Cylinder Deflection Analysis: An Evaluation Technique Which Can Lead to Improved Reliability and Efficiency in Small Light Weight I. C. Engines

Light weight quiet small internal combustion engines that meet cost and required reliability parameters are important in the consumer product market as well as in the industrial environment. In the design of these lightweight powerplants, accurate analysis of factors which influence immediate and long-term effects is essential. Hologram interferometry is used to provide a full field view of engine cylinder wall deformations which may lead to noise, fatigue and related inefficiencies. The technique allows for the evaluation of cylinder deformation caused by thermal and mechanical loads. Static loads are applied to predict the deformation of the engine at specific points in the operating cycle.