Vacuum Hose Flow Restrictor for CMCV Response Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing induction systems for motor vehicle engines with two cylinder banks require separate vacuum solenoid valves to equalize response time between cylinder banks, leading to increased complexity, space requirements, and costs.
Innovation Solution
The use of a flow restrictor in the air intake manifold, integrated into hoses or actuators, or within T-fittings, to control airflow and synchronize the response of Charge Motion Control Valves (CMCV) between cylinder banks, potentially eliminating the need for a second vacuum solenoid valve.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a second vacuum actuator solenoid valve is added to equalize response time between cylinder banks, then response time equalization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding a flow restrictor only to the hose serving the second cylinder bank, creating an asymmetric restriction that compensates for the inherent response time difference between banks. This localized modification equalizes performance without requiring symmetric changes to both sides of the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow resistance parameter of the pneumatic circuit by introducing a flow restrictor with specific aperture dimensions. This parameter modification adjusts the vacuum buildup rate to achieve matched response times between cylinder banks, transforming a timing discrepancy into a controlled flow characteristic.
2Manufacturing precision
If a second vacuum actuator solenoid valve is added to equalize response time, then response time equalization is improved, but packaging space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the flow control function from the solenoid valve assembly and implements it separately through a dedicated flow restrictor component. This separation allows the solenoid valve to remain single-unit while achieving dual-bank response equalization through the auxiliary restrictor element in the pneumatic circuit.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictor is nested within the existing hose infrastructure, fitting inside the hollow bore of the hose that connects to the second cylinder bank. This nested arrangement utilizes existing space rather than requiring additional mounting volume, as the restrictor becomes part of the fluid transport pathway.
3Manufacturing precision
If a second vacuum actuator solenoid valve is added to equalize response time, then response time equalization is improved, but the number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow restrictor serves multiple functions: it controls vacuum buildup rate, equalizes response time between banks, and acts as a flow metering device. This multi-functionality achieves response equalization without requiring additional solenoid valves or control systems, consolidating multiple roles into a single passive component.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow restrictor acts as an intermediary element in the pneumatic circuit between the single solenoid valve and the second cylinder bank. It mediates the vacuum signal transmission by controlling flow rate, allowing the single solenoid valve to effectively control both banks with equalized response characteristics.
4Device complexity
If a flow restrictor is used to equalize response time, then device complexity is reduced, but airflow restriction is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The flow restrictor's aperture dimensions are specifically designed to provide adequate vacuum signal transmission while controlling the rate of vacuum buildup. The restricted airflow is sufficient to actuate the CMCV within the required time frame, balancing flow restriction with functional performance requirements.
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 solution balances the response time of CMCV between cylinder banks, reducing the need for additional hardware, simplifying assembly, and enhancing the reliability and space efficiency of the induction system while maintaining synchronized operation.
Implementation Method 1
The air flow restrictor may include a main body portion and an end wall having a reduced diameter air flow aperture. The air flow restrictor restricts air flow through the hose by a predetermined degree to tailor a response of the actuator
Implementation Method 2
A vacuum source, such as the intake manifold, may be used to provide a vacuum pressure to actuate the CMCV
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to various apparatus for controllably restricting an air flow to a vacuum controlled actuator in a vehicle induction system for the purpose of controlling a response of the actuator. In one embodiment the apparatus is a hose component having a hose that forms a flow channel, and which has an air flow restrictor seated within the flow channel. The air flow restrictor has a main body portion and an end wall having a reduced diameter air flow aperture. The air flow restrictor restricts air flow through the hose by a predetermined degree to tailor a response of the actuator in flow communication with the hose.