bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing the Countrywide Mortality Surveillance in Action in Mozambique: How Much Did It Cost?
Authors: Jiwani Safia S. , Mavie Victor Américo , Williams Emma , Kante Almamy Malick , Amouzou Agbessi
Published: April 2023

Complete sample registration systems are almost inexistent in sub-Saharan Africa. The Countrywide Mortality Surveillance in Action (COMSA) project in Mozambique, a national mortality and cause of death surveillance system, was launched in January 2017, began data collection in March 2018, and covers over 800,000 population. The objectives of this analysis are to quantify the costs of establishing and maintaining the project between 2017 and 2020 and to assess the cost per output of the surveillance system using data from financial reports produced by the National Institute of Health in Mozambique. The program cost analysis consists of start-up (fixed) costs and average annual operating costs covering the period of maximum implementation in 700 clusters. The cost per output analysis quantifies the annual operating cost of surveillance outputs during the same period. Approximately two million dollars were spent on setting up the system, with infrastructure, technological investments, and training making up over 80% of these start-up costs. The average annual operating costs of maintaining COMSA was $984,771 per year, of which 66% were spent on wages and data collection incentives. The cost per output analysis indicates costs of $37–$42 per vital event captured in the surveillance system (deaths, pregnancies, pregnancy outcomes), $303–$340 per verbal and social autopsy conducted on a reported death, and a per capita cost of $1–$1.3. In conclusion, establishing COMSA required large costs associated with infrastructure and technological investments. However, the system offers long-term benefits for real-time data generation and informing government decision-making for health.
Development of a Scorecard to Monitor Progress toward National Cholera Elimination: Its Application in Uganda
Authors: Bwire Godfrey , Sack David A. , Lunkuse Stella M. , Ongole Francis , Ngwa Moise Chi , Namanya Didacus B. , Nsungwa Jesca , Aceng Ocero Jane Ruth , Mwebesa Henry G. , Muruta Allan , Nakinsige Anne , Kisakye Annet , Kalyebi Peter , Kemirembe Julian , Makumbi Issa , Kagirita Atek , Ampeire Immaculate , Mutegeki David , Matseketse David , Debes Amanda Kay , Orach Christopher Garimoi
Published: April 2023

In 2017, the Global Task Force for Cholera Control (GTFCC) set a goal to eliminate cholera from ≥ 20 countries and to reduce cholera deaths by 90% by 2030. Many countries have included oral cholera vaccine (OCV) in their cholera control plans. We felt that a simple, user-friendly monitoring tool would be useful to guide national progress toward cholera elimination. We reviewed cholera surveillance data of Uganda from 2015 to 2021 by date and district. We defined a district as having eliminated cholera if cholera was not reported in that district for at least 4 years. We prepared maps to show districts with cholera, districts that had eliminated it, and districts that had eliminated it but then “relapsed.” These maps were compared with districts where OCV was used and the hotspot map recommended by the GTFCC. Between 2018 and 2021, OCV was administered in 16 districts previously identified as hotspots. In 2018, cholera was reported during at least one of the four previous years from 36 of the 146 districts of Uganda. This number decreased to 18 districts by 2021. Cholera was deemed “eliminated” from four of these 18 districts but then “relapsed.” The cholera elimination scorecard effectively demonstrated national progress toward cholera elimination and identified districts where additional resources are needed to achieve elimination by 2030. Identification of the districts that have eliminated cholera and those that have relapsed will assist the national programs to focus on addressing the factors that result in elimination or relapse of cholera.
Examination of the Validity of Connections between MSILs and ASILs in the Functional Safety Standard for Motor Vehicles
Authors: Takahashi Sei , Nakamura Hideo , Hasegawa Makoto
Published: April 2023

ISO 26262, a functional safety standard for motor vehicles, was published in November 2011. Although motorcycles are not included in the scope of application of the current edition of ISO 26262, it is expected that motorcycles will be included in the next revision. However, it is not appropriate to directly apply automotive safety integrity levels (ASILs) to motorcycles because the situation of usage in practice presumably differs between motorcycles and motor vehicles. In our previous study, we newly defined safety integrity levels for motorcycles (MSILs) and proposed that the levels of MSILs should correspond to levels one step lower than those of ASILs; however, we did not investigate the validity of their connections. Accordingly, in this research, we validated the connections. We defined the difference of levels of SILs between motorcycles and motor vehicles as the difference of target values of random hardware failure rates specified in ISO 26262-5. By taking into account the benefits of economy, convenience, and pleasure, it is considered that motorcycle and motor vehicle users accept the results of traffic accidents as upper limits on tolerable risks. Using recent traffic accident results, we compared accidental risks while riding motorcycles or motor vehicles. We demonstrated that the difference of levels of SILs between motorcycles and motor vehicles and the difference of upper limits on tolerable risk between motorcycles and motor vehicles balance each other. It is considered that this finding justifies setting the levels of MSILs one step lower than the levels of ASILs.
Enhancing Traffic Safety by Developing Vehicle Safety Envelope with Real Time Data Interface and Machine Learning Based Sensor Fusion Platform
Authors: Soloiu Valentin , Obando lng David , Mehrzed Shaen , Pierce Kody , Willis James , Rowell Aidan
Published: April 2023

