A bevel drive shaft typically refers to a shaft equipped with bevel gears at one or both ends. These gears are used to transmit rotational power at an angle, typically 90 degrees, between the shaft and another component. Here’s how it relates to driving an overhead camshaft:
Functionality: In an engine, especially in overhead camshaft (OHC) designs, the camshaft is often positioned above the cylinder head. A bevel drive shaft with a bevel gear at one end allows the transmission of rotational power from the engine’s crankshaft (which is usually located lower in the engine block) to the overhead camshaft.
Transmission Angle: The bevel gears on the shaft enable the change in direction of rotation by 90 degrees, aligning the rotational axis of the crankshaft with that of the camshaft.
Application: This configuration is commonly used in engines where space constraints or design considerations require the camshaft to be positioned overhead, such as in many modern automobile engines for efficient valve timing and engine performance.
Overall, the bevel drive shaft is essential for achieving the necessary mechanical linkage between the engine’s lower components and the camshaft located higher in the engine, facilitating proper timing and operation of the engine’s valves.
