Novel American Engine Design
Page 48
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
AN unusual design of opposed-piston internal-combustion engine has been patented by a Mr. V. N. Norton, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.A. A feature is that one piston is twice the size of the other, with the smaller piston operating at twice the speed of its larger, opposite
number. This arrangement is made possible by a sliding valve which works in conjunction with the fuel-inlet and exhaust ports.
It is stated that power is developed throughout almost a complete revolution of the crankshaft and the exhaust valve remains open for 310° of each crankshaft revolution. The engine is claimed to be able to run on any solid or gaseous fuel in either spark-ignition or compressionignition forms.
The designer states that his engine permits slow and complete burning of the gases and eliminates the need for an exhaust silencer because of the almost complete lack of pulsation. Turbocharging can be applied, and a power output of 44 b.h.p. is claimed for a single-unit normally aspirated engine with a 4-in, bore and stroke dimension of the larger piston. Multiple units could be devised for automotive use.