Variable lift rocker arm structure and rocker arm assembly structure for variable valve phase and lift

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a variable-lift rocker structure and a variable valve phase and lift rocker assembly structure, and relates to the technical field of rockers.The variable-lift rocker structure and the variable valve phase and lift rocker assembly structure provided by the application are provided with a variable-lift rocker structure comprising a rocker body and an auxiliary rocker structure;the rocker body is switched to a first position or a second position by oil to switch the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve under the action of the auxiliary rocker structure;on the one hand, the influence of the eccentric wear of the tappet caused by the switching of the double rollers or the double tappets in the prior art can be reduced to a certain extent;on the other hand, the components are reduced, the mass is reduced, and the rotational inertia of the whole variable-lift rocker structure is small.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of rocker arm technology, and more specifically, to a variable lift rocker arm structure and a rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift. Background Technology

[0002] An internal combustion engine is a complex machine operating under highly variable conditions, fluctuating within a wide range of speeds and torques. When high speed and high torque are required, as much fresh air as possible is needed, while when low speed and low torque are required, less fresh air is needed. Therefore, the theoretical intake volume required by an internal combustion engine during actual operation is constantly changing. This necessitates that the opening and closing of the engine valves be constantly adjusted according to actual needs, correspondingly requiring changes in valve lift to regulate the intake air volume. Variable valve lift mechanisms in internal combustion engines are typically implemented through variable camshafts, double rocker arm switching, or variable valve bridges.

[0003] Existing variable cam technology achieves this by changing the cam position or switching the cam and rocker arm rollers, often requiring complex switching mechanisms and servo motors for control. However, the implementation mechanism of variable cam technology is complex and costly; at the same time, cam switching also requires a certain amount of time, which is not conducive to timely adaptation to changes in vehicle driving conditions, resulting in relatively slow changes in the internal combustion engine's operating conditions.

[0004] The existing variable height valve bridge technology utilizes changes in the height of the valve bridge to achieve changes in valve lift. However, the variable height valve bridge method is limited by the space around the valve bridge, making it inconvenient to apply to engines of different displacements. Furthermore, because its control oil circuit needs to extend from the solenoid valve all the way into the valve bridge, the control oil circuit is long, the response is slower, and it is not conducive to timely adaptation to changes in vehicle driving conditions, resulting in a relatively slow change in the internal combustion engine's operating conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a variable lift rocker arm structure and a rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift, which can switch the extension position of the piston assembly, i.e., a first position or a second position, through an auxiliary rocker arm structure, thereby switching the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve.

[0006] The embodiments of the present invention can be implemented as follows:

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a variable lift rocker arm structure, comprising:

[0008] A rocker arm body is movably mounted on a rocker arm shaft. The rocker arm shaft has a rocker arm shaft oil passage. The rocker arm body has a first cavity. A piston assembly connected to a valve drive is movably mounted in the first cavity. The piston assembly has a first position and a second position.

[0009] An auxiliary rocker arm structure is fixed on the rocker arm shaft. The auxiliary rocker arm structure includes a one-way valve assembly and a tappet assembly. The one-way valve assembly is provided with a hydraulic chamber and a second chamber. The hydraulic chamber is connected to the oil circuit of the rocker arm shaft. The second chamber is connected to the first chamber and the hydraulic chamber respectively. The tappet assembly is movably disposed in the second chamber.

[0010] When the solenoid valve is opened, the piston assembly extends from the first position to the second position;

[0011] When the solenoid valve is closed, the piston assembly retracts from the second position to the first position.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the one-way valve assembly includes a transmission element movably disposed within the hydraulic chamber;

[0013] When the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the hydraulic chamber, and the transmission component cuts off the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic chamber.

[0014] When the solenoid valve is closed, the oil in the first cavity returns to the rocker arm shaft oil circuit through the hydraulic cavity under the action of the valve. The transmission component connects the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic cavity.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the hydraulic chamber includes a third chamber, a fourth chamber, and a channel; the second chamber is connected to the fourth chamber, and the fourth chamber is connected to the third chamber through the channel; the rocker arm shaft oil circuit is connected to the channel.

[0016] The transmission component includes a top block, a shaft, a sealing component, and a first sealing elastic component. The top block is disposed in the third cavity, and the sealing component and the first sealing elastic component are disposed in the fourth cavity. The shaft is movably disposed along the channel. One end of the shaft is connected to the sealing component, and the other end abuts against one end of the top block. One end of the first sealing elastic component abuts against the other end of the top block, and the other end of the first sealing elastic component is connected to the inner wall of the fourth cavity.

[0017] When the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the channel. Under the action of the oil, the top block drives the shaft to move along the channel toward the third cavity, so that the sealing member closes the channel under the action of the first sealing elastic member.

[0018] When the solenoid valve is closed, the top block drives the shaft to move along the channel toward the fourth chamber. The sealing member opens the channel under the action of the shaft. Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber returns to the channel through the second chamber and the fourth chamber.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the tappet assembly is used to connect with a second cam drive;

[0020] When the battery valve is opened, the one-way valve assembly cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the second cam, the tappet assembly pushes the oil in the second chamber into the first chamber, so that the piston assembly extends from the first position to the second position and remains in the second position.

