Injection device

Abstract

The ejection device (500) comprises:-an inlet (IN1) for receiving the liquid (LIQ1),-a nozzle (NOZ1) having one or more orifices (OR1) for forming droplets (P1) from the liquid (LIQ1),-one or more flow channels (DUC1) for conveying the liquid (LIQ1),-a coupling element (M1) for coupling ultrasonic waves (UW1) to the liquid (LIQ1), and-a transducer (SPK1) for vibrating the coupling element (M1), wherein the liquid (LIQ1) is conveyed from the inlet (IN1) to the one or more orifices (OR1) via the one or more flow channels (DUC1), and wherein the ejection device (500) is arranged to direct ultrasonic waves (UW1) from the coupling element (M1) to the nozzle (NOZ1) via the liquid (LIQ1) contained in the one or more flow channels (DUC1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the injection of liquid in a reciprocating internal combustion engine. Background Technology

[0002] It is known that the fuel injector of an internal combustion engine may include an ultrasonic transducer at one end of an ultrasonic horn, such that the opposite end of the horn is immersed in fuel near the injector's outlet orifice. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The object of this invention is to provide an apparatus for injecting liquid into an engine. The object of this invention is to provide a method for injecting liquid into an engine. The object is to provide an engine including an injection device. The object is to provide a method for operating an engine.

[0004] According to one aspect, an apparatus according to claim 1 is provided.

[0005] Other embodiments are defined in the other claims.

[0006] The scope of protection sought by the various embodiments of the present invention is set forth in the independent claims. Embodiments described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims (if any) should be interpreted as examples that aid in understanding the various embodiments of the invention.

[0007] This device can be used to inject atomized liquid into the combustion chamber of a cylinder in a reciprocating internal combustion engine. The liquid can be injected into the engine's intake manifold or directly into the cylinder. The liquid can be, for example, fuel or a liquid additive. The liquid can be, for example, diesel fuel. The liquid can be, for example, methanol. The liquid can be, for example, liquefied ammonia. The liquid additive can be, for example, water. The engine can be, for example, a ship's main engine.

[0008] The atomizing nozzle of this device includes one or more orifices for atomizing the liquid, i.e., for converting a certain amount of liquid into small droplets. The diameter of the formed droplets can, for example, range from 1 μm to 20 μm. The device can utilize ultrasound to promote atomization. The device can ultrasonically treat the liquid, i.e., agitate the liquid by applying ultrasonic energy. The device can power the liquid with ultrasound. Ultrasound can, for example, reduce the size of the atomized droplets and / or provide a more uniform droplet size distribution. Large droplets, if entrained in the cylinder, may cause incomplete combustion and / or potentially damage lubrication. Ultrasound can reduce the risk of forming large droplets.

[0009] The device may include a flow control valve for initiating and stopping liquid flow. The device may utilize ultrasound to facilitate the operation of the flow control valve. Ultrasound can, for example, allow for more precise timing of the initiation of liquid flow through the flow control valve. Precise initiation of liquid flow can further reduce the risk of large droplet formation.

[0010] The device includes an ultrasonic transducer for generating ultrasound. The device can transmit ultrasound from the transducer to an atomizing nozzle via a liquid. Transmitting ultrasound to the atomizing nozzle via a liquid allows for increased degrees of freedom in selecting the position of the atomizing nozzle and in selecting the position of the transducer relative to the cylinder head. For example, the atomizing nozzle can be mounted in a first position, and the transducer can be mounted in a second, different position. The first position can be selected, for example, to optimize the trajectory of the atomized droplets. The second position can be selected, for example, to ensure effective cooling of the transducer.

[0011] The space around the cylinder head of an engine is typically limited. Transmitting ultrasound via liquid allows for increased freedom in selecting the locations of various pipes, sensors, and cables connected to the cylinder head.

[0012] The device can use one or more flow channels to deliver liquid to an atomizing nozzle, and can use the liquid contained in the one or more flow channels to transmit ultrasound to the atomizing nozzle. Specifically, the one or more flow channels and the liquid contained therein can be arranged to operate as a liquid waveguide for guiding ultrasound with relatively low loss. Attached Figure Description

[0013] In the following examples, several variations will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein

[0014] Figure 1a The injection device is shown in a sectional side view with the flow control valve closed.

[0015] Figure 1b The injection device is shown in a cross-sectional side view with the flow control valve open.

[0016] Figure 2 The acoustic transmission lines of the jetting device are shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0017] Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view of atomized liquid being sprayed into the engine's air intake is shown as an example.

[0018] Figure 4a An example illustrates the engine's control system.

[0019] Figure 4b The control system of the injection device is illustrated by an example.

[0020] Figure 5 The acoustic transmission lines of the jetting device are shown in a cross-sectional side view.

