Water In Charge Patents (Class 123/25A)
  • Patent number: 6145498
    Abstract: An aftercooler apparatus that is connected to a turbocharger and to a reciprocating engine has a primary and a secondary saturation chamber, and a drying chamber. Turbocharged air from the turbocharger is directed into the primary saturation chamber. The incoming air is initially mixed with and cooled by water located at the bottom of the primary saturation chamber before being directed through a diffusion screen. The air exiting the diffusion screen enters the secondary saturation chamber where intense bubbling and foaming increases the air-water contact area to further cool the air and form an air-water mixture approaching the temperature and moisture level of saturation. The air-water mixture is then directed into the drying chamber where a majority of the moisture is removed from the air through the use of centrifugal force. The now cooler moist air is directed toward the engine intake manifold, whereby the moisture in the air stream acts to reduce the NOx formation during the combustion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Industrial Power Generating Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Packard, Peter Moliterno
  • Patent number: 6138647
    Abstract: An aftercooler apparatus that is connected to a turbocharger and to a reciprocating engine has a primary and a secondary saturation chamber, and a drying chamber. Turbocharged air from the turbocharger is directed into the primary saturation chamber. The incoming air is initially mixed with and cooled by water located at the bottom of the primary saturation chamber before being directed through a diffusion screen. The air exiting the diffusion screen enters the secondary saturation chamber where intense bubbling and foaming increases the air-water contact area to further cool the air and form an air-water mixture approaching the temperature and moisture level of saturation. The air-water mixture is then directed into the drying chamber where a majority of the moisture is removed from the air through the use of centrifugal force. The now cooler moist air is directed toward the engine intake manifold, whereby the moisture in the air stream acts to reduce the NOx formation during the combustion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Industrial Power Generating Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Packard, Peter Moliterno
  • Patent number: 6035834
    Abstract: An aftercooler apparatus that is connected to a turbocharger and to a reciprocating engine has a primary and a secondary saturation chamber, and a drying chamber. Turbocharged air from the turbocharger is directed into the primary saturation chamber. The incoming air is initially mixed with and cooled by water located at the bottom of the primary saturation chamber before being directed through a diffusion screen. The air exiting the diffusion screen enters the secondary saturation chamber where intense bubbling and foaming increases the air-water contact area to further cool the air and form an air-water mixture approaching the temperature and moisture level of saturation. The air-water mixture is then directed into the drying chamber where a majority of the moisture is removed from the air through the use of centrifugal force. The now cooler moist air is directed toward the engine intake manifold, whereby the moisture in the air stream acts to reduce the NOx formation during the combustion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Industrial Power Generating Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Packard, Peter Moliterno
  • Patent number: 6016832
    Abstract: A fuel admission valve for metering gas without using a mass flow sensor. The valve uses a flow control element and nozzle, an actuator, a fuel supply pressure sensor, a fuel supply temperature sensor, a flow control element position sensor, and a flow control circuit to meter gas in sonic flow with insensitivity to the discharge pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Woodward Governor Company
    Inventors: Curtis C. Vars, Jason E. Yost, Joel L. McLane, Donald R. Samuelson, Gary F. Branch
  • Patent number: 6003500
    Abstract: An aftercooler apparatus that is connected to a turbocharger and to a reciprocating engine has a primary and a secondary saturation chamber, and a drying chamber. Turbocharged air from the turbocharger is directed into the primary saturation chamber. The incoming air is initially mixed with and cooled by water located at the bottom of the primary saturation chamber before being directed through a diffusion screen. The air exiting the diffusion screen enters the secondary saturation chamber where intense bubbling and foaming increases the air-water contact area to further cool the air and form an air-water mixture approaching the temperature and moisture level of saturation. The air-water mixture is then directed into the drying chamber where a majority of the moisture is removed from the air through the use of centrifugal force. The now cooler moist air is directed toward the engine intake manifold, whereby the moisture in the air stream acts to reduce the NOx formation during the combustion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Industrial Power Generating Corporation
    Inventors: Charles J. Packard, Peter Moliterno
  • Patent number: 5992397
    Abstract: A gas apparatus for internal combustion engine is disclosed in which recovered hydrocarbon gas vapors from the fuel tank and the hydrocarbon with radical hydrocarbon gas vapors from the crankcase, are mixed together with air and alcohol with water solution in an impeller mixing chamber causing modified hydrocarbon gas vapors and oxygen gas vapors to pass through an electronic ionizer producing negatively charged pre-oxidized hydrocarbon gas vapors, then fed through the air induction system to improve mass of air to mass of fuel ratio in an internal combustion engine. A method for production of negatively charged pre-oxidized hydrocarbon gas vapors is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventors: Watase Hideaki, Dalupan Romulo Vallejos, Tan Slew Lay
  • Patent number: 5993495
    Abstract: A combustible fuel for diesel engines and a process for forming same in the form of a water in hydrocarbon emulsion wherein the mean water drop diameter is .ltoreq.4 .mu.m with a maximum diameter of .ltoreq.10 .mu.m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Intevep, S. A.