[0021] When the solenoid valve is closed, the one-way valve assembly connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber returns to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber, so that the piston assembly retracts from the second position to the first position, and the piston assembly remains in the first position.

[0022] In an optional embodiment, the tappet assembly is a first tappet assembly that extends along the second cavity so that the first tappet assembly and the second cam are in constant contact.

[0023] When the solenoid valve is opened, the first tappet assembly, under the action of the second cam, pushes the oil in the second chamber into the first chamber, so that the piston assembly extends from the first position to the second position.

[0024] In an optional embodiment, the first pushrod assembly includes a first pushrod and a first elastic member. The first pushrod is disposed in the second cavity. A first limiting cavity is provided at one end of the first pushrod near the second cavity. The first elastic member is limited and disposed in the first limiting cavity. One end of the first elastic member is connected to the inner wall of the first limiting cavity, and the other end of the first elastic member is connected to the inner wall of the second cavity.

[0025] A first roller is provided at the end of the first push rod away from the second cavity.

[0026] In an optional embodiment, the tappet assembly is a second tappet assembly, which retracts along the second cavity, and the second tappet assembly and the second cam are normally not in contact.

[0027] When the solenoid valve is opened, the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the second cavity through the hydraulic chamber, and the second tappet assembly extends along the second cavity under the action of the oil and contacts the second cam; the second tappet assembly pushes the oil in the second cavity into the first cavity under the action of the second cam, so that the piston assembly extends from the first position to the second position.

[0028] In an optional embodiment, the second tappet assembly includes a second tappet, a second elastic element, a connecting shaft, and a limiting element. The second tappet is disposed in the second cavity, and a second limiting cavity is provided at one end of the second tappet near the second cavity. The limiting element is limitedly connected to the second limiting cavity.

[0029] The connecting shaft passes through the rocker arm body, the limiting member, and the second limiting cavity. One end of the connecting shaft is provided with a limiting part located in the second limiting cavity. The second elastic member is disposed in the second limiting cavity, with one end of the second elastic member connected to the limiting member and the other end connected to the limiting part.

[0030] The second push rod has a connecting part at one end away from the second cavity; the connecting part has a flat bottom contact surface; or, the connecting part has an arc-shaped contact surface.

[0031] In an optional embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure further includes a second roller, which is connected to the first cam drive. Under the action of the first cam, the second roller drives the variable lift rocker arm structure to swing.

[0032] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift, including the variable lift rocker arm structure described in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0033] The beneficial effects of the variable lift rocker arm structure and the rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift provided in the embodiments of the present invention include:

[0034] By setting a variable lift rocker arm structure including a rocker arm body and an auxiliary rocker arm structure, the rocker arm body, under the action of the auxiliary rocker arm structure, switches the extension position of the piston assembly via hydraulic fluid, i.e., a first position or a second position, thereby switching the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve. On the one hand, compared with the existing double roller or double tappet structure, this application can switch the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve by setting an auxiliary rocker arm structure without switching the cam or the position of the cam, which can reduce the uneven wear of the tappets caused by the switching of the double roller or double tappet in the prior art to a certain extent. On the other hand, the number of components in this application is reduced, the weight is lightened, and the overall rotational inertia of the variable lift rocker arm structure is small. Furthermore, compared with the existing variable height valve bridge method, this application integrates an oil circuit inside the auxiliary rocker arm structure, with a short control oil circuit and fast response, which can adapt to changes in the vehicle's driving conditions in a timely manner. Attached Figure Description

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a bottom view of the variable lift rocker arm structure with a first tappet assembly provided in this embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Sectional view of AA;

[0038] Figure 3 This is a front view of the variable lift rocker arm structure with a first tappet assembly provided in this embodiment;

[0039] Figure 4 for Figure 3 Sectional view of BB;

[0040] Figure 5 for Figure 3 Sectional view of CC;

[0041] Figure 6 This is a front view of the variable lift rocker arm structure with a second tappet assembly provided in this embodiment;

[0042] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the connecting portion provided in this embodiment, showing a planar contact surface;

[0043] Figure 8A first cross-sectional view showing that the connecting part provided in this embodiment has an arc-shaped contact surface;

[0044] Figure 9 A second cross-sectional view showing that the connecting part provided in this embodiment has an arc-shaped contact surface;

[0045] Figure 10 A third cross-sectional view showing that the connecting part provided in this embodiment has an arc-shaped contact surface;

[0046] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the variable lift rocker arm structure provided in this embodiment at the first oil passage;

[0047] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the lift height difference of the variable lift rocker arm structure provided in this embodiment.

[0048] Icon: 010 - Variable lift rocker arm structure;

[0049] 100-Rock arm body; 101-First cavity; 102-Fourth oil passage; 103-Shaft hole; 110-Rock arm shaft; 120-Second roller; 200-Piston assembly; 210-Adjusting screw; 220-Piston; 230-Piston elastic element; 300-First tappet assembly; 310-First tappet; 320-First elastic element; 330-First roller; 400-Second tappet assembly; 410-Second tappet; 420-Second elastic element; 430-Connecting shaft; 431-Limiting part; 440-Limiting element; 450-Connecting part; 500-One-way valve assembly; 501-Second chamber; 502-Third chamber; 503-Fourth chamber; 504-Channel; 505-First oil passage; 506-Second oil passage; 507-Third oil passage; 510-Top block; 520-Shaft; 530-Sealing element; 540-Second sealing elastic element; 550-First gasket; 560-First sealing elastic element; 570-Screw plug; 580-Valve seat. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of the present invention described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0051] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the invention provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the invention. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the invention without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the invention.

