Camshaft Phaser Valve Assembly for Compact High-Speed Hydraulic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current camshaft phaser control valves face challenges in achieving a compact design while maintaining efficient rotation speed, as existing solutions consume hydraulic power and struggle with permeability/size ratio compatibility, leading to space constraints in internal combustion engines.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a hydraulic element and electromagnetic actuator that includes a valve assembly with integrated valves, vanes, and flexible arms, allowing for fluid communication control between advance, retard, and supply ports, optimizing fluid flow and reducing hydraulic power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact camshaft phaser design is implemented, then the space available for the phaser is reduced, but the rotation speed and performance of the phaser deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly is segmented into multiple independent check valves (first check valve, second check valve, third check valve) that can be individually optimized for their specific functions. This segmentation allows each valve to be precisely sized and positioned to minimize overall assembly volume while maintaining optimal flow characteristics for rotation speed control.
Solution Approach 2:
The check valves are nested within a compact valve assembly structure where the first check valve, second check valve, and third check valve are arranged in a nested or closely integrated configuration. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to occupy overlapping or adjacent spaces, achieving a compact overall footprint without compromising the rotational performance of the camshaft phaser.
2Speed
If the permeability/size ratio of valves is increased to improve rotation speed, then the valve size must be increased, but this increases the overall phaser dimensions beyond available space
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the valve assembly have different permeability characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The first check valve, second check valve, and third check valve are positioned to control oil flow to specific chambers (advance chamber, retard chamber) with locally optimized permeability/size ratios. This allows high rotation speed to be achieved through localized high-permeability regions without requiring the entire valve assembly to be large.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve assembly utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement to achieve optimal flow characteristics. By arranging the check valves in a nested or multi-level configuration rather than a simple linear arrangement, the design achieves the required permeability/size ratio through vertical or radial stacking, thereby maintaining a compact overall footprint while providing sufficient flow area for high rotation speed.
3Volume of moving object
If existing valve technologies are used, then the phaser design becomes less compact, but the complexity of the hydraulic system increases due to power consumption requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The check valves are designed to automatically control oil flow direction and pressure without requiring external actuators or complex control systems. The first check valve, second check valve, and third check valve self-regulate the hydraulic flow to the advance and retard chambers based on pressure differentials, eliminating the need for additional solenoid valves or electronic control circuitry. This self-service approach maintains phaser compactness while avoiding increased hydraulic system complexity.
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
The control device effectively locks or releases the rotor of the camshaft phaser, enhancing compactness and rotation speed by optimizing fluid flow and reducing hydraulic power consumption, addressing the limitations of existing valve technologies.
Implementation Method 1
a electromagnetic actuator (14) connected to the slide assembly (30) of the hydraulic element (16) which can move along a longitudinal axis (X) between
Implementation Method 2
The camshaft phasers are controlled by hydraulic systems that use lubricating oil pressurized by the oil pump
Implementation Method 3
when the pressure in the advance chamber is greater than the pressure in the retard chamber, the rotor rotates in the advance direction
Implementation Method 4
a valve assembly comprising a first valve (70), a second valve (71) and a third valve (73)
Data Source
AI summary
A device for controlling a camshaft phaser includes a hydraulic element with a body, a slide assembly having a slide body, and a valve assembly with a first valve, a second valve, and a third valve. The device also includes an actuator which moves along a longitudinal axis between 1) a first position in which the first valve opens or closes a first fluid communication, 2) a second position in which the second valve and the tray open or close a second fluid communication, and 3) a third position in which the third valve and the slide body open or close a third fluid communication between a retard port and a retard chamber.