Valve Position Detection Using Segmented Optical Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining valve positions in internal combustion engines with multiple valves are limited, as they can only detect the opening of the first valve, making it difficult to independently measure the opening and closing times of individual valves due to light interference from other open valves.
Innovation Solution
A method involving illumination of the combustion chamber with a light source and the use of light sensors positioned on the side of each valve to detect light emerging from the chamber, allowing for independent determination of each valve's position by capturing light intensity changes or interruptions, regardless of the positions of other valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a light source illuminates the combustion chamber to detect valve opening, then the opening time of the first valve can be detected, but the opening times of subsequent valves cannot be detected due to light interference from already open valves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single light detection path into multiple separate detection paths, with each path assigned to detect a specific valve. By providing individual light sources and light receivers for each valve, the system can independently measure the opening and closing times of each valve without interference from other valves, thus resolving the information loss problem.
2Reliability
If tactile measurement devices are used to measure valve timing on complete engines, then valve train functionality can be checked, but the devices are very large, expensive, and require regular calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical tactile measurement system with an optical measurement system. Instead of using physical contact between measurement probes and valve components, the invention uses light sources and light-sensitive receivers to detect valve positions optically, thereby eliminating the need for large, expensive, and calibration-intensive mechanical devices.
3Measurement precision
If optical measurement is performed through the combustion chamber, then valve position can be detected, but the method only detects the first valve opening and cannot determine subsequent valve openings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement system into multiple independent measurement channels, each dedicated to a specific valve. This segmentation allows each valve's opening and closing events to be detected independently without being obscured by the state of other valves, thus enabling precise measurement of all valve positions.
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 precise, individual measurement of valve positions and control times, allowing for valve-specific testing without interference from other valves, and can be applied during a cold test or using a towed drive.
Implementation Method 1
Illuminating a combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, detecting light emanating from the illuminated combustion chamber on a side of the valve to be identified facing away from the combustion chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
A method is provided for ascertaining a valve position of a valve (11a, b, 12a, b) of an internal combustion engine having a multiplicity of valves (11a, b, 12a, b), having the following steps: illuminating a combustion chamber (13) of the internal combustion engine, detecting light emerging from the illuminated combustion chamber (13) on a side, averted from the combustion chamber (13), of the valve (11a, b, 12a, b) for ascertainment, and determining the valve position of the valve (11a, b, 12a, b) for ascertainment by way of the detected light. Also described is a device for ascertaining a valve position of at least one valve (11a, b, 12a, b) of an internal combustion engine.