[0021] Figure 6 The jetting device is shown in a three-dimensional view, and

[0022] Figure 7 The injection device is shown in a cross-sectional side view with the flow control valve open. Detailed Implementation

[0023] refer to Figure 1a and Figure 1b The spraying device 500 can form one or more sprays JET1, which include droplets P1. Droplets P1 can be formed by forcing liquid LIQ1 through one or more outlet orifices OR1. The flow of liquid LIQ1 through the orifices OR1 can induce shear forces that can convert the liquid into droplets P1. Liquid LIQ1 can exit the device 500 at the orifices OR1.

[0024] The spraying device 500 can form micro-droplets P1 by atomizing liquid LIQ1. The spraying device 500 includes an atomizing nozzle NOZ1, which includes one or more atomizing orifices OR1. The atomizing nozzle NOZ1 includes one or more orifices OR1 for forming droplets P1 from the liquid LIQ1. The liquid LIQ1 can have a pressure p within the device 500. LIQ1 p G This represents the external pressure at orifice OR1. The pressure difference across orifice OR1 can be equal to p. LIQ1 -p G Pressure difference p LIQ1 -p G This causes liquid LIQ1 to flow through orifice OR1. Pressurized liquid LIQ1 is forced to flow through orifice OR1. The velocity of liquid LIQ1 at orifice OR1 causes shear force, which may exceed the surface tension of liquid LIQ1 in order to achieve atomization.

[0025] The device 500 can promote atomization by applying ultrasonic waves UW1 to liquid LIQ1. The device 500 can perform acoustic treatment on the liquid LIQ1. The device 500 includes a coupling element M1 vibrating from an ultrasonic transducer SPK1. The vibrating coupling element M1 couples the ultrasonic waves UW1 to the liquid LIQ1. The device 500 includes an inlet port IN1 for receiving the liquid LIQ1, and one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2 for conveying the liquid LIQ1. The one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2 can convey the liquid LIQ1 to nozzle NOZ1.

[0026] The ultrasonic wave UW1 can be transmitted to the nozzle NOZ1 via liquid LIQ1. The ultrasonic wave UW1 can be transmitted to the nozzle NOZ1 via liquid LIQ1 contained in one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2.

[0027] The spraying device 500 may include:

[0028] -Inlet IN1 for receiving liquid LIQ1

[0029] - Nozzle NOZ1 with one or more orifices OR1 to form droplets P1 from liquid LIQ1.

[0030] -One or more flow channels DUC1 to deliver liquid LIQ1

[0031] - Coupling element M1, used to couple ultrasonic waves (UW1) to liquid LIQ1, and

[0032] - Transducer SPK1 that causes coupling element M1 to vibrate.

[0033] Liquid LIQ1 can be delivered from inlet IN1 to one or more orifices OR1 via one or more flow channels DUC1.

[0034] The jetting device 500 can be arranged to guide the ultrasonic wave UW1 from the coupling element M1 to the nozzle NOZ1 via the liquid LIQ1 contained in one or more flow channels DUC1.

[0035] The apparatus 500 may include a combiner unit CMB1 for combining liquid LIQ1 with ultrasonic waves. The combiner unit CMB1 may include an inlet port IN1, a coupling element M1, and an opening to a flow channel DUC1. The coupling element M1 may be arranged to guide the ultrasonic waves into the flow channel DUC1. The apparatus 500 may have one or more flow channels DUC1 for conveying liquid LIQ1 from the combiner CMB1 to the nozzle NOZ1.

[0036] One or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2 and the liquid LIQ1 contained in the flow channels can operate as a liquid waveguide WG1 to guide the ultrasonic wave UW1 to the nozzle NOZ1 via the liquid LIQ1 contained in the one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2. When one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2 are filled with liquid LIQ1, the device 500 can be arranged to guide the ultrasonic wave UW1 via the liquid LIQ1 in the liquid waveguide WG1.

[0037] Combiner unit CBM1 can deliver liquid LIQ1 from inlet port IN1 to liquid waveguide WG1. Flow channel DUC1 can be fluidly connected to inlet IN1 via combiner unit CBM1. Combiner unit CBM1 can couple ultrasonic wave UW1 to liquid waveguide WG1. Ultrasonic wave UW1 can propagate via liquid waveguide WG1 to one or more orifices OR1.

[0038] The combiner CMB1 may include a coupling element M1 for coupling ultrasonic waves to a liquid LIQ1 contained within the combiner CMB1. The coupling element M1 may be, for example, a vibrating diaphragm. The combiner CMB1 may include a hollow body 120. The coupling element M1 may be part of the body 120, or the coupling element M1 may be attached to the body 120. The coupling element M1 may be attached to the body 120, for example, via a threaded connection, by welding, or by press-fit. The combiner CMB1 may optionally include a retaining member 122 for attaching the coupling element M1 to the body 120. The retaining member 122 may be attached to the body 120, for example, via a threaded connection, by welding, or by press-fit. The combiner CMB1 may include a solid material MAT1, such as a metal.

