Patent ID: 6037730
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: F02D

Abstract:
A method of ensuring continued airflow to an engine controlled by an electronic throttle system during a time of electrical power loss to the throttle system, the method comprising:(a) positioning a throttle plate within an air/fuel intake manifold of the engine so that the throttle plate is movable between an open position allowing airflow through the manifold and a closed position substantially blocking airflow through the manifold;(b) applying a first electromagnetic reluctance torque to the throttle plate to urge the throttle plate toward the open position, said electromagnetic reluctance torque being produced by electromagnetic properties of an associated torque motor; and(c) applying a second torque to the throttle plate to urge the throttle plate toward the closed position, wherein the first electromagnetic reluctance torque and the second torque counteract each other so that the throttle plate remains at a position between the open and closed positions to allow airflow through the manifold.