Method and device for the lubrication of an internal combustion engine

Method for lubricating a running surface of a cylinder wall of a cylinder of a lifting piston engine comprises controlling a lubricant nozzle using a control device containing a regulating unit in such a way that a condition parameter of the lubricant film is optimized on the running surface of the cylinder wall. An independent claim is also included for a device for carrying out the above method. Preferred Features: The condition parameter is the thickness of the lubricant film. A sensor is arranged in the piston, in the piston ring, in the cylinder wall, in the cylinder cover and/or in the component lying next to the cylinder.