Patent ID: 6591797
Filing Date: 2003-07-15
Classification: F01L

Abstract:
Rocker arm apparatus for use in combination with a push rod and valve stem in an internal combustion engine, said rocker arm apparatus comprising, in combination:a rocker arm having a first end portion for engaging a push rod, a second end portion for engaging a valve stem, and a toothed rack extending intermediate the first end portion and the second end portion; a fulcrum rod having a toothed sector and a smooth bearing portion, said toothed sector being disposed in mating engagement with the toothed rack thereby defining a plurality of pivot points providing different pivot ratios, respectively, as the fulcrum rod pivots and moves along the toothed rack, and the rocker arm being spaced from the smooth bearing portion thereby allowing the rocker arm to oscillate freely without contacting the smooth bearing portion; a stationary shaft support member having a bearing surface disposed for sliding contact engagement against the fulcrum rod bearing portion, said bearing surface opposing movement of the fulcrum rod out of mating engagement with the toothed rack while allowing pivoting movement of the fulcrum rod along the toothed rack; and an operating arm coupled to the fulcrum rod for moving the fulcrum rod along the toothed rack from one pivot point to another.