Patent ID: 7146951
Filing Date: 2006-12-12
Classification: F01L

Abstract:
1. A switchable cam follower or a switchable supporting element for a valve timing mechanism of an internal combustion engine, comprising a first inner unit and a second outer unit which are movable telescopingly relative to one another, the units passing by each other during telescoping motion at a dividing face; a coupling device operable to selectively connect the units to one another to block telescoping motion and to disconnect the units to permit their telescoping movement; the coupling device connects the units by engaging over the dividing face between the units, in such a way that there is a large valve stroke, while enabling generation of no valve stroke or of a small valve stroke if the coupling device does not engage the units; at least one spring which can be loaded compressively or torsionally and operable as a lost motion spring between the telescopable units; and a compression limiting device in the cam follower or supporting element for limiting compression of the lost motion spring such that a blocked position of the lost motion spring is impeded, the compression limiting device being located in one of a group of locations consisting of: