A Knowledge-Based Model for Multi-Valve Diesel Engine Inlet Port Design

In an investigation to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between port geometry and performance characteristics, a parametric inlet port design tool has been developed using statistical design-of-experiments (DoE) techniques. A strong emphasis has been placed on achieving realistic, production-feasible port geometry that may be used directly during concept design projects. A modular approach has been developed using flexible, interchangeable, generic inlet port models. Constraints are used to represent additional features in the cylinder head and external packaging requirements. A thorough assessment of performance was made possible by using rapid-prototype models and reliable experimental methods. The in-cylinder flows were successfully validated by comparing predicted results with new test data. By analysing the DoE data and generating polynomial models, a knowledge-based system was developed and used to predict optimum design configurations for a range of common diesel engine applications.

An overview of the tasks undertaken in developing and testing the knowledge-based parametric model is presented, including a discussion of key results and conclusions. A case study is also presented to demonstrate the use of the system in the development and critical assessment of realistic concept design solutions.