Computerized system and method for controlling engine speed of an internal combustion engine

Abstract

Computerized system and method for controlling an internal combustion engine are provided. The system includes a speed-setting device operable to supply a signal indicative of a desired engine speed. A speed sensor is coupled to the engine to supply a signal indicative of the actual speed of the engine. An electronic control unit is coupled to receive the respective signals indicative of desired engine speed and actual engine speed. The control unit in turn includes a comparator configured to compare the respective signals indicative of desired and actual engine speed relative to one another and supply a comparator output signal based on the magnitude of any differences therebetween. A processor is responsive to the comparator output signal to adjust one or more engine operational parameters of the engine. The one or more engine operational parameters are responsive to respective control signals from the control unit to affect actual engine speed to reduce within a predefined range the magnitude of the differences between the actual and desired engine speed. In a marine vessel such differences being generally caused due to load changes, such as may result from varying conditions of the water surface where the vessel travels, or from cargo redistribution relative to the center of gravity of the vessel, or both.