Non-linear Net Engine Torque Estimator for Internal Combustion Engine

An engine torque estimator, based on sliding mode technique, is proposed in this paper: a switching term, function of the error between the estimated and measured instantaneous engine speed is used to ensure the convergence of the estimation error. This approach provides robustness against the uncertainties of the model and the variations of the parameters during the life of the vehicle. The estimator is then tested with a DI Diesel engine simulator, calibrated with experimental data and realized by the authors. The estimator does not include the combustion process, and this feature make it suitable for any kind of internal combustion engine after a short calibration procedure