Integrated Cylinder Head Cover Module for Valve Train Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex and costly assembly process of separate cylinder head, brick, and cover in internal combustion engines requires a tight seal and significant engine space, leading to increased complexity and size, which hinders efficient operation and space utilization.
Innovation Solution
Integration of the brick and cylinder head cover into a single cylinder head cover module with passageways and receiving features for valve train components, reducing the number of components to be assembled and sealed, and incorporating hydraulic actuated valves within the module.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If separate cylinder head, brick, and cover are used, then each component can be optimized independently, but the assembly process becomes complex and costly requiring tight sealing between multiple parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cylinder head cover and brick into a single integrated module that houses the valve train components. This merging eliminates the need for separate sealing interfaces between the cover and brick, thereby reducing assembly complexity and the number of potential leak paths while maintaining the ability to optimize the integrated module as a complete assembly unit
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate parts (cylinder head, brick, cover) are stacked, then each part can be manufactured independently, but the stack uses significant engine space
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of the cover and brick into a single module reduces the overall vertical height of the valve train assembly by eliminating the need for separate stacked components and their associated sealing flanges. This space-saving design allows for more efficient engine packaging while the modular nature of the integrated unit still permits independent manufacturing and assembly
3Reliability
If a tight seal is required between multiple parts, then leakage is prevented, but the assembly process becomes more difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the cover and brick into a single piece with internal passageways and chambers, thereby eliminating the external sealing interface that would require gaskets, sealants, or precision mating surfaces. The single-piece construction inherently prevents leakage at the former interface while simplifying the assembly process, as the internal fluid paths are formed within the monolithic structure
Data Source
AI summary
An internal combustion engine includes a cylinder block, a cylinder head and a cylinder head cover module attached to the cylinder head. The cylinder head cover module includes passageways and a plurality of receiving features for valve train components. A housing may be integrally formed with the cylinder head cover module. The cylinder head cover module may include components of a non-integrated valve control system and may be used in either an inline or a V-shaped engine.