Gas Engine Design: 2 Crankshafts, 2 Pistons, 1 Cylinder Head

AI Thread Summary
The discussion explores the concept of designing an internal combustion engine in an "A" shape instead of the traditional "V" shape, featuring two crankshafts and two pistons per cylinder head. Participants note that similar designs, like VW's VR-6 engine, already exist, suggesting that the proposed A design may not enhance explosion efficiency as intended. Concerns are raised about the practicality of such a design for personal transportation, with recommendations to analyze timing diagrams and pressure buildup in the cylinders. Overall, while the idea has some merit, it faces significant engineering challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough investigation before pursuing this unconventional engine design.
guitarrc6
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hey everyone i was wondering why people don't make an internal combustion engine in the shape of an A instead of a V. this way it would have two crankshafts, and two pistons and one cyliner head for every two pistons. I think this would make the explosion my effecitive than just one piston moving up and down. what do you guys think? would this work or not?

thanks, brian
 
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Originally posted by guitarrc6
hey everyone i was wondering why people don't make an internal combustion engine in the shape of an A instead of a V. this way it would have two crankshafts, and two pistons and one cyliner head for every two pistons. I think this would make the explosion my effecitive than just one piston moving up and down. what do you guys think? would this work or not?

thanks, brian

Look at VW's VR-6 engine. Its similar to what your proposing and already in production. Would the explosion be more effective? Not with an A design. The are vertically opposed twin crank engines but these are typically used in industrial applications.

If you want to work on it do some timeing diagrams and see how everything works.

Investigate how pressure would build up in the cylinders... There are a lot of things you can playwith but in the end you'll probably find the design impracticle for personal transportation.

http://www.njnm.com/subtour/engine2.htm
 
thanks

thanks i'll check that vw out
 
Well, someone else thinks this is a good idea as well:

http://cycleworld.com/index.cfm?siteaction=OnlineUpdate&id=11
http://sixstroke.com/pageone.htm

Cliff
 
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