TIAX's patented control system for engines running in Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI)- or mixed-mode enables ultra-low emissions with up to a 15% improvement in efficiency over today's engines. TIAX's control system controls combustion through indirect means by using a predictive model. Control modes can be optimized for response time, efficiency, or emissions, among other outputs.
Accurate sensing of the start of combustion (SoC) is a major technical hurdle to HCCI performance so TIAX developed a patent-pending start of combustion sensing system. The TIAX SoC sensor system will use a combination of externally-mounted, industry-proven knock sensors and innovative, embedded software running on an existing engine control unit (ECU). Unlike unproven in-cylinder pressure transducers-- the current laboratory standard for determining the start of combustion-knock sensors already are under the hoods in millions of cars
The TIAX SoC sensor system's manufacturing, warranty, and maintenance costs are projected to be less than half that of comparable in-cylinder pressure transducers. Since the TIAX SoC sensor system does not protrude into the cylinder head, it neither affects the placement of valves, fuel injectors, or ignition devices, nor degrades due to exposure to extreme combustion temperatures and pressures.