US20070234989A1 - Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing - Google Patents
Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070234989A1 US20070234989A1 US11/762,724 US76272407A US2007234989A1 US 20070234989 A1 US20070234989 A1 US 20070234989A1 US 76272407 A US76272407 A US 76272407A US 2007234989 A1 US2007234989 A1 US 2007234989A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- wall
- lifter
- plunger
- angled
- socket
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L1/00—Valve-gear or valve arrangements, e.g. lift-valve gear
- F01L1/12—Transmitting gear between valve drive and valve
- F01L1/14—Tappets; Push rods
- F01L1/146—Push-rods
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L1/00—Valve-gear or valve arrangements, e.g. lift-valve gear
- F01L1/20—Adjusting or compensating clearance
- F01L1/22—Adjusting or compensating clearance automatically, e.g. mechanically
- F01L1/24—Adjusting or compensating clearance automatically, e.g. mechanically by fluid means, e.g. hydraulically
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L1/00—Valve-gear or valve arrangements, e.g. lift-valve gear
- F01L1/20—Adjusting or compensating clearance
- F01L1/22—Adjusting or compensating clearance automatically, e.g. mechanically
- F01L1/24—Adjusting or compensating clearance automatically, e.g. mechanically by fluid means, e.g. hydraulically
- F01L1/245—Hydraulic tappets
- F01L2001/256—Hydraulic tappets between cam and push rod
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L2301/00—Using particular materials
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L2303/00—Manufacturing of components used in valve arrangements
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
- F01L—CYCLICALLY OPERATING VALVES FOR MACHINES OR ENGINES
- F01L2305/00—Valve arrangements comprising rollers
- F01L2305/02—Mounting of rollers
Definitions
- This invention relates to bodies for leakdown plungers, and particularly to leakdown plungers used in combustion engines.
- Leakdown plungers are known in the art and ate used in camshaft internal combustion engines. Leakdown plungers are used in the opening and closing of valves that regulate fuel and air intake. As noted in U.S. Pat. No. 6,273,039 to Church, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, such bodies are typically fabricated through casting and machining. Col. 8, ll. 1-3. However, casting and machining is inefficient, resulting in increased labor and decreased production.
- the present invention is directed to overcoming this and other disadvantages inherent in prior-art lifter bodies.
- a leakdown plunger comprising a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface that is provided with an axis and encloses an inner plunger surface
- the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface shaped to accommodate a valve insert
- the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with a socket body
- the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with an engine workpiece
- the inner plunger surface includes an inner cylindrical plunger surface.
- FIG. 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 2 depicts a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 3 depicts the cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 4 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 5 depicts a second embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 6 depicts a third embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 7 depicts a fourth embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 8 depicts a fifth embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 10 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 11 depicts a sixth embodiment of a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 12-16 depict a preferred method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 17-21 depict an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 22 depicts a step in an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 23 depicts a preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 24 depicts a preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 25 depicts another embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 26 depicts another embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 27 depicts a top view of an embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 28 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 29 depicts a preferred embodiment of a socket.
- FIG. 30 depicts a preferred embodiment of a socket.
- FIG. 31 depicts the top view of a surface of a socket.
- FIG. 32 depicts the top view of another surface of a socket.
- FIG. 33 depicts an embodiment of a socket accommodating an engine work piece.
- FIG. 34 depicts an outer surface of an embodiment of a socket.
- FIG. 35 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece.
- FIG. 36 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece.
- FIG. 37 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece.
- FIGS. 38-42 depict a preferred method of fabricating a socket.
- FIG. 43 depicts a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 44 depicts a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 45 depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 46 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 47 depicts a second embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 48 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 49 depicts a third embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 50 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 51 depicts a fourth embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 52 depicts a fourth embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 53 depicts a fifth embodiment of a valve lifter body.
- FIG. 54 depicts a lash adjuster body.
- FIG. 56 depicts a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 57 - a depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 57 - b depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 58 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 59 depicts a second embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 60 depicts a third embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 61 depicts a fourth embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 62 depicts a fifth embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 63 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 64 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 65 depicts a sixth embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 66 depicts a seventh embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 67 depicts an eighth embodiment of a roller follower body.
- FIG. 1, 2 , and 3 show a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger 10 .
- the leakdown plunger 10 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum.
- the metal is copper.
- the metal is iron.
- the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- the metal is a super alloy.
- the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material.
- the leakdown plunger 10 is composed of pearlitic material.
- the leakdown plunger 10 is composed of austenitic material.
- the metal is a ferritic material.
- the body 20 is composed of a plurality of plunger elements.
- the plunger element is cylindrical in shape.
- the plunger element is conical in shape.
- the plunger element is hollow.
- FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of the leakdown plunger 10 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of plunger elements.
- FIG. 1 shows the body, generally designated 20 .
- the body 20 functions to accept a liquid, such as a lubricant and is provided with a first plunger opening 31 and a second plunger opening 32 .
- the first plunger opening 31 functions to accommodate an insert.
- the body 20 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of plunger elements.
- the body 20 includes a first hollow plunger element 21 , a second hollow plunger element 23 , and an insert-accommodating plunger element 22 .
- the first hollow plunger element 21 is located adjacent to the insert-accommodating plunger element 22 .
- the insert-accommodating plunger element 22 is located adjacent to the second hollow plunger element 23 .
- FIG. 2 depicts the first plunger opening 31 of an alternative embodiment.
- the first plunger opening 31 of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 is advantageously provided with a chamfered plunger surface 33 , however a chamfered plunger surface 33 is not necessary.
- chamfered shall mean a surface that is rounded or angled.
- the first plunger opening 31 depicted in FIG. 2 is configured to accommodate an insert.
- the first plunger opening 31 is shown in FIG. 2 accommodating a valve insert 43 .
- the valve insert 43 is shown in an exploded view and includes a generally spherically shaped member 44 , a spring 45 , and a cap 46 .
- valves other than the valve insert 43 shown herein can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.
- the first plunger opening 31 is provided with an annular plunger surface 35 defining a plunger hole 36 .
- the plunger hole 36 is shaped to accommodate an insert.
- the plunger hole 36 is shaped to accommodate the spherical member 44 .
- the spherical member 44 is configured to operate with the spring 45 and the cap 46 .
- the cap 46 is shaped to at least partially cover the spherical member 44 and the spring 45 .
- the cap 46 is preferably fabricated through stamping. However, the cap may be forged or machined without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2 in a semi-assembled state.
- the valve insert 43 is shown in a semi-assembled state.
- a cross-sectional view of a cap spring 47 is shown around the cap.
- the cap spring 47 and the cap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of another body.
- the cap spring 47 and the cap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of a lash adjuster, such as the lash adjuster disclosed in Applicant's “Lash Adjuster Body,” application Ser. No. 10/316,264 filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the cap spring 47 and the cap 46 ate configured to be inserted into the well 150 of a lash adjuster body 110 .
- the cap spring 47 and the cap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of a valve lifter, such as the valve lifter disclosed in Applicant's “Valve Lifter Body,” application Ser. No. 10/316,263, filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the cap spring 47 and the cap 46 are configured to be inserted into the lifter well 362 of the valve lifter body 310 .
- FIG. 4 depicts an alternative embodiment of the leakdown plunger 10 .
- FIG. 4 depicts the second plunger opening 32 in greater detail.
- the second plunger opening 32 is shown with a chamfered plunger surface 34 .
- the second plunger opening 32 may be fabricated without the chamfered plunger surface 34 .
- FIG. 4 The embodiment depicted in FIG. 4 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces. As shown therein, the embodiment is provided with an outer plunger surface 80 .
- the outer plunger surface 80 includes a plurality of surfaces.
- FIG. 4 depicts a cylindrical plunger surface 81 , an undercut plunger surface 82 , and a conical plunger surface 83 .
- the undercut plunger surface 82 extends from one end of the body 20 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercut plunger surface 82 is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical plunger surface 81 .
- the undercut plunger surface 82 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercut plunger surface 82 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercut plunger surface 82 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercut plunger surface 82 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outer surface with minor alterations to the grinding wheel.
- FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of the present invention with a section of the outer plunger surface 80 broken away.
- the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6 is provided with a first plunger opening 31 .
- the outer plunger surface 80 encloses an inner plunger surface 50 .
- the inner plunger surface 50 includes a first annular plunger surface 35 that defines a first plunger hole 36 and a second annular plunger surface 37 that defines a second plunger hole 49 .
- the outer conical plunger surface 83 is located between the outer cylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercut plunger surface 82 .
- the outer plunger surface 80 can be fabricated without the conical plunger surface 83 so that the outer cylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercut plunger surface 82 abut one another.
- FIG. 8 depicts in greater detail the first plunger opening 31 of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 .
- the first plunger opening 31 is configured to accommodate an insert and is preferably provided with a first chamfered plunger surface 33 .
- the first chamfered plunger surface 33 is not necessary.
- the first plunger opening 31 is provided with a first annular plunger surface 35 defining a plunger hole 36 .
- the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8 is provided with an outer plunger surface 80 that includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the outer plunger surface 80 includes a cylindrical plunger surface 81 , an undercut plunger surface 82 , and a conical plunger surface 83 .
- the undercut plunger surface 82 extends from one end of the body 20 and is cylindrically shaped.
- the diameter of the undercut plunger surface 82 is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical plunger surface 81 .
- the conical plunger surface 83 is located between the cylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercut plunger surface 82 .
- the outer plunger surface 80 can be fabricated without the conical plunger surface 83 so that the cylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercut plunger surface 82 abut one another.
- the cylindrical plunger surface 81 may abut the undercut plunger surface 82 so that the conical plunger surface 83 is an annular surface.
- FIG. 9 depicts the second plunger opening 32 of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 .
- the second plunger opening 32 is shown with a second chamfered plunger surface 34 .
- the second plunger opening 32 may be fabricated without the second chamfered plunger surface 34 .
- the second plunger opening 32 is provided with a second annular plunger surface 37 .
- FIG. 10 depicts a top view of the second plunger opening 32 of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 .
- the second annular plunger surface 37 is shown in relation to the first conical plunger surface 42 and the plunger hole 36 .
- the plunger hole 36 is concentric relative to the outer plunger surface 80 and the annulus formed by the second annular plunger surface 37 .
- the second inner cylindrical surface is located adjacent to a second inner conical plunger surface 54 , which is located adjacent to a third inner cylindrical surface 55 .
- the third inner cylindrical surface 55 is located adjacent to the second annular plunger surface 37 , which is located adjacent to a fourth inner cylindrical surface 57 .
- FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of the present invention within another body cooperating with a plurality of inserts.
- the undercut plunger surface 82 preferably cooperates with another body, such as a lash adjuster body or a valve lifter, to form a cavity 93 .
- FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of the present invention within a lash adjuster body 110 ; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be inserted within other bodies, such as roller followers, and valve lifters.
- the undercut plunger surface 82 is configured to cooperate with the inner lash adjuster surface 140 of a lash adjuster body 110 .
- the undercut plunger surface 82 and the inner lash adjuster surface 140 of the lash adjuster body 110 cooperate to define a cavity 93 that acts as a leakdown path for a liquid such as a lubricant.
- the embodiment depicted in FIG. 11 is further provided with a cylindrical plunger surface 81 .
- the cylindrical plunger surface 81 cooperates with the inner lash adjuster surface 140 of the lash adjuster body 110 to provide a first chamber 38 .
- the first chamber 38 functions as a high pressure chamber for a liquid, such as a lubricant.
- the second plunger opening 32 is configured to cooperate with a socket, such as the socket 210 .
- the socket 210 is configured to cooperate with a push rod 296 .
- the socket 210 preferably functions as a socket, such as that disclosed in Applicants' “Metering Socket,” application Ser. No. 10/316,262, filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- the socket 210 is provided with a push rod cooperating surface 295 .
- the push rod cooperating surface 295 is configured to function with a push rod 296 .
- the push rod 296 cooperates with the rocker arm (not shown) of an internal combustion engine (not shown).
- the socket 210 is provided with a plurality of passages that function to fluidly communicate with the lash adjuster cavity 130 of the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the socket 210 is provided with a socket passage 237 and a plunger reservoir passage 238 .
- the plunger reservoir passage 238 functions to fluidly connect the second chamber 39 with the cavity 130 of the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the socket passage 237 functions to fluidly connect the socket 210 and the cavity 130 of the lash adjuster body 110 .
- FIG. 12 to 16 illustrate the presently preferred method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 12 to 16 depict what is known in the art as “slug progressions” that show the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body.
- slug progressions that show the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body.
- pins are shown on the punch side; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the pins can be switched to the die side without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the leakdown plunger 10 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine.
- part formers such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used.
- forging methods can be used as well.
- the process of forging an embodiment of the present invention begins with a metal wire or metal rod 1000 which is drawn to size.
- the ends of the wire or rod are squared off As shown in FIG. 12 , this is accomplished through the use of a first punch 1001 , a first die 1002 , and a first knock out pin 1003 .
- the wire or rod 1000 is run through a series of dies or extrusions.
- the fabrication of the second plunger opening 32 and the outer plunger surface 80 is preferably commenced through use of a second punch 1004 , a second knock out pin 1005 , a first sleeve 1006 , and a second die 1007 .
- the second plunger opening 32 is fabricated through use of the second knock out pin 1005 and the first sleeve 1006 .
- the second die 1007 is used to fabricate the outer plunger surface 80 .
- the second die 1007 is composed of a second die top 1008 and a second die rear 1009 . In the preferred forging process, the second die rear 1009 is used to form the undercut plunger surface 82 and the conical plunger surface 83 .
- the first plunger opening 31 is fabricated through use of a third punch 1010 .
- a third punch 1010 Within the third punch 1010 is a first pin 1011 .
- the third punch 1010 and the first pin 1011 ate used to fabricate at least a portion of the annular plunger surface 35 .
- the third die 1012 is composed of a third die top 1013 and a third die rear 1014 .
- Those skilled in the art will appreciate the desirability of using a third knock out pin 1015 and a second sleeve 1016 to preserve the forging of the second plunger opening 32 .
- the plunger hole 36 is fabricated through use of a piercing punch 1021 and a stripper sleeve 1022 .
- a fifth die 1023 is used around the outer plunger surface 80 and a tool insert 1024 is used at the first opening 31 .
- FIG. 17 to 21 illustrate an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.
- FIG. 17 depicts a metal wire or metal rod 1000 drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod 1000 are squared off through the use of a first punch 1025 , a first die 1027 , and a first knock out pin 1028 .
- the fabrication of the first plunger opening 31 , the second plunger opening 32 , and the outer plunger surface 80 is preferably commenced through use of a punch pin 1029 , a first punch stripper sleeve 1030 , second knock out pin 1031 , a stripper pin 1032 , and a second die 1033 .
- the first opening 31 is fabricated through use of the second knock out pin 1031 .
- the stripper pin 1032 is used to remove the second knock out pin 1031 from the first plunger opening 31 .
- the second plunger opening 32 is fabricated, at least in part, through the use of the punch pin 1029 .
- a first punch stripper sleeve 1030 is used to remove the punch pin 1029 from the second plunger opening 32 .
- the outer plunger surface 80 is fabricated, at least in part, through the use of a second die 1033 .
- the second die 1033 is composed of a second die top 1036 and a second die rear 1037 .
- FIG. 19 depicts the forging of the inner plunger surface 50 .
- the inner plunger surface 50 is forged through the use of an extrusion punch 1038 .
- a second punch stripper sleeve 1039 is used to remove the extrusion punch 1038 from the inner plunger surface 50 .
- a third knock out pin 1043 is used to preserve the previous forging operations on the first plunger opening 31 .
- a third die 1040 is used to preserve the previous forging operations on the outer plunger surface 80 . As depicted in FIG. 19 , the third die 1040 is composed of a third die top 1041 and a third die rear 1042 .
- the plunger hole 36 is fabricated through use of a piercing punch 1045 and a stripper sleeve 1046 .
- the stripper sleeve 1046 is used in removing the piercing punch 1045 from the plunger hole 36 .
- a fourth die 1047 is used around the outer plunger surface 80 and a tool insert 1048 is used at the first plunger opening 31 .
- an undercut plunger surface 82 may be fabricated and the second plunger opening 32 may be enlarged through machining.
- a shave punch 1049 may be inserted into the second plunger opening 32 and plow back excess material.