[0039] The coupling member M1 has a coupling surface SRF0, which contacts the liquid LIQ1 contained within the combiner CMB1. The pressure p of the liquid LIQ1 inside the combiner CMB1 is... LIQ1 It can be higher than the ambient atmospheric pressure p outside the combiner CMB1 A Pressure difference p LIQ1 -p A The pressure can be, for example, greater than 100 kPa, greater than 1 MPa, or even greater than 10 MPa. The vibration coupling element M1 can be arranged to withstand the pressure difference p. LIQ1 -p A .

[0040] The coupling element M1 can be a membrane, which is arranged to be in the pressure difference (p LIQ1 -p A For example, it can withstand the pressure of liquid LIQ1 at pressures greater than 100 kPa, greater than 1 MPa, or even greater than 10 MPa. LIQ1 With environmental pressure p A The pressure difference between them (p) LIQ1 -p A ).

[0041] The injection device 500 may include a flow control valve VAL1. Valve VAL1 may include a valve seat SEAT1 and a valve member PIN1, which is movable relative to the valve seat SEAT1. The valve member PIN1 may be, for example, a needle. The valve member PIN1 may be pressed against the valve seat SEAT1 to prevent liquid LIQ1 from flowing through valve VAL1. The valve member PIN1 may be lifted away from the valve seat SEAT1 to allow liquid LIQ1 to flow through valve VAL1 to one or more orifices OR1. The injection device 500 may include an actuator ACU1 for opening and / or closing valve VAL1. The injection device 500 may include an actuator ACU1 for moving valve member PIN1. The actuator ACU1 may be, for example, an electromagnetic actuator, which includes an electromagnetic coil COIL1. The actuator ACU1 may receive electrical control signals via terminals N101 and N102. Current may be coupled to coil COIL1 via terminals N101 and N102. The current may induce a magnetic field, which may in turn be arranged to move valve member PIN1 relative to valve seat SEAT1. The coil COIL1 may optionally be covered with a protective cover COV1.

[0042] The injection device 500 may include a resilient member SPR1 for pressing the valve member PIN1 against the valve seat SEAT1 when the actuator ACU1 is not energized. The resilient member SPR1 may be, for example, a spring.

[0043] Figure 1a The valve VAL1 is shown in the closed position, preventing the flow of liquid. Figure 1b The valve is shown in the open position, allowing liquid to flow from channel DUC1 to one or more orifices OR1.

[0044] The injection device 500 may include a flow control valve VAL1 for controlling the flow rate of liquid LIQ1. With valve VAL1 open, the injection device 500 may be arranged to guide ultrasonic waves UW1 from coupling element M1 to valve seat SEAT and / or via valve VAL1 to one or more orifices OR1.

[0045] Valve element VAL1 may optionally include an internal flow channel (e.g., DUC1) for conveying liquid LIQ1 and for transmitting ultrasonic waves UW1 via the liquid LIQ1 contained in the channel DUC1. The ultrasonic waves may propagate to valve seat SEAT1 and / or one or more orifices OR1 via liquid waveguide WG1.

[0046] Valve element VAL1 may optionally include one or more openings OPE1 for conveying liquid LIQ1 from an internal channel (DUC1) to a second external annular channel DUC2. The second channel DUC2 may be defined, for example, by valve member PIN1 and nozzle body 111. Liquid LIQ1 may flow in the annular channel DUC2 between valve member PIN1 and nozzle body 111. Ultrasound may be transmitted via the annular channel DUC2.

[0047] Transducer SPK1 converts electrical energy into mechanical vibration. Transducer SPK1 can be, for example, a piezoelectric transducer, a capacitive transducer, a magnetostrictive transducer, or an electromagnetic transducer. Transducer SPK1 can be driven by a drive unit OSC1, which provides alternating current and / or alternating voltage at an operating frequency f1. Device 500 may include drive unit OSC1, which can be arranged to drive transducer SPK1 at an operating frequency f1. The drive current and / or voltage can be coupled to transducer SPK1 via input terminals N1, N2. Transducer SPK1 causes coupling element M1 to vibrate at frequency f1. Transducer SPK1 can be arranged to vibrate at a vibration frequency (f1) in the range of 20 kHz to 3 MHz.

