Cam Phaser Return Spring Assembly Using Integrated Rotor Slot
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In internal combustion engines, camshaft phasers face challenges in assembling a return spring in limited axial and radial space, particularly in multi-piece phaser assemblies where separate components like spring retainers cannot be utilized.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for winding a return spring onto a camshaft phaser using a rotor plate with slots and posts, where the spring is secured at one end in a slot and wrapped around the rotor plate, allowing for assembly in restricted spaces by rotating the rotor extension relative to the stator, with the spring's torque being pre-determined and fixed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring retainer is used to secure the return spring, then the spring can be reliably secured, but additional components increase device complexity and are not feasible in limited axial and radial space
Solution Approach 1:
The spring retainer function is merged with the rotor plate by integrating a slot directly into the rotor plate structure. This eliminates the need for a separate spring retainer component while maintaining the ability to securely hold the return spring in place, thus reducing device complexity without compromising reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor plate is given multiple functions: it serves as both the rotating component of the phaser and as the spring mounting structure through its integrated slot. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated spring retention components, addressing the space and complexity constraints
2Ease of manufacture
If separate components like spring retainers are used, then assembly can be simplified, but axial and radial space requirements increase which is not acceptable in modern engine compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The spring retention functionality is combined with the rotor plate structure through an integrated slot, eliminating separate components and reducing the overall axial and radial space required while maintaining assembly simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring slot is nested within the rotor plate structure, allowing the return spring to be secured within the existing rotor plate geometry without requiring additional external components that would increase space requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient assembly of camshaft phasers in tight engine compartments by providing a secure and adjustable biasing mechanism without the need for additional components, ensuring proper phasing and operation of camshaft timing.
Implementation Method 1
a return spring for biasing the rotor within the stator, the return spring having a first end and a second end
Data Source
AI summary
A camshaft phaser, including: a drive sprocket; a stator; a rotor at least partially rotatable with the stator; a rotor extension fixedly connected to the rotor, having a slot at at least one outer circumferential position; a spring for biasing the rotor relative to the stator, having a first and a second end, the first end secured in the slot in the rotor extension and the second end secured on the stator.