DE102018131428A1 - VALVE TIMING - Google Patents

Abstract

A valve timing controller (100) includes: a drive-side rotating member (20) that rotates in synchronism with a crankshaft (1) of an internal combustion engine (E); a driven-side rotating member (30) accommodated in the driving-side rotating member and integrally rotating with a camshaft (5) for opening and closing a valve (5V) coaxially with a rotational axis of the driving-side rotating member; a solenoid valve (40) that shifts a relative rotational phase between the driving-side and driven-side rotating members by supplying a working fluid of an advance chamber and a retard chamber fixed between the driving-side and driven-side rotating members; an intermediate lock mechanism (LU) that holds the relative rotational phase in an intermediate lock phase; a phase detecting section (N) that detects the relative rotational phase; and a control section (90) that controls the solenoid valve based on a detection signal of the phase detection section.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

This disclosure relates to a valve timing including a drive side rotating member that rotates in synchronization with a crankshaft, an output side rotating member that integrally rotates with a camshaft for opening and closing a valve, and an interlocking mechanism that has a relative rotational phase between the driving side rotating member and the driven side rotating member holds.

BACKGROUND

As a valve timing controller of the above-described configuration disclosed JP 2013-160095 A (Reference 1) A technology in which there is provided an interlocking mechanism having a restriction mechanism and a holding mechanism, and enabling a locked state and switching to the locked state by controlling a solenoid valve based on a detection result of a phase sensor relative rotational phase is set.

According to the technology described in Reference 1, in a case where a first lock member of the restriction mechanism reaches a limit release range after the solenoid valve has been set to a retard position and the holding mechanism has been released, a second condition (a condition in which locked state is released by the holding mechanism) by a controller for switching the solenoid valve to the advance position to a first state (a state in which a limitation of the limiting mechanism is released) is switched. In addition, in the case of the first state, a control aspect for switching to the locked state by the controller for switching the solenoid valve to the advance position in a case where the first lock member reaches a restriction area is shown.

As shown in Reference 1, a technology in which switching to the locked state is enabled by the control of the relative rotational phase between a driving-side rotating member and a driven-side rotating member by the solenoid valve and switching to the release of the locked state is very convenient since only installation of the valve timing in an existing oil passage is necessary without requiring a special lock control valve for controlling the interlock mechanism or a special oil passage for releasing the locked state.

The in the publication 1 However, the described technology executes the control for switching the solenoid valve to an advance position in a case where the first lock member of the restriction mechanism has reached the limit release range, but the first lock member reaches the restriction portion without executing the release of the locked state when a period of time the relative rotational phase is within the limit release range is short. Accordingly, since the solenoid valve is in the advance position, when the first lock member reaches the restriction portion, there is a fear that the locked condition is unintentionally established.

In addition, while the vehicle is running, when the solenoid valve is switched to the advance position while the relative rotational phase is held within the restriction range and switched to the locked state, control of an advance phase may not be performed. Therefore, in a situation where a positional state of the first lockup member is unknown, as long as the relative rotation phase is within the restriction range, fuel efficiency or responsiveness always decreases because lock release control, for example, switching the solenoid valve to the advance position after switching to the Retard position, is executed.

Therefore, there is a need for a valve timing controller that can efficiently perform a lock release determination while having a configuration that does not require a dedicated lock control valve and a dedicated oil passage for releasing the locked state.

SUMMARY

A feature of a valve timing according to an aspect of this disclosure is that the valve timing includes: a drive-side rotating member that rotates in synchronization with a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine; an output side rotating member included in the driving side rotating member and integrally rotating with a cam shaft for opening and closing a valve of the internal combustion engine coaxially with a rotating shaft of the driving side rotating member; a solenoid valve that shifts a relative rotational phase between the drive-side rotating member and the driven-side rotating member by supplying a working fluid to an advance chamber and a retard chamber located between the drive-side Rotary component and the output-side rotary member are fixed; an interlocking mechanism that holds the relative rotational phase in an interlocking phase; a phase detecting section that detects the relative rotational phase; and a control section that controls the solenoid valve based on a detection signal of the phase detection section, wherein the intermediate lock mechanism includes a first lock mechanism provided with a first lock member supported by one of the drive side rotation member and the driven side rotation member, a first lock recess portion provided on the other and a first biasing member biasing the first locking member toward the first locking recess portion, and a second locking mechanism connected to a second locking member defined by one of the driving-side rotating member and the first rotary member output side rotary member is supported, a second locking recess portion, which on the other of the drive-side rotary member and the driven side Drehbaute il trained, and a second biasing member, which biases the second locking member in the direction of the second locking recess portion is formed, wherein the control portion has a lock release control portion, which is a controller for causing the solenoid valve, the working fluid one of the advance chamber and the retard to retract the first locking member from the first locking recess portion against the biasing force of the first biasing member and to shift the relative rotational phase from the intermediate locking phase in a first direction which becomes an advance direction or a retard direction, and after detecting that the relative rotational phase is one Sequence area, which is set from the Zwischenverriegelungsphase to a predetermined phase in the first direction exceeds, by the phase detection section, a control Be act to cause the solenoid valve to supply the working fluid to the other of the advance chamber and the retard chamber to retract the second locking member from the second locking recess section against a biasing force of the second biasing member, the lock release control section having a lock release determining section that determines based on a predetermined determination phase; Whether a locked state of the interlock mechanism is enabled or not.

In this configuration, the intermediate lock mechanism is formed with the first lock mechanism and the second lock mechanism, and for example, the solenoid valve is set to the advance position and releases the locked state of the first lock mechanism, the solenoid valve is switched to the retard position after the sequence range is exceeded by the relative rotation phase , and the locked state of the second lock mechanism is released. Therefore, the locked state of the interlocking mechanism can be released while the solenoid valve is configured to switch to an advance and a retard position and to supply the working fluid to the existing flow passage. Consequently, it is only necessary to incorporate the valve timing into the existing oil passage without the need for a dedicated lock control valve to control the interlock mechanism or a dedicated oil passage to release the locked condition.

Further, since the lock determination section of the configuration determines whether or not the locked state is unlocked based on a predetermined determination phase, the lock release can be reliably performed. In addition, while the vehicle is running, even in a situation where a positional state of the second lockup member is unknown, the lockup release control can be executed only when it is determined by the lockout release determination portion that the locked state has not been released, and so on a disadvantage due to deteriorated fuel efficiency or deteriorated responsiveness can be suppressed. Therefore, a valve timing controller can efficiently perform the lock release determination while having a configuration that does not require a dedicated lock control valve or a dedicated oil passage for releasing the locked state.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured such that the determination phase includes a first determination phase set in the first direction from the sequence region and a second determination phase that is in a second direction opposite to the first direction is set in the sequence area, is formed in the interlocking mechanism in the locked state, the first locking member is engaged with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is engaged with the second locking recess portion and the lock release determining portion determines that the locked state is released when the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting section is shifted in the second direction and exceeds the second determination phase after the relative rotational phase has been shifted from the interlocking phase in the first direction and has exceeded the first determination phase.

In this configuration, for example, in a case where the first direction is the advance direction and the second direction is the retard direction, based on the first determination phase set on an advance side of the sequence region and the second determination phase on a retard side of the Sequence range is set, executed the lock release determination. In other words, it may be determined from the first determination phase that the locked state of the first lock limiting mechanism is released by setting the solenoid valve to the advance position, and it can be determined from the second determination phase that the locked state of the second lock mechanism is released is by the solenoid valve is switched to the retard position.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured such that the determination phase is positioned with a third determination phase set in the first direction from the sequence area and a fourth determination phase positioned at a boundary on the side of the first direction in the sequence area , is formed in the interlocking mechanism in the locked state, the first locking member is engaged with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is engaged with the second locking recess portion and the lock release determining portion determines that the locked condition is released when a period of time until the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting section is shifted in the second direction opposite to the first direction and exceeds the fourth determination phase after the relative rotational phase e has been shifted from the intermediate lock phase in the first direction and has exceeded the third determination phase is longer than a first predetermined value.

In this configuration, for example, in a case where the first direction is the advance direction and the second direction is the retard direction based on the third determination phase set on the advance side of the sequence region and the fourth determination phase adjacent to the boundary the advance side of the sequence area is positioned, the lock release determination is executed. In other words, when the time period from the exceeding of the third determination phase to the exceeding of the fourth determination phase is longer than the first predetermined value, the solenoid valve may increase the time period during which the solenoid valve is in the retard position until the relative rotational phase exceeds the sequence range again to the sequence area, ensure sufficient. Accordingly, the locked state of the second lock mechanism is reliably released.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured such that the determination phase is formed with a fifth determination phase set in the first direction of the sequence area, in the interlocking mechanism in the locked state, the first locking member is engaged with the first locking portion and the second lock member is engaged with the second lock recess portion, and the lock release determination portion determines that the locked condition is released when a time period during which the relative rotation phase detected by the phase detection portion is shifted from the intermediate lock phase in the first direction and is in a predetermined phase range set before and after the fifth determination phase is longer than a second predetermined value.

