Sealing device for a high-pressure valve, use, sealing element, actuating component and method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a sealing device (2) for a high-pressure valve (1). The sealing device (2) comprises an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5). The sealing element (4) can be moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part (3). In the sealed position, the operating part (3) presses the sealing element (4) axially against the sealing sheet (5). According to the present invention, in the open position, the sealing element (4) having a contact portion (4a) can be tilted relative to the operating part (3) around the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3). The present invention also relates to the use of the sealing device (2), the sealing element (4) and the operating part (3) for the sealing device (2), and a method of operating the sealing device (2).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sealing device for a high-pressure valve, an application of the sealing device, a sealing element and an operating part for the sealing device, and a method of operating the sealing device. The sealing device comprises an operating part, a sealing element, and a sealing sheet. The sealing element can be moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part. In the sealed position, the operating part presses the sealing element axially against the sealing sheet. Background Technology

[0002] Sealing devices for high-pressure valves are known from the prior art. High-pressure valves are used, for example, in piping or tank systems for hydrogen-containing fluids. In this regard, the sealing device must perform sealing for pressures ranging from at least 700 bar to 875 bar. For a high service life of the sealing device, it is important that force is transmitted between the sealing element and the operating part with minimal loss at the sealing position. If the sealing element is misaligned relative to the operating part and / or if the sealing element is improperly seated on the sealing seat, high force is required for sealing. This results in wear on the sealing element, which shortens the service life of the sealing device. In conventional sealing devices, this problem was addressed by a sealing element fixedly connected to the operating part. To this end, the sealing element and the operating part must adhere to strict manufacturing and joining tolerances. The problem to be solved

[0003] The objective of the present invention is to provide a sealing device with an improved lifespan, reduced manufacturing complexity, and reduced required closing force. Additionally, the objective of the present invention is to provide an application for such a sealing device, a sealing element for the sealing device, an operating component for the sealing device, and a method of operating the sealing device. means of solving the problem

[0004] According to the present invention, the above problem is solved by the feature of the feature portion of claim 1, that is, by allowing a sealing element having a contact portion to be tilted relative to the operating portion around the inclined portion of the operating portion in an open position.

[0005] The high-pressure valve may be a switching valve or a control valve. In particular, the high-pressure valve is designed for hydrogen applications, such as in piping or tank systems for hydrogen-containing fluids, for example. Preferably, the sealing device is provided to be able to seal at pressures up to at least 700 bar, preferably up to at least 800 bar, more preferably up to at least 875 bar and / or up to 1050 bar, particularly up to 900 bar, preferably up to 875 bar, preferably up to 750 bar, more preferably up to 700 bar. In particular, the high-pressure valve according to the present invention also enables reliable sealing at low pressures, particularly from at least 20 bar. According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, the high-pressure valve is provided to have a nominal operating pressure (NOP) of 700 bar and / or a maximum operating pressure (MAWP) of 875 bar and / or a maximum test pressure of 1050 bar, also known as the end-of-line (EOL) pressure. To this end, it is desirable to use the test procedure according to ISO 19887 (Gaseous hydrogen-fuel system components for hydrogen fuel vehicles).

[0006] In particular, the operating part is designed as a piston. According to an alternative embodiment, the operating part may be designed as a push pin or a push rod. It is advantageous for the operating part to have a rotationally symmetric cross-section in a planar view, particularly in an axial planar view.

[0007] The sealing element can preferably be placed only in an open position, a sealed position, and the path between these two positions. Preferably, the sealing element seals exactly one sealing sheet at the sealed position. In particular, the sealing element cannot be placed at two different sealing positions, for example, on different sealing sheets, and preferably cannot be tilted between two different sealing sheets.

[0008] In additional or alternative embodiments, the sealing element is designed to be rotationally symmetric in a planar view, preferably in an axial planar view. Preferably, the sealing element is designed to be substantially cylindrical. For example, the sealing element may have a shell designed to be cylindrical, particularly a straight cylinder. Alternatively, the sealing element may be designed in the form of a spherical segment, in particular, this spherical segment is larger than a hemisphere. Preferably, the sealing element is designed as a single piece. According to an advantageous embodiment, the sealing element is mounted to an operating part via a fixed part, in particular, detachably connected. In particular, the fixed part has a thread, and the operating part has a corresponding thread. Preferably, the fixed part is designed as a clamping nut. According to an advantageous embodiment, the fixed part has a fixed receiving portion designed to receive the sealing element at least partially. In particular, the fixed receiving portion of the fixed part is designed to be positioned behind the center point of rotation of the sealing element when viewed axially with respect to the sealing sheet.

