Oil circuits and spool valves for selective control of variable valve lift systems

Abstract

A spool valve assembly operable for automatic control of oil flow includes: a housing; a spool valve configured to slide axially within the housing; a first inlet port on the housing configured to connect to a first oil passage, wherein the first oil passage is operable as an outlet of a first oil control valve; a second inlet port on the housing configured to connect to a second oil passage, wherein the second oil passage is operable as an outlet of a second oil control valve; a valve core outlet on the housing configured to connect to a third oil passage; and a return spring configured to return the spool valve to a rest position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to mechanisms for supporting different modes of an engine, and more specifically to mechanisms and components that enable the engine to effectively start / stop these modes. Background Technology

[0002] The 1.5-stroke engine brake system utilizes Variable Valve Actuation (VVA) technology. This system addresses the increasing demand for enhanced braking power when applied to exhaust valve control. Key functions include disabling the exhaust rocker and a dedicated engine brake rocker. The engine brake and exhaust rocker actuation mechanisms ensure dynamic control when the system is deactivated. In drive mode, the deactivated exhaust rocker behaves like a standard exhaust rocker. This is achieved by keeping the deactivated exhaust rocker latched, thus fully transmitting exhaust cam lift to the valve. Simultaneously, the mechanical seal housing the engine brake rocker remains disengaged. Therefore, brake lift is inactive. When needed, the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU) actuates the engine brake. Conventional engine brakes utilize only one compression-release event. The 1.5-stroke engine brake has two per revolution, increasing braking performance by up to 75%. To achieve this, the main exhaust rocker must be deactivated. When the main exhaust event is inactive, the valve is disconnected from the cam, and the engine brake seal engages. The system then transmits brake lift to the valve. The brake lift optimizes the amount of air in the cylinder at the start of each compression stroke and releases the compressed air. The 1.5-stroke engine braking system can be installed on any single overhead cam or double overhead cam engine architecture. The system can increase braking power by 75% at low speeds.

[0003] Cylinder deactivation systems are another type of VVA technology. Developed for medium and heavy-duty engines in response to the growing demand for cleaner and more efficient internal combustion engines, cylinder deactivation systems primarily feature the deactivation of the exhaust rocker and intake rocker. The intake and exhaust rocker actuation mechanisms are designed to ensure complete control of system dynamics in the deactivated state. In drive mode, the deactivation mechanisms are off, and the intake and exhaust deactivation rockers function as standard rockers, fully transmitting exhaust and intake cam lift to their respective valves. When needed, the vehicle's ECU actuates the cylinder deactivation system. In this mode, both rockers are deactivated and no longer deliver cam lift to the valves. As a result, the valves remain closed. Cylinder deactivation systems can be installed on any engine architecture. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a particular embodiment, a spool valve assembly is disclosed, operable for automatic control of oil flow. The spool valve assembly may include a housing. The spool valve assembly may also include a spool valve configured to slide axially within the housing. Additionally, the spool valve assembly may include: a first inlet port on the housing configured to connect to a first oil passage; and a second inlet port on the housing configured to connect to a second oil passage. In a particular embodiment, the first oil passage may operate as an outlet of a first oil control valve, and the second oil passage may operate as an outlet of a second oil control valve. Furthermore, the spool valve assembly may include a valve spool outlet on the housing configured to connect to a third oil passage. The spool valve assembly may also include a return spring configured to return the spool valve to a rest position.

[0005] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, a method is disclosed for switching the operation of an oil control circuit between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes. The method may include deactivating a first oil control valve and a second oil control valve associated with the oil control circuit. Deactivation of the first and second oil control valves may result in no oil flow in the first and second oil passages. In a particular embodiment, the first oil passage may be operable as an outlet of the first oil control valve, and the second oil passage may be operable as an outlet of the second oil control valve. The first oil passage may be connected to a first inlet port on the housing of a spool valve assembly associated with the oil control circuit. The second oil passage may be connected to a second inlet port on the housing of the spool valve assembly. In a particular embodiment, a third oil passage may be connected to a valve spool outlet on the housing of the spool valve assembly. The spool valve of the spool valve assembly may be configured to slide axially within the housing of the spool valve assembly in a rest position. The method may further include operating the oil control circuit in a first mode.

