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The article describes a concept of a non-invasive method for diagnosing the size of valve clearance in internal combustion engines, based on the analysis of engine surface vibration signals using artificial neural networks. The applicability of the method was tested on a single‑cylinder compression-ignition engine with a low power rating, which had an OHV timing gear, acting indirectly on the valves, and manual adjustment of valve clearance. The method uses as diagnostic signals the readings of vibration sensors, which record the acceleration of engine head movement as a function of the angle of rotation of the crankshaft, with pre-set valve clearance values measured in a cold condition. From among the signals recorded, components corresponding to the impact of rocker arms against valve stems were identified and low-pass filtered in order to eliminate measurement interference. A classifier of selected features of the signals processed was constructed using artificial neural networks. This classifier recognizes signals generated by engines with correct valve clearance as well as those with too much and too little valve clearance.
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