A Rapid Wave Action Simulation Technique for Intake Manifold Design

The volumetric efficiency of reciprocating internal combustion engines is a strong function of intake manifold configuration. A computationally efficient simulation technique is described which is based on the linearised one-dimensional conservation equations for distributed parameter systems and is amenable to the requirements of the designer in directly assessing the comparative merits of a large number of manifold configurations. Comparisons of measured and predicted volumetric efficiency curves are presented together with predicted results which illustrate the benefits to be obtained from variable geometry induction systems. The technique was found to be over 220 times faster than a comprehensive simulation program based on the method of characteristics.