[0006] In a particular embodiment of the method of switching the operation of the oil control circuit between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the oil flow can pass between the second oil passage and the third oil passage based on the balanced pressure between the second oil passage and the third oil passage and associated with the spool valve assembly.

[0007] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of the oil control circuit between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the first mode may be a drive mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be disengaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be disengaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be disengaged.

[0008] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of an oil control circuit between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the method may further include activating a second oil control valve. In a particular embodiment, activation of the second oil control valve allows oil flow through a second oil passage. The second oil passage can then transfer the oil flow to a third oil passage. The method may also include operating the oil control circuit in a second mode.

[0009] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of the oil control circuit between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the second mode may be a cylinder deactivation (CDA) mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be disengaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be activated. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be activated.

[0010] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of the oil control circuit among multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the third mode may be an engine braking mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be engaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be engaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be disengaged.

[0011] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of an oil control circuit between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the method may further include activating a first oil control valve and a second oil control valve. Activation of the first oil control valve allows oil flow through a first oil passage, and activation of the second oil control valve allows oil flow through a third oil passage. One or more of the first or third oil passages can transmit oil flow to the third oil passage. The method may also include operating the oil control circuit in a fourth mode.

[0012] In a particular embodiment of the method for switching the operation of the oil control circuit among multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the fourth mode may be a full-start mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be engaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be engaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be engaged.

[0013] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, an oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes is disclosed. The oil control circuit may include a first oil control valve, a second oil control valve, a first oil passage operable as an outlet of the first oil control valve, a second oil passage operable as an outlet of the second oil control valve, a third oil passage, and a spool valve assembly. In a particular embodiment, the spool valve assembly may include: a housing; a spool valve configured to slide axially within the housing; a first inlet port on the housing configured to connect to the first oil passage; a second inlet port on the housing configured to connect to the second oil passage; a valve spool outlet on the housing configured to connect to the third oil passage; and a return spring configured to return the spool valve to a rest position.

[0014] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the oil control circuit may also be configured to deactivate the first oil control valve and the second oil control valve. Deactivation of the first and second oil control valves may result in no oil flow in the first and second oil passages. The oil control circuit may also be configured to operate in a first mode.

[0015] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, oil flow can pass between the second and third oil passages based on the balanced pressure between the second and third oil passages and associated with the spool valve assembly.

[0016] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the first mode may be a drive mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be disengaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be disengaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be disengaged.

[0017] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the oil control circuit may also be configured to deactivate the first oil control valve and the second oil control valve. Deactivation of the first oil control valve may result in no oil flow in the first oil passage. The oil control circuit may also be configured to activate the second oil control valve. Activation of the second oil control valve may allow oil flow through the second oil passage. In a particular embodiment, the second oil passage may allow oil flow to be transferred to a third oil passage. The oil control circuit may also be configured to operate in a second mode.

[0018] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the second mode may be a cylinder deactivation (CDA) mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be disengaged. The oil control circuit may be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be activated. The oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be activated.

[0019] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the oil control circuit may also be configured to activate a first oil control valve. Activation of the first oil control valve allows oil flow through a first oil passage. In a particular embodiment, the oil flow through the first oil passage may apply pressure to a spool valve to slide axially within the housing to a non-stationary position. Sliding the spool valve to the non-stationary position allows the oil flow through the first oil passage to be transmitted through a third oil passage. The oil control circuit may also be configured to deactivate a second oil control valve. Deactivation of the second oil control valve may result in no oil flow in the second oil passage. The oil control circuit may also be configured to operate in a third mode.

[0020] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the third mode may be an engine braking mode. In this particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake may be engaged. The oil control circuit may also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve may be engaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit may be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve may be disengaged.

[0021] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the oil control circuit may also be configured to activate a first oil control valve and a second oil control valve. Activation of the first oil control valve allows oil flow through a first oil passage, and activation of the second oil control valve allows oil flow through a third oil passage. One or more of the first or third oil passages may transmit oil flow to the third oil passage. The oil control circuit may also be configured to operate in a fourth mode.