[0009] The sealing element is mounted movably, particularly to the operating part within the sealing device, and preferably detachably. In particular, the sealing element and the operating part are distinct components of the sealing device. It is advantageous for the sealing element and the operating part to be positioned relative to each other without material flow and / or force flow and / or geometry fitting and / or forced fit.

[0010] A sealing sheet is placed on an operating part and other components. Preferably, a sealing sheet is placed on a sealing element and other components. In particular, the sealing element works in cooperation with the sealing sheet to seal the operating part and other components, preferably the sealing element and other components. For example, the sealing sheet may be placed in the valve housing of a high-pressure valve. The sealing sheet may be formed integrally with the valve housing. According to an advantageous embodiment, the diameter of the sealing sheet is 0.2 mm or more, particularly 0.3 mm or more, preferably 0.4 mm or more, and more preferably 0.5 mm or more. The diameter of the sealing sheet is preferably 80 mm or less, particularly 75 mm or less, preferably 60 mm or less, and more preferably 50 mm or less.

[0011] In the open position, the sealing device is at least partially open. For example, after the sealing element and the operating part are connected and positioned relative to the sealing sheet, the sealing device is in the open position. In the open position, the sealing element and the sealing sheet are spaced apart from each other. In the open position, the sealing sheet is not sealed. In the open position, particularly in the open position prior to the initial operation of the sealing device, the sealing element may be positioned at an angle relative to the operating part.

[0012] In the sealing position, particularly during the transition from the open position to the sealing position, the operating part presses the sealing element against the sealing sheet axially, preferably only axially. For sealing in the sealing position, the sealing element needs to contact the sealing sheet. In particular, the operating part and the sealing element are provided to be positioned parallel to each other in the sealing position. Preferably, in the sealing position, the inclined portion of the operating part contacts the contact portion of the sealing element.

[0013] Preferably, a force from the operating part acts on the sealing element while the sealing device is transitioning from an open position to a sealed position. In particular, a contact portion is provided to become the point of force application of the operating part.

[0014] The sealing element may be tilted during transition from the open position and from the open position to the sealed position. In particular, the sealing element is provided to be tilted only in the open position, at least partially. Additionally, the sealing element is provided not to be tilted in the sealed position. It is advantageous for the sealing element to be provided to be axially tilted about the longitudinal axis of the sealing device. In particular, the tilting movement of the sealing element is provided to occur without compression of the sealing element, preferably without axial compression of the sealing element. Furthermore, the sealing element is provided to perform axial movement in addition to tilting movement under the influence of the operating part.

[0015] It is advantageous for the inclined portion, particularly the center of gravity of the inclined portion, to be located on the central axis of the operating part. Additionally, the contact portion, particularly the center of gravity of the contact portion, may be positioned on the central axis of the sealing element. Preferably, at the sealing position, the central axis of the sealing element coincides with the central axis of the operating part. In particular, at the sealing position, the central axis of the sealing element and / or the central axis of the operating part is provided to coincide with the longitudinal axis of the sealing device. Alternatively, the central axis of the sealing element and / or the central axis of the operating part and / or the longitudinal axis of the sealing device may differ from each other in at least pairs. Preferably, while the sealing element is tilting relative to the operating part, the direction of the longitudinal axis of the sealing element is provided to change with respect to the direction of the longitudinal axis of the operating part.

[0016] Preferably, the surface area, particularly the diameter, of the contact portion is provided to be smaller than or equal to the diameter of the sealing element, preferably the diameter of the base surface of the sealing element. In particular, the diameter of the contact portion is less than or equal to half the diameter of the opening to be sealed in the sealing sheet. The surface area, particularly the diameter, of the contact portion may be substantially equal to the surface area, particularly the diameter, of the inclined portion.

[0017] It is advantageous for the maximum inclination angle of the sealing element in the open position to be 50° or less, preferably 45° or less, and more preferably 40° or less. The inclination angle of the sealing element is represented as the angle between the plane on which the front surface of the sealing element is placed and the plane on which the sealing sheet is placed. This angle may also be referred to as the inclination angle.

[0018] In particular, the sealing device, especially the operating part, has a pressure equilibrium channel. Preferably, the pressure equilibrium channel is positioned and adjusted to achieve pressure equilibrium between the face of the sealing element with contact and the face of the sealing element facing the sealing sheet.

[0019] Preferably, the sealing device, in particular the sealing element, has heat resistance in a temperature range of -60°C to +120°C, preferably -50°C to +100°C, and more preferably -40°C to +85°C.

