Internal combustion engine with multiple independently rotating crankshafts and common output shaft

摘要

A multi-cylinder internal combustion engine for a wheeled vehicle is divided into at least two power producing sub-units designated primary and secondary sub-units. The primary sub-unit operates during all powered movement of the vehicle. The secondary sub-unit is activated only when additional power is needed. When inactive, no fuel is delivered to the secondary sub-unit, and there is no movement of its components. Each sub-unit has its own crankshaft, and the crankshafts are connected by a clutch mechanism interactive with a single output shaft that delivers power to the wheels of the vehicle.