[0052] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0053] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "inner," or "outer" are used to indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product of this invention is usually placed, they are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0054] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be interpreted as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0055] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the features in the embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other.

[0056] The following detailed description of the overall structure, working principle, and technical effects of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 and the rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift provided by the present invention, through embodiments and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, is a detailed account of these embodiments.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 1 The variable lift rocker arm structure 010 provided by the present invention is applied to the rocker arm assembly structure of variable valve phase and lift of vehicle internal combustion engine.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 6 This invention proposes a variable lift rocker arm structure 010, comprising:

[0059] The rocker arm body 100 is movably mounted on the rocker arm shaft 110. The rocker arm shaft 110 is provided with a rocker arm shaft oil passage. The rocker arm body 100 is provided with a first cavity 101. The first cavity 101 is movably provided with a piston assembly 200 connected to the valve drive. The piston assembly 200 has a first position and a second position.

[0060] An auxiliary rocker arm structure is fixed on the rocker arm shaft 110. The auxiliary rocker arm structure includes a one-way valve assembly 500 and a tappet assembly. The one-way valve assembly 500 is provided with a hydraulic chamber and a second chamber 501. The hydraulic chamber is connected to the oil circuit of the rocker arm shaft. The second chamber 501 is connected to the first chamber 101 and the hydraulic chamber respectively. The tappet assembly is movably disposed in the second chamber 501.

[0061] When the solenoid valve opens, the piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position;

[0062] The solenoid valve closes, and the piston assembly 200 retracts from the second position to the first position.

[0063] Understandably, when the piston assembly 200 is in its normal first position, the rocker arm body 100 swings, causing it to drive the piston assembly 200 in the first position to open the valve. Simultaneously, the valve generates its first valve lift, i.e., the normal intake lift. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the lift difference of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 provided in this embodiment. Figure 12 The blue curve represents the first valve lift curve.

[0064] When the piston assembly 200 is in the second position, the rocker arm body 100 swings, causing the rocker arm body 100 to drive the piston assembly 200 in the second position to open the valve, and simultaneously the valve generates a second valve lift. See also... Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the lift difference of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 provided in this embodiment. Figure 12 The orange curve represents the second valve lift curve.

[0065] It should be noted that when the solenoid valve is opened, the one-way valve assembly 500 cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber, and the piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position under the action of the tappet assembly; then the valve switches from the first valve lift to the second valve lift.

[0066] When the solenoid valve is closed, the one-way valve assembly 500 connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber; under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber 101 can return to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber, so that the piston assembly 200 retracts from the second position to the first position; then the valve switches from the second valve lift to the first valve lift.

[0067] Therefore, this application provides a variable lift rocker arm structure 010, including a rocker arm body 100 and an auxiliary rocker arm structure. Under the action of the auxiliary rocker arm structure, the rocker arm body 100 switches the extension position of the piston assembly 200 via hydraulic fluid, i.e., the first position or the second position, thereby switching the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve. On the one hand, compared with the existing double roller or double tappet structure, this application can switch the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve by setting the auxiliary rocker arm structure without switching the cam or the position of the cam, which can reduce the wear effect on the tappet when switching in the existing double roller or double tappet structure to a certain extent. On the other hand, this application has fewer components and lighter weight, resulting in a smaller overall rotational inertia of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010. Furthermore, compared with the existing variable height valve bridge method, this application integrates an oil circuit inside the auxiliary rocker arm structure, resulting in a short control oil circuit, fast response, and timely adaptation to changes in vehicle driving conditions.

[0068] In this embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 includes a rocker arm body 100.

[0069] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 5 The rocker arm body 100 is movably mounted on the rocker arm shaft 110. The rocker arm shaft 110 is provided with a rocker arm shaft oil passage. The rocker arm body 100 is provided with a first cavity 101. The first cavity 101 is movably provided with a piston assembly 200 that is connected to the valve drive.

[0070] Furthermore, the rocker arm body 100 is provided with a first cavity 101, a shaft hole 103 and a fourth oil passage 102; wherein, the first cavity 101 is used to house the piston assembly 200; wherein, the shaft hole 103 passes through the rocker arm body 100 and is used to house the rocker arm shaft 110, and the rocker arm shaft 110 is provided with a fifth oil passage.

[0071] The fifth oil passage is inclined and passes through the rocker arm shaft 110, so as to connect the second cavity 501 and the first cavity 101 through the fifth oil passage and the fourth oil passage 102.

[0072] In this embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 further includes a second roller 120, which is used to drive the first cam. Under the action of the first cam, the second roller 120 drives the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 to swing.

[0073] In this embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 includes a piston assembly 200.

