Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2014

Publication Source

SAE International Journal of Commercial Vehicles

Abstract

Automotive starting systems require substantial amounts of mechanical energy in a short period of time. Lead-acid batteries have historically provided that energy through a starter motor. Springs have been identified as an alternative energy storage medium and are well suited to engine-starting applications due to their ability to rapidly deliver substantial mechanical power and their long service life. This paper presents the development of a conceptual, spring-based starter. The focus of the study was to determine whether a spring of acceptable size could provide the required torque and rotational speed to start an automotive engine. Engine testing was performed on a representative 600 cc, inline 4-cylinder internal combustion engine to determine the required torque and engine speed during the starting cycle. An optimization was performed to identify an appropriate spring design, minimizing its size. Results predict that the test engine could be started by a torsional steel spring with a diameter and length of approximately 150 mm, similar in size, but lower weight than an electrical starting system of the engine. A proof-of-concept prototype has been constructed and evaluated.

Inclusive pages

286-294

ISBN/ISSN

1946-3928

Document Version

Published Version

Comments

This document is provided for download in compliance with the publisher's policy on self-archiving. Permission documentation is on file.

Publisher

SAE International

Volume

7

Issue

1

Peer Reviewed

yes


Share

COinS