In this configuration, for example, in a case where the first direction is the advance direction based on the fifth determination phase set on the advance side of the sequence area, the lock release determination is performed. In other words, when the period of time during which the phase is in the predetermined phase range set before and after the fifth determination phase is longer than the second predetermined value, the solenoid valve may determine the period during which the solenoid valve is in the retard position until the relative rotational phase exceeds the sequence range and returns to the sequence area, ensure sufficient. Accordingly, the locked state of the second lock mechanism is reliably released.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured such that the valve timing controller further includes an outlet flow passage that discharges the working fluid acting on the second locking member to effect a lock switching operation in which the second locking member is engaged with the second locking recess portion when the relative rotation phase in the Sequence area is set, the determination phase with a sixth determination phase, which is set in the second direction opposite to the first direction of the sequence area, and a seventh determination phase, which is set in the first direction of the sequence area, in the interlocking mechanism in a state in which the locked state is released, the first locking member is not engaged with the first locking recess portion, and the second locking member is not engaged with the second locking recess portion and the lock release determining portion determines that the status has been switched to the locked state; when the relative rotational phase is not shifted in the first direction from the seventh determination phase and the control for causing the solenoid valve to receive the working fluid of the other of the advance chamber and the retard is performed in a state in which the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting section is positioned in the sequence area after being shifted from the sixth determination phase in the second direction.

In this configuration, for example, in a case where the first direction is the advance direction and the second direction is the retard direction, based on the sixth determination phase set on the retard side of the sequence area and the seventh determination phase being on an advance side of the Sequence area is set, executed the lock release determination, and in the sequence area, the working fluid, which acts on the second locking member, is discharged from the outlet flow channel. In other words, while the vehicle is running, after the relative rotational phase has been shifted in the retard direction from the sixth determination phase set on the retard side of the sequence area, the relative rotational phase in the advance direction is controlled, and accordingly, the second locking member engaged in the sequence area with the second locking recess portion engaged. In addition, when the first lock member is engaged with the first lock recess portion, the locked state is established, but when the relative rotational phase from the seventh determination phase set on the advance side of the sequence area is shifted to the advance side, the locked one becomes locked Condition not established. On the contrary, if the relative rotational phase has not shifted from the seventh determination phase to the advance timing, the probability of the locked state is high.

Incidentally, as in this configuration, when the relative rotational phase is not shifted from the seventh determination phase in the advance direction and the solenoid valve performs the control for supplying the working fluid to the retard chamber, the possibility that the first locking member is engaged with the first locking portion is determined, and thus it is determined that the locked state has not been released, and the lock release control is executed again. Conversely, even in a case where the relative rotational phase is in the sequence area, when the relative rotational phase is not shifted from the sixth determination phase in the retard direction, or when the relative rotational phase is shifted from the seventh determination phase in the advance direction, it is determined that the locked state has been released. Therefore, in a case where a retard control is performed from the sequence area, it is not necessary to perform the lock release control, and thus no deterioration of fuel efficiency or responsiveness occurs.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured to correct the first predetermined value based on a temperature of the working fluid.

According to another configuration, the valve timing may be configured to correct the second predetermined value based on a temperature of the working fluid.

According to the configuration, the first predetermined value (the second predetermined value) is corrected based on a temperature of the working fluid. In other words, in a case where the working fluid is engine oil, which is a viscous liquid, the viscosity of the engine oil increases as the temperature decreases, and it takes until the locked state is released. Therefore, by correcting the first predetermined value (the second predetermined value), the locked state is reliably released regardless of the viscosity.

list of figures

• 1 eine Konfigurationsansicht einer Ventilzeitsteuerung;
• 2 eine Schnittansicht entlang der Linie II-II in 1;
• 3 ein Blockschaltdiagramm eines Steuersystems;
• 4 ein Bilddiagramm in einem verriegelten Zustand eines Hauptverriegelungsmechanismus;
• 5 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus in einer Zwischenverri egel ungsphase;
• 6 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus in einer zweiten Stoppphase;
• 7 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus in einer Verriegelungsfreigabestartphase;
• 8 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus, der einen Spätverstellbetrieb gestartet hat;
• 9 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus, wenn der Spätverstellbetrieb fortgesetzt wird;
• 10 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus in einer ersten Stoppphase;
• 11 ein Betriebsbilddiagramm des Verriegelungsmechanismus, der einen Frühverstellbetrieb gestartet hat;
• 12 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung bei einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung zeigt;
• 13 ein Flussdiagramm einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung gemäß einem ersten Beispiel;
• 14 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung gemäß dem ersten Beispiel zeigt;
• 15 ein Flussdiagramm einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung gemäß einem zweiten Beispiel;
• 16 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung gemäß dem zweiten Beispiel zeigt;
• 17 ein Flussdiagramm einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung gemäß einem dritten Beispiel;
• 18 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung gemäß dem dritten Beispiel zeigt;
• 19 ein Flussdiagramm einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung gemäß einem vierten Beispiel;
• 20 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung gemäß dem vierten Beispiel zeigt;
• 21 ein Flussdiagramm einer Verriegelungsfreigabesteuerung gemäß einem fünften Beispiel; und
• 22 ein Zeitdiagramm, das eine Phasenverschiebung gemäß dem fünften Beispiel zeigt.

The above and additional features and characteristics of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Show it:

• 1 a configuration view of a valve timing;
• 2 a sectional view along the line II-II in 1 ;
• 3 a block diagram of a control system;
• 4 an image diagram in a locked state of a main locking mechanism;
• 5 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism in a Zwischenverri gelation phase;
• 6 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism in a second stop phase;
• 7 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism in a lock release start-up phase;
• 8th an operational diagram of the locking mechanism, which has started a retard operation;
• 9 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism when the retard operation is continued;
• 10 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism in a first stop phase;
• 11 an operational diagram of the locking mechanism that has started an advance operation;
• 12 a timing chart showing a phase shift in a lock release control;
• 13 a flowchart of a lock release control according to a first example;
• 14 a timing chart showing a phase shift according to the first example;
• 15 a flowchart of a lock release control according to a second example;
• 16 a timing chart showing a phase shift according to the second example;
• 17 a flowchart of a lock release control according to a third example;
• 18 a timing chart showing a phase shift according to the third example;
• 19 a flowchart of a lock release control according to a fourth example;
• 20 a timing chart showing a phase shift according to the fourth example;
• 21 a flowchart of a lock release control according to a fifth example; and
• 22 a timing chart showing a phase shift according to the fifth example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the disclosure will be described based on the drawings.

basic configuration

As in 1 to 3 1, a valve timing control unit A has an outer rotor 20 serving as a driving-side rotary member, an inner rotor 30 acting as a driven-side rotary member that is in the inner rotor 20 is received, and a solenoid valve or a solenoid valve 40 controlling hydraulic oil serving as a working fluid. In addition, has a valve timing 100 the valve timing control unit A and a control section 90 , the solenoid valve 40 controls, up.

The inner rotor 30 is with an intake camshaft 5 an internal combustion engine e connected, which is an internal combustion engine, and the outer rotor 20 is provided so that it with respect to the inner rotor 30 coaxial with a rotation axis X the intake camshaft 5 is rotatable. Further, between them are an advance chamber Ca and a retardation chamber cb as a fluid pressure chamber C educated.

The solenoid valve 40 the hydraulic oil leads one of the advance chamber Ca and the retardation chamber cb and at the same time displaces the relative rotational phase (hereinafter referred to as relative rotational phase) between the outer rotor 20 and the inner rotor 30 around the axis of rotation X in that the hydraulic oil is discharged from the other, and by this displacement becomes control of the opening and closing timing of an intake valve 5V realized. In addition, by controlling the hydraulic oil through the solenoid valve 40 the switching to the locked state in an interlock phase M and the release of the lock to release the locked state are realized.

