초록 ▼

A lost motion valve actuation system for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The system includes a motion feedback system (100) for detecting the motion and timing of a valve actuator (130) and an engine valve (140). By providing information on the condition of the engine during operation, t

A lost motion valve actuation system for an internal combustion engine is disclosed. The system includes a motion feedback system (100) for detecting the motion and timing of a valve actuator (130) and an engine valve (140). By providing information on the condition of the engine during operation, the motion feedback system (100) permits adjustment of the valve actuation system that can optimize operation or prevent engine damage. The motion feedback system may be used in a common rail or a lost motion valve actuation system. In alternate embodiments, the valve actuation system includes an accumulator (300) with an accumulator piston (310) whose motion is limited by an accumulator stop (330) or a control valve (200). The limited accumulator (300) controls the amount of lost motion in the valve actuation system to provide fail-safe operation in the event of electrical failure. The valve actuation system is operable for engine positive power, compression release braking, and exhaust gas recirculation modes of operation.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A valve actuation system for an internal combustion engine, said engine having at least one engine cylinder valve which is selectively openable, wherein said valve actuation system comprises:means for imparting force from a force source to selectively operate said at le

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A valve actuation system for an internal combustion engine, said engine having at least one engine cylinder valve which is selectively openable, wherein said valve actuation system comprises:means for imparting force from a force source to selectively operate said at least one engine valve, wherein said force imparting means includes a master piston for delivering motion from a cam;a fluid system connected to said force imparting means for transferring force to selectively operate and variably control the position of said at least one engine valve;a control valve connected to said fluid system;an accumulator connected to said fluid system for selectively absorbing fluid within said fluid system to vary the operation of said at least one valve, said accumulator having means for limiting the amount of said fluid within said accumulator, such that when said accumulator reaches its maximum fluid limit, said fluid is retained within said fluid system to maintain positive power operation of said engine in the event of failure of said control valve;means for actuating said at least one engine valve, in response to force imparted by said force imparting means through said fluid system, wherein said fluid system provides hydraulic control of lost motion between said at least one engine cylinder valve and said valve actuating means; anda motion feedback system for detecting braking and exhaust motion of said at least one engine valve in response to actuation of said at least one engine valve by said actuating means.