[0074] The piston assembly 200 is used to connect with the valve drive so that the valve produces valve lift.

[0075] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 5 The piston assembly 200 includes an adjusting screw 210, a piston 220, and a piston elastic element 230. The adjusting screw 210 and the piston 220 are located on opposite sides of the first cavity 101. The piston elastic element 230 is sleeved on the adjusting screw 210. One end of the piston elastic element 230 abuts against the inner wall of the first cavity 101, and the other end is limited by the limiting cavity of the piston 220.

[0076] Understandably, when the solenoid valve is open, the one-way valve assembly 500 cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the tappet assembly, the oil in the second chamber 501 is pushed into the first chamber 101. The oil pushes the piston 220 to extend from the first position to the second position along the first chamber 101. When the solenoid valve is closed, the one-way valve assembly 500 connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the valve, the piston 220 pushes the oil in the first chamber 101 back along the original path, restoring the first position from the second position.

[0077] In this embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 includes a solenoid valve.

[0078] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 The solenoid valve is connected to the hydraulic chamber of the check valve assembly 500. The rocker arm shaft 110 also has a rocker arm shaft oil passage; please refer to... Figure 11 The solenoid valve is connected to the channel 504 through the rocker arm shaft oil passage on the rocker arm shaft 110 and the first oil passage 505 on the one-way valve assembly 500.

[0079] Understandably, the solenoid valve opens and controls the oil to enter the channel 504, so that the check valve assembly 500 cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber; when the solenoid valve closes, the check valve assembly 500 connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber, and under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber 101 returns to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber.

[0080] In this embodiment, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 includes an auxiliary rocker arm structure.

[0081] In this embodiment, the auxiliary rocker arm structure is fixed on the rocker arm shaft 110. The auxiliary rocker arm structure includes a one-way valve assembly 500 and a tappet assembly. The one-way valve assembly 500 is provided with a hydraulic chamber and a second chamber 501. The hydraulic chamber is connected to the oil circuit of the rocker arm shaft. The second chamber 501 is connected to the first chamber 101 and the hydraulic chamber respectively. The tappet assembly is movably disposed in the second chamber 501.

[0082] In this embodiment, the one-way valve assembly 500 includes a valve body and a transmission component. The valve body is provided with a second cavity 501 and a hydraulic cavity. The second cavity 501 is connected to the first cavity 101 and the hydraulic cavity respectively. The transmission component is movably disposed in the hydraulic cavity.

[0083] It should be noted that when the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the hydraulic chamber, and the transmission component cuts off the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic chamber.

[0084] When the solenoid valve is closed, the oil in the first chamber 101 returns to the rocker arm shaft oil circuit through the hydraulic chamber under the action of the valve, and the transmission component connects the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic chamber.

[0085] In this embodiment, the hydraulic chamber includes a third chamber 502, a fourth chamber 503, and a channel 504; the third chamber 502, the fourth chamber 503, and the channel 504 are coaxially arranged, the second chamber 501 is connected to the fourth chamber 503, and the fourth chamber 503 is connected to the third chamber 502 through the channel 504; wherein, the rocker arm shaft oil circuit is connected to the channel 504.

[0086] Specifically, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 11 The one-way valve assembly 500 is also provided with a first oil passage 505, one end of which is connected to the rocker arm shaft oil passage, and the other end of which is connected to the channel 504.

[0087] Specifically, please refer to Figure 4 The valve body of the one-way valve assembly 500 is also provided with a second oil passage 506. One end of the second oil passage 506 is connected to the inner bottom wall of the second cavity 501, and the other end of the second oil passage 506 is connected to one end of the fifth oil passage; please refer to Figure 5 The other end of the fifth oil passage is connected to one end of the fourth oil passage 102, and the other end of the fourth oil passage 102 is connected to the first cavity 101. This allows the second cavity 501 to be connected to the first cavity 101 through the second oil passage 506, the fifth oil passage, and the fourth oil passage 102.

[0088] Specifically, please refer to Figure 2 The valve body of the one-way valve assembly 500 is also provided with a third oil passage 507. One end of the third oil passage 507 is connected to the inner bottom wall of the second cavity 501, and the other end is connected to the fourth cavity 503, so that the second cavity 501 is connected to the third cavity 502 through the third oil passage 507, the fourth cavity 503 and the channel 504.

[0089] In this embodiment, the one-way valve assembly 500 includes a transmission component movably disposed within the hydraulic chamber; please refer to... Figure 2The transmission component includes a top block 510, a shaft 520, a sealing element 530, and a first sealing elastic element 560. The top block 510 is disposed in the third cavity 502, and the sealing element 530 and the first sealing elastic element 560 are disposed in the fourth cavity 503. The shaft 520 is movably disposed along the channel 504. One end of the shaft 520 is connected to the sealing element 530, and the other end abuts against one end of the top block 510. One end of the first sealing elastic element 560 abuts against the other end of the top block 510, and the other end of the first sealing elastic element 560 is connected to the inner wall of the fourth cavity 503.

[0090] Please refer to Figure 2 The first sealing elastic element 560, the top block 510, the shaft 520, the sealing element 530, and the channel 504 are coaxially arranged.

