Development of an Automated Cam Profile Designer and Optimizer

Valve lift is of major importance when considering engine performance, valvetrain durability and NVH. Automating valve lift design and optimization is challenging since there are numerous variables that define the profile and many kinematic and dynamic objectives have to be considered. The kinematic and dynamic objectives for engine performance, valvetrain durability and NVH are conflicting which complicates the automation of the process even more. For example, engine performance requires the valve to open and close in a short period of time which means high valve velocity and acceleration, where as valvetrain durability and NVH require lowering valve seating velocity and acceleration for better dynamic control and reduced impact noise.

In this study, a tool has been developed to design and optimize valve lift profile without a starting point and based on kinematic and dynamic design constraints.