US Patent 7222604 Method and device for controlling a drive unit

A method and a device for controlling a drive unit which allow an improved transition between idle regulation and drive unit propulsion are provided. A setpoint value for an output variable of the drive unit is predefined, it being possible to modify the setpoint value as a function of at least one reducing request and as a function of at least one load to be compensated for. The ratio of a first priority request for the modification of the predefined setpoint value as a function of the at least one load to be compensated for to a second priority request for the modification of the predefined setpoint value as a function of the at least one reducing request may be varied for different drive unit operating states.