Abstract: A liquid-phase growth apparatus for growing a crystal on a substrate includes a crucible containing a solution that contains a raw material for forming the crystal, and a substrate holder for vertically holding the substrate. The substrate holder includes connectors, a receiving component, and a push component. The receiving component and the push component are opposite to each other and are connected by the connectors. The push component holds an upper portion of the substrate while the receiving component holds a lower portion of the substrate. The substrate holder containing the vertically held substrate is dipped into the solution. The receiving component ascends with buoyancy in the solution contained in the crucible, so that the substrate is now held securely and prevented from cracking due to thermal expansion.

Abstract: A method of forming at least one single crystal of a Group III metal nitride. The method includes the steps of: providing a flux material and a source material comprising at least one Group III metal selected from the group consisting of aluminum, indium, and gallium, to a reaction vessel; sealing the reaction vessel; heating the reaction vessel to a predetermined temperature and applying a predetermined pressure to the vessel. The pressure is sufficient to suppress decomposition of the Group III metal nitride at the temperature. Group III metal nitrides, as well as electronic devices having a Group III metal nitride substrate formed by the method are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention includes chemical vapor deposition methods, including atomic layer deposition, and valve assemblies for use with a reactive precursor in semiconductor processing. In one implementation, a chemical vapor deposition method includes positioning a semiconductor substrate within a chemical vapor deposition chamber. A first deposition precursor is fed to a remote plasma generation chamber positioned upstream of the deposition chamber, and a plasma is generated therefrom within the remote chamber and effective to form a first active deposition precursor species. The first species is flowed to the deposition chamber. During the flowing, flow of at least some of the first species is diverted from entering the deposition chamber while feeding and maintaining plasma generation of the first deposition precursor within the remote chamber. At some point, diverting is ceased while feeding and maintaining plasma generation of the first deposition precursor within the remote chamber.

Abstract: To provide a semiconductor substrate of a group III nitride with a little warp, this invention provides a process comprising such steps of:

Abstract: A method for making a free-standing, single crystal, aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) wafer includes forming a single crystal AlGaN layer directly on a single crystal LiAlO2 substrate using an aluminum halide reactant gas, a gallium halide reactant gas, and removing the single crystal LiAlO2 substrate from the single crystal AlGaN layer to make the free-standing, single crystal AlGaN wafer. Forming the single crystal AlGaN layer may comprise depositing AlGaN by vapor phase epitaxy (VPE) using aluminum and gallium halide reactant gases and a nitrogen-containing reactant gas. The growth of the AlGaN layer using VPE provides commercially acceptable rapid growth rates. In addition, the AlGaN layer can be devoid of carbon throughout. Because the AlGaN layer produced is high quality single crystal, it may have a defect density of less than about 107 cm−2.

Abstract: A process for producing a single crystal silicon wafer, comprising the steps of forming a porous layer on a single crystal silicon substrate comprising a silicon whose concentration of mass number 28 silicon isotope is less than 92.5% on an average; dissolving a starting silicon whose concentration of mass number 28 silicone isotope whose mass number is more than 98% on an average in a melt for liquid-phase epitaxy until said starting silicon becomes to be a supersaturated state in said melt under reductive atmosphere maintained at high temperature: immersing said single crystal silicon substrate in said melt to grow a single crystal silicon layer on the surface of said porous layer of said single crystal silicon substrate; and peeling said single crystal silicon layer from a portion of said porous layer.

Abstract: A method for producing a nitride semiconductor crystal comprising a step (a) for forming fine crystal particles made of a nitride semiconductor on a substrate; a step (b) for forming a nitride semiconductor island structure having a plurality of facets inclined relative to a surface of the substrate with the fine crystal particles as nuclei; and a step (c) for causing the nitride semiconductor island structure to grow in a direction parallel with a surface of the substrate to merge a plurality of the nitride semiconductor island structures with each other, thereby forming a nitride semiconductor crystal layer having a flat surface; the steps (a)-(c) being continuously conducted in the same growing apparatus.

Abstract: A surface modified quartz glass crucible and a process for modifying the crucible includes a layer of a metal oxide on the whole or a part of the inside and/or outside of the crucible, and baking it. At least an inside surface of the crucible is coated with a said metal oxide of magnesium, calcium, strontium or barium. The coated layer of the crucible does not abrade easily and provides a high dislocation free ratio of silicon single crystals pulled by using the crucible.

