Variable Intake Valve Actuator for Engine Output and Noise Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable intake systems for vehicles face challenges in achieving linearity in acceleration booming, minimizing intake pressure loss, and optimizing noise reduction, with semi-active systems struggling to fully open at maximum RPM and active systems increasing manufacturing costs and generating noise.
Innovation Solution
A variable intake system utilizing a linear motor actuator with a valve assembly and power transmission unit to control the opening angle of the intake valve based on engine RPM and intake pressure, employing map data to adjust the flap opening angle for optimal air intake, reducing noise and improving engine output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a semi-active actuator is used to control the intake duct opening, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but the actuator cannot fully open at maximum RPM causing loss of maximum output and degrading linearity in acceleration booming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a DC motor actuator that can dynamically adjust the intake duct opening angle across the entire RPM range, unlike semi-active actuators that are limited in their opening capability at maximum RPM. This dynamic control enables full opening at high speeds to maintain maximum engine output while also providing linearity in acceleration booming through precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operating parameters of the actuator based on engine RPM and load conditions. The control unit adjusts the intake duct opening angle according to the current operating region, optimizing performance across different speed ranges. This parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling full opening when needed while maintaining cost-effectiveness through controlled operation.
2Speed
If an active actuator with DC motor is used to achieve quick response and variable opening, then response speed is improved, but manufacturing costs increase and noise is generated at choking parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a DC motor actuator with dynamic control capability that provides quick response to opening commands while allowing optimization of the opening trajectory. The control unit can adjust the opening speed and profile based on operating conditions, achieving fast response when needed while reducing noise during operation by controlling the opening manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The system optimizes the actuator operating parameters including opening speed, opening angle, and holding angle based on engine RPM and load. By changing these parameters dynamically, the system achieves quick response capability while minimizing noise generation and managing manufacturing costs through efficient operation rather than purely hardware-based solutions.
3Productivity
If the intake duct is fully opened at high speed region, then maximum engine output is achieved, but intake pressure loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the intake duct opening angle based on real-time engine operating conditions. Rather than maintaining a fixed fully-open position, the system continuously adjusts the opening angle to optimize the balance between airflow demand and pressure loss, achieving maximum output when necessary while minimizing energy loss during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit adjusts the intake duct opening angle parameter according to engine RPM and load conditions. At high speeds, the opening angle is increased to reduce restrictions and maximize output, while at lower speeds or under specific load conditions, the opening angle is optimized to minimize pressure loss. This dynamic parameter adjustment resolves the contradiction between maximizing output and minimizing energy loss.
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
The system achieves linearity in acceleration booming, minimizes intake pressure loss, optimizes noise reduction, decreases manufacturing costs, and provides prompt and accurate control, outperforming both semi-active and active systems.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator includes a linear motor having a motor shaft linearly moved by a current applied to a permanent magnet
Data Source
AI summary
An intake system mounted to a vehicle controls an opening angle of a variable flap according to an RPM of an engine, an intake pressure, and an opening angle of a variable flap to optimize performance in various operation regions by detecting engine RPM and an intake air pressure, and determining an operation region based on the RPM of the engine; applying the intake pressure to determine a target amount of air and an opening angle of a variable flap for an operation region; driving an actuator to adjust an opening angle of the variable flap to a target opening angle; and analyzing an operation position of the actuator to detect an opening angle of the variable flap, and, when the target opening angle is not followed, correcting a drive of the actuator such that an opening angle of the variable flap follows the target opening angle.