Zero-dimensional turbulence modeling of a spark ignition engine in a Miller cycle « Dethrottling » approach using a variable valve timing system

Marcellin Perceau (1, 2) , Philippe Guibert (1) , Stéphane Guilain (2)

1 RENAULT
2 DALEMBERT - Institut Jean Le Rond d'Alembert

The Miller cycle, using an early inlet valve closing, can significantly improve the overall efficiency of a spark ignition engine during partial load operations. The shorter valve intake event minimizes the need for throttling the air and so reduces the pumping losses. This method is known as “dethrottling”. Indeed, the use of a variable valve lift system makes it possible to combine two different cam profiles in an engine, one for the full load operations and one for the partial loads. The benefits of this strategy, combined with a variable valve timing (VVT) system, will be explored using a new 0D model. This model can take into account the strong changes of in-cylinder turbulence generated by the VVT and their effects on the combustion. Efforts have been made to reduce the model's reliance on external inputs. Therefore, analytical calculations of quantities, such as the flame radius, have been favored. The Miller cycle can lead to indicated efficiencies around 44% and the addition of a VVT system can improve the overall efficiency up to 1% over a wide range of engine loads.

Mots clés: Miller Cycle; Dethrottling; VVT; 0D model; Turbulence; Flame radius

Domaines: Sciences de l'ingénieur [physics]

Marcellin Perceau, Philippe Guibert, Stéphane Guilain. Zero-dimensional turbulence modeling of a spark ignition engine in a Miller cycle « Dethrottling » approach using a variable valve timing system. Applied Thermal Engineering, 2021, 199, pp.117535. ⟨10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2021.117535⟩. ⟨hal-03405668⟩