[0091] Alternatively, please refer to Figure 2 The one-way valve assembly 500 includes a screw plug 570, which is connected to the fourth cavity 503 by a threaded seal. One end of the screw plug 570 located in the fourth cavity 503 is provided with a limiting cavity. One end of the first sealing elastic member 560 is connected to the inner wall of the limiting cavity of the screw plug 570, and the other end is connected to the sealing member 530.

[0092] Optionally, the sealing element 530 can be a spherical sealing element, etc.

[0093] Alternatively, please refer to Figure 2 The one-way valve assembly 500 also includes a valve seat 580, which is located in the fourth cavity 503 and close to the channel 504. The valve seat 580 has an opening and a mating groove, and the shaft 520 passes through the mating groove, the opening and the channel 504.

[0094] Understandably, the first sealing elastic element 560 is used to push the shaft 520 along the channel 504 toward the third cavity 502, so that the sealing element 530 engages with the mating groove of the valve seat 580 and closes the channel 504. This combination of valve seat 580 and sealing element 530 enhances the sealing effect on the channel 504.

[0095] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 The one-way valve assembly 500 also includes a second sealing elastic element 540, which is disposed in the third cavity 502. The second sealing elastic element 540, the top block 510, the shaft 520, the sealing element 530 and the channel 504 are coaxially arranged. One end of the second sealing elastic element 540 is connected to the inner wall of the third cavity 502, and the other end is limitedly connected to the top block 510. The second sealing elastic element 540 is used to push the top block 510 so that the shaft 520 moves along the channel 504 toward the fourth cavity 503 so that the shaft 520 pushes open the sealing element 530 and opens the channel 504.

[0096] Optionally, the top block 510 is provided with a limiting cavity at the end away from the channel 504, which limits the connection to the second sealing elastic member 540.

[0097] Optionally, a first gasket 550 is provided within the third cavity 502 for limiting connection, so that one end of the second sealing elastic member 540 is connected to the first gasket 550 and the other end is limitedly connected to the bottom wall of the limiting cavity of the top block 510.

[0098] Understandably, when the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the channel 504. Under the action of the oil, the top block 510 drives the shaft 520 to move along the channel 504 toward the third cavity 502, so that the sealing member 530 closes the channel 504 under the action of the first sealing elastic member 560.

[0099] It should be noted that the specific steps of the above steps are as follows: the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the channel 504 through the first oil passage 505, the oil entering the channel 504 pushes the top block 510 to move to the left, the top block 510 drives the shaft 520 to move along the channel 504 toward the third cavity 502; at the same time, the first sealing elastic element 560 is reset, and the sealing element 530, under the push of the first sealing elastic element 560, seals and closes the channel 504.

[0100] The first cavity 101, the second cavity 501 and the fourth cavity 503 are filled with oil and form a high-pressure cavity. The piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position under the action of the tappet assembly.

[0101] Understandably, when the solenoid valve is closed, the top block 510 drives the shaft 520 to move along the channel 504 toward the fourth chamber 503. Under the action of the shaft 520, the sealing member 530 opens the channel 504. Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber 101 returns to the channel 504 through the second chamber 501 and the fourth chamber 503.

[0102] It should be noted that the specific steps of the above steps are as follows: when the solenoid valve is closed, the second sealing elastic element 540 is reset and drives the top block 510 and the shaft 520 to move toward the channel 504. The sealing element 530 opens the channel 504 under the action of the shaft 520. At the same time, the first cavity 101, the second cavity 501, the fourth cavity 503, the channel 504, the first oil passage 505 and the rocker arm shaft oil passage are connected and form a low-pressure cavity.

[0103] Under the action of the valve, the piston assembly 200 retracts from the second position to the first position; at the same time, the piston assembly 200 pushes the oil in the first chamber 101 back into the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the second chamber 501, the fourth chamber 503 and the channel 504, at which time the piston assembly 200 remains in the first position.

[0104] At this time, the sealing member 530 presses the first sealing elastic member 560 so that the first sealing elastic member 560 is in a compressed state.

[0105] In an optional embodiment, the valve body and rocker arm body 100 of the one-way valve assembly 500 can be integrally formed or separately formed and then fixed to form a variable lift rocker arm structure 010.

[0106] Alternatively, please refer to Figure 6 The one-way valve assembly 500 can be horizontally mounted on the rocker arm body 100; or, please refer to Figure 1 The one-way valve assembly 500 can also be longitudinally mounted on the rocker arm body 100.

[0107] In this embodiment, the auxiliary rocker arm structure includes a tappet assembly, and the one-way valve assembly 500 is provided with a second cavity 501, which is connected to the first cavity 101 and the hydraulic cavity respectively; the tappet assembly is movably disposed within the second cavity 501, and the tappet assembly is connected to the second cam drive.

[0108] Understandably, when the battery valve opens, the one-way valve assembly 500 cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the second cam, the tappet assembly pushes the oil in the second chamber 501 into the first chamber 101, so that the piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position, and the piston assembly 200 remains in the second position.

[0109] When the intake is fully opened, the piston assembly 200, under the action of the valve, allows the oil to return to the second chamber, causing the tappet assembly to extend outward. When the valve begins to reset, the tappet assembly, under the action of the second cam, forces the oil into the first chamber 101, keeping the piston assembly 200 in the second position, thus delaying the valve reset and achieving the second valve lift.

