Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 10, 2025

A Rapid Method for Modeling a Variable Cycle Engine
Published on: August 13, 2019
Modeling the Influence of Engine Dynamics on Its Indicator Diagram
Piotr Deuszkiewicz1, Jacek Dziurdź1, Paweł Fabiś2
1Institute of Machine Design Fundamentals, Warsaw University of Technology, 02-524 Warszawa, Poland.
This study models engine combustion pressure using Fourier series for accurate crankshaft torsional vibration analysis during acceleration. The model accounts for varying speeds and unique work cycles, improving simulation accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Vibration Analysis
Background:
- Accurate modeling of engine combustion pressure is crucial for analyzing crankshaft torsional vibrations.
- Existing models may not adequately capture dynamic changes during acceleration.
- Understanding pressure variations is key to designing effective vibration dampers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a model describing combustion chamber pressure changes relative to crankshaft angle during acceleration.
- To enable precise calculation of variable piston forces for torsional vibration simulations.
- To enhance the simulation of crankshaft behavior with vibration dampers under dynamic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a Fourier series to represent continuous pressure changes within a single work cycle.
- Determining Fourier series coefficients via Fourier transform of averaged, discrete indicator diagrams.
- Recording pressure waveforms and shaft angle signals on a chassis dynamometer.
- Analyzing the impact of the number of series coefficients on signal energy representation.
- Incorporating work cycle uniqueness through random coefficient variations based on standard deviations.
- Modeling engine rotational speed changes for PID controller simulation.
Main Results:
- A novel model for describing engine combustion pressure as a function of crankshaft angle during acceleration.
- The model successfully integrates variable rotational speeds and unique work cycle characteristics.
- Analysis confirmed the influence of the number of Fourier series coefficients on signal energy.
- The model's accuracy in determining instantaneous rotational speed was assessed.
Conclusions:
- The proposed Fourier series model provides a robust method for simulating engine combustion pressure dynamics.
- This approach enhances the accuracy of torsional vibration analysis in crankshafts, particularly during acceleration.
- The model's ability to account for cycle-to-cycle variations improves simulation fidelity.
- Further research can explore limitations related to digital signal recording parameters.
Related Concept Videos
Design Example: Automobile Ignition System
One can generate a large voltage using a car battery of 12 volts with the help of inductors. Inductors are known for opposing...
Internal Combustion Engine
Relation between Mathematical Equations and Block Diagrams
Typical Model Studies
Multi-input and Multi-variable systems
In the absence...
Time-Domain Interpretation of PD Control
Consider the example of control of motor torque. Initially, a positive...