The effectiveness of obstacle avoidance response safety systems such as ADAS, has demonstrated the necessity to optimally integrate and enhance these systems in vehicles in the interest of increasing the road safety of vehicle occupants and pedestrians. Vehicle-pedestrian clearance can be achieved with a model safety envelope based on distance sensors designed to keep a threshold between the ego-vehicle and pedestrians or objects in the traffic environment. More accurate, reliable and robust distance measurements are possible by the implementation of multi-sensor fusion. This work presents the structure of a machine learning based sensor fusion algorithm that can accurately detect a vehicle safety envelope with the use of a HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor, SF11/C microLiDAR sensor, and a 2D RPLiDAR A3M1 sensor. Sensors for the vehicle safety envelope and ADAS were calibrated for optimal performance and integration with versatile vehicle-sensor platforms. Results for this work include a robust distance sensor fusion algorithm that can correctly sense obstacles from 0.05m to 0.5m on average by 94.33% when trained as individual networks per distance. When the algorithm is trained as a common network of all distances, it can correctly sense obstacles at the same distances on average by 96.95%. Results were measured based on the precision and accuracy of the sensors’ outputs by the time of activation of the safety response once a potential collision was detected. From the results of this work the platform has the potential to identify collision scenarios, warning the driver, and taking corrective action based on the coordinate at which the risk has been identified.
Design and Optimization of Steering Assembly for Baja ATV Vehicle
Authors: Bhardwaj Vasu , Chauhan Ojasvi , Arora Rishabh
Published: April 2023

The steering assembly is a part of an automotive suspension system that provides control and stability. It provides control of direction, stability, and control over placement of the car. Optimization of the vehicle in weight results in enhanced performance and low fuel consumption, more so for an all-terrain race car. Optimization in this paper loosely refers to weight reduction and achieving the optimum stiffness to weight ratio of each component. This research encompasses various aspects linked to conceptualizing, designing, analysing, optimizing, and finally manufacturing the steering sub-system. Analytical calculations for mechanical design were performed using data from various experiments and jigs. CAD was developed using SolidWorks, and various analyses were performed using Altair HyperWorks. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was primarily used to build stress plots and locate weak spots aiding optimization. This paper also focuses on using composites and compound designs to optimize the strength-to-weight ratio. Contact Non-Linear analysis has been performed at regions of frictional contacts and interfering contacts. Composites have also been analysed using Altair HyperWorks by defining contacts and material properties to validate the designs before manufacturing. Stepwise setup and results have been enlisted to aid anyone looking to perform a similar analysis. 47% reduction in weight of steering assembly is achieved through this research. These changes result in lighter and yet, stronger designs optimum for a race car.
Model-Based Design of Controlled Suspension Incorporating Ride Comfort Sensory Performance Model for Vibration during Vehicle Driving
Authors: Kikuchi Hironobu , Inaba Kazuaki
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to build a model-based design tool that allows multidisciplinary teams to design vehicle performance targets using an easily understandable common index during the conceptual design phase of vehicle ride comfort performance. The newer a system is in the conceptual design stage without a prototype, the more difficult it is to describe its performance and impact on the vehicle. The originality of this study lies in the proposal of an understandable design tool for the social implementation of new technology, referred to as the multidisciplinary optimization (MDO) and “1DCAE” design concept. More specifically, the subject is the conceptual design of a unique electronically controlled damper system. A model-based development tool was developed, and numerical analysis was performed based on the following approach. A sensory performance model was constructed using a function that relates the acceleration RMS value of the vehicle body to a 10-point sensory evaluation scale. The sensory performance model was coupled with a vehicle control model and formulated as a nonlinear optimization problem to maximize the sensory score prediction. The numerical analysis results showed that the performance of the four suspension systems can be expressed in an abstracted and understandable overall ride comfort score. Insights regarding the usefulness of this tool can enable effective design based on easily understandable sensory metrics.
Numerical Assessment of Port Water Injection Capabilities to Reduce CO2 Emissions of a Lambda 1 Turbocharged Spark Ignition Engine
Authors: Gullino Fabrizio , Millo Federico , Rolando Luciano
Published: April 2023

