and failed prematurely without any warning, leaving you stranded. By the early
1980s electronic ignition systems were more complex; carmakers were able to
monitor the engine environment and make necessary adjustments, rendering the
systems more reliable. Meeting EPA standards for tailpipe emissions began to
look easier to the engineers.
There was still one hurdle to overcome, however: The ability to make “on-the-
fly” engine performance adjustments while driving. Computer-controlled
ignition systems were the solution. With such systems, engine commands could
be monitored and adjusted during operation by gathering real time information
from various sensors located throughout the engine. These sensors measure such
things as coolant temperature, exhaust oxygen, airflow, and air temperature.
They provide pertinent information to the computer at any given time so that it
can make the adjustments necessary to realize optimum engine performance
under any operating condition or demand. Systems started with controlling a few
engine-and transmission-related operations. Today, computers control most
electronic operations of the vehicle, including engine management (fuel
delivery-ignition-emissions), transmission shifting, climate control, vehicle
lighting, braking, and on some vehicles equipped with electro-hydraulic
suspensions the suspension. This is a far cry from small beginnings.
With the evolution of engine management, the need for highly trained
technicians, sophisticated diagnostic and test equipment, computerized
information systems, and advanced diagnostic strategies have become
paramount. Carmakers have full-time technical people in the field collecting data
on technical problems stemming from design flaws. A few years back I spoke
with the technical rep for the Eastern Seaboard for Chrysler. He travels from
dealer to dealer, collecting data on specific repairs and malfunctions. From his
input, the carmaker creates a database for dealerships and technicians across the
country to use in their efforts to repair any maladies that pop up during vehicle
operation.
singke
(singke)
#1