Split-cycle engine: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 15:25, 24 January 2011

Revision as of 17:52, 3 March 2011

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== Design ==

In a conventional [[ottoOtto cycle]] engine, each [[cylinder (engine)|cylinder]] performs four strokes per cycle: intake, compression, power, and exhaust. This means that two revolutions of the [[crankshaft]] are required for each power stroke. The split-cycle engine divides these four strokes between two paired cylinders: one for intake/compression, and another for power/exhaust. Compressed air is transferred from the compression cylinder to the power cylinder through a crossover passage. Fuel is then injected and fired to produce the power stroke.

Note: not to be confused with the Split Cycle engine invented by Rick Mayne that used a multitude of small cylinders arranged in a radial arrangement with pistons operated by a [[Geneva drive|geneva mechanism]]. This engine was never successfully run in a meaningful demonstration, but significant capital was raised through a share plan.