[0022] In a particular embodiment of the oil control circuit configured to switch between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the fourth mode can be a full-start mode. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit can be associated with an engine brake. The engine brake can be engaged. The oil control circuit can also be associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation. The exhaust valve can be engaged. Additionally, the oil control circuit can be associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation. The intake valve can be engaged. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Other features and advantages of various embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the following:

[0024] Figure 1A A schematic three-dimensional diagram of the oil control circuit is shown.

[0025] Figure 1B shows a schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit.

[0026] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the slide valve assembly is shown.

[0027] Figure 2B A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the slide valve assembly is shown.

[0028] Figure 3 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in the first mode is shown.

[0029] Figure 4 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in the second mode is shown.

[0030] Figure 5 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in the third mode is shown.

[0031] Figure 6 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in the fourth mode is shown.

[0032] Figure 7A A schematic perspective view of the oil control circuit for controlling the brake and cylinder deactivation (CDA) of a 1.5-stroke engine is shown.

[0033] Figure 7B A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuitry used to control the brakes and cylinder deactivation (CDA) of a 1.5-stroke engine is shown.

[0034] Figure 8 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in drive mode is shown.

[0035] Figure 9 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in CDA mode is shown.

[0036] Figure 10 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuitry operating in a 1.5-stroke engine is shown.

[0037] Figure 11 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit operating in full start mode is shown.

[0038] Figure 12 A flowchart is shown as an example method for switching the oil control circuit between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes.

[0039] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are schematic rather than literal or precise; the components and aspects of the drawings may not necessarily be to scale. Furthermore, while the same reference numerals may designate corresponding parts in different views in many cases, the same parts may not always be assigned the same reference numerals in each view. Detailed Implementation

[0040] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, this document provides spool valve assemblies and oil control circuits, as well as related mechanisms, devices, and methods. For clarity, not all features of every actual implementation or embodiment may be described in this specification. Additionally, some aspects and features may be described at a higher level. Furthermore, features and aspects disclosed, shown, and / or clearly otherwise contemplated in certain particular configurations are fully contemplated as mixtures or combinations to produce any and all resulting configurations using features and aspects from any embodiment and / or configuration considered herein. Therefore, modifications, variations, adaptations, and / or combinations can be made to features and aspects to ensure that embodiments fully fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0041] Variable valve lift (“VVL”) systems allow switching between nominal, advance, delayed, valve open, and closed states. Therefore, the lift height and duration can be controlled. Embodiments disclosed herein provide an oil control circuit for a VVL system. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuit may include a spool valve assembly. As disclosed herein, the spool valve assembly can automatically control the oil flow based on the open or closed state of the oil control valve (“OCV”).

[0042] In certain implementations, numerous options such as engine braking (EB), cylinder deactivation (CDA), intake valve delayed closing (LIVC), and intake valve delayed opening (LIVO) can be enabled. Complex combinations of VVL options can also be enabled via the oil control circuitry. However, instead of increasing the number of oil control valves to one for each function, it is possible to reduce the number of oil control valves.

[0043] Traditional oil control circuits may use three oil control valves, each controlling a specific oil passage. With three oil control valves, the circuit can selectively control the flow rate of each of the three valves. In contrast, the oil control circuit disclosed herein may include two oil control valves.

[0044] Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of an oil control line 100 is shown. In a particular embodiment, the oil control line 100 may include a first oil control valve 110 and a second oil control valve 120. The first oil control valve 110 and the second oil control valve 120 may receive oil from an inlet channel 130. Additionally, the oil control line 100 may include a first oil passage 140, a second oil passage 150, and a third oil passage 160. The oil control line 100 may also include a spool valve assembly 170. The spool valve assembly 170 may be integrated downstream of the first oil control valve 110 and the second oil control valve 120.

