Internship | Energy Management for ultra-efficient RCCI engine with E-turbo

You will be working on the development of models and energy management strategies for a RCCI engine with electrically-assisted turbo charging.

RCCI is a pre-mixed combustion concept that relies on controlled auto-ignition. This concept is sensitive for varying operating conditions. For these advanced concepts, combustion phasing and heat release control is key to guarantee stable and safe operation. TNO demonstrated that robust performance can be realized with an advanced MIMO controller based on next-cycle fuel path controller.

This MSc project aims to examine the feasibility of robust, high efficient RCCI operation by an electrically-assisted turbocharger (E-turbo). This turbo is equipped with a motor/generator in order to deliver/recuperate energy. Main focus is on (i) determining impact on engine efficiency, possible operating conditions, transient performance and on (ii) feasibility for RCCI control.

For this project, the following activities are foreseen:

• Literature study on E-turbo and energy management;
• Update existing engine model for E-turbo application
• Steady state performance assessment: impact on engine efficiency, intake temperature and intake oxygen concentration;
• Development energy management strategy for RCCI engine with E-turbo;
• Proof-of-concept simulation: energy management strategy for RCCI, incl. load steps;
• Write MSc thesis and present main findings.

You will work together with a team of enthusiastic combustion and control experts on a very relevant topic in the automotive industry. The results will be used in discussion with Garrett to specify a new combustion test platform for further research. This work is also closely related to STW HiEff project with TU/e PhD student Maarten Vlaswinkel.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.