Nested Camshaft Ram Unit for Compact Axial Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing camshaft adjustment devices require multiple plungers and extensive installation space due to their structural complexity, which complicates maintenance and operational reliability.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part ram unit with different penetration depths and control grooves allows for selective axial adjustment of the camshaft using a single axial assembly location, eliminating the need for multiple axially spaced rams and enabling easy maintenance through an electromagnetic actuating device with separately drivable armature units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple plungers are used to achieve camshaft adjustment at different axial positions, then the adjustment functionality is improved, but the device complexity and installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested plungers where an inner plunger is positioned within an outer plunger. The inner plunger has a first engagement section that engages a first control groove, while the outer plunger has a second engagement section that engages a second control groove. This nesting arrangement allows multiple adjustment functions to be achieved within a single axial location, eliminating the need for multiple separate plungers spaced axially apart, thereby reducing device complexity and installation space while maintaining full adjustment functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The combined plunger assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: the inner plunger provides first adjustment functionality through its engagement with the first control groove, while the outer plunger provides second adjustment functionality through its engagement with the second control groove. This multi-functional design consolidates what would traditionally require separate components into a single integrated unit, resolving the contradiction between functionality and complexity
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple axially spaced rams are provided for camshaft adjustment, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the installation space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional axial arrangement of multiple plungers to a multi-dimensional nested configuration. By placing plungers concentrically one within another rather than spacing them axially, the solution achieves multiple adjustment positions and precisions without increasing the axial footprint. This dimensional reorganization allows precise multi-position camshaft adjustment while minimizing installation space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The nested plunger configuration enables multiple engagement sections to occupy the same axial location but different radial positions. The inner plunger engages the first control groove while the outer plunger engages the second control groove, both at the same axial assembly location. This nesting approach achieves precise multi-position adjustment functionality without requiring extended axial installation space
3Area of stationary object
If a single ram unit with different penetration depths is used, then the installation space is reduced, but the ease of operation for selective adjustment may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger assembly is segmented into distinct functional sections: the inner plunger with its first engagement section for the first control groove, and the outer plunger with its second engagement section for the second control groove. Each section can be independently actuated by separate electromagnetic actuators, enabling selective operation. This segmentation maintains ease of selective adjustment while allowing compact nesting that reduces installation space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs electromagnetic actuators that can dynamically and independently control the extension and retraction of each plunger section. This dynamic control capability allows the system to selectively engage either the first control groove, the second control groove, or both simultaneously, providing operational flexibility equivalent to or exceeding multiple separate rams while occupying less installation space
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 solution simplifies the design, reduces installation space requirements, and enhances operational reliability by allowing the camshaft to be adjusted through various positions without additional axial installation space, improving maintenance efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic actuating device, which assigns an armature unit to each ram—more preferably separately drivable or movable
Data Source
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AI summary
It relates to a device for camshaft adjustment of an internal combustion engine with an axially displaceable lift profile element, wherein a control unit has a tappet unit (10, 12) designed for controllable engagement in the lift profile element, wherein the lift profile element forms a first control groove which is designed to interact with the tappet unit in a first penetration depth to describe a first axial movement of the lift profile element, the lift profile element forms a second control groove with a second penetration depth different from the first penetration depth to describe a second axial movement of the lift profile element, and the lift profile element has a third control groove adjacent to and/or partially overlapping with the first and the second control groove, and the third control groove describes a third axial movement of the camshaft.