The engine control unit (ECU) developed by Currawong is the perfect choice for integration into small UAV platforms. Its aerospace quality design with EMI shielded aluminium body provides superb physical and electrical protection. Based on a well proven, high performance automotive ECU core with over ten thousand units in the field, this is a compact and reliable system which provides complete control of a fuel injected engine.

The engine control algorithms implemented in the ECU are based on the very mature Autronic SM4 platform. This platform uses a patented control strategy specifically targeted for use on multi-throttled and low-manifold vacuum engines, with excellent performance achieved for two stroke engines. The Autronic code base has been used successfully in the automotive market for many years, with over ten thousand units in the field. It has been proven across all types of engines, and provides a well-developed, sophisticated and reliable engine control solution.

This established ECU platform is complemented by the UAV-specific functionality developed by Currawong. This includes barometric pressure sensing, a complete throttle position and pump control solution, and UAV-targeted telemetry available on both serial and CAN (Controller Area Network) interfaces. The ECU features plug and play compatibility with Cloud Cap Technology’s Piccolo avionics.

The ECU provides a complete single-supply solution, with integrated high-power injector and ignition drivers, servo control of throttle position, closed-loop fuel pump control and a 6V supply for use with throttle servos and ignition units. All sensors and control systems connect directly to the ECU, which even includes high-power drivers for added GPIO (General Purpose Input Output) ports.

Communication with the ECU for in-flight monitoring and control is simple, with both serial and CAN interfaces providing real-time engine telemetry and engine control command set. Calibration of the ECU for a specific engine is achieved using a powerful interface that allows customisation of all elements of ECU operation.