[0110] Understandably, when the solenoid valve is closed, the one-way valve assembly 500 connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber 101 returns to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber, so that the piston assembly 200 retracts from the second position to the first position, and the piston assembly 200 remains in the first position.

[0111] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 1-5 The tappet assembly is a first tappet assembly 300, which extends along the second cavity 501 so that the first tappet assembly 300 is in constant contact with the second cam.

[0112] Specifically, when the solenoid valve is opened, the first tappet assembly 300, under the action of the second cam, pushes the oil in the second chamber 501 into the first chamber 101, so that the piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position.

[0113] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The first push-up assembly 300 includes a first push-up 310 and a first elastic element 320. The first push-up 310 is disposed in the second cavity 501. A first limiting cavity is provided at one end of the first push-up 310 near the second cavity 501. The first elastic element 320 is limited and disposed in the first limiting cavity. One end of the first elastic element 320 is connected to the inner wall of the first limiting cavity, and the other end of the first elastic element 320 is connected to the inner wall of the second cavity 501. A first roller 330 is provided at the end of the first push-up 310 away from the second cavity 501.

[0114] The first roller 330 is rotatably connected to the first tappet 310 via a pivot pin.

[0115] Optionally, the first elastic element 320 is a spring.

[0116] It should be noted that the first tappet assembly 300 uses a structure that is in constant contact with the second cam. Because the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 has a small moment of inertia, the spring force required to keep the first tappet assembly 300 in contact with the second cam through the first elastic element 320 is small, and the friction loss with the second cam is small. At the same time, this application does not require switching cams compared to the prior art, so the first tappet 310 will not be affected by collisions or uneven wear during switching.

[0117] In this embodiment, the working process of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 with the first tappet assembly 300 is as follows: Under the action of the first elastic member 320, the first tappet 310 is in the ejected state, and the first tappet 310 and the second cam are in constant contact.

[0118] First: The solenoid valve opens, controlling the oil to enter the channel 504. Under the action of the oil, the top block 510 drives the shaft 520 to move along the channel 504 toward the third cavity 502. The sealing member 530 closes the channel 504 under the action of the first sealing elastic member 560.

[0119] Under the action of the second cam, the second cam pushes the first tappet 310 in the extended state to move along the second cavity 501 and pushes the oil in the second cavity 501 into the first cavity 101. The oil entering the first cavity 101 pushes the piston assembly 200 to extend from the first position to the second position.

[0120] Furthermore, under the rotation of the first cam, the first cam pushes the second roller 120 to make the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 swing, so that the piston assembly 200 pushes the valve to switch from the first valve lift to the second valve lift.

[0121] Second: When the solenoid valve is closed, the sealing component 530 opens the channel 504 under the action of the shaft 520; at the same time, the first cavity 101, the second cavity 501, the fourth cavity 503, the channel 504, the first oil passage 505 and the rocker arm shaft oil passage are connected and form a low-pressure cavity.

[0122] Furthermore, under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber 101 returns to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber, so that the piston assembly 200 retracts from the second position to the first position.

[0123] Furthermore, under the rotation of the first cam, the first cam pushes the second roller 120 to make the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 swing, so that the piston assembly 200 pushes the valve to produce the first valve lift.

[0124] In one embodiment, please refer to Figures 6-10 The tappet assembly is a second tappet assembly 400. The second tappet assembly 400 retracts along the second cavity 501, and the second tappet assembly 400 and the second cam are normally not in contact.

[0125] Specifically, when the solenoid valve is opened, the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the second chamber 501 through the hydraulic chamber, and the second tappet assembly 400 extends along the second chamber 501 under the action of the oil and contacts the second cam; under the action of the second cam, the second tappet assembly 400 pushes the oil in the second chamber 501 into the first chamber 101, so that the piston assembly 200 extends from the first position to the second position.

[0126] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 10 The second tappet assembly 400 includes a second tappet 410, a second elastic element 420, a connecting shaft 430, and a limiting element 440. The second tappet 410 is disposed within the second cavity 501, and a second limiting cavity is provided at one end of the second tappet 410 near the second cavity 501. The limiting element 440 is limitedly connected within the second limiting cavity. The connecting shaft 430 passes through the rocker arm body 100, the limiting element 440, and the second limiting cavity. One end of the connecting shaft 430 is provided with a limiting portion 431 located within the second limiting cavity. The second elastic element 420 is disposed within the second limiting cavity, with one end connected to the limiting element 440 and the other end connected to the limiting portion 431.

[0127] Furthermore, a connecting part 450 is provided at the end of the second push rod 410 away from the second cavity 501.

[0128] Alternatively, please refer to Figure 7 The connecting part 450 is provided with a flat-bottomed contact surface that contacts the second cam; or, please refer to Figures 8-10 The connecting part 450 is provided with an arc-shaped contact surface that contacts the second cam.

[0129] It should be noted that the second tappet assembly 400 uses a structure that does not normally contact the second cam, so that the second tappet 410 of the second tappet assembly 400 does not contact the second cam when it is not working, that is, no friction loss occurs; at the same time, this application does not require switching the cam compared with the prior art, so the second tappet 410 will not be affected by collision or uneven wear during switching.