As in 2 shown turns when the internal combustion engine e is in operation, the entire valve timing control unit A in the drive direction of rotation S , A direction in which the inner rotor 30 in one direction, the same as the driving direction S is, with respect to the outer rotor 20 is postponed, as a Frühverstellrichtung Sat. and a direction of displacement opposite to the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. is considered a retardation direction sb designated. Further, the opening and closing timing of the intake valve becomes 5V by moving in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. advanced, and the opening and closing timing of the intake valve 5V is due to the shift in the retard direction sb delayed. In other words, by the shift in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. becomes a crank angle at the time of opening the intake valve 5V shifted from a reference angle in a negative direction, and by the shift in the retard direction sb becomes the crankshaft angle at the time of opening the intake valve 5V shifted from the reference angle in a positive direction.

The valve timing control unit A has an interlock mechanism LU on which the relative rotation phase in the in 2 shown intermediate locking phase M holds. The interlock mechanism LU is with a main interlocking section Lm (an example of a second locking mechanism) and an auxiliary locking portion ls formed (an example of a first locking mechanism), and in an intermediate locking phase M the components reach an engaged state at the same time.

The interlock phase M is a phase in which the inlet valve 5V is set to the opening and closing timing, which is suitable for starting the internal combustion engine E. Therefore, if the internal combustion engine e is stopped, the control section performs 90 a controller for shifting the relative rotational phase to the intermediate lock phase M before stopping the internal combustion engine e and adjusting the interlock mechanism LU on the locked state by. On the other hand, when a feedback control on the relative rotational phase is performed after the start, a control for setting the interlocking mechanism becomes LU performed on an intermediate lock release state.

Internal combustion engine

The internal combustion engine E (an example of an internal combustion engine) incorporated in 1 is shown, is provided in a vehicle such as a car. The internal combustion engine E has a crankshaft 1 in a lower section and picks up a piston 3 in each of the four cylinder bores of an upper cylinder block 2 on. By connecting the piston 3 and the crankshaft 1 with each other by means of the connecting rod 4 forms the internal combustion engine e a machine with four cylinders. Further, the upper portion of the engine E is an intake camshaft 5 for opening and closing the inlet valve 5V and an exhaust camshaft (not shown).

A timing chain 7 is an output pinion 6 that in the crankshaft 1 the internal combustion engine e is formed, and a control pinion 22S the outer rotor 20 wound. Further, the pinion is also provided at a front end of the exhaust camshaft on the exhaust side, and a timing chain 7 is also wrapped around this sprocket.

A feed flow channel 8th through which the hydraulic oil from a hydraulic pump P that by the internal combustion engine e is supplied is in an engine configuration component 10 formed, which is the intake camshaft 5 rotatably supports. The hydraulic pump P carries lubricating oil, which is in the oil pan of the internal combustion engine e is stored, the solenoid valve 40 as the hydraulic oil via the supply flow channel 8th to.

Further, in the embodiment, the valve timing control unit A shown at the intake camshaft 5 is provided, the valve timing control unit A however, may occur with the exhaust camshaft or both the intake camshaft 5 be provided as well as the exhaust camshaft.

Valve timing control unit

As in 1 and 2 shown, the outer rotor 20 an outer rotor main body 21 , a front plate 22 and a back plate 23 passing through several fastening bolts 24 are integrated on. The control sprocket described above 22S is at the outer periphery of the front plate 22 educated. In the inner circumference of the outer rotor main body 21 are several (three) protruding sections 21T formed protruding toward an inner side in the radial direction are integrally formed.

The inner rotor 30 has a cylindrical inner rotor main body 31 who is in close contact with the preceding section 21T the outer rotor main body 21 stands, and several (three) blade sections 32 in a radial direction from the outer circumference of the inner rotor main body 31 projecting outward so as to be in contact with the inner circumferential surface of the outer rotor main body 21 are.

Several (three) fluid pressure chambers C are on the outer peripheral side of the inner rotor main body 31 at an intermediate position of the protruding portions 21T formed adjacent to each other in the rotational direction, and the fluid pressure chambers C be through the blade section 32 for setting the advance chamber Ca and the retardation chamber cb divided. There are also several (three) advance flow channels 33 that with the advance chamber Ca and multiple (three) retard flow channels 34 that with the retardation chamber cb communicate, in the inner rotor 30 educated.

As in 1 shown is the front plate 22 with an intermediate component 9 provided, and a torsion spring 28 for applying a biasing force between the intermediate member 9 and the outer rotor 20 is in the outer peripheral area of the intermediate member 9 intended. The torsion spring 28 causes the relative rotational phase, the biasing force in the advance direction Sa from the most retarded phase to the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M applies, and supports the shift in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. ,

Valve timing control unit: connecting bolt

As in 1 shown has the connecting bolt 50 a bolt main body 51 which is partially cylindrical, a bolt head portion 52 the outer end portion and a male threaded portion 53 of the inner end portion.

On the inside of the intake camshaft 5 is when a room 5T inside the shaft, in the part of the connecting bolt 50 is fitted, is formed, a female threaded portion with which the male threaded portion 53 of the connecting bolt 50 screwed, trained. The space 5T inside the shaft is in communication with the feed flow channel described above 8th in communication, and the hydraulic oil is from the hydraulic pump P fed.

On the inside of the bolt main body 51 is coaxial with the axis of rotation X from the bolt head portion 52 in the direction of the male threaded portion 53 aligned a slide chamber formed, and a slide (valve slide) 41 is recorded so that it is in one direction along the axis of rotation X is movable with respect to the slide chamber. The slider 41 the hydraulic oil leads the advance flow channel 33 and the retard flow channel 34 to or leaves it out of these by moving the position in the direction along the axis of rotation X will be changed. The outer end side (the direction of the bolt head section 52 ) of the slider 41 protrudes outward by the biasing force of a slider spring (not shown), and an outlet hole 41D for discharging the hydraulic oil is formed in a protruding end portion thereof.

In this configuration, by screwing the connecting bolt 50 into the female threaded portion of the intake camshaft 5 and performing the connection the intermediate component 9 , the inner rotor main body 31 and the intake camshaft 5 integrated with each other. In addition, by pressing the slider 41 in the direction along the axis of rotation X that from the hydraulic pump P in the room 5T in the interior of the shaft supplied hydraulic oil the Frühverstellströmungskanal 33 and the retard flow channel 34 be supplied.

magnetic valve

As described above, the solenoid valve 40 the slider 41 and a magneto-solenoid 44 on. The magneto-solenoid 44 is with a pestle 44a provided whose Vorstehausmaß is controlled by the supplied electrical power. At the solenoid valve 40 According to the embodiment, the amount of electric power of the solenoid solenoid becomes 44 controlled by a known PWM control, ie based on a duty cycle to the modulated of a pulse width.

By pressing the plunger 44a becomes the slider 41 to an advance position, which in 1 shown is a neutral position in which the slider 41 is pushed in by a predetermined amount of the advance position, and a retard position, in which the slider 41 is pressed further from the neutral position, actuated.

In addition, in the neutral position, the advance flow channel is 33 and the retard flow channel 34 closed, the hydraulic oil is not the Frühverstellkammer Ca and the retardation chamber cb supplied and discharged therefrom, and the relative rotational phase is maintained.

In addition, in the advance position, the hydraulic oil from the hydraulic pump P the advance flow channel 33 is supplied, and at the same time, the hydraulic oil from the Spätverstellströmungskanal 34 over the outlet hole 41D of the slider 41 omitted. Accordingly, the relative rotational phase in the advance direction Sat. postponed.

Further, in the retard position, the hydraulic oil from the hydraulic pump P the retard flow channel 34 supplied, and at the same time, the hydraulic oil from the Frühverstellkanal 33 over the outlet hole 41D of the slider 41 omitted. Accordingly, the relative rotational phase in the retard direction sb postponed.

Further, in the solenoid valve 40 by controlling the extent of protrusion of the plunger 44a also the amount of hydraulic oil, the Frühverstellkammer Ca and the retardation chamber cb is supplied or is omitted from this set.

Interlocking Mechanism: Main Interlocking Section

As in 2 and 4 shown, the main locking section Lm (the second locking mechanism) a guide hole 70 that in one of the several blade sections 32 parallel to the axis of rotation X is formed, and at the same time a main locking member 71 (an example of a second locking member), a main locking recess portion 72 (an example of a second locking recess portion) and a main lock spring 73 (an example of a second biasing member).

The main locking component 71 is displaceable in the guide hole 70 introduced. The main locking recess section 72 is in the form of a groove on the back plate 23 formed, so that an engaging portion 71b of the main locking component 71 is engaged. The main locking spring 73 is formed as a compression coil spring, which causes the biasing force to engage the engagement portion 71b with the main locking recess section 72 on the main locking component 71 acts.

