|
|
|
||||
|
August 03,
2005
© 1998 - 2005
Copyright & |
Powertrain control modules manage such functions as fuel, throttle, ignition, emissions, shifting, and integrated functions such as trailer/towing modes, traction and stability control, air conditioning, antitheft systems, driver display information, speed/tachometer and much more. Engineers will combine various activators and sensors to customize the systems to each model's unique performance needs. The controllers also can be utilized in GM's specialty vehicles and various emerging technologies. GM has divided these flexible systems into three levels that control different types of engines. The first level handles the least complex engines and will begin to roll out in the 2007 model year. The mid-level system features the E38 32-bit engine controller and covers engines with features such as variable valve timing or Displacement on Demand (DoD), like the new 3.5L and 3.9L V-6 found in 2006 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo. The top system uses the E67 32-bit engine controller and handles GM's most sophisticated engines, such as the 4.4L Northstar V-8 SC found on the Cadillac STS-V and XLR-V. GM's Powertrain Controls, a group of approximately 650 computer system and software engineers at the company's Milford , Mich. Proving Grounds, developed three engine and two transmission control systems for GM's portfolio of engines, transmissions and hybrid propulsion systems. GM writes all of the software for the three new systems, and uses one common software package that's tuned to each application and uses standard interfacing with the controller hardware. "By collaborating with powertrain electronics and integration on their software build processes, the information technology team was able to create an IT environment that significantly improved software build time while simultaneously lowering infrastructure and support costs," said Eric H. Gassenfeit, information officer, global powertrain. On the hardware side, the family strategy has led to identical packaging and mounting of each controller and the corresponding connectors in nearly every GM vehicle. The hardware and software groups at Powertrain Controls collaborate with each other and with suppliers to write product requirements, purchase components and design the final product. The group has created key parameters that hold constant within a controller family even as it moves from one supplier to the next. These consolidated processes apply across all functions and help maintain quality control. (August 1, 2005)
|
|||