Abstract: A polycrystalline silicon rod according to present invention has a structure for hanging of polycrystalline silicon rods to each other end-to-end, so that the efficiency of melting polycrystalline silicon can be increased considerably. A polycrystalline silicon rod obtained by entirely or partially removing a peripheral portion from the rod to leave a central portion, and processing the central portion, preferably, the peripheral portion is removed by grinding in an amount corresponding to 10 to 60% of the diameter of the rod, and then subjected to groove-forming processing. This makes annealing unnecessary.

Abstract: In a high rate pulling with a cooler 10 surrounding a single crystal 8, steam explosion by leakage from the cooler 10 is prevented. Flow rates La, Lb of cooling water are measured by flowmeters 14a, 14b on a cooling water inflow side and cooling water outflow side of the cooler 10. When flow rate difference &Dgr;L (La−Lb) determined from the flow rates La, Lb exceeds 20 cc/minute, open/close valves 15a, 15b, 15c are operated to stop water supply to the cooler 10 and drain outward the cooing water in the cooler 10.

Abstract: A pizza-topping apparatus for dispensing automatically various toppings for pizzas at a pizzeria. The pizza-topping apparatus includes a conveyor assembly including a housing having side, back, and bottom walls and also having an open top, and also including a conveyor belt movable through and along the open top of said housing; and also includes a storage assembly including a cabinet being mounted in the housing; and further includes a condiment dispensing assembly being securely mounted above the conveyor belt and including a plurality of dispenser members; and also includes an assembly for cleaning the dispenser members.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for manufacturing a stacked type electronic part which can manufacture a stacked type electronic part dried at low temperature for a product by increasing a manufacturing speed. A base plate is placed in a predetermined linear section path to be moved back and forth and be moved vertically. Above the section path are juxtaposed one or more insulator layer forming means discharging an insulating resin paste, conductor layer forming means jetting a conductor paste by an ink jet system and drying means drying the pastes. A thin film layer having a predetermined conductor pattern placed on an insulator layer while the base plate is moved back and forth one or more times. Those steps are repeated to form a stacked type electronic part.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for coating a continuously advancing article. The apparatus includes a housing defining a spray chamber having an inlet end and an outlet end. Walls in the spray chamber form an inlet buffer zone adjacent the inlet end, an outlet buffer zone adjacent the outlet end and a spraying zone between the inlet and outlet buffer zones. A conveyor transports articles to be coated through the spray chamber. A plurality of spray guns are mounted on the housing to substantially surround an article on the conveyor transported through the spraying zone. The spray guns are adapted for spraying an ultraviolet curable coating composition. The spray guns are mounted substantially entirely outside the spraying zone, with only nozzle portions of the spray guns located inside the spraying zone.

Abstract: A slit nozzle includes a solution feeding mechanism having an elastic element and a plurality of piezoelectric devices and embedded in a side surface of a flow passage near a slit in the slit nozzle. Control is effected so that the piezoelectric devices are vibrated to cause the elastic element to produce traveling waves toward the slit. A resist solution serving as a processing solution is pumped by the traveling waves, thereby to be discharged through the slit toward a substrate. This provides a substrate processing apparatus capable of smoothly discharging the processing solution to accomplish high discharge accuracy.

Abstract: A light source comprising a plurality of flash lamps emits flashes thereby flash-heating a semiconductor wafer held by a thermal diffuser and a hot plate. The current distance of irradiation between the thermal diffuser and the hot plate holding the semiconductor wafer and the light source is so adjusted as to attain predetermined intensity of irradiation. The distance of irradiation between the thermal diffuser and the hot plate and the light source can be changed or corrected by vertically moving the thermal diffuser and the hot plate. Thus provided is a thermal processing apparatus using the flash lamps, capable of readily controlling the intensity of irradiation.

Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus is of an internal electrode type, and an inductive coupling type electrode arranged facing a substrate 17 has a shape formed by bending back a conductor at its central portion. A high frequency power is supplied to an end of the electrode so that a standing wave of half wavelength are produced at straight portions formed by bending back the electrode to make an antinode there, and thus a plasma discharge is generated around the electrode. The controlled standing waves with its antinodes positively generated at the straight portions of the electrode are effectively used. The frequency f of the high frequency power is determined by f=(c/{square root}{square root over ( )}&egr;p)/2L1 , where c is the speed of light, L1 is the length of the portion formed by bending back the electrode, and &egr;p is the relative dielectric constant of plasma produced around the electrode.

Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus includes a generator for producing a first microwave. The apparatus includes a slot antenna for receiving the first microwave to radiate a second microwave in a shape. The apparatus includes a dielectric window for receiving the second microwave to produce surface-wave plasma. The apparatus includes a conveyor for an object to pass in proximity to the dielectric window. The apparatus includes a transmitting path for transmitting the first microwave in a direction. The apparatus includes a coaxial converter provided to a front end of the transmitting path. The coaxial converter includes an internal conductor for converting the first microwave from the direction into an orthogonal direction relative to the transmission path. The apparatus includes a discharging chamber provided to the dielectric window.

Abstract: A new method and apparatus for avoiding contamination of films deposited in layered depositions, such as Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) and other sequential chemical vapor deposition (CVD) processes, is taught, wherein CVD-deposited contamination of ALD films is prevented by use of a pre-reaction chamber that effectively causes otherwise-contaminating gaseous constituents to deposit on wall elements of gas-delivery apparatus prior to entering the ALD chamber.

Abstract: A vaporiser generating feed gas for the arc chamber of an ion source has a crucible which is heated to a temperature at which material in the crucible sublimes to produce a vapour for use as the feed gas. In addition to the heating element for heating the crucible, there is a cooling element in the form of a cooling duct extending along the length of the crucible for receiving the cooling fluid. Forced cooling of the crucible when the heating element is switched off enables the crucible to be cooled more quickly so that the supply of a feed gas can be terminated sooner. This is important if an ion source is being switched from one feed gas to another. Also, the crucible may be forced cooled simultaneously while energising the heating element to enable the crucible to be accurately controlled at a lower operating temperature if desired.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary parlour for milking of animals. The parlour comprises a rotary platform (3) arranged to constitute a support surface for the animals, stalling means arranged to divide the platform (3) into stalls for receiving individual animals (1), driving means arranged to rotate the platform (3) and milking means (11) arranged to be attached to the animals (1). The platform (3) comprises a number of platform modules (8) each having a front edge (9) connected to a rear edge (10) of another platform module (8) at a determined angle of at least two possible angles in relation to each other in such a manner that the platform (3) obtains an annular extension having a size related to said determined angle.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method for milking animals, in which the milk is removed is conveyed though a filter element. Any material which is deposited on the filter element is detected and, if appropriate, identified. After detection is complete, the direction of flow through the filter element is reversed, so that filter material is rinsed clean. The invention also comprises a contamination meter for user in die device and method mentioned above.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved cattle management method utilizing a franchised cattle management system licensed to contract cattle producers. The contract grower contract producers manage cattle according to given production guidelines from the franchiser that increases the carcass value at sale. The cattle producer retains a profit from the increased market value of the cattle produced according to the franchisor's cattle production method. The franchiser receives a royalty from the contract cattle producer with little or no capital expenses or costs associated with the maintenance and production of the cattle herd operated by the contract cattle producer.

Abstract: A retractable pet leash is disclosed that can alternatively be held in a user's hand or secured to a belt worn around the user's waist. The leash is retractable inside an enclosure having a concave surface designed to conform generally to the shape of a user's hip or waist. The retractor retracts a first length of leash that has a first connector coupled to its distal end. The first connector can be coupled to a second connector that is coupled to a handle portion of a second length of leash. The connectors allow the user to disconnect the second length of leash from the retractor.

Abstract: The trouble occurring followed by air supply shortage due to the clogging of the flame arrester is prevented.

Abstract: The operation of marine diesel engines is improved through use of a defined fuel composition, containing one or more additives comprising a methal detergent, a non-metal detergent or both. The fuel is supplied to Diesel engines which operate in a maximum speed range of 1000 rpm (4-stroke engine) respectively 2500 rpm (2-stroke engine). The power output is greater than 200 bph. The cylinder bore is greater than 100 mm (2-stroke engine) while the piston stroke shall be greater than 150 mm (4-stroke engine) respectively greater than 120 mm (2-stroke engine). The metal containing detergent is a neutral calcium sulfonate, salicylate or calcium phenate. The non-metal containing detergent is a hydrocarbyl succinimide.

