The following paper presents a thermodynamic analysis of a CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) plant that works with ORC; electric power is always approximately equal to 20 kWe. Through thermodynamic optimizations were compared, for various working fluids(R134a, R245fa, Acetone), the results in terms of ɳgel and absorbing mirrorssurface; for the same electrical power. For the systems that works with acetone, it also provided for the study of the selection of the most suitable machines to the thermodynamic cycle under consideration. We highlight the construction simplicity of the ORC systems and greater efficiency for lower ratio of the temperature difference

The paper is focused on the development of a fractal combustion model, included within a whole-engine one-dimensional model (1Dime code). An extensive validation is carried out through the comparison with experimental data. The experimental activity was carried out in the combustion chamber of an optically accessible one-cylinder engine, equipped with a commercial head. Experimental data basically consisted on optical measurements which were also correlated to the instantaneous pressure inside the cylinder. Optical measurements were based on 2D digital imaging and UV chemiluminescence of radical species. The rate of chemical energy release and related parameters were evaluated from the in-cylinder pressure data using interpretation models for heat release analysis. Moreover a post-processing of the optical measurements allowed to define the mean flame radius, and propagation speeds as well, as a function of the crank angle. Theoretical and experimental analyses allowed to fully characterize flame structure and propagation speed as well. In order to estimate prediction levels and limitations of the numerical procedure, different engine speeds and spark timings were experimentally analyzed. A good agreement has been found in the whole tested range.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADASs) are currently gaining particular attention in the automotive field, as enablers for vehicle energy consumption, safety, and comfort enhancement. Compelling evidence is in fact provided by the variety of related studies that are to be found in the literature. Moreover, considering the actual technology readiness, larger opportunities might stem from the combination of ADASs and vehicle connectivity. Nevertheless, the definition of a suitable control system is not often trivial, especially when dealing with multiple-objective problems and dynamics complexity. In this scenario, even though diverse strategies are possible (e.g., Equivalent Consumption Minimization Strategy, Rule-based strategy, etc.), the Model Predictive Control (MPC) turned out to be among the most effective ones in fulfilling the aforementioned tasks. Hence, the proposed study is meant to produce a comprehensive review of MPCs applied to scenarios where ADASs are exploited and aims at providing the guidelines to select the appropriate strategy. More precisely, particular attention is paid to the prediction phase, the objective function formulation and the constraints. Subsequently, the interest is shifted to the combination of ADASs and vehicle connectivity to assess for how such information is handled by the MPC. The main results from the literature are presented and discussed, along with the integration of MPC in the optimal management of higher level connection and automation. Current gaps and challenges are addressed to, so as to possibly provide hints on future developments.

A wide experimental investigation on a 16 valves, 1242 cm3 SI-engine is reported. Experimental data were collected in correspondence with about 250 different operating conditions of the engine. This allowed to deeply assess the accuracy of a simulation model (1Dime code), developed by the authors, based on a one-dimensional computation of the gas flow in the manifolds, and on a quasi-dimensional fractal approach for combustion simulation. The model is then employed to theoretically verify the advantages that can be exploited from the adoption of various VVT (Variable Valve Timing) or VVA (Variable Valve Actuation) systems, including those realizing a throttle-less operation of the engine. The gains predicted in terms of torque profile at WOT, and of BSFC or NOx emissions at part load are quantified and discussed. The main objective is the development of a methodology, which can substantially reduce experimental activity and help the definition of optimal control strategies of a VVT-equipped engine.