Otto cycle

noun

, Thermodynamics.

1. an idealization of the thermodynamic cycle of the internal combustion engine with air as the working substance: intake of air at atmospheric pressure, then adiabatic compression, then ignition with an increase of pressure and temperature at constant volume, then adiabatic expansion and performance of work, then a drop to atmospheric pressure at constant volume and a rejection of heat to the environment, then the exhaust of air at constant pressure.

Otto cycle

noun

1. an engine cycle used on four-stroke petrol engines ( Otto engines ) in which, ideally, combustion and rejection of heat both take place at constant volume Compare diesel cycle

Word History and Origins

Origin of Otto cycle¹

1885–90; named after Nikolaus August Otto, 1832–91, German engineer and inventor

Word History and Origins

Origin of Otto cycle¹

C19: named after Nikolaus August Otto (1832–91), German engineer

Example Sentences

In the ordinary "Otto-cycle" motor an explosion occurs once in every two revolutions of the crank.

From Project Gutenberg

The greater number of engines used in automobiles to-day are of the kind known as the Otto cycle, or four-cycle, engine.

From Project Gutenberg

Practically all motor-cycle engines work on the "Otto-cycle" principle.

From Project Gutenberg

Also the difference between Otto cycle and Diesel becomes slight as the compression ratios come closer together.

From Project Gutenberg

In the same period light and heavy oil engines have been developed, mostly using the Otto cycle (see Oil Engine).

From Project Gutenberg