- FIGS. 23, 24 , and 25 show a preferred embodiment of the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the lash adjuster body 110 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum.
- the metal is copper.
- the metal is iron.
- the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- the metal is a super alloy.
- the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is composed of pearlitic material.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is composed of austenitic material.
- the metal is a ferritic material.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is composed of a plurality of lash adjuster elements.
- the lash adjuster element is cylindrical in shape.
- the lash adjuster element is conical in shape.
- the lash adjuster element is solid.
- the lash adjuster element is hollow.
- FIG. 23 depicts a cross-sectional view of the lash adjuster 110 composed of a plurality of lash adjuster elements.
- FIG. 23 shows the lash adjuster body, generally designated 110 .
- the lash adjuster body 110 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of lash adjuster elements.
- the lash adjuster body 110 includes a hollow lash adjuster element 121 and a solid lash adjuster element 122 .
- the solid lash adjuster element 122 is located adjacent to the hollow lash adjuster element 121 .
- the lash adjuster body 110 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts. According to one aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as the leakdown plunger 10 . According to another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown). According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 accommodates a socket, such as the socket 210 .
- the lash adjuster body 110 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.
- FIG. 24 depicts a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is provided with an outer lash adjuster surface 180 which is configured to be inserted into another body.
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 is configured to be inserted into a valve lifter body, such as the valve lifter body 310 .
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 is configured to be inserted into a roller follower, such as roller follower 410 .
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 encloses at least one cavity. As depicted in FIG. 24 , the outer lash adjuster surface 180 encloses a lash adjuster cavity 130 .
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a plurality of inserts.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a leakdown plunger.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with the leakdown plunger 10 .
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a socket.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with the socket 210 .
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a push rod.
- the lash adjuster cavity is configured to cooperate with a push rod seat.
- the lash adjuster body 110 of the present invention is provided with a lash adjuster cavity 130 that includes a lash adjuster opening 131 .
- the lash adjuster opening 131 is in a circular shape.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is provided with the inner lash adjuster surface 140 .
- the inner lash adjuster surface 140 includes a plurality of surfaces. According to one aspect of the present invention, the inner lash adjuster surface 140 includes a cylindrical lash adjuster surface. According to another aspect of the present invention, the inner lash adjuster surface 140 includes a conical or frustoconical surface.
- the inner lash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 , preferably concentric relative to the outer lash adjuster surface 180 .
- Adjacent to the first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 is a conical lash adjuster surface 142 .
- Adjacent to the conical lash adjuster surface 142 is a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface 143 .
- the inner lash adjuster surface 140 can be fabricated without the conical lash adjuster surface 142 .
- FIG. 25 depicts a cut-away view of the lash adjuster body 110 of the preferred embodiment.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is provided with a lash adjuster axis 111 depicted as a dashed line designated “111” on FIG. 25 and a bottom surface 112 located on the outer surface 180 at the end of the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the inner lash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 that includes a first inner lash adjuster diameter 184 .
- the first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 abuts an annular lash adjuster surface 144 with an annulus 145 .
- the annulus 145 defines a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface 143 that includes a second inner lash adjuster diameter 185 .
- the second inner lash adjuster diameter 185 is smaller than the first inner lash adjuster diameter 184 .
- the annular lash adjuster surface 144 and the bottom surface 112 are oriented to be generally orthogonal to the lash adjuster axis 111 of the lash adjuster body 110 , and, when the lash adjuster body 110 is inserted into a roller follower body 410 (as represented in FIG. 37 ), the annular lash adjuster surface 144 and the bottom surface 112 are oriented to be generally orthogonal to the axis of the roller follower body 410 (referred to herein as a “axis 411”).
- the lash adjuster body 110 of the present invention is fabricated through a plurality of processes. According to one aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 is machined. According to another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 is forged. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster body 110 is fabricated through casting. The preferred embodiment of the present invention is forged. As used herein, the term “forge,” “forging,” or “forged” is intended to encompass what is known in the art as “cold forming,” “cold heading,” “deep drawing,” and “hot forging.”
- the lash adjuster body 110 is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine.
- part formers such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used.
- forging methods can be used as well.
- the process of forging the preferred embodiment begins with a metal wire or metal rod which is drawn to size.
- the ends of the wire or rod are squared off by a punch. After being drawn to size, the wire or rod is run through a series of dies or extrusions.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is extruded through use of a punch and an extruding pin After the lash adjuster cavity 130 has been extruded, the lash adjuster cavity 130 is forged. The lash adjuster cavity 130 is extruded through use of an extruding punch and a forming pin.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is fabricated through machining.
- machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding the lash adjuster body 110 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine.
- a chucking machine such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine.
- the end containing the lash adjuster opening 131 is faced so that it is substantially flat.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 is bored.
- the lash adjuster cavity 130 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool.
- heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- FIG. 26 depicts the inner lash adjuster surface 140 provided with a lash adjuster well 150 .
- the lash adjuster well 150 is shaped to accommodate a cap spring 47 .
- the lash adjuster well 150 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the inner lash adjuster surface 140 .
- the cylindrical shape of the lash adjuster well 150 is preferably concentric relative to the outer lash adjuster surface 180 .
- the lash adjuster well 150 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin.
- the lash adjuster well 150 is machined by boring the lash adjuster well 150 in a chucking machine.
- the lash adjuster well 150 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material. After heat-treating, the lash adjuster well 150 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lash adjuster well 150 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- lash adjuster lead surface 146 Adjacent to the lash adjuster well 150 , in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 26 , is a lash adjuster lead surface 146 which is conically shaped and can be fabricated through forging or machining. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without the lash adjuster lead surface 146 .
- FIG. 27 depicts a view of the lash adjuster opening 131 that reveals the inner lash adjuster surface 140 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the inner lash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 .
- a lash adjuster well 150 is defined by a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface 143 .
- the second cylindrical lash adjuster surface 143 is concentric relative to the first cylindrical lash adjuster surface 141 .
- FIG. 28 Depicted in FIG. 28 is a lash adjuster body 110 of an alternative embodiment.
- the lash adjuster body 110 is provided with an outer lash adjuster surface 180 .
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 includes an outer cylindrical lash adjuster surface 181 , an undercut lash adjuster surface 182 , and a conical lash adjuster surface 183 .
- the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 extends from one end of the lash adjuster body 110 and is cylindrically shaped.
- the diameter of the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 is smaller than the diameter of the outer cylindrical lash adjuster surface 181 .
- the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 is forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outer lash adjuster surface 180 with minor alterations to the grinding wheel.
- the conical lash adjuster surface 183 is located between the outer cylindrical lash adjuster surface 181 and the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 .
- the conical lash adjuster surface 183 is forged through use of an extruding die.
- the conical lash adjuster surface 183 is fabricated through machining.
- the outer lash adjuster surface 180 can be fabricated without the conical lash adjuster surface 183 so that the outer cylindrical lash adjuster surface 181 and the undercut lash adjuster surface 182 abut one another.
- the features of the lash adjuster body 110 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication.
- aspects of the lash adjuster cavity 130 can be machined; other aspects of the lash adjuster cavity can be forged.
- FIG. 29, 30 , and 31 show a preferred embodiment of a socket 210 .
- the socket 210 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum.
- the metal is copper.
- the metal is iron.
- the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- the metal is a super alloy.
- the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material.
- the socket 210 is composed of pearlitic material.
- the socket 210 is composed of austenitic material.
- the metal is a ferritic material.
- the socket 210 is composed of a plurality of socket elements.
- the socket element is cylindrical in shape.
- the socket element is conical in shape.
- the socket element is solid.
- the socket element is hollow.
- FIG. 29 depicts a cross-sectional view of the socket 210 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of socket elements.
- FIG. 29 shows the socket, generally designated 210 .
- the socket 210 functions to accept a liquid, such as a lubricant and is provided with a plurality of surfaces and passages.
- the first socket surface 231 functions to accommodate an insert, such as, for example, a push rod 296 .
- the socket 210 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of socket elements.
- the socket 210 includes a first hollow socket element 221 , a second hollow socket element 222 , and a third hollow socket element 223 .
- the first hollow socket element 221 is located adjacent to the second hollow socket element 222 .
- the second hollow socket element 222 is located adjacent to the third hollow socket element 223 .
- FIG. 30 depicts a cross sectional view of the socket 210 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided with a first socket surface 231 .
- the first socket surface 231 is configured to accommodate an insert.
- the socket 210 of the preferred embodiment is also provided with a second socket surface 232 .
- the second socket surface 232 is configured to cooperate with an engine workpiece.
- FIG. 31 depicts a top view of the first socket surface 231 .
- the first socket surface 231 is provided with a generally spherical push rod cooperating surface 235 defining a first socket hole 236 .
- the push rod cooperating surface 235 is concentric relative to the outer socket surface 240 ; however, such concentricity is not necessary.
- the first socket hole 236 fluidly links the first socket surface 231 with a socket passage 237 .
- the socket passage 237 is shaped to conduct fluid, preferably a lubricant.
- the socket passage 237 is cylindrically shaped; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the socket passage 237 may assume any shape so long as it is able to conduct fluid.
- the protruding surface 233 on the second socket surface 232 is located between a first flat surface 260 and a second flat surface 261 . As shown therein, the protruding surface 233 is raised with respect to the first and second flat surfaces 260 , 261 .
- the protruding socket surface 233 cooperates with a second plunger opening 32 of the leakdown plunger 10 .
- the protruding socket surface 233 preferably corresponds to the second plunger opening 32 of the leakdown plunger 10 .
- the protruding socket surface 233 preferably provides a closer fit between the second socket surface 232 of the socket 210 and the second plunger opening 32 of the leakdown plunger 10 .
- a socket passage 237 is provided.
- the socket passage 237 preferably functions to lubricate the push rod cooperating surface 235 .
- the embodiment depicted in FIG. 33 is also provided with a plunger reservoir passage 238 .
- the plunger reservoir passage 238 is configured to conduct fluid, preferably a lubricant.
- the plunger reservoir passage 238 performs a plurality of functions. According to one aspect of the present invention, the plunger reservoir passage 238 fluidly links the second plunger opening 32 of the leakdown plunger 10 and the outer socket surface 240 of the socket 210 . According to another aspect of the present invention, the plunger reservoir passage 238 fluidly links the inner plunger surface 50 of the leakdown plunger 10 and the outer socket surface 240 of the socket 210 .
- the plunger reservoir passage 238 can be extended so that it joins socket passage 237 within the socket 210 . However, it is not necessary that the passages 237 , 238 be joined within the socket 210 . As depicted in FIG. 33 , the plunger reservoir passage 238 of an embodiment of the present invention is fluidly linked to socket passage 237 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the outer socket surface 240 is fluidly linked to the first socket surface 231 in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 33 .
- the socket 210 is provided with an outer socket surface 240 that is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece.
- the outer socket surface 240 is cylindrically shaped.
- the outer socket surface 240 may assume any shape so long as it is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece.
- the outer socket surface 240 may advantageously be configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece. As shown in FIG. 35 , the outer socket surface 240 is configured to cooperate with the second inner lifter surface 370 of a valve lifter body 310 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the outer socket surface 40 may advantageously be configured to cooperate with the inner surfaces of other lifter bodies.
- FIG. 36 depicts the outer socket surface 240 configured to cooperate with the inner surface of another workpiece.
- the outer socket surface 40 may be configured to cooperate with a lash adjuster.
- the outer socket surface 240 is configured to cooperate with the inner lash adjuster surface 140 of a lash adjuster body 110 .
- the lash adjuster body 110 with the socket 210 of the present invention located therein, may be inserted into a roller follower body 410 .
- FIGS. 38 to 42 depict what is known in the art as a “slug progression” that shows the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body.
- slug progression shows the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body.
- pins are shown on the punch side; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the pins can be switched to the die side without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the socket 210 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine.
- part formers such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used.
- forging methods can be used as well.
- the process of forging an embodiment of the present invention begins with a metal wire or metal rod 2000 which is drawn to size.
- the ends of the wire or rod are squared off As shown in FIG. 38 , this is accomplished through the use of a first punch 2001 , a first die 2002 , and a first knock out pin 2003 .
- the wire or rod 2000 is run through a series of dies or extrusions.
- the fabrication of the first socket surface 231 , the outer socket surface 240 , and the second socket surface 232 is preferably commenced through use of a second punch 2004 , a second knock out pin 2005 , and a second die 2006 .
- the second punch 2004 is used to commence fabrication of the first socket surface 231 .
- the second die 2006 is used against the outer socket surface 240 .
- the second knock out pin 2005 is used to commence fabrication of the second socket surface 232 .
- FIG. 40 depicts the fabrication of the first socket surface 231 , the second socket surface 232 , and the outer socket surface 240 through use of a third punch 2007 , a first stripper sleeve 2008 , a third knock out pin 2009 , and a third die 2010 .
- the first socket surface 231 is fabricated using the third punch 2007 .
- the first stripper sleeve 2008 is used to remove the third punch 2007 from the first socket surface 231 .
- the second socket surface 232 is fabricated through use of the third knock out pin 2009
- the outer socket surface 240 is fabricated through use of the third die 2010 .
- the fabrication of the passages 237 , 238 is commenced through use of a punch pin 2011 and a fourth knock out pin 2012 .
- a second stripper sleeve 2013 is used to remove the punch pin 2011 from the first socket surface 231 .
- the fourth knock out pin 2012 is used to fabricate the plunger reservoir passage 238 .
- a fourth die 2014 is used to prevent change to the outer socket surface 240 during the fabrication of the passages 237 , 238 .
- socket passage 237 is completed through use of pin 2015 .
- a third stripper sleeve 2016 is used to remove the pin 2015 from the first socket surface 231 .
- a fifth die 2017 is used to prevent change to the outer socket surface 240 during the fabrication of socket passage 237 .
- a tool insert 2018 is used to prevent change to the second socket surface 232 and the plunger reservoir passage 238 during the fabrication of socket passage 237 .
- passages 237 , 238 may be enlarged and other passages may be drilled. However, such machining is not necessary.
- FIG. 43, 44 , and 45 show a preferred embodiment of the valve lifter body 310 .
- the valve lifter 310 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum.
- the metal is copper.
- the metal is iron.
- the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- the metal is a super alloy.
- the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material.
- the valve lifter 310 is composed of pearlitic material.
- the valve lifter 310 is composed of austenitic material.
- the metal is a ferritic material.
- the valve lifter body 310 is composed of a plurality of lifter elements.
- the lifter element is cylindrical in shape.
- the lifter element is conical in shape.
- the lifter element is solid.
- the lifter element is hollow.
- FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional view of the valve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of lifter elements.
- FIG. 43 shows the valve lifter body, generally designated 310 , with a roller 390 .
- the valve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of lifter elements.
- the valve lifter body 310 includes a first hollow lifter element 321 , a second hollow lifter element 322 , and a solid lifter element 323 .
- the solid lifter element 323 is located between the first hollow lifter element 321 and the second hollow lifter element 322 .
- the valve lifter body 310 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts.
- the valve lifter body 310 accommodates a lash adjuster, such as the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the valve lifter body 310 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as the leakdown plunger 10 .
- the valve lifter body 310 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown).
- the valve lifter body 310 accommodates a socket, such as the socket 210 .
- the valve lifter body 310 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.
- FIG. 44 depicts a cross-sectional view of the valve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the valve lifter body 310 is provided with an outer lifter surface 380 which is cylindrically shaped.
- the outer lifter surface 380 encloses a plurality of cavities.
- the outer lifter surface 380 encloses a first lifter cavity 330 and a second lifter cavity 331 .
- the first lifter cavity 330 includes a first inner lifter surface 340 .
- the second lifter cavity 331 includes a second inner lifter surface 370 .
- FIG. 45 depicts a top view and provides greater detail of the first lifter cavity 330 of the preferred embodiment.
- the first lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert.
- the first inner lifter surface 340 is configured to house a cylindrical insert 390 , which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, functions as a roller. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that housing a cylindrical insert can be accomplished through a plurality of different configurations.
- the first inner lifter surface 340 of the preferred embodiment includes a curved surface and a plurality of walls. As depicted in FIG.
- the inner lifter surface 340 includes a first lifter wall 341 , a second lifter wall 342 , a third lifter wall 343 , and a fourth lifter wall 344 .
- the first lifter wall 341 is adjacent to a curved lifter surface 348 .
