ERAM - My simplistic understanding and questions

["Swanson, Robert" <rswanson@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Yes, I've page-downed through most of this "discussion", but a thought
popped into my mind this morning and I can't get it out.

In simplistic terms, why can't you think of this device as an "active"
free-flow intake?  Doesn't a free-flowing intake system allow the engine to
make more power without adding "power" at the beginning (one of the
discussion point was how you can get XX more horsepower by adding YY watts.
Isn't a free-flow intake getting XX additional hp out by adding 0 watts?).

So, instead of redesigning the intake to rid it of constrictions, can't you
add flow by an active fan?  If properly designed I could probably fall for
this line of argument. It seems like it would be theoretically less
efficient than a proper redesign, but could be cheaper to implement. 

This would also explain why you can get gains from a cheap Honda (lowest
common denominator) easier than an M-car (excellent design).  The proper
test of this theory would be on the BMW with the most constricted intake
(you experts out there tell me what it is, I have no clue), not on an M5 or
M3 that is more closely optimal.  That way the gains should be
proportionally higher/more easily measured.

Someone please explain (in layman's terms) what is wrong with my line of
thinking.  If there's nothing amiss, someone test this device an asthmatic
BMW.

Thanks for your patience.

Bob Swanson
'91 535i (no I don't want an ERAM, I just want to understand.)
email: rswanson@domain.elided

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