Denso’s new diesel ECS ups fuel efficiency 2 %

To meet the increasingly stringent and worldwide emissions regulations, and in an effort to further increase their efficiency, Denso has developed a new, more simplified engine control system. Called intelligent-Accuracy Refinement Technology (i-ART), it features the world’s first closed-loop control system -- Meaning, the system autonomously adjusts the fuel injection quantity and timing to their optimal targets based on feedback from injectors. To do this, each injector is equipped with a pressure sensor that communicates its fuel pressure to the engine ECU.

According to Denso, i-ART significantly reduces exhaust emissions and increases fuel efficiency, compared with the conventional open-looped technology that does not have feedback function from the injectors. Also, each injector can adjust injections to meet target performance even if the injectors’ deteriorate over time or if there are differences in performances with each injector. In company tests, the i-ART system installed in a 2-litre diesel engine has complied with the upcoming Euro 6 Standards scheduled to take effect in 2015 and also increased fuel efficiency by about two percent compared to the company’s previous engine control systems.

Also, since the i-ART system (see picture alongside) increases precision of fuel injection quantity and timing, and has more flexibility in controlling injections, it significantly reduces the engine calibration efforts.

With their ability to deliver higher torque at lower speeds and offer better fuel economy, diesel-powered engines are the among the most efficient of the internal combustion engines. Diesel are the mainstay in the European marketplace - and their popularity is increasing in other markets like China and India.