- the curved lifter surface 348 is adjacent to a second lifter wall 342 .
- the third and fourth walls 343 , 344 are located on opposing sides of the curved lifter surface 348 .
- the valve lifter body 310 of the present invention is provided with a second lifter cavity 331 which includes a second lifter opening 333 which is in a circular shape.
- the second lifter cavity 331 is provided with a second inner lifter surface 370 .
- the second inner lifter surface 370 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped.
- the second inner lifter surface 370 is configured to house a lash adjuster generally designated 110 on FIG. 54 .
- the second inner lifter surface 370 can be conically or frustoconically shaped without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
- the present invention is fabricated through a plurality of processes.
- the valve lifter body 310 is machined.
- the valve lifter body 310 is forged.
- the valve lifter body 310 is fabricated through casting.
- the valve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is forged.
- the term “forge,” “forging,” or “forged” is intended to encompass what is known in the art as “cold forming,” “cold heading,” “deep drawing,” and “hot forging.”
- the valve lifter body 310 is preferably forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well.
- the process of forging the valve lifter body 310 preferably begins with a metal wire or metal rod which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off by a punch. After being drawn to size, the wire or rod is run through a series of dies or extrusions. The second lifter cavity 331 is extruded through use of a punch and an extruding pin. After the second lifter cavity 331 has been extruded, the first lifter cavity 330 is forged. The first lifter cavity 330 is extruded through use of an extruding punch and a forming pin.
- valve lifter body 310 is fabricated through machining.
- machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding the valve lifter body 310 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other machines and other manufacturers of automatic chucking machines can be used.
- the end containing the second lifter opening 333 is faced so that it is substantially flat.
- the second lifter cavity 331 is bored.
- the second lifter cavity 331 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool.
- heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- the second lifter cavity 331 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the second lifter cavity 331 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- the other features of the present invention may be fabricated through machining.
- the first lifter cavity 330 can be machined. To machine the first lifter cavity 330 , the end containing the first lifter opening 332 is faced so that it is substantially flat. The first lifter cavity 330 is drilled and then the first lifter opening 332 is broached using a broaching machine.
- the first lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a first inner lifter surface 350 .
- the first inner lifter surface 350 includes a lifter surface, a plurality of curved surfaces, and a plurality of walls referred to herein as a first wall 351 , a second wall 353 , a third wall 356 , and a fourth wall 357 .
- the first wall 351 is adjacent to a first curved lifter surface 354 .
- the first curved lifter surface 354 is adjacent to a lifter surface 352 .
- the lifter surface 352 is adjacent to a second curved lifter surface 355 .
- the second curved lifter surface 355 is adjacent to the second wall 353 .
- FIG. 47 depicts a cross-sectional view of the valve lifter body 310 with the first lifter cavity 330 shown in FIG. 46 .
- the lifter surface 352 preferably is, relative to the first and second curved surfaces 354 , 355 , generally flat in shape and oriented to be generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 .
- the first lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a first inner lifter surface 350 .
- the first inner lifter surface 350 includes a plurality of walls referred to herein as a first wall 351 , a second wall 353 , a third wall 356 , and a fourth wall 357 .
- the first inner lifter surface 350 also includes a plurality of angled walls referred to herein as a first angled wall 369 - a, a second angled wall 369 - b, a third angled wall 369 - c, and a fourth angled wall 369 - d. Referring to FIG.
- the first wall 351 is adjacent to a lifter surface 352 , which is preferably circular in shape and oriented to be generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 .
- the first wall 351 is adjacent to a first angled lifter surface 365 and a second angled lifter surface 366 .
- the first angled wall 369 - a is shown extending axially into the valve lifter body 310 from the first lifter opening 332 and terminating at the first angled surface 165 .
- the first angled lifter surface 365 is adjacent to the lifter surface 352 and a first curved lifter surface 354 . As depicted in FIG.
- the first angled lifter surface 365 is configured to be at an angle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144 ).
- the angle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second angled lifter surface 366 is adjacent to the lifter surface 352 .
- the fourth angled wall 369 - d is shown extending axially into the valve lifter body 310 from the first lifter opening 332 and terminating at the second angled surface 366 .
- the second angled lifter surface 366 is configured to be at an angle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144 ).
- the angle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second angled lifter surface 366 is adjacent to a second curved lifter surface 355 .
- the second curved lifter surface 355 is adjacent to a third angled lifter surface 367 and a third wall 356 .
- the third angled lifter surface 367 is adjacent to the lifter surface 352 and the second wall 353 .
- the second angled wall 369 - b is shown extending axially into the valve lifter body 310 from the first lifter opening 332 and terminating at the third angled surface 367 .
- the third angled lifter surface 367 is configured to be at an angle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144 ).
- the angle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second wall 353 is adjacent to a fourth angled lifter surface 368 .
- the fourth angled lifter surface 368 adjacent to the first curved lifter surface 354 and a fourth wall 357 .
- the third angled wall 369 - c is shown extending axially into the valve lifter body 310 from first lifter opening 332 and terminating at the fourth angled surface 368 .
- the fourth angled lifter surface 368 is configured to be at an angle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to the valve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plan of the annular lash adjuster surface 144 .
- the angle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees.
- FIG. 49 depicts a cross-sectional view of an embodiment with the first lifter cavity 330 of FIG. 48 .
- FIG. 50 Shown in FIG. 50 is an alternative embodiment of the first lifter cavity 330 depicted in FIG. 48 .
- the first lifter cavity 330 is provided with a chamfered lifter opening 332 and a first inner lifter surface 350 .
- the chamfered lifter opening 332 functions so that a cylindrical insert can be introduced to the valve lifter body 310 with greater ease.
- the chamfered lifter opening 332 accomplishes this function through lifter chamfers 360 , 361 which are located on opposing sides of the chamfered lifter opening 332 .
- lifter chamfers 360 , 361 can be fabricated in a number of different configurations; so long as the resulting configuration renders introduction of a cylindrical insert 390 through the first lifter opening 332 with greater ease, it is a “chamfered lifter opening” within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- the lifter chamfers 360 , 361 are preferably fabricated through forging via an extruding punch pin. Alternatively, the lifter chamfers 360 , 361 are machined by being ground before heat-treating. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other methods of fabrication can be employed within the scope of the present invention.
- the lifter well 362 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the second inner lifter surface 370 .
- the cylindrical shape of the lifter well 362 is preferably concentric relative to the outer lifter surface 380 .
- the lifter well 362 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin.
- the lifter well 362 is machined by boring the lifter well 362 in a chucking machine.
- the lifter well 362 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool.
- heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved.
- heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- the lifter well 362 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine.
- the lifter well 362 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- the embodiment depicted in FIG. 51 Adjacent to the lifter well 362 , the embodiment depicted in FIG. 51 is provided with a lead lifter surface 364 which can be fabricated through forging or machining. As shown therein the lead lifter surface is generally annular in shape and generally frusto-conical. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without the lead lifter surface 364 .
- FIG. 52 Depicted in FIG. 52 is another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the valve lifter body 310 is provided with an outer lifter surface 380 .
- the outer lifter surface 380 includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the outer lifter surface 380 includes a cylindrical lifter surface 381 , an undercut lifter surface 382 , and a conical lifter surface 383 .
- the undercut lifter surface 382 extends from one end of the valve lifter body 310 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercut lifter surface 382 is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical lifter surface 381 .
- FIG. 53 depicts another embodiment valve lifter body 310 of the present invention.
- the outer lifter surface 380 includes a plurality of outer surfaces.
- the outer lifter surface 380 is provided with a first cylindrical lifter surface 381 .
- the first cylindrical lifter surface 381 contains a first lifter depression 393 .
- Adjacent to the first cylindrical lifter surface 381 is a fifth cylindrical lifter surface 382 .
- the fifth cylindrical lifter surface 382 has a radius which is smaller than the radius of the first cylindrical lifter surface 381 .
- the fifth cylindrical lifter surface 382 is adjacent to a second cylindrical lifter surface 384 .
- the second cylindrical lifter surface 384 has a radius which is greater than the radius of the fifth cylindrical lifter surface 382 .
- the second cylindrical lifter surface 384 contains a lifter ridge 387 .
- Adjacent to the second cylindrical lifter surface 384 is a conical lifter surface 383 .
- the conical lifter surface 383 is adjacent to a third cylindrical lifter surface 385 .
- the third cylindrical lifter surface 385 and the conical lifter surface 383 contain a second lifter depression 392 .
- the second lifter depression 392 defines a lifter hole 391 .
- Adjacent to the third cylindrical lifter surface 385 is a flat outer lifter surface 388 .
- the flat outer lifter surface 388 is adjacent to a fourth cylindrical lifter surface 386 .
- valve lifter body 310 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication.
- first lifter cavity 330 can be machined while the second lifter cavity 331 is forged.
- second lifter cavity 331 can be machined while the first lifter cavity 330 is forged.
- FIGS. 55 and 56 show a preferred embodiment of the roller follower body 410 .
- the roller follower body 410 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum.
- the metal is copper.
- the metal is iron.
- the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- the roller follower body 410 is composed of a plurality of roller elements.
- the roller element is cylindrical in shape.
- the roller element is conical in shape.
- the roller element is solid.
- the roller element is hollow.
- the roller follower body 410 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts.
- the roller follower body 410 accommodates a lash adjuster, such as the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the roller follower body 410 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as the leakdown plunger 210 .
- the roller follower body 410 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown).
- the roller follower body 410 accommodates a socket, such as the metering socket 10 .
- FIG. 57 a and FIG. 57 b depict top views and provide greater detail of the first roller cavity 430 of the preferred embodiment.
- the first roller cavity 430 is provided with a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert.
- the first inner roller surface 440 is configured to house a cylindrical insert 490 , which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, functions as a roller.
- housing a cylindrical insert can be accomplished through a plurality of different configurations.
- the first inner roller surface 440 of the preferred embodiment includes a plurality of walls. As depicted in FIG.
- the second roller cavity 431 of the preferred embodiment includes a second toller opening 433 that is in a circular shape.
- the second roller cavity 431 is provided with a second inner roller surface 470 that is configured to house an inner body 434 .
- the inner body 434 is the lash adjuster body 110 .
- the second inner roller surface 470 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped.
- the second inner roller surface 470 is conically or frustoconically shaped.
- the second inner roller surface 470 is a plurality of surfaces including a cylindrically shaped roller surface 471 adjacent to a conically or frustoconically shaped roller surface 472 .
- roller follower body 410 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine.
- part formers such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used.
- forging methods can be used as well.
- the roller follower body 410 is fabricated through machining.
- machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding the roller follower body 410 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine.
- a chucking machine such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine.
- the end containing the second roller opening 433 is faced so that it is substantially flat.
- the second roller cavity 431 is bored.
- the second roller cavity 431 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool.
- heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- the second roller cavity 431 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine.
- an internal diameter grinding machine such as a Heald grinding machine.
- the second roller cavity 431 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- the first roller cavity 430 can be machined. To machine the first roller cavity 430 , the end containing the first roller opening 432 is faced so that it is substantially flat. The first roller cavity 430 is drilled and then the first roller opening 432 is broached using a broaching machine.
- the first roller cavity 430 is provided with a first inner roller surface 450 and first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert 490 .
- the first inner roller surface 450 defines a transition roller opening 452 and includes a plurality of curved surfaces and a plurality of walls.
- a first wall 451 is adjacent to a first curved roller surface 454 .
- the first curved roller surface 454 and a second curved roller surface 455 are located on opposing sides of the transition roller opening 452 .
- the second curved roller surface 455 is adjacent to a second wall 453 .
- On opposing sides of the first and second walls 451 , 453 are third and fourth walls 456 , 457 .
- the second inner roller surface 470 includes a plurality of cylindrical surfaces. As depicted in FIG. 60 , the second inner roller surface 470 includes a first cylindrical roller surface 471 and a second cylindrical roller surface 473 . The second inner roller surface 470 of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 60 also includes a frustoconical roller surface 472 .
- the first roller cavity 430 is provided with a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a first inner roller surface 450 .
- the first inner roller surface 450 defines a transition roller opening 452 linking the first roller cavity 430 with a second toller cavity 431 .
- the second roller cavity 431 is provided with a second inner roller surface 470 which includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the second inner roller surface 470 includes a cylindrical roller surface 471 and a frustoconical roller surface 472 .
- the second inner roller surface 470 may include a plurality of cylindrical surfaces.
- FIG. 62 depicts a second inner roller surface 470 which includes a first cylindrical roller surface 471 adjacent to a frustoconical roller surface 472 . Adjacent to the frustoconical roller surface 472 is a second cylindrical roller surface 473 .
- the second cylindrical roller surface 473 depicted in FIG. 62 defines a transition roller opening 452 linking a second roller cavity 431 with a first toller cavity 430 .
- the first roller cavity 430 is provided with a first inner roller surface 450 and a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert.
- the first inner roller surface 450 includes a plurality of curved surfaces, angled surfaces, walls, and angled walls.
- FIG. 63 depicts a first inner roller surface 450 depicted in FIG. 61 and 62 .
- a first wall 451 is adjacent to the transition roller opening 452 , a first angled roller surface 465 , and a second angled roller surface 466 .
- the first angled roller surface 465 is adjacent to the transition roller opening 452 , a first roller curved surface 454 , and a first angled wall 469 - a.
- the first angled roller surface 465 is configured to be at an angle 400 relative to the plane of a first angled wall 469 - a, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second angled roller surface 466 is adjacent to the transitional roller opening 452 and a fourth angled wall 469 - d. As shown in FIG. 61 and 62 , the second angled roller surface 466 is configured to be at an angle 400 relative to the plane of the fourth angled wall 469 - d, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second angled roller surface 466 is adjacent to a second curved roller surface 455 .
- the second curved roller surface 455 is adjacent to a third angled roller surface 467 and a third wall 456 .
- the third angled roller surface 467 is adjacent to the transitional roller opening 452 , a second wall 453 , and a second angled wall 469 - b. As depicted in FIG. 61 & 62 , the third angled roller surface 467 is configured to be at an angle 400 relative to the plane of the second angled wall 469 - b, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees.
- the second wall 453 is adjacent to a fourth angled roller surface 468 .
- the fourth angled roller surface 468 adjacent to the first curved roller surface 454 , a third angled wall 469 - c, and a fourth wall 457 .
- the fourth angled roller surface 468 is configured to be at an angle relative to the plane of the third angled wall 469 - c, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees.
- FIG. 61 and 62 depict cross-sectional views of embodiments with the first roller cavity 430 of FIG. 63 .
- FIG. 64 Shown in FIG. 64 is an alternative embodiment of the first roller cavity 430 depicted in FIG. 63 .
- the first roller cavity 430 is provided with a chamfered roller opening 432 and a first inner roller surface 450 .
- the chamfered roller opening 432 functions so that a cylindrical insert can be introduced to the roller follower body 410 with greater ease.
- the chamfered roller opening 432 accomplishes this function through roller chamfers 460 , 461 , which are located on opposing sides of the chamfered roller opening 432 .
- roller chamfers 460 , 461 can be fabricated in a number of different configurations; so long as the resulting configuration renders introduction of a cylindrical insert 490 through the first roller opening 432 with greater ease, it is a “chamfered roller opening” within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- roller chamfers 460 , 461 are preferably fabricated through forging via an extruding punch pin. Alternatively, the roller chamfers 460 , 461 are machined by being ground before heat-treating. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other methods of fabrication can be employed within the scope of the present invention.
- FIG. 65 discloses the second roller cavity 431 of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the roller follower body 410 is provided with a second roller cavity 431 which includes a plurality of cylindrical and conical surfaces.
- the second roller cavity 431 depicted in FIG. 65 includes a second inner roller surface 470 .
- the second inner roller surface 470 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped, concentric relative to the cylindrically shaped outer roller surface 480 .
- the second inner roller surface 470 is provided with a transition or transitional tube 462 .
- the transitional tube 462 is shaped to fluidly link the second roller cavity 431 with a first roller cavity 430 .
- FIG. 65 discloses the second roller cavity 431 of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the roller follower body 410 is provided with a second roller cavity 431 which includes a plurality of cylindrical and conical surfaces.
- the second roller cavity 431 depicted in FIG. 65 includes a second inner roller surface 470 .
- the transitional tube 462 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the second inner roller surface 470 .
