Valve spring retainer including a lubricating oil collector

Abstract

A valve spring retainer for an internal combustion engine includes a body having a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange. The upper portion includes a first wall and a recessed lip. The first wall extends at least partially axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange. The first wall and the radial flange together define an open reservoir for receiving and retaining oil therein. The recessed lip extends at least partially radially inward from the outer end of the first wall toward the central axis of the first opening. The recessed lip extends over a portion of the reservoir defined by the first wall and the radial flange.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of UK Patent Application No. 2018089.9, filed on 17 November 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to lubrication devices and methods for internal combustion engine systems.

[0004] background

[0005] An internal combustion engine system includes intake and exhaust valves for guiding fresh air and combustion gases into and out of the combustion cylinders. The valves are typically located in the engine's cylinder head, above the combustion cylinders, and within an enclosed space between the top of the engine block and the valve cover. The valves engage with rocker arms extending from the camshaft of the internal combustion engine system, and the rocker arms control the actuation of the valves.

[0006] Overview

[0007] In some systems, the rocker arm also supplies lubricant to the valve to reduce friction and wear, and to prevent valve springs, seals, and other moving parts from seizing. The lubricant is released from the rocker arm under low pressure and distributed through the valve's movement during engine operation. However, the relative position of the valves within the enclosed space can lead to uneven lubricant distribution, which may result in some valves lacking lubricant during engine start-up and during prolonged periods when the engine is running at low or idling speeds.

[0008] One embodiment of this disclosure relates to a valve spring retainer. The valve spring retainer includes a body having a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange. The upper portion includes a first wall and a recessed lip. The first wall extends at least partially axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange. The first wall and the radial flange together define an open reservoir for receiving and retaining oil therein. The recessed lip extends at least partially radially inward from the outer end of the first wall toward the central axis of the first opening. The recessed lip extends over a portion of the reservoir defined by the first wall and the radial flange.

[0009] In some embodiments, the recessed lip defines a second opening that is substantially coaxial with the first opening.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the second opening is larger than the inner diameter of the first opening.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first wall and the recessed lip together define a curved wall that extends from the radial flange across an angle in the range of approximately 60° to 120°.

[0012] In some embodiments, the upper portion further includes a lower protrusion that extends axially away from the recessed lip.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first wall includes a tapered extension that extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first wall extends axially away from the outer periphery of the radial flange, and the recessed lip includes a tapered extension extending radially inward from the distal end of the first wall.

[0015] In some embodiments, the body further includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and the inner radial surface of the lower portion, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to the first opening.

[0016] In some embodiments, the upper portion is made of a different material than the lower portion.

[0017] Another embodiment of this disclosure relates to a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve, a valve spring, and a retainer. The valve includes a valve head and a valve stem extending away from the valve head. The valve spring is disposed on the valve stem. The retainer is coupled to the valve stem and engages one end of the valve spring. The retainer defines a reservoir. The open end of the reservoir faces away from the valve spring. The retainer includes a recessed lip covering a portion of the reservoir. In some embodiments, the valve assembly further includes a pair of clamps and a valve guide. The pair of clamps are disposed between the retainer and the valve stem and engage the retainer with the valve stem. The valve guide is disposed on the valve stem and slidably engages with the valve stem.

[0018] In some embodiments, the recessed lip extends radially inward from the outer diameter of the retainer toward the central axis of the retainer.

[0019] In some embodiments, the retainer defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange, wherein the recessed lip defines a second opening substantially coaxial with the first opening and having a larger diameter than the first opening.

[0020] In some embodiments, the retainer further includes a radial flange and a tapered extension that extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the retainer.

[0021] In some embodiments, the retainer further includes a radial flange and a first wall extending axially from the outer periphery of the radial flange, wherein the recessed lip includes a tapered extension extending radially inward from the distal end of the first wall.

[0022] In some embodiments, the retainer further includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and an inner radial surface of the retainer, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to a first opening defined by the inner radial surface.

[0023] Another embodiment of this disclosure relates to an engine. The engine includes a cylinder block having a plurality of cylinders and a valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve, a valve spring, and a retainer. The valve is configured to control the delivery of fresh air to the plurality of cylinders. The valve spring at least partially surrounds the valve. The retainer connects the valve spring to the valve and defines a reservoir having an open end opposite to the valve spring. The retainer includes a recessed lip covering a portion of the reservoir.

