Researchers at the University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR) are currently seeking to develop a new "smart" engine which will significantly reduce vehicle emissions.

The experts are working on an advanced controller, which can improve the efficiency of engines, with the most recent findings suggesting that the technology works best with exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), which can reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.

"This controller observes what an engine cycle is doing, makes measurements in that period of time, reduces that data, and decides how you need to push the engine in the next cycle," explains Dr Jim Drallmeier, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at UMR, who is leading the research together with his colleague Dr Jagannathan Sarangapani, professor of electrical and computer engineering.

The pair have been working with their students on the project for two years, which could provide an alternative to hybrid or fuel cell vehicles in the future.

But Dr Drallmeier is confident the controller is the future, commenting: "The key is you're opening doors into new modes of engine operation that were not available before through sophisticated controllers."

He added: "Where future engine designs will go is multimode operation. The only way you're going to get there is through sophisticated controllers."


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