- the cylindrical shape of the transitional tube 462 is preferably concentric relative to the outer roller surface 480 .
- the transitional tube 462 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin.
- the transitional tube 462 is machined by boring the transitional tube 462 in a chucking machine.
- the transitional tube 462 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool.
- heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved.
- heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- the transitional tube 462 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine.
- the transitional tube 462 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- roller lead surface 464 Adjacent to the transitional tube 462 , the embodiment depicted in FIG. 64 is provided with a conically-shaped roller lead surface 464 which can be fabricated through forging or machining. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without the roller lead surface 464
- FIG. 66 Depicted in FIG. 66 is a roller follower body 410 of an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
- the roller follower body 410 is provided with an outer roller surface 480 .
- the outer roller surface 480 includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the outer roller surface 480 includes a cylindrical roller surface 481 , an undercut roller surface 482 , and a conical roller surface 483 .
- the undercut roller surface 482 extends from one end of the roller follower body 410 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercut roller surface 482 is smaller than the diameter of the cylindrical roller surface 481 .
- the undercut roller surface 482 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercut roller surface 482 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercut roller surface 482 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercut roller surface 482 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outer roller surface with minor alterations to the grinding wheel.
- the conical roller surface 483 is located between the cylindrical toller surface 481 and the undercut roller surface 482 .
- the conical roller surface 483 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die.
- the conical roller surface 483 is fabricated through machining.
- the outer roller surface 480 can be fabricated without the conical roller surface 483 so that the cylindrical surface 481 and the undercut roller surface 482 abut one another.
- FIG. 67 depicts a roller follower body 410 constituting another embodiment.
- the outer roller surface 480 includes a plurality of surfaces.
- the outer roller surface 480 is provided with a first cylindrical roller surface 481 .
- the first cylindrical roller surface 481 contains a first roller depression 493 .
- Adjacent to the first cylindrical roller surface 481 is a second cylindrical roller surface 482 .
- the second cylindrical roller surface 482 has a radius that is smaller than the radius of the first cylindrical roller surface 481 .
- the second cylindrical roller surface 482 is adjacent to a third cylindrical roller surface 484 .
- the third cylindrical roller surface 484 has a radius that is greater than the radius of the second cylindrical roller surface 482 .
- the third cylindrical roller surface 484 contains a ridge 487 .
- Adjacent to the third cylindrical roller surface 484 is a conical roller surface 483 .
- the conical roller surface 483 is adjacent to a fourth cylindrical roller surface 485 .
- the fourth cylindrical roller surface 485 and the conical roller surface 483 contain a second roller depression 492 .
- the second roller depression 492 defines a roller hole 491 .
- Adjacent to the fourth cylindrical roller surface 485 is a flat outer roller surface 488 .
- the flat outer roller surface 488 is adjacent to a fifth cylindrical roller surface 486 .
- roller follower body 410 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication.
- first roller cavity 430 can be machined while the second roller cavity 431 is forged.
- second roller cavity 431 can be machined while the first roller cavity 430 is forged.
Abstract
The present invention relates to a leakdown plunger, comprising a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface that is provided with an axis and encloses an inner plunger surface, the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface shaped to accommodate a valve insert, the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with a socket body, the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with an engine workpiece, and the inner plunger surface includes an inner cylindrical plunger surface.
Description
- This application is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 11/361,273, filed Feb. 23, 2006, which is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 11/200,287, filed Aug. 9, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,069,891, which is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 11/119,450, filed Apr. 29, 2005, which is a continuation prior application Ser. No. 10/992,531, filed Nov. 18, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,964,251, which is a continuation of prior application Ser. No. 10/274,519, filed Oct. 18, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,871,622. The disclosures of application Ser. No. 11/200,286, application Ser. No. 11/119,450, application Ser. No. 10/992,531, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,964,251, and application Ser. No. 10/274,519, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,871,622 are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- This invention relates to bodies for leakdown plungers, and particularly to leakdown plungers used in combustion engines.
- Leakdown plungers are known in the art and ate used in camshaft internal combustion engines. Leakdown plungers are used in the opening and closing of valves that regulate fuel and air intake. As noted in U.S. Pat. No. 6,273,039 to Church, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, such bodies are typically fabricated through casting and machining. Col. 8, ll. 1-3. However, casting and machining is inefficient, resulting in increased labor and decreased production.
- The present invention is directed to overcoming this and other disadvantages inherent in prior-art lifter bodies.
- The scope of the present invention is defined solely by the appended claims, and is not affected to any degree by the statements within this summary. Briefly stated, a leakdown plunger, comprising a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface that is provided with an axis and encloses an inner plunger surface, the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface shaped to accommodate a valve insert, the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with a socket body, the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with an engine workpiece, and the inner plunger surface includes an inner cylindrical plunger surface.
-
FIG. 1 depicts a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 2 depicts a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 3 depicts the cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 4 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 5 depicts a second embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 6 depicts a third embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 7 depicts a fourth embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 8 depicts a fifth embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 10 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 11 depicts a sixth embodiment of a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 12-16 depict a preferred method of fabricating a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 17-21 depict an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 22 depicts a step in an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger. -
FIG. 23 depicts a preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 24 depicts a preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 25 depicts another embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 26 depicts another embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 27 depicts a top view of an embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 28 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 29 depicts a preferred embodiment of a socket. -
FIG. 30 depicts a preferred embodiment of a socket. -
FIG. 31 depicts the top view of a surface of a socket. -
FIG. 32 depicts the top view of another surface of a socket. -
FIG. 33 depicts an embodiment of a socket accommodating an engine work piece. -
FIG. 34 depicts an outer surface of an embodiment of a socket. -
FIG. 35 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece. -
FIG. 36 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece. -
FIG. 37 depicts an embodiment of a socket cooperating with an engine work piece. -
FIGS. 38-42 depict a preferred method of fabricating a socket. -
FIG. 43 depicts a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 44 depicts a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 45 depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 46 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 47 depicts a second embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 48 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 49 depicts a third embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 50 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 51 depicts a fourth embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 52 depicts a fourth embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 53 depicts a fifth embodiment of a valve lifter body. -
FIG. 54 depicts a lash adjuster body. -
FIG. 55 depicts a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 56 depicts a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 57 -a depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 57 -b depicts the top view of a preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 58 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 59 depicts a second embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 60 depicts a third embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 61 depicts a fourth embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 62 depicts a fifth embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 63 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 64 depicts the top view of another preferred embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 65 depicts a sixth embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 66 depicts a seventh embodiment of a roller follower body. -
FIG. 67 depicts an eighth embodiment of a roller follower body. - Turning now to the drawings,
FIG. 1, 2 , and 3 show a preferred embodiment of aleakdown plunger 10. Theleakdown plunger 10 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal is copper. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is iron. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- Those with skill in the art will also appreciate that the metal is a super alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the
leakdown plunger 10 is composed of pearlitic material. According to still another aspect of the present invention, theleakdown plunger 10 is composed of austenitic material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a ferritic material. - The
body 20 is composed of a plurality of plunger elements. According to one aspect of the present invention, the plunger element is cylindrical in shape. According to another aspect of the present invention, the plunger element is conical in shape. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the plunger element is hollow. -
FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of theleakdown plunger 10 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of plunger elements.FIG. 1 shows the body, generally designated 20. Thebody 20 functions to accept a liquid, such as a lubricant and is provided with afirst plunger opening 31 and asecond plunger opening 32. The first plunger opening 31 functions to accommodate an insert. - The
body 20 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of plunger elements. Thebody 20 includes a firsthollow plunger element 21, a secondhollow plunger element 23, and an insert-accommodatingplunger element 22. As depicted inFIG. 1 , the firsthollow plunger element 21 is located adjacent to the insert-accommodatingplunger element 22. The insert-accommodatingplunger element 22 is located adjacent to the secondhollow plunger element 23. - The
body 20 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.FIG. 2 depicts the first plunger opening 31 of an alternative embodiment. The first plunger opening 31 of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2 is advantageously provided with a chamferedplunger surface 33, however a chamferedplunger surface 33 is not necessary. When used herein in relation to a surface, the term “chamfered” shall mean a surface that is rounded or angled. - The first plunger opening 31 depicted in
FIG. 2 is configured to accommodate an insert. Thefirst plunger opening 31 is shown inFIG. 2 accommodating avalve insert 43. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2 , thevalve insert 43 is shown in an exploded view and includes a generally spherically shapedmember 44, aspring 45, and acap 46. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that valves other than thevalve insert 43 shown herein can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , thefirst plunger opening 31 is provided with anannular plunger surface 35 defining aplunger hole 36. Theplunger hole 36 is shaped to accommodate an insert. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2 , theplunger hole 36 is shaped to accommodate thespherical member 44. Thespherical member 44 is configured to operate with thespring 45 and thecap 46. Thecap 46 is shaped to at least partially cover thespherical member 44 and thespring 45. Thecap 46 is preferably fabricated through stamping. However, the cap may be forged or machined without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 2 in a semi-assembled state. InFIG. 3 thevalve insert 43 is shown in a semi-assembled state. As depicted inFIG. 3 , a cross-sectional view of acap spring 47 is shown around the cap. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thecap spring 47 and thecap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of another body. According to one aspect of the present invention, thecap spring 47 and thecap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of a lash adjuster, such as the lash adjuster disclosed in Applicant's “Lash Adjuster Body,” application Ser. No. 10/316,264 filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In the preferred embodiment, thecap spring 47 and thecap 46 ate configured to be inserted into the well 150 of alash adjuster body 110. According to another aspect of the present invention, thecap spring 47 and thecap 46 are configured to be inserted into the well of a valve lifter, such as the valve lifter disclosed in Applicant's “Valve Lifter Body,” application Ser. No. 10/316,263, filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In an alternative embodiment, thecap spring 47 and thecap 46 are configured to be inserted into the lifter well 362 of thevalve lifter body 310. - The
cap 46 is configured to at least partially depress thespring 45. Thespring 45 exerts a force on thespherical member 44. Theannular plunger surface 35 is shown with thespherical member 44 partially located within theplunger hole 36. - Referring now to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , the embodiment is provided with anouter plunger surface 80 that includes anaxis 11. Theouter plunger surface 80 is preferably shaped so that thebody 20 can be inserted into a lash adjuster body, such as that disclosed in the inventors' patent application entitled “Lash Adjuster Body,” application Ser. No. 10/316,264 filed on Oct. 18, 2002. In the preferred embodiment, theouter plunger surface 80 is shaped so that thebody 20 can be inserted into thelash adjuster body 110. Depicted inFIG. 11 is alash adjuster body 110 having an innerlash adjuster surface 140 defining lashadjuster cavity 130. An embodiment of theleakdown plunger 10 is depicted inFIG. 11 within thelash adjuster cavity 130 of thelash adjuster body 110. As shown inFIG. 4 , thebody 20 of theleakdown plunger 10 is provided with anouter plunger surface 80 that is cylindrically shaped. -
FIG. 4 depicts an alternative embodiment of theleakdown plunger 10.FIG. 4 depicts the second plunger opening 32 in greater detail. The second plunger opening 32 is shown with a chamferedplunger surface 34. However, those with skill in the art will appreciate that the second plunger opening 32 may be fabricated without the chamferedplunger surface 34. - The embodiment depicted in
FIG. 4 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces. As shown therein, the embodiment is provided with anouter plunger surface 80. Theouter plunger surface 80 includes a plurality of surfaces.FIG. 4 depicts acylindrical plunger surface 81, an undercutplunger surface 82, and aconical plunger surface 83. As depicted inFIG. 4 , the undercutplunger surface 82 extends from one end of thebody 20 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercutplunger surface 82 is smaller than the diameter of thecylindrical plunger surface 81. - The undercut
plunger surface 82 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercutplunger surface 82 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercutplunger surface 82 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercutplunger surface 82 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outer surface with minor alterations to the grinding wheel. - Referring again to
FIG. 4 , theconical plunger surface 83 is located between thecylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82. Those with skill in the art will appreciate that theouter plunger surface 80 can be fabricated without theconical plunger surface 83 so that thecylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82 abut one another. -
FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of the present invention with a section of theouter plunger surface 80 broken away. The embodiment depicted inFIG. 6 is provided with afirst plunger opening 31. As shown inFIG. 6 , theouter plunger surface 80 encloses aninner plunger surface 50. Theinner plunger surface 50 includes a firstannular plunger surface 35 that defines afirst plunger hole 36 and a secondannular plunger surface 37 that defines asecond plunger hole 49. -
FIG. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of theleakdown plunger 10. Thebody 20 shown inFIG. 7 is provided with anouter plunger surface 80 that includes a plurality of cylindrical and conical surfaces. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 7 , theouter plunger surface 80 includes an outercylindrical plunger surface 81, an undercutplunger surface 82, and an outerconical plunger surface 83. As depicted inFIG. 7 , the undercutplunger surface 82 extends from one end of thebody 20 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercutplunger surface 82 is smaller than, and preferably concentric relative to, the diameter of the outercylindrical plunger surface 81. The outerconical plunger surface 83 is located between the outercylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82. Those with skill in the art will appreciate that theouter plunger surface 80 can be fabricated without theconical plunger surface 83 so that the outercylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82 abut one another. -