[0048] The transducer SPK1 may include an ultrasonic horn1 to increase the amplitude of the oscillation. The ultrasonic horn may have shapes such as conical, exponential, or chain-like. When the amplitude at the input of the horn is equal to the amplitude at the input of the cylindrical bar, the amplitude at the output of the conical horn1 may, for example, be approximately three times the amplitude at the output of the cylindrical bar. When the amplitudes at the inputs are equal, the amplitude at the output of the exponential horn1 may, for example, be approximately four times the amplitude at the output of the cylindrical bar. When the amplitudes at the inputs are equal, the amplitude at the output of the chain-like horn1 may, for example, be approximately five times the amplitude at the output of the cylindrical bar.

[0049] The control unit ECU1 of device 500 can control the operation of transducer SPK1 via driver OSC1. The control unit ECU1 can provide control signals S to driver OSC1. OSC1 It is used to start and / or stop the oscillation of transducer SPK1.

[0050] Nozzle NOZ1 may include nozzle body 111. Nozzle body 111 may also serve as a sheath surrounding valve member PIN1 and valve seat SEAT1.

[0051] The device 500 may include a valve guide member 112 for defining the lateral position of the valve member PIN1. The valve member PIN1 may be arranged to slide relative to the valve guide member 112 in an axial direction (SZ and / or -SZ). In an embodiment, a portion of the nozzle body 111 may be arranged to operate as the valve guide member 112.

[0052] The injection device 500 may include an injector unit 100. The injector unit 100 may include an injector nozzle NOZ1, one or more orifices OR1, a valve VAL1, and an actuator ACU1 (e.g., COIL1).

[0053] The actuator ACU1 can also be, for example, a piezoelectric actuator.

[0054] The injection device may have a central axis AX1. SX, SY, and SZ represent orthogonal directions. Axis AX1 may be parallel to direction SZ.

[0055] Figure 2 The illustration shows, by way of example, liquid LIQ1 contained in combiner CMB1 and flow passages DUC1, DUC2 when flow control valve VAL1 is open. Inlet port IN1 is in fluid communication with one or more orifices OR1 via flow passages DUC1, DUC2.

[0056] Liquid LIQ1 has a free surface FSRF1 at orifice OR1. Free surface FSRF1 is the interface between liquid LIQ1 and gas (AIR1). The gas can be, for example, air AIR1. Ultrasonic waves UW1 and UW2 can promote atomization by inducing oscillations on free surface FSRF1. Ultrasonic waves UW1 and UW2 can also promote atomization by inducing microscopic surface waves on free surface FSRF1.

[0057] The jetting device 500 has an acoustic transmission line APATH1 for transmitting ultrasonic waves UW0, UW1, and UW2 from the coupling element M1 to the free surface FSRF1. The acoustic transmission line APATH1 has a length L. APATH1 Symbol L APATH1 It can also refer to the distance L between the coupling element M1 and the orifice OR1. APATH1 The distance L between coupling element M1 and one or more orifices OR1 APATH1 This can be, for example, within the range of 50mm to 500mm.

[0058] The acoustic transmission line APATH1 includes a liquid waveguide WG1. The liquid waveguide WG1 has a length L. WG1 The symbol UW0 may refer to the ultrasonic wave in the combiner CMB1. The symbol UW1 may refer to the ultrasonic wave in the first flow channel DUC1. The symbol UW2 may refer to the ultrasonic wave in the second flow channel DUC2. The combiner CMB1, one or more flow channels DUC1, DUC2, and flow control valve VAL1 (when in the open position) allow the liquid LIQ1 to flow from inlet IN1 to orifice OR1 via FLOW1. The inner surface of the combiner CMB1 may also define the flow channel DUC0 for the liquid LIQ1.

[0059] The symbol UW0 can refer to the primary ultrasonic wave propagating in liquid LIQ1 near the wetting surface SRF0 of coupling member M1. The symbol UW1 can refer to the ultrasonic wave propagating in liquid LIQ1, which is contained in the first flow channel DUC1. The symbol UW2 can refer to the ultrasonic wave propagating in liquid LIQ1, which is contained in the second flow channel DUC2. Coupling member M1 can form the primary ultrasonic wave UW0 in liquid LIQ1 contained in combiner CMB1. Combiner CMB1 can form a first ultrasonic wave UW1 by coupling a portion of the primary ultrasonic wave UW0 into liquid LIQ1, which is contained in the first flow channel DUC1. Liquid waveguide WG1 can form a second ultrasonic wave UW2 by coupling a portion of the first ultrasonic wave UW1 into liquid LIQ1 contained in the second flow channel DUC2.

[0060] A portion of the ultrasonic wave can be reflected back at the location where the cross-section of the liquid waveguide WG1 changes. The acoustic impedance of the liquid waveguide WG1 can change at the location where its cross-section changes. The sound pressure level (p) of the second ultrasonic wave UW2... UW2 It can be lower than the sound pressure level (p) of the main ultrasonic wave UW0. UW0 ).

