Camshaft Phase Adjuster With Single-Pin Intermediate Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camshaft phase adjusters require two locking pins to implement the intermediate locking function, leading to increased complexity and reduced reliability due to fatigue issues with one-way valves when subjected to oil pressure.
Innovation Solution
A camshaft phase adjuster design utilizing a one-way valve in conjunction with a single locking pin, where the valve is housed in a valve mounting groove and features a movable portion that deforms to control fluid flow, allowing the phase adjuster to switch between locked and unlocked states without relying on multiple locking pins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two locking pins are used to control the flow path of pressurized fluid, then the intermediate locking function can be implemented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of two separate locking pins into a single locking pin that works in conjunction with a one-way valve. The locking pin controls both the first oil hole and the second oil hole through its positioning relative to the one-way valve, thereby reducing the number of locking components while maintaining the intermediate locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way valve acts as an intermediary element between the locking pin and the fluid flow control. It mediates the interaction by allowing fluid to pass in one direction while being controlled by the locking pin's position, enabling the single locking pin to effectively manage multiple flow paths without requiring two separate locking mechanisms.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the one-way valve is fixed by connecting clasps at both axial ends, then the valve is secured, but the fatigue strength at the contact between the movable portion and stopper decreases under oil pressure impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the connecting clasps from the one-way valve structure and instead integrates the valve directly into the rotor blade. This extraction of the external fixation method eliminates the stress concentration points at the clasp connections, thereby preventing fatigue failure while maintaining stable valve positioning through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The one-way valve is nested within the rotor blade structure, with the valve body formed as part of the rotor blade's internal geometry. This nesting integration allows the valve to be securely positioned without external fasteners, reducing stress concentration and improving fatigue resistance under oil pressure loading.
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
This design simplifies the structure, reduces the number of locking pins required, enhances reliability by avoiding deformation under high pressure, and maintains the phase adjuster's ability to move to a middle position effectively.
Implementation Method 1
the one-way valve being provided at the second oil hole, when the locking pin is in the first position, the first oil hole is unblocked, the one-way valve is switched off and the second oil hole is blocked, when the locking pin is in the second position, the first oil hole is blocked by the locking pin, the one-way valve is switched on, and the second oil hole is unblocked
Implementation Method 2
the locking pin being located in the locking pin hole and capable of switching between a first position and a second position
Implementation Method 3
Pressurized fluid is supplied to different chambers of the camshaft phase adjuster to control the circumferential position of the rotor of the phase adjuster relative to the stator
Data Source
AI summary
A camshaft phase adjuster, which includes first and second oil holes and a locking pin hole formed in the rotor inner core, the first oil hole connecting an engine fluid passage and the first chamber, the second oil hole connecting the first and second chambers, and the first and second oil holes both passing through the locking pin hole. The locking pin is switchable between first and second positions. A one-way valve is provided at the second oil hole; when the locking pin is in the first position, the first oil hole is unblocked, the one-way valve is switched off and the second oil hole is blocked; and in the second position, the first oil hole is blocked, the one-way valve is switched on, and the second oil hole is unblocked. This allows an intermediate locking function.