[0024] In some embodiments, the recessed lip extends radially inward from the outer diameter of the retainer toward the central axis of the retainer.

[0025] In some embodiments, the retainer defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange, wherein the recessed lip defines a second opening substantially coaxial with the first opening and having a larger diameter than the first opening.

[0026] In some embodiments, the retainer further includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and an inner radial surface of the retainer, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to a first opening defined by the inner radial surface.

[0027] It should be recognized that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and the additional concepts discussed in more detail below are contemplated as part of the subject matter disclosed herein. Specifically, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appended at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as part of the subject matter disclosed herein. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0029] The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only a few embodiments according to this disclosure and are therefore not intended to limit its scope; the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail using the drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a partial view of an overhead valve arrangement for an internal combustion engine system according to an embodiment.

[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial view of the spring portion of the top-mounted valve assembly.

[0032] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Another partial view of the overhead valve assembly.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a partial view of an overhead valve device for an internal combustion engine system according to another embodiment.

[0034] Figure 5 It is located in Figure 4 A partial view of the valve assembly on the high side of the overhead valve device.

[0035] Figure 6 This is a top view of the valve spring retainer according to an embodiment.

[0036] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of the valve spring retainer.

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A partial side cross-sectional view of the valve spring retainer.

[0038] Figure 9 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0039] Figure 10 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0040] Figure 11 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0041] Figure 12 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0042] Figure 13 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0043] Figure 14 This is a side cross-sectional view of the valve spring retainer assembly according to an embodiment.

[0044] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A side cross-sectional view of the valve spring retainer assembly.

[0045] Figure 16 This is a side cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer according to another embodiment.

[0046] Figure 17 This is a side cross-sectional view of a multi-piece valve spring retainer according to an embodiment.

[0047] Throughout the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, similar symbols generally identify similar parts unless the context otherwise requires. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that aspects of this disclosure, as generally described herein and shown in the drawings, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated and constitute a part of this disclosure.

[0048] Detailed description

[0049] The embodiments described herein generally relate to methods and apparatus for lubricating intake / exhaust valve assemblies of an internal combustion engine system. Specifically, the embodiments described herein generally relate to valve spring retainers for capturing lubricant (e.g., lubricating oil) during engine operation, retaining oil after engine power is cut off, and redistributing oil to the valve assembly during engine start-up and operation.

[0050] In various conventional internal combustion engine systems, a valve mechanism is provided to control the flow of fresh air and combustion gases into and out of the combustion cylinder (e.g., the combustion chamber). The valve mechanism comprises multiple valve assemblies that are continuously lubricated to ensure proper operation and extend their service life. Oil is distributed to each valve assembly via rocker arms, which engage and control the actuation of the valve assembly. Figure 1 As shown in valve assembly 10, oil is introduced into a closed space defined by a valve cover or rocker arm housing (not shown), located between the valve cover and the engine block. Oil enters the closed space via a supply system 11, which includes a rocker arm 14, a rocker arm 16 (e.g., a lever), and a crosshead 18. The rocker arm 16 is driven by a camshaft and oscillates at high speed about the rocker arm 14 to open and close valve assembly 100 during engine operation. Figure 1 As shown, the first end of the rocker arm 16 is positioned near the camshaft, and the second opposite end of the rocker arm 16 engages the crosshead 18. The crosshead 18 transmits the swinging motion of the rocker arm 16 to the top of the valve assembly 100, causing at least one valve assembly 100 to open.

[0051] Figure 1 The path of the oil from the rocker arm shaft to the crosshead 18 is shown. (As shown) Figure 1As shown, oil is introduced into the first set of channels 12 in the rocker shaft, and then through the second set of channels 13 in the rocker arm 16 toward the rocker nose 20 portion of the rocker arm 16. Figure 1 As shown, a limiter 22 is provided in the rocker nose 20 to measure the flow rate of oil to the crosshead 18. When the rocker arm 16 swings (to open and close the valve assembly 100), oil on the operating surfaces of the rocker nose 20 and the crosshead 18 splashes around the interior of the valve cover and across the surface of the crosshead 18. Some of the splashed oil lands on the valve spring retainer 104 and on the valve spring 102 of each valve assembly 100, which connects the valve spring 102 to the valve stem 106.

[0052] For each valve assembly 100, oil is distributed on the valve spring 102 and / or retainer 104 and onto the valve stem 106 and valve stem seal 108. The valve stem seal 108 meter the amount of oil allowed to flow down the valve stem to lubricate the valve stem and the guide interface between the valve guide 107 and the valve stem 106 (e.g., the valve guide 107 positions and supports the valve to ensure proper contact with the valve seat within the engine cylinder head). Figure 2 As shown, valve guide 107 slidably engages with valve stem 106, allowing the valve to move through valve guide 107. The lower end of valve stem seal 108 engages with and is coupled to the upper end of valve guide 107. The upper end of valve stem seal 108 slidably and sealingly engages with valve stem 106. Valve stem seal 108 requires a continuous lubrication supply to ensure proper operation. Figure 2 As shown, oil collected on the upper surface of the valve spring retainer 104 flows along the valve stem 106 through an axially extending gap in the valve collet 24 to lubricate the valve stem seal 108. When the valve spring 102 is compressed and extended, splashed oil can also find a path through the gap in the valve spring 102 to reach the valve stem seal 108.

[0053] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the distribution of oil on each valve assembly 100 varies depending on the position of the valve assembly 100 within the enclosed space. For example, in Figure 2In the V-type engine configuration shown (or for an inline engine in an angled configuration or any configuration in which the cylinder axis is not vertical), valve assemblies 100 are positioned along an inclined plane. Due to the effect of gravity on the splashed oil, this arrangement causes some valve assemblies 100 to receive more oil than others. Specifically, valve assemblies 100 located at a lower position (e.g., the low-side valve assembly below the rocker nose 20) receive more oil than valve assemblies 100 located at a higher, greater height within the enclosed space (e.g., the high-side valve assembly). In other words, gravity causes oil falling onto the surface of the crosshead 18 (see...) Figure 1 The lubricant preferentially falls onto valve assembly 100 at the lower end of the enclosed space. This problem is particularly problematic during engine start-up (e.g., when the lubrication system is starting), when engine oil temperature drops, and during engine idling. Under these operating conditions, valve speed and oil viscosity limit the amount of lubrication supplied to some valve assemblies 100, depriving those valve assemblies of oil and reducing valve assembly performance and overall service life.

[0054] The valve spring retainer structure disclosed herein alleviates the aforementioned lubrication problems by trapping some oil in a reservoir within the valve spring retainer during engine operation and redistributing the trapped oil to the valve stem and other components of the valve assembly in response to valve movement. In one embodiment, the valve spring retainer comprises a reservoir in the form of an open-topped cup opposite to the valve spring. The reservoir is formed at the intersection between a radial flange portion of the valve spring retainer and a curved and / or angled recessed lip extending radially inward from the outer peripheral region of the radial flange. During engine operation, oil distributed to the valve spring retainer by the movement of the rocker arm and crosshead is trapped (e.g., collected) in the reservoir. After the engine is turned off, this trapped oil remains in the reservoir. Upon restarting the engine (e.g., when actuating the valve), as the valve accelerates into the open position, the oil in the reservoir is ejected along the valve stem direction through the recessed lip, providing splash lubrication to the valve stem seal and other components of the valve assembly. Among other benefits, improved lubrication of valve stem seals and other components of the valve assembly increases the service life of these components and the uptime of the internal engine combustion system. Furthermore, the enhanced lubrication performance relies on valve movement to redistribute oil, eliminating the need for separate oil delivery lines / flow lines to direct flow to each individual valve assembly.

[0055] The various concepts described above and discussed in more detail below can be implemented in any of a variety of ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

[0056] The various numerical values ​​provided herein are for reference only. Unless otherwise stated, all figures used in the specification and claims to indicate quantities of performance, parameters, conditions, etc., should be understood to be modified by the term "approximately" in all cases. Therefore, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification and appended claims are approximate values. Any numerical parameter should be interpreted at least according to the number of significant digits reported and by applying common rounding techniques. When the term "approximately" is used before a numerical expression (e.g., quantity and / or amount including range), it indicates an approximate value of a variation (+) or (-) 10%, 5%, or 1%.

[0057] As those skilled in the art will understand, for any and all purposes, particularly for the purpose of providing a written description, all scopes disclosed herein also include any and all possible subscopes and combinations thereof. Any listed scope can be readily identified as sufficiently descriptive and such that the same scope can be decomposed into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, tenths, etc. As a non-limiting example, each scope discussed herein can be readily decomposed into a lower third, a middle third, and an upper third, etc. Those skilled in the art will also understand that all language, such as “up to,” “at least,” “greater than,” “less than,” etc., includes the listed numbers and refers to a scope that can subsequently be decomposed into subscopes as described above. Finally, as those skilled in the art will understand, a scope includes each individual component.

[0058] Figures 4-5 A portion of a valve mechanism 52 for an internal combustion engine system (shown as engine 50) according to at least one embodiment is shown. Engine 50 includes an engine block (shown as cylinder block 26) having a pair of V-shaped cylinders 28 arranged on either side of the cylinder block 26. Engine 50 can be a diesel engine, gasoline engine, natural gas engine, dual-fuel engine, biodiesel engine, E85 engine, flexible fuel engine, gas turbine, or another type of internal combustion engine or drive. In various embodiments, engine 50 can be a high-horsepower (HHP) engine, such as an engine capable of providing power in the range of 500 hp to 4500 hp or greater. Engine 50 can be used to power a generator (e.g., generator set, etc.), alternator, etc., for generating electricity (e.g., power). In another embodiment, engine system 50 can be used to power a truck, boat, locomotive, or another type of vehicle (e.g., on-road or off-road vehicle). In yet another embodiment, engine system 50 can be used in industrial applications to drive a pump, hydraulic system, or another type of system.

[0059] Although the concept of this disclosure is described with reference to a V-shaped engine block configuration, embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to a single engine type / design. For example, the same valve assembly configuration and valve spring retainer structure can be used for any other engine type, including but not limited to inline engines arranged at an angle, or any engine type in which the central axes of one or more cylinders are tilted at an angle (e.g., not vertical).

[0060] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 A partial view of a single overhead valve assembly 200 of the valve mechanism 52 shown. The valve assembly 200 may be an inlet valve configured to control the delivery of fresh air to the combustion cylinder or an outlet valve configured to expel gases from the combustion cylinder and exit the engine 50. Figure 5 In one embodiment, valve assembly 200 includes valve 202, valve seal 204, valve spring 206, and valve spring retainer assembly 208. Valve 202 includes a valve head (see...). Figure 1 The valve assembly 500 consists of a valve head 109 and a valve stem 203 (e.g., a rod, cylinder, etc.) extending away from the valve head. The outer end of the valve stem 203 engages with a crosshead 18 of the valve mechanism 52, which transmits force from the rocker arm 16 to actuate (e.g., open) the valve assembly 200. A valve seal 204 is sealingly engaged with the valve stem 203 and meteres the amount of oil allowed to flow down the valve stem from the valve mechanism 52 to lubricate the valve stem and guide interface.

[0061] The valve spring 206 applies a force to the valve stem 203 via the valve spring retainer assembly 208, causing the valve 202 to return to the closed position. For example... Figure 5 As shown, valve spring 206 is positioned around valve stem 203 between crosshead 18 and the upper surface of engine block and / or lower collar (not shown). Valve spring 206 is a helical spring surrounding valve stem 203. When valve 202 is in the closed position, valve spring retainer assembly 208 positions valve spring 206 relative to valve stem 203 and sets the compression of valve spring 206. Figure 5 As shown, the valve spring retainer assembly 208 is connected to the valve stem 203 and engages with the outer axial end 209 of the valve spring 206.

[0062] A valve spring retainer assembly 208 is located between the valve spring 206 and the crosshead 18. The valve spring retainer assembly 208 includes a valve spring retainer 300 and at least one retaining collet 210, which engages with the valve spring retainer 300 and the valve stem 203 and is disposed between the valve spring retainer 300 and the valve stem 203. The collet 210 is configured to securely connect the valve spring retainer 300 to the valve stem 203 and to position the valve spring retainer 300 axially along the valve stem 203. The collet 210 is located within a first opening 301 (e.g., a through-hole opening, etc.), which is defined by the valve spring retainer 300 at its closed end 303. In at least one embodiment, the retaining collet 210 includes gaps, grooves, and / or channels extending in an axial direction (e.g., substantially parallel to the valve stem 203) to allow oil to flow through the collet 210 and onto the valve seal 204 (see also...). Figure 2 ).like Figure 4 As shown, the valve spring retainer assembly 208 is positioned at an elevated location on the high-side valve assembly 200 within the enclosed space. In other embodiments, the valve spring retainer assembly 208 may be used on all valve assemblies of the valve mechanism 52.

