Patent ID: 7278386
Filing Date: 2007-10-09
Classification: F01L

Abstract:
1. A valve timing controller for an internal combustion engine, the valve timing controller adjusting at least one of an intake valve and an exhaust valve that a camshaft opens or closes by torque transmitted thereto from a crankshaft, the valve timing controller comprising: a first rotary body which rotates in synchronization with one of the crankshaft and the camshaft and into which lubricating fluid is supplied; a second rotary body which rotates in synchronization with other of the crankshaft and the camshaft; a torque producing unit for producing control torque; and a phase change unit including a planetary gear mechanism in which a planetary gear is engaged with a sun gear in such a way as to be able to perform a planetary motion and changing a relative rotational phase between the first rotary body and the second rotary body by utilizing the control torque transmitted from the torque producing unit to the planetary gear mechanism, wherein the phase change unit includes space forming means for forming a space at an interface where the first rotary body is brought into sliding contact with the planetary gear in the first rotary body wherein the space forming means is a protrusion formed on the planetary gear in such a way that its tip surface is brought into sliding contact with the first rotary body and forms the space on its outer peripheral side.