Patent attributes
A multi-step valve actuation system is provided to selectively open a poppet valve of an internal combustion engine having a camshaft rotatably supported by a cylinder block. The multi-step valve actuation system includes a rocker arm operable to selectively open the poppet valve and a pushrod operable to bias the rocker arm. A first follower arm is engageable with a first cam of the camshaft and operates to selectively bias the pushrod. A lash adjuster is disposed between the first follower arm and the pushrod. A second follower arm is engageable with a second cam of the camshaft and selectively latchable with respect to the first follower arm, while a third follower arm is engageable with a third cam of the camshaft and selectively latchable with respect to the first follower arm. An internal combustion engine incorporating the multi-step valve actuation system of the present invention is also disclosed.