The continuous tightening of CO2 emission targets along with the introduction of Real Driving Emissions (RDE) tests make Water Injection (WI) one of the most promising solutions to improve efficiency, enhance performance and reduce emissions of turbocharged high-performance Spark Ignition engines. This technology, by reducing local in-cylinder mixture temperature, enables higher compression ratios, optimal spark timing and stoichiometric combustion over the entire engine operating range. This research activity, therefore, aims to assess the benefits in terms of CO2 emission reduction of a Port Water Injection (PWI) system integrated in a Downsized Turbocharged Direct Injection Spark Ignition (T-DISI) Engine. In this regard, a 1D-CFD model of the engine capable to predict the impact of the water content on both the combustion process and the knock likelihood was firstly developed. After its validation against a huge set of experimental data collected over the entire operating map in wet and dry conditions, the engine model was embedded in a virtual test rig of a B-segment Sport Utility Vehicle. The fuel economy potential of several calibrations of the PWI system was then evaluated for different type approval and RDE driving cycles. The proposed results give a clear outlook of the capabilities of Port Water Injection which, in conjunction with high compression ratio and Miller strategy, enables a potential improvement of CO2 emission abatement in the range of 4-8% – depending on the driving conditions – with a still acceptable water consumption (lower than 1.1 l/100km).
Numerical Analysis of Combustion Process in the Dual Fuel Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Stipic Marija , Basara Branislav , Schmidt Steffen , Adams Nikolaus
Published: April 2023

Fully flexible dual fuel (DF) internal combustion (IC) engines, that can burn diesel and gas simultaneously, have become established among heavy-duty engines as they contribute significantly to lower the environmental impact of the transport sector. In order to gain better understanding of the DF combustion process and establish an effective design methodology for DFIC engines, high fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation tools are needed. The DF strategy poses new challenges for numerical modelling of the combustion process since all combustion regimes have to be modelled simultaneously. Furthermore, DF engines exhibit higher cycle-to-cycle variations (CCV) compared to the pure diesel engines. This issue can be addressed by employing large eddy simulation coupled with appropriate DF detailed chemistry mechanism. However, such an approach is computationally too expensive for today’s industry-related engine calculations. On the other hand, Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) based simulations coupled with combustion models lack the fidelity to accurately capture underlying flow physics. This work couples the Partially-Averaged Navier-Stokes (PANS) turbulence method with flamelet-generated manifold (FGM) tabulated chemistry approach for combustion modelling with the objective to provide an optimum between accuracy and computational cost. The PANS method is a scale resolving turbulence model which seamlessly vary from RANS to direct numerical simulation (DNS) depending upon the prescribed cut-off length. Two reaction mechanisms optimized for DF combustion process, using n-heptane and a mixture of methane/propane, were tested in order to find the most suitable mechanism for the generation of the FGM table. The feasibility of the methodology and ability to capture CCV is tested by simulating three different operating points of DF single cylinder research engine. The numerically obtained results are compared with the available experimental data.
A New Methodology for Comparing Knock Mitigation Strategies and Their Stability Margin
Authors: Mitchell Robert , Conway Graham , Wang Yanyu
Published: April 2023

The automotive sector is rapidly transitioning to decarbonized, electric vehicles solutions. However, due to challenges with such rapid adoption, Internal combustion engines (ICE) are expected to be used for decades to come. In this transition period it is important to continue to improve ICE efficiency. A key design parameter to increase ICE efficiency is the compression ratio. For gasoline engines, the compression ratio is limited so as to avoid knock. Engine designers can employ several strategies to mitigate knock and enable higher compression ratios. In this study, a new methodology has been developed to compare various knock mitigation strategies. By comparing the knock limited load at a given combustion phasing the expected compression ratio increase can be inferred. Knock mitigation techniques examined in the paper include coolant temperature, manifold temperature, start of injection, split fuel injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and water injection, both port and direct. Critically, a knock mitigation technology should not excessively compromise the combustion stability. This methodology includes a test for the combustion phasing at a 5% coefficient of variation (CoV) of the net indicated mean effective pressure (nIMEP). The difference between the CA50 at the knock limited load and the stability limited is noted as the stability margin. It is critical for designers and engineers to insure that an engine operates within both the knock and stability boundaries. Different strategies for knock mitigation affect knock and stability differently. The proposed methodology provides an efficient yet accurate way to quantify the impact of technologies. For example, EGR provides a significant increase in knock limited load but also decreases the stability margin by increasing ignition requirements. Water injection, on a per volume basis, provided a smaller increase in knock limited load but has a smaller impact on combustion stability.
Combined Impacts of Engine Speed and Fuel Reactivity on Energy-Assisted Compression-Ignition Operation with Sustainable Aviation Fuels
Authors: Stafford Jacob , Amezcua Eri , Miganakallu Narasimhamurthy Niranjan , Kim Kenneth , Kweon Chol-Bum , Rothamer David
Published: April 2023

