Solenoid Positioning for Variable Valve Mechanisms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Straddle-type vehicles equipped with variable valve mechanisms face challenges in maintaining rider comfort due to increased dimensions and exposure of solenoids to external elements, which can lead to damage and discomfort during operation.
Innovation Solution
The solenoid is positioned to move in the left and right direction of the vehicle, and is disposed within the body frame's pivot range, reducing the need for a larger solenoid and protecting it from external hazards while maintaining compact dimensions under the seat.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the solenoid is disposed to the side of the cylinder with the output shaft moving parallel to the cylinder axis, then less space is needed in the left and right direction, but the separate cam requires a link mechanism which increases the solenoid size and left-right dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the link mechanism from the system by positioning the solenoid output shaft to move directly in the left-right direction without requiring intermediate linkages. The separate cam is positioned to be directly actuated by the solenoid output shaft, eliminating the need for complex link mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the dimensional orientation of the solenoid output shaft from a configuration requiring link mechanisms to one where the output shaft moves directly in the left-right direction. This dimensional reorientation allows direct actuation of the separate cam, simplifying the mechanism while maintaining compact solenoid placement.
2Force
If a larger solenoid is installed to the side of the engine, then the drive force is sufficient, but the dimensions in the left and right direction increase at the portion around the seat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the solenoid specifically in the front-to-rear direction between the cylinder and the frame, rather than expanding it in the left-right direction. This localized placement allows the solenoid to maintain sufficient drive force while keeping the critical left-right dimension under the seat compact, thus resolving the contradiction between force requirement and dimensional constraint.
3Ease of operation
If the solenoid is exposed in a side view of the vehicle, then it is accessible, but stones and dirty water can strike or adhere to the solenoid during driving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the solenoid within the existing structural framework of the vehicle, specifically positioning it between the cylinder and the frame within the pivoting range. This nested configuration provides natural protection from external elements like stones and dirty water while maintaining operational accessibility, as the solenoid remains integrated into the engine assembly rather than being externally exposed.
4Reliability
If the dimensions in the left and right direction increase at the portion around the seat, then the solenoid can be protected, but rider comfort decreases due to restricted movement space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent protects the solenoid by utilizing the front-to-rear dimension and the pivoting range of the engine rather than expanding in the left-right dimension. The solenoid is positioned within the pivoting range of the engine assembly, allowing it to be shielded from external elements while maintaining compact left-right dimensions that preserve rider comfort and movement 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 configuration allows for reduced vehicle dimensions under the seat, enhanced rider comfort, and protection of the solenoid from debris and water, ensuring efficient operation and reduced risk of damage.
Implementation Method 1
The variable valve mechanism includes a solenoid. The solenoid has an output shaft. The output shaft is capable of moving in a reciprocating manner in the left and right direction of the vehicle.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a straddle-type vehicle that comprises a variable valve mechanism and in which an engine unit is disposed so as to be capable of pivoting with respect to the body frame, a solenoid included in the variable valve mechanism is protected while rider comfort is maintained. This straddle-type vehicle (10) comprises an engine unit (22). The engine unit (22) comprises the variable valve mechanism (70). The variable valve mechanism (70) included a solenoid (72). The solenoid (72) has an output shaft (72A). The solenoid (72) is disposed between a cylinder (56) and a frame component (14D) of either a left frame component (14C) or a right frame component (14D) in a plan view of the vehicle. The output shaft (72A) can move in a reciprocating manner in the left and right direction of the vehicle. The solenoid (72) is superposed with an inclined frame component (32C) of the frame component (14D) in a side view of the vehicle, within the pivoting range of the engine unit (22).