Valve Train Device Single Contour Axial Displacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing valve train devices for internal combustion engines require significant axial installation space and are not cost-effective, as they necessitate multiple contours and actuators for axial displacement of cam elements.

Innovation Solution

A valve train device design that utilizes a single mechanical displacement element interacting with a single contour of the cam element to achieve axial displacement in both directions, eliminating the need for a second contour and employing a gearwheel mechanism mounted on an eccentric shaft for efficient actuation, thereby reducing space and cost while maintaining effective valve actuation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple contours and actuators are used for axial displacement of cam elements, then reliable bidirectional displacement is achieved, but axial installation space increases and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliable bidirectional displacementVSAvoidaxial installation space
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the functions of multiple contours and actuators into a single contour and a single mechanical displacement element. The cam element features one contour that interacts with the displacement element to enable bidirectional axial displacement, eliminating the need for separate contours and actuators for each direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single mechanical displacement element is designed to perform multiple functions: it can displace the cam element in both axial directions (first and second axial directions) by interacting with the single contour. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple contours and actuators are used for axial displacement of cam elements, then reliable bidirectional displacement is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereliable bidirectional displacementVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple discrete components (multiple contours and multiple actuators) into a unified system with a single contour and a single mechanical displacement element. This reduction in component count directly lowers device complexity and manufacturing cost while preserving the reliability of bidirectional displacement functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Length of stationary object

If a single mechanical displacement element interacts with a single contour, then axial installation space is reduced and device complexity is reduced, but the ability to achieve bidirectional displacement must be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaxial installation spaceVSAvoidbidirectional displacement capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mechanical displacement element is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to interact with the single contour to produce displacement in both axial directions. The element can switch between different operational states or positions during its cycle, enabling it to push the cam element in opposite directions without requiring separate actuators for each direction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 results in a compact, cost-effective valve train device that efficiently actuates valves with reduced axial installation space, utilizing a single switching unit for both axial directions, enhancing the operational efficiency and reducing the overall weight of the system.

Implementation Method 1

a gearwheel mechanism mounted on an eccentric shaft for efficient actuation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Implementation Method 2

a gearwheel mechanism mounted on an eccentric shaft

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEccentric: Eccentric

Data Source

PatentUS10801376B2Valve train device
Publication Date: 2020.10.13 MERCEDES BENZ GROUP AG
  • US10801376B2 patent drawing
  • US10801376B2 patent drawing
  • US10801376B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A valve train device, particularly for an internal combustion engine, includes a camshaft, a cam element able to be displaced axially on the camshaft, and a mechanical displacement element which is provided on the camshaft for the purpose of axially displacing the cam element. The mechanical displacement element is provided to move the cam element by interaction with only a single contour of the cam element in a first and a second axial direction.