Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention comprises a polymer matrix pushrod comprising a composite rod having an annular collar affixed over each end portion of the composite rod and an endcap affixed at each end. The composite rod comprises a thermosetting polymer matrix and reinforcing fibers within the polymer matrix.

Abstract: An adjustable length composite push rod constructed of a composite bar having two specially shaped ends to which metal end fittings bond via mating surfaces provided thereon for evenly distributing mechanical stress from the metal end fittings to the composite bar. The bar is constructed of a plurality of layers of sheets of thermosetting, epoxy impregnated, longitudinally oriented fiber material that form the inner portion of the push bar and a single outside sheet of thermosetting, epoxy impregnated, woven fiber material forms the outside portion of the bar.

Abstract: In a valve system for a OHV horizontally-opposed, four-cycle internal combustion engine, valve camshafts are provided at crankcase portions for supporting a crankshaft, of left and right cylinder banks disposed on opposite sides of the crankshaft. Intake and exhaust valves are provided at cylinder heads and are opened and closed by pull rods operated by the valve camshafts. The aforementioned valve system achieves large reductions in the size and weight of the piston heads where the intake and exhaust valves of the internal combustion engine are disposed.

Abstract: A push rod (1), more specifically for use in a valve actuation device of an internal combustion engine, which is substantially hollow and is provided with a portion (5) of a maximum cross section dimension arranged preferably in the middle between the ends (1a, 1b) of the push rod (1). In order to provide, in the easiest possible way, a light weight push rod (1) with high buckling resistance, the push rod (1) consists of a first and of a second, substantially hollow rod piece (2, 3), the rod pieces (2, 3) having a maximum cross section dimension in the region of one open front face (2b, 3b) thereof and being rigidly joined together at their open front faces (2b, 3b).

Abstract: An engine valve assembly includes an engine valve (12) connected to an electric motor (30.) The electric motor may be a linear electric motor (34) which includes “rare earth” magnets to infinitely move the engine valve (12) between an open and closed position. Usage of “rare earth” magnets assures that the linear electric motor (34) generates enough force to properly and timely operate the engine valve (12.) The electric motor (30) may alternatively drive a threaded portion (42) of the valve stem (18.) Operation of the electric motor (30) threads the threaded valve stem (18) relative to a threaded support (40) to drive the engine valve (12′) between an open and a closed position.

Abstract: To provide a valve system for an engine, in which a valve stem for an engine valve is slidably fitted in a guide cylinder provided in a cylinder head. A rocker arm is interlocked to rock with rotation of a camshaft. The rocker arm is also interlocked with the valve stem. With the above construction, local wear, galling, and the like in the guide cylinder can be prevented. Accordingly, the reliability can be improved. A lifter is interposed between a rocker arm and a valve stem. The lifter is formed into a cylindrical shape with a closed bottom and has a diameter larger than an outside diameter of the valve stem. The lifter is fitted in a lifter housing in such a manner as to be slidable in the axial direction of the valve stem. The lifter housing is fixed to a cylinder head.

Abstract: In a valve system for a OHV horizontally-opposed, four-cycle internal combustion engine, valve camshafts are provided at crankcase portions for supporting a crankshaft, of left and right cylinder banks disposed on opposite sides of the crankshaft. Intake and exhaust valves are provided at cylinder heads and are opened and closed by pull rods operated by the valve camshafts. The aforementioned valve system achieves large reductions in the size and weight of the piston heads where the intake and exhaust valves of the internal combustion engine are disposed.