[0061] The acoustic transmission line APATH1 can be sized to have low loss. The liquid waveguide WG1 can be sized to have low loss. The dimensions of the acoustic transmission line APATH1 can be selected, for example, such that the sound pressure level (p) in the liquid (LIQ1) at one or more orifices (OR1) is... UW2 The sound pressure level (pU) can be greater than that in the liquid (LIQ1) at the coupling element (M1). W0 10% of the sound pressure. The sound pressure is the same as the static pressure (p) of the liquid LIQ1. LIQ1 The local oscillating pressure deviation is described. The pressure deviation oscillates at an ultrasonic frequency f1.

[0062] The dimensions of the flow channels DUC0, DUC1, and DUC2 can be designed to reduce or avoid reflections. In an embodiment, device 500 may include, for example, an impedance matching cone between a flow channel (e.g., DUC0) and the next flow channel (e.g., DUC1) to reduce reflections.

[0063] In this embodiment, the reflecting portion of the ultrasonic wave can also be arranged to facilitate the formation of a standing wave in the first acoustic path APATH1. At least a portion of the waveguide WG1 can be sized to resonate at the vibration frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1.

[0064] The acoustic transmission line APATH1 can be straight or curved. A straight acoustic transmission line APATH1 can, for example, reduce or minimize losses. A curved acoustic transmission line APATH1 can, for example, position the transducer in a suitable location relative to the engine ENG1, for example, to facilitate engine maintenance and / or to facilitate device 500 maintenance.

[0065] The flow channels DUC0, DUC1, and DUC2 can be, for example, straight, curved, or angled. Straight channels can provide lower losses than curved or angled channels.

[0066] The injection device 500 may include, for example, an actuator coil COIL1 to open and / or close valve VAL1. The distance L between the coupling element M1 and one or more orifices OR1... APATH1 This can be, for example, greater than the distance (L) between the actuator coil COIL1 and one or more orifices OR1. C1 The distance L between coupling element M1 and one or more orifices OR1 APATH1 This can be, for example, greater than the distance (L) between the farthest edge of the actuator coil COIL1 and one or more orifices OR1. C2 The actuator coil COIL1 can be located between the coupling element M1 and one or more orifices OR1. This allows for effective cooling of, for example, the transducer SPK1 and / or the actuator ACU1.

[0067] refer to Figure 3 The reciprocating internal combustion engine ENG1 may include cylinders CYL1, cylinder head HEAD1, intake manifold MAN1, and one or more valves VAL2. In an embodiment, the intake manifold may distribute air to a number of cylinders CYL1. The intake manifold MAN1 may also be part of the intake manifold. Fuel (e.g., FUEL2) may be burned in the combustion chamber COMBU1 of cylinder CYL1. Combustion air AIR1 may enter the combustion chamber COMBU1 via the intake manifold MAN1 and via the intake valve VAL2.

[0068] The injection system 1000 of engine ENG1 may include an injection device 500 and an air intake MAN1. The injection system 1000 can form a mixture MIX1 of air AIR1 and atomized liquid LIQ1. The mixture MIX1 can enter the combustion chamber COMBU1 via valve VAL2.

[0069] Liquid LIQ1 can be a flammable substance. Liquid LIQ1 can be a fuel. Liquid LIQ1 can be, for example, methanol (CH3OH), another flammable liquid, liquefied ammonia (NH3), or another liquefied flammable gas. Liquid LIQ1 can be a non-flammable liquid additive, such as water (H2O).

[0070] The cylinder head HEAD1 may optionally include one or more injector units 200, for example, for injecting fuel FUEL2 into the combustion space COMBU1 of the cylinder CYL1. In an embodiment, the injection device 500 may inject atomized first fuel LIQ1 into the combustion space COMBU1 via the intake port MAN1, and the second injector unit 200 may inject second fuel FUEL1 directly into the combustion space COMBU1. The first fuel LIQ1 may be, for example, methanol or ammonia. The second fuel L2 may be, for example, diesel fuel. The atomized second fuel L2 may be used as, for example, an ignition fuel to ignite the atomized liquid LIQ1 in the combustion space COMBU1.

[0071] In an embodiment, the injection device 500 may also be arranged to directly inject atomized liquid LIQ1 into the combustion chamber COMBU1. The injection device 500 may replace the second injector unit 200 or be installed in addition to the second injector unit 200 onto the cylinder head HEAD1.

[0072] The pressurized liquid LIQ1 can be supplied to the inlet IN1 of the device 500, for example, via a pump system (not shown).