    Inventors: Gerardo A. Sanchez, Luis R. Marcano, Gustavo A. Nunez, Raul Saud
  • Patent number: 5823149
    Abstract: NOx emissions from gasoline engines are reduced by mixing water in the gasoline to reduce combustion temperatures. The water is dispersed in the gasoline as the gasoline is delivered to the cylinders. When the engine is not operating, the water separates from the gasoline and causes rusting. In accordance with this invention, the mixing of water into the gasoline is terminated before the engine is shut off so as to purge the system of the water/gasoline dispersion so that there no longer is water in the fuel supply system by the time the engine is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Turbodyne Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Anatoly D. Mezheritsky, Edward M. Halimi
  • Patent number: 5806471
    Abstract: A multi-step engine air intake volume control device having a first electromagnetic valve connected between an air input port and a manifold pipe in a positive crankcase ventilating system of a motor vehicle and controlled by a control circuit to let fresh air be drawn into the engine of the motor vehicle subject to the revolving speed of the engine, wherein a container is mounted inside the motor vehicle, having a water chamber holding a volume of water and an oil chamber holding an oil; a second electromagnetic valve is provided having an input end connected to the water chamber and oil chamber of the container by a guide tube and three-way pipe connector assembly and an output end connected to the manifold pipe, the second electromagnetic valve being controlled by the control circuit to open the passage between the container and the manifold pipe for permitting water and oil mixture to be drawn from the container into the manifold pipe when air is guided by the manifold pipe into the engine of the motor ve
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Jung-Chih Lin
  • Patent number: 5725609
    Abstract: A combustible fuel for diesel engines and a process for forming same in the form of a water in hydrocarbon emulsion wherein the mean water drop diameter is .ltoreq.4 .mu.m with a maximum diameter of .ltoreq.10 .mu.m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: Intevep, S.A.
