The engine starting system allows frequent starts without drain on the battery or overheating of the starter motor. The system comprises a flywheel, or part of a composite flywheel assembly (S), which remains in motion when the engine has been stopped, by disengaging a clutch (K). When the engine has to be restarted the clutch is energised to engage, and the stored energy in the flywheel turns the engine (M) in order to start it. Clutch and flywheel may form part of the normal drive train or be attached to the opposite end of the engine. The flywheel is typically designed to run for 1 to 2 minutes with sufficient stored energy remaining at the end of this time to turn the engine. With the new arrangement the engine can be stopped whenever it is judged that a traffic hold up will last longer than a few seconds. Fuel economies in urban driving can be achieved by this method.
展开▼
