Principle

The MCE-5 is an all-in-one engine block integrating both innovative components that transmit power from the piston to the crankshaft, and exclusive actuators, which permit controlling the engine Compression Ratio. Main components of the MCE-5 VCR engine block are shown in the following scheme:

The MCE-5 engine block is a combination of two principles, which constitute the technical basis for the entire automotive industry: gears and rod-crank mechanism. In a way, the MCE-5 engine block is a hybrid resulting from the crossing of an engine with a gearbox:

This arrangement presents exclusive features and advantages:

1) The engine remains compatible with all combustion chamber shapes and cylinder head designs;
2)

Its piston kinematics remains exactly the same than that of a conventional engine with the same rod/crank ratio. This remains always true whatever the Compression Ratio;
3)

The integrated exclusive hydraulic actuators provide a wide range, precise and continuous Compression Ratio control for each cylinder of the engine.
4)

The crankshaft is particularly rigid (crank is reduced by half);
5)

The crank-case rigidity is at least equivalent to that of conventional engines, providing a rigid and precise bearing line and an optimum geometrical environment for all moving parts.
6)

The piston is roller-guided and is no longer subjected to rod thrust (no piston radial stress) or to piston slap. Forces that generate torque on crankshaft are entirely assumed by rollers: this arrangement reduces friction losses and widely extends the cylinder lifespan. This constitutes a strong response to the durability problem of highly downsized high-loaded engines;
7)

All components are enclosed in the engine block and no moving part is visible from the outside. The engine is fixed into vehicles and connected to gearbox, pipes and peripherals as if it were a conventional engine;

Details are given in other sections of this web site.

 
MCE-5 DEVELOPMENT SA 21 avenue Georges Pompidou F-69486 LYON Cedex 03 FRANCE