Title: Multiple pulse laser ignition in GDI lean combustion

Authors: Hua Cheng; Zheng Kuang; Vincent Page; Elliott Lyon; Geoff Dearden; Tom Shenton

Addresses: Powertrain Control Group, Centre for Engineering Dynamics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GH, UK ' Laser Group, Centre for Material and Structures, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GQ, UK ' Powertrain Control Group, Centre for Engineering Dynamics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GH, UK ' Laser Group, Centre for Material and Structures, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GQ, UK ' Laser Group, Centre for Material and Structures, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GQ, UK ' Powertrain Control Group, Centre for Engineering Dynamics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GH, UK

Abstract: Laser Ignition (LI) is a new, innovative technology which overcomes several limitations of conventional spark ignition; it presents many potential advantages for engine dynamic control, especially for gasoline direct injection engine. This paper highlights a new approach, using principle component analysis of the pressure curve, to dynamically control multiple pulse laser ignition (MPLI). In the results, experimental data presents how the control of MPLI improves the performance of the engine and demonstrates the effectiveness of MPLI in lean combustion. This work is part of an Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council funded research project which is to investigate how optimised control strategies, including multiple stratified fuel injection (MSFI); MPLI and multiple location laser ignition (MLLI), can help to improve the stability of leaner operation and reduce the emissions. The possible future of LI dynamical control strategies is discussed.

Keywords: multiple pulse laser ignition; lean combustion; multi-pulse laser-induced spark; beam splitter; principle component analysis; PCA; dynamic control strategy; powertrains; gasoline direct injection; GDI engines; pressure curve; engine performance; vehicle emissions; emissions reduction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPT.2016.075184

International Journal of Powertrains, 2016 Vol.5 No.1, pp.55 - 68

Received: 08 Nov 2014
Accepted: 14 May 2015
Published online: 06 Mar 2016 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article