Variable Compression Crankshaft Mechanism for Adaptive Engine Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current internal combustion engines lack a simple and cost-effective solution for dynamically varying the compression ratio, which limits their performance across different fuel types and operating conditions, leading to inefficient fuel use and increased pollution.
Innovation Solution
A variable compression ratio device combining an eccentric actuator and a rotation coupler, with internal and external gear mechanisms, allows the crankshaft position to be dynamically adjusted by an electronic control unit, enabling the variation of compression ratios without increasing the number of moving parts associated with pistons and connecting rods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a dynamic variable compression ratio solution is implemented, then engine performance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the variable compression ratio mechanism within the existing engine structure by nesting the eccentric actuator and rotation coupler components into the crankshaft assembly. The gear of internal teeth is positioned within the crankshaft housing, and the eccentric actuator components are arranged concentrically around the crankshaft journal, allowing the variable compression ratio functionality to be embedded without adding external bulk or complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components: the rotation coupler simultaneously transmits rotational motion and accommodates eccentric movement, the gear of internal teeth serves both as a structural housing and as a gear mechanism, and the eccentric actuator integrates the compression ratio control function with the existing crankshaft rotation function, reducing the need for separate dedicated components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing engines are modified with variable compression ratio technology, then adaptability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the variable compression ratio system into separable modules: the eccentric actuator assembly can be installed independently, the rotation coupler with gear of internal teeth can be fitted as a separate component, and these modules can be retrofitted into existing engines without complete disassembly, facilitating easier manufacturing and installation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotation coupler with gear of internal teeth is designed to accommodate different crankshaft configurations and engine types, making it a universal component that can be adapted to various existing engine architectures. The gear mechanism serves multiple functions including rotation transmission, eccentric accommodation, and structural support, reducing the need for engine-specific customizations.
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 enhances engine performance by optimizing compression ratios for various fuels and operating conditions, reducing fuel consumption, and lowering emissions, while allowing for the use of smaller, lighter engines with equivalent power, and can be retrofitted into existing engines as adaptive kits.
Implementation Method 1
A rotation coupler is provided, formed by a gear of internal teeth, the crown and an axis with external teeth gear, the sprocket
Implementation Method 2
an elaborate mechanism, called eccentric actuator, which allows, by means of the movement of these eccentrics, to change, under the command of an electronic control unit, the relative position of the crankshaft in relation to the top dead of the pistons
Data Source
AI summary
A variable compression ratio device configured to be incorporated into an internal combustion engine. The internal combustion engine including one or more cylinders housing pistons that are coupled to a crankshaft. The variable compression ratio device including rotation coupler assemblies formed by gears that have internal and external teeth that are disposed at distal ends of the crankshaft to cause the crankshaft to rotate, and two or more eccentrics configured to cause translation variations of the crankshaft. Where the two or more eccentrics are positioned on trunnions of the crankshaft before and after each connecting rod and respective balances, the translation variations are to be converted into rotation and transmitted to a toothed gear and to a flange of a flywheel, and the two or more eccentrics are aligned with corresponding gears to cause changes in translation of a position of the crankshaft.