Valve lifter
Reference Number: N 01-02
Inventors: Rao, V. Durga N.; Schafer, Gregory E.; Natkin, Robert J.
Owner: NISTAC
USPTO Link:5239951
Invention Summary
Accordingly, the present invention is a unique valve lifter for use in a valve train
of an engine such as an internal combustion engine. In general, the valve lifter includes
a lightweight valve lifter body having a cradle formed on one end thereof for receiving
and supporting a roller therein. In addition, the peripheral surfaces of the valve
lifter body may be impregnated with a solid film lubricant to reduce the friction
between the valve lifter body and the valve lifter guide.
One advantage of the present invention is that the valve lifter is lightweight thus
reducing the reciprocating mass and corresponding frictional forces generated by the
valve spring. A further advantage of the present invention is that the reduced mass
of the valve lifter permits higher engine operating speeds, and the reduced friction
between the peripheral surfaces of the valve lifter and valve lifter guide results
in reduced fuel consumption and oil consumption.