Mechanical Spring ReplacementWith Pneumatic Return Device ina Valve Train: Effects onDynamics and Preload Tuning

The paper presents a comparison of performance for a cam transmission of an engine valve train operating with a mechanical spring and with a return spring device that uses a pneumatic spring. Dynamic analysis of the cam mechanism is performed in the frequency and time domains employing a combined lumped-distributed parameter model capable of predicting the effects of the higher harmonics of the cam lift profile on system performance, in particular of the return spring device. Dynamic stiffness of the transmission in the frequency domain and time history of the contact force between cam and follower are evaluated. The limits of the traditional mechanical spring-closing system at high-speed camshaft operations are investigated, highlighting that they are mainly imposed by the internal resonances of the spring. The pneumatic spring is an improved replacement of the steel spring, because of better dynamic behavior. Furthermore, the pneumatic return device allows preload tuning of the spring, which may increase transmission efficiency through proper control of the fluid pressure. Study of the pressure control circuit is also presented.