Search Results

A relatively simple, low-friction Variable-Valve-Actuation (VVA) device is presented. The device can be characterized as a four-bar mechanism consisting of a crank, a rocker and a coupler, all supported on a carrier body. Description of the prototype hardware, and the results of the friction measurements are presented in an accompanying paper [1]. In the present paper, a kinematic analysis/synthesis and a rigid-body dynamic analysis are outlined. Also included is a flexible-body model where the coupler link, which was suspected to be the most severely stressed member, is modeled as a flexible component. A sensitivity-uncertainty analysis employing the Fourier-Amplitude-Sensitivity-Test (FAST) method is conducted to identify the dominant design parameters, and to predict the variations in mechanism's performance due to the uncertainties in the design parameters.