Abstract: An electrically controlled hydraulic actuated fuel injector wherein the amount of return fuel flow is substantially reduced without adversely affecting injection valve operation. An improved control valve armature valve disk of faster acting construction is also included. In one embodiment, dual pressurizing passages of differing diameters provide lower total fuel flow to a control chamber than the outflow through a depressurizing passage controlled by a control valve. Upon full opening of the injection valve, all return fuel flow is supplied to the control chamber through the smaller pressurizing passage, thereby reducing the requirement for pressure fuel flow. Upon closing of the control valve, cutting off discharge through the depressurizing passage, both of the dual pressurizing passages help fill the control chamber to quickly close the injection valve.

Abstract: A valve actuator for an engine includes a pivot socket having a dome with an improved lubrication passage. The actuator may be a finger follower with a body having spaced side walls connected adjacent opposite ends by first and second transverse webs. A cam follower, preferably a roller, having a cam engaging surface is supported on the side walls between the opposite ends of the body. The first web is engagable with a valve while the second web has a pivot socket with a dome having a generally spherical lower recess for engaging a pivot and a domed upper surface adjacent to the follower cam engaging surface. A lubrication passage extends through the dome from the lower recess to the upper surface. The passage includes an inverted inner channel formed in the recess and having upwardly converging sides meeting at a peak, and a connecting outer channel formed in the domed upper surface and having downwardly converging sides meeting at a valley.

Abstract: A direct injection fuel injector and method of operation wherein high fuel pressure exerting an opening force on an injection valve is slightly overbalanced by a return spring tending to close the valve. A first solenoid acts to open the valve against the excess return spring force and a second solenoid acts to close the valve when the first solenoid is de-energized. Rapid valve closing is provided by energizing the second solenoid before de-energizing the first solenoid, the force of the second solenoid when the valve is open being insufficient to overcome the force of the first solenoid holding the valve open. Thus, the second solenoid magnetic force is fully developed and quickly closes the injection valve when the first solenoid is de-energized. Various additional features are disclosed.

Abstract: A gas valve has a solenoid actuator which is energized to open the valve an de-energized to permit spring closure of the valve. A seal element is secured on the armature of the solenoid armature. The seal element has a skirt portion which sealingly engages an armature sleeve to inhibit exhaust gas vapors from entering the chamber housing the solenoid coil and electronic sensing elements. The solenoid actuator has a pole piece defining one end of the chamber. A plurality of vent slots formed in the pole piece provide communication to atmosphere for the chamber to permit removal of any inadvertent intrusion by moisture or vapor.