Abstract: A gaseous fuel generator comprises a controller is for supplying and adjusting power. A gas generating assembly is driven by the power supplied by the controller to electrolyze water into mixed gas of hydrogen and oxygen. A tube has an end communicating with the gas generating assembly for transporting the gaseous fuel. An adjusting valve is disposed on the tube for controlling the flow of the mixed gas in the tube. A pressure sensor is disposed on the tube for detecting the pressure of the mixed gas in the tube and sending signals of detecting to the controller to make the gas generating assembly adjusting the rate of electrolyzing, and a burner communicates with the tube to receive the mixed gas and burn the mixed gas.

Abstract: A power generator unit incorporates a generator driven by an engine. The engine has a fuel tank. A fuel petcock is connected through fuel hoses between the fuel tank and the engine. An insulating cover surrounds the generator, the engine and the fuel tank. A control panel is positioned on the insulating cover. A fuel control lever is pivotally mounted on the control panel. The fuel control lever is connected to the fuel petcock through a flexible transmitter to open and close the fuel petcock.

Abstract: A portable power generator unit incorporates an engine and a generator driven by the engine. The generator incorporates a multi piece sound insulation cover that allows for efficient cooling of the various internal components. Various access openings located in the multi piece sound insulation cover allow for easy servicing of the power generator. An access-opening lid acts as a tool to help service the internal combustion engine when draining and adding lubricant.

Abstract: In a diesel pile hammer, the circumferential surfaces of a piston and striker extend axially to such an extent that, when the piston and striker bear on one another, they are separated only by a very small distance. In their near-edge sections, the piston end face and striker end face are each provided with an annular trough having a semicircular cross section. In this way, when the piston has traveled fully against the striker, a basic working space is obtained, having the form of an annular space with a circular cross-section, in which combustion commences.

Abstract: A valve timing control system for an internal combustion engine is provided which is capable of ensuring reliable holding of a valve by an actuator, and attaining energy saving by efficient operation of the actuator. The valve timing control system controls valve-closing timing of a valve opened by a cam provided on a camshaft, by temporarily holding the valve. A response delay of the actuator is predicted as a response delay prediction value. Output timing is set in which a drive signal for driving the actuator is output, according to the predicted response delay prediction value. Holding timing is controlled in which the valve is held by the actuator, by outputting the drive signal to the actuator, based on the set output timing.

Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method of preheating a vehicle engine during non-use of the vehicle. The method includes receiving a programming input defining a minimum engine coolant temperature of a preheating strategy, initializing the preheating strategy based on the programming input, and sensing an energy source of the vehicle to run the preheating strategy. The method further comprises sensing an engine coolant temperature of the vehicle at a first time period, activating the preheating strategy to heat the engine if the engine coolant temperature is lower than the minimum engine temperature. The method further includes receiving feedback indicating the engine coolant temperature at a subsequent time period and deactivating the preheating strategy if the engine coolant temperature is greater than the maximum temperature at the subsequent time period.

Abstract: A control (30) embodies an operating strategy (50) to facilitate engine cranking and starting via control of timing of cylinder intake (18) and exhaust (24) valve opening using a variable valve actuation mechanism (26). Prior to fueling any cylinder (16), the engine (10) is cranked while the variable valve actuation mechanism causes pistons (32) to operate at an initial effective compression ratio for initial cranking that is less than an effective compression ratio for running when the engine is eventually fueled and runs under its own power. Thereafter, and still before fueling, they are caused to operate at an increased effective compression ratio, and still thereafter, a portion of their charges are drawn from the exhaust system (22). As the engine warms up, valve timing is adjusted.

Abstract: An elastic connecting piece (1) is mounted between a carburetor (4) and an inlet channel (3) of an internal combustion engine (2). The engine (2) is especially an engine of a portable handheld motor-driven work apparatus such as a motor-driven chain saw, cutoff machine or the like. The connecting piece (1) includes a peripherally extending expansion fold (5) arranged between its ends in order to compensate for changes in length. The expansion fold (5) subdivides the connecting piece (1) into a carburetor-end section (6) and into an engine-end section (7). The annular gap (28) of the expansion fold (5) can be bridged by a seal lip (8). The connecting piece (1) includes a peripherally extending seal seat (9) of axial length (g) in the region of the expansion fold (5). The seal lip (8) can be placed in seal-tight contact with the seal seat (9) and substantially closes the expansion fold (5) fluid tight to the interior space of the connecting piece (1).

