System based on thermal control of the HCCI technology developed for reduction of the vehicle NOX emissions in order to fulfil the future standard Euro 7

Abstract

On the present the environmental protection belongs among the most important worldwide priorities. From this reason there is valid within the framework of the European Union the standard Euro, which is specifically defined in the transport area. Nowadays the actual issue of this standard is signed Euro 6. It is established in order to eliminate most of the undesirable air pollutants. However, there is already prepared a new and even stricter emission standard Euro 7. It is a well-known fact that the actual emission standards are very hard and the automobile factories, together with the engine design concepts are trying to fulfil the new emission standards, mainly the NOX emission requirements. These circumstances also caused the infamous affair “dieselgate”. The new engine concept, which is called HCCI (Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition), could be a suitable solution of the present NOX emission problems. Principle of the HCCI technology is based on self-ignition of the homogenous fuel mixture using compression in order to reduce emissions, whereas the NOX emission level is almost negligible. However, there are also several essential problems connected with the above-mentioned innovative technology, for example a high level of pressures arising during the compression process and intensive heat release. Another serious problem is a complicated control of the self-ignition process. This article presents an original technical solution, which enables to regulate the whole self-ignition process and in this way to ensure a reliable operation of the HCCI engine. We would like to emphasize also a fact that this unique solution was applied for a patent, as well. The innovated piston combustion engine was installed in the experimental vehicle designed for participation at the international competition shell eco marathon 2018 in London focused on minimisation of the fuel consumption.