Electronic Valve Actuation in Combustion Engine

This thesis provides a method for electronically actuating the valves used in an internal combustion engine. This method for valve actuation looks at utilising the expected change to a 42V standard in motor vehicles. It also provides a simplified model elaborating how this principle works.

The advantage of electronic valve actuation is that it provides an easy method of infinitely varying the valve timing in internal combustion engines. The relationship between the desired open and shut intervals of the intake and exhaust valves vary with respect to engine speed. The current methods of valve actuation involve using an outdated mechanical method that ensures that the timing cannot readily be changed to suit the vehicle’s needs.

With more efficient timing intervals utilised, electronic valve actuation will lead to reduced fuel consumption and improved power in motor vehicles.
Author: Andrew John Gray
Source: The University of Queensland