Abstract: An internal combustion engine for a manually guided implement is provided and has a cylinder, a reciprocating piston that is longitudinally displaceable in the cylinder, a rotatable crankshaft and a connecting rod for connecting the piston and the crankshaft. By means of a clutch, a tool that is to be driven can be connected to the internal combustion engine. To improve engine operation and at the same time keep a low overall weight, a rotary oscillation eliminator is provided on the engine side of the clutch and in the direction of flow of power from the internal combustion engine to the tool.

Abstract: A device and a method for real time optimizing engine lubricating oil properties in response to actual engine operating conditions. the present invention is a method that comprises measuring, directly or indirectly, a system parameter of interest near a location of interest, calculating from said parameter(s) or input(s) the amount of a secondary fluid selected from performance enhancer(s), additional base lubricant, alternatively formulated lubricant or diluent that need be added to the base lubricant; and supplementing said base lubricant with said secondary fluid before introducing the combination into said monitored location.

Abstract: A drysump lubrication type engine is integrally connected at a crankcase thereof with an oil tank. A magnet coil coaxially mounted on an extension line of a crankshaft is covered by the oil tank and accommodated between the oil tank and the engine.

Abstract: A device for and method of decarboning a combustion chamber and compression rings in an internal combustion engine. The device is a squid shaped container with a cylindrical body, a screw cap, and conduits depending from the body for transmitting cleaner to the combustion chambers on the engine. Once cleaner is transmitted to the combustion chambers, the engine is bumped to work the fluid into the compression rings. When the engine is bumped, the device allows the cleaner to be vented to the device to avoid hydrolocking the engine. The device also contains the cleaner so that it is not splashed outside the engine.

Abstract: A system for controlling charging of a battery of a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. The system includes an input that receives an engine shutdown signal indicative that the engine will be shut down during an idle period to thereby conserve fuel. An engine shutdown delay delays shutdown of the engine for a shutdown delay period in response to the engine shutdown signal. Charge boost circuitry increases a charge signal applied to the battery of the vehicle during the engine shutdown delay period.

Abstract: The invention relates to an internal combustion engine comprising a compression chamber (3) that is delimited by fixed housing walls (1, 2) and a movable piston (5) mounted therein, and a porous component (4) that fills the combustion chamber (6), which is separate from the compression chamber (3). The combustion of fuel and air takes place exclusively within the porous component (4). The compression chamber (3) is connected to the combustion chamber (6) only via an overflow cross-section (8) designed to allow the transfer of combustion gases created during combustion from the combustion chamber (6) into the compression chamber (3).

Abstract: A method and an arrangement for controlling a drive unit are suggested wherein a maximum permissible value of an output quantity is determined. This maximum permissible value is compared to the actual value and, when the permissible value is exceeded by the actual value, reaction measures are initiated. The maximum permissible value is filtered at least in one operating state in accordance with filter means including a filter and a dead zone member. Furthermore, the maximum permissible value is continuously reduced in dependence upon the approaching of at least one quantity to a limit value. This quantity represents an operating state.

Abstract: A fail-safe device includes an intake air amount sensor, a throttle position sensor for detecting a throttle opening degree of an electronic throttle controller, an accelerator position sensor for detecting an accelerator opening degree as an amount of pressing down on an accelerator, an intake air amount control unit for controlling the intake air amount to the engine, a target air-fuel ratio control unit for controlling a fuel injection amount to be supplied to the engine, a target ignition timing control unit for controlling ignition timing of air-fuel mixture inside a cylinder of the engine; and an electronic throttle control system abnormality warning unit for deciding, when a first requirement and a second requirement are satisfied based on the output of each sensor, that the electronic throttle controller is in failure, and for, prior to warning of the abnormality of the electronic throttle controller, controlling each of the control units.

Abstract: Based on an ionic current intensity determined by ionic current intensity learning means for determining the ionic current intensity based on an output from an ionic current detection circuit, at least one of a comparison reference value of a comparison reference value setting means and a control parameter correction amount of control parameter correction request amount setting means is corrected, so that, even in a case where fuel is mixed with additives, and a case where a non-standard spark plug is mounted, the ionic current amount fluctuation is accurately determined even if the amplitude of a knock signal varies due to ionic current intensity fluctuation, and correction of the comparison reference value corresponding to the ionic current intensity, or correction of the control parameter, is performed, to thereby prevent erroneous control based on erroneous knock detection, and securely achieve an excellent knock detection status and knock control status.

