The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Jun. 23, 1998
Filed:
May. 08, 1997
James A Nitkiewicz, Newport News, VA (US);
Siemens Automotive Corporation, Auburn Hills, MI (US);
Abstract
A method of and apparatus for detecting engine valve motion are provided in an internal combustion engine having an electromechanical or electromagnetic valve actuator with a ferrous component that moves in a linear path with the reciprocating motion of an engine valve between its open and closed positions. The apparatus includes a stationary magnetic field source mounted in the actuator and having an axis aligned with the linear path and positioned such that, at its closest position of travel, the ferrous component alters the magnetic field flux of the magnetic field source. A sensor mounted in the longitudinal path between the stationary magnetic field source and the ferrous component and sufficiently spaced from the magnetic field source responds to an amplified change in magnetic field flux at its closest travel position, sensing the change in the magnetic field flux of the stationary magnetic field source caused by the presence and absence of the ferrous component in the closest travel position as an indicator of engine valve motion.