Modeling and Tuning of Electronic Throttle Control System in Formula Student Car

Abstract

The Lookprabida formula student team uses an electronic throttle control (ETC) system in the racecar. Unfortunately, the ETC system cannot regulate the throttle valve to closely pursue angular setpoints. Thus, this paper endeavors to improve the response of the ETC system in racing cars. The ETC system is first examined using frequency response analysis. Parameter identification is carried out to obtain a mathematical model for the electronic throttle body. The Ziegler-Nichols’ second method is then applied to preliminarily select the proportional integral derivative (PID) gains using MATLAB/Simulink®. Then, the ETC system fine-tuning on the experimental set is carried out. The final PID controller design results in a reduction in the settling time from 0.35 to 0.20 s, overshoot from 29.6 to 19.33%, and steady-state error from 2.00 to 0.22%. The racecar with the finally designed PID gains is tested on a training track; the root mean square error (RMSE) shows that the throttle valve approaches much closer to angular setpoints.