Gaseous fuel combustion system and method utilizing a piston crown shape feature for improved fuel-air mixing

A non-axisymmetric piston design with a combustion bowl and reentrant surface in hydrogen-fueled engines induces a tumbling flow for enhanced fuel-air mixing, addressing combustion challenges and improving engine efficiency and stability.

WO2026155788A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-07-23CATERPILLAR INC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
CATERPILLAR INC
Filing Date
2025-10-15
Publication Date
2026-07-23

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Designing pistons for internal combustion engines that efficiently combust hydrogen fuel poses challenges due to its easy ignition and rapid flame speed, leading to unpredictable engine operation and performance.

Method used

A non-axisymmetric piston design with a combustion bowl featuring an injection-impingement surface and a reentrant surface, along with a fluid dispersion path, promotes enhanced mixing of gaseous fuel and air by inducing a tumbling flow, utilizing a gaseous fuel injector to target the injection-impingement surface and redirect fuel upwardly and inwardly.

Benefits of technology

The design enhances fuel-air mixing, improving combustion efficiency and stability in hydrogen-fueled engines by promoting a cooperative tumbling effect, thereby optimizing engine performance.

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Abstract

A piston (24) includes a piston crown (82) defining a center axis and having a piston rim (92) extending around a combustion bowl (94). The combustion bowl includes an injection-impingement surface (98) extending a first partial circumferential extent around the axis, a bowl floor (112) extending to a bowl wall (114), and a reentrant surface (100) positioned opposite the injection-impingement surface and extending a second partial circumferential extent around the center axis. The combustion bowl further forms a fluid dispersion path originating at the injection-impingement surface traversing the bowl floor and the bowl wall and extending to the reentrant surface. A gaseous fuel internal combustion engine (10) and related methodology are also disclosed.
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