[0045] Figure 1B A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control line 100 is shown. In a particular embodiment, the spool valve assembly 170 may have two inlet ports on the housing. In a particular embodiment, a first inlet port 171 may be between the spool valve 174 and the first oil control valve 110, while a second inlet port 172 may be between the spool valve 174 and the second oil control valve 120. In a particular embodiment, the first inlet port 171 may be connected to a first oil passage 140, and the second inlet port 172 may be connected to a second oil passage 150. A third oil passage 160 may be the outlet of the first oil control valve 110. The second oil passage 150 may be the outlet of the second oil control valve 120. In a particular embodiment, the spool valve assembly 170 may include an outlet 173 on the housing. The outlet 173 may be connected to the third oil passage 160.

[0046] Figure 2A A schematic diagram of the slide valve assembly 170 is shown. Figure 2BA schematic partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly 170 is shown. In a particular embodiment, the valve assembly 170 may include a valve 174. The valve 174 can normally close the first inlet port 171 of the first oil passage 140 and maintain the open connection between the second oil passage 150 and the third oil passage 160. In a particular embodiment, the valve assembly 170 may also include a valve return spring 175. The return spring 175 can be configured to open when the pressure on the first oil passage 140 exceeds a certain value, thereby allowing the valve 174 to slide axially within the housing. The sliding of the valve 174 can establish the connection between the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160. Simultaneously, the connection between the second oil passage 150 and the third oil passage 160 can be closed.

[0047] Figure 3 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control line 100 operating in a first mode is shown. In a particular embodiment, the oil control line 100 can operate in four different modes. The first mode can be the default state, in which both the first oil control valve 110 and the second oil control valve 120 are disconnected. In this mode, there may be no oil flow through all three oil passages. The second oil passage 150 and the third oil passage 160 can be connected by a spool valve to balance the pressure between the two oil passages.

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in the second mode is shown. From the default state (i.e., the first mode), the second oil control valve 120 can be activated. Activation of the second oil control valve 120 can bring oil to the already connected second oil passage 150 and third oil passage 160. Oil flow can be present in the first oil passage 140.

[0049] Figure 5 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in the third mode is shown. From the default state (i.e., the first mode), the first oil control valve 110 can be activated. Activation of the first oil control valve 110 can bring oil to the first oil passage 140. Subsequently, the increase in oil pressure from the first oil passage 140 can cause the spool valve 174 to slide axially, thereby opening the connection between the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160. Given... Figure 5 As illustrated, the spool valve 174 can move upwards, connecting the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160 while blocking the second oil passage 150. As a result, oil from the first oil passage 140 can also flow in the third oil passage 160. The second oil passage 150 can maintain its default pressure even without any oil flow.

[0050] Figure 6A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in a fourth mode is shown. In a particular embodiment, the fourth mode can be achieved by any of the previous modes (i.e., the first, second, and third modes). In a particular embodiment, both the first oil control valve 110 and the second oil control valve 120 can be actuated, thus allowing oil flow through all three oil passages. In a particular embodiment, the spool valve 174 can move upward, thereby connecting the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160 and blocking the second oil passage 150.

[0051] Figure 7A A schematic perspective view of the oil control circuitry for controlling the brake and cylinder deactivation (CDA) of a 1.5-stroke engine is shown. In a particular embodiment, the oil control circuitry 100 may be compatible with a control system for integrating the valve mechanism of the 1.5-stroke engine brake and cylinder deactivation. In a particular embodiment, the 1.5-stroke engine brake may require activation of the engine brake function and simultaneous deactivation of only the exhaust valve, while the CDA mode may require deactivation of both the intake and exhaust valves. In a particular embodiment, a first oil control valve 110 may be used for engine brake control, and a second oil control valve 120 may be used for CDA control. A first oil passage 140 may be a control passage for the engine brake rocker arm. A second oil passage 150 may be a control passage for the exhaust CDA rocker arm. A third oil passage 160 may be a control passage for the intake CDA rocker arm. Figure 7B A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit for controlling the brakes and cylinder deactivation (CDA) of a 1.5-stroke engine is shown. It can be seen that the spool valve 174 can be used for oil flow control.

[0052] In a particular implementation, the first mode may be associated with the driving mode. Figure 8 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in drive mode is shown. In drive mode, both the first oil control valve 110 (for engine brake control) and the second oil control valve 120 (for CDA control) can be disconnected. No oil flow may be present. The second oil passage 150 and the third oil passage 160 can be connected via spool valves to balance the pressure between the two oil passages. In a particular embodiment, the engine brake, exhaust CDA valve, and intake CDA valve can all be disconnected.

