Variable Compression Ratio Camshaft Control Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing variable compression ratio engines lack a reliable method to transmit low-power electrical energy to control rods for adjusting their vertical position, which is crucial for optimizing engine efficiency and performance.

Innovation Solution

The integration of a camshaft with a sensor, rotational return spring, and intermediate transmission means connected to an electric motor, along with a rocker arm and pusher mechanism, allows for precise adjustment of the control rods' vertical position using mechanical and electrical means, enabling efficient transmission of movement between the electric motor and control rods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If mechanical transmission means are used to connect the electric motor to the control rod, then the vertical position of the control rod can be adjusted, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol rod position adjustmentVSAvoidtransmission mechanism structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces intermediate transmission means consisting of a camshaft with cams and follower elements that mediate between the electric motor and the control rod. This intermediary mechanism converts rotational motor movement into the required linear adjustment of the control rod, resolving the contradiction by providing a structured transmission path that balances complexity with operational capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces direct mechanical coupling with a cam-based mechanical substitution system. The camshaft and follower mechanism substitute for simple direct connection, enabling precise positional control through cam profile geometry while maintaining structural integration within the engine block.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If a camshaft with sensor and transmission means is integrated, then precise control of compression ratio is achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompression ratio control precisionVSAvoidcamshaft and transmission system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The camshaft assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a mechanical transmission element, incorporates position sensing capability, and provides the geometric transformation from rotational to linear motion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing complexity while achieving precise control.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the camshaft, sensor system, and transmission means into an integrated assembly. By combining these elements that would otherwise be separate components, the design achieves precise measurement and control functions while consolidating the structural complexity into a unified system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Use of energy by moving object

If low-power electrical means are used to adjust control rod position, then energy consumption is reduced, but the transmission of work to the control rod becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectric motor power consumptionVSAvoidwork transmission capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The cam mechanism provides dynamic mechanical advantage that varies with the cam profile. As the cam rotates, it dynamically transforms the low-power rotational input from the electric motor into the necessary linear force on the control rod, enabling effective work transmission despite the low power rating of the motor.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mechanical transmission system through the camshaft acts as a force multiplier, compensating for the low power output of the electrical means. The cam profile geometry provides the necessary mechanical advantage to overcome the force requirements of moving the control rod, effectively counterbalancing the power limitation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

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 enables precise control over the compression ratio, enhancing engine efficiency and performance by allowing for real-time adjustments based on load and speed variations, thereby improving overall engine management and operation.

Implementation Method 1

a camshaft which is connected to the electric motor by intermediate transmission means... acts on the vertical position of said control rod(s) by means of at least one pusher

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Implementation Method 2

a camshaft comprising a rotational return spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic potential energy: Spring

Implementation Method 3

an electric motor... connected to the electric motor by intermediate transmission means

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

a camshaft which comprises a sensor making it possible to inform the engine management system of the angular position of said camshaft

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPosition sensing:

Data Source

PatentEP1979595B1Electromechanical device for controlling a variable compression ratio engine
Publication Date: 2012.10.24 RABHI VIANNEY
  • EP1979595B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1979595B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1979595B1 patent drawingFigure 3~5

AI summary

The invention relates to an electromechanical device (800) which can be used to control the compression ratio of a variable compression ratio engine. The inventive device includes mechanical means for transmitting movement (801) between at least one electric engine (802) and at least one control rod (20) of a control jack (8) of a control device (12) for adjusting the vertical position of a control rack (7) of the variable compression ratio engine.