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The electronic control unit
(ECU) used on Italian motorcycle manufacturer Benelli's
critically-acclaimed TnT motorcycle is supplied by Walbro Italy, a
subsidiary of Walbro Engine Management.
February 4, 2005
TUCSON, Arizona -
The Walbro ECU provides precision control of fuel and ignition to ensure
optimum performance of the 3-cylinder, four-stroke, 1130 cc engine used
on the stylish sport bike, which was introduced last year. The high
output engine produces 101 kW (135 hp) at 9,250 rpm.
In developing the ECU for Benelli, Bologna-based Walbro Italy drew upon
its extensive experience in motorsports, including motorcycle and auto
track and rally racing, as well as offshore boat racing. This experience
allowed Walbro Italy to develop the ECU and specialized software for the
TnT in a very short time frame.
The Walbro ECU provides an unusual feature for riders of the Benelli TnT.
The ECU can store two complete engine calibrations, one for performance
and one for easy driving with lower power, and the desired setting can
be selected by the rider.
The Walbro ECU monitors a wide range of parameters that affect engine
performance and adjusts fuel flow and ignition timing as needed. Among
these parameters are engine temperature, air temperature, barometric
pressure, throttle position and battery voltage. The result is smooth
power transitions and highly repeatable performance.
The ECU also offers end-of-the-assembly-line setup, which allows the
motorcycle manufacturer to adjust a number of parameters without
reprogramming the ECU's entire calibration. The ECU provides selectable
limits for internal barometric/manifold air pressure; throttle
position/rpm settings, acceleration/deceleration matrix, closed loop
idle speed, fan on/off temperature and other functions to meet specific
requirements.
Additional features incorporated into the Walbro Italy ECU include a
safe starting mode that ensures that the side stand is up and that the
transmission is in neutral before starting is allowed, and built-in
diagnostics to monitor sensor and actuator operation.
To ensure long-term reliability under the toughest operating conditions,
Walbro's electronic control units have been subjected to an extensive
battery of durability tests, including mechanical and thermal shock,
corrosion and vibration tests.
Walbro Engine Management, a unit of TI Automotive, is the world's
largest manufacturer of carburetors and a major manufacturer of ignition
systems, fuel injection and air/fuel management components for engines
targeted at outdoor power equipment, marine, recreational and two-wheel
applications. Walbro Engine Management has facilities in the United
States, Mexico, Italy, Japan, Thailand and China.
For more information, please contact: Ann M. Guernsey
Walbro Engine Management
(520) 877-3000 |