    Inventors: Hercilio Rivas, Gustavo A. Nunez, Tulio Colmenares, Manuel Chirinos
  • Patent number: 5697331
    Abstract: An "environment-protecting and combustion-supporting device", is mounted on the front end of the intake manifold of a car engine for providing air with a high content of oxygen, hydrogen molecules and high humidity. The device improves combustion efficiency of the engine and lowers intake temperature to reduce damage to the engine. Toxic substances such as carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogenated carbon (HC) are reduced to improve air quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Inventor: Pao Yuan Hsu
  • Patent number: 5694908
    Abstract: An improved auxiliary water-supply device for use with an internal combustion engine system is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventor: Chih-Cheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 5671701
    Abstract: A cold-steam atomizer designed to use ultrasonics to produce mist to be mixed with a combustible fluid. The device is designed to transfer that mist/combustible fluid mixture into a combustion system in order to enhance internal and external combustion. The mist generator utilizes an immersed vibrating element to atomize a liquid such as water to create the mist. The atomizer is housed in a chamber having a baffle that is designed to prevent large droplets of the liquid from entering the combustion chamber. The system alternatively includes a tank for storing the liquid prior to atomization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Thomas F. O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 5592903
    Abstract: A system including a water container, a compressor, a pressure line connected from the compressor to the water container to bubble air through water in the container, a suction line taking air back to the compressor for recirculation, and a connection to the air intake of a combustion device for injecting some of the recirculating air into the intake air stream of the combustion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Ionic Fuel Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred A. Wentworth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5560344
    Abstract: A fuel storage and delivery apparatus for providing one or more non-miscible fuels to a multi-fuel engine has a fuel reservoir adapted for storing first and second non-miscible fuels in communication with each other. The first and second fuels define a phase interface therebetween. The fuel reservoir has a bottom, and first and second outlets adapted to respectfully receive first and second fuels. The first and second outlets are positioned adjacent the bottom and the phase interface. The fuel delivery apparatus has means for respectfully maintaining the first and second outlets adjacent the bottom and the phase interface. The fuel delivery apparatus also has means for sensing the fluid levels of the first and second non-miscible fuels in the reservoir, and producing fluid level signals in response to the sensed fluid levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony K. Chan
  • Patent number: 5558513
    Abstract: A system including a water container, a compressor, a pressure line connected from the compressor to the water container to bubble air through water in the container, a suction line taking air back to the compressor for recirculation, and a connection to the air intake of a combustion device for injecting some of the recirculating air into the intake air stream of the combustion device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1976
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Ionic Fuel Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred A. Wentworth, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5331924
    Abstract: A new emission control system is described herein that injects liquid catalytic compounds into fossil fueled combustion devices for the purposes of reducing unhealthful emissions. The invention of the micrometering valve and injection nozzle assembly allows for the accurate, adjustable and controllable injection of minute quantities of liquid catalytic compounds. This injection means and method eliminates the chemical phase change as an integral part of the metering process. Liquid phase injection increases the selection of deliverable catalytic compounds, simplifies control and delivery equipment requirements and increases the potential range and functions of the invention. Liquid phase injection also offers the ability to utilize the combustion air stream, liquid or gaseous fuel stream or an alternate path delivering matter to the combustion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventor: Gregory A. Kraus
  • Patent number: 5271370
    Abstract: Diesel fuel is stored in a first fuel tank, while water is stored in a second fuel tank. To use an emulsion fuel, diesel fuel and water are mixed and are caused to enter an injection pipe through a junction located between an injection pump and an injection nozzle. The emulsion fuel is injected through the injection nozzle. The engine is also equipped with exhaust gas recirculation devices to return a portion of the exhaust gas of the engine to an intake pipe of the engine so that some of the exhaust gas is recirculated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Mitsubishi Jidosha Engineering Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Taizo Shimada, Kiyoharu Yamada, Yutaka Zaha
  • Patent number: 5213067
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine is provided having opposed pistons operating in axially spaced relation within common power cylinders. Opposed heads of the pistons define a space within which occurs a cycle of compression, ignition, combustion, and expansion. One piston controls exhaust ports, and the other piston controls air injection and fuel-air charge injection ports. Additional air injection ports, and associated supply passages or tubes, are provided to admit compressed air over the head of the exhaust piston to cool the exhaust piston head and also form a gas flow inhibiting region below the exhaust port, near the end of the power/exhaust stroke. Rotary valves control the in-flow of air and air-fuel charge to charging cylinders. Air injection ports have an optional improved construction to enhance air injection into the power cylinders. Throttle valves controlling flow of air into purge air charging cylinders are provided as an option.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Inventor: Louis E. Kramer
