US 6,907,870 B2 · Multiple operating mode engine and method of operation

Abstract

A multi-mode internal combustion engine and method of operating the engine is provided which is capable of operating in a variety of modes based on engine operating conditions to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The multi-mode engine include a fuel delivery system and control system for permitting the engine to operate in a diesel mode, a homogeneous charge dual fuel transition mode, a spark ignition or liquid spark ignition mode and/or a premixed charge compression ignition mode. The control system and method permits the engine operation to transfer between the various modes in an effective and efficient manner by controlling one or more fuel delivery devices or other engine components so as to move along a continuous transfer path while maintaining engine torque at a substantially constant level.

Claims7

Dependent claims

A multi-mode internal combustion engine capable of operating in a plurality of modes for engine operation, comprising:

an engine body;
a combustion chamber formed in the engine body;
an intake air system for delivering intake air to said combustion chamber, said intake air system including an intake port and an intake valve for controlling flow of one of air and a mixture of air and fuel through said intake port;
a fuel delivery system mounted on said engine body for supplying fuel for combustion in said combustion chamber;
a spark ignition means for initiating a start of combustion when operating in a spark ignition mode;
a variable valve timing system for varying a timing of closing of said intake valve;
a control system for controlling said variable valve timing system to, at least one of:
transfer engine operation from said spark ignition mode to a premixed charge compression ignition mode by adjusting said timing of said closing of said intake valve to increase an effective compression ratio;
and
transfer engine operation from said premixed charge compression ignition mode to said spark ignition mode by adjusting said timing of said closing of said intake valve to decrease an effective compression ratio.

7 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Multiple operating mode engine and method of operation

Life of this patent

Multiple operating mode engine and method of operation

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims7