Water-Cooled Hydrogen Combustion Engine Patent Filed by Toyota

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【Summary】Toyota has filed a patent for a water-cooled hydrogen combustion engine, which includes water injection valves. The patent explains that the water can be injected either during the opening or closing of the intake valve. Toyota states that if water flows into the cylinder, it will evaporate if the droplets are small enough. This patent is for a hydrogen combustion engine, different from the Toyota Mirai's hydrogen fuel engine. Toyota showcased a concept car with this engine earlier this year.

FutureCar Staff Oct 05, 2023 9:22 AM PT

Water-Cooled Hydrogen Combustion Engine Patent Filed by Toyota

Toyota has recently filed a patent application for a unique engine design that incorporates water injection valves into the intake ports of the combustion chamber. This innovative concept was discovered by CarBuzz through the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

The patent details that the water can be injected into the engine either as the intake valve is opening or as it is closing, ensuring that it is not sprayed continuously. Toyota assures that if water enters the cylinder, it is not a concern as it will evaporate if the droplets are small enough. In the event that water reaches the crankcase, it may mix with the oil, but it is more likely to evaporate due to the internal pressure.

It is important to note that this specific patent is for a hydrogen fuel engine, but it differs from the unit found in the Toyota Mirai. Instead, it is a hydrogen combustion engine, which utilizes a completely different design. Essentially, this engine operates similarly to any other combustion engine, but it utilizes hydrogen gas to generate the necessary explosions. Toyota has even showcased a concept vehicle, the AE86 Concept, earlier this year, which features a hydrogen combustion engine.