FIG. 8 depicts in greater detail the first plunger opening 31 of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 7 . Thefirst plunger opening 31 is configured to accommodate an insert and is preferably provided with a firstchamfered plunger surface 33. Those skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the firstchamfered plunger surface 33 is not necessary. As further shown inFIG. 8 , thefirst plunger opening 31 is provided with a firstannular plunger surface 35 defining aplunger hole 36. - The embodiment depicted in
FIG. 8 is provided with anouter plunger surface 80 that includes a plurality of surfaces. Theouter plunger surface 80 includes acylindrical plunger surface 81, an undercutplunger surface 82, and aconical plunger surface 83. As depicted inFIG. 8 , the undercutplunger surface 82 extends from one end of thebody 20 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercutplunger surface 82 is smaller than the diameter of thecylindrical plunger surface 81. Theconical plunger surface 83 is located between thecylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82. However, those with skill in the art will appreciate that theouter plunger surface 80 can be fabricated without theconical plunger surface 83 so that thecylindrical plunger surface 81 and the undercutplunger surface 82 abut one another. Alternatively, thecylindrical plunger surface 81 may abut the undercutplunger surface 82 so that theconical plunger surface 83 is an annular surface. -
FIG. 9 depicts the second plunger opening 32 of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 7 . The second plunger opening 32 is shown with a secondchamfered plunger surface 34. However, those with skill in the art will appreciate that the second plunger opening 32 may be fabricated without the secondchamfered plunger surface 34. The second plunger opening 32 is provided with a secondannular plunger surface 37. -
FIG. 10 depicts a top view of the second plunger opening 32 of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 7 . InFIG. 10 , the secondannular plunger surface 37 is shown in relation to the firstconical plunger surface 42 and theplunger hole 36. As shown inFIG. 10 , theplunger hole 36 is concentric relative to theouter plunger surface 80 and the annulus formed by the secondannular plunger surface 37. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , theouter plunger surface 80 encloses aninner plunger surface 50. Theinner plunger surface 50 includes a plurality of surfaces. In the alternative embodiment depicted inFIG. 5 , theinner plunger surface 50 includes first innercylindrical surface 56. The first inner cylindrical surface is located adjacent to the firstannular plunger surface 35. The first annular plunger surface is located adjacent to arounded plunger surface 51 that defines aplunger hole 36. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that therounded plunger surface 51 need not be rounded, but may be flat. Therounded plunger surface 51 is located adjacent to a first inner frusto-conical plunger surface 52, which is located adjacent to a second innercylindrical surface 53. The second inner cylindrical surface is located adjacent to a second innerconical plunger surface 54, which is located adjacent to a third innercylindrical surface 55. The third innercylindrical surface 55 is located adjacent to the secondannular plunger surface 37, which is located adjacent to a fourth innercylindrical surface 57. - The
inner plunger surface 50 includes a plurality of diameters. As shown inFIG. 7 , the first innercylindrical surface 56 is provided with a firstinner diameter 61, the third innercylindrical surface 55 is provided with a thirdinner diameter 63, and the fourthcylindrical surface 57 is provided with a fourthinner diameter 64. In the embodiment depicted, the thirdinner diameter 63 is smaller than the fourthinner diameter 64. -
FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of the present invention within another body cooperating with a plurality of inserts. The undercutplunger surface 82 preferably cooperates with another body, such as a lash adjuster body or a valve lifter, to form acavity 93.FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of the present invention within alash adjuster body 110; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be inserted within other bodies, such as roller followers, and valve lifters. - As shown in
FIG. 11 , the undercutplunger surface 82 is configured to cooperate with the innerlash adjuster surface 140 of alash adjuster body 110. The undercutplunger surface 82 and the innerlash adjuster surface 140 of thelash adjuster body 110 cooperate to define acavity 93 that acts as a leakdown path for a liquid such as a lubricant. - The embodiment depicted in
FIG. 11 is further provided with acylindrical plunger surface 81. Thecylindrical plunger surface 81 cooperates with the innerlash adjuster surface 140 of thelash adjuster body 110 to provide afirst chamber 38. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thefirst chamber 38 functions as a high pressure chamber for a liquid, such as a lubricant. - The second plunger opening 32 is configured to cooperate with a socket, such as the
socket 210. Thesocket 210 is configured to cooperate with apush rod 296. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 11 , thesocket 210 preferably functions as a socket, such as that disclosed in Applicants' “Metering Socket,” application Ser. No. 10/316,262, filed on Oct. 18, 2002, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. As shown inFIG. 11 , thesocket 210 is provided with a push rod cooperating surface 295. The push rod cooperating surface 295 is configured to function with apush rod 296. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thepush rod 296 cooperates with the rocker arm (not shown) of an internal combustion engine (not shown). - The
socket 210 cooperates with thebody 20 of theleakdown plunger 10 to define at least in part asecond chamber 39 within theinner plunger surface 50. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thesecond chamber 39 may advantageously function as a reservoir for a lubricant. Theinner plunger surface 50 of thebody 20 functions to increase the quantity of retained fluid in thesecond chamber 39 through the damming action of the second innerconical plunger surface 54. - The
socket 210 is provided with a plurality of passages that function to fluidly communicate with thelash adjuster cavity 130 of thelash adjuster body 110. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 11 , thesocket 210 is provided with asocket passage 237 and aplunger reservoir passage 238. Theplunger reservoir passage 238 functions to fluidly connect thesecond chamber 39 with thecavity 130 of thelash adjuster body 110. As shown inFIG. 11 , thesocket passage 237 functions to fluidly connect thesocket 210 and thecavity 130 of thelash adjuster body 110. -
FIG. 12 to 16 illustrate the presently preferred method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.FIG. 12 to 16 depict what is known in the art as “slug progressions” that show the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body. In the slug progressions shown herein, pins are shown on the punch side; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the pins can be switched to the die side without departing from the scope of the present invention. - The
leakdown plunger 10 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well. - The process of forging an embodiment of the present invention begins with a metal wire or
metal rod 1000 which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off As shown inFIG. 12 , this is accomplished through the use of afirst punch 1001, afirst die 1002, and a first knock outpin 1003. - After being drawn to size, the wire or
rod 1000 is run through a series of dies or extrusions. As depicted inFIG. 13 , the fabrication of the second plunger opening 32 and theouter plunger surface 80 is preferably commenced through use of asecond punch 1004, a second knock outpin 1005, afirst sleeve 1006, and asecond die 1007. The second plunger opening 32 is fabricated through use of the second knock outpin 1005 and thefirst sleeve 1006. Thesecond die 1007 is used to fabricate theouter plunger surface 80. As shown inFIG. 13 , thesecond die 1007 is composed of asecond die top 1008 and asecond die rear 1009. In the preferred forging process, thesecond die rear 1009 is used to form the undercutplunger surface 82 and theconical plunger surface 83. - As depicted in
FIG. 14 , thefirst plunger opening 31 is fabricated through use of athird punch 1010. Within thethird punch 1010 is afirst pin 1011. Thethird punch 1010 and thefirst pin 1011 ate used to fabricate at least a portion of theannular plunger surface 35. As shown inFIG. 14 , it is desirable to preserve the integrity of theouter plunger surface 80 through use of athird die 1012. Thethird die 1012 is composed of athird die top 1013 and athird die rear 1014. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the desirability of using a third knock outpin 1015 and asecond sleeve 1016 to preserve the forging of thesecond plunger opening 32. -
FIG. 15 depicts the forging of theinner plunger surface 50. As depicted, theinner plunger surface 50 is forged through use of apunch extrusion pin 1017. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is advantageous to preserve the integrity of thefirst plunger opening 31 and theouter plunger surface 80. This function is accomplished through use of afourth die 1018 and a fourth knock outpin 1019. Apunch stripper sleeve 1020 is used to remove thepunch extrusion pin 1017 from theinner plunger surface 50. - As shown in
FIG. 16 , theplunger hole 36 is fabricated through use of a piercingpunch 1021 and astripper sleeve 1022. To assure that other forging operations are not affected during the fabrication of theplunger hole 36, afifth die 1023 is used around theouter plunger surface 80 and atool insert 1024 is used at thefirst opening 31. -
FIG. 17 to 21 illustrate an alternative method of fabricating a leakdown plunger.FIG. 17 depicts a metal wire ormetal rod 1000 drawn to size. The ends of the wire orrod 1000 are squared off through the use of afirst punch 1025, afirst die 1027, and a first knock outpin 1028. - As depicted in
FIG. 18 , the fabrication of thefirst plunger opening 31, the second plunger opening 32, and theouter plunger surface 80 is preferably commenced through use of apunch pin 1029, a firstpunch stripper sleeve 1030, second knock outpin 1031, astripper pin 1032, and asecond die 1033. Thefirst opening 31 is fabricated through use of the second knock outpin 1031. Thestripper pin 1032 is used to remove the second knock outpin 1031 from thefirst plunger opening 31. - The second plunger opening 32 is fabricated, at least in part, through the use of the
punch pin 1029. A firstpunch stripper sleeve 1030 is used to remove thepunch pin 1029 from thesecond plunger opening 32. Theouter plunger surface 80 is fabricated, at least in part, through the use of asecond die 1033. Thesecond die 1033 is composed of asecond die top 1036 and asecond die rear 1037. -
FIG. 19 depicts the forging of theinner plunger surface 50. As depicted, theinner plunger surface 50 is forged through the use of anextrusion punch 1038. A secondpunch stripper sleeve 1039 is used to remove theextrusion punch 1038 from theinner plunger surface 50. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is advantageous to preserve the previous forging of the
first plunger opening 31 and theouter plunger surface 80. A third knock outpin 1043 is used to preserve the previous forging operations on thefirst plunger opening 31. Athird die 1040 is used to preserve the previous forging operations on theouter plunger surface 80. As depicted inFIG. 19 , thethird die 1040 is composed of athird die top 1041 and athird die rear 1042. - As depicted in
FIG. 20 , a sizing die 1044 is used in fabricating the second innerconical plunger surface 54 and the second innercylindrical plunger surface 55. The sizing die 1044 is run along theouter plunger surface 80 from the first plunger opening 31 to thesecond plunger opening 32. This operation results in metal flowing through to theinner plunger surface 50. - As shown in
FIG. 21 , theplunger hole 36 is fabricated through use of a piercingpunch 1045 and astripper sleeve 1046. Thestripper sleeve 1046 is used in removing the piercingpunch 1045 from theplunger hole 36. To assure that other forging operations are not affected during the fabrication of theplunger hole 36, afourth die 1047 is used around theouter plunger surface 80 and atool insert 1048 is used at thefirst plunger opening 31. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that further desirable finishing may be accomplished through machining. For example, an undercut
plunger surface 82 may be fabricated and the second plunger opening 32 may be enlarged through machining. Alternatively, as depicted inFIG. 22 , ashave punch 1049 may be inserted into the second plunger opening 32 and plow back excess material. -
FIGS. 23, 24 , and 25 show a preferred embodiment of thelash adjuster body 110. Thelash adjuster body 110 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal is copper. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is iron. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- Those with skill in the art will also appreciate that the metal is a super alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the
lash adjuster body 110 is composed of pearlitic material. According to still another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 is composed of austenitic material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a ferritic material. - The
lash adjuster body 110 is composed of a plurality of lash adjuster elements. According to one aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster element is cylindrical in shape. According to another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster element is conical in shape. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster element is solid. According to still another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster element is hollow. -
FIG. 23 depicts a cross-sectional view of thelash adjuster 110 composed of a plurality of lash adjuster elements.FIG. 23 shows the lash adjuster body, generally designated 110. Thelash adjuster body 110 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of lash adjuster elements. Thelash adjuster body 110 includes a hollowlash adjuster element 121 and a solidlash adjuster element 122. In the preferred embodiment, the solidlash adjuster element 122 is located adjacent to the hollowlash adjuster element 121. - The
lash adjuster body 110 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts. According to one aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as theleakdown plunger 10. According to another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown). According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 accommodates a socket, such as thesocket 210. - The
lash adjuster body 110 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.FIG. 24 depicts a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 24 , thelash adjuster body 110 is provided with an outerlash adjuster surface 180 which is configured to be inserted into another body. According to one aspect of the present invention, the outerlash adjuster surface 180 is configured to be inserted into a valve lifter body, such as thevalve lifter body 310. According to another aspect of the present invention, the outerlash adjuster surface 180 is configured to be inserted into a roller follower, such asroller follower 410. - The outer
lash adjuster surface 180 encloses at least one cavity. As depicted inFIG. 24 , the outerlash adjuster surface 180 encloses alash adjuster cavity 130. Thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a plurality of inserts. According to one aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a leakdown plunger. In the preferred embodiment, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with theleakdown plunger 10. According to another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a socket. In the preferred embodiment, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with thesocket 210. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is configured to cooperate with a push rod. According to still yet another aspect of the present invention, the lash adjuster cavity is configured to cooperate with a push rod seat. - Referring to
FIG. 24 , thelash adjuster body 110 of the present invention is provided with alash adjuster cavity 130 that includes alash adjuster opening 131. Thelash adjuster opening 131 is in a circular shape. Thelash adjuster cavity 130 is provided with the innerlash adjuster surface 140. - The inner
lash adjuster surface 140 includes a plurality of surfaces. According to one aspect of the present invention, the innerlash adjuster surface 140 includes a cylindrical lash adjuster surface. According to another aspect of the present invention, the innerlash adjuster surface 140 includes a conical or frustoconical surface. - As depicted in
FIG. 24 , the innerlash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141, preferably concentric relative to the outerlash adjuster surface 180. Adjacent to the first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141 is a conicallash adjuster surface 142. Adjacent to the conicallash adjuster surface 142 is a second cylindricallash adjuster surface 143. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the innerlash adjuster surface 140 can be fabricated without the conicallash adjuster surface 142. -
FIG. 25 depicts a cut-away view of thelash adjuster body 110 of the preferred embodiment. Thelash adjuster body 110 is provided with a lash adjuster axis 111 depicted as a dashed line designated “111” onFIG. 25 and abottom surface 112 located on theouter surface 180 at the end of thelash adjuster body 110. The innerlash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141 that includes a first innerlash adjuster diameter 184. The first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141 abuts an annularlash adjuster surface 144 with anannulus 145. Theannulus 145 defines a second cylindricallash adjuster surface 143 that includes a second inner lash adjuster diameter 185. In the embodiment depicted, the second inner lash adjuster diameter 185 is smaller than the first innerlash adjuster diameter 184. The annularlash adjuster surface 144 and thebottom surface 112 are oriented to be generally orthogonal to the lash adjuster axis 111 of thelash adjuster body 110, and, when thelash adjuster body 110 is inserted into a roller follower body 410 (as represented inFIG. 37 ), the annularlash adjuster surface 144 and thebottom surface 112 are oriented to be generally orthogonal to the axis of the roller follower body 410 (referred to herein as a “axis 411”). - The
lash adjuster body 110 of the present invention is fabricated through a plurality of processes. According to one aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 is machined. According to another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 is forged. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thelash adjuster body 110 is fabricated through casting. The preferred embodiment of the present invention is forged. As used herein, the term “forge,” “forging,” or “forged” is intended to encompass what is known in the art as “cold forming,” “cold heading,” “deep drawing,” and “hot forging.” - In the preferred embodiment, the
lash adjuster body 110 is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well. - The process of forging the preferred embodiment begins with a metal wire or metal rod which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off by a punch. After being drawn to size, the wire or rod is run through a series of dies or extrusions.
- The
lash adjuster cavity 130 is extruded through use of a punch and an extruding pin After thelash adjuster cavity 130 has been extruded, thelash adjuster cavity 130 is forged. Thelash adjuster cavity 130 is extruded through use of an extruding punch and a forming pin. - Alternatively, the
lash adjuster body 110 is fabricated through machining. As used herein, machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding thelash adjuster body 110 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other machines and other manufacturers of automatic chucking machines can be used. - To machine the
lash adjuster cavity 130, the end containing thelash adjuster opening 131 is faced so that it is substantially flat. Thelash adjuster cavity 130 is bored. Alternatively, thelash adjuster cavity 130 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. - After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- After heat-treating, the
lash adjuster cavity 130 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thelash adjuster cavity 130 can be ground using other grinding machines. -
FIG. 26 depicts the innerlash adjuster surface 140 provided with a lash adjuster well 150. The lash adjuster well 150 is shaped to accommodate acap spring 47. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 26 , the lash adjuster well 150 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the innerlash adjuster surface 140. The cylindrical shape of the lash adjuster well 150 is preferably concentric relative to the outerlash adjuster surface 180. The lash adjuster well 150 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin. - Alternatively, the lash adjuster well 150 is machined by boring the lash adjuster well 150 in a chucking machine. Alternatively, the lash adjuster well 150 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material. After heat-treating, the lash adjuster well 150 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lash adjuster well 150 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- Adjacent to the lash adjuster well 150, in the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 26 , is a lash adjusterlead surface 146 which is conically shaped and can be fabricated through forging or machining. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without the lash adjusterlead surface 146. -
FIG. 27 depicts a view of thelash adjuster opening 131 that reveals the innerlash adjuster surface 140 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The innerlash adjuster surface 140 is provided with a first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141. A lash adjuster well 150 is defined by a second cylindricallash adjuster surface 143. As shown inFIG. 27 , the second cylindricallash adjuster surface 143 is concentric relative to the first cylindricallash adjuster surface 141. - Depicted in
FIG. 28 is alash adjuster body 110 of an alternative embodiment. As shown inFIG. 28 , thelash adjuster body 110 is provided with an outerlash adjuster surface 180. The outerlash adjuster surface 180 includes a plurality of surfaces. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 28 , the outerlash adjuster surface 180 includes an outer cylindricallash adjuster surface 181, an undercutlash adjuster surface 182, and a conicallash adjuster surface 183. As depicted inFIG. 28 , the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 extends from one end of thelash adjuster body 110 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 is smaller than the diameter of the outer cylindricallash adjuster surface 181. - The undercut
lash adjuster surface 182 is forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outerlash adjuster surface 180 with minor alterations to the grinding wheel. - As depicted in
FIG. 28 , the conicallash adjuster surface 183 is located between the outer cylindricallash adjuster surface 181 and the undercut lashadjuster surface 182. The conicallash adjuster surface 183 is forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the conicallash adjuster surface 183 is fabricated through machining. Those with skill in the art will appreciate that the outerlash adjuster surface 180 can be fabricated without the conicallash adjuster surface 183 so that the outer cylindricallash adjuster surface 181 and the undercut lashadjuster surface 182 abut one another. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the features of the
lash adjuster body 110 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication. By way of example and not limitation, aspects of thelash adjuster cavity 130 can be machined; other aspects of the lash adjuster cavity can be forged. - Turning now to the drawings,
FIG. 29, 30 , and 31 show a preferred embodiment of asocket 210. Thesocket 210 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal is copper. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is iron. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- Those with skill in the art will also appreciate that the metal is a super alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the
socket 210 is composed of pearlitic material. According to still another aspect of the present invention, thesocket 210 is composed of austenitic material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a ferritic material. - The
socket 210 is composed of a plurality of socket elements. According to one aspect of the present invention, the socket element is cylindrical in shape. According to another aspect of the present invention, the socket element is conical in shape. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the socket element is solid. According to still another aspect of the present invention, the socket element is hollow. -
FIG. 29 depicts a cross-sectional view of thesocket 210 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of socket elements.FIG. 29 shows the socket, generally designated 210. Thesocket 210 functions to accept a liquid, such as a lubricant and is provided with a plurality of surfaces and passages. Referring now toFIG. 31 , thefirst socket surface 231 functions to accommodate an insert, such as, for example, apush rod 296. - The
socket 210 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of socket elements. Thesocket 210 includes a firsthollow socket element 221, a secondhollow socket element 222, and a thirdhollow socket element 223. As depicted inFIG. 29 , the firsthollow socket element 221 is located adjacent to the secondhollow socket element 222. The secondhollow socket element 222 is located adjacent to the thirdhollow socket element 223. - The first
hollow socket element 221 functions to accept an insert, such as a push rod. The thirdhollow socket element 223 functions to conduct fluid. The secondhollow socket element 222 functions to fluidly link the firsthollow socket element 221 with the thirdhollow socket element 223. - Referring now to
FIG. 30 , thesocket 210 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.FIG. 30 depicts a cross sectional view of thesocket 210 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 30 , the preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided with afirst socket surface 231. Thefirst socket surface 231 is configured to accommodate an insert. Thesocket 210 of the preferred embodiment is also provided with asecond socket surface 232. Thesecond socket surface 232 is configured to cooperate with an engine workpiece. -
FIG. 31 depicts a top view of thefirst socket surface 231. As shown inFIG. 31 , thefirst socket surface 231 is provided with a generally spherical pushrod cooperating surface 235 defining afirst socket hole 236. Preferably, the pushrod cooperating surface 235 is concentric relative to theouter socket surface 240; however, such concentricity is not necessary. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 31 , thefirst socket hole 236 fluidly links thefirst socket surface 231 with asocket passage 237. Thesocket passage 237 is shaped to conduct fluid, preferably a lubricant. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 31 , thesocket passage 237 is cylindrically shaped; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that thesocket passage 237 may assume any shape so long as it is able to conduct fluid. -
FIG. 32 depicts a top view of thesecond socket surface 232. Thesecond socket surface 232 is provided with aplunger reservoir passage 238. Theplunger reservoir passage 238 is configured to conduct fluid, preferably a lubricant. As depicted inFIG. 32 , theplunger reservoir passage 238 of the preferred embodiment is generally cylindrical in shape; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that theplunger reservoir passage 238 may assume any shape so long as it conducts fluid. - The
second socket surface 232 defines asecond socket hole 234. Thesecond socket hole 234 fluidly links thesecond socket surface 232 withsocket passage 237. Thesecond socket surface 232 is provided with a protrudingsurface 233. In the embodiment depicted the protrudingsurface 233 is generally curved The protrudingsurface 233 is preferably concentric relative to theouter socket surface 240. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that it is not necessary that thesecond socket surface 232 be provided with a protrudingsocket surface 233 or, as depicted inFIG. 34 , that the protrudingsocket surface 233 be concentric relative to theouter socket surface 240. Thesecond socket surface 232 may be provided with any surface, and thecurved socket surface 233 of the preferred embodiment may assume any shape so long as thesecond socket surface 232 cooperates with the opening of an engine workpiece. - As shown in
FIG. 29 , the protrudingsurface 233 on thesecond socket surface 232 is located between a firstflat surface 260 and a secondflat surface 261. As shown therein, the protrudingsurface 233 is raised with respect to the first and secondflat surfaces - Referring now to
FIG. 33 , thefirst socket surface 231 is depicted accommodating an insert. As shown inFIG. 33 , that insert is apush rod 296. Thesecond socket surface 232 is further depicted cooperating with an engine workpiece. InFIG. 33 , that engine workpiece is aleakdown plunger 10. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that push rods other than thepush rod 296 shown herein can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that leakdown plungers other than theleakdown plunger 10 shown herein can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. - As depicted in
FIG. 33 , the protrudingsocket surface 233 cooperates with a second plunger opening 32 of theleakdown plunger 10. According to one aspect of the present invention, the protrudingsocket surface 233 preferably corresponds to the second plunger opening 32 of theleakdown plunger 10. According to another aspect of the present invention, the protrudingsocket surface 233 preferably provides a closer fit between thesecond socket surface 232 of thesocket 210 and the second plunger opening 32 of theleakdown plunger 10. - In the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 33 , asocket passage 237 is provided. Thesocket passage 237 preferably functions to lubricate the pushrod cooperating surface 235. The embodiment depicted inFIG. 33 is also provided with aplunger reservoir passage 238. Theplunger reservoir passage 238 is configured to conduct fluid, preferably a lubricant. - The
plunger reservoir passage 238 performs a plurality of functions. According to one aspect of the present invention, theplunger reservoir passage 238 fluidly links the second plunger opening 32 of theleakdown plunger 10 and theouter socket surface 240 of thesocket 210. According to another aspect of the present invention, theplunger reservoir passage 238 fluidly links theinner plunger surface 50 of theleakdown plunger 10 and theouter socket surface 240 of thesocket 210. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
plunger reservoir passage 238 can be extended so that it joinssocket passage 237 within thesocket 210. However, it is not necessary that thepassages socket 210. As depicted in FIG. 33, theplunger reservoir passage 238 of an embodiment of the present invention is fluidly linked tosocket passage 237. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that theouter socket surface 240 is fluidly linked to thefirst socket surface 231 in the embodiment depicted inFIG. 33 . - As depicted in
FIG. 34 , thesocket 210 is provided with anouter socket surface 240 that is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece. As shown inFIG. 34 , theouter socket surface 240 is cylindrically shaped. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that theouter socket surface 240 may assume any shape so long as it is configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece. - As depicted in
FIG. 35 , theouter socket surface 240 may advantageously be configured to cooperate with the inner surface of an engine workpiece. As shown inFIG. 35 , theouter socket surface 240 is configured to cooperate with the secondinner lifter surface 370 of avalve lifter body 310. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the outer socket surface 40 may advantageously be configured to cooperate with the inner surfaces of other lifter bodies. -
FIG. 36 depicts theouter socket surface 240 configured to cooperate with the inner surface of another workpiece. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the outer socket surface 40 may be configured to cooperate with a lash adjuster. As shown inFIG. 36 , theouter socket surface 240 is configured to cooperate with the innerlash adjuster surface 140 of alash adjuster body 110. As depicted inFIG. 37 , thelash adjuster body 110, with thesocket 210 of the present invention located therein, may be inserted into aroller follower body 410. - Referring now to
FIG. 38 toFIG. 42 , the presently preferred method of fabricating asocket 210 is disclosed. FIGS. 38 to 42 depict what is known in the art as a “slug progression” that shows the fabrication of the present invention from a rod or wire to a finished or neat-finished body. In the slug progression shown herein, pins are shown on the punch side; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the pins can be switched to the die side without departing from the scope of the present invention. - The
socket 210 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well. - The process of forging an embodiment of the present invention begins with a metal wire or
metal rod 2000 which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off As shown inFIG. 38 , this is accomplished through the use of afirst punch 2001, afirst die 2002, and a first knock outpin 2003. - After being drawn to size, the wire or
rod 2000 is run through a series of dies or extrusions. As depicted inFIG. 39 , the fabrication of thefirst socket surface 231, theouter socket surface 240, and thesecond socket surface 232 is preferably commenced through use of asecond punch 2004, a second knock outpin 2005, and asecond die 2006. Thesecond punch 2004 is used to commence fabrication of thefirst socket surface 231. Thesecond die 2006 is used against theouter socket surface 240. The second knock outpin 2005 is used to commence fabrication of thesecond socket surface 232. -
FIG. 40 depicts the fabrication of thefirst socket surface 231, thesecond socket surface 232, and theouter socket surface 240 through use of athird punch 2007, afirst stripper sleeve 2008, a third knock outpin 2009, and athird die 2010. Thefirst socket surface 231 is fabricated using thethird punch 2007. Thefirst stripper sleeve 2008 is used to remove thethird punch 2007 from thefirst socket surface 231. Thesecond socket surface 232 is fabricated through use of the third knock outpin 2009, and theouter socket surface 240 is fabricated through use of thethird die 2010. - As depicted in
FIG. 41 , the fabrication of thepassages punch pin 2011 and a fourth knock out pin 2012. Asecond stripper sleeve 2013 is used to remove thepunch pin 2011 from thefirst socket surface 231. The fourth knock out pin 2012 is used to fabricate theplunger reservoir passage 238. Afourth die 2014 is used to prevent change to theouter socket surface 240 during the fabrication of thepassages - Referring now to
FIG. 42 , fabrication ofsocket passage 237 is completed through use ofpin 2015. Athird stripper sleeve 2016 is used to remove thepin 2015 from thefirst socket surface 231. Afifth die 2017 is used to prevent change to theouter socket surface 240 during the fabrication ofsocket passage 237. Atool insert 2018 is used to prevent change to thesecond socket surface 232 and theplunger reservoir passage 238 during the fabrication ofsocket passage 237. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that further desirable finishing may be accomplished through machining. For example,
passages - Turning now to the drawings,
FIG. 43, 44 , and 45 show a preferred embodiment of thevalve lifter body 310. Thevalve lifter 310 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal is copper. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is iron. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- Those with skill in the art will also appreciate that the metal is a super alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the
valve lifter 310 is composed of pearlitic material. According to still another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter 310 is composed of austenitic material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a ferritic material. - The
valve lifter body 310 is composed of a plurality of lifter elements. According to one aspect of the present invention, the lifter element is cylindrical in shape. According to another aspect of the present invention, the lifter element is conical in shape. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the lifter element is solid. According to still another aspect of the present invention, the lifter element is hollow. -
FIG. 43 depicts a cross-sectional view of thevalve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention composed of a plurality of lifter elements.FIG. 43 shows the valve lifter body, generally designated 310, with aroller 390. Thevalve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of lifter elements. Thevalve lifter body 310 includes a firsthollow lifter element 321, a secondhollow lifter element 322, and asolid lifter element 323. In the preferred embodiment, thesolid lifter element 323 is located between the firsthollow lifter element 321 and the secondhollow lifter element 322. - The
valve lifter body 310 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts. According to one aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 accommodates a lash adjuster, such as thelash adjuster body 110. According to another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as theleakdown plunger 10. According to another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown). According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 accommodates a socket, such as thesocket 210. - The
valve lifter body 310 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.FIG. 44 depicts a cross-sectional view of thevalve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 44 , thevalve lifter body 310 is provided with anouter lifter surface 380 which is cylindrically shaped. Theouter lifter surface 380 encloses a plurality of cavities. As depicted inFIG. 44 , theouter lifter surface 380 encloses afirst lifter cavity 330 and asecond lifter cavity 331. Thefirst lifter cavity 330 includes a firstinner lifter surface 340. Thesecond lifter cavity 331 includes a secondinner lifter surface 370. -
FIG. 45 depicts a top view and provides greater detail of thefirst lifter cavity 330 of the preferred embodiment. As shown inFIG. 45 , thefirst lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert. The firstinner lifter surface 340 is configured to house acylindrical insert 390, which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, functions as a roller. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that housing a cylindrical insert can be accomplished through a plurality of different configurations. The firstinner lifter surface 340 of the preferred embodiment includes a curved surface and a plurality of walls. As depicted inFIG. 45 , theinner lifter surface 340 includes afirst lifter wall 341, asecond lifter wall 342, athird lifter wall 343, and afourth lifter wall 344. Thefirst lifter wall 341 is adjacent to acurved lifter surface 348. Thecurved lifter surface 348 is adjacent to asecond lifter wall 342. The third andfourth walls curved lifter surface 348. - Referring to
FIG. 44 , thevalve lifter body 310 of the present invention is provided with asecond lifter cavity 331 which includes a second lifter opening 333 which is in a circular shape. Thesecond lifter cavity 331 is provided with a secondinner lifter surface 370. The secondinner lifter surface 370 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped. Alternatively, the secondinner lifter surface 370 is configured to house a lash adjuster generally designated 110 onFIG. 54 . However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the secondinner lifter surface 370 can be conically or frustoconically shaped without departing from the spirit of the present invention. - The present invention is fabricated through a plurality of processes. According to one aspect of the present invention, the
valve lifter body 310 is machined. According to another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 is forged. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, thevalve lifter body 310 is fabricated through casting. Thevalve lifter body 310 of the preferred embodiment of the present invention is forged. As used herein, the term “forge,” “forging,” or “forged” is intended to encompass what is known in the art as “cold forming,” “cold heading,” “deep drawing,” and “hot forging.” - The
valve lifter body 310 is preferably forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well. - The process of forging the
valve lifter body 310 preferably begins with a metal wire or metal rod which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off by a punch. After being drawn to size, the wire or rod is run through a series of dies or extrusions. Thesecond lifter cavity 331 is extruded through use of a punch and an extruding pin. After thesecond lifter cavity 331 has been extruded, thefirst lifter cavity 330 is forged. Thefirst lifter cavity 330 is extruded through use of an extruding punch and a forming pin. - Alternatively, the
valve lifter body 310 is fabricated through machining. As used herein, machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding thevalve lifter body 310 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other machines and other manufacturers of automatic chucking machines can be used. - To machine the
second lifter cavity 331, the end containing the second lifter opening 333 is faced so that it is substantially flat. Thesecond lifter cavity 331 is bored. Alternatively, thesecond lifter cavity 331 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. - After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- After heat-treating, the
second lifter cavity 331 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thesecond lifter cavity 331 can be ground using other grinding machines. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the other features of the present invention may be fabricated through machining. For example, the
first lifter cavity 330 can be machined. To machine thefirst lifter cavity 330, the end containing thefirst lifter opening 332 is faced so that it is substantially flat. Thefirst lifter cavity 330 is drilled and then thefirst lifter opening 332 is broached using a broaching machine. - In an alternative embodiment of the present invention depicted in
FIG. 46 , thefirst lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a firstinner lifter surface 350. The firstinner lifter surface 350 includes a lifter surface, a plurality of curved surfaces, and a plurality of walls referred to herein as afirst wall 351, asecond wall 353, athird wall 356, and afourth wall 357. As depicted inFIG. 46 , thefirst wall 351 is adjacent to a firstcurved lifter surface 354. The firstcurved lifter surface 354 is adjacent to alifter surface 352. Thelifter surface 352 is adjacent to a secondcurved lifter surface 355. The secondcurved lifter surface 355 is adjacent to thesecond wall 353. - As depicted in
FIG. 46 , thethird wall 356 and thefourth wall 357 are located on opposing sides of thesecond wall 353.FIG. 47 depicts a cross-sectional view of thevalve lifter body 310 with thefirst lifter cavity 330 shown inFIG. 46 . As shown inFIG. 47 , thelifter surface 352 preferably is, relative to the first and secondcurved surfaces valve lifter axis 311 of thevalve lifter body 310. - In another alternative embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in
FIG. 48 and 49, thefirst lifter cavity 330 is provided with a first lifter opening 332 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a firstinner lifter surface 350. The firstinner lifter surface 350 includes a plurality of walls referred to herein as afirst wall 351, asecond wall 353, athird wall 356, and afourth wall 357. The firstinner lifter surface 350 also includes a plurality of angled walls referred to herein as a first angled wall 369-a, a second angled wall 369-b, a third angled wall 369-c, and a fourth angled wall 369-d. Referring toFIG. 48 , thefirst wall 351 is adjacent to alifter surface 352, which is preferably circular in shape and oriented to be generally orthogonal to thevalve lifter axis 311 of thevalve lifter body 310. InFIG. 48 , thefirst wall 351 is adjacent to a firstangled lifter surface 365 and a secondangled lifter surface 366. The first angled wall 369-a is shown extending axially into thevalve lifter body 310 from thefirst lifter opening 332 and terminating at the first angled surface 165. The firstangled lifter surface 365 is adjacent to thelifter surface 352 and a firstcurved lifter surface 354. As depicted inFIG. 49 the firstangled lifter surface 365 is configured to be at anangle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to thevalve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144). Advantageously, theangle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees. - The second
angled lifter surface 366 is adjacent to thelifter surface 352. The fourth angled wall 369-d is shown extending axially into thevalve lifter body 310 from thefirst lifter opening 332 and terminating at the secondangled surface 366. As shown inFIG. 49 , the secondangled lifter surface 366 is configured to be at anangle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to thevalve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144). Advantageously, theangle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees. The secondangled lifter surface 366 is adjacent to a secondcurved lifter surface 355. The secondcurved lifter surface 355 is adjacent to a thirdangled lifter surface 367 and athird wall 356. The thirdangled lifter surface 367 is adjacent to thelifter surface 352 and thesecond wall 353. The second angled wall 369-b is shown extending axially into thevalve lifter body 310 from thefirst lifter opening 332 and terminating at the thirdangled surface 367. As depicted inFIG. 49 , the thirdangled lifter surface 367 is configured to be at anangle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to thevalve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plane of the annular lash adjuster surface 144). Advantageously, theangle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees. - The
second wall 353 is adjacent to a fourthangled lifter surface 368. The fourthangled lifter surface 368 adjacent to the firstcurved lifter surface 354 and afourth wall 357. The third angled wall 369-c is shown extending axially into thevalve lifter body 310 fromfirst lifter opening 332 and terminating at the fourthangled surface 368. As depicted inFIG. 49 , the fourthangled lifter surface 368 is configured to be at anangle 300 relative to a plane that is generally orthogonal to thevalve lifter axis 311 of the valve lifter body 310 (such as the plan of the annularlash adjuster surface 144. Advantageously, theangle 300 measures preferably between twenty-five and about ninety degrees.FIG. 49 depicts a cross-sectional view of an embodiment with thefirst lifter cavity 330 ofFIG. 48 . - Shown in
FIG. 50 is an alternative embodiment of thefirst lifter cavity 330 depicted inFIG. 48 . In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 50 , thefirst lifter cavity 330 is provided with achamfered lifter opening 332 and a firstinner lifter surface 350. The chamfered lifter opening 332 functions so that a cylindrical insert can be introduced to thevalve lifter body 310 with greater ease. The chamferedlifter opening 332 accomplishes this function throughlifter chamfers lifter opening 332. The lifter chamfers 360, 361 of the embodiment shown inFIG. 50 are flat surfaces at an angle relative to thelifter walls cylindrical insert 390 can be introduced through the first lifter opening 332 with greater ease. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lifter chamfers 360, 361 can be fabricated in a number of different configurations; so long as the resulting configuration renders introduction of acylindrical insert 390 through the first lifter opening 332 with greater ease, it is a “chamfered lifter opening” within the spirit and scope of the present invention. - The lifter chamfers 360, 361 are preferably fabricated through forging via an extruding punch pin. Alternatively, the lifter chamfers 360, 361 are machined by being ground before heat-treating. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other methods of fabrication can be employed within the scope of the present invention.
