Rocker arm for valve actuation

Abstract

The present invention provides an improved rocker arm system for actuating poppet valves in high performance internal combustion engines. The rocker arm provides journals extending from each side fitted to outboard bearing mounts to guide the motion of the rocker arm.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS[0001]This is a U.S. non-provisional application relating to and claiming the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 635,468, filed Dec. 13, 2004 and is a Continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11 / 302,181 filed Dec. 12, 2005.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates to the field of internal combustion engines, high performance and conventional manufactured engines in general use, pertaining to poppet valve operating systems, particularly rocker arm systems for valve actuation pivoting on a shaft, the rocker arm being actuated by push rods and a camshaft.[0004]2. Description of Background Information[0005]Internal combustion engines, including high performance engines and conventionally manufactured engines, having poppet valve systems actuated by rocker arms and push rods that operate at high engine speeds or having high dynamic forces within the va...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]Preferably, a spring rate function is developed for rocker arm beam portion on either side of the pivot portion. Initiating defection of rocker arm portion late in the valve opening sequence, storing energy like a spring, released as the cam opening is completed, in effect lofting the valve, increasing airflow into the cylinder. This is a potential benefit to valve actuation in certain applications.

[0014]Preferably, there is provision for setting valve lash clearance by means of a shim and / or spacer; eliminating the inertia mass of a screw adjustment fitting to the rocker arm body making connection with the push rod. Screw adjustments remain the most common alternative system in general use.

Problems solved by technology

These high engine speeds cause very high inertia forces and high amplitude vibration forces to react on rocker arms and valve system components.

This condition results because engine block and cylinder head castings are complicated with structure in the path areas where push rods operate.

The centered, narrow bearing width is not sufficient to stabilize and distribute high impact force.

Conditions occur where bearing edge loading cause material to yield a slight amount, enough to increase bearing radial clearance, allowing excess looseness, known to increase vibration amplitude, inducing discord of valve timing lift and performance.

Indeed, crack failures are common in the beam area near the push rod connection.

These described conditions require precautionary and costly rocker arm replacement after a short service time in performance engines.

Once initiated, spring surge creates valve movement disarray and failures.

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