Issues that effect the curve of the cycle.
  • The best curve might very well be a matter of many trade-offs and compromises.

  • The more gradual the transitions might lead to a smoother running motor but not have the best characteristics in other areas such as "breathing" and heat to kinetic energy efficiency.

  • The areas of the curve that determine the descent and lull might get tricky to determine what curve will be the best and will probably vary considerably from application to application.

  • I'm inclined to think that the exhaust portion (piston ascent) of the cycle can be hurried to allow for more time in the filling and power producing portions of the cycle. On the curve this would be showing the beginning of the exhaust stroke at something well beyond 180 degrees of mainshaft rotation.

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