Continuous Variable Valve Timing Apparatus Reducing Complexity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing continuous variable valve timing systems are complex and costly due to their intricate construction, which complicates optimal valve operation based on engine speed, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing costs.

Innovation Solution

A simplified continuous variable valve timing apparatus featuring a camshaft, cam device, inside bracket, lifter, control shaft, and guide portion, allowing for variable valve timing and reduced size, enabling optimal valve operation with minimal modifications to existing engines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If general CVVT apparatus is used to change valve timing, then valve timing can be adjusted according to engine speed, but the construction becomes complicated and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalve timing adjustment capabilityVSAvoidconstruction complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the camshaft and cam device into an integrated unit where the cam device is directly mounted on the camshaft. This merging eliminates the need for separate timing adjustment mechanisms while maintaining the ability to vary valve timing continuously through the eccentric control shaft that directly influences cam position relative to the camshaft rotation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The control shaft serves multiple functions: it controls the timing of both intake and exhaust valves simultaneously, and its eccentric position determines the valve opening duration. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in traditional CVVT systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If multiple components are used for valve timing control, then precise timing adjustment is achieved, but the valve train size increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalve timing precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The inside bracket integrates multiple support and positioning functions into a single component that holds both the cam device and connects to the control mechanism, reducing the total number of parts and simplifying assembly processes while maintaining precise timing control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The valve timing control is segmented into independent functional modules: the camshaft for rotation, the cam device for valve actuation, and the control shaft for timing adjustment. This modular segmentation allows for easier manufacturing and assembly while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If complex valve timing system is implemented, then optimal valve operation is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalve operation optimizationVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The eccentric control shaft automatically adjusts the cam position relative to the camshaft based on its rotational position, eliminating the need for complex external control mechanisms. The system self-regulates valve timing through the mechanical relationship between the control shaft's eccentricity and the cam device position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The inside bracket acts as an intermediary component that transmits the control shaft's positional adjustments to the cam device, providing a simple mechanical linkage that achieves precise timing control without requiring complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 apparatus reduces the size of the valve train, enhances productivity, and lowers production costs by allowing for efficient valve timing adjustments based on engine operation conditions without excessive modification, while maintaining optimal valve performance.

Implementation Method 1

a slider pin connected to the camshaft may be rotatably inserted into the first sliding hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSliding friction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

the slider pin may include a pin body slidably inserted into the camshaft and a pin head rotatably inserted into the first sliding hole

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRotational motion:

Implementation Method 3

a cam key may be formed at the cam device, and a cam key pin may be rotatably inserted into the second sliding hole, wherein a cam key slot is formed on the cam key pin, and the cam key is slidably inserted into the cam key slot

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSliding friction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10208681B2Continuous variable valve timing apparatus and engine provided with the same
Publication Date: 2019.02.19 HYUNDAI MOTOR CO LTD
  • US10208681B2 patent drawing
  • US10208681B2 patent drawing
  • US10208681B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A continuous variable valve timing apparatus may include a camshaft, a cam device on which a cam is formed respectively and of which the camshaft is inserted thereto, wherein a relative phase angle with respect to the camshaft is variable, an inside bracket configured to transmit rotation of the camshaft to the cam device, a lifter in which the inside bracket is rotatably inserted therein and on which a cylinder opening and a shaft opening are formed thereon, a control shaft parallel to the camshaft and to which a control rod, inserted into the shaft opening, is eccentrically formed, a control cylinder on which a control rod opening where the control rod is inserted therein is formed and inserted into the cylinder opening, a guide portion guiding movement of the lifter and a controller selectively rotating the control shaft, wherein the lifter may move.