Visit the PI (Physik Instrumente) web site

Novel actuator to to boost engine efficiency

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Oct 21, 2004

Camcon Technology has signed a licence agreement with Powertrain for inclusion of its technology in a joint programme known as "Intelligent Valve Actuation" (IVA).

Camcon Technology has signed a licence agreement with Powertrain for inclusion of its technology in a joint programme known as "Intelligent Valve Actuation" (IVA).

The licence will enable Powertrain, the Birmingham based engine and transmission manufacturer, to develop a camless preproduction engine prototype, based on Camcon's digital actuator, and follows an 18 month research and development programme undertaken by Camcon and Powertrain, at Camcon laboratories in Harston, near Cambridge.

The introduction of Camcon's digital actuator technology will allow each valve of the engine to be independently controlled; will support a number of lift positions; will allow for energy recovery to support low power consumption and provide low seating velocities to ensure durability and low noise.

Intelligent Valve Actuation (IVA), as the product has been designated, will significantly improve the engine combustion efficiency, enhancing engine performance and fuel economy, while enabling reduced emissions from the engine.

Powertrain designs, manufactures and markets engine and transmission units for the automotive market.

Its engines feature in a wide range of cars, 4x4s, sports cars and even hovercraft.

Powertrain will develop advanced combustion systems using Camcon technology for petrol and diesel engines.

Precise control over combustion has become a key consideration in design and development of next generation engines.

In conventional valvetrains the mechanical relationship between valve and camshaft limits the flexibility of the control of combustion events.

IVA, developed specifically with Powertrain, provides a compact, low cost, low power consumption mechanism providing full control over valve actuation.

As such it offers significant opportunities for developing advanced combustion systems with improved engine performance, economy and emissions.

"We are very pleased to enter a partnership with Powertrain".

"As a prototype development company we offer expertise and technology to our partners for subsequent manufacture, support and market distribution".

"Camcon technology will help Powertrain to change the way car engines are manufactured today", said Ian Anderson, Chief Operating Officer, Camcon Technology.

"IVA is a valve technology that has the potential to make camless engines a viable product".

"We believe that a partnership with Camcon Technology will enable our customers to reap early benefits of this innovative technology", said Alan Warburton, Powertrain Engineering Director.

The high-speed, low energy consumption and long life characteristics of the Camcon binary technology is set to have a considerable impact in a number of industries.

In addition to the specific application being developed in conjunction with Powertrain, the technology is appropriate in other areas including gas and liquid flow control, remote location and subsea oil services, automotive engine control and noise pollution reduction in the aviation industry.

Camcon's binary actuator fundamentally differs from the traditional valve designs.

Using high power permanent magnets and a spring-loaded armature the configuration requires a very short electrical pulse to disrupt the magnetic field, causing the armature to switch from one stable position to another, thereby opening or closing the valve.

No electric current needed to maintain the on or off position, creating a unique opportunity to drive even multiple valve systems from a local battery allowing precise and programmable delivery of any gas or fluid.