Engine Valvetrain Design Series

Explore the fundamentals of Internal Combustion engine valvetrain systems and their critical role in controlling air systems for power and efficiency. Through detailed modules covering variable valvetrain systems, camshaft design, and failure analysis, participants will gain practical expertise to improve engine performance and compliance. Collaborative workshops and industry-driven discussions further enhance learning, providing a strong foundation for advanced engineering projects.

Learning Outcomes:

Understand key components and design principles of valvetrain systems for optimizing engine performance and emissions.
Learn advanced techniques in camshaft, cam drive, and valvetrain modeling, including variable valvetrain systems and failure analysis.
Apply modern materials, manufacturing processes, and analytical methods to engineer high-performing and reliable engine systems.

Who Should Attend:

Engineers involved in engine performance, combustion, air handling, and emission control development for diesel or spark-ignition engines.
Engineering managers overseeing engine design, mechanical development, and valvetrain optimization projects.
Controls and vehicle application engineers seeking deeper knowledge of air handling systems and aftertreatment processes in engines.

Course Details: RA01040-D860

Course Outline

Module A1: Overview of IC Engines Relative to Valvetrains
Module A2: Valvetrain Performance and Sub-System Breakdown
Module A3: Overview and Keys to Valvetrain Modeling
Module A4: Camshafts, Cam Lobes, and Followers
Module A5: Roundtable Review of Valvetrain Hardware and Designs

Engine Valve Motion Control

Module B1: Valvetrain Linkages and Rocker Arms
Module B2: Variable Valvetrain Systems – Cam Timing, De-activation, and Engine Braking Systems
Module B3: Variable Valvetrain Systems – Profile Switching, Combined Systems, Fully Variable, Passenger Car VVA Options, and Camless
Module B4: Roundtable Review of Valvetrain Hardware and Designs

Valvetrain Component Design Considerations

Module C1: Cam Drive Systems
Module C2: Valve and Spring System
Module C3: Lash Compensating Devices
Module C4: Valvetrain Support Structure and Analysis Methods
Module C5: Roundtable Review of Valvetrain Hardware and Designs

Valvetrain Lubrication, Failures, and Validation

Module D1: Valvetrain Failure Modes
Module D: Lubrication and Tribology
Module D3: Valvetrain Testing and Validation
Module D4: Valvetrain Kinematic and Dynamic Modeling
Module D5: Roundtable Review of Valvetrain Hardware and Designs

Valvetrain System Design and Modeling

Module E1: Fundamentals of Cam Profile Design
Module E2: The Acceleration Curve
Module E3: Cam Profile Design Workshop
Module E4: Roundtable Review of Valvetrain Hardware and Designs

Course Schedule

Instructors and Program Director

Instructors
Bruce Dennert
Adjunct Assistant Professor
R. Bruce Dennert is the president and principal engineer of CamCom, Inc., as well as an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He previously worked at Harley-Davidson Motor Company for 34 years, holding several powertrain engineering positions. His experience includes working with many engine mechanical systems and many types of valve trains. Dennert holds a bachelor's degree in physics from Carroll College, a master's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, and a master of engineering in professional practice from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Jim McCarthy
Chief Engineer
Jim McCarthy is Chief Engineer for Vehicle Technologies and Innovation at Eaton. His previous roles were Engineering Manager for Advanced Valvetrain Actuation for North American and Asian markets located in Marshall, MI and Engineering Manager for Exhaust Aftertreatment Solutions located in Southfield, MI. Prior to joining Eaton, Jim worked on diesel engine technologies at Detroit Diesel.
Jim has focused his engineering career on product innovation and growth to develop and integrate serial production solutions for engine technologies while optimizing power generation to conserve fossil fuels and reduce emissions.
McCarthy received his Ph.D., Masters of Science and Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University.
Program Director
Blake Suhre

Additional Information

This course can be taken online anytime and offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to complete it online at your own pace. Designed to mirror the in-person version, it includes additional learning quizzes for an enhanced educational experience. The course consists of five individual modules from the Engine Valvetrain Design Series, and participants will receive a comprehensive course notebook shipped upon registration. Please refer to the course outline for detailed information.

Note: Students outside the USA are responsible for covering the shipping cost of the course material binder.

Total Credits:

CEU 2.1,

PDH 21,

Course Administration

Fee Information

Fee covers course materials and online instruction.

Payment Options

If you are planning to attend an Interdisciplinary Professional Programs course, payment is required at the time of registration. Below are the payment options:

Pay by Credit Card

Enroll online and pay by credit card.

Search for the course on the website and then click on the Enroll Now button from the course webpage.
Enter all necessary course attendee information and payment information on the course enrollment page.
You will receive an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Enroll over the phone and pay by credit card.

Call CERC Registrations at 608-262-2451.
Provide the registrations representative with:
- the course name, dates, and/or course number.
- the necessary course attendee information and payment information.
You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment payment.

Pay by Check

Mail in a completed registration form and check payable to UW Madison.

Fill out a registration form (found either in the back of the course brochure you received in the mail or here).
Prepare a check, made payable to UW Madison.
Mail the registration form and check to: CERC Registrations 21 N Park St, Ste 7101 Madison, WI 53715
You will receive either a mailed document or an email to confirm successful enrollment and payment.

Pay by Purchase Order

Request Purchase Order information from registration@cerc.wisc.edu
- If a fee quote is needed, contact custserv@interpro.wisc.edu first
You will receive an invoice from UW–Madison Business Services for payment, usually within 3–5 business days

Military

If using SF-182 form, please call our registration number at 608-262-2451 or email registration@cerc.wisc.edu for details and instructions.

Event Cancellation

We reserve the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or unforeseen events. If we cancel a course, participants will be notified via email or phone and will be given the option for a full refund or to transfer their registration and any fees paid to another course. We are not responsible for non-refundable plane tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel related expenses. For enrollee Course Cancellation, refer to notes on course page.

Cancellation Policy

Once you have accessed the online course, no cancellations or refunds are permitted.

Engine Valvetrain Design Series

Learning Outcomes:

Who Should Attend:

Stay Connected

Course Details: RA01040-D860

Course Outline

Engine Valve Motion Control

Valvetrain Component Design Considerations

Valvetrain Lubrication, Failures, and Validation

Valvetrain System Design and Modeling

Course Schedule

Instructors and Program Director

Additional Information

Course Administration

Fee Information

Payment Options

Pay by Credit Card

Enroll online and pay by credit card.

Enroll over the phone and pay by credit card.

Pay by Check

Mail in a completed registration form and check payable to UW Madison.

Pay by Purchase Order

Military

Event Cancellation

Cancellation Policy

Related Courses

Future Combustion Fuels for Mobility

Controls for Aftertreatment Devices

Engine Exhaust Aftertreatment Aging

Engine Heat Transfer

Fundamentals of IC Engine Performance and Thermodynamics

Past Courses

Engine Valvetrain Design Series

Engine Valvetrain Design Series