The leadership hole 70 has a guide hole section 70a with a large diameter and a guide hole section 70b with a small diameter, which has a smaller diameter than the guide hole section 70a having a large diameter. The main locking component 71 is generally columnar and has a main body portion 71a in the guide hole section 70a with large diameter of the guide hole 70 is received, an engaging portion 71b in the guide hole section 70b small-diameter with a smaller diameter than that of the main body portion 71a is included, and a wavy section 71c with a smaller diameter than that of the engaging portion 71b at the intermediate position between them.

In the main locking component 71 is a first pressure receiving surface U1 on the end surface of the main body portion 71a between the main body portion 71a and the engaging portion 71b formed, and a second pressure receiving surface U2 is at the end portion on the projecting side of the engagement portion 71b educated.

The main locking recess section 72 has a width slightly wider than the diameter of the engaging portion 71b is, and is in an arcuate region about the axis of rotation X educated. Accordingly, in the engaging portion 71b in a state of engagement with the main locking recess portion 72 the shift of the relative rotational phase in the main boundary area possible. In addition, the main boundary area is an area with a sequence area G (described below) and a lock release area F (A range from an advance to the earliest advanced phase of the sequence range G ).

In the wing section 32 in which the leadership hole 70 is formed, are a first lock release flow channel 75 that with the guide hole section 70b communicates with a small diameter, and a second lock release flow channel 76 that with the guide hole section 70a with a large diameter in connection formed.

As in 5 to 7 shown, the engaging portion 71b a locking level J1 fully engaged with the main locking recess portion 72 is a lock limit level J2 immediately after leaving the main locking recess section 72 , as in 11 and a lock release level J3 that like in 9 and 10 shown further from the lock limit level J2 from the main locking recess section 72 retired, up.

In a case where the engaging portion 71b at the interlock level J1 is located, is the first lock release flow channel 75 with the first pressure receiving surface U1 in conjunction (see 5 ). In particular, in a case where the engaging portion 71b in an area that is different from the locking level J1 to the lock limit level J2 extends, the second lock release flow channel 76 through the main body portion 71a blocked and not in communication with the first pressure receiving surface U1 (please refer 5 to 8th and 11 ).

In addition, in a case where the engagement portion is 71b at the lock release level J3 located, the first lock release flow channel 75 with the second pressure receiving surface U2 and the second lock release flow channel 76 stands with the first pressure receiving surface U1 in conjunction (see 9 and 10 ).

The first lock release flow channel 75 is designed so that it has a first control port 75a leading to an inner surface of the back plate 23 at a position away from the guide hole 70 is retracted, is open, with a first retardation 75b can be connected. The first control opening 75a and the first retard opening 75b are with an in 2 formed position relationship formed.

The range of rotational phase resulting from the interlock phase M, which in 5 is shown in the phase related to the phase in 9 something that is prescheduled extends as the sequence area G designated (see 4 ). In the sequence area G is the first control port 75a with an outlet flow channel 23D that on the back plate 23 is trained in connection. In the sequence area G can, as the hydraulic oil, which causes the pressure at the first pressure receiving surface U1 acts, from the Strömungsauslasskanal 23D is omitted, the engaging portion 71b by the biasing force of the main lock spring 73 in engagement with the main locking recess portion 72 to be brought.

Further, the outlet flow passage is 23D with the outside space of the back plate 23 in conjunction, and the sequence area G is an angular range that is about several degrees (a crank angle of about 10 degrees from the interlock phase M to a predetermined phase (for example, -10 degrees) in the advance direction Sa).

The phase created by shifting the relative rotational phase from the advancing sequence of the sequence G in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. is obtained as the lock release area F (please refer 4 ) designated. In the lock release area F acts as the first late adjustment 75b with a first late adjustment groove 23R on the back plate 23 is formed, in communication, the pressure of the hydraulic oil, that of the retard cb is supplied to the first pressure receiving surface U1 , and the main locking component 71 becomes in a direction of retraction from the main locking recess portion 72 pressed (see 8th ).

In the second lock release flow channel 76 when the hydraulic oil is the retard flow channel 34 is supplied, the hydraulic oil at the same pressure as that of the Spätverstellströmungskanals 34 fed. From this configuration, the hydraulic oil can only from the second lock release flow channel 76 the first pressure receiving surface U1 supplied when the main locking member 71 at the in 9 shown lock release level J3 located.

Further, as a configuration for supplying the hydraulic oil to the second lock release flow passage 76 also use a flow channel configuration in which the second lock release flow channel 76 with the retard flow channel 34 and a flow channel configuration in which the second lock release flow channel 76 in conjunction with the retardation chamber cb stands.

As in 10 is a latch assist flow channel 22A in the form of a groove on the inner surface of the front plate 22 educated. In a case where the relative rotational phase is from the interlock phase M in the retard direction sb is shifted, is the lock support flow channel 22A with an opening part of the guide hole portion 70a with a large diameter. As in 2 shown is the lock assist flow channel 22A with a support groove 32a in the blade section 32 is formed, and accordingly, a part of the hydraulic oil is the guide hole portion 70a supplied in large diameter, however, to facilitate understanding is in 4 to 11 and the like, the lock assist flow passage 22A shown to be directly with the guide hole section 70a with large diameter, and the support groove 32a is not shown.

Accordingly, in a case where the relative rotational phase becomes out of the interlocked phase M is moved to the retardation, a part of the hydraulic oil, the Frühverstellkammer Ca is supplied from the lock assist flow channel 22A the guide hole section 70a supplied with large diameter and supports the engagement of the main locking member 71 with the main locking recess section 72 ,

Furthermore, as in 4 shown a connecting section 25 which communicates with the outside space, in the form of a hole with respect to the front panel 22 educated. In a case where the relative rotational phase is from the interlock phase M is shifted in the advance direction Sa, the connection section 25 a connection of the outer space with the guide hole portion 70a with large diameter or the opening part of the guide hole portion 70a with a large diameter. As in 2 shown is the connecting section 25 formed as an opening that the front panel 22 penetrates, and is above a Verbindungsnut 32b in the blade section 32 is formed with the guide hole portion 70a communicates with large diameter, for ease of understanding, however, in 4 to 11 and the like, the connecting portion 25 represented in the form of a groove, and the connecting groove 32b is not shown.

By forming the connection portion 25 when the engagement section 71b of the main locking component 71 engaged with the Main locking recess portion 72 is brought, the outside air in the guide hole section 70a Suctioned with a large diameter, reduces the influence of negative pressure and facilitates the operation of the main locking component 71 ,

Locking Mechanism: Auxiliary Locking Section

As in 2 11, the auxiliary lock portion Ls (an example of the first lock mechanism) has a support hole portion 80 which is along a radial direction about an axis of rotation X the several protruding sections 21T the outer rotor main body 21 is formed, and at the same time an auxiliary locking member 81 (an example of the first locking member), an auxiliary locking recess portion 82 (An example of the first locking recess portion) and an auxiliary lock spring 83 (an example of a first biasing member).

The auxiliary locking component 81 is slidable in the support hole section 80 introduced. The auxiliary locking recess portion 82 is as a recessed portion along a circumferential direction on the outer circumference of the inner rotor main body 31 formed so that a Begrenzungsendabschnitt 81a the auxiliary locking member 81 is engaged with the same. The auxiliary locking spring 83 is formed as a compression coil spring, which causes the biasing force to engage the Begrenzungsendabschnitts 81a with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 acts.

Accordingly, in a state where the limit end portion 81a with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 allows the relative rotational phase in the auxiliary boundary area (the most retarded phase from the interlock phase M ) along a direction in which the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 is formed, can be moved. An auxiliary lock release flow channel 35 stands with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 in communication, and the hydraulic oil from the advance flow channel 33 becomes the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 fed.

As in 5 shown is the main locking component 71 of the main lock portion Lm is engaged with the main lock recess portion 72 and abuts against the end portion of the main lock portion of the main lock recess portion 72 , and when the auxiliary locking member 81 of the auxiliary lock portion Ls against the end portion of the auxiliary limit portion of the auxiliary lock recess portion 82 is the relative rotational phase at the interlock phase M locked.

phase sensor

The valve timing 100 has a phase sensor N (an example of the phase detection section) for detecting the relative rotational phase between the outer rotor 20 and the inner rotor 30 (please refer 1 ) on. As in 3 shown, the phase sensor N a first sensor 11 for detecting a rotation of the crankshaft 1 and a second sensor 12 for detecting rotation of the intake camshaft 5 on.