[0020] Since the sealing element having a contact portion can be tilted relative to the operating part around the inclined portion of the operating part in the open position, it is possible to correct misalignment of the sealing element during the transition from the open position to the sealed position. This reduces the closing force required for sealing. At the same time, wear caused by misalignment of the sealing element is reduced, thereby improving the lifespan of the sealing device. Furthermore, the control precision of the high-pressure valve equipped with the sealing device according to the present invention is improved. The self-aligning sealing element provides a correction effect, allowing for larger manufacturing and joining tolerances, thus reducing manufacturing complexity. Moreover, the durability of the sealing device according to the present invention is improved because it is possible to replace only the sealing element or only the operating part.

[0021] According to a preferred improvement of the present invention, the inclined portion is positioned on the surface of the operating part facing the sealing sheet. Alternatively or additionally, the contact portion of the sealing element is positioned to face the operating part. In particular, at the sealing position, the contact portion contacts the inclined portion.

[0022] Advantageously, in the open position and / or during tilting motion, the base surface of the sealing element, e.g., the axial base surface of the sealing element, is provided to contact the operating part only through the contact portion. The base surface includes the contact portion. Preferably, the base surface is one side of the sealing element, e.g., the top surface. In particular, the base surface may be formed as a curved surface. The base surface may be bordered by a perimeter wall and / or a perimeter wall portion.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the inclined portion of the operating part has a protrusion, preferably a protruding protrusion. Alternatively or additionally, in particular, the contact portion of the sealing element has a protrusion, preferably a protruding protrusion. Preferably, the apex of the protrusion, for example, the highest point of the base surface including the contact portion, is positioned on the central axis of the sealing device at the sealing position. In particular, the contact portion is positioned at the centroid of the base surface. In particular, the base surface is designed to be point-symmetric with respect to the apex of the protrusion. It is advantageous for the protrusion to have a curved shape. For example, the protrusion is designed at least partially as a cone and / or a truncated cone and / or a sphere and / or a paraboloid and / or a spherical segment, for example, a hemisphere. Preferably, the entire sealing element is designed in an arch shape, in particular in a spherical segment shape.

[0024] To facilitate tilting motion, the sealing element, in particular, is designed to be guided by a protrusion during the tilting motion. During the tilting motion, the contact part moves around the inclined part. For example, the contact part pivots around the inclined part. Preferably, the apex of the protrusion becomes the center of rotation for the tilting motion of the sealing element. The relative movement between the sealing element and the operating part can be determined by the protrusion.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the sealing device, the sealing element has a clamping portion. Preferably, the clamping portion is formed around the sealing element. In particular, the clamping portion has a closed contour, preferably a circumferentially closed contour. The clamping portion may be designed as a flat surface. Additionally, it is advantageous for the clamping portion of the sealing element to be provided to engage with a corresponding clamping portion of the operating part. Alternatively or additionally, a corresponding clamping portion engaging with the clamping portion of the sealing element may be provided on a fixed part. It is advantageous for the clamping portion and the corresponding clamping portion to be in contact with each other at least in a sealed position, particularly in a sealed position and an open position. Preferably, the corresponding clamping portion is formed around the operating part and / or the fixed part. In particular, the corresponding clamping portion has a closed contour, preferably a circumferentially closed contour. The corresponding clamping portion may be designed as a flat surface. In particular, if a fixed part is present, it is desirable for the threads of the fixed part to engage with the corresponding threads of the operating part so that a clamping effect occurs between the operating part and the sealing element.

[0026] At least during the tilting movement of the sealing element, a frictional force acts between the clamping portion and the corresponding clamping portion. In particular, the clamping portion and the corresponding clamping portion are provided to form an interference fit. Preferably, at least in the sealing position, and preferably in the assembled state with the sealing position, an interference fit, also referred to as a pressure fit, exists between the sealing element and the operating part. The assembled state means that the sealing element is mounted on the operating part, and, if present, the fixed element is mounted on the sealing element.

[0027] It is advantageous for the clamping portion to be positioned at a certain distance from the front surface of the sealing element. In the sealing position, the front surface of the sealing element contacts the sealing sheet. Preferably, the distance between the clamping portion and the front surface, particularly the axial distance, is 15 times or less, particularly 10 times or less, preferably 5 times or less, of the distance between the front surface and the contact portion. In particular, the distance between the clamping portion and the front surface, particularly the axial distance, may be 0.05 times or more, preferably 0.1 times or more, of the distance between the front surface and the contact portion, and more preferably, may be substantially the same as the distance between the front surface and the contact portion.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the diameter of the contact portion is smaller than or equal to the diameter of the clamping portion sheath. Preferably, the diameter of the clamping portion sheath is at least 0.5 times the diameter of the sealing sheet, particularly at least 0.75 times, preferably at least 0.8 times. The diameter of the clamping portion sheath is 4 times or less the diameter of the sealing sheet, particularly at least 3 times, preferably at least 2 times. The diameter of the sealing sheet is greater than or equal to the diameter of the opening to be sealed, particularly larger than the diameter of the opening to be sealed.

