Patent ID: 8944020
Filing Date: 2015-02-03
Classification: F01L

Abstract:
1. An internal combustion engine comprising: an engine housing including a cylinder block defining a cylinder and a lifter bore, and having a wall portion adjacent the lifter bore; a valve lifter assembly positioned at least partially within the lifter bore, and being configured to actuate a pushrod coupled with a rocker arm for a gas exchange valve of the internal combustion engine, the valve lifter assembly including a valve lifter, and an angular displacement-limiting clip coupled with the valve lifter; the valve lifter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lifter roller positioned within the distal end and configured to contact a cam of the internal combustion engine, the valve lifter further having a cutout formed on the proximal end and having sidewalls defining a channel and a taper, and the valve lifter being rotatable out of alignment with the cam during service in the internal combustion engine; the angular displacement-limiting clip having a holder engaged with the valve lifter, and a hanger coupling the valve lifter assembly with the wall portion, the hanger being mated with the channel such that the clip is rotationally coupled to the valve lifter and limits angular displacement of the valve lifter assembly at a stop position defined by contact between the hanger and the wall portion; the clip further including an anti-scuffing outer profile facing the lifter bore and having a first and a second arcuate segment upon the holder, and a linear segment extending between the arcuate segments, so as to inhibit interference between the clip and the lifter bore during rotation of the valve lifter assembly within the lifter bore; and the clip further including a first and a second stress diffusing fillet transitioning from the holder to the hanger, and being positioned within the cutout such that a clearance exists between portions of the sidewalls forming the taper and each of the first and second fillets, for inhibiting impingement of the sidewalls upon the fillets at the stop position.