[0063] like Figures 4-5 As shown, the valve spring retainer 300 includes a body 302 that defines an open reservoir 304 configured to capture and retain (e.g., store) a volume of oil therein. The open end 306 of the reservoir 304 faces away from the valve spring 206 and toward the crosshead 18. Figure 4 As shown, the substantially circular opening, designated as the second opening 308, at the open end 306 of the valve spring retainer 300 has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the valve stem 203. The open end 306 of the reservoir 304 is located directly below the crosshead 18 to receive some of the splashed oil distributed on the upper surface of the crosshead 18 during engine operation.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown, the valve spring retainer 300 also includes a curved recessed lip 310. The recessed lip 310 forms part of the reservoir 304 and extends radially inward toward the valve stem 203 at the open end 306 of the valve spring retainer 300. During engine operation, the rocker arm 16 (see...) Figure 4The crosshead 18 and valve stem 203 are driven toward the open position in an axial direction toward the combustion cylinder (e.g., substantially parallel to the axis of valve stem 203). The acceleration of the valve assembly 200 toward the open position overcomes the acceleration due to gravity, forcing the trapped volume of oil upward toward the open end 306 of the valve spring retainer 300 and onto the recessed lip 310. The recessed lip 310 redirects the oil toward the valve stem 203 in at least a partial radial direction. From the valve stem 203, oil can pass through the gap in the retaining chuck 210 and / or the gap between the retaining chuck 210 and the valve stem 203 to lubricate the valve seal 204.

[0065] Figures 6-8 Top and side cross-sectional views of a valve spring retainer 300 according to an example embodiment are shown. The valve spring retainer body 302 includes a lower portion 312 (e.g., a first portion, etc.) and an upper portion 314 (e.g., a second portion, etc.). The lower portion 312 defines a radial flange 316 configured to engage with the outer axial end 209 of the valve spring 206 (see also...). Figures 4-5 ).like Figures 6-7 As shown, the radial flange 316 extends radially away from the central axis 318 of the body 302 and defines a substantially flat surface oriented perpendicular to the central axis 318.

[0066] The lower portion 312 defines a first opening 301, which is sized to receive a retaining clamp 210 therein (see also...). Figures 4-5 ).like Figure 7 As shown, a first opening 301 is centrally located along the lower portion 312 and extends axially through the radial flange 316. The central axis 319 of the first opening 301 may be substantially collinear with the central axis 318 of the body 302. The inner wall of the first opening 301 is tapered, such that the inner diameter of the first opening 301 is smaller at the lower axial end of the lower portion 312 than at the upper axial end of the lower portion 312. The lower portion 312 may also include a protrusion 320 extending axially away from the lower surface of the radial flange 316 to center the valve spring 206 relative to the lower portion 312. Figure 7 As shown, the protrusion 320 is substantially coaxial with the radial flange 316.

[0067] The upper portion 314 defines a recessed lip 310 for the valve spring retainer 300, which throws oil from the reservoir 304 toward the valve stem during valve actuation. Figures 7-8As shown, the upper portion 314 extends at least partially axially away from the outer peripheral edge 322 of the radial flange 316 and extends radially inward toward the central axis 319 of the first opening 301. The outer end of the upper portion 314 (e.g., a recessed lip 310) defines a second opening 308, which is positioned substantially coaxially with the first opening 301 (e.g., the central axis 319 of the first opening 301 and the central axis of the second opening 308 are substantially collinear). The radial flange 316 and the upper portion 314 together define an open reservoir 304. Figures 6-7 As shown, the inner diameter 324 of the second opening 308 is larger than the maximum inner diameter 325 of the first opening 301 to provide a radial clearance through which splashed oil can enter the reservoir 304. In other embodiments, the second opening 308 may be formed in an elliptical shape or another suitable shape to maximize the capture of splashed oil.

[0068] exist Figures 6-8 In this embodiment, the upper portion 314 is a curved (e.g., bow-shaped) wall. A first end (e.g., the lower end) of the curved wall extends axially away from the radial flange 316 in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the upper surface 326 of the radial flange 316. The upper portion 314 curves radially inward toward the central axis 319 of the first opening 301 between the first end and the recessed lip 310. The curved wall may have an approximately constant radius of curvature to smooth the transition between the curved wall and the recessed lip 310 and to facilitate the ejection of captured oil toward the valve stem 203.

