Dual Pathway Air Induction System for Turbo Lag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine systems with turbochargers face turbo lag due to the delay in providing boost pressure, which degrades engine performance at low loads and affects fuel economy, especially under high ambient temperatures or humidity conditions.
Innovation Solution
A dual pathway air induction system that draws cool compressed air at high loads and ambient air at low loads, with trapped compressed air serving as a boost pressure reservoir, releasing it when temperature exceeds a threshold to maintain engine performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If compressed air is held in the second duct during low load conditions, then throttle response can be improved when demand increases, but the density of the compressed air degrades due to heat transfer from ambient air
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors temperature of the held compressed air and changes the state parameter (temperature) by releasing the air when it exceeds a threshold, thereby maintaining air density and preventing degradation of throttle response performance
Solution Approach 2:
The engine controller receives feedback about the temperature of held compressed air and adjusts the valve timing accordingly, releasing air when temperature exceeds a threshold to maintain optimal air density for throttle response
2Use of energy by moving object
If the CAC is operated during low load conditions to cool compressed air, then fuel economy is improved, but the benefit is lost when air is held in the sealed second duct
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary cooling of compressed air during low load conditions when fuel economy is prioritized, then maintains this cooled state by releasing the air only when temperature exceeds a threshold, ensuring both fuel economy and boosting potential are maintained
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts CAC operation based on load conditions and air temperature, enabling cooling during low load conditions while preventing temperature rise that would degrade boosting potential
3Reliability
If ambient air is used during high ambient temperature or humidity conditions, then engine performance is maintained, but the density of the air decreases reducing throttle response
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the temperature parameter of the air supply by releasing held compressed air that has been cooled, thereby increasing air density and improving throttle response even when ambient conditions are hot or humid
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 reduces turbo lag by ensuring only cool, dense air is used for boost, improving throttle response and maintaining engine performance while minimizing fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
the charge air cooler (CAC) to cool the compressed air, thereby reducing the temperature and increasing the density of the air
Implementation Method 2
a turbocharger, comprising a compressor driven by a turbine
Implementation Method 3
the expansion of the exhaust gas causes the turbine to spin
Data Source
AI summary
Methods are provided for engines. In one example method, at higher engine load, cool compressed air is drawn into an engine via an air intake passage, and at lower engine load, ambient air is drawn into the engine via a duct while retaining cooled compressed air in the air intake passage. The compressed air may be released from the air intake passage based on heat transferred to the compressed air during the lower engine load, in at least one example.