Damping device and method for the suppression of torsional vibrations in a drivetrain

Damping device for suppressing torsional vibrations in the drive branch (3) of an internal combustion engine (1) comprises a detection device for determining a mechanical state variable (delta alpha MODELL, delta alpha IST) reproducing the torsion of the drive branch, and a control device (2) for controlling the engine with a control variable (m) according to the determined state variable. The detection device has a predictor element (4) that contains a model of the drive branch and/or the engine and determines the state variable (delta alpha MODELL) in response to the control variable using this model. Independent claims are also included for: (1) Engine control device comprising the above damping device; and (2) Damping process for suppressing torsional vibrations in the drive branch of an internal combustion engine.