Variable-Lift Valve Train Module for Engine Cylinder Heads
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable-lift valve train modules for internal combustion engines are difficult to assemble and require significant installation space, with high power requirements and complex handling due to long push rods and separate electric actuators, limiting their versatility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A preassembled module with a base plate, electric linear actuator, and a slide plate that can be moved longitudinally via a linear guide, featuring a retaining wall with actuation fingers and a restoring spring mechanism, allowing for easy installation and reduced energy consumption, suitable for a wide range of engine types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a long push rod with separate electric actuator is used to actuate multiple exhaust valves, then the actuation of series of gas exchange valves is achieved, but the installation space is increased and handling becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the long push rod into multiple separate modules, each with its own electric actuator. Instead of one long actuator serving multiple valves, each valve or small group of valves has its own compact module, reducing the overall installation space and simplifying handling while maintaining actuation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a longitudinal arrangement (long push rod extending along the cylinder head) to a more compact three-dimensional module design where the actuator, push rod, and mounting structure are integrated in a compact volume, reducing the footprint in the cylinder head.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a long push rod is used for actuating multiple valves, then series actuation is achieved, but the handling and assembly become laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the valve actuation system into independent modules, each comprising a push rod and electric actuator. This segmentation allows each module to be pre-assembled and tested separately, then installed as a complete unit, dramatically simplifying the assembly process and reducing labor requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary assembly of the actuator with the push rod and mounting components into a complete module before installation in the engine. This pre-assembly allows for quality control and simplification of the final installation step, where the entire module is installed as one unit rather than assembling multiple separate components in the engine bay.
3Adaptability or versatility
If simultaneous actuation of series of gas exchange valves is implemented, then multi-valve control is achieved, but the power requirement becomes high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the valve actuation into separate modules, each with its own electric actuator. This segmentation allows for independent control of each module, enabling selective actuation of individual valves or groups of valves based on engine operating conditions, thereby reducing the total power requirement compared to simultaneous actuation of all valves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables partial actuation where not all valves need to be actuated simultaneously. The control system can selectively activate only the necessary modules based on engine load, speed, and operating mode, reducing power consumption while maintaining the capability for full valve control when needed.
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 module simplifies assembly and handling, reduces energy requirements, and provides a universal solution for actuating rocker arms, enabling easy transportation and automated or manual installation, while minimizing installation space and energy usage.
Implementation Method 1
electric linear actuator (4) lying on the top side (3)
Implementation Method 2
restoring spring means (18) for moving the slide plate (7) in the other longitudinal direction
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a preassembled module of a variable-lift valve train for an internal combustion engine. The module includes an electric linear actuator that lies on a top side of a base plate of the module. A slide plate, movable by the electric linear actuator by means of a linear guide, also lies on the top side of the base plate. A retaining wall extends under a bottom side of the base plate and has two actuation fingers. A free end of each actuation finger includes a contact surface for moving a coupling slide of a switchable rocker arm. In a region of an outer transverse side of the slide plate, a contact wall arranged in front of the electric linear actuator extends upward. The contact wall contacts an actuation pin of the electric linear actuator to move the slide plate in a longitudinal direction.