[0069] The lubrication performance of the valve spring retainer 300 will vary depending on the geometry of the upper portion 314. Figure 8 In one embodiment, the curved wall extends across an angle 328 of approximately 85° to the outer edge (e.g., a recessed lip 310). However, referring to... Figures 6-8 The geometry of the curved wall shown and described should not be considered limiting. In various embodiments, the curved wall extends from the upper surface 326 of the radial flange 316 across an angle ranging from approximately 60° to 120°, or another suitable angle. For example, Figure 9 A valve spring retainer 400 with a curved wall is shown, which extends from the upper surface of the radial flange across an angle 428 of approximately 120°, such that the outer edge 430 of the curved wall (e.g., a recessed lip 410) bends back (axially back) toward the upper surface of the radial flange. The hook-shaped outer edge 430 of the recessed lip 410 helps prevent trapped oil from escaping from the reservoir 404 through the open end of the reservoir 404 during valve assembly actuation.

[0070] Figure 10A valve spring retainer 500 is shown, which has a recessed lip 510 extending from the upper surface of a radial flange across an angle 528 of approximately 60°. Among other benefits, Figure 10 The valve spring retainer 500 shown is designed to catch splashed oil from the crosshead due to a large second opening 508 at the open end 506 of the reservoir 504.

[0071] The design of the upper portion of the valve spring retainer is not limited to curved walls and / or cylindrical walls. For example, Figure 11 Another embodiment of a valve spring retainer 600 for an intake / exhaust valve assembly is shown, wherein the upper portion 614 includes a straight section and a curved section. The lower portion 612 of the valve spring retainer 600 is similar to that in the reference diagram. Figures 6-8 The lower portion 312 described is the same as or similar to the described portion. The upper portion 614 of the valve spring retainer 600 includes a tapered extension 632 that extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening 601. The tapered extension 632 forms an angle 634 of approximately 70° with respect to the upper surface of the radial flange. The upper portion 614 also includes a curved, recessed lip 610 extending radially inward from the outer end of the tapered extension 632. Figure 11 In one embodiment, the inner radial surface of the recessed lip 610 forms an angle 636 of approximately 110° relative to the upper surface of the radial flange. The tapered extension 632 and the radial flange together form a tapered oil receiving bowl 604. In other embodiments, the angles 634 and 636 of the tapered extension 632 and the recessed lip 610 may be different.

[0072] Figure 12 Another embodiment of a valve spring retainer 700 for an intake / exhaust valve assembly is shown. The valve spring retainer 700 is similar to the reference numeral 700. Figures 6-8 The valve spring retainer 300 described also includes a lower protrusion 738 extending downward (e.g., axially away from the recessed lip 710) from the recessed lip 710, such that the thickness of the upper portion 714 at the recessed lip 710 is greater than the thickness of a first end of the upper portion 714 (i.e., the first end where the upper portion 714 engages with the radial flange). The lower protrusion 738, together with the curved wall, defines a smooth inner surface 740 having a first radius along the curved wall prior to the protrusion 738 and a second radius smaller than the first radius at the intersection of the curved wall and the protrusion 738. In other embodiments, the inner surface 740 may be discontinuous at the intersection of the curved wall and the protrusion 738 (e.g., the inner surfaces may intersect with a sharp transition or angle).

[0073] Figure 13Another embodiment of a valve spring retainer 800 for an intake / exhaust valve assembly is shown. Similarly, the lower portion 812 of the valve spring retainer 800 is similar to that in the reference design. Figures 6-8 The lower portion 312 of the valve spring retainer 300 is identical to that described. The upper portion 814 of the valve spring retainer 800 includes a first wall 842 extending axially from the outer periphery of the radial flange and a second wall 844 extending at least partially radially inward from the distal end of the first wall 842. Figure 13 As shown, the second wall 844 forms a tapered extension. This tapered extension is angled along the axial direction such that the distal end 846 of the second wall 844 is closer to the upper surface of the radial flange than the proximal end 848 of the second wall 844 (e.g., the proximal end 848 where the second wall 844 engages with the first wall 842). The second wall 844 forms a funnel-shaped extension toward the open reservoir 804 of the valve spring retainer 800. Any oil falling onto the outer surface of the second wall 844 will be guided into the open reservoir 804 formed between the radial flange, the first wall 842, and the second wall 844. In various embodiments, the angle formed between the first wall 842 and the second wall 844 may be different.

