Center Biased Spool Valve Actuator for Engine Performance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve train systems for internal combustion engines lack precise control over valve lift profiles, leading to inefficiencies in engine performance, especially under varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A valve actuator assembly featuring a housing with interconnected spool valves and feedback channels, controlled by on/off valves and a solenoid actuator, which allows for precise positioning and control of a poppet valve, enabling tailored valve lift profiles and improved engine performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a camless valve train is used to provide valve lift profiles tailored to specific engine operating conditions, then engine performance is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for precise control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control through feedback channels that monitor valve position and return this information to the spool valve assembly. This allows the system to automatically adjust valve lift profiles based on actual operating conditions, maintaining optimal engine performance while reducing the need for complex external control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses hydraulic principles through the spool valve assembly with feedback channels to control valve motion. The hydraulic feedback mechanism provides precise, automatic positioning of the poppet valve, enabling tailored valve lift profiles without requiring complex mechanical control systems.
2Measurement precision
If precise control over valve lift profiles is implemented, then engine performance under varying operating conditions is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feedback channels provide continuous monitoring of valve position and return this information to the spool valve assembly, enabling automatic precise control of valve lift profiles. This internal feedback mechanism achieves high measurement precision without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The spool valve assembly with feedback channels is self-regulating, automatically adjusting valve lift profiles based on real-time operating conditions. This self-service capability provides precise control while minimizing the need for additional complex control components.
3Manufacturing precision
If feedback channels are used to control spool valve position, then valve motion control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the feedback function directly into the spool valve assembly structure, combining the feedback channels with the valve body. This integration achieves precise valve motion control while minimizing additional complexity by eliminating separate feedback control components.
Solution Approach 2:
The spool valve assembly serves multiple functions: it controls fluid flow, positions the poppet valve, and processes feedback signals. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated feedback control mechanisms, thereby achieving high precision without proportionally increasing device complexity.
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 solution provides precise control over valve motion, enhancing engine performance by allowing tailored valve lift profiles and improved stability, leading to better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Implementation Method 1
A second spool valve spring and retainer may be at least partially disposed within the fourth fluid chamber and operate to bias the second spool valve toward the center biased position. A third spool valve spring and retainer may be at least partially disposed within the fifth fluid chamber and operate to bias the second spool valve toward the center biased position.
Implementation Method 2
An actuator operatively cooperates with the first spool valve to position the first spool valve to selectively allow fluid flow into and out of the second spool valve
Implementation Method 3
A driving channel interconnects the second spool valve and the poppet valve, while an intermediate channel interconnects the first spool valve and the second spool valve
Data Source
AI summary
A valve actuator assembly for an engine includes a movable poppet valve, and movable first and second spool valves. The assembly also includes an intermediate channel interconnecting the first and second spool valve, a driving channel, and a first and second feedback channel interconnecting the second spool valve and the poppet valve. The valve actuator assembly includes an actuator cooperating with the first spool valve to position the first spool valve to selectively allow high pressure fluid flow to the second spool valve and the driving channel to position the engine valve. The valve actuator assembly further includes a first and second on/off valve in respective fluid communication with the first feedback channel and the second feedback channel to selectively exhaust the first and second feedback channel to control motion of the second spool valve. The second spool valve includes a detent feature operable to maintain the second spool valve in a center biased position.