Automated Throttle Revving for Engine Induction Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
During engine induction services, manual revving of the vehicle engine by technicians is prone to human error and limits their ability to perform other tasks, as it requires frequent and precise activation of the throttle to effectively propel cleaning agents across engine components without causing hydrolocking.
Innovation Solution
An engine revving device that automatically controls the throttle pedal using a linear actuator and programmable controller, allowing for precise and timed revving of the engine, either manually triggered or fully automated, to improve service efficiency and reduce human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual revving is performed by technicians, then the engine can be revved to propel cleaning agents across engine components, but it is prone to human error and limits the technician's ability to perform other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the revving device automatically controls the throttle pedal without requiring continuous human intervention. The device can operate autonomously based on programmed parameters, freeing the technician from manual revving tasks while maintaining consistent and accurate revving cycles throughout the service process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation of throttle control with an automated mechanical system. A motorized actuator or robotic mechanism substitutes the technician's hand operation, providing precise and repeatable throttle activation. This mechanical substitution eliminates human error in timing and force application while enabling the technician to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
2Manufacturing precision
If frequent and precise throttle activation is required to propel cleaning agents, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but the technician cannot focus on other tasks
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a replicated version of the throttle activation function through the automated revving device. Instead of the technician directly operating the throttle, the automated system copies and executes the required throttle activation pattern with precise timing and force. This allows the cleaning process to maintain its required precision while the technician is freed to perform other service tasks concurrently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary programming of the revving parameters before the service begins. The optimal throttle activation timing, duration, and force are predetermined and configured in advance. During the actual service, the pre-programmed system automatically executes these precise activations without requiring real-time technician intervention, allowing the technician to allocate time to other tasks while the precision revving occurs autonomously.
3Productivity
If automated revving is implemented, then technician productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary automated device that acts as a mediator between the technician's intent and the throttle control. This intermediary revving device handles the complex coordination of timing, force application, and cycle management, while presenting a simple interface to the technician. The intermediary absorbs the system complexity, allowing the overall service process to become more efficient without requiring the technician to manage complex controls.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device enables more precise and efficient engine revving during services, allowing technicians to focus on other tasks while ensuring effective cleaning agent distribution without risking engine performance, thus enhancing service effectiveness and safety.
Implementation Method 1
An automated throttle control device includes a linear actuator in communication with a throttle pedal of a vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
Revving an engine may be helpful in various contexts, such as when servicing the vehicle. For example, in some types of services, a cleaning agent may be introduced into the intake and surrounding regions of an engine, and the engine may be revved to reduce a likelihood that the cleaning agent might puddle. In some instances, a device can be positioned within a vehicle interior and can be used to automatically rev the vehicle engine by depressing on the vehicle throttle. In other examples, an engine revving device may send a signal to an electronic-controlled throttle actuator.