A few years ago I remember in science and engineering magazines there was promising research in using cam-less valvetrains: computer controlled solenoids opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves.

What has come of this research?

Don't use dead dinos for fuel:
let 'em rest in peace!

Not much. About the only thing to come from it is variable valve timing. Joe.

They're still working on it. The automotive microprocessor folks (like Motorola) are actually pushing it pretty hard because it means they'll sell LOTS of fast expensive processors.

Eric

Well, I work at the largest valve supplier in the world, so I can say with confidence. Not a lot, but it's coming along. The problems are that you need a LOT of energy to open valves at that frequency, so you need a big solenoid at 12V, or a smaller solenoid at 42V. The current direction is towards 42V systems. There's a lot more development here in variable valve timing, and deactivation.

fly-by-wire valve gear. Sounds like a catastrophe waiting to happen.
I suppose that when the valve timing goes all to cock and the pistons meet the valves (as when a timing belt snaps ) then the manufactures will be able to quote Kim Stanley Robinson and say it was "something in the silicon"
regards
dva

I heard a while (year?) ago that BMW has an engine without a throtle butterfly plate. Uses variable valve timing exclusively to regulate intake volumes. Don't know if it was electric...?