The phase sensor N is also used as a cylinder determination sensor for determining a firing order of the four cylinders at the time of starting the engine E. In addition, the phase sensor becomes N as a rotation angle sensor N / A (an example of a rotation angle detection section) uses the rotation angle of the intake camshaft 5 detected, and the second sensor 12 is also used as a speed sensor, which is a speed of the crankshaft 1 detected.

The first sensor 11 has a first disc 11A that is integral with the crankshaft 1 is rotated and consists of a magnetic body such as a ferrous material, and a first proximity sensor section 11B of the pickup type, which has several first tooth sections 11AT on the outer circumference of the first disc 11A are formed, detected, on. A configuration where a cut-out section 11An in which the first tooth section 11AT at the outer periphery of the first disc 11A is absent, is formed and a count (integrated value) can be detected by the number of first tooth sections 11AT regarding the cut-out section 11An ("0") is counted.

The second sensor 12 has a second disc 12A that is integral with the intake camshaft 5 (the inner rotor 30 ) and is composed of a magnetic body such as an iron material, and a second proximity sensor section 12B of the pickup type, which has several (four) second tooth sections 12at on the outer periphery of the second disc 12A are formed, detected, on. In addition, respective circumferential lengths of the plurality of second tooth portions 12at different, so that a cylinder can be determined.

According to the configuration, in a case where the relative rotational phase of the valve timing control unit is correct A at the reference phase is when the intake camshaft 5 turns, a count value (built-in value based on a cut-out section 11An ) of the first sensor 11 at the time a detection (detection of a lower edge) of an edge part of four second teeth sections 12at through the second proximity sensor section 12B with a value that corresponds to a reference position.

Accordingly, in the case of determining the relative rotational phase by a phase determination section 91 of the control section 90 identifies which of the second tooth sections 12at through the second proximity sensor section 12B is detected. In addition to the identification, the relative rotational phase may be determined from the count value (the integrated value based on the cut-out portion 11An ) of the detection signal of the first proximity sensor section 11B at the time of detection of the edge of the second tooth portion 12at and a difference (offset) between the reference value (the reference value, the four second tooth portions 12at corresponds) and the count.

In addition, since the circumferential lengths of the four second tooth sections 12at are different from each other, the count of the first sensor 11 in a case where the second proximity sensor section 12B in the region is where the second tooth section 12at is detected, different, and the four second tooth sections 12at are identified by the count.

Phase sensor: function as a rotation angle sensor

For functioning as the rotation angle sensor NA, the end portion is on the lower edge side of the second teeth portion 12at the second disc 12A formed at a position by an angle about the axis of rotation X is divided into four equal parts (each with 90 degrees).

Accordingly, when the intake camshaft 5 reaches the reference rotation angle, the count value (the integrated value with respect to the cut-out portion 11An ) of the detection signal of the first proximity sensor section 11B a value corresponding to the four second tooth sections 12at is determined. Therefore, in case of determining the rotation angle of the intake camshaft 5 at a predetermined time, the count value of the detection signal of the first proximity sensor section 11B detected, it is identified which of the second tooth sections 12at is the count, and the angle of rotation can be determined from the difference (either positive or negative, depending on the reference value) between the reference count and the sensed count.

Further, by counting the detection signal of the first proximity sensor section 11B of the first sensor 11 during a time unit, the speed of the crankshaft 1 be recorded.

control section

As in 3 shown, the control section 90 also a function of an engine control unit (ECU) for controlling the engine E on, the detection signals from the phase sensor N which detects the relative rotational phase and a temperature sensor T that detects the temperature (substantially, the water temperature of the cooling water) of the engine E are input, and a control signal becomes the solenoid 44 of the solenoid valve 40 output.

In addition to this, the control section 90 the phase determination section 91 a rotation angle determination section 92 , a phase control section 93 , an initial phase adjusting section 94 , a lock switching control section 95 , a lock release control section 96 , a correction processing section 97 and a table 98.

The phase determination section 91 determines the relative rotational phase based on the detection result of the phase sensor N in the manner described above. Because of the phase sensor N as the rotation angle sensor N / A operates in the manner described above, determines the rotation angle determination section 92 the angle of rotation of the intake camshaft 5 based on the detection result of the second sensor 12 , The phase control section 93 sets the relative rotation phase to the target phase.

When the controller for switching the interlock mechanism LU to the locked state by the lock switching control section 95 is executed, the initial phase setting section switches 94 the relative rotational phase to a preset phase (lock switching start phase K or first stop phase Q1 ) ( 8th or 10 ) around. The lock switching control section 95 performs a control to switch the interlock mechanism LU through to the locked state. The lock release control section 96 performs a control for releasing the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU out. Although the details will be described below, the lock release control section 96 In the embodiment, a lock release determination section 96a for determining if the interlock mechanism LU unlocks the locked state or not, based on a predetermined determination phase.

The table 98 stores various parameters (a first determination phase up to a seventh determination phase, a re-determination phase range, a first predetermined value up to a third predetermined value, which will be described later) at the time of switching the interlocking mechanism LU to the lock release in the lock release control section 96 , The correction processing section 97 performs correction processing on various parameters stored in the table 98 based on the rotational speed of the internal combustion engine e , the oil temperature and the like.

In addition, the phase determination section 91 , the rotation angle determination section 92 , the phase control section 93 , the initial phase adjustment section 94 , the lock switching control section 95 , the lock release control section 96 and the correction processing section 97 however, they may be formed by a combination of hardware such as logic and software.

latch release

The operation for releasing the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU will be described with reference to FIG 5 to 12 described. In addition, in the following description, the control for supplying the hydraulic oil to a flow passage system (advance flow passage 33 , Advance chamber Ca and the like) which shifts the relative rotational phase in the advance direction Sa, is referred to as "advancing", and conversely, the control for supplying the hydraulic oil to a flow passage system (retard flow passage 34 , Retardation chamber cb and the like) indicating the relative rotational phase in the retard direction sb shifts, referred to as "retards".

In the embodiment, in case of release of the locked state of the interlocking mechanism LU the control is performed in the order in which the lock release control section 96 after shifting the relative rotational phase in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. in the retard direction sb is pressed. The details thereof are described below.

At the start of the engine E, as in 5 As shown, the relative rotational phase is in the locked state at the intermediate lock phase M held ( V in 12 ). After that, after the start of the engine e , the lock release control section performs 96 at the time of attaining the timing of execution of the phase control of the relative rotational phase, advancing off. In the advance, the hydraulic oil from the advance flow channel 33 the Frühverstellkammer Ca and a part of the hydraulic oil becomes the auxiliary lock release flow channel 35 fed.

According to the feed, as in 6 shown in the auxiliary locking portion ls the limiting end section 81a the auxiliary locking member 81 from the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 retracted, the displacement is in a state in which the engaging portion 71b with the main locking recess section 72 in the main locking section Lm is engaged, and any phase in the range of the interlock phase M is set to the earliest advanced angular phase.

In other words, the lock release control section 96 First executes the advance operation, and accordingly, the locked state of the auxiliary lock portion ls Approved ( VI in 12 ). In addition, in a case where the relative rotational phase exceeds the sequence area G and the in 7 shown lock release area F reached, the Frühverstellbetätigung stopped ( VII in 12 ). In this state, the lock release control section stops 96 the advance operation and guides the controller for supplying the hydraulic oil to the retard chamber cb from, but since the retardation cb is not filled with the hydraulic oil, and even in a case where the lock release range F has been reached and the lock release control section 96 stops the Frühverstellbetätigung, the relative rotational phase continues in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. postponed ( VIII in 12 ).

Then acts as the hydraulic oil the Spätverstellströmungskanal 34 by executing the control for supplying the hydraulic oil to the retard chamber cb by the lock release control section 96 is supplied, the pressure of the hydraulic oil at the first pressure receiving surface U1 from the first lock release flow channel 75 over the first late-adjustment-side groove 23R , Accordingly, the main lock member starts 71 an operation in a lock release direction, as in 8th is shown. Thereafter, the relative rotational phase is shifted in the retard direction Sb, while the main locking member 71 moved in the lock release direction and as in 9 shown the lock release level J3 reached ( IX in 12 ). On the lock release level J3 can, since the lock limit level J2 has been exceeded, the hydraulic oil from the second Lock release flow channel 76 the first pressure receiving surface U1 be supplied. By continuing the shift in the retard direction Sb, the relative rotational phase exceeds the intermediate lock phase M in a state where the main locking member 71 at the lock release level J3 is held, and at this time, since the hydraulic oil of the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 is discharged when the hydraulic oil is discharged from the advance chamber Ca, in the auxiliary locking portion ls the auxiliary locking member 81 with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 engaged ( X in 10 and 12 ). The shift in the retard direction becomes in a range (intermediate lock phase M at the most retarded phase) in which the auxiliary locking member 81 in a state of being engaged with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 is, is moved, performed.

In this way, in a case where the lock release of the interlock mechanism exceeds LU is executed suitably, which is indicated by the solid line in 12 1, the relative rotational phase is the retardation of the sequence area G, that is, the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M , In a case where the period of time after the advancing time of the sequence area G is exceeded by the relative rotational phase until reaching a state (state in FIG 9 ), in which the main locking component 71 the lock release level J3 starting from a state (state in 7 ), in which the first lateverstellseitige groove 23R and the first lock release flow channel 75 communicate with each other, reached, is short, or in a case where the hydraulic oil pressure at the first pressure receiving surface U1 is low, but may be the main locking component 71 the lock limit level J2 do not reach, and as indicated by a dot-dash line in 12 is shown, the lock release may not be executed.

In addition, even if the lock release of the interlock mechanism LU is carried out suitably, the Frühverstellbetätigung starting from the state in 10 to the state in 11 performed, and there is a case in which the relative rotational phase at a second stop phase Q2 in the sequence area G is held ( X to XI in 12 ). As described above, since the hydraulic oil causes the pressure at the first pressure receiving surface U1 acts, from the outlet flow channel 23D is omitted in the sequence area G in a case where the relative rotational phase at the second stop phase Q2 is held, the main locking component 71 by the biasing force of the main lock spring 73 (please refer 6 ) engage the main locking recess portion 72 brought. At this time, as indicated by the dashed line in 12 indicated in a case where the retard actuation starting from the second stop phase Q2 is performed because the hydraulic oil is not the auxiliary lock release flow channel 35 is supplied, the auxiliary locking member 81 the auxiliary locking portion ls with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 engaged, and the locked state at the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M is produced. Therefore, in a case where the retard operation is performed, when the relative rotational phase in the sequence area G is what is indicated by the solid line in 12 is indicated, the lock release control section 96 re-execute the lock release control. As a result, deterioration of fuel efficiency or deterioration of response of the valve timing becomes 100 causes.

Therefore, a control method that can reliably release the locked state when a lock release request after the start of the internal combustion engine e or a control method that can prevent the lock release control from having to be performed when the relative rotational phase in the sequence area G is held while the vehicle is running after the locked state has been released needs. Hereinafter, the details of the lock release designating section will be described 96a of the lock release control section 96 which are used to implement the control methods described above.

control method

First example

A first example of a determination procedure in the lock release determination section 96a of the lock release control section 96 is referring to 13 to 14 described. The determination phase in the example in the lock release determination section 96a is used with a first determination phase (for example, a crank angle of -12 degrees from the interlock phase M ), in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. (an example of the first direction) from the sequence area G is set, and a second determination phase (for example, a crank angle of +2 degrees from the intermediate lock phase M ), in the retard direction sb (an example of the second direction opposite to the first direction) from the sequence area G is set, trained.

At the start of the internal combustion engine e becomes the relative rotational phase in the interlock phase M held, and the lock determination section 96a determines whether or not there is a lock release request, for example, a stepping on an accelerator pedal by a driver ( # 11 in 13 ). When there is a lock release request (Yes in # 11 in 13 ), the lock release control section leads 96 the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with a switch-on duration at which an advance adjustment operation is carried out ( # 12 in 13 and 14 ). As a result, the locked state of the auxiliary lock portion Ls is released, the displacement is performed in a state in which the engagement portion 71b with the main locking recess section 72 in the main locking section Lm is engaged, and accordingly, the relative rotational phase of the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M shifted in the advance direction Sa (the state in 5 to 7 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether through the phase sensor N Detected relative rotation phase is smaller than the first determination phase or not ( # 13 in 13 ). In other words, it is determined whether by the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase has exceeded the first determination phase and has been moved to the Frühverstellseite or not. When the relative rotation phase is smaller than the first determination phase (Yes in # 13 in 13 ), the lock release control section leads 96 the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with a switch-on duration at which a retard actuation is carried out ( # 14 in 13 and 14 ). At this time, even if the lock release control section 96 the first determination phase of the lock release area F achieved and the Frühverstellbetätigung is stopped because the retard cb is not filled with the hydraulic oil, or due to the response delay of the solenoid valve 40 After the relative rotational phase has been temporarily shifted to the advance side, the relative rotational phase is shifted to the retard side (see FIG 14 ). At this time, the hydraulic oil pressure acts on the first pressure receiving surface U1 from the first flow lock release channel 75 over the first late-adjustment-side groove 23R , and the main locking component 71 the actuation starts in the lock release direction (see 8th to 9 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a Whether the relative rotational phase detected by the phase sensor N is larger than the second determination phase or not (FIG. # 15 in 13 ). In other words, it is determined whether the relative rotational phase caused by the phase sensor N is detected, has exceeded the second determination phase and has been further shifted to the retardation or not. If the relative rotational phase is less than or equal to the second determination phase (No in # 15 in 13 ), the lock release determination section determines 96a whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed after occurrence of the lock release request (or after the first determination phase is exceeded by the relative rotation phase) ( # 16 in 13 ). As a result of the provision in # 16 If the predetermined period has not elapsed, the retard operation is continued, and when the predetermined period of time has passed, the main lock member has 71 the lock limit level J2 is not reached, that is, it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is not released, and the lock release sequence is returned to # 12 run again.

If in contrast # 15 it is determined that the relative rotational phase is greater than the second determination phase (Yes in # 15 in 13 ), it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released. In this state, the lock release level is J3 achieved after the main locking component 71 the operation in the lock release direction has started (see 9 to 10 ). When the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released, the phase control section leads 93 the feedback control is such that the relative rotational phase is the target phase (see 14 ). Accordingly, the lock release of the interlock mechanism LU at the time of starting the internal combustion engine e be carried out reliably.

Second example

A second example of the determination procedure in the lock release determination section 96a of the lock release control section 96 is referring to 15 to 16 described. The determination phase included in the lock release determination section 96a of the example is used with a third determination phase (for example, a crankshaft angle of -13 degrees from the interlock phase M) set in the advance direction Sa of the sequence area G and a fourth determination phase (for example, a crank angle of -9 degrees of FIG interlocking phase M ) near the border of the sequence area G on the side of the advance direction Sat. educated.

At the start of the internal combustion engine e becomes the relative rotational phase in the interlock phase M held, and the lock release determination section 96a determines whether or not there is a lock release request such as a driver's stepping on the accelerator pedal ( # 21 in 15 ). If there is a lock release request (Yes in # 21 in 15 ), the lock release control section leads 96 the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with a duty cycle at which a Frühverstellbetätigung is performed (see # 22 in 15 and 16 ). As a result, the locked state of the auxiliary lock portion Ls is released, the displacement is performed in a state in which the engagement portion 71b in engagement with the locking recess portion 72 of the main lock portion Lm, and accordingly, the relative rotational phase of the intermediate lock phase becomes M in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. (State in 5 to 7 ) postponed.

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether through the phase sensor N Detected relative rotation phase is smaller than the third determination phase or not ( # 23 in 15 ). In other words, it is determined whether by the phase sensor N Detected relative rotational phase has exceeded the third determination phase and has been moved to the Frühverstellseite or not. When the relative rotation phase is smaller than the third determination phase (Yes in # 23 in 15 ), the lock release control section starts 96 the timing, and at the same time he conducts the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with a switch-on time at which the retard actuation is carried out (see # 24 and # 25 in 15 and 16 ). At this time, even in the case where the lock release control section 96 the third determination phase of the lock release area F achieved and the Frühverstellbetätigung due to the fact that the retard cb is not filled with the hydraulic oil, or due to the response delay of the solenoid valve 40 is stopped, after the relative rotational phase has been temporarily shifted to the Frühverstellseite, the relative rotational phase shifted to the retard (see 16 ). In addition, the hydraulic oil pressure acts on the first pressure receiving surface U1 from the first lock release flow channel 75 over the first late-adjustment-side groove 23R , and the main locking component 71 starts to operate in the lock release direction (see 8th to 9 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether through the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase is greater than the fourth determination phase or not ( # 26 in 15 ). In other words, it is determined whether the relative rotational phase caused by the phase sensor N is detected, has exceeded the fourth determination phase and has been further shifted to the retardation or not (see 16 ). If the relative rotational phase is less than or equal to the fourth determination phase (No in # 26 in 15 ), the lock release determination section determines 96a whether a measured period of time T1 after exceeding the third determination phase by the relative rotational phase exceeds a first predetermined value (for example, 1 second) or not ( # 27 in 15 ). As a result of the provision in # 27 the lock release control section moves 96 in the case where the measured time duration T1 does not exceed the first predetermined value with the retard operation (No in # 27 in 15 ). If in contrast # 27 it is determined that the measured time duration T1 exceeds the first predetermined value (Yes in # 27 in 15 ), it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU has been released. In the state, it is estimated that the locked state of the interlocking mechanism LU since the retard actuation period has elapsed after the actuation started in the lock release direction by the main lock member 71 until reaching the lock release level J3 is sufficiently ensured. When the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released, the phase control section leads 93 the feedback control is such that the relative rotational phase is the target phase (see 16 ).

