whilst a simple model may be combined with a complex control strategy.