[0053] In a particular implementation, the second mode may be associated with the CDA mode. Figure 9A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in CDA mode is shown. A second oil control valve 120 (for CDA control) can be activated from the drive mode. Activation of the second oil control valve 120 can bring oil to the already connected second oil passage 150 and third oil passage 160. In a particular embodiment, the engine brake can be disengaged. Both the exhaust CDA valve and the intake CDA valve can be activated.

[0054] In a particular implementation, the third mode may be associated with a 1.5-stroke engine brake. Figure 10 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in a 1.5-stroke engine is shown. From the drive mode, a first oil control valve 110 (for engine brake control) can be activated. Activation of the first oil control valve 110 brings oil to a first oil passage 140. Subsequently, the increase in oil pressure from the first oil passage 140 causes a spool valve 174 to slide axially, thereby opening the connection between the first oil passage 140 and a third oil passage 160. Given... Figure 10 As illustrated, spool valve 174 can move upward, thereby connecting the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160 and blocking the second oil passage 150. As a result, oil from the first oil passage 140 can also flow in the third oil passage 160. The second oil passage 150 can maintain its default pressure even without any oil flow. In a particular embodiment, the engine brake can be engaged. The exhaust CDA valve can be engaged, while the intake CDA valve can be disengaged.

[0055] In certain implementations, the third mode can be associated with the full boot mode. The full boot mode can help extend functionality. Figure 11 A schematic partial cross-sectional top view of the oil control circuit 100 operating in full-start mode is shown. In a particular embodiment, full-start mode can be achieved via any previous mode (i.e., drive mode, CDA mode, and 1.5-stroke engine brake). In a particular embodiment, the first oil control valve 110 (for engine brake control) and the second oil control valve 120 (for CDA control) can both be actuated, thus allowing oil flow through all three oil passages. In a particular embodiment, the engine brake, exhaust CDA valve, and intake CDA valve can all be engaged. In a particular embodiment, the spool valve 174 can move upward, thereby connecting the first oil passage 140 and the third oil passage 160 and blocking the second oil passage 150.

[0056] Figure 12A flowchart 1200 illustrates an example method for switching the operation of an oil control circuit between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes. At step 1210, the oil control circuit can deactivate a first oil control valve and a second oil control valve associated with the oil control circuit, wherein deactivation of the first and second oil control valves results in no oil flow in the first and second oil passages, wherein the first oil passage operates as the outlet of the first oil control valve, wherein the second oil passage operates as the outlet of the second oil control valve, wherein the first oil passage is connected to a first inlet port on the housing of a spool valve assembly associated with the oil control circuit, wherein the second oil passage is connected to a second inlet port on the housing of the spool valve assembly, wherein a third oil passage is connected to a valve spool outlet on the housing of the spool valve assembly, and wherein the spool valve of the spool valve assembly, configured to slide axially within the housing of the spool valve assembly, is in a stationary position. At step 1220, the oil control circuit can operate in a first mode.

[0057] In step 1230, the oil control circuit can activate the second oil control valve, wherein the activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through the second oil passage, which in turn transmits the oil flow to the third oil passage. In step 1240, the oil control circuit can operate in a second mode.

[0058] At step 1250, the oil control circuit can activate the first oil control valve, wherein the activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through the first oil passage, wherein the oil flow through the first oil passage forces the spool valve to slide axially to a non-stationary position within the housing, wherein the sliding of the spool valve to the non-stationary position allows the oil flow through the first oil passage to be transmitted through the third oil passage. At step 1260, the oil control circuit can operate in the third mode.

[0059] At step 1270, the oil control circuit can activate a first oil control valve and a second oil control valve, wherein activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through a first oil passage, and activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through a third oil passage, and wherein one or more of the first or third oil passages transmit oil flow to the third oil passage. At step 180, the oil control circuit can operate in a fourth mode.