When in # 26 it is determined that the relative rotational phase is greater than the fourth determination phase (Yes in # 26 in 15 ), the lock release determination section determines 96a whether the measured time duration T1 after exceeding the third determination phase by the relative rotational phase exceeds a first predetermined value or not ( # 28 in 15 ). When in # 28 it is determined that the measured time duration T1 exceeds the first predetermined value (Yes in # 28 in 15 ), it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU has been released, similar to the determination yes in # 27 , When in # 28 it is determined that the measured time duration T1 has not exceeded the first predetermined value (No in # 28 in 15 ), the retardation actuation period is not sufficiently ensured. Therefore, the lock release determination section determines 96a in that the main locking component 71 the lock limit level J2 has not reached, ie, determines that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU has not been released, and the lock release control section 96a Introduces the lock release sequence under Return # 22 again through. Accordingly, at the time a start of the internal combustion engine e the lock release of the interlock mechanism LU be carried out reliably.

Third example

A third example of the determination procedure in the lock release determination section 96a of the lock release control section 96 is referring to 17 to 18 described. The determination phase included in the lock release determination section 96a of the example is with a fifth determination phase (for example, a crank angle of -15 degrees from the intermediate lock phase M ), in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. from the sequence area G is set, and has a determination phase range (an example of the predetermined phase range) before and after (for example, a crank angle of ± 3 degrees) of the fifth determination phase.

At the start of the internal combustion engine e becomes the relative rotational phase in the interlock phase M held, and the lock release determination section 96a determines whether or not there is a lock release request such as a driver's stepping on the accelerator pedal ( # 31 in 17 ). If there is a lock release request (Yes in # 31 in 17 ), the lock release control section leads 96 the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with a turn-on duration at which the relative rotation phase becomes the phase within the determination phase range (see # 32 in 17 and 18 ). In the duty ratio in which the relative rotational phase becomes a phase within the determination phase range, the feedback control is performed such that the phase shift detected by the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase is the phase within the determination phase range after the lock release control section 96 has been set to the duty ratio at which the advance operation is temporarily performed when the lock release request is present. In other words, as a result of setting the duty ratio at which the advance operation is temporarily performed, the locked state of the auxiliary lock portion becomes ls released, the displacement is performed in a state in which the engaging portion 71b with the main locking recess section 72 of the main interlocking section Lm is engaged, and accordingly, the relative rotational phase of the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M (State in 5 to 7 ) in the advance direction Sat. adjusted. Thereafter, as a result of performing the feedback control such that the relative rotational phase is the phase within the determination phase range, the hydraulic oil pressure acts from the first lock release flow passage 75 over the first late-adjustment-side groove 23R at the first pressure receiving surface U1 , and the main locking component 71 the actuation starts in the lock release direction (see 8th to 9 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether a period of time T2 while passing through the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase is within the determination phase range, is longer than the second predetermined value (for example, 2 seconds) or not ( # 33 in 17 ). When the time period T2 while the relative rotational phase is within the determination phase range, is longer than the second predetermined value (Yes in FIG # 33 in 17 ), it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU has been released. In this state, it is estimated that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU since the retard actuation period has elapsed after the actuation started in the lock release direction by the main lock member 71 until reaching the lock release level J3 is sufficiently ensured. When the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released, the phase control section leads 93 the feedback control is such that the relative rotational phase is the target phase (see 18 ). If, however, the duration T2 while the relative rotational phase is within the determination phase range is less than or equal to the second predetermined value (No in FIG # 33 in 17 ), the retardation actuation period is not sufficiently ensured. Therefore, the lock release determination section determines 96a in that the locking component 71 the lock limit level J2 has not reached, ie, determines that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU has not been released, and under return to # 32 the lock release control section performs 96 the electrical power to the solenoid valve 40 with the duty cycle at which the relative rotational phase becomes the phase within the determination phase range. Accordingly, the lock release of the interlock mechanism LU be performed reliably at the time of starting the internal combustion engine E.

Fourth example

A fourth example of the determination procedure in the lock release determination section 96a of the lock release control section 96 is referring to 19 to 20 described. The determination phase included in the lock release determination section 96a the example used is with a fifth determination phase (for example, a crank angle of -15 degrees from the Zwischenverriegelungsphase M), in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. from the sequence area G is set, and has a determination phase range (an example of the predetermined phase range) before and after (for example, a crank angle of ± 3 degrees) of the fifth determination phase. Moreover, in the example, the re-determination phase range (for example, a crank angle of -11 degrees to ± 1 degree from the interlock phase M ) is provided on the retard side of the determination phase area.

There # 31 to # 33 in 19 of the example the same configurations as # 31 to # 33 in 17 which have been described in the third example become the processes # 34 and the following processes in 19 described.

In the lock release determination section 96a is in a case where the time duration T2 while passing through the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase is within the determination phase range, is longer than the second predetermined value (Yes in # 33 in 19 Further, the feedback control is performed such that the relative rotational phase is in the re-determination phase range (FIG. # 34 in 19 ). In other words, after setting the duty ratio at which the retard operation is temporarily performed, the feedback control is performed such that the relative rotational phase is in the re-determination phase range (see FIG 20 ). Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a in that the locked state of the interlocking mechanism LU has been released when a feedback control period T3 of the re-designation phase range becomes longer than the third predetermined value (for example, 1 second) (Yes in FIG # 35 in 19 ). In the example, since the retard actuation period is in the lock enable area F can be ensured better than in the third example, the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU be released more reliably. When the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released, the phase control section leads 93 the feedback control is such that the relative rotational phase is the target phase (see 20 ).

Fifth example

A fifth example of the determination procedure in the lock release determination section 96a of the lock release control section 96 is referring to 21 to 22 described. The determination phase included in the lock release determination section 96a of the example is with a sixth determination phase (for example, a crank angle of +5 degrees from the intermediate lock phase M ), in the retard direction sb from the sequence area G and a seventh determination phase (for example, a crank angle of -12 degrees from the intermediate lock phase M ), in the Frühverstellrichtung Sat. from the sequence area G is set, trained.

After the start of the engine E, the lock release determination described with regard to Examples 1 to 4 is carried out, and the feedback control is performed such that the relative rotational phase detected by the phase sensor N is the target phase (FIG. # 41 and # 42 in 21 ). Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether through the phase sensor N detected relative rotational phase is greater than the sixth determination phase or not ( # 43 in 21 ). In other words, it is determined whether by the phase sensor N Detected relative rotation phase has exceeded the sixth determination phase and has been moved to the retardation or not.

As described above, in a case where the relative rotational phase is on the retardation side of the intermediate lock phase M is located, the auxiliary locking member 81 the auxiliary locking portion ls in engagement with the auxiliary locking recess portion 82 brought, and the first late adjustment side groove 23R and the first lock release flow channel 75 are not related (see 10 ). When the advance operation is performed in this state, a part of the hydraulic oil, that of the advance chamber, acts Ca is supplied via the lock assist flow channel 22A on the main locking component 71 and assists the engagement of the main locking member 71 with the main locking recess section 72 , Therefore, in a case where the relative rotational phase is greater than the sixth determination phase (Yes in FIG # 23 in 21 ), a determination flag is set to "TRUE", since the probability that the main locking member 71 in engagement with the main locking recess portion 72 is, is high (see # 44 in 21 and 22 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a Whether or not the relative rotational phase detected by the phase sensor N is smaller than the seventh determination phase or not (FIG. # 45 in 21 ). As described above, in the sequence area G because the first control port 75a in connection with the outlet flow channel 23D standing at the back plate 23 is formed, the hydraulic oil, which causes the pressure at the first pressure receiving surface U1 acts from the outlet flow channel 23D left out, and the likelihood that the main locking component 71 due to the biasing force by the main lock spring 73 in engagement with the main locking recess portion 72 is high. If in contrast # 45 it is determined that the of the phase sensor N detected relative rotation phase is less than the seventh determination phase (Yes in # 45 in 21 ), is the main locking component 71 not engaged with the main locking recess portion 72 and passes the sequence area G , and therefore, the determination flag is set to "FALSE" (see # 46 in 21 and 22 ).