  • Patent number: 5199386
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for injecting atomized fluids into the intake manifold of an internal combustion engine comprising: a fluid reservoir to hold a supply of fluid, means to transport the fluid to a T junction mixer having i) a pre-mixing chamber, ii) a flow adjustable fluid intake port to receive the fluid and deliver it to the pre-mixing chamber, and iii) a simultaneously restricted air and water flow intakes to deliver a predetermined approximately constant ratio air to water flows into the pre-mixing chamber for atomization of the fluids, and collector means to collect and transport the atomized fluid mixture into the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Inventor: Von J. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 5189990
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine in which a supply of treated water charged air is provided to the internal combustion engine. The atomic structure of the water is partially dissassembled due to exposure to oxygen attractive metal and also by the addition of a limited amount of chlorine to the liquid water. Water vapor is provided to the air stream through the use of an evaporative pad; this pad has an adjustable exposed surface area, thereby permitting the fine-tuning adjustment of the amount of humidity generated so as to maximize the efficiency of the engine. The presence of the oxygen attractive metal, such as zinc, when combined with the slightly acidic water vapor tends to dislodge oxygen from the hydrogen; this free oxygen and hydrogen recombine in the engine's cylinder to provide added energy release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Robert Powell
  • Patent number: 5148776
    Abstract: A fuel and water injection system for an internal combustion engine in which a computer calculates the minimum fuel requirements to meet power demand and the water injection requirements to achieve smooth operation without engine knock or pre-ignition; and triggers electronic injectors mounted in the intake manifold or adjacent to the cylinders to achieve those requirements. Fuel and water injectors are connected to constant-pressure fluid supply systems such that the rate of delivery of liquid to the inlet manifold or cylinder is based on the pulse width and pulse repetition rate of the signals sent from the computer. The fuel/air ratio ranges from the minimum requirement to support the combustion process to the maximum which can be burned cleanly and efficiently. Fuel injection rates within these limits are based on the operator's demand for power as represented by his positioning of the throttle plate using the accelerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventor: Michael J. Connor
  • Patent number: 5121713
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for use in association with an internal combustion engine to generate heated moist air which is directed into the intake manifold or carburetor of the engine. The apparatus employs a water-holding vessel equipped with coils for the circulation of hot lubricant and coolant fluids from the engine. Air is sucked into the vessel by virtue of the vacuum of the intake manifold. The air is then broken into a bubbled stream by passage through an apertured horizontally disposed sparger tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventor: Elmo M. Peterson
  • Patent number: 5115780
    Abstract: Device for limiting the exhaust gas temperature in an internal combustion engine consisting of a thermoelement (2) protruding into the engine exhaust manifold (1) and an electronic control unit (3) connected thereto, which is disposed to send an output signal dependent on the exhaust gas temperature sensed by the thermoelement to the fuel injection system (4) of the engine. When the output signal indicates that the temperature exceeds a maximum-permissible level, an excess of fuel is injected for cooling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Nira Automotive AB
    Inventors: Nils Jonsson, Mats Dahlgren
  • Patent number: 5100642
    Abstract: A fuel composed of water, a compound in which free radicals have been generated and a solute that stabilizes the free radicals while the fuel is in the liquid state but which releases the free radicals when the fuel is sprayed (vaporized) so that the free radicals then dissociate the water to form hydrogen gas in sufficient concentration to support combustion. The most readily available compounds in which free radicals can be generated to provide the fuel are hydrocarbons and carbohydrates. Free radicals may be generated in solids (e.g., sugar) by charring and grinding the sugar then mixing with acid. Free radicals may be generated in liquids by adding an acid. Polar liquids such as alcohols, aldehydes and ketones have been found to be the most effective stabilizers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Inventor: Orestes M. Baycura
  • Patent number: 5084216
    Abstract: An apparatus provides improvement over the apparatus that provides a highly humid air into a boiler or internal combustion engine such as diesel, gasoline, and other similar engines, and improves the fuel economy and reduces the amount of the produced exhaust gases from the boiler, etc. by adding the highly humid air into the suction pipe through which it is delivered into the combustion chamber together with the mixture of the injected fuel gas and air. The highly humid air provided by the improved apparatus contains a mixture of vaporized water flow drawn by suction under the reduced pressure developed within the combustion chamber and an air flow drawn from the atmosphere, the mixture being formed by allowing the two flows to meet together and strike against each other at angles of 55 to 65 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Assignee: Nihon Vaporizer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Ogura, Yoshihiro Ogura
