Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for managing engine output. A method includes receiving at least one of a torque input and an acceleration input; generating a torque request for an engine; receiving the torque request; and determining an amount of the torque request that can be provided by a fast response actuator including a spark timing actuator based on a governed torque fraction value based on existing operating conditions of the spark timing actuator and a torque fraction value indicative of a total torque request value and an anticipated future torque demand value. The method includes managing the spark timing actuator to produce the amount of torque; determining a remaining amount of the torque request that cannot be provided the fast response actuator based on an existing operating condition of the engine; and commanding a slow response actuator to provide the remaining amount of the torque request.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system for managing engine output that includes a machine manager module and a combustion module. In one embodiment, the combustion module includes a slow response pathway and a fast response pathway. The slow response pathway includes managing air and fuel actuators and the fast response pathway includes managing spark timing. According to one embodiment, managing spark timing comprises bringing a spark actuator to the middle of a spark timing range for bi-directional control and involves sacrificing engine efficiency for engine responsiveness. Further, the fast response pathway may be selectively enabled based upon an optimization index.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system for managing engine output that includes a machine manager module and a combustion module. In one embodiment, the combustion module includes a slow response pathway and a fast response pathway. The slow response pathway includes managing air and fuel actuators and the fast response pathway includes managing spark timing. According to one embodiment, managing spark timing comprises bringing a spark actuator to the middle of a spark timing range for bi-directional control and involves sacrificing engine efficiency for engine responsiveness. Further, the fast response pathway may be selectively enabled based upon an optimization index.