Model Predictive Control Applied to Vehicle Dynamics with Torque and Steering Angle Constraints

• Grant number: 25/19186-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 29, 2025
• End date: February 20, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Vilma Alves de Oliveira
• Grantee: Thayson Pereira Alves
• Supervisor: Antonella Ferrara
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Università degli Studi di Pavia, Italy
• Associated to the scholarship: 24/20198-4 - Integration of Propulsion and Resistance Associated with Vehicle Dynamics, BP.IC

Abstract

This project focus on research on the application of Model Predictive Control (MPC) to vehicle dynamics with a focus on safety and stability. The study will be conducted with two vehicle dynamic models: a simplified 2DoF model for reference and a more comprehensive 7DoF model. The MPC will be developed to handle constraints related to torque control and steering angle, ensuring realistic and safe operation under various driving conditions. The research will be carried out in collaboration with the University of Pavia in Italy, whose expertise and infrastructure provide an ideal environment for the development of advanced control strategies. The ultimate goal is to contribute to control systems capable of enhancing vehicle performance while maintaining safety and stability across a wide range of maneuvers.