  • Patent number: 5065704
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine in which a supply of adjustable water charged air is provided to the internal combustion engine. Water vapor is provided to the air stream through the use of an evaporative pad; this pad has an adjustable exposed surface area, thereby permitting the fine-tuning adjustment of the amount of humidity generated so as to maximize the efficiency of the engine. Additionally, a barometric valve adjusts the humid air stream and a heat-responsive valve provides additional air input depending on the altitude and ambient air temperature respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Inventor: Robert C. Powell
  • Patent number: 4969446
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes: a combustion chamber with a suction opening; an inlet valve for closing the suction opening; a fluid supply line with an open end; and a gaseous medium supply line with an open end. The open end of the fluid supply line is in close proximity to the suction opening. The gaseous medium supply line surrounds a portion of the fluid supply line in the vicinity of the open end of the fluid supply line. The open end of the gaseous medium supply line is in close proximity to the open end of the fluid supply line. And the open end of the gaseous medium supply line is directed toward the suction opening of the combustion chamber. In operation, fluid is supplied through the fluid supply line in such small quantities that the fluid is in an almost pressure-free condition at the open end of the fluid supply line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 13, 1990
    Inventors: John Olsson, Bertil Olsson, Gunnar Olssen
  • Patent number: 4918916
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of transferring water from gases generated by combustion to air of combustion when burning hydrogen-containing or moist fuels, in which the combustion gases are cooled to temperatures beneath or in the proximity of their dew point temperature. Subsequent to this initial cooling, the gases are further cooled by means of a regenerative exchange of heat with the incoming air of combustion, such that water vapor is condensed on the combustion gas side and revaporized on the air of combustion side, both heat and water vapor being transferred from the combustion gases to the air of combustion. In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the invention, the method is effected in a combustion engine, such as a diesel engine or Otto-cycle engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1990
    Inventor: Lars Tiberg
  • Patent number: 4884533
    Abstract: A method of and an arrangement for burning a liquid or gaseous fuel in a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. A method of and an arrangement for burning a liquid or gaseous fuel in the presence of air or another oxidant and by the use of water in a combustion chamber (12) of an internal combustion engine, especially a reciprocating or rotary piston-type engine. To reduce the fuel consumption and the emission of harmful substances and to increase the efficiency when low-octane fuels, especially regular gasoline or acetylene, are used, water is injected during one or several selected phases, in particular during the entire operation, in an operation-dependent quantity direct into the combustion chamber (12) in such a way that a progressive "primary combustion" of fuel/air just below the critical "knock" temperature (T.sub.c) occurs which initiates a "secondary combustion" of the admixed water at any point of combustion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1989
    Inventors: Antonio Risitano, Lanzafame Rosario, Eugen Popp
  • Patent number: 4883023
    Abstract: In a vehicle having a turbocharger (12) for supplying pressurized air to a combustion chamber in an engine (10) and a storage reservoir (34) for supplying pressurized air as a power source for a brake system (35), a polymeric fiber membrane (46) for separating pressurized air from a compressor (18) into moist oxygen enriched air and dry nitrogen enriched air. The moist oxygen enriched air is added to inlet air of the turbocharger (12) to enhance combustion of fuel in the combustion chamber while the dry nitrogen enriched air is communicated to the storage reservoir (34) to operate the brake system (35) and reduce the possibility of oxidization of components therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1989
    Assignee: Allied-Signal Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Tsang, Seong Rhee, Michael Jacko, James Kubik
  • Patent number: 4841919
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device connected into an internal combustion engine fuel feed circuit and comprising a filter unit and emulsifier for the engine fuel feed, there being provided two or more fuel intakes located in different positions within said filter unit and a flow disintegrating emulsifier member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: Ital Idee s.r.l. an Italian Limited Liability Company
    Inventor: Angelo Cantoni
  • Patent number: 4831971
    Abstract: A mehtod for mixing water and diesel fuel in a ratio between 5 and 20 Vol %, in which the liquid components are recirculated in a recirculation loop comprising an ellipsoidal vortex chamber (10) in which rotation around a longitudinal axis (9) is attained, the rotating fluid is expanded and tangentially injected in a baloon-like second vortex chamber (16) with an axis (17) normal to that of the first chamber, the open lower end of the second rotational chamber (16) is connected to fluid inlets and suction side of a recirculating pump. The outlet occurs from the equatorial plane of the second vortex chamber. The outflow rate should be at least ten times less than the flow in the recirculation loop. The mixture which have water droplets smaller than 200 nm has a consistency similar to that of fuel and can be used as fuel to diesel engines, whereby the amount of unwanted components in the exhaust gases will be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Harrier Inc.
