MRacing Variable Valve Timing

Abstract

MRacing, Michigan’s Formula SAE team, is tasked each year to create the fastest, most efficient car possible. MRacing’s Honda CBR600RR engine uses a dual-overhead camshaft system to control intake and exhaust valve actuation. The valve timing of this system is fixed relative to engine speed and is therefore only optimized for a singular engine speed. The purpose of this project is to develop a mechanism to optimize the valve timing of MRacing's Honda CBR600RR engine, for each engine speed, resulting in significant gains in torque and efficiency of the engine and therefore improve MRacing’s performance in Formula SAE dynamic events. The goal for our team is to design, manufacture, and test a mechanical system that can be assembled directly to the existing MRacing engine. Our manufactured product is required to optimize valve timing, increase torque, and package with the existing powertrain.