Next, the lock release determination section determines 96a whether all three conditions, ie, (1) a condition that the relative rotational phase in the sequence area G is, (2) a condition that the retard operation for causing the target phase is in the retard direction Sb, be executed, and ( 3 ), a condition that the determination flag is "TRUE" is satisfied after that of the phase sensor N Detected relative rotational phase has been moved from the sixth determination phase in the advance direction Sa ( # 47 in 21 ). In other words, when the relative rotational phase does not exceed the seventh determination phase and is held in the sequence area G, there is a high possibility that the main locking member 71 in engagement with the main locking recess portion 72 is, the first late adjustment side groove 23R and the first lock release flow channel 75 stand in the sequence area G not in communication, and thus the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU not released, even if the retard adjustment is carried out (see 6 ). Therefore, in a case where the determination condition in # 47 is fulfilled (yes in # 47 in 21 ), the latch enable sequence of Examples one to four is executed (see # 48 in 21 and 22 ). If, on the other hand, the determination condition in # 47 is not fulfilled (no in # 47 in 21 , it is determined that the locked state of the interlock mechanism LU is released, and the feedback control becomes under return to # 42 carried out such that the relative rotational phase is the target phase. In this way, since it is not necessary to perform the lock release sequence when the retard operation is performed when the relative rotational phase is in the sequence area G is a fuel efficiency or a response of the valve timing 100 not deteriorated.

Other embodiment

The disclosure may have the following configurations in addition to the above-described embodiments.

(a) Various parameters (the first determination phase to the seventh determination phase, the re-determination phase range, the first predetermined value to the third predetermined value) of the above-described examples one to five may be executed by the correction processing section at each time point 97 Getting corrected. In this case, for example, in a case where the oil temperature of the hydraulic oil is low and the viscosity is high, time is required until the locked state is released, and thus, the first predetermined value up to the third predetermined value is considered increase as the oil temperature of the hydraulic oil decreases.

(b) The solenoid valve may be provided outside the valve timing control unit A as a working fluid control mechanism. In this configuration, too, the configuration of the flow channel can be compared to the configuration in which the solenoid valve is inside the valve timing control unit A is intended to be simplified.

(c) The main locking component 71 may be formed so as to protrude outward in the radial direction, as a modified example of the configuration in which the main locking portion Lm in the blade portion 32 is provided. Furthermore, the auxiliary locking member 81 as the auxiliary locking portion Ls be formed so as to be along the axis parallel to the rotation axis X moved forward and backward. The configuration of the main lock portion Lm and the auxiliary lock portion ls can be any configuration.

(d) The sequence area G is with respect to the lock phase (interlock phase M ) is formed on the retardation side in contrast to the embodiment. In this case, terms "retarded" and "advanced" are replaced by their opposite expressions, the first direction described above becomes the retard direction sb and the second direction becomes the advance direction Sat. , In this way, even in a case where the sequence area G is set in this manner, the lock release is executed by the same controller.

The disclosure may be used for a valve timing with an interlocking mechanism for holding the relative rotational phase between the driving-side rotating member and the driven-side rotating member.

The principles, preferred embodiment and operation of the present invention have been described above. However, the invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above. The embodiments described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Variations and changes may be made and equivalents may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the scope of the present invention, which is indicated by the claims.

It is explicitly pointed out that all features disclosed in the description and / or the claims are considered separate and independent of each other for the purpose of original disclosure as well as for the purpose of limiting the claimed invention independently of the feature combinations in the embodiments and / or the claims should. It is explicitly stated that all range indications or indications of groups of units disclose every possible intermediate value or subgroup of units for the purpose of the original disclosure as well as for the purpose of restricting the claimed invention, in particular also as the limit of a range indication.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• JP 2013160095 A [0002]

Claims (7)

Valve timing (100) with: a drive side rotating member (20) that rotates in synchronism with a crankshaft (1) of an internal combustion engine (E); a driven-side rotating member (30) accommodated in the driving-side rotating member and integrally rotating with a camshaft (5) for opening and closing a valve (5V) of the internal combustion engine coaxially with an axis of rotation of the driving-side rotating member; a solenoid valve that shifts a relative rotational phase between the driving-side rotating member and the driven-side rotating member by supplying a working fluid to an advance chamber and a retard chamber set between the drive-side rotating member and the driven-side rotating member; an intermediate lock mechanism (LU) that holds the relative rotational phase in an intermediate lock phase (M); a phase detecting section (N) that detects the relative rotational phase; and a control section (90) that controls the solenoid valve based on a detection signal of the phase detection section, at the interlocking mechanism a first lock mechanism (Lm) formed with a first lock member (71) supported by one of the drive side rotating member and the driven side rotating member, a first lock recess portion (72) formed on the other of the drive side rotating member and the driven side rotating member and a first biasing member (73) biasing the first locking member toward the first locking recess portion, and a second lock mechanism (Ls) formed with a second lock member (81) supported by one of the drive-side rotation member and the driven-side rotation member, a second lock recess portion (82) formed on the other of the drive-side rotation member and the driven-side rotation member is, and a second biasing member (83), which biases the second locking member in the direction of the second locking recess portion, is formed, wherein the control portion includes a lock release control portion (96) that controls to cause the solenoid valve to supply the working fluid to the one of the advance chamber and the retard chamber to retract the first lock member from the first lock recess portion against a biasing force of the first bias member and the relative rotational phase in a first direction, which becomes an advance direction or a retard direction from the intermediate lock phase, and executes, after detection by the phase detection section, that the relative rotation phase includes a sequence area (G) from the intermediate lock phase to a predetermined phase in the first direction is set, a controller for causing the solenoid valve to supply the working fluid to the other of the advance chamber and the retard chamber to move the second lock member against a V retracting, executing, and / or clamping force of the second biasing member from the second locking recess portion wherein the lock release control section has a lock release determination section (96a) that determines whether or not a lock state of the interlock mechanism is enabled based on a predetermined determination phase. Valve timing control to Claim 1 wherein the determination phase is formed with a first determination phase set in the first direction of the sequence region and a second determination phase set in a second direction opposite to the first direction of the sequence region in the interlocking mechanism in the first embodiment locked state, the first locking member is in engagement with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is in engagement with the second locking recess portion and the lock release determining portion determines that the locked state is released when the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting portion is shifted in the second direction and the second determination phase exceeds after the relative rotational phase has been shifted from the interlock phase in the first direction and the first determination phase has been exceeded h at. Valve timing control to Claim 1 wherein the determination phase is formed with a third determination phase set in the first direction of the sequence region and a fourth determination phase positioned at a boundary on the side of the first direction of the sequence region in the interlocking mechanism in the interlocked one State, the first locking member is in engagement with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is engaged with the second locking recess portion and the lock release determining portion determines that the locked state is released when a period until the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting portion . is shifted in the second direction opposite to the first direction and exceeds the fourth determination phase after the relative rotational phase has been shifted from the interlock phase in the first direction and has exceeded the third determination phase is longer than a first predetermined value. Valve timing control to Claim 1 wherein the determination phase is formed with a fifth determination phase set in the first direction of the sequence area in the interlocking mechanism in the locked state, the first locking member is engaged with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is engaged with and the lock release determining section determines that the locked state has been released when a period during which the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detecting section is shifted in the first direction from the intermediate lock phase and within a predetermined phase range is set before and after the fifth determination phase is longer than a second predetermined value. Valve timing according to one of Claims 1 to 4 , further comprising: an outlet flow passage (23D) which discharges the working fluid acting on the second locking member to effect a lock switching operation in which the second locking member is engaged with the second locking recess portion when the relative rotational phase is set in the sequence area in which the determination phase is formed with a sixth determination phase set in the second direction opposite to the first direction from the sequence area and a seventh determination phase set in the first direction from the sequence area in the interlocking mechanism in FIG a state in which the locked state is released, the first locking member is not engaged with the first locking recess portion and the second locking member is not engaged with the second locking recess portion and the locking lever is free that is, when the relative rotational phase is not shifted in the first direction from the seventh determination phase and the control for causing the solenoid valve to supply the working fluid to the other of the advance chamber and the retard chamber is performed in a state in which the relative rotational phase detected by the phase detection section is positioned in the sequence area after being shifted in the second direction from the sixth determination phase. Valve timing control to Claim 3 wherein the first predetermined value is corrected based on a temperature of the working fluid. Valve timing control to Claim 4 wherein the second predetermined value is corrected based on a temperature of the working fluid.

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