New devices police engine speeds
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IWO NEW speed-control devices which were on display at Autoquip, the SMMT-organised parts and accessory exhibition, are res3ectively designed to limit engine speeds and control cruising ;peeds.
Lumenition prevents engines rom being over-revved, vhereas Speedomatic, from \utolec Automotive Products, is cruise-control device.
Designed to operate with the .umenition Optronic ignition deice, Lumenition limits engine peed by preventing high-ten ion ignition voltage from ppearing at the coil when the peed exceed the set limit.
The system will go into pro duction in April and be available for 4-, 6and 8-cylinder engines. Pre-set and adjustable types will be available, and the recommended retail price is £37.56 plus vat.
The Autolec Division of GA Stanley Palmer Ltd, offers its Speedomatic cruise control at approximately £130, including vat and fitting charge. Autolec stresses that the Speedomatic is not a do-it-yourself device, the nature of cruise controls making it safer for them to be fitted at approved centres. It can be fitted to any vehicle with a 12V electrical system.
When engaged, the Speedomatic compares the speed of the vehicle with the selected cruise speed and makes any necessary adjustments.
The system consists of five major parts: the sensor head, computer unit, vacuum control valve, mechanical servo system, and control switch. The sensor head transmits a signal to the computer which is directly proportional to road speed. When the switch is set to "engage", the signal being received at that instant is held in the computer memory. The computer supplies a voltage to the vacuum control valve which in turn supplies a vacuum to a servo connected to the accelerator linkage.
If speed tends to fall, increased voltage is applied to the vacuum control valve. Conversely, if speed rises, a decreased voltage is applied to the vacuum control valve, so varying throttle openings to maintain a set speed.