Indirect Combustion Chamber Pressure Sensing Using Valve Movement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current combustion engine systems face challenges in accurately monitoring combustion chamber pressure due to the intrusive nature of traditional pressure sensors, which are costly and prone to durability issues in extreme thermal environments, necessitating a non-intrusive and cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
A monitoring system that senses the movement of a valve in its closed position using a proximity sensor, such as an inductive or capacitive proximity sensor, to determine combustion chamber pressure without direct exposure to the thermal environment, allowing for fewer additional components and improved durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an intrusive pressure sensor is used to sense combustion chamber pressure, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase, and reliability decreases due to thermal exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the valve as an intermediary element to transfer combustion chamber pressure information to the sensor. The valve's position, which is influenced by combustion chamber pressure, serves as a mediator that allows indirect measurement without exposing the sensor to the harsh thermal environment inside the combustion chamber.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical intrusion of a pressure sensor into the combustion chamber with a non-contact sensing method. By using a sensor that detects valve position mechanically or electromagnetically from outside the combustion chamber, the system eliminates the need for direct thermal exposure while still obtaining pressure information.
2Measurement precision
If an intrusive pressure sensor is installed in the combustion chamber, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components in crowded space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing valve serve multiple functions: its primary function of controlling gas flow is maintained, and it additionally serves as a pressure sensing element. By detecting the valve's position, the system obtains combustion chamber pressure information without adding dedicated pressure sensing components to the crowded combustion chamber space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an indirect copy or representation of the combustion chamber pressure state through valve position. Instead of directly measuring pressure with a sensor in the combustion chamber, the system measures the valve's position, which is a proxy that correlates with combustion chamber pressure conditions.
3Measurement precision
If an intrusive pressure sensor is used, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes existing engine components (the valve and its actuation mechanism) that are already part of the engine assembly, rather than requiring expensive specialized pressure sensors designed for combustion chamber installation. This approach leverages components that are already manufactured and installed, reducing additional 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
This approach enables accurate determination of combustion chamber pressure, allowing for efficient engine control and operation adjustments, reducing costs and enhancing durability by avoiding direct thermal exposure, thus improving engine efficiency and emission control.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor operable to sense movement of a valve while the valve is in its closed position. The sensor generates data indicative of the sensed movement of the valve
Data Source
AI summary
In a monitoring system and method for monitoring pressure in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, a sensor is operable to sense movement of a valve while the valve is in its closed position. The sensor generates data indicative of the sensed movement of the valve. A control system is in communication with the sensor to receive the data indicative of the sensed movement of the valve in the closed position thereof. The control system is operable to determine the pressure in the combustion chamber based at least in part on the sensed movement of the valve. In other aspects, operation of the engine is adjusted based at least in part on the determined pressure in the combustion chamber.