Synchronous Dynamometer Non-Inductive Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dynamometers, particularly eddy current types, are limited by slow response times due to inductive loads, making them unsuitable for transient testing and rapid load changes, which are necessary for optimizing combustion efficiency during engine cycles.
Innovation Solution
A synchronous dynamometer assembly with a non-inductive load, synchronized with engine crankshaft position and combustion events, allowing for real-time load variation using resistive or capacitive loads, monitored by crankshaft and combustion sensors, and controlled by an electronic control unit for precise load application during the combustion cycle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If eddy current dynamometer with inductive load is used, then the dynamometer can be controlled electronically, but the response time is limited due to the time constant of the inductive circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameter of the load from inductive to non-inductive (resistive). This eliminates the inductive time constant limitation while preserving electronic controllability. The resistive load allows instantaneous response to control signals, achieving microsecond-level response times necessary for transient engine testing.
2Device complexity
If conventional dynamometer with slow response time is used, then the system is simpler, but it cannot support transient testing and rapid load changes within combustion cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical dynamometer mechanisms with an electrical system consisting of a non-inductive resistive load and electronic control circuitry. This substitution enables rapid load changes through electrical switching rather than mechanical adjustment, achieving load variation within milliseconds to support transient testing and combustion cycle optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inductive load is used for electronic control, then the load can be adjusted, but the current change is limited by the inductive time constant preventing fast load application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrical parameter of the load from inductive to non-inductive (resistive). This eliminates the inductive time constant limitation while preserving electronic controllability. The resistive load allows instantaneous response to control signals, achieving microsecond-level response times necessary for transient engine testing.
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
Enables rapid and precise load control during engine combustion cycles, optimizing combustion efficiency by varying loads in real-time, particularly within the first 90 degrees after combustion, and supporting faster combustion processes.
Implementation Method 1
resistive or capacitive loads
Implementation Method 2
crankshaft monitoring means for monitoring the rotational position of the engine crankshaft
Implementation Method 3
combustion detection means for detecting a combustion event in a cylinder of the engine
Data Source
AI summary
A synchronous dynamometer assembly for applying a load to an engine during at least one portion of the combustion cycle of the engine in a synchronised manner so as to be repeatable each cycle of the engine comprises a dynamometer having a non-inductive load which is applied to the engine during operation to vary the speed of the engine. The non-inductive load is variable by varying the current delivered to it. Crankshaft monitoring means monitors the rotational position of the engine crankshaft, and combustion detection means detects a combustion event in a cylinder of the engine. Control means is operatively connected to the dynamometer for applying the load from the dynamometer to the engine for at least one part of the combustion cycle in real time such that the different loads may be applied to the engine for different parts of the combustion cycle.