Abstract: A control system for a cam phaser can include a cam phaser coupled to a cam shaft, the cam phaser to adjust a position of the cam shaft, an actuator in mechanical communication with the cam phaser, and a controller in electrical communication with the actuator, the controller including a processor and a memory. In one example, the processor is configured to calculate a first hysteresis position of the actuator with respect to a hysteresis band, determine if the actuator is within a first threshold distance of a first edge of the hysteresis band, and if the actuator is not within the first threshold distance of the first edge of the hysteresis band, command the actuator to displace across the hysteresis band.

Abstract: Systems and method for a cam phaser are provided. In some configurations, the cam phaser includes a drive member having a first mating surface, a driven member having a second mating surface, and a locking mechanism arranged between the first mating surface and the second mating surface. The locking mechanism is operable to contact the first mating surface and the second mating surface, in response to an outside force applied to the driven member that loads the locking mechanism. The cam phaser further includes an engaging member. The engaging member is configured to selectively actuate the locking mechanism to enable rotation of the driven member relative to the drive member. The cam phaser may include a reaction mechanism configured to receive additional force from an input mechanism and selectively transmit the additional force to the driven member to unload the locking mechanism.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides systems and methods to compensate for backlash within a cam phasing system. For example, compensating for backlash by commanding a predetermined amount of additional actuator movement to account for backlash within a cam phaser. According to some aspects, a spring is provided within a cam phaser to unidirectionally take up the backlash within the cam phasing system.

Abstract: The systems and methods described herein provide an approach for cam phase angle control where an axial or rotational position of an actuator of a cam phaser has a direct relationship to the phase angle of the cam shaft, allowing for accurate cam phasing without the need for cam shaft or crank shaft position sensors. Providing phase angle adjustability without the need for crank shaft or cam shaft position sensors enables control of phase angle solely by sensing the axial or rotational position of the actuator of the cam phaser.