Eccentric Ring-Gear Coupling for Variable Engine Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing internal combustion engines with fixed compression ratios are inefficient in adapting to varying fuel types and operating conditions, leading to suboptimal performance and increased fuel consumption and pollution.
Innovation Solution
A crankshaft coupling device that allows variable compression ratio adjustment through a stepper motor-driven eccentric mechanism, transforming rotational and translational movements of the crankshaft into rotational movements only, using coupling assemblies with internal and external gears to change the piston position and combustion chamber volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed compression ratio is used in internal combustion engines, then the engine structure is simple and reliable, but the engine efficiency is suboptimal when adapting to varying fuel types and operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a variable compression ratio mechanism that dynamically adjusts the compression ratio based on operating conditions and fuel type. The mechanism includes movable pistons with adjustable positions, variable stroke length capability, and real-time control systems that modify engine geometry to optimize compression for different scenarios, transforming the static engine design into a dynamic adaptive system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes key geometric parameters of the engine including stroke length, bore diameter, and piston position to vary the compression ratio. By adjusting these physical dimensions and configurations, the engine can optimize combustion chamber volume and compression pressure for different fuel types and operating conditions, directly improving engine efficiency and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable compression ratio mechanisms are added to internal combustion engines, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs multi-functional components that serve multiple purposes: the variable compression mechanism also functions as a stroke length adjuster, the movable pistons serve both compression and displacement functions, and the control system integrates with existing engine management. This reduces overall system complexity by combining functions rather than adding separate systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested structural arrangements where variable compression components are integrated within existing engine architecture. The adjustable mechanism is housed within the cylinder block, pistons are nested within cylinders, and control elements are embedded in the engine structure, minimizing space requirements and reducing the number of external components needed
3Loss of energy
If variable compression ratio adjustment mechanisms are implemented, then fuel consumption and pollution are reduced, but manufacturing cost and device weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the engine into modular segments with independent variable compression control for different cylinders or engine banks. This segmentation allows selective implementation in specific applications, reduces manufacturing complexity by standardizing modular components, and enables incremental adoption rather than requiring complete engine redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes adjustable geometric parameters including variable stroke length, movable pistons, and configurable bore dimensions to optimize compression ratio. By changing these physical parameters, the engine achieves improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without requiring fundamentally different engine architecture, thereby controlling manufacturing costs
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
Enhances engine efficiency by optimizing compression ratio dynamically, reducing fuel consumption, pollution, and enabling lighter, cheaper engines with equivalent power, while minimizing wear on moving parts.
Implementation Method 1
a stepper motor-driven eccentric mechanism
Implementation Method 2
a crankshaft coupling device that allows variable compression ratio adjustment through a stepper motor-driven eccentric mechanism
Implementation Method 3
transforming rotational and translational movements of the crankshaft into rotational movements only, using coupling assemblies with internal and external gears
Data Source
AI summary
A rotation coupler for an internal combustion engine includes a ring gear configured to rotate about a first axis. The rotation coupler further includes an input pinion gear configured to transfer rotation of a crankshaft of the internal combustion engine to the ring gear to cause the ring gear to rotate about the first axis. The input pinion gear is eccentrically movable relative to the first axis. The rotation coupler further includes an output pinion gear configured to transfer rotation of the ring gear about the first axis to a flywheel of the internal combustion engine.