The combined impacts of engine speed and fuel reactivity on energy-assisted compression-ignition (EACI) combustion using a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) ceramic glow plug for low-load operation werexxz investigated. The COTS glow plug, used as the ignition assistant (IA), was overdriven beyond its conventional operation range. Engine speed was varied from 1200 RPM to 2100 RPM. Three fuel blends consisting of a jet-A fuel with military additives (F24) and a low cetane number alcohol-to-jet (ATJ) sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) were tested with cetane numbers (CN) of 25.9, 35.5, and 48.5. The ranges of engine speed and fuel cetane numbers studied are significantly larger than those in previous studies of EACI or glow-plug assisted combustion, and the simultaneous variation of engine speed and fuel reactivity are unique to this work. For each speed and fuel, a single-injection of fixed mass was used and the start of injection (SOI) was swept for each IA power. A maximum pressure rise rate (MPRR) limit of 20 bar/CAD and a coefficient of variation of gross indicated mean effective pressure (COV of IMEPg) limit of 5% were used as the bounds for the safe SOI operating range. Results demonstrated that the use of an ignition assistant at a high input power (70 W) can significantly increase the range of SOIs that fall within the prescribed safe operating range. For the higher cetane number fuels (35.5 and 48.5), that burn well without the IA, an advancement in start of combustion (SOC) and combustion phasing were observed with operation of the IA at 70 W. For the low CN fuel (25.9), which misfired without the use of the IA, complete combustion could be achieved with the use of the IA at 70 W. At higher engine speeds, the effectiveness of the IA diminishes. To better understand why the IA effectiveness decreased, a thermocouple was used to measure the IA tip surface temperature in-cylinder. Under motored engine conditions with fixed IA power, the IA surface temperature decreased as engine speed increased. The lower IA surface temperature along with the shorter time available as engine speed increased contributed to the decreased effectiveness at higher engine speeds.
Effects on Performance, Efficiency, Emissions, Cylinder Pressure, and Injection of a Common-Rail Diesel Engine When Using a Blend of 15% Biodiesel (B15) or 15% Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO15)
Authors: Serrano Luis , Carvalho Paulo , Bastos Daniela , Pires Nuno
Published: April 2023

Road mobility is evolving driven by environmental and energy constraints. The pursuit of cleaner and more efficient drivetrain systems has resulted in significant R&D work in the areas of fuels, engine efficiency, and pollutant control. It is essential to reduce the environmental impacts of internal combustion engines due to the overwhelming presence of vehicles equipped with these engines in today’s fleet, so the need to develop fuels with the potential to significantly reduce CO2 emissions is obvious. The main objective of this work is to understand the behavioral effects in the engine when fueled with different biofuel percentages blended in conventional diesel (B7, B15 and HVO15). This was accomplished by several experimental tests carried out on a dynamometer using a vehicle equipped with a common-rail Diesel engine, considering performance analysis (power and torque) and WLTP cycles to realize fuel consumption and emission data. Additionally, to understand the way the engine perceives the use of different fuels the in-chamber pressure and the fuel injector behavior were measured, considering different load and engine speed conditions. It was observed that B7 was the most efficient fuel, presenting fuel consumption values of 5.94 kg/100km, lower than 6.10 kg/100km for HVO15 and 5.99kg/100km for B15. The differences in performance for B7 and HVO15 were almost unnoticeable. Nevertheless, some consistent differences in injector opening times and in-cylinder pressure were noted, which supports the observed engine performance and efficiency results, allowing to detect the relation of engine adaptation to different fuel properties, its energetic and environmental effects.
Combustion Characteristics of Low DCN Synthetic Aviation Fuel, IPK, in a High Compression Ignition Indirect Injection Research Engine
Authors: Soloiu Valentin , Weaver Amanda , Smith Richard , Rowell Aidan , Mcafee John , Willis James
Published: April 2023

The Coal-To-Liquid (CTL) synthetic aviation fuel, Iso-Paraffinic Kerosene (IPK), was studied for ignition delay, combustion delay, pressure trace, pressure rise rate, apparent heat release rate in an experimental single cylinder indirect injection (IDI) compression ignition engine and a constant volume combustion chamber (CVCC). Autoignition characteristics for neat IPK, neat Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD), and a blend of 50%IPK and 50% ULSD were determined in the CVCC and the effects of the autoignition quality of each fuel were determined also in an IDI engine. ULSD was found to have a Derived Cetane Number (DCN) of 47 for the batch used in this experimentation. IPK was found to have a DCN of 25.9 indicating that is has a lower affinity for autoignition, and the blend fell between the two at 37.5. Additionally, it was found that the ignition delay for IPK in the CVCC was 5.3 ms and ULSD was 3.56 ms. This increase in ignition delay allowed the accumulation of fuel in the combustion chamber when running with IPK that resulted in detonation of the premixed air and fuel found to cause high levels of Ringing Intensity (RI) when running neat IPK indicated by the 60% increase in Peak Pressure Rise Rate (PPRR) when compared to ULSD at the same load. An emissions analysis was conducted at 7 bar Indicated Mean Effective Pressure (IMEP) for ULSD and the blend of 50% ULSD and 50% IPK. With the addition of 50% IPK by mass, there was found to be a reduction in the NOx, CO2, with a slight increase in the CO in g/kWh.
Combustion Cycle-To-Cycle Variation Analysis in Diesel Baseline Hydrogen-Fueled Spark-Ignition Engines
Authors: Ramalho Leite Caio , Oung Richard , BREQUIGNY Pierre , Borée Jacques , Foucher Fabrice
Published: April 2023

