Charge changing control device, reciprocating engine and method for operating a charge changing control device

A charge changing control device 10 for a reciprocating engine, comprising at least one cam follower 26 configured for being pivotably actuated around a pivot axis (P) upon rotational movement of a camshaft 12, and an adjustment unit 36 configured for setting at least three different charge-changing modes of the device 10 by translationally displacing the pivot axis (P) relative to a rotational axis (R) of the camshaft 12. Preferably the device 10 is configured for setting the different charge-changing modes based on at least one of an engine's operating condition and a property of fuel to be combusted in the engine; and the device is configured to switch the charge-changing mode when a knocking characteristic, in particular a knocking intensity, or an exhaust gas temperature has reached a predefined threshold value. Also claimed is a method for operating a charge changing control device.