2. Single-zone thermodynamic model

Thermodynamic models can be divided into two groups: single-zone models and multi-zone models (with two, three or even more zones). Predictive models model engine operation (cylinder pressure and temperature, power, efficiency, possibly pollutant emissions) if a combustion law is specified. Models can also be used for analysis purposes, in which case they can be used to analyze the heat released by combustion, based on an experimental diagram of cylinder pressure.

These models use sub-models to describe the various phenomena involved in engine operation, such as flow through valves, combustion speed and kinetics, parietal heat transfer, leakage, etc.

The advantages of the thermodynamic approach are as follows