Performance estimation of an engine with magnetorheological variable valve train

Researchers are continuously developing various energy-saving technologies to enhance the internal combustion engine efficiency. Among them, continuous variable valve timing and variable valve lift system is one potential technology. To achieve this ability, a new type of electric valve, known as magnetorheological valve train, was introduced, which is based on the magnetorheological fluid’s active behavior. In this study, gasoline engine models are established for dynamic simulations of an engine with the magnetorheological valve train. Volumetric efficiency and performance of the engine with different magnetorheological valve train valve lifts and valve timings at engine speeds between 2000 and 6000 r/min are also analyzed. Simulation results show that, at low engine speeds, the lift of the valve has little effect on the engine performance. However, under high and medium engine speeds, the lift of the valve significantly affects the performance; the smaller the valve lift, the smaller the volumetric efficiency. Likewise, an adjustment of valve opening angle timing to reduce the valve overlap angle effectively increased the engine volumetric efficiency at low engine speeds.