[0074] Figures 14-15 A cross-sectional view of a valve spring retainer assembly 900 according to another example embodiment is shown. The valve spring retainer assembly 900 includes a valve spring retainer 902 and a retaining clamp 904 configured to engage the valve spring retainer 902 to a valve stem. The valve spring retainer 902 is similar to that shown in the reference figure. Figure 9 The valve spring retainer 400 is described, but also includes channels and / or grooves located in the body 906 of the valve spring retainer 902 to facilitate the direct transfer of captured oil from the reservoir 908 to the valve seal. Figure 15 As shown, the valve spring retainer 902 includes at least one channel 910 that extends at an angle between the reservoir 908 and a first opening 912 in the valve spring retainer 902. More specifically, the channel 910 extends from the upper surface of a radial flange, through a lower portion 914 of the valve spring retainer 902, axially downward and radially inward toward the first opening 912. An opening 916 at the first end of the channel 910 is located at a central radial position in the upper surface of the radial flange. An opening 918 at the second end of the channel 910 is located along the inner surface of the first opening 912. Figure 15 As shown, channel 910 is fluidly connected to groove 920 extending circumferentially along the inner surface of first opening 912. As... Figure 14 As shown, the channel 910 and the groove 920 guide oil from the upper portion of the reservoir 908 to the axially extending gap 922 (e.g., void, space, etc.) in the retainer 904.

[0075] like Figure 14 As shown, channel 910 allows oil to be directly transferred from reservoir 908 toward the valve stem and valve seal. Any trapped oil within reservoir 908 exceeding a storage threshold (e.g., between the lower oil level line 924 and the higher oil level line 926) will be drained from reservoir 908 through channel 910. Among other benefits, the combination of channel 910 and recessed lip 928 improves oil transfer from reservoir 908 to valve seal compared to the function of recessed lip 928 alone.

[0076] In various embodiments, the number, size, location, and shape of the channels 910 and / or grooves 920 may differ. For example, Figure 16 It shows something similar to the reference. Figure 13 An embodiment of the valve spring retainer 1000 described in the description of the valve spring retainer 800. For example... Figure 16 As shown, the valve spring retainer 1000 includes a channel 1010 extending through both the upper portion 1014 and the lower portion 1016 of the valve spring retainer body 1002. Specifically, the channel 1010 extends through a second wall section of the upper portion 1014. Advantageously, the channel 1010 provides a second flow path for oil to fall onto the outer surface of the upper portion 1014 to enter the reservoir 1008. In another embodiment, the portion of the channel 1010 extending through the second wall section may have a different geometry than the portion of the channel 1010 extending through the lower portion 1016. In yet another embodiment, the number of channels 1010 extending through the lower portion 1016 may differ from the number of channels 1010 extending through the upper portion 1014.

[0077] refer to Figures 4-16 The valve spring retainer described can be formed from various materials. For example, the valve spring retainer can be forged, machined, or otherwise formed as a single integral piece from heat-treated carbon steel or other suitable materials. In another embodiment, the valve spring retainer can be made from multiple pieces of material joined together. For example, Figure 17A two-piece valve spring retainer 1100 according to an embodiment is shown, wherein an upper portion 1114 and a lower portion 1112 are formed separately. The lower portion 1112 may be forged and / or machined from a solid piece of steel or another suitable material. The upper portion 1114, forming the recessed lip and reservoir for the valve spring retainer 1100, may be forged separately from or otherwise formed from the lower portion 1112. The upper portion 1114 does not need to have the same structural material properties as the lower portion 1112, and therefore may be formed from a different material than the lower portion 1112. For example, the upper portion 1114 may be formed from injection-molded plastic, rubber, aluminum, or other suitable materials. The upper portion 1114 may be connected to the lower portion by press fit, shrink fit, welding, bonding (e.g., using a suitable adhesive product), threading, forging, and / or another suitable connecting operation. In one embodiment, the upper portion 1114 can be configured to refurbish an existing valve spring retainer, which allows for the reuse of valve spring retainers already installed on the engine.

[0078] It should be noted that the term "example" used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate possible examples, representations and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to mean that such embodiments must be particular or excellent examples).

[0079] As used herein, the term "substantially" and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and acceptable usage by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art upon reviewing this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of certain features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or irrelevant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter (e.g., within plus or minus five percent of a given angle or other value) are considered to be within the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0080] As used herein, the terms “link”, “connection”, etc., refer to the direct or indirect connection between two components. Such a connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such a connection can be achieved by the two components, or two components and any additional intermediate components, being integrally formed into a single unit, or by the two components, or two components and any additional intermediate components, being attached to each other.