In the search for zero-carbon emissions and energy supply security, hydrogen is one of the fuels considered for internal combustion engines. The state-of-the-art studies show that a good strategy to mitigate NOx emissions in hydrogen-fueled spark-ignition engines (H2ICE) is burning ultra-lean hydrogen-air mixtures in current diesel architectures, due to their capability of standing high in-cylinder pressures. However, it is well-known that decreasing equivalence ratio leads to higher engine instability and greater cycle-to-cycle variations (CCVs). Nevertheless, hydrogen flames, especially at low equivalence ratios and high pressures, present thermodiffusive instabilities that speed up combustion, changing significantly the flame development and possibly its variability. This work evaluates the hydrogen combustion and their CCVs in two single-cylinder diesel baseline H2ICEs (light-duty and medium-duty) and their influence on performance parameters. The analysis is done using three CCV indicators (for flame initiation, propagation, and end-flame periods) in four main strategies: varying fuel-air equivalence ratio (from 0.2 to 0.8), swirl intensity, spark timing, and spark plug type. The cyclic variations are higher at low loads and leaner mixtures. While, at high loads, the engine presents low combustion CCVs, around 10 % in all combustion phases, at idle they can go up to 20 % in the flame propagation phase (10 to 50 % of mass fraction burned - MFB). The fluctuations of the flame propagation duration are highly impacted by the equivalence ratio. Furthermore, the behavior of the combustion duration at the initiation (0 to 10 % MFB) and propagation phases suggests that other phenomena play an important role in hydrogen combustion in engines besides the laminar burning velocity property. For this, a flame speed enhancement model which considers hydrogen’s intrinsic instabilities is applied to evaluate the flames at the operating conditions.
Correlation of Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis with Simulated Distillation of US Market Gasoline Samples and its Effect on the PEI-SimDis Equation of Calculated Vehicle Particulate Emissions
Authors: Reilly Veronica , Goralski Sarah , Salyers John , Geng Pat , Dozier Jon
Published: April 2023

Several predictive equations based on the chemical composition of gasoline have been shown to estimate the particulate emissions of light-duty, internal combustion engine (ICE) powered vehicles and are reviewed in this paper. Improvements to one of them, the PEISimDis equation are detailed herein. The PEISimDis predictive equation was developed by General Motor’s researchers in 2022 based on two laboratory gas chromatography (GC) analyses; Simulated Distillation (SimDis), ASTM D7096 and Detailed Hydrocarbon Analysis (DHA), ASTM D6730. The DHA method is a gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) methodology and provides the detailed speciation of the hundreds of hydrocarbon species within gasoline. A DHA’s aromatic species from carbon group seven through ten plus (C7 – C10+) can be used to calculate a Particulate Evaluation Index (PEI) of a gasoline, however this technique takes many hours to derive because of its long chromatography analysis time. A faster (< 15 min.), but lower resolution chromatography technique known as SimDis, which uses wide bore capillary GC and a flame ionization detector (FID) can be used to analyze a gasoline’s boiling point (volatility) characteristics. The PEISimDis equation was developed using multiple Boiling Point range windows from the SimDis GC analysis relating to the aromatic species identified by the DHA. An enhanced PEISimDis equation is shown [Eq. 5] and has been shown to correlate strongly to other predictive particulate emissions equations such as Particulate Matter Index (PMI) and PEI. The SimDis GC method and subsequent enhanced PEISimDis predictive equation provides a rapid estimate of a gasoline’s tendency to produce vehicle particulate emissions [7].

As a continuation from previous work (P.Geng et al., 2022), this paper presents a study of the correlation of DHA and SimDis, but this time using a wide range of U.S. market gasoline samples.
Comparison and Evaluation of Engine Wear, Engine Performance, NOx Reduction and Nanoparticle Emission by using Gasoline, JP-8, Karanja Oil Methyl Ester Biodiesel, and Diesel in a Military 720 kW, Heavy-Duty CIDI Engine Applying EGR with Turbo Charging
Authors: Pandey Anand Kumar , Nandgaonkar Milankumar , Varghese Anil , sonawane C , Kohil Ritesh , Warke Arundhati
Published: April 2023

Rapid depletion of petroleum crude oil resources, stringent regulations on gaseous emission, and global warming due to exhaust pollution have compelled us to use the alternative of diesel fuel. Biodiesel is a green alternative fuel that can be produced from edible as well as non-edible vegetable oils, waste cooking frying oils, and animal fats. Biodiesel is an oxygenated, bio-gradable, renewable, non-sulfur, and non-toxic fuel. JP-8 is an aviation turbine fuel and is readily available. Gasoline fuel is also available in surplus. Under the multi-fuel strategy program, optimization of fuel availability is required for both, military combat as well as highway commercial heavy-duty vehicles. It was essential to assess the performance, NOx reduction, nanoparticle emission, and engine wear by using Gasoline, JP-8, and esterified Karanja oil biodiesel fuels on a military heavy-duty diesel engine. EGR is a useful technique to reduce NOx emissions. A Military heavy-duty,12-cylinders,720 kW, compression ignition diesel injection (CIDI) engine was operated using all three test fuels applying 10% EGR. All tests were conducted at different engine speeds with load conditions between 20% and 100%. A slight deterioration (2-5%) in engine performance was observed for Gasoline, JP-8, and KOME biodiesel fuels as compared to diesel fuel. NOx emission was reduced by 15-26% along with lowered nanoparticle emission when the engine was operated with Gasoline, JP-8, and KOME biodiesel fuels. Engine wear was found maximum (1-2.6%) with Gasoline and JP-8 fuel.
Influence of Intake Air Temperature, Nozzle Opening Pressure and Fuel Injection Timing on the performance of Variable Compression Ratio Engine fueled with Biobutanol and Pyrolised Waste Plastic Oil
Authors: B Prabakaran
Published: April 2023