[0060] Where appropriate, certain implementation methods can be repeated. Figure 12 One or more steps of the method. Although this disclosure describes and illustrates that they occur in a particular order. Figure 12 The method involves specific steps, but this disclosure contemplates that they may occur in any suitable order. Figure 12 Any suitable steps of the method. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes and illustrates methods for including... Figure 12This disclosure presents an example method for switching oil control circuitry between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes, including any suitable steps, where appropriate, that may include... Figure 12 All, some, or none of the steps in the method Figure 12 The steps of the method. Furthermore, although this disclosure describes and illustrates the implementation... Figure 12 The method may refer to a specific part, mechanism, or component of a specific step, but this disclosure contemplates the execution of... Figure 12 Any suitable step of the method, any suitable part, mechanism or component, or any suitable combination.

[0061] For illustrative and descriptive purposes, the foregoing description of embodiments has been provided. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment may also vary in many ways. These variations should not be considered as departing from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0062] While the invention has been detailed and described in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such description is to be considered illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive. It should be understood that changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the appended claims. In particular, the invention covers additional embodiments having any combination of features from the different embodiments described above and below. Furthermore, the statements characterizing the invention herein refer to embodiments of the invention, and not necessarily all embodiments.

[0063] The terms used in the claims should be interpreted as having the broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the foregoing description. For example, the use of the articles “a” or “the” when introducing an element should not be interpreted as excluding multiple elements. Similarly, the statement “or” should be interpreted as inclusive, such that the statement “A or B” does not exclude “A and B” unless it is clearly indicated from the context or the foregoing description that only one of A and B is intended. Further, the statement “at least one of A, B, and C” should be interpreted as one or more of a set of elements consisting of A, B, and C, and should not be interpreted as requiring at least one of each of the listed elements A, B, and C, regardless of whether A, B, and C are related as a category or otherwise. Moreover, the statement “A, B, and / or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” should be interpreted as including any singular entity from the listed elements, such as A, any subset from the listed elements, such as A and B, or the entire list of elements A, B, and C.

[0064] The numerical ranges listed in this application should be interpreted as including the endpoints of the ranges. The upper and lower longitudinal axes (which may be omitted in some illustrations for scaling purposes) should be interpreted as present in each of the illustrations or cases mentioned.

Claims

1. A method for switching the operation of an oil control circuit between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes, comprising: The first and second oil control valves associated with the oil control line are deactivated, wherein the deactivation of the first and second oil control valves results in no oil flow in the first and second oil passages, wherein the first oil passage is operable as the outlet of the first oil control valve, wherein the second oil passage is operable as the outlet of the second oil control valve, wherein the first oil passage is connected to a first inlet port on the housing of the spool valve assembly, the spool valve assembly being associated with the oil control line, wherein the second oil passage is connected to a second inlet port on the housing of the spool valve assembly, wherein a third oil passage is connected to a valve core outlet on the housing of the spool valve assembly, and wherein the spool valve of the spool valve assembly, configured to slide axially within the housing of the spool valve assembly, is in a stationary position; as well as The oil control circuit is operated in the first mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Based on the pressure balance between the second oil passage and the third oil passage and associated with the spool valve assembly, oil flow can pass between the second oil passage and the third oil passage.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first mode is a drive mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with an engine brake, wherein the engine brake is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the intake valve is disconnected.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The second oil control valve is activated, wherein the activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through the second oil passage, wherein the second oil passage causes the oil to flow to the third oil passage; as well as The oil control circuit is operated in the second mode.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The second mode is the cylinder deactivation (CDA) mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with the engine brake, wherein the engine brake is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with the exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is on, wherein the oil control line is associated with the intake valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the intake valve is on.

6. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The first oil control valve is activated, wherein the activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through the first oil passage, wherein the oil flow through the first oil passage applies pressure to the slide valve to cause the slide valve to slide axially to a non-stationary position within the housing, wherein the slide valve sliding to the non-stationary position allows the oil flow through the first oil passage to be transmitted through the third oil passage. as well as The oil control circuit is operated in the third mode.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The third mode is an engine braking mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with an engine brake, wherein the engine brake is engaged, wherein the oil control line is associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is engaged, wherein the oil control line is associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation, and wherein the intake valve is disengaged.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Activating the first oil control valve and the second oil control valve, wherein activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through the first oil passage, wherein activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through the third oil passage, and wherein one or more of the first oil passage and the third oil passage transmit oil flow to the third oil passage; and The oil control circuit is operated in the fourth mode.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The fourth mode is a full start mode, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the engine brake, wherein the engine brake is engaged, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is engaged, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the intake valve for cylinder deactivation, and wherein the intake valve is engaged.

