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Principles, Efficiency Optimization and Future Applications of IC Engines
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:54
Abstract
Future Relevance of IC engines for transportation and Power-on-Demand. Characteristic performance parameters, operating maps and duty cycles. Thermodynamic cycles and energetic optimization. In-cylinder flows, heat transfer, combustion modes, boosting and simulation methods. Hybrid powertrains, decentralized power/heat cogeneration and use of renewable/e-fuels.
Objective
The students get familiar with operating characteristics and efficiency maximization methods of IC engines for propulsion and decentralized electricity (and heat) generation. To this end, they learn about simulation methods and related experimental techniques for performance assessment in a combination of lectures and exercises.
Content
This lecture aims at introducing the students to the working principles and efficiency optimization methods for Internal Combustion (IC) engines which are expected to continue to play a very important role in transportation (long-haul heavy duty, marine), off-road applications and decentralized combined heat and power generation. Following an overview of different applications and powertrains, the course will focus on the following topics: First, a generic overview of the history of IC-Engines is given, and the basic dimensions and specific engine-relevant terminology are introduced. Next, operating maps for different duty cycles are discussed, highlighting the benefits of individual powertrain configurations for different usage scenarios. The high-pressure thermodynamic process and combustion-induced heat release are analyzed in detail and the design of the combustion processes is discussed in view of further optimization of the energy conversion efficiency. The concept of boosting, its challenges and potential are also presented. In addition, flow field characteristics, convective and radiative heat transfer and combustion modes (Otto and Diesel cycles) will be discussed along with possible simulation methods. The course consists of lectures combined with exercises. In addition, several invited guest talks will be held by representatives from Swiss industrial companies active in this field. A lab. visit to Empa with different engine test facilities is further envisioned.
Resources
Literature
J. Heywood, Internal Combustion Engine Fundamentals, McGraw-Hill
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Registration & Places
- Max Places
- 50
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Principles, Efficiency Optimization and Future Applications of IC Engines | No time listed | 2 h weekly |
| exercise | Principles, Efficiency Optimization and Future Applications of IC Engines | No time listed | 1 h weekly |
Offered In
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Core Courses (The Core Courses in the Master’s program Mechanical Engineering listed below are indicative and include courses designed by the Department at the Master's level. With the approval of the tutor, students may also select Master's-level courses offered by other departments at ETH. These courses will be marked as non-regular in the LAG, but their categorization as Core Courses is possible if included in the approved LAG.)
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