Engine Compressor Backflow Prevention via Intake Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine systems with multiple compressors face challenges in maintaining efficient air flow due to backflow issues, which complicates closed-loop control and increases system costs.
Innovation Solution
Adjusting the speed of a third compressor and the position of a valve in the engine air intake to manage air flow, ensuring that air flows through the compressor with the higher capacity and reducing backflow, thereby simplifying compressor control and reducing electrical consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple compressors are used to increase engine air flow capacity, then engine performance is improved, but air backflow through compressors occurs reducing compressor efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is positioned upstream of the compressors in the air intake passage to preemptively control and direct air flow before it reaches the compressors. This preliminary action ensures that air flow is properly directed through the intended compressor path, preventing backflow from occurring in the first place.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve acts as an intermediary device between the air intake and the compressors, mediating the air flow direction. By positioning the valve in the air intake passage upstream of the compressors, it serves as a control mechanism that directs air flow through the appropriate compressor path, preventing backflow through the lower capacity compressor.
2Loss of energy
If closed-loop control is applied to each compressor to prevent backflow, then compressor efficiency is maintained, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex closed-loop control system for each compressor is replaced by extracting the control function into a single valve mechanism positioned upstream. Instead of controlling each compressor individually, the valve centrally manages air flow distribution, eliminating the need for complex multi-compressor control systems while maintaining efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve in the air intake passage performs the universal function of controlling air flow to multiple compressors. Rather than requiring separate control systems for each compressor, this single valve handles the multi-functionality of directing air flow appropriately across different operating conditions, simplifying the overall control architecture.
3Loss of energy
If a valve is positioned in the air intake upstream of compressors to direct air flow, then backflow is prevented, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of implementing complex active control systems for each compressor, the solution uses a passive valve mechanism that copies the control function through its mechanical design. The valve's positioning and mechanical operation replicate the air flow management that would otherwise require complex electronic control, achieving backflow prevention through simpler mechanical means.
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
This approach enhances engine performance by preventing backflow at middle engine air flow levels, simplifies compressor control, and reduces electrical consumption, applicable to both electrically and mechanically driven systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first compressor may supply a first amount of air to the engine and a second compressor may supply a second amount of air to the engine
Implementation Method 2
different pressure ratios may develop across the first and second compressors
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for operating an engine that includes four compressors for two cylinder banks are described. In one example, output of two compressors and positions of valves are adjusted responsive to an engine air flow amount to prevent air from back flowing through a compressor. Output from the two compressors may be combined for higher engine air flow amounts.