초록 ▼

A lost motion variable valve actuation system utilizing a single solenoid valve or trigger valve to vary the timing of the intake and exhaust valves for a cylinder of an internal combustion engine. The solenoid controls the oil supply to the tappets, which in turn, determine valve motion in response

A lost motion variable valve actuation system utilizing a single solenoid valve or trigger valve to vary the timing of the intake and exhaust valves for a cylinder of an internal combustion engine. The solenoid controls the oil supply to the tappets, which in turn, determine valve motion in response to a camshaft lobe The system allows independent control of each valve and provides for advanced features such as enhanced intake air swirl, two-valve or four-valve operation and staggered valve opening. The invention provides for valve operation even in the event of a total loss of system hydraulic pressure. The invention provides the practical benefits of a fully-variable system while preserving the security and reliability of a mechanical, cam-driven valve train. The invention provides for filling the exhaust and intake tappets independently without connecting their respective hydraulic circuits.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A valve actuation system for a cylinder of an internal combustion engine, the cylinder having an intake valve and an exhaust valve, said valve actuation system comprising:an intake valve train for providing motion to operate the intake valve;an exhaust valve train for p

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A valve actuation system for a cylinder of an internal combustion engine, the cylinder having an intake valve and an exhaust valve, said valve actuation system comprising:an intake valve train for providing motion to operate the intake valve;an exhaust valve train for providing motion to operate the exhaust valve;an intake valve hydraulic actuator that selectively responds to motion of said intake valve train and causes the intake valve to open;an exhaust valve hydraulic actuator that selectively responds to motion of said exhaust valve train and causes the exhaust valve to open;a control valve for controlling the supply of hydraulic fluid of said intake valve hydraulic actuator and said exhaust valve hydraulic actuator to control the operation of said intake valve hydraulic actuator and said exhaust valve hydraulic actuator in response to the motion of said intake valve train and said exhaust valve train; and whereinthe intake valve hydraulic actuator comprises a first master piston, a first slave piston, and a first variable volume fluid chamber formed between said first master and slave pistons; andthe exhaust valve hydraulic actuator comprises a second master piston, a second slave piston, and a second variable volume fluid chamber formed between said second master and slave pistons.