[0130] In this embodiment, the working process of the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 with the second tappet assembly 400 is as follows: Under the action of the second elastic element 420, the second tappet 410 is in the retracted state and the second tappet 410 does not contact the second cam.

[0131] First: When the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the channel 504. Under the action of the oil, the top block 510 drives the shaft 520 to move along the channel 504 toward the third cavity 502. The rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the second cavity 501 through the channel 504 and the fourth cavity 503, and the sealing member 530 closes the channel 504 under the action of the first sealing elastic member 560.

[0132] At this time, under the action of the oil entering the second cavity 501, the retracted second tappet 410 extends along the connecting shaft 430, and the second tappet 410 and the second cam are in a contactable state. Under the action of the second cam, the second cam pushes the extended second tappet 410 to move along the second cavity 501 and pushes the oil in the second cavity 501 into the first cavity 101. The oil in the first cavity 101 pushes the piston assembly 200 to extend from the first position to the second position. Since the first cavity 101, the second cavity 501 and the fourth cavity 503 are filled with oil and the passage 504 is closed, the piston assembly 200 remains in the second position.

[0133] Furthermore, under the rotation of the first cam, the first cam pushes the second roller 120 to make the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 swing, so that the piston assembly 200 pushes the valve to switch from the first valve lift to the second valve lift.

[0134] Second: When the solenoid valve is closed, under the action of the valve, the sealing component 530 opens the passage 504 under the action of the shaft 520; at the same time, the first chamber 101, the second chamber 501, the fourth chamber 503, the passage 504, the first oil passage 505 and the rocker arm shaft oil passage are connected and form a low-pressure chamber.

[0135] Furthermore, the oil in the first cavity 101 returns to the rocker arm shaft oil circuit through the hydraulic cavity, so that the piston assembly 200 is retracted from the second position to the first position, and there is no oil in the hydraulic cavity and the second cavity 501, and the piston assembly 200 remains in the first position.

[0136] At this time, there is no oil in the hydraulic chamber and the second chamber 501. Under the action of the second elastic element 420, the second tappet 410 returns to the retracted state where it does not contact the second cam.

[0137] Furthermore, under the rotation of the first cam, the first cam pushes the second roller 120 to make the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 swing, so that the piston assembly 200 pushes the valve to produce the first valve lift.

[0138] In summary, the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 and the rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift provided in this embodiment of the invention, by setting a variable lift rocker arm structure 010 including a rocker arm body 100 and an auxiliary rocker arm structure, allows the rocker arm body 100 to switch the extension position of the piston assembly 200, i.e., a first position or a second position, through hydraulic fluid under the action of the auxiliary rocker arm structure, thereby switching the first valve lift and the second valve lift generated by the valve; on the one hand, compared with the existing double roller or double tappet structure, this application, by setting an auxiliary rocker arm structure, This allows for switching between the first and second valve lift generated by the valves without switching the cam or its position. This reduces the wear on the tappets caused by switching with dual rollers or dual tappets in existing technologies. Furthermore, the reduced number of components and lighter weight of this application result in a smaller overall moment of inertia for the variable lift rocker arm structure 010. Moreover, compared to the variable height valve bridge method in existing technologies, this application integrates an oil circuit within the auxiliary rocker arm structure, resulting in a shorter control oil circuit, faster response, and the ability to adapt to changes in vehicle driving conditions in a timely manner.

[0139] Furthermore, the tappet assembly is configured as a first tappet assembly 300, which is in constant contact with the second cam. Because the variable lift rocker arm structure 010 has a small moment of inertia, the spring force required to keep the first tappet assembly 300 in contact with the second cam through the first elastic element 320 is small, and the friction loss with the second cam is small. At the same time, this application does not require switching the cam compared to the prior art, so there will be no collision during switching.

[0140] Furthermore, by configuring the tappet assembly as the second tappet assembly 400, the second tappet assembly 400 is used in a state where it is normally not in contact with the second cam, so that the second tappet 410 of the second tappet assembly 400 does not contact the second cam when it is not working, and therefore the second tappet 410 does not generate frictional loss.

[0141] The above are merely specific embodiments of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A variable lift rocker arm structure, characterized in that, include: A rocker arm body (100) is movably mounted on a rocker arm shaft (110). The rocker arm shaft (110) has a rocker arm shaft oil passage. The rocker arm body (100) has a first cavity (101). The first cavity (101) is movably mounted with a piston assembly (200) connected to the valve drive. The piston assembly (200) has a first position and a second position. An auxiliary rocker arm structure is fixed on the rocker arm shaft (110). The auxiliary rocker arm structure includes a one-way valve assembly (500) and a tappet assembly. The one-way valve assembly (500) is provided with a hydraulic chamber and a second chamber (501). The hydraulic chamber is connected to the oil circuit of the rocker arm shaft. The second chamber (501) is connected to the first chamber (101) and the hydraulic chamber respectively. The tappet assembly is movably disposed in the second chamber (501). When the solenoid valve is opened, the piston assembly (200) extends from the first position to the second position; When the solenoid valve is closed, the piston assembly (200) retracts from the second position to the first position; The one-way valve assembly (500) includes a transmission component movably disposed within the hydraulic chamber; When the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the hydraulic chamber, and the transmission component cuts off the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic chamber. When the solenoid valve is closed, the oil in the first cavity (101) returns to the rocker arm shaft oil circuit through the hydraulic cavity under the action of the valve. The transmission component connects the oil circuit between the rocker arm shaft oil circuit and the hydraulic cavity.

2. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hydraulic chamber includes a third chamber (502), a fourth chamber (503), and a channel (504). The second chamber (501) is connected to the fourth chamber (503), and the fourth chamber (503) is connected to the third chamber (502) through the channel (504). The rocker arm shaft oil circuit is connected to the channel (504). The transmission component includes a top block (510), a shaft (520), a sealing component (530), and a first sealing elastic component (560). The top block (510) is disposed in the third cavity (502), the sealing component (530) and the first sealing elastic component (560) are disposed in the fourth cavity (503), the shaft (520) is movably disposed along the channel (504), one end of the shaft (520) is connected to the sealing component (530), and the other end abuts against one end of the top block (510). One end of the first sealing elastic component (560) abuts against the other end of the sealing component (530), and the other end of the first sealing elastic component (560) is connected to the inner wall of the fourth cavity (503). When the solenoid valve is opened, the oil in the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the channel (504). Under the action of the oil, the top block (510) drives the shaft (520) to move along the channel (504) toward the third cavity (502), so that the sealing member (530) closes the channel (504) under the action of the first sealing elastic member (560). When the solenoid valve is closed, the top block (510) drives the shaft (520) to move along the channel (504) toward the fourth chamber (503). The sealing member (530) opens the channel (504) under the action of the shaft (520). Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber (101) returns to the channel (504) through the second chamber (501) and the fourth chamber (503).

3. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tappet assembly is used to connect with the second cam drive; When the solenoid valve is opened, the one-way valve assembly (500) cuts off the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the second cam, the tappet assembly pushes the oil in the second chamber (501) into the first chamber (101) so that the piston assembly (200) extends from the first position to the second position and the piston assembly (200) remains in the second position. When the solenoid valve is closed, the one-way valve assembly (500) connects the oil passage between the rocker arm shaft oil passage and the hydraulic chamber. Under the action of the valve, the oil in the first chamber (101) returns to the rocker arm shaft oil passage through the hydraulic chamber, so that the piston assembly (200) is retracted from the second position to the first position and the piston assembly (200) remains in the first position.

4. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tappet assembly is a first tappet assembly (300), which extends along the second cavity (501) so that the first tappet assembly (300) and the second cam are in constant contact. When the solenoid valve is opened, the first tappet assembly (300) pushes the oil in the second cavity (501) into the first cavity (101) under the action of the second cam, so that the piston assembly (200) extends from the first position to the second position.

5. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first pusher assembly (300) includes a first pusher (310) and a first elastic member (320). The first pusher (310) is disposed in the second cavity (501). A first limiting cavity is provided at one end of the first pusher (310) near the second cavity (501). The first elastic member (320) is limited and disposed in the first limiting cavity. One end of the first elastic member (320) is connected to the inner wall of the first limiting cavity, and the other end of the first elastic member (320) is connected to the inner wall of the second cavity (501). A first roller (330) is provided at the end of the first push rod (310) away from the second cavity (501).

6. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 3, characterized in that, The tappet assembly is a second tappet assembly (400), which retracts along the second cavity (501) and is normally not in contact with the second cam; When the solenoid valve is opened, the rocker arm shaft oil circuit enters the second cavity (501) through the hydraulic chamber. The second tappet assembly (400) extends along the second cavity (501) under the action of the oil and contacts the second cam. Under the action of the second cam, the second tappet assembly (400) pushes the oil in the second cavity (501) into the first cavity (101) so that the piston assembly (200) extends from the first position to the second position.

7. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second tappet assembly (400) includes a second tappet (410), a second elastic element (420), a connecting shaft (430), and a limiting element (440). The second tappet (410) is disposed in the second cavity (501). A second limiting cavity is provided at one end of the second tappet (410) near the second cavity (501). The limiting element (440) is limited and connected to the second limiting cavity. The connecting shaft (430) passes through the rocker arm body (100), the limiting member (440), and the second limiting cavity. One end of the connecting shaft (430) is provided with a limiting part (431) located in the second limiting cavity. The second elastic member (420) is disposed in the second limiting cavity. One end of the second elastic member (420) is connected to the limiting member (440), and the other end is connected to the limiting part (431). The second push rod (410) has a connecting part (450) at one end away from the second cavity (501); the connecting part (450) has a flat bottom contact surface; or, the connecting part (450) has an arc-shaped contact surface.

8. The variable lift rocker arm structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The variable lift rocker arm structure (010) also includes a second roller (120), which is used to be connected to the first cam drive. Under the action of the first cam, the second roller (120) drives the variable lift rocker arm structure (010) to swing.

9. A rocker arm assembly structure with variable valve phase and lift, characterized in that, Includes the variable lift rocker arm structure (010) as described in any one of claims 1-8.

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