[0073] Coupling element M1 withstands the internal pressure p of device 500 LIQ1 With environmental pressure p A Pressure difference p between LIQ1 -p A Due to the coupling element M1, the transducer SPK1 can be removed or replaced even when the engine ENG1 is running.

[0074] The flow control valve VAL1 of the injection device 500 can be arranged to prevent unintentional flow via the orifice OR1. The flow control valve VAL1 can isolate the flow passage of the injection device 500 from the intake port MAN1 and / or the combustion chamber COMBU1. Thanks to the flow control valve VAL1, the coupling element M1 can be removed or replaced even when the engine ENG1 is running.

[0075] Figure 4a The control system SYS1 of engine ENG1 is illustrated by way of example. Engine ENG1 can be, for example, reference... Figure 3 The engine under discussion. The control system SYS1 may include a control unit ECU1 (or CNT1) for controlling the operation of the injection device 500 based on sensor data obtained from one or more sensors SEN1, SEN2, SEN3. The control unit ECU1 may control the operation of the transducer SPK1 via the driver OSC1. The control unit ECU1 may provide control signals S to the driver OSC1. OSC1 It is used to start and / or stop the oscillation of transducer SPK1.

[0076] The control unit ECU1 can control the operation of the actuator ACU1 of the flow control valve VAL1 via the driver DRV1. The control unit ECU1 can provide the driver DRV1 with control signals S for opening and / or closing the flow control valve VAL1. VAL1 .

[0077] Transducer SPK1 can be operated intermittently, for example, to reduce transducer heating and / or to increase the operating life of the injection device 500. Vibration of transducer SPK1 can begin before opening flow control valve VAL1, allowing ultrasonic waves UW2 to propagate to flow control valve VAL1 before it opens. Vibration of transducer SPK1 can be stopped, for example, when flow control valve VAL1 is closed.

[0078] The control unit ECU1 may optionally control the operation of the second injector unit 200 via the driver DRV2. The control unit ECU1 may optionally control the timing of the operation of valve VAL2 of engine ENG1 via the driver DRV4. Sensor SEN1 may be, for example, a crankshaft position sensor that provides sensor data indicating the angular position of the crankshaft of engine ENG1. The control system SYS1 may include a user interface UIF1 for receiving user input from a user and / or for providing information to a user. The user interface UIF1 may include, for example, a touchscreen and / or a manual handle for inputting the desired engine speed of engine ENG1. For example, the engine control unit ECU1 may be configured to control the operation of the injection device 500 to maintain the actual speed substantially equal to the desired speed. The control system SYS1 may include a memory MEM1 for storing computer program code PRG1. The control unit ECU1 (or CNT1) may be configured to control the operation of the injection device 500 by executing code PRG1. The control system SYS1 may include a memory MEM2 for storing a control model MODEL1. The control system SYS1 may be arranged to form control signals for the injection device and for the engine using model MODEL1. The control system SYS1 can be configured to determine the optimal control signal from sensor signal values ​​using model MODEL1. The control system SYS1 can also be configured to determine the optimal timing of the control signals for transducer SPK1 and flow control valve VAL1 from sensor signal values ​​using model MODEL1.

[0079] Sensors SEN1, SEN2, and SEN3 may include, for example, sensors for measuring one or more of the following: intake pressure (p G ), intake air velocity, intake air temperature, fuel flow rate, liquid flow rate (LIQ1), exhaust pressure, exhaust temperature, oxygen concentration in the exhaust, speed, fuel temperature, coolant temperature, camshaft position, valve position, etc.

[0080] refer to Figure 4b The control system SYS2 of the injection device 500 may include a control unit CNT1, an actuator ACU1 for the flow control valve VAL1, a driver DRV1 for the actuator ACU1, and a driver OSC1 for the transducer SPK1. The control unit CNT1 can receive control signals S from the engine control unit ECU1. 500 The control unit CNT1 can be configured based on the control signal S. 500 This controls the operation of the flow control valve VAL1 and the transducer SPK1. The control unit CNT1 can be configured to control the operation of the flow control valve VAL1 and the transducer SPK1 by providing a control signal S. VAL1 To open and / or close the flow control valve VAL1. The control unit CNT1 can be configured to open and / or close the flow control valve VAL1 by providing a control signal S. OSC1 To start and / or stop the operation of transducer SPK1. Control unit CNT1 can be based on control signal S. 500 Start and / or stop the injection of liquid LIQ1.

[0081] refer to Figure 5 The jetting device 500 may optionally have a second acoustic transmission line APATH2 for transmitting ultrasonic waves UW21, UW22 from the coupling element M1 entirely via solid materials MAT1, MAT2 to one or more orifices OR1.

