Throttle

USPatent6518683

Throttlebody

Throttle body

Bmw e92 m3 engine3

Throttle Body JM

Throttle is a mechanism by which the flow of a fluid (usually air or fuel) is managed by an engine or other system. In the context of internal combustion engines, the throttle is a crucial component that regulates the amount of air entering the engine, influencing the engine's power and speed. The concept of throttling can also be applied more broadly to any system that controls the rate of energy transfer or material flow in a similar manner.

Overview

The throttle is found in various applications, including automotive engines, aircraft, motorcycles, and other machinery that relies on an internal combustion engine. In these systems, the throttle is typically connected to the accelerator pedal or a throttle lever, allowing the operator to control the speed of the engine. When the operator presses down on the accelerator, the throttle valve opens, allowing more air to flow into the engine. This increase in air flow results in more fuel being injected into the engine (in fuel-injected engines), leading to a higher power output and an increase in speed.

Function and Operation

The primary function of the throttle is to regulate engine power and speed. This is achieved by controlling the amount of air that enters the engine. In a fuel-injected engine, the throttle body is part of the air intake system and is situated between the air filter and the intake manifold. It consists of a butterfly valve that rotates within the throttle body to open or close the air passage. The position of this valve is controlled by the accelerator pedal in a car or the throttle lever in other types of machinery.

In carbureted engines, the throttle is part of the carburetor. It works on a similar principle, controlling the flow of air and fuel into the engine. However, in these systems, the air and fuel are mixed in the carburetor before entering the engine.

Electronic Throttle Control

Modern vehicles often use Electronic Throttle Control (ETC), also known as drive-by-wire. This system replaces the mechanical linkage between the accelerator pedal and the throttle valve with electronic sensors and actuators. The ETC system allows for more precise control over the throttle position, improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions, and enhancing the vehicle's overall performance.

Applications

While most commonly associated with automotive and other vehicular engines, throttle mechanisms are also used in various other contexts. For example, in industrial settings, throttles control the flow of gases and liquids in pipelines. In computing, "throttling" can refer to the management of data transmission rates or the control of processing power to prevent overheating.

Safety and Regulation

The throttle system is critical for the safe operation of any engine-powered vehicle or machinery. Malfunctioning throttle controls can lead to unintended acceleration or loss of power, posing significant safety risks. Consequently, regular maintenance and inspection of the throttle system are essential. In the automotive industry, regulations and standards are in place to ensure the safety and reliability of throttle systems, especially with the adoption of electronic throttle control systems.

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