Rocker System Cylinder Deactivation Valve Lift Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engine systems face challenges in efficiently managing cylinder deactivation and valve lift profiles for improved fuel efficiency and engine performance, particularly in low load conditions and during braking operations.
Innovation Solution
A rocker system for internal combustion engines that includes input and output rocker levers connected by valve lift switches, allowing for selective transfer of motion from camshaft lobes to valves and disconnection during cylinder deactivation or alternate lift profiles, enabling efficient valve control and improved engine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If cylinder deactivation is implemented by disconnecting rocker levers, then fuel efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional valve lift switches
Solution Approach 1:
The rocker lever system is designed to perform multiple functions: standard valve operation, cylinder deactivation, and compression release braking. The same rocker levers and valve lift switches that enable cylinder deactivation are also used to implement compression release braking by connecting different camshaft lobes to the output rocker lever, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines cylinder deactivation and compression release braking capabilities into a single integrated rocker lever system. The valve lift switches serve dual purposes by enabling both the disconnection of rockers for deactivation and the connection of different camshaft lobes for braking, merging multiple functions into one unified system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple camshaft lobes are connected to the same output rocker lever, then compression release braking is enabled, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve lift switch acts as an intermediary device that selectively connects different camshaft lobes (first and second input rocker levers) to the output rocker lever. This intermediary mechanism simplifies control by providing a single switching element that manages multiple connection states, enabling both standard operation and compression release braking without complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If valve lift switches are used to connect and disconnect rocker levers, then cylinder deactivation is achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve lift switch is designed to be self-actuating through the existing camshaft lobe geometry and rocker lever motion. The switching mechanism utilizes the natural movement of the camshaft lobes to automatically connect and disconnect the rocker levers, eliminating the need for external actuators or complex control systems, thereby simplifying manufacturing.
Data Source
AI summary
An internal combustion engine system includes an engine with a plurality of pistons housed in respective ones of a plurality of cylinders. A valve train is provided for opening and closing intake and exhaust valves of the cylinders during nominal engine operations. The valve train is also configured for cylinder deactivation and to provide one or more selected lift profiles for opening and closing of the intake and/or exhaust valves.