Methods and apparatus for providing variable valve lift for camshaft-actuated valves

Abstract

Apparatus suitable for use in reciprocally opening and closing a camshaft-actuated valve may include a rotating camshaft () having first and second cams () respectively defining first and second amounts of valve opening distance. A cam follower () may be defined on a mounting pin () so as to operatively engage the first and second cams in an alternating manner. At a first rotational position of the cam follower relative to the camshaft, the cam follower operatively engages the first cam and generates the first amount of valve opening distance. At a second rotational position, the cam follower operatively engages the second cam and generates the second amount of valve opening distance. A valve lever () transmits the respective generated first and second amounts of valve opening distance to the valve. A locking device () releasably locks the mounting pin and cam follower in the respective first and second rotational positions.