Off topic, but related subject matter...

[David Schmidt]

In the new issue of Chilton's automotive industries, they did an article on 
a company called AURA in California that is making some neat electrical
components for cars, such as an integrated flywheel/alternator/starter.
Also highlight was a solenoid activated valve train.  They have springs that
hold the intake and exhaust valves in mid open position.  A CLOSE and OPEN
solenoid is activated to either close or open the valve.  Since solenoids 
don't work well over large distances, keeping the valve spring loaded in the
half lift position, they are able to use lower current solenoids.

    Apparently they've been modifying some major manufacturer's engines and
sending them back for performance reviews.  Interesting stuff.

At 04:09 PM 3/28/96 +1100, you 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? 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.
>
>I think it was Renault (?) that developed a pneumatically operated valve
>system for their F1 engines some years back.  Don't know much about it or
>how successful it was.
>
>Cheers
>
>Stephen Lamb
>Dept. of Defence DSTO, AMRL
>506 Lorimer Street
>Fishermans Bend  VIC  3207 Australia
>Tel: +61 3 9626 7525
>Fax: +61 3 9626 7089
>
>IZCC #180
>
>
>