[0082] Specifically, the jetting device 500 can be arranged to operate such that ultrasonic waves guided by the solid portion (CMB1, 111) of the jetting device 500 and ultrasonic waves guided by the liquid LIQ1 are in phase at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1 at one or more orifices OR1.

[0083] The jetting device 500 may include a first acoustic transmission line APATH1 for transmitting ultrasonic waves (UW1) from the coupling element M1 to one or more orifices OR1 via liquid LIQ1, wherein the jetting device 500 may further include a second acoustic transmission line APATH2 for transmitting ultrasonic waves UW21, UW22 from the coupling element M1 to one or more orifices OR1 entirely via solid materials MAT1, MAT2.

[0084] The materials MAT1, MAT2 and the size of the jetting device can be selected so that the ultrasonic waves UW22 guided by the second acoustic transmission line APATH2 and UW2 guided by the first acoustic transmission line APATH1 are substantially in phase at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1 at one or more orifices OR1.

[0085] The second sound transmission line APATH2 may, for example, include the body 111 of the combiner CMB1 and the nozzle NOZ1. The combiner CMB1 may include material MAT1. The nozzle body 111 may include material MAT2. Materials MAT1 and MAT2 may be, for example, metal. Materials MAT1 and MAT2 may be, for example, steel.

[0086] The injection device 500 can be attached to the intake duct MAN1, such that the intake duct MAN1 allows one or more orifices OR1 to vibrate in the axial direction SZ at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1. An ultrasonic wave UW22 can excite a standing wave in the second acoustic transmission line APATH2. Specifically, the ultrasonic wave UW22 can excite a standing wave in the solid nozzle body 111. The standing wave can oscillate at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1. One or more orifices OR1 can be located at the antinodes of the standing wave, which is excited in the solid nozzle body 111. Even if the antinodes of the standing wave move at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1, the nodes of the standing wave can remain substantially stationary. The injection device 500 can be supported at the location of the vibration node of the standing wave and allows one or more orifices OR1 to vibrate at the ultrasonic frequency f1. A seal SEAL1 can be arranged to allow one or more orifices OR1 to vibrate at the ultrasonic frequency f1. The seal SEAL1 can be, for example, a sliding seal or an elastic seal. The seal SEAL1 can include, for example, an O-ring made of an elastomer (rubber). The seal SEAL1 can be located anywhere, such as at a node, an antinode, or between a node and an antinode.

[0087] Alternatively, the jetting device 500 can be arranged to operate such that ultrasound is directed to the free surface FSRF1 only via the first sound transmission line APATH1 (i.e., via liquid LIQ1). In this case, the nozzle NOZ1 can also be attached to the inlet duct MAN1, such that the inlet duct MAN1 substantially prevents one or more orifices OR1 from moving at the operating frequency f1 of the transducer SPK1.

[0088] Figure 6 The spraying device 500 is shown in a three-dimensional view.

[0089] refer to Figure 7 The injection device 500 may optionally include one or more angled flow channels DUC1. The injection device 500 may include one or more transverse flow channels DUC1. The injection device 500 may include one or more curved flow channels DUC1. Angled, curved, and / or transverse flow channels may, for example, allow for a reduction in the height of the injection device 500 (in the axial direction SZ).

[0090] The device 500 may include a transducer SPK1, a combiner CMB1, and an ejector unit 100. The transducer SPK1 causes a coupling element M1 to vibrate. The vibrating coupling element M1 couples an ultrasonic wave UW1 to a liquid LIQ1, which is contained within the combiner CMB1 and flow channels DUC1 and DUC2. Flow channels DUC1 and DUC2, and the liquid LIQ1 contained within them, can operate as a liquid waveguide WG1 to guide the ultrasonic wave UW1 from the coupling element M1 to the valve seat SEAT1 via the liquid LIQ1. Flow channels DUC1 and DUC2, and the liquid LIQ1 contained within them, can also operate as a liquid waveguide WG1 to guide the ultrasonic wave UW1 from the coupling element M1 to one or more orifices OR1 via the liquid LIQ1 when the valve VAL1 is open.

[0091] In an embodiment, a portion of the wall of the metal tube may also be used as a coupling member M1 to couple ultrasound to the liquid LIQ1. For example, the wall of the fuel inlet pipe may be used as the coupling member M1.

[0092] Valve VAL1 can be opened and / or closed by actuator ACU1. In an embodiment, hydraulic pressure from liquid LIQ1 can also be utilized. LIQ1 Open valve VAL1. For example, a portion of valve component PIN1 can be operated as a piston of a hydraulic actuator. This can be achieved by applying pressure p acting on said piston. LIQ1 Valve VAL1 is opened. Valve VAL1 can be closed by using the restoring force of spring SPR1. Device 500 may include spring SPR1 and link member 72 to transmit the restoring force from spring SPR1 to valve member PIN1. A first portion of liquid LIQ1 may be directed to orifice OR1. Device 500 may include recirculation outlet OUTT1. A second portion of liquid LIQ1 may be recirculated via outlet OUT1.