Disposal of waste plastic materials is a challenge in today's scenario and disposal of waste vegetables and fruits are costing very high. This work is to use biobutanol from the waste vegetables and fruits along with pyrolyzed waste plastic oil to replace diesel. Various proportions of biobutanol (0-50%) and plastic oil (0-50%) are prepared and tested for solubility and properties. The obtained properties are compared with diesel engine fuel base properties to select a blend that possesses closer properties. The chosen blend is tested for performance in various intake air temperatures (50, 75 and 100°C); one of the temperatures among the three which is producing higher thermal efficiency is considered for further testing. Other parameters nozzle opening pressure (190, 200 and 210 bar), Fuel Injection Timing (23, 26 and 29° before top dead centre) and Compression Ratios (16: 1, 17.5:1 and 19:1) are tabulated with respect to L9 Orthogonal array cum Taguchi method to arrive at optimal parameters combination. These parameters are deployed and the chosen blend is tested for various load conditions for performance. The results of the properties depicted that 85% of plastic oil and 15% of biobutanol blend is found suitable to replace diesel. The intake air temperature of 75°C is producing the highest thermal efficiency among the three intake air temperatures. The optimal level of the other three parameters is a 19:1 compression ratio, 26° before the top dead centre of fuel injection timing and 210 bar of the nozzle opening pressure with respect to the thermal efficiency and oxides of nitrogen emissions from the engine when fueled with the chosen blend. This produces marginally higher carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon emissions at low brake power conditions lower than 50% of rated power. The cost of the chosen blend works out to 0.82 dollars per litre against 1.21 dollars per litre in India.
DME-Propane Ignition Delay Time Measurements at Mixing Controlled Compression Ignition Engine-Relevant Conditions
Authors: Mohammed Zuhayr Pasha , Khaleel Rahman Ramees , Pierro Michael , Urso Justin , Vasu Subith
Published: April 2023

The blend of dimethyl ether (DME, CH3OCH3) and propane (C3H8) is a potentially renewable fuel mixture that has the potential to replace diesel in compression ignition engines. The combination can potentially reduce particulate and greenhouse gas emissions compared to a conventional diesel engine operating under similar conditions. However, detailed conceptual and simulation studies must be conducted before adopting a new fuel on a compression ignition engine. For these simulations, accurate chemical kinetic models are necessary. However, the validity of chemical kinetic mechanisms in the literature is unknown for mixing controlled compression ignition (MCCI) engine operating conditions. Hence, in this work, we studied the ignition of dimethyl ether (DME) and propane blends in a shock tube at MCCI engine conditions. Ignition delay time (IDT) data was collected behind the reflected shock for DME-propane mixtures for heavy-duty compression ignition (CI) engine parameters. Undiluted experiments spanning temperatures of 700 to 1100 K and pressures of 55 to 84 bar for various blends (100% CH3OCH3/ 0% C3H8, 100% C3H8/ 0% CH3OCH3, 60% CH3OCH3/ 40% C3H8) of DME and propane were combusted in synthetic air (21% O2/ 79% N2). Some experiments were conducted at higher pressures (90-120 bar) to understand model performance at these conditions. Comparisons of IDT were made with the predictions of recent chemical kinetic mechanisms for DME-propane mixture, including the Aramco3.0, NUIG, and Dames et al. mechanisms. All mechanisms overpredicted IDT compared to experimental values. Sensitivity analysis was conducted with Dames et al. model, and critical reactions sensitive to IDT of DME-propane mixture near 100 bar are outlined.
Impact of Hydrothermal and Chemical Aging on SCR Storage Characteristics and NO
x
Reduction Performance in an Ultra-Low NO
x
System
Authors: Chundru Venkata Rajesh , Desai Chintan , Kadam Vaibhav , Rengarajan Sankar , Rao Sandesh , Sharp Christopher , Vernham Bruce , Sarlashkar Jayant
Published: April 2023