10. An oil control circuit configured for switching between multiple oil-controlled variable valve lift modes, comprising: First oil control valve; Second oil control valve; The first oil passage can be operated as the outlet of the first oil control valve; The second oil passage can be operated as the outlet of the second oil control valve; Third oil passage; as well as The slide valve assembly includes: shell; A slide valve configured to slide axially within the housing; A first inlet port located on the housing is configured to connect to the first oil passage; The second inlet port located on the housing is configured to connect to the second oil passage; The valve core outlet located on the housing is configured for connection with the third oil passage; and A return spring is configured to return the slide valve to a rest position; The oil control circuit is configured to switch between multiple oil control variable valve lift modes by selectively (i) deactivating the first oil control valve and deactivating the second oil control valve; (ii) deactivating the first oil control valve and activating the second oil control valve; (iii) activating the first oil control valve and deactivating the second oil control valve; and (iii) activating the first oil control valve and activating the second oil control valve.

11. The oil control circuit according to claim 10, wherein, The oil control circuit is configured for: Deactivate the first oil control valve and the second oil control valve, wherein the deactivation of the first oil control valve and the second oil control valve results in no oil flow in the first oil passage and the second oil passage; and Operate in the first mode.

12. The oil control circuit according to claim 11, wherein, Based on the balanced pressure between the second oil passage and the third oil passage and associated with the spool valve assembly, oil flow is possible between the second oil passage and the third oil passage.

13. The oil control circuit according to claim 11, wherein, The first mode is a drive mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with an engine brake, wherein the engine brake is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the intake valve is disconnected.

14. The oil control circuit according to claim 10, wherein, The oil control circuit is configured for: The first oil control valve is deactivated, wherein deactivation of the first oil control valve results in no oil flow in the first oil passage; The second oil control valve is activated, wherein the activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through the second oil passage, wherein the second oil passage transmits the oil flow to the third oil passage; and Operate in the second mode.

15. The oil control circuit according to claim 14, wherein, The second mode is the cylinder deactivation (CDA) mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with the engine brake, wherein the engine brake is disconnected, wherein the oil control line is associated with the exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is on, wherein the oil control line is associated with the intake valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the intake valve is on.

16. The oil control circuit according to claim 10, wherein, The oil control circuit is configured for: The first oil control valve is activated, wherein the activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through the first oil passage, wherein the oil flow through the first oil passage applies pressure to the slide valve to cause the slide valve to slide axially to a non-stationary position within the housing, wherein the slide valve sliding to the non-stationary position allows the oil flow through the first oil passage to be transmitted through the third oil passage. The second oil control valve is deactivated, wherein the deactivation of the second oil control valve results in no oil flow in the second oil passage; as well as Operate in the third mode.

17. The oil control circuit according to claim 16, wherein, The third mode is an engine braking mode, wherein the oil control line is associated with an engine brake, wherein the engine brake is engaged, wherein the oil control line is associated with an exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is engaged, wherein the oil control line is associated with an intake valve for cylinder deactivation, and wherein the intake valve is disengaged.

18. The oil control circuit according to claim 10, wherein, The oil control circuit is configured for: The first oil control valve and the second oil control valve are activated, wherein activation of the first oil control valve causes oil to flow through the first oil passage, and activation of the second oil control valve causes oil to flow through the third oil passage, and one or more of the first and third oil passages transmit oil flow to the third oil passage; and Operate in the fourth mode.

19. The oil control circuit according to claim 18, wherein, The fourth mode is a full start mode, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the engine brake, wherein the engine brake is engaged, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the exhaust valve for cylinder deactivation, wherein the exhaust valve is engaged, wherein the oil control circuit is associated with the intake valve for cylinder deactivation, and wherein the intake valve is engaged.

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