Dynamic model predictive position control for linear actuators in automotive applications

In this paper, a new approach for position control in automotive applications at the example of a dynamic headlamp levelling device is presented. A highly dynamic positioning process without undesirable position overshoots is focused. Typically, a dynamic headlamp levelling device uses a stepper motor combined with a plastic spindle. However, some automotive applications require a higher dynamic behaviour or a smaller granularity for adjusting the headlamp range. In rough terrain the driver of a vehicle needs a focused cone of light combined with the required fade down process, especially for xenon or LED headlamps. The presented concept uses a linear actuator combined with a model predictive control approach and a state of the art digital signal processor (DSP) for the dynamic headlamp levelling device.