What is the working principle of the engine starting system?
2 Answers
The working principle of the engine starting system is that the battery provides electrical energy, which is converted into mechanical energy by the starter under the control of the ignition switch and the starter relay. The starter then drives the engine flywheel ring gear and crankshaft to rotate, initiating the working cycle and enabling the engine to enter a self-sustaining operating state. The working process of the automobile starting system: 1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position with the key, powering the instrument panel. After a few seconds, the car enters the ready-to-start state; 2. Turn the ignition switch to the START position, connecting the battery and the starting system circuit; 3. The starter relay is energized; 4. After the starter is energized, the main shaft rotates under electromagnetic action; 5. The drive gear on the starter main shaft rotates, driving the engine flywheel and crankshaft to rotate; 6. Under normal circumstances, after a brief start, the engine can enter the automatic operating state.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I find the working principle of the engine starting system quite straightforward: When you turn the key to the start position, current flows from the battery, passes through the ignition switch, and activates a device called a relay. This thing acts like a middleman—it connects the starter motor's circuit, causing the starter to immediately engage. The small gear inside extends and meshes with the engine's large flywheel gear, spinning it rapidly to get the crankshaft moving. This drives the pistons up and down, triggering the ignition of the air-fuel mixture. Once the engine starts running on its own, the small gear retracts, and the starter motor stops working. If this process is sluggish or fails to start, it's likely due to a dead battery or corroded, aged wiring. These issues need prompt attention to avoid being stranded on the road. I've fixed this a few times and believe that regular battery maintenance can save a lot of trouble—after all, a failed start is the most frustrating thing.