This work is a part of medium-duty Low NOx technology development project with a focus on evaluating a combination of engine and advanced aftertreatment for 0.02 g/bhp-hr NOx regulation proposed by CARB (California air resource board). In this project, a control oriented chemical kinetics model of SCR (Selective catalytic reduction) was used in the aftertreatment controller that is susceptible to performance degradation due to hydrothermal and chemical aging. This paper focuses on modeling the NOx conversion and NH3 storage characteristics using a controls oriented SCR plant model which is further used for a model-based urea dosing scheme. A set of steady state reactor tests were used to calibrate the SCR performance at degreened, hydrothermal only and hydrothermal + chemical aging conditions and also to determine inhibition factors related to aging. The resultant model is capable of simulating SCR performance deterioration such as a reduction in NOx conversion and NH3 storage. A non-linear aging profile was observed for Lo-SCR and downstream SCR showing a change in the NOx conversion in the aged system when compared to a degreened system. Upon chemical aging further deterioration of low temperature performance was observed. This aging phenomenon impacts the dosing control strategy of the system. The results on controller performance for a set of Heavy Duty Federal Test Protocol(FTP), Ramp Modal Cycle (RMC), and Low Load Cycle (LLC) are presented.
Non Linear Estimator Design for Air to Fuel Ratio Measurement Using Neural Network Based Approach in Spark Ignited Engine
Authors: Bagade Monika Jayprakash , Das Himadri , Mandloi Deepak , R Harini
Published: April 2023

Precise measurement of Air-fuel ratio (AFR) or Lambda value plays a substantial role in controlling exhaust emission from an internal combustion engine. Estimation of AFR is a significant factor to determine the engine performance and to optimize the catalyst conversion efficiency which has direct impact on increase or decrease of emissions. Most of the production two-wheeler engine determines AFR by using non-linear lambda sensor (Narrow band oxygen sensor) but it limits the AFR control due to restrictions in its performance and operating time. A wideband lambda sensor is more accurate and faster but may not be economical to place on low-cost vehicles. A time varying ion current signal can be easily captured on vehicle with minimal additional requirements. AFR has direct correlation with various engine parameters such as Engine speed, Throttle position sensor (TPS), Manifold air pressure (MAP), Fuel injection pulse width (FPW), etc. These signals can be captured with the pre installed vehicle sensors. Neural network-based model can be designed and trained to estimate AFR from different vehicle parameters. Results of neural network model can be improved by considering narrowband sensor as an additional input along with others inputs.

The work presented in this paper is implemented for a production vehicle ignition system for two wheeled vehicles. Multiple engine parameters as an input and Universal exhaust gas oxygen sensor (UEGO) as an output are acquired using a data acquisition system. The data is used to train and validate the neural network model to determine the possibility of using it for accurate AFR estimation. A wide range of lambda sensor is considered by performing experiment at different engine operating conditions. The model is validated for steady state as well as dynamic operating condition by running engine on dynamometer and by riding vehicle on day traffic scenario respectively. A detailed study is presented to compare the various models of artificial neural network (ANN) and recurrent neural network (RNN). The paper discusses the results by considering the effect of variation in different neural network model parameters along with engine parameters.
The Effect of Exhaust Emission Conditions and Coolant Temperature on the Composition of Exhaust Gas Recirculation Cooler Deposits
Authors: Tomuro Minato , Bhadra Kaustav , Hebert Jason , Boehman Andre
Published: April 2023

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) coolers are widely used on diesel engines to reduce in-cylinder NOx formation. A common problem is the accumulation of a fouling layer inside the heat exchanger, mainly due to thermophoresis that leads to deposition of particulate matter (PM), and condensation of hydrocarbons (HC) from the diesel exhaust. From a recent investigation of deposits from field samples of EGR coolers, it was confirmed that the densities of their deposits were much higher than reported in previous studies. In this study, the experiments were conducted in order to verify hypotheses about deposit growth, especially densification. An experimental set up which included a custom-made shell and tube type heat exchanger with six surrogate tubes was designed to control flow rate independently, and was installed on a 1.9 L L-4 common rail turbo diesel engine. The test cycle and conditions were higher PM/ lower HC with 75°C coolant temperature for 1.5h, then lower PM/ higher HC with 75°C or 35°C coolant temperature for 0.5h, which was repeated 3 times. Deposits from a tube were collected every cycle for a total of 6h. In the analysis, the deposit surface was observed with a scanning electron microscope, thickness was measured by an optical microscope, and the volatile content was analyzed by a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). The results of this study showed that including the cold coolant condition cycle could keep higher heat exchanger effectiveness compared to the hot coolant condition, even though total deposit weight was almost the same. In addition, growth of the deposit thickness was not seen with the cold coolant condition, which was confirmed via the measurements of deposit densification. These data indicate that there is possibly a correlation between repeated hydration of the deposit by condensed water and drying.
Correlated Simulation of Pseudo Transient Torque Converter Clutch Engagement Using Coupled Fluid Structure Interaction
Authors: Beldar Aniket , Robinette Darrell , Blough Jason
Published: April 2023

