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Downsizing the engine would be an effective means of improving fuel economy and reducing CO2 emissions. In this case, low-speed torque generation can be enhanced through the use of impulse charging technology, a subject attracting the attention of many researchers. This paper reports the basic characteristics of impulse charging identified through research using a single-cylinder test engine, aiming for application of the technology to spark ignition (SI) engines. To ensure the maximum level of volumetric efficiency under impulse charging conditions, two requirements are controlling the timing of switching from a negative to a positive pressure wave while turning its direction at the intake chamber, and maximizing the positive pressure wave.

In the cities of the U.S. the worsening ozone problem has attracted attention and prompted reinforcement of regulations against emissions of hydrocarbons (HC) from automobiles. To cope with this situation, a reduction of HC is a vital challenge for the automotive industry. HC emission comes mainly from a cold engine, which usually uses a richer air-fuel mixture to achieve stable combustion and secure good driveability. The purpose of this paper is to show that using a engine with variable valv1e timing and lift system (VTEC) (1)∼(2) it is possible to reduce considerably HC emission in cold-start conditions. In other words, it is able to employ a leaner mixture than in existing engines (A/F=15.5) by using the VTEC system to alter the valve timing and lift according to various driving conditions, thereby considerably reducing HC emissions due to the improvement and stabilization of engine combustion.