Re:Fully digital valves open up engine possibilities
by jondumbau on Sunday August 12, 2018 @08:17PM
(#17747232)
Nitpicky, but compression release for easy (easier..) starting is already a thing. It talks about completely opening the valves so the starter only overcomes friction. Presumably they're talking about having the cylinders that aren't yet fired spinning over freely? Otherwise it's a very efficient way to spin and engine that can't possibly start without "compressing gasses".
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Re:Fully digital valves open up engine possibilities
by taneq on Sunday August 12, 2018 @11:07PM
(#17747793)
I guess it'd lower the starting torque which might let them use a smaller starter motor? You'd spin the engine for a couple of revolutions, then use the stored kinetic energy to kick start the engine.
Re:Fully digital valves open up engine possibilities
by TheSpiceIsLife on Sunday August 12, 2018 @09:23PM
(#17747444)
Exhaust valves are open during the exhaust stroke anyway. Inlet valves are open during the intake stroke anyway.
The strongest plausible interpretation of what¹ they're saying is to open valves that are partway through the compression stroke, and open / close any other valves as necessary at the best possible time to promote rapid starting.
Re:Fully digital valves open up engine possibilities
by jondumbau on Sunday August 12, 2018 @11:55PM
(#17747921)
that really makes the most sense. at that point i imagine it would be a more finely controlled compression release. i shouldn't read too much into the wording of what is essentially a marketing statement i suppose :)