DEVELOPMENT OF A SWITCHING ROLLER FINGER FOLLOWER FOR CYLINDER DEACTIVATION IN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINES

摘要

A system for selectively deactivating engine valves of a cylinder of an internal combustion engine is disclosed. It employs switching rocker assemblies between the engine valves and rotating cam lobes. The current design is able to operate using a single cam lobe per valve. The rocker assembly employs first arm pivotally attached to a second arm at one end. The first arm engages the valve and the second arm has a roller bearing that engages the cam lobe. A latch causes the first and second arm to move in unison following the cam surface, when latched. When unlatched, the second arm follows and moves according to the rotating cam surface, but the first arm does not follow and does not actuate the valve, thereby deactivating the cylinder.