Patents by Inventor Ray C. Hartzell

Ray C. Hartzell has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20090178638
    Abstract: The invention allows for a larger bronze axle outer diameter for increased contact area to carry system loads in tappet body assemblies of engine valve trains; thereby, improving wear and improving the life of the tappet. Relatively small diameter steel pins are used to secure the bronze axle and because the pins are within the bronze axle they do not need to be specifically processed for stress contact or retention. The bronze axle requires the cam roller follower inside diameter to increase as well to reduce the cross section of the cam roller follower. This thinner cross section improves the rotational inertia reducing the risk of skidding at the cam-to-roller interface. Skidding at this interface significantly reduces the life of the cam roller follower and/or the cam lobe. The smaller pin diameter provides addition clearance when packaged next to an adjacent cam lobe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Ray C. Hartzell, Louis J. Beregszazi, Scott P. Smith, Scott P. Smith