Mixture Ratio Self-Learning Control

The mixture ratio feedback control system monitors the mixture ratio signal transmitted from A/F sensor 1. This feedback signal is then sent to the ECM. The ECM controls the basic mixture ratio as close to the theoretical mixture ratio as possible. However, the basic mixture ratio is not necessarily controlled as originally designed. Both manufacturing differences (i.e., mass air flow sensor hot wire) and characteristic changes during operation (i.e., fuel injector clogging) directly affect mixture ratio. Accordingly, the difference between the basic and theoretical mixture ratios is monitored in this system. This is then computed in terms of "injection pulse duration" to automatically compensate for the difference between the two ratios.

"Fuel trim" refers to the feedback compensation value compared against the basic injection duration. Fuel trim includes "short-term fuel trim" and "long-term fuel trim".

"Short term fuel trim" is the short-term fuel compensation used to maintain the mixture ratio at its theoretical value. The signal from A/F sensor 1 indicates whether the mixture ratio is RICH or LEAN compared to the theoretical value. The signal then triggers a reduction in fuel volume if the mixture ratio is rich, and an increase in fuel volume if it is lean.

"Long-term fuel trim" is overall fuel compensation carried out over time to compensate for continual deviation of the "short-term fuel trim" from the central value. Continual deviation will occur due to individual engine differences, wear over time and changes in the usage environment.