-
FIG. 51 discloses yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention. As depicted inFIG. 51 , thevalve lifter body 310 is provided with asecond lifter cavity 331 which includes a plurality of cylindrical and conical surfaces. Thesecond lifter cavity 331 depicted inFIG. 51 includes a secondinner lifter surface 370. The secondinner lifter surface 370 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped, concentric relative to the cylindrically shapedouter surface 380. The secondinner lifter surface 370 is provided with alifter well 362. The lifter well 362 is shaped to accommodate a spring (not shown). In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 51 , the lifter well 362 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the secondinner lifter surface 370. The cylindrical shape of the lifter well 362 is preferably concentric relative to theouter lifter surface 380. The lifter well 362 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin. - Alternatively, the lifter well 362 is machined by boring the lifter well 362 in a chucking machine. Alternatively, the lifter well 362 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material. After heat-treating, the lifter well 362 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the lifter well 362 can be ground using other grinding machines.
- Adjacent to the lifter well 362, the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 51 is provided with alead lifter surface 364 which can be fabricated through forging or machining. As shown therein the lead lifter surface is generally annular in shape and generally frusto-conical. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without thelead lifter surface 364. - Depicted in
FIG. 52 is another alternative embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 52 , thevalve lifter body 310 is provided with anouter lifter surface 380. Theouter lifter surface 380 includes a plurality of surfaces. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 52 , theouter lifter surface 380 includes acylindrical lifter surface 381, an undercutlifter surface 382, and aconical lifter surface 383. As depicted inFIG. 52 , the undercutlifter surface 382 extends from one end of thevalve lifter body 310 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercutlifter surface 382 is smaller than the diameter of thecylindrical lifter surface 381. - The undercut
lifter surface 382 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercutlifter surface 382 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercutlifter surface 382 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercutlifter surface 382 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into theouter lifter surface 380 with minor alterations to the grinding wheel. - As depicted in
FIG. 52 , theconical lifter surface 383 is located between thecylindrical lifter surface 381 and the undercutlifter surface 382. Theconical lifter surface 383 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, theconical lifter surface 383 is fabricated through machining. Those with skill in the art will appreciate that theouter lifter surface 380 can be fabricated without theconical lifter surface 383 so that thecylindrical lifter surface 381 and the undercutlifter surface 382 abut one another. -
FIG. 53 depicts another embodimentvalve lifter body 310 of the present invention. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 53 , theouter lifter surface 380 includes a plurality of outer surfaces. Theouter lifter surface 380 is provided with a firstcylindrical lifter surface 381. The firstcylindrical lifter surface 381 contains afirst lifter depression 393. Adjacent to the firstcylindrical lifter surface 381 is a fifthcylindrical lifter surface 382. The fifthcylindrical lifter surface 382 has a radius which is smaller than the radius of the firstcylindrical lifter surface 381. The fifthcylindrical lifter surface 382 is adjacent to a secondcylindrical lifter surface 384. The secondcylindrical lifter surface 384 has a radius which is greater than the radius of the fifthcylindrical lifter surface 382. The secondcylindrical lifter surface 384 contains alifter ridge 387. Adjacent to the secondcylindrical lifter surface 384 is aconical lifter surface 383. Theconical lifter surface 383 is adjacent to a thirdcylindrical lifter surface 385. The thirdcylindrical lifter surface 385 and theconical lifter surface 383 contain asecond lifter depression 392. Thesecond lifter depression 392 defines alifter hole 391. Adjacent to the thirdcylindrical lifter surface 385 is a flatouter lifter surface 388. The flatouter lifter surface 388 is adjacent to a fourthcylindrical lifter surface 386. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the features of the
valve lifter body 310 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication. By way of example and not limitation, thefirst lifter cavity 330 can be machined while thesecond lifter cavity 331 is forged. Conversely, thesecond lifter cavity 331 can be machined while thefirst lifter cavity 330 is forged. - Turning now to the drawings,
FIGS. 55 and 56 show a preferred embodiment of theroller follower body 410. Theroller follower body 410 is composed of a metal, preferably aluminum. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal is copper. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is iron. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metal is an alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the metal includes ferrous and non-ferrous materials. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a steel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that steel is in a plurality of formulations and the present invention is intended to encompass all of them. According to one embodiment of the present invention the steel is a low carbon steel. In another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a medium carbon steel. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the steel is a high carbon steel.
- Those with skill in the art will also appreciate that the metal is a super alloy. According to one aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is bronze; according to another aspect of the present invention, the super alloy is a high nickel material. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the
roller follower body 410 is composed of pearlitic material. According to still another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 is composed of austenitic material. According to another aspect of the present invention, the metal is a ferritic material. - The
roller follower body 410 is composed of a plurality of roller elements. According to one aspect of the present invention, the roller element is cylindrical in shape. According to another aspect of the present invention, the roller element is conical in shape. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the roller element is solid. According to still another aspect of the present invention, the roller element is hollow. -
FIG. 55 depicts a cross-sectional view of theroller follower body 410 composed of a plurality of roller elements.FIG. 55 shows the roller follower body, generally designated 410. Theroller follower body 410 of the preferred embodiment is fabricated from a single piece of metal wire or rod and is described herein as a plurality of roller elements. Theroller follower body 410 includes a firsthollow roller element 421, a secondhollow roller element 422, and a thirdhollow roller element 423. As depicted inFIG. 55 , the firsthollow roller element 421 is located adjacent to the thirdhollow roller element 423. The thirdhollow roller element 423 is located adjacent to the secondhollow roller element 422. - The first
hollow roller element 421 has a cylindrically shaped inner surface. The secondhollow roller element 422 has a cylindrically shaped inner surface with a diameter which is smaller than the diameter of the firsthollow roller element 421. The thirdhollow roller element 423 has an inner surface shaped so that an insert (not shown) tests against its inner surface “above” the secondhollow roller element 422. Those skilled in the art will understand that, as used herein, terms like “above” and terms of similar import are used to specify general relationships between parts, and not necessarily to indicate orientation of the part or of the overall assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the thirdhollow roller element 423 has a conically or frustoconically shaped inner surface; however, an annularly shaped surface could be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. - The
roller follower body 410 functions to accommodate a plurality of inserts. According to one aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 accommodates a lash adjuster, such as thelash adjuster body 110. According to another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 accommodates a leakdown plunger, such as theleakdown plunger 210. According to another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 accommodates a push rod seat (not shown). According to yet another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 accommodates a socket, such as themetering socket 10. - The
roller follower body 410 is provided with a plurality of outer surfaces and inner surfaces.FIG. 56 depicts a cross-sectional view of theroller follower body 410 of the preferred embodiment. As shown therein, theroller follower body 410 is provided with anouter roller surface 480 which is cylindrically shaped. Theouter surface 480 encloses a plurality of cavities. As depicted inFIG. 56 , theouter surface 480 encloses afirst cavity 430 and asecond cavity 431. Thefirst cavity 430 includes a firstinner surface 440. Thesecond cavity 431 includes a secondinner surface 470. -
FIG. 57 a andFIG. 57 b depict top views and provide greater detail of thefirst roller cavity 430 of the preferred embodiment. As shown inFIG. 57 b, thefirst roller cavity 430 is provided with a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert. Referring toFIG. 57 a, the firstinner roller surface 440 is configured to house acylindrical insert 490, which, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, functions as a roller. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that housing a cylindrical insert can be accomplished through a plurality of different configurations. InFIG. 57 a and 57 b, the firstinner roller surface 440 of the preferred embodiment includes a plurality of walls. As depicted inFIG. 57 a and 57 b, theinner roller surface 440 defines a transition ortransition roller opening 448 which is in the shape of a polygon, the preferred embodiment being rectangular. Theinner roller surface 440 includes opposingroller walls roller walls first roller wall 441 and thesecond roller wall 442 are located generally on opposite sides of thetransition roller opening 448. Thetransition roller opening 448 is further defined by the third andfourth roller walls - Referring now to
FIG. 56 , thesecond roller cavity 431 of the preferred embodiment includes a second toller opening 433 that is in a circular shape. Thesecond roller cavity 431 is provided with a secondinner roller surface 470 that is configured to house aninner body 434. In the preferred embodiment theinner body 434 is thelash adjuster body 110. The secondinner roller surface 470 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped. Alternatively, the secondinner roller surface 470 is conically or frustoconically shaped. As depicted inFIG. 56 , the secondinner roller surface 470 is a plurality of surfaces including a cylindrically shapedroller surface 471 adjacent to a conically or frustoconically shapedroller surface 472. - The present invention is fabricated through a plurality of processes. According to one aspect of the present invention, the
roller follower body 410 is machined. According to another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 is forged. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, theroller follower body 410 is fabricated through casting. The preferred embodiment of the present invention is forged. As used herein, the term “forge,” “forging,” or “forged” is intended to encompass what is known in the art as “cold forming,” “cold heading,” “deep drawing,” and “hot forging.” - The
roller follower body 410 of the preferred embodiment is forged with use of a National® 750 parts former machine. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other part formers, such as, for example, a Waterbury machine can be used. Those skilled in the art will further appreciate that other forging methods can be used as well. - The process of forging in the preferred embodiment begins with a metal wire or metal rod which is drawn to size. The ends of the wire or rod are squared off by a punch. After being drawn to size, the wire or rod is run through a series of dies or extrusions.
- The
second roller cavity 431 is extruded through use of a punch and an extruding pin. After thesecond roller cavity 431 has been extruded, thefirst roller cavity 430 is forged. Thefirst roller cavity 430 is extruded through use of an extruding punch and a forming pin. - Alternatively, the
roller follower body 410 is fabricated through machining. As used herein, machining means the use of a chucking machine, a drilling machine, a grinding machine, or a broaching machine. Machining is accomplished by first feeding theroller follower body 410 into a chucking machine, such as an ACME-Gridley automatic chucking machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other machines and other manufacturers of automatic chucking machines can be used. - To machine the
second roller cavity 431, the end containing the second roller opening 433 is faced so that it is substantially flat. Thesecond roller cavity 431 is bored. Alternatively, thesecond roller cavity 431 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. - After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material.
- After heat-treating, the
second roller cavity 431 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thesecond roller cavity 431 can be ground using other grinding machines. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the other features of the present invention may be fabricated through machining. For example, the
first roller cavity 430 can be machined. To machine thefirst roller cavity 430, the end containing thefirst roller opening 432 is faced so that it is substantially flat. Thefirst roller cavity 430 is drilled and then thefirst roller opening 432 is broached using a broaching machine. - In an alternative embodiment depicted in
FIG. 58 , thefirst roller cavity 430 is provided with a firstinner roller surface 450 and first roller opening 432 shaped to accept acylindrical insert 490. The firstinner roller surface 450 defines atransition roller opening 452 and includes a plurality of curved surfaces and a plurality of walls. As depicted inFIG. 58 , afirst wall 451 is adjacent to a firstcurved roller surface 454. The firstcurved roller surface 454 and a secondcurved roller surface 455 are located on opposing sides of thetransition roller opening 452. The secondcurved roller surface 455 is adjacent to asecond wall 453. On opposing sides of the first andsecond walls fourth walls -
FIG. 59 depicts a cross-sectional view of theroller follower body 410 with thefirst roller cavity 430 shown inFIG. 59 . As shown inFIG. 59 , theroller follower body 410 is also provided with asecond cavity 431 which includes asecond opening 433 which is in a circular shape. Thesecond cavity 431 is provided with a secondinner roller surface 470 which includes a plurality of surfaces. The secondinner roller surface 470 includes a cylindrically shapedroller surface 471 and a frustoconically shapedroller surface 472. - Alternatively, the second
inner roller surface 470 includes a plurality of cylindrical surfaces. As depicted inFIG. 60 , the secondinner roller surface 470 includes a firstcylindrical roller surface 471 and a secondcylindrical roller surface 473. The secondinner roller surface 470 of the embodiment depicted inFIG. 60 also includes afrustoconical roller surface 472. - In yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention, as depicted in
FIG. 61 , thefirst roller cavity 430 is provided with a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert and a firstinner roller surface 450. The firstinner roller surface 450 defines atransition roller opening 452 linking thefirst roller cavity 430 with asecond toller cavity 431. Thesecond roller cavity 431 is provided with a secondinner roller surface 470 which includes a plurality of surfaces. As shown inFIG. 61 , the secondinner roller surface 470 includes acylindrical roller surface 471 and afrustoconical roller surface 472. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the second
inner roller surface 470 may include a plurality of cylindrical surfaces.FIG. 62 depicts a secondinner roller surface 470 which includes a firstcylindrical roller surface 471 adjacent to afrustoconical roller surface 472. Adjacent to thefrustoconical roller surface 472 is a secondcylindrical roller surface 473. The secondcylindrical roller surface 473 depicted inFIG. 62 defines atransition roller opening 452 linking asecond roller cavity 431 with afirst toller cavity 430. Thefirst roller cavity 430 is provided with a firstinner roller surface 450 and a first roller opening 432 shaped to accept a cylindrical insert. The firstinner roller surface 450 includes a plurality of curved surfaces, angled surfaces, walls, and angled walls. -
FIG. 63 depicts a firstinner roller surface 450 depicted inFIG. 61 and 62. Afirst wall 451 is adjacent to thetransition roller opening 452, a firstangled roller surface 465, and a secondangled roller surface 466. The firstangled roller surface 465 is adjacent to thetransition roller opening 452, a first roller curvedsurface 454, and a first angled wall 469-a. As depicted inFIG. 61 and 62, the firstangled roller surface 465 is configured to be at anangle 400 relative to the plane of a first angled wall 469-a, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees. - The second
angled roller surface 466 is adjacent to thetransitional roller opening 452 and a fourth angled wall 469-d. As shown inFIG. 61 and 62, the secondangled roller surface 466 is configured to be at anangle 400 relative to the plane of the fourth angled wall 469-d, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees. The secondangled roller surface 466 is adjacent to a secondcurved roller surface 455. The secondcurved roller surface 455 is adjacent to a thirdangled roller surface 467 and athird wall 456. The thirdangled roller surface 467 is adjacent to thetransitional roller opening 452, asecond wall 453, and a second angled wall 469-b. As depicted inFIG. 61 & 62 , the thirdangled roller surface 467 is configured to be at anangle 400 relative to the plane of the second angled wall 469-b, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees. - The
second wall 453 is adjacent to a fourthangled roller surface 468. The fourthangled roller surface 468 adjacent to the firstcurved roller surface 454, a third angled wall 469-c, and afourth wall 457. As depicted inFIG. 61 and 62, the fourthangled roller surface 468 is configured to be at an angle relative to the plane of the third angled wall 469-c, preferably between sixty-five and about ninety degrees.FIG. 61 and 62 depict cross-sectional views of embodiments with thefirst roller cavity 430 ofFIG. 63 . - Shown in
FIG. 64 is an alternative embodiment of thefirst roller cavity 430 depicted inFIG. 63 . In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 64 , thefirst roller cavity 430 is provided with achamfered roller opening 432 and a firstinner roller surface 450. The chamfered roller opening 432 functions so that a cylindrical insert can be introduced to theroller follower body 410 with greater ease. The chamferedroller opening 432 accomplishes this function throughroller chamfers roller opening 432. The roller chamfers 460, 461 of the embodiment shown inFIG. 64 are flat surfaces at an angle relative to thewalls cylindrical insert 490 can be introduced through the first roller opening 432 with greater ease. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the roller chamfers 460, 461 can be fabricated in a number of different configurations; so long as the resulting configuration renders introduction of acylindrical insert 490 through the first roller opening 432 with greater ease, it is a “chamfered roller opening” within the spirit and scope of the present invention. - The roller chamfers 460, 461 are preferably fabricated through forging via an extruding punch pin. Alternatively, the roller chamfers 460, 461 are machined by being ground before heat-treating. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other methods of fabrication can be employed within the scope of the present invention.