[0093] The combiner CMB1 can be attached to the injector unit 100. The injector unit 100 may include an injector body 76. The combiner CMB1 can be attached to the injector body 76. The nozzle NOZ1 can be attached to the injector body 76, or the nozzle NOZ1 can be part of the injector body 76. The nozzle NOZ1 can be attached to the injector body 76, for example, via a retaining element 74. The device 500 may include a retaining element 78 for retaining the spring SPR1.

[0094] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations of the apparatus and method according to the invention are conceivable. The accompanying drawings are illustrative. The specific embodiments described above with reference to the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A spraying device (500), the spraying device comprising: -Inlet (IN1) for receiving liquid (LIQ1). - A nozzle (NOZ1) having one or more orifices (OR1) from which droplets (P1) are formed from the liquid (LIQ1). - One or more flow channels (DUC1) for conveying the liquid (LIQ1). - A coupling element (M1) for coupling ultrasound (UW1) to the liquid (LIQ1), and - A transducer (SPK1) that causes the coupling element (M1) to vibrate. The liquid (LIQ1) is delivered from the inlet (IN1) to the one or more orifices (OR1) via the one or more flow channels (DUC1). The jetting device (500) is arranged to guide the ultrasonic wave (UW1) from the coupling element (M1) to the nozzle (NOZ1) via the liquid (LIQ1) contained in the one or more flow channels (DUC1).

2. The spraying device (500) according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more flow channels (DUC1) and the liquid (LIQ1) contained in the flow channels (DUC1) operate as liquid waveguides (WG1) to guide the ultrasound waves (UW1) via the liquid (LIQ1) contained in the flow channels (DUC1).

3. The spraying device (500) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The jetting device (500) includes a first acoustic transmission line (APATH1) for transmitting the ultrasonic wave (UW1) from the coupling element (M1) to the one or more orifices (OR1) via the liquid (LIQ1), wherein the jetting device (500) includes a second acoustic transmission line (APATH2) for transmitting the ultrasonic wave (UW21, UW22) from the coupling element (M1) to the one or more orifices (OR1) entirely via solid materials (MAT1, MAT2).

4. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The coupling element (M1) is a membrane, which is arranged at a pressure (p) in the liquid (LIQ1). LIQ1 ) and environmental stress (p A The pressure difference (p) between LIQ1 -p A Under conditions where the pressure difference (p) is greater than 100 kPa, the pressure difference must be withstood. LIQ1 -p A ).

5. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The distance (L) between the coupling element (M1) and the one or more orifices (OR1) APATH1 (In the range of 50mm to 500mm) 6. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The injection device (500) includes a flow control valve (VAL1) for controlling the flow of the liquid (LIQ1), wherein, when the valve (VAL1) is open, the ultrasonic wave (UW1) is guided from the coupling element (M1) to the one or more orifices (OR1) via the valve (VAL1).

7. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The fuel injection device (500) includes a flow control valve (VAL1) for controlling the flow of the liquid (LIQ1), wherein the injection device (500) includes an actuator coil (COIL1) for opening the valve (VAL1), and the distance (L) between the coupling element (M1) and the one or more orifices (OR1) is... APATH1 The distance between the actuator coil (COIL1) and the orifice (OR1) is greater than the distance between them (L). C1 ).

8. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The transducer (SPK1) is arranged to vibrate at a frequency (f1) in the range of 20 kHz to 3 MHz.

9. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, At least a portion of the dimensions of the waveguide (WG1) is designed to resonate at the vibration frequency (f1) of the transducer (SPK1).

10. The apparatus (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The sound pressure level (p) in the liquid (LIQ1) at one or more orifices (OR1) UW2 The sound pressure level (p) in the liquid (LIQ1) at the coupling element (M1) is greater than that in the liquid (LIQ1). UW0 10% of ).

11. A reciprocating internal combustion engine (ENG1) comprising an injection device (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the injection device (500) is arranged to inject droplets (P1) into the air intake (MAN1) of the engine (ENG1).

12. A reciprocating internal combustion engine (ENG1) comprising an injection device (500) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the injection device (500) is arranged to directly inject droplets (P1) into the combustion space (COMBU1) of the cylinder (CYL1) of the engine (ENG1).

13. A method of operating the engine (ENG1) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The liquid (LIQ1) is methanol (CH3OH), ammonia (NH3), or water (H2O).

14. A method of operating an engine (ENG1) according to claim 11 or 12, the method comprising replacing the transducer (SPK1) with a second transducer while the engine (ENG1) is running.

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