Electrically-Actuated VCT Lock Solenoid Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable camshaft timing systems in internal combustion engines require electric motors to maintain angular positions, which consume power and have inefficiencies, particularly in maintaining the angular position of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft without relying on electric motors.
Innovation Solution
An electrically-actuated camshaft phaser with a planetary gear assembly and an electrically-actuated lock, utilizing a solenoid to selectively engage a mechanical connection that prevents relative motion between the camshaft and crankshaft, allowing for locking of the angular position without continuous power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric motor is used to maintain the angular position of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft, then the angular position can be maintained, but power is consumed continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two states: an unlocked state where the planetary gear assembly allows camshaft rotation, and a locked state where the solenoid engages to mechanically lock the camshaft to the crankshaft. This dynamic state change eliminates continuous power consumption by only engaging the locking mechanism when position maintenance is required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the continuous electrical actuation system with a mechanical locking system. The solenoid actuates a locking member that mechanically connects the camshaft to the crankshaft through the planetary gear assembly, substituting continuous electrical power consumption with a passive mechanical lock that requires no power once engaged
2Use of energy by moving object
If a solenoid is used to selectively lock the mechanical connection, then power consumption is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The planetary gear assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the variable camshaft timing mechanism during normal operation and simultaneously serves as the locking mechanism structure when the solenoid engages. The locking member integrates with existing planetary gear components rather than requiring entirely separate locking hardware, reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member acts as an intermediary element that connects the solenoid actuation to the mechanical locking function. This intermediary component translates the solenoid's linear motion into the rotational locking action needed to secure the camshaft position, providing a clear and simple actuation path
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
Enables efficient maintenance of the angular position between the camshaft and crankshaft, reducing power consumption and improving engine efficiency by selectively locking the mechanical connection using a solenoid, thereby preventing unnecessary angular displacement.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid, wherein the electric motor controls the relative angular position of the crankshaft relative to the camshaft and the solenoid selectively moves a mechanical connection into locking engagement
Data Source
AI summary
An electrically-actuated camshaft phaser including an electrically-actuated lock that includes a planetary gear assembly having a camshaft ring gear configured to be connected to a camshaft, a sprocket ring gear configured to receive rotational input from a crankshaft, and one or more planet gears engaging the camshaft ring gear and the sprocket ring gear, wherein the planetary gear assembly changes the angular position of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft; an electric motor, coupled to the planetary gear assembly, and a solenoid, wherein the electric motor controls the relative angular position of the crankshaft relative to the camshaft and the solenoid selectively moves a mechanical connection into locking engagement thereby preventing relative movement between the camshaft relative to the crankshaft.