Nonlinear model predictive control(NMPC) of diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) outlet temperature for active regeneration of diesel particulate filter (DPF) in diesel engine

To meet the active regeneration requirements of the diesel particulate filter (DPF), the outlet temperature of the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) must be maintained within the range of 585 °C–615 °C. Firstly, this paper explores the DOC system using a set of partial differential equations that describe the coupled flow and heat transfer of both the gas phase and solid phase carriers. Subsequently, the DOC model is significantly simplified, and the equations are solved based on their characteristics. Secondly, a Luenberger observer is designed, and the appropriate range of values for the observer gain is calculated. By minimizing the cost function and adhering to constraints within a finite prediction horizon, the optimal sequence for injecting hydrocarbon(HC) is determined. Thirdly, in this study, a Worldwide Harmonized Transient Cycle test is conducted on the engine, following the China VI emission standard. The computational results demonstrate that the mean absolute errors of the DOC outlet temperatures obtained from the model prediction and the observer are 0.535 °C and 1.994 °C, respectively. Finally, a nonlinear model predictive control is implemented to ensure that the DOC outlet temperature can be maintained between 585 °C and 615 °C. [Display omitted] •The DOC gas phase and solid phase temperature differential equations were simplified.•The Backward Differentiation Formulas method was used to solve the DOC model and the parameters were identified by the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm.•The Luenberger observer was designed and the Lyapunov function was constructed to prove its stability.•The DOC model was combined with the minimised cost function and NMPC was implemented to optimise the HC injection strategy.