    Inventors: Walter H. Ott, Roland Steinmeier, Werner Zurcher
  • Patent number: 4831970
    Abstract: Device for the injection in internal combustion engines of combustible emulsions with a readily variable ratio, constituted by a hydrocarbon phase and a component poorly miscible with it, which comprises a positive-displacement pump driven by a portion of the delivery of the injection pump fed with the hydrocarbon phase, said positive-displacement pump carrying out the pumping of the other component of the emulsion; the two components of the emulsion are combined in the injector, which incorporates a static emulsifying device upstream the same injector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Agip Pitroli, S.p.A.
    Inventor: Carmelo Caputo
  • Patent number: 4800848
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for injecting atomized fluids into the intake manifold of an internal combustion engine comprising: a fluid reservoir to hold a supply of fluid, means to transport the fluid to a mixer having (i) a mixing junction, (ii) a flow adjustable fluid intake port to receive the fluid and deliver it to the mixing junction, and (iii) a restricted fixed air flow intake port to deliver a predetermined approximately constant air flow into the mixing junction for atomization of the fluids, and collector means and transport the atomized fluid mixture into the intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1989
    Inventor: Von J. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 4757787
    Abstract: A method of and an arrangement for burning a liquid or gaseous fuel in the presence of air or another oxidizer and by use of water in a combustion chamber (12) of an internal combustion engine, especially a reciprocating or rotary piston engine. During one or more selected phases, especially during the entire operation, prior to being introduced into the combustion chamber (12), the fuel is mixed intensively with air and a quantity of water which depends on the operation in order to reduce the fuel consumption and the emission of noxious components as well as to increase the efficiency when using low octane fuels, especially regular gasoline or acetylene as the fuel. The mixing takes place in a quasi-closed mixing chamber (22) in the intake passage (11). Upon compression and ignition of the fuel/air/water mixture in the combustion chamber (12) a progressing "primary combustion" of fuel/air is controlled just below the critical "detonation" temperature (T.sub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1988
    Inventors: Antonino Risitano, Lanzafame Rosario
  • Patent number: 4725226
    Abstract: A device is disclosed which is especially adapted for use in activating the combustion process in combustion systems equipped with a combustion chamber supplied with solid, liquid or gaseous fuel. The device employs a container which is partially filled with water and which is supplied with compressed air such that the compressed air flows through the water before being delivered to the combustion chamber, whereby the air is made moist. On its way to the combustion chamber, the moist air flows through a chamber containing a buffer liquid. A conduit extends between the chamber containing the buffer liquid and another chamber, the conduit having a transmission cross section selected such that a shock-absorbing function is performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1988
    Assignee: Benno Balsiger
    Inventors: Benno Balsiger, Primo D. Richina
  • Patent number: 4714066
    Abstract: An injector system for injecting fuel and/or water into the combustion chamber of an engine cylinder having a high pressure pump with a primary piston for pumping fluid to an injector nozzle and plurality of integral control cylinders having means for discretely controlling the displacement of pistons in the control cylinders for altering the effective volume of fluid pumped by the primary cylinder, the fluid pumped hydraulically displacing an injector piston in the injector nozzle for displacing a nozzle discharge stem allowing a divergent spray of fuel and or water to enter the combustion chamber, wherein the high pressure pump includes an associated regulating mechanism for displacing at least one control cylinder piston according to an input derived from the operator's power demand and the engine r.p.m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1987
    Inventor: Robert D. Jordan
  • Patent number: 4671215
    Abstract: A liquid injection system using a novel venturi injector and a novel liquid level control chamber for use in an internal combustion engine. The injection system uses water and/or a water/alcohol mix in the preferred embodiment which is pumped from a remote liquid level tank to a liquid level control chamber. A venturi injector is positioned within the internal combustion air cleaner housing to inject predetermined amounts of liquid into the carburetor of the internal combustion engine. The rushing air within the air cleaner passing through the venturi injector causes water to be pulled into the venturi and into the throat of the carburetor from the liquid level control chamber. Control means is provided in the system to control the pump to supply more liquid to the liquid level control chamber from the remote liquid tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Inventor: Kenneth F. Waechter
  • Patent number: 4637351