This investigation utilizes a correlated fluid-structure interaction (FSI) model of the torque converter and clutch assembly to perform a pseudo transient clutch engagement at steady state operating conditions. The pseudo transient condition consists of a series of nine steady state simulations that transition the torque converter clutch from fully released to near full lockup at a constant input torque and output speed representative of a highway cruising speed. The flow and pressured field of the torque converter torus and clutch are solved using a CFD model and then passed along to a transient structural model to determine the torque capacity of the lockup clutch. Bulk property assumptions regarding the friction material, deformation of the clutch plate, and deflection of supporting structures were made to simplify the model setup, run time, and solution convergence. Telemetry pressure measurements acquired in an operating torque converter under similar operating conditions on a transmission dynamometer test stand are provided to demonstrate FSI model correlation and behavior. A total of nine steady-state speed ratio simulations were run, from fully released to nearly fully locked torque converter clutch with less than 5% error in predicted pressure values compared with measured telemetry data. Visualization of the transmission fluid behavior within the torque converter pressure vessel during the engagement of the clutch from released to less than 10 rpm slip condition are provided. The overall objective of the investigation was to seek out and identify any potential fluid phenomena that contribute to undesirable control of the lockup clutch at low slip speed ratios.
Development of the New 2.0L Hybrid System for Prius
Authors: Hirota Satoshi , Kikuchi Takaji , Katanoda Tomoya
Published: April 2023

It is necessary for us to reduce CO2 emissions in order to hold down global warming which is advancing year by year. Toyota Motor Corporation believes that not only the introduction of BEVs but also the sale of the hybrid vehicles must spread in order to achieve the necessary CO2 reduction. Therefore, we planned to improve the attractiveness of future hybrid vehicles. Prius has always made full use of hybrid technologies and leading to significant CO2 reduction. Toyota Motor Corporation has developed a 2.0L hybrid system for the new Prius. We built the system which could achieve a comfortable drive along following the customer’s intention while improving the fuel economy more than a conventional system. The engine improves on both output and thermal efficiency. The transaxle decreases mechanical loss by downsizing the differential, and adoption of low viscosity oil. The Power Control Unit (PCU) is downsized by using high frequency for boost conversion and decreases loss by the adoption of Reverse Conducting Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor (RC-IGBT). In addition, we’ve downsized the battery along with increasing the output power by adopting a new Li-ion battery. We also increased the output power of the E-Four system. This improves turning performance for dry road in addition to improving hill start performance. Moreover, we built in a drive force characteristic that adapts to the new acceleration pedal, therefore, following the customer’s intention.
A New Solid Electrolyte with A High Lithium Ionic Conductivity for Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Qifeng , Ding Yi
Published: April 2023

Solid-state lithium-ion batteries that use a solid electrolyte may potentially operate at wide temperatures and provide satisfactory safety. Moreover, the use of a solid electrolyte, which blocks the formation of lithium dendrites, allows batteries to use metallic lithium for the anode, enabling the batteries gain an energy density significantly higher than that of traditional lithium-ion batteries. Solid electrolytes play a role of conducting lithium ions and are the core of solid-state lithium-ion batteries. However, the development of solid lithium electrolytes towards a high lithium ionic conductivity, good chemical and electrochemical stability and scalable manufacturing method has been challenging. We report a new material composed of nitrogen-doped lithium metaphosphate, denoted as NLiPO3. The material delivers a lithium ionic conductivity on the order of 10-4 S/cm at room temperature, which is about two orders of magnitude higher than that of conventional LiPON – the electrolyte currently used in solid-state thin-film lithium-ion batteries, and is comparable or generally higher than that of most of the existing solid electrolytes. The high lithium ionic conductivity was attributed to the formation of P−N<PP bonds in amorphous LiPO3. The material is stable in ambient environment over a wide range of temperature and can be handled and processed easily. These merits make the material a promising electrolyte for solid-state lithium-ion battery applications.
Restitution and Crash Pulse Duration from Low-Speed Crash Tests
Authors: Paradiso Marc , McDowell Eric
Published: April 2023

Frontal crashes are the most common crash mode in the US vehicle fleet, and a large proportion of these crashes are “fender-benders” or low-speed collisions. This, among other considerations, led the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to conduct a series of low-speed front and rear bumper impact tests. These crash tests have been performed on passenger vehicles manufactured by various manufacturers since 1970 and continuing through the 2009 model year. Test data and video for individual tests are available through IIHS’s online data portal, most extensively for model years 2007 to 2009. While IIHS’s test protocol varied over the years, these tests specified, in part, a full engagement impact of the tested vehicle into a rigid, bumper-shaped barrier covered with an energy absorber. Although IIHS reported the closing speed for each test, they did not report the separation speed or crash pulse duration. These values have been determined, in the current study, by analyzing the high-speed video provided for each test by IIHS. While restitution (which characterizes the relationship between impact and separation speeds) and crash pulse duration for low-speed impacts have been previously discussed in the literature, a comprehensive analysis of low-speed crash test data has not been published. Furthermore, since the IIHS test data consisted of both underride and full engagement tests (as classified by IIHS), this paper will also evaluate the difference in restitution and crash pulse duration between these impact configurations.