Structural analysis, survey and classification of kinematic chains for Atkinson cycle engines

Abstract

This paper presents an Atkinson Cycle mechanisms classification. The proposed classification is based on mechanism theory, dividing the mechanisms into two main classes and eight subclasses. The reconfigurability of Atkinson Cycle mechanisms is discussed as well as the mechanism characteristics for each class. This classification was applied to the engines found in bibliography and patent survey. Both surveys were necessary to yield a complete state of the art, regarding not only academic but also technological advances. These surveys and the Atkinson Cycle engine classification expose the wide window of opportunities for engine development. The use of reconfigurable Atkinson Cycle engines can be a powerful tool to develop more efficient vehicles.

The misleading total replacement of internal combustion engines by electric motors and a study of the Brazilian ethanol importance for the sustainable future of mobility: a review

“…1 projects, the presence of internal combustion engines on the world market by 2050 will be predominant over other propulsion systems [8], while the total number of vehicles estimated for the year 2035 is 1.7 billion [9]. Thus, several technologies have been applied to produce ever more efficient engines, such as fuel direct injection [10][11][12], continuously variable valve timing [13,14], turbulent jet ignition [15], low-temperature dual-fuel combustion [16], unconventional cycles and downsizing strategies combined with the use of biofuels [17][18][19]. In this way, it is possible to produce compact turbocharged engines that have a compatible performance with much larger units and yet produce lower pollutant emissions, consuming less fuel [20].…”