    Abstract: An automotive type diesel engine provided with a conventional fuel filter water separator has a solenoid operated drain or dump valve for removing liquid contaminant/water automatically when the contaminant or water reaches a predetermined level actuating a sensor. The removed contaminant or water is then inducted into the engine by means of a venturi/aspirator which in one embodiment has an outlet connected directly to the engine intake manifold to provide the necessary pressure drop or, in another turbocharged diesel engine embodiment, the boost pressure is connected to the inlet of the venturi/aspirator to again induct the liquid contaminant/water into and through the aspirator to be disposed of in the exhaust system of the engine, both embodiments thereby automatically providing for a complete disposal of liquid contaminant/water within the engine and thereby eliminating the need of a periodic draining of the same from the fuel filter by the vehicle operator, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1987
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Benjamin J. Pakula
  • Patent number: 4632067
    Abstract: A vapor generating and injection device for internal combustion engines; a vapor generating and injection system and device for vehicle engine systems having a turbo air compressor on the air intake line running from the air cleaner to the engine intake manifold; a vapor injection and generation system and device for internal combustion engines where there is available a supplemental pressurized air source such as a vehicle air brake system, a pollution control air pump, an exhaust manifold pressure tap, an air horn supply system, an add-on compressor or the like; vapor generating and injection devices for humidifying (by vapor only) the air supply for combustion to the cylinders of internal combustion engines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Inventor: Drexel T. Carlson
  • Patent number: 4563982
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for introduction of a fluid or liquid medium into working or operating chamber of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. For the purpose and object of reduction of nitric oxide emission as well as for an improvement of the efficiency there is proposed with a method and apparatus for introduction of the fluid or liquid medium into the working or operating chamber of an internal combustion engine operated with gaseous fuels to admix the fluid continuously or intermittently as to the gaseous fuel and subsequently to blow-in the fuel or power gas/fluid or liquid mixture into the working or operating chamber of the internal combustion engine under the pressure of the fuel or power gas. Hereby there can be utilized or employed advantageously besides the water also alcohol and alcohol/water mixtures, which means media with bound OH-groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1986
    Assignee: Forschungsgesellschaft fur Energietechnik und Verbrennungsmotoren mbH
    Inventors: Franz Pischinger, Robert Sollner
  • Patent number: 4558665
    Abstract: The invention relates to a turbo charged combustion engine with water injection. The characterizing feature of the engine is that there is provided one water injector for each cylinder, each respective injector facing the inlet port for injecting at least the main portion of the water jet straight into the inlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1985
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventors: Lars Sandberg, Bjorn Scheuer
  • Patent number: 4557222
    Abstract: This invention is an arrangement of mechanical components that humidify the intake air (specifically, the air that mixes with fuel for combustion) of an internal combustion engine, to increase combustion efficiency and reduce poison gas emissions. The components of this invention consist of a heat collector, air pump, humidifier and ducting tubes that connect the components forming a pressurized circuit of heated, humid air. Part of the embodiment of this invention is in the designed capacities of the components related to the engine to be served. Reasons and guidelines for this are given in the Summary of the Invention. A pressurized circuit to feed the combustion mixture of an engine is the crux of this system's function. It is the means to increase the mixture's density, in all the ranges of power demand by at least the volume of humidity that is introduced into the air stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1985
    Inventor: Herbert A. Nelson
  • Patent number: 4528948
    Abstract: A performance improving means for an internal combustion engine having an intake manifold, a carburetor and a vacuum intake between the manifold and carburetor, including an upright vessel having an air inlet and an outlet opening in the upper portion, a tube connecting the vessel outlet to the engine vacuum intake, a vertical tube within the vessel communicating at the upper end with the vessel inlet opening and the lower end terminating adjacent the vessel bottom, a valve connected to the vessel inlet so that the rate of flow of air into the tube in the vessel may be adjusted, and a water emissible liquid within the vessel, air being drawn into the vessel through the valve and tube and out through the bottom of the tube bubbling upward within the liquid forming a vapor which is drawn into the engine intake manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1985
    Assignee: Atlas Investment Co.
