A cam phaser is disclosed for adjusting the angular position of a camshaft
relative to a crankshaft. In a first embodiment, a rotatable camshaft has
an interior passageway and at least one cam operative to effect actuation
of an engine valve. A first drive member is connectable to the crankshaft
for rotational movement therewith. The first drive member is
independently rotatably associated with the camshaft. A piston member is
axially moveably disposed within the camshaft interior passageway and
associated with the camshaft for rotation therewith. The piston member is
further associated with the first drive member for rotation therewith and
axial movement relative thereto. Axial movement of the piston member
effects a change in the angular position of the first drive member. In a
second embodiment, a rotatable tubular member has an interior passageway.
A first drive member connectable to one or the other of a crankshaft or
camshaft for rotational movement therewith is independently rotatably
associated with the tubular member. A second drive member connectable to
the other of a camshaft or crankshaft for rotational movement therewith
is rotatably fixed relative to the tubular member. The first drive member
is independently angularly positionable relative to the second drive
member. A piston member is axially moveably disposed within the tubular
member interior passageway and associated with the tubular member for
rotation therewith. The piston member is further associated with the
first drive member for rotation therewith and axial movement relative
thereto. Axial movement of the piston member effects a change in the
angular position of the first drive member relative to the second drive
member.