Valve Train Cam Unit Axial Switching Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve train devices for internal combustion engines lack a flexible and efficient mechanism for switching between multiple cam tracks, limiting their operational variability and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
The valve train device incorporates a support element secured to the housing with an axially shiftable cam unit and a switch unit featuring two displacement bodies that can orthogonally shift the cam unit between three cam tracks, allowing for adjustable and reliable operation by using a displacement principle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional switch unit with single displacement body is used, then the structure is simple, but the ability to switch between multiple cam tracks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The switch unit is segmented into multiple displacement bodies (at least two) that can independently displace the cam unit axially. Each displacement body corresponds to a specific cam track, enabling selective engagement with different cam tracks through independent actuation of each displacement body.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional degree of freedom by using multiple displacement bodies that can be actuated independently in the axial direction. This multi-dimensional switching capability allows the cam unit to engage with different cam tracks (first, second, third cam tracks) by selectively activating specific displacement bodies, thereby expanding the switching versatility beyond conventional single-position designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple displacement bodies are used for switching cam tracks, then the operational variability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple displacement bodies are designed with identical or similar structural characteristics, each capable of performing the same axial displacement function but targeting different cam tracks. This universal design approach allows the system to achieve multiple switching positions using repeated modular units, enhancing operational variability while managing complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The displacement bodies are designed to be selectively actuatable, allowing the cam unit to dynamically switch between different operational states (different cam tracks) based on driving conditions. The switch unit transitions from a static single-position design to a dynamic multi-position system where the engagement state can be changed in real-time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the cam unit is designed with three cam tracks, then the valve train device becomes more variable, but the switching mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cam unit is segmented into multiple cam tracks (first, second, and third cam tracks) arranged axially along the camshaft. Each cam track provides a different valve actuation profile, and the segmentation is complemented by segmented displacement bodies that can selectively engage with each track, distributing the switching function across multiple independent elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds axial dimensionality to the cam unit design by arranging multiple cam tracks in the axial direction rather than using a single cam track with lateral switching. This axial arrangement of cam tracks corresponds to the axial displacement capability of multiple displacement bodies, creating a multi-dimensional switching mechanism that achieves high variability without proportionally increasing mechanical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve train device, in particular for an internal combustion engine, includes a support element secured to a housing, at least one axially moveable cam unit associated with a valve, and at least one switch unit for axially moving at least one part of the cam unit having at least one displacement body which is provided to be introduced for axial movement at least functionally between the support element and the cam unit. The cam unit has at least three cam paths.