Application of modern design techniques to aluminum die－ cast rocker arm with a ceramic insert for internal combustion engines

： As a combination of two materials with different properties, the aluminum die－ cast rocker arm with a ceramic insert for internal combustion engines is a kind of technical improved product. Based on modern design techniques, this paper put forward the developing mode of it. Then, by applying the reverse engineering principles, CAD techniques, and FEA techniques, its structure was optimally designed to ensure that it is provided with the same rigidity as the original forged steel rocker arm. After preliminary trial－ production, the mechanical properties of it were contrasted with those of the forged steel one by test. The results not only showed that the rigidity and strength of the aluminum rocker arm had already achieved the desired goal, but also provided basis for the following structural design improvement of it as well.