Sanjeev M. Naik

Distributed Control System Development for FlexRay-based Systems

FlexRay is a new communication subsystem for future in-vehicle controls. There is a lack of mature model-based development methodologies to build complex FlexRay-based systems. In this paper we describe an end-to-end model-based development process for building a complex FlexRay-based distributed control system. We describe this in the context of safety critical x-by-wire systems for a realistic automotive application. This involves: control system modeling, functional simulation, and distributed software development. We first describe the process of functional and physical architecture design. Next we discuss the software development process dealing with software to hardware allocation, as well as scheduling of software and communication tasks on a time-triggered communication bus under stringent practical restrictions. We conclude by considering the integration issues relating to joint OEM/supplier development of distributed control systems. The above experience has been obtained during the model-based development of a FlexRay-based control system for a vehicle, which features by-wire steering, braking and propulsion.

High speed performance of PM machine with reconfigurable winding

This paper examines high speed performance of a permanent magnet (PM) machine with a reconfigurable winding (RW). First, the variations of machine parameters due to winding reconfiguration are presented and their impacts on drive system performance are investigated. To further understand system behavior, the reconfigurable ratio is set as a variable, and its effect on saliency ratio, flux weakening range, torque, output power and losses are studied in detail. Saturation effect is also taken into account. To verify the simulation analysis, a PM machine with reconfigurable winding was built and tested in a lab. The test results show that RW system can achieve up to 84% power boost with 57% copper loss reduction in high speed.

Signal Processing for Smart Vehicle Technologies: Part 2 [From the Guest Editors]

The invention of the automobile has transformed how people live, work, and interact in society. Today, with an ever-increasing number of in-vehicle options/activities, as well as the increasing demands being placed on the driver, vehicle platform, and transportation infrastructure, more is being asked of engineers, designers, scientists, and transportation specialists. Signal processing is playing an increasingly substantial role in this domain, including such general topics as monitoring driver distraction, vehicle lane/control detection/tracking, driver assistance through autonomous platforms, and vehicle infrastructure support and planning/monitoring.

DSP Applications in Engine Control and Onboard Diagnostics: Enabling greener automobiles

Digital signal processing (DSP) has been playing an increasingly important role in engine control and onboard diagnostics (OBD), a critical area of vehicle powertrain controls, to meet increasingly strict fuel efficiency requirements and emission regulations. This article gives an overview of DSP applications in this field from a practical perspective and identifies fruitful areas for DSP research and development in engine control and OBD. It also provides examples in the areas of engine misfire detection, individual cylinder fuel-air ratio imbalance detection, and engine knock detection.