Off topic, but related subject matter...

[Bob Valentine]

On Thu, 28 Mar 1996, Stephen Lamb wrote:

> >         I've heard rumours that a company somewhere had developed a system
> >that replaces camshafts with computer controlled solenoids to actuate the
> >valve train. Has anyone here heard the same, or know a logical point to
> >start searching from? 

  Try this month's Automotive Industries.  It's the annual "Motors" 
issue...  They have a few pages devoted to a system that's been developed 
to do valve acutaction with electromagnets - efficiently!


> >From a performance standpoint, one could program a
> >limitless variety of "virtual camshaft" profiles, like Honda's VTEC, or any
> >of the available variable valve timing schemes. Only more so, as one is not
> >limited to 2 profiles.

   Just about.  The problem for the longest time has been acutating the 
valves without drawing huge amounts of electrical power.   Just think, 20 
years from now you can make your 500hp V8 idle sounding like a 200k mile 
junker.  Press the keypad and you're back to your normal profile.  8^)

                     -->   Bob Valentine  <--  
                    --> ravalent at liii.com  <--
        "Experience varies directly with equipment ruined"