Abstract: Method for injecting fuel into the combustion chamber of a direct-injection internal-combustion engine, said chamber being delimited by the wall of a cylinder (10), a cylinder head (12) and a piston (22) comprising a bowl (26) inside which a teat (28) is arranged.

Abstract: A pressure control valve assembly for controlling fluid pressure to an actuator, the pressure control valve assembly being in fluid communication with an actuating fluid pump and being disposed intermediate the actuator and the pump, includes an energy storage component, the energy storage component acting on a certain volume of actuating fluid under pressure, the stored energy being selectively releasable to the actuator for augmenting the actuating fluid pressure in the actuator. A method of control is further included.

Abstract: A fuel injection system (1) for internal combustion engines has at least one stroke-controlled injector (10). A pressure booster (9) that has a movable piston (26) is connected between the at least one injector (10) and a high-pressure working medium source (5). The movable piston (26) divides a primary chamber (13), which can be connected to the high-pressure working medium source (5), from a pressure chamber (8) that communicates with the at least one injector (10) and is filled with fuel. The pressure booster (9) generates a first fuel system pressure in the injector (10), which is used for the injection. The fuel injection system (1) has means for furnishing a further, second fuel system pressure, and these means can be used for injection without activating the pressure booster (10).

Abstract: A fuel delivery system and method are described that can provide different pressures of the supply of fuel to a power source such as an engine or a motor. The engine or the motor can power, for example, a vehicle or a generator. The fuel delivery system includes a fuel supply line to deliver fuel from a fuel tank to the engine or motor. A fuel pump outlet line delivers fuel from the tank to the fuel supply line. An in-tank return line returns fuel from a fuel return line to the tank. A regulator connects with the fuel pump outlet line to maintain a pressure of the fuel pump outlet line at or below a pressure set-point of the regulator. A solenoid valve connects with the in-tank return line such that a set-point pressure of the regulator is utilized when the solenoid valve closes the in-tank return line.

Abstract: A mounting arrangement includes a fuel injector, a fuel injector cup, and a fastener. The fuel injector includes a body that defines an interior fuel passage that extends between an inlet and an outlet. The body of the fuel injector also includes first and second exterior grooves. The first exterior groove receives a compliant seal, and the second exterior groove is located between the first groove and the outlet. The fuel injector cup includes an end that defines an aperture through which passes along an axis the inlet of the fuel injector. The fuel injector cup also includes inner and outer surfaces. The inner surface contiguously engages the compliant seal, and the outer surface includes a shoulder that faces generally opposite the end of the fuel injector cup. The fastener includes first and second portions.

Abstract: A fuel injector (1) for the direct injection of fuel, especially into the combustion chamber of a mixture-compressing internal combustion engine having external ignition, comprising a valve housing formed by a nozzle body (2), and a first sealing ring (34) which seals the fuel injector (1) against a cylinder head (36) of the internal combustion engine. The first sealing ring (34) tapers conically at a radially outer side (45) in a flow direction of the fuel and cooperates with a second sealing ring (35), which tapers conically at a radially inner side (46) counter to the flow direction of the fuel.

Abstract: A control system and a control method for an internal combustion engine have a cylinder including an intake valve and an exhaust valve with a fully variable valve-gear assembly. An engine control unit determines setpoint values with regard to a fresh gas charge, an internal residual gas charge, a torque reduction, an EGR control strategy, and a charging strategy. In addition, a transmission device is provided which transmits setpoint values determined by the engine control unit to a valve control unit in synchronization with the crankshaft angle. The valve control unit controls the fully variable valve-gear assembly of the intake and exhaust valve of the cylinder of the internal combustion engine on the basis of the setpoint values determined by the engine control unit.

Abstract: Proposed is a method for adjusting an adaptive characteristics map of an adaptive engine-knock control system and a method for adaptively controlling engine knock, the adaptive characteristics map (20) being defined by at least one operating parameter (22, 24), the adaptive characteristics map (20) for each operating-parameter range (26) being made up of a precontrol component (bi) that characterizes the ambient conditions, and a residual component (ai) that results from the engine-knock control, the value of the adaptive characteristics map for each operating-parameter range being given by the sum of the precontrol component (bi) corresponding to the specific operating-parameter range, and the residual component (ai) corresponding to the specific operating-parameter range.