-
FIG. 65 discloses thesecond roller cavity 431 of yet another alternative embodiment of the present invention. As depicted inFIG. 65 , theroller follower body 410 is provided with asecond roller cavity 431 which includes a plurality of cylindrical and conical surfaces. Thesecond roller cavity 431 depicted inFIG. 65 includes a secondinner roller surface 470. The secondinner roller surface 470 of the preferred embodiment is cylindrically shaped, concentric relative to the cylindrically shapedouter roller surface 480. The secondinner roller surface 470 is provided with a transition ortransitional tube 462. Thetransitional tube 462 is shaped to fluidly link thesecond roller cavity 431 with afirst roller cavity 430. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 65 , thetransitional tube 462 is cylindrically shaped at a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the secondinner roller surface 470. The cylindrical shape of thetransitional tube 462 is preferably concentric relative to theouter roller surface 480. Thetransitional tube 462 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die pin. - Alternatively, the
transitional tube 462 is machined by boring thetransitional tube 462 in a chucking machine. Alternatively, thetransitional tube 462 can be drilled and then profiled with a special internal diameter forming tool. After being run through the chucking machine, heat-treating is completed so that the required Rockwell hardness is achieved. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that heat-treating can be accomplished by applying heat so that the material is beyond its critical temperature and then oil quenching the material. After heat-treating, thetransitional tube 462 is ground using an internal diameter grinding machine, such as a Heald grinding machine. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that thetransitional tube 462 can be ground using other grinding machines. - Adjacent to the
transitional tube 462, the embodiment depicted inFIG. 64 is provided with a conically-shaped rollerlead surface 464 which can be fabricated through forging or machining. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be fabricated without theroller lead surface 464 - Depicted in
FIG. 66 is aroller follower body 410 of an alternative embodiment of the present invention. As shown inFIG. 66 , theroller follower body 410 is provided with anouter roller surface 480. Theouter roller surface 480 includes a plurality of surfaces. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 66 , theouter roller surface 480 includes acylindrical roller surface 481, an undercutroller surface 482, and aconical roller surface 483. As depicted inFIG. 66 , the undercutroller surface 482 extends from one end of theroller follower body 410 and is cylindrically shaped. The diameter of the undercutroller surface 482 is smaller than the diameter of thecylindrical roller surface 481. - The undercut
roller surface 482 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, the undercutroller surface 482 is fabricated through machining. Machining the undercutroller surface 482 is accomplished through use of an infeed centerless grinding machine, such as a Cincinnati grinder. The surface is first heat-treated and then the undercutroller surface 482 is ground via a grinding wheel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that additional surfaces can be ground into the outer roller surface with minor alterations to the grinding wheel. - As depicted in
FIG. 66 , theconical roller surface 483 is located between thecylindrical toller surface 481 and the undercutroller surface 482. Theconical roller surface 483 is preferably forged through use of an extruding die. Alternatively, theconical roller surface 483 is fabricated through machining. Those with skill in the art will appreciate that theouter roller surface 480 can be fabricated without theconical roller surface 483 so that thecylindrical surface 481 and the undercutroller surface 482 abut one another. -
FIG. 67 depicts aroller follower body 410 constituting another embodiment. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 67 , theouter roller surface 480 includes a plurality of surfaces. Theouter roller surface 480 is provided with a firstcylindrical roller surface 481. The firstcylindrical roller surface 481 contains afirst roller depression 493. Adjacent to the firstcylindrical roller surface 481 is a secondcylindrical roller surface 482. The secondcylindrical roller surface 482 has a radius that is smaller than the radius of the firstcylindrical roller surface 481. The secondcylindrical roller surface 482 is adjacent to a thirdcylindrical roller surface 484. The thirdcylindrical roller surface 484 has a radius that is greater than the radius of the secondcylindrical roller surface 482. The thirdcylindrical roller surface 484 contains aridge 487. Adjacent to the thirdcylindrical roller surface 484 is aconical roller surface 483. Theconical roller surface 483 is adjacent to a fourthcylindrical roller surface 485. The fourthcylindrical roller surface 485 and theconical roller surface 483 contain asecond roller depression 492. Thesecond roller depression 492 defines aroller hole 491. Adjacent to the fourthcylindrical roller surface 485 is a flatouter roller surface 488. The flatouter roller surface 488 is adjacent to a fifthcylindrical roller surface 486. - Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the features of the
roller follower body 410 may be fabricated through a combination of machining, forging, and other methods of fabrication. By way of example and not limitation, thefirst roller cavity 430 can be machined while thesecond roller cavity 431 is forged. Conversely, thesecond roller cavity 431 can be machined while thefirst roller cavity 430 is forged. - While this invention has been particularly shown and described with references to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. An assembly, comprising:
a) a socket body including a forgeable material and provided with:
i) an outer socket surface, a first socket surface, a second socket surface, and a socket passage;
ii) the outer socket surface is configured to cooperate with a second inner lifter surface of a valve lifter body;
iii) the first socket surface includes a push rod cooperating surface and defines a first socket hole that links the first socket surface with the socket passage;
iv) the second socket surface defines a second socket hole that links the second socket surface with the socket passage and is provided with a protruding surface, a first flat surface, and a second flat surface, wherein the protruding surface is located between the first flat surface and the second flat surface;
b) the leakdown plunger includes:
i) a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface enclosing an inner plunger surface;
ii) the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface defining a first plunger hole shaped to accommodate an insert;
iii) the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with the socket body and provided with a second annular plunger surface defining a second plunger hole;
iv) the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with a lash adjuster body to define a cavity between the lash adjuster body and the outer plunger surface;
v) the inner plunger surface includes a first inner cylindrical plunger surface and a second inner cylindrical plunger surface, wherein the second annular plunger surface is located between the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface
c) the lash adjuster body includes:
i) a lash adjuster opening and an outer lash adjuster surface enclosing a lash adjuster cavity; and
ii) the lash adjuster cavity includes an inner lash adjuster surface that is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface, an annular lash adjuster surface, and a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface, wherein the annular lash adjuster surface abuts the first and second cylindrical lash adjuster surfaces.
2. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the second annular plunger surface is located adjacent to the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface.
3. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the second annular plunger surface abuts the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface.
4. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, and a fourth angled surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall and the third wall faces the fourth wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall and the fourth wall;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall and the third wall;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the third wall;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the fourth wall; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
5. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the fourth wall and the second wall faces the third wall;
d) the first curved surface is located adjacent to the fourth wall and the second curved surface is located adjacent to the third wall; and
e) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
6. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the fourth wall and the second wall faces the third wall;
d) the first curved surface is located adjacent to the first wall and the fourth wall and the second curved surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the third wall; and
e) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
7. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, a fourth angled surface, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall and the third wall faces the fourth wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall, the fourth wall, and the first curved surface;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall, the third wall, and the second curved surface;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the third wall, and the second curved surface;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the fourth wall, and the first curved surface; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
8. The assembly according to claim 1 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled wall, a second angled wall, a third angled wall, a fourth angled wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, a fourth angled surface, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall, the third wall faces the fourth wall, the first angled wall faces the second angled wall, and the third angled wall faces the fourth angled wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall, the fourth wall, the first angled wall, and the first curved surface;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall, the third wall, the fourth angled wall, and the second curved surface;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the third wall, second angled wall, and the second curved surface;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the fourth wall, the third angled wall, and the first curved surface; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
9. The assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the protruding surface abuts the first flat surface and the second flat surface.
10. An assembly, comprising:
a) a socket body including a forgeable material and provided with:
i) an outer socket surface, a first socket surface, a second socket surface, and a socket passage;
ii) the outer socket surface is configured to cooperate with a second inner lifter surface of a valve lifter body;
iii) the first socket surface includes a push rod cooperating surface and defines a first socket hole that links the first socket surface with the socket passage;
iv) the second socket surface defines a second socket hole that links the second socket surface with the socket passage and is provided with a protruding surface and at least one flat surface located adjacent to the protruding surface;
b) the leakdown plunger includes:
i) a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface enclosing an inner plunger surface;
ii) the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface defining a first plunger hole shaped to accommodate an insert;
iii) the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with the socket body and provided with a second annular plunger surface defining a second plunger hole;
iv) the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with a lash adjuster body to define a cavity between the lash adjuster body and the outer plunger surface;
v) the inner plunger surface includes a first inner cylindrical plunger surface and a second inner cylindrical plunger surface, wherein the second annular plunger surface is located between the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface
c) the lash adjuster body includes:
i) a lash adjuster opening and an outer lash adjuster surface enclosing a lash adjuster cavity; and
ii) the lash adjuster cavity includes an inner lash adjuster surface that is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface, an annular lash adjuster surface, and a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface, wherein the annular lash adjuster surface abuts the first and second cylindrical lash adjuster surfaces.
11. The assembly according to claim 10 , wherein the second annular plunger surface is located adjacent to the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface.
12. The assembly according to claim 10 , wherein the second annular plunger surface abuts the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface.
13. The assembly according to claim 10 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, and a fourth angled surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall and the third wall faces the fourth wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall and the fourth wall;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall and the third wall;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the third wall;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the fourth wall; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
14. The assembly according to claim 10 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the fourth wall and the second wall faces the third wall;
d) the first curved surface is located adjacent to the fourth wall and the second curved surface is located adjacent to the third wall; and
e) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
15. The assembly according to claim 10 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the fourth wall and the second wall faces the third wall;
d) the first curved surface is located adjacent to the first wall and the fourth wall and the second curved surface is located adjacent to the second wall and the third wall ;and
e) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
16. The assembly according to claim 10 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, a fourth angled surface, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall and the third wall faces the fourth wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall, the fourth wall, and the first curved surface;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall, the third wall, and the second curved surface;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the third wall, and the second curved surface;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the fourth wall, and the first curved surface; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
17. The assembly according to claim 10 , further comprising a valve lifter body including:
a) an outer lifter surface that encloses a first lifter cavity and a second lifter cavity;
b) the first lifter cavity includes a first lifter opening shaped to accept a roller and a first inner lifter surface that is provided with a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, a fourth wall, a first angled wall, a second angled wall, a third angled wall, a fourth angled wall, a first angled surface, a second angled surface, a third angled surface, a fourth angled surface, a first curved surface, and a second curved surface;
c) the walls extend axially into the body from the first opening and are positioned so that the first wall faces the second wall, the third wall faces the fourth wall, the first angled wall faces the second angled wall, and the third angled wall faces the fourth angled wall;
d) the first angled surface is located adjacent to the first wall, the fourth wall, the first angled wall, and the first curved surface;
e) the second angled surface is located adjacent to first wall, the third wall, the fourth angled wall, and the second curved surface;
f) the third angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the third wall, second angled wall, and the second curved surface;
g) the fourth angled surface is located adjacent to the second wall, the fourth wall, the third angled wall, and the first curved surface; and
h) the second lifter cavity includes the second inner lifter surface and a second lifter opening, wherein the second inner lifter surface is provided with a plurality of cylindrical surfaces and configured to accommodate the lash adjuster body, the socket body, and the leakdown plunger.
18. An assembly, comprising:
a) a socket body provided with:
i) an outer socket surface, a first socket surface, a second socket surface, and a socket passage;
ii) the outer socket surface is configured to cooperate with a second inner lifter surface of a valve lifter body;
iii) the first socket surface includes a push rod cooperating surface and defines a first socket hole that links the first socket surface with the socket passage;
iv) the second socket surface defines a second socket hole that links the second socket surface with the socket passage and is provided with a protruding surface and at least one flat surface located adjacent to the protruding surface;
b) the leakdown plunger includes:
i) a first plunger opening, a second plunger opening, and an outer plunger surface enclosing an inner plunger surface;
ii) the first plunger opening is provided with a first annular plunger surface defining a first plunger hole shaped to accommodate an insert;
iii) the second plunger opening is configured to cooperate with the socket body and provided with a second annular plunger surface defining a second plunger hole;
iv) the outer plunger surface includes a cylindrical plunger surface and cooperates with a lash adjuster body to define a cavity between the lash adjuster body and the outer plunger surface;
v) the inner plunger surface includes a first inner cylindrical plunger surface and a second inner cylindrical plunger surface, wherein the second annular plunger surface is located between the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface
c) the lash adjuster body includes:
i) a lash adjuster opening and an outer lash adjuster surface enclosing a lash adjuster cavity;
ii) the lash adjuster cavity includes an inner lash adjuster surface that is provided with a first cylindrical lash adjuster surface, an annular lash adjuster surface, and a second cylindrical lash adjuster surface, wherein the annular lash adjuster surface abuts the first and second cylindrical lash adjuster surfaces; and
d) at least a portion of the assembly is fabricated through cold forming.
19. The assembly of claim 18 wherein the second socket surface is provided with the protruding surface, a first flat surface, and a second flat surface, wherein the protruding surface is located between the first flat surface and the second flat surface.
20. The assembly according to claim 18 , wherein the second annular plunger surface is located adjacent to the first inner cylindrical plunger surface and the second inner cylindrical plunger surface.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/762,724 US20070234989A1 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2007-06-13 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/274,519 US6871622B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2002-10-18 | Leakdown plunger |
US10/992,531 US6964251B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2004-11-18 | Leakdown plunger |
US11/119,450 US7013857B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2005-04-29 | Leakdown plunger |
US11/200,287 US7069891B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2005-08-09 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
US11/361,273 US7293540B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2006-02-23 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
US11/762,724 US20070234989A1 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2007-06-13 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/361,273 Continuation US7293540B2 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2006-02-23 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070234989A1 true US20070234989A1 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
Family
ID=38573805
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/762,724 Abandoned US20070234989A1 (en) | 2002-10-18 | 2007-06-13 | Valve operating assembly and method of manufacturing |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20070234989A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120234067A1 (en) * | 2008-09-23 | 2012-09-20 | Eaton Corporation | Ball plunger for use in a hydraulic lash adjuster and method of making same |
-
2007
- 2007-06-13 US US11/762,724 patent/US20070234989A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120234067A1 (en) * | 2008-09-23 | 2012-09-20 | Eaton Corporation | Ball plunger for use in a hydraulic lash adjuster and method of making same |
US9388714B2 (en) * | 2008-09-23 | 2016-07-12 | Eaton Corporation | Ball plunger for use in a hydraulic lash adjuster and method of making same |
US10253659B2 (en) | 2008-09-23 | 2019-04-09 | Eaton Corporation | Ball plunger for use in a hydraulic lash adjuster and method of making same |
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Legal Events
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Free format text: EXPRESSLY ABANDONED -- DURING EXAMINATION |