This is an introduction to VPython

Project #1

Using VPython , simulate a single cylinder 4 stroke gas engine. It should

• show the piston and connecting rod moving
• show the intake and exhaust valves opening and closing with appropriate timing
• show the crankshaft turning
• does not need to show details. simple (crude?) wire frames are good enough.
  In other words, it does not need to be fancy.
  (this is a exercise in graphics, not automotive engineering.)
• the spark plug is shown but not part of the animation.

The simulation can be 2D or 3D.

FYI: Search commons.wikimedia.org for "Four Stroke Engine".

Possible Animation

Animation does not need to be perfect or smooth. Start with the compression stroke.

1. compression stroke
   • both valves closed
   • piston the bottom of the cylinder
   • piston moves to the top of the cylinder
2. power stroke
   • both valves closed
   • piston at the top of the cylinder
   • piston moves to the bottom of the cylinder
3. exhaust stroke
   • exhaust valve open, intake valve closed
   • piston at the bottom of the cylinder
   • piston moves to the top of the cylinder
4. intake stroke
   • intake valve open, exhaust valve closed
   • piston at the top of the cylinder
   • piston moves to the bottom of the cylinder

The connecting rod goes up and down with the cylinder and turns the crank shaft.