Abstract: An engine controller unit for phase-adjustable ignition timing of a wood-fuel-powered engine was designed, implemented, and tested. This controller was designed to increase the fuel efficiency of the engine by allowing for more precise control of the fuel-combustion cycle. The engine controller met all the specifications outlined in the project contract. Ignition timing phase was controlled with precision of 1° with maximum 50° advance from center. The engine was operated with aforementioned precision up to 75 Hz timing signal frequency and with output period within 1° of timing signal period. Furthermore, a thermocouple amplifier was designed to measure the temperature of the engine exhaust. The temperature circuit was able to measure temperatures in the range of 600°F to 1900°F within 25°F precision. An LCD operated by the controller was configured to display the operating phase and speed of the engine in real time, along with the exhaust temperature.
We were supported in this project by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Maine, as well as by the guidance and facilities of Stephen Abbadessa (Mechanical Engineering).
I am happy to answer any questions relating to this work, and may be reached at gwc20@cam.ac.uk.
We were supported in this project by the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Maine, as well as by the guidance and facilities of Stephen Abbadessa (Mechanical Engineering).
I am happy to answer any questions relating to this work, and may be reached at gwc20@cam.ac.uk.