    Inventor: Mike J. Ashmore
  • Patent number: 4479907
    Abstract: The method and apparatus make use of the suction source which, for example, is developed in the automobile engine, and produce a vapor-and-air mixture that contains large amounts of high humidity, which is to be added to the air-and-fuel mixture, thereby enhancing the mixture ratio to a higher value than the theoretical air-and-fuel mixture. Thus, the complete combustion can be achieved, thereby improving the fuel economy and the air pollution problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1984
    Inventor: Takashi Ogura
  • Patent number: 4476819
    Abstract: A fuel economy device comprising a body formed to define a chamber having an externally screw threaded neck portion and communicating with the chamber an internally screw threaded aperture for receiving a spark plug and an inlet pipe including a non-return valve provided to facilitate the injection of water into the chamber and to resist the flow of gas from the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1984
    Inventor: David T. Szloboda
  • Patent number: 4461245
    Abstract: A novel pump suitable for use in a water injection system of an internal combustion engine is described. The pump controls the rate of flow of water injected into the engine. The pump includes a variable pressure inducing means for pressurizing the water contained in the pump. The variable pressure inducing means is responsive to negative back pressure developed in the intake manifold of the engine and varies the pressure of the water in accordance with changes in the negative back pressure of the manifold. As the negative back pressure decreases, the pressure of the water increases which in turn increases the flow rate of fluid from the pump into the engine. There is also disclosed a pressure sensitive nozzle for controlling the flow of fluid exiting from the nozzle as a function of fluid pressure. The nozzle includes an auxiliary fluid flow path through the nozzle that has an inlet opening of variable size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1984
    Inventor: Michael Vinokur
  • Patent number: 4459943
    Abstract: A fluid injection system for an internal combustion engine, including both spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines, includes a nozzle for injecting a finely divided spray of fluid, such as water, a water solution, or other combustion enhancing fluid, into the intake air of the engine in response to a flow of atomizing air. The nozzle is connected to a fluid supply and to the outlet an air injection pump that is connected to an electric drive motor. The drive motor is controlled by an electronic control circuit to provide the atomizing air to the nozzle in response to the fuel flow to the engine and in response to one or more engine parameters including parameters provided by a temperature sensor, a throttle position sensor, and/or a detonation sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: Goodman System Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Toronta P. Goodman
  • Patent number: 4448170
    Abstract: A system for injecting controlled amounts of water into the fuel intake to the cylinders in proportional response to the pressure in the engine's exhaust manifold. First conduit means, preferably including an extended surface heat sink and a length of flexible, plastic tubing, communicate the exhaust manifold pressure to the upper surface of a supply of water in an enclosed container. A lower part of the container is connected by second conduit means to a point in the fuel intake system, preferably in the air inlet to the carburetor. An adjustable throttling valve is interposed in the second conduit means for selective control of the relation of water flow to exhaust manifold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Inventor: Arthur C. O'Hara