Valve operation in an internal combustion engine
US7089895B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 13, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 15, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 13, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF01L2009/2136
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for operating a plurality of valves in an engine uses valve actuators to move each valve. Accelerometers are used to detect acceleration of the valves and particularly the moment when they seat. A knock sensor detects an acoustic impulse made by the valves when they seat. A controller correlates signals from the sensor and accelerometers, wherein a signal from the sensor that correlates in time with a signal from an accelerometer indicates seating of the respective valve, which indicates a closure of the respective valve. The controller measures a magnitude of the acoustic impulse to be used as feedback in controlling the operation of the respective valve actuator, and provide softer landings of the valve.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.