[0081] It is important to note that the structures and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. While only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art upon reviewing this disclosure will readily recognize that many modifications (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of various elements, values ​​of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0082] While this specification contains numerous specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of any embodiment or the claimed content, but rather as descriptions of features characteristic of a particular implementation of a particular embodiment. Certain features described in the context of individual implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple implementations. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, or even originally claimed as such, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from the claimed combination, and the claimed combination may involve sub-combinations or variations thereof.

Claims

1. A valve spring retainer, comprising: The main body, the main body includes: The lower portion defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange, the radial flange being configured to engage with the outer axial end of the valve spring; and The upper portion includes: A first wall, the first wall extending at least partially axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange; and A recessed lip extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening from the outer end of the first wall. The radial flange and the upper portion together define an open reservoir configured to capture and retain a volume of oil. The recessed lip defines a second opening located at the open end of the reservoir through which oil enters the reservoir. The inner diameter of the second opening is greater than the maximum inner diameter of the first opening.

2. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The second opening is substantially coaxial with the first opening.

3. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The second opening forms an elliptical shape.

4. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The first wall and the recessed lip together define a curved wall that extends from the radial flange across an angle in the range of 60° to 120°.

5. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The upper portion also includes a lower protrusion that extends axially away from the recessed lip.

6. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The first wall includes a tapered extension that extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening.

7. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The first wall extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange, and the recessed lip includes a tapered extension extending radially inward from the distal end of the first wall.

8. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The body also includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and the inner radial surface of the lower portion, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to the first opening.

9. The valve spring retainer according to claim 1, wherein, The upper portion is made of a different material than the lower portion.

10. A valve assembly, comprising: A valve, the valve including a valve head and a valve stem extending away from the valve head; A valve spring, which is disposed on the valve stem; as well as A retainer, coupled to the valve stem and engaging one end of the valve spring, defines a reservoir configured to capture and retain a volume of oil, the open end of the reservoir facing away from the valve spring. The retainer defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange, the radial flange being configured to engage an outer axial end of the valve spring. The retainer further includes a first wall extending axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and a recessed lip extending at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening from the outer end of the first wall. The radial flange, the first wall, and the recessed lip together define the reservoir. The recessed lip defines a second opening located at the open end of the reservoir through which oil enters the reservoir, the inner diameter of the second opening being larger than the maximum inner diameter of the first opening.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The second opening forms an elliptical shape.

12. The valve assembly of claim 10, further comprising: A pair of clamps, the pair of clamps being disposed between the retainer and the valve stem and connecting the retainer to the valve stem; as well as A valve guide, which is disposed on the valve stem and slidably engaged with the valve stem.

13. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The second opening is substantially coaxial with the first opening.

14. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The first wall includes a tapered extension that extends axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and extends at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the retainer.

15. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The recessed lip includes a tapered extension that extends radially inward from the distal end of the first wall.

16. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The retainer also includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and an inner radial surface of the retainer, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to the first opening defined by the inner radial surface.

17. An engine comprising: A cylinder block having multiple cylinders; as well as Valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising: A valve configured to control the delivery of fresh air to one of the plurality of cylinders; A valve spring, the valve spring at least partially surrounding the valve; and A retainer connects the valve spring to the valve and defines a reservoir configured to capture and retain a volume of oil. The reservoir has an open end opposite to the valve spring. The retainer defines a radial flange and a first opening extending axially through the radial flange, the radial flange being configured to engage an outer axial end of the valve spring. The retainer also includes a first wall extending axially away from the outer peripheral edge of the radial flange and a recessed lip extending at least partially radially inward toward the central axis of the first opening from an outer end of the first wall. The radial flange, the first wall, and the recessed lip together define the reservoir. The recessed lip defines a second opening located at the open end of the reservoir through which oil enters the reservoir. The inner diameter of the second opening is greater than the maximum inner diameter of the first opening.

18. The engine according to claim 17, wherein, The second opening forms an elliptical shape.

19. The engine according to claim 17, wherein, The second opening is substantially coaxial with the first opening.

20. The engine according to claim 17, wherein, The retainer also includes an angled channel extending between the reservoir and an inner radial surface of the retainer, the channel fluidly connecting the reservoir to the first opening defined by the inner radial surface.

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