State-of-the-art technology in variable compression ratio mechanism for spark ignition engine

Abstract

Present investigations deal with development of a novel variable compression ratio (VCR) mechanism and its implementation in a small and relatively large size single-cylinder engines. Operation of this mechanism is found to be smooth and effective in the running condition of the engine as well. This mechanism, when incorporated in the small size spark ignition HONDA engine, portrayed improvement in engine performance with increment in compression ratio (CR) for petrol and kerosene. Their respective optimum CRs 5.02 (petrol) and 5.27 (kerosene) are higher than the base value 4.8. In case of large size KIRLOSKAR engine, the present VCR mechanism is found to be useful while operating with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), where measurements showed that combustion duration is lower with LPG for CR 9.79 as compared with base value 9.0. The present experiments clearly demonstrate the usefulness of VCR mechanism in improving engine performance for a given fuel and broadening the range of alternative fuels burnt in the engine. Ease of fabrication, simplicity in installation, accessibility in troubleshooting and smooth run-time alterations are the advantages with the current novel mechanism.