Variable Intake Conduit Length Control for Motorcycle Engine Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intake control devices for straddle type vehicles, such as motorcycles, cause abrupt changes in engine output torque when adjusting the intake conduit length, leading to uncomfortable ride experiences.
Innovation Solution
An intake control device that adjusts the intake conduit length between a first and a second length based on predetermined engine speed thresholds, where the thresholds are set to match engine output torque levels at both lengths, using a change control mechanism and throttle valve opening detection to smoothly transition between lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the intake conduit length is changed from a first length to a second length when engine speed reaches a predetermined threshold value, then high intake efficiency over a wide range of engine speed is achieved, but the engine output torque changes abruptly causing uncomfortable ride feelings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the intake conduit length based on engine operating conditions (engine speed and throttle valve opening). The system transitions between a first length and a second length of the intake conduit according to predetermined threshold values, optimizing intake efficiency across different engine speeds while managing torque transitions through carefully selected switching points
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the intake conduit length adjustable and variable rather than fixed. The intake conduit length changing mechanism allows the system to adapt its configuration in real-time based on engine speed and throttle valve opening, enabling optimal performance across varying operating conditions while managing the transition characteristics
2Productivity
If the intake conduit length is adjusted to optimize engine performance, then intake efficiency improves, but ride comfort deteriorates due to abrupt torque changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes by establishing predetermined threshold values for engine speed and throttle valve opening that govern when transitions between different intake conduit lengths should occur. These threshold parameters are carefully selected to optimize the balance between intake efficiency and torque transition smoothness, improving ride comfort while maintaining performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring engine speed and throttle valve opening to determine when transitions between intake conduit lengths should occur. The system uses this feedback information to trigger length changes at optimal moments, ensuring that transitions happen when they will have minimal impact on ride comfort while maintaining intake efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an intake control device for an engine (50) of a vehicle comprising a change control means (11a) for changing a length of an intake conduit (30) from a first length (L1) to a second length (L2) shorter than the first length (L1), and from the second length (L2) to the first length (L1), according to whether or not an engine speed has reached a predetermined threshold value, wherein the threshold value applied by the change control means (11a) has been predetermined on the basis of an engine output torque in the state of the intake conduit (30) set to the first length (L1) and an engine output torque in the state of the intake conduit (30) set to the second length (L2).