An Electrical Distribution System for In-Crankcase Applications 2010-01-0038
As the influence of electronic controls on powertrain systems continues to grow, there are increasing requirements for providing electrical connections to the transducers which are located within the crankcase and transmission.
Where it is not possible to provide such interfaces conventionally, through connections directly to the external environment, it is necessary to implement an internal electrical distribution system (EDS). Although these are used extensively in transmissions, their application within crankcases has, to date, been less common.
The development of an EDS for operation within the crankcase of a high-performance petrol engine is described, from the driving forces, through to the application, design concept and product realisation.
Specific challenges associated with the development of a new connector system are explained in detail, together with the subsequent design solutions.
