Abstract A method and apparatus for controlling the various functions of an internal combustion engine using a program-controlled microprocessor having a memory preprogrammed with various control laws and associated control schedules receives information concerning one or more engine-operating parameters such as manifold pressure, throttle position, engine coolant temperature, air temperature, engine speed or period and the like. These parameters are sensed and then supplied to input circuits for signal conditioning and conversion into digital words usable by the microprocessor. The microprocessor system computes a digital word indicative of a computer-commanded engine control operation and output circuitry responds to predetermined computer-generated commands and to the computed digital command words for converting them to corresponding pulse-width control signals for controlling such engine operations as fuel-injection, ignition timing, proportional and/or on-off EGR control, and the like.
A voltage regulator for use in controlling the supply voltage to a microprocessor-based electronic engine control system responsive to one or more sensed engine-operating parameters for generating engine control commands, said voltage regulator comprising series pass transistor means for achieving a low input to output offset, adjustable input means for establishing a predetermined threshhold level of supply line voltage below which said regulator shuts down, and means for automatically shutting down said regulator when said supply line voltage drops below said predetermined threshhold level for preventing the erroneous operation of said electronic engine control system at low supply voltages.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
99 words
A voltage regulator for use in controlling the supply voltage to a microprocessor-based electronic engine control system responsive to one or more sensed engine-operating parameters for generating engine control commands, said voltage regulator comprising series pass transistor means for achieving a low input to output offset, adjustable input means for establishing a predetermined threshhold level of supply line voltage below which said regulator shuts down, and means for automatically shutting down said regulator when said supply line voltage drops below said predetermined threshhold level for preventing the erroneous operation of said electronic engine control system at low supply voltages.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
19 words
The voltage regulator of claim 1 further including means for selectively varying the level of output voltage being regulated.