[0029] In an improvement of the present invention, the clamping portion protrudes from the sealing element. In particular, the clamping portion is formed integrally with the sealing element. Preferably, the clamping portion protrudes radially from the sealing element. In particular, the clamping portion protrudes inwardly or outwardly along the outer shell of a part of the sealing element, preferably a cylindrical shell.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, the corresponding clamping portion is formed integrally with the operating part and / or the fixed element. In particular, the corresponding clamping portion protrudes from the operating part. Preferably, the corresponding clamping portion protrudes radially from the operating part. In particular, the corresponding clamping portion protrudes inwardly or outwardly along the outer shell of a part of the operating part, preferably a cylindrical shell.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the first part, i.e., the clamping part or the corresponding clamping part, is designed as a clamping ring. In particular, the second part, i.e., the corresponding clamping part or the clamping part, has a groove, and in the assembled state, a clamping ring is disposed in this groove. Since this groove can be mounted on an operating part, the sealing element has a clamping ring. Alternatively, the sealing element has a groove, and the operating part has a clamping ring. It is preferable that the clamping ring, the sealing element, and the operating part are formed as separate components.

[0032] In an improvement of the present invention, the operating part has a receiving portion, and the sealing element is disposed at least partially within the receiving portion in the sealing position. Preferably, the sealing element may be inclined relative to the receiving portion in the open position. If the sealing element has a clamping portion, in particular, the clamping portion is provided to have a maximum outer diameter and a corresponding clamping portion to have a corresponding inner diameter. Preferably, the sealing element has a maximum outer diameter in the sealing position and contacts the corresponding inner diameter. In particular, the sealing element is provided to have an oversized dimension relative to the receiving portion. In particular, the receiving portion is preferably formed as a straight cylinder to correspond to the outer shape of the sealing element. Alternatively, a clamping ring and a groove may be provided. To facilitate assembly, it is preferable that the receiving portion be provided to have an insertion slope.

[0033] When the operating part is provided with a receiving portion, the operating part is provided to be positioned at a distance from the sealing sheet, particularly at the sealing position. In particular, only the sealing element contacts the sealing sheet.

[0034] According to an alternative embodiment, the sealing element has a receiving portion, and the operating part is positioned at least partially, preferably completely, within the receiving portion in the sealed position. Preferably, the sealing element may be inclined around the operating part in the open position. In this embodiment, it is advantageous for the clamping portion of the sealing element to protrude inward. In particular, the clamping portion is provided to form the minimum inner diameter of the receiving portion. A corresponding clamping portion may be provided on the outer diameter of the operating part. Preferably, an interference fit is made between the operating part and the receiving portion of the sealing element by having an oversized dimension relative to the receiving portion. Alternatively, a clamping ring and a groove may be provided. Additionally, to facilitate assembly, the receiving portion is provided to have an insertion bevel. Alternatively or additionally, the operating part is provided to have an insertion bevel. Through the insertion bevel of the operating part, it may be easy to assemble the receiving portion of the sealing element to the operating part.

[0035] To restrict the movement of the operating part within the receiving portion of the sealing element, it is advantageous for the operating part to be provided with a stop. In particular, the stop is provided to surround the perimeter of the operating part. Preferably, when the sealing device is maximally compressed, the sealing element contacts the stop. It is advantageous for the stop to have a rounded shape or a shape with rounded corners.

[0036] It is advantageous for the sealing element to have a front surface on the opposite side of the operating part. Additionally, at the sealing position, this front surface contacts the sealing sheet. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing element is provided with a collar, particularly a collar that encircles the perimeter, and at the sealing position, this collar contacts the sealing sheet. Preferably, the front surface is designed as a flat surface. The collar protrudes axially from the front surface toward the sealing sheet. In particular, the front surface contacts the sealing sheet only partially at the sealing position. Preferably, the front surface extends beyond the sealing sheet. For example, the front surface extends over the opening to be sealed. If present, only the collar is provided to contact the sealing sheet at the sealing position.

[0037] If the sealing element has a centering projection, it may be easier to place the sealing element on the sealing sheet. The centering projection serves as a centering of the sealing opening. In particular, the centering projection is positioned on the front of the sealing element, and preferably, the centering projection protrudes from the front of the sealing element. It is preferable that the centering projection is oriented away from the operating part. Additionally, it is preferable that the centering projection protrudes into the opening to be sealed at the sealing position. It is preferable that the outer diameter of the centering projection be smaller than the inner diameter of the opening to be sealed. Alternatively or additionally, in particular, the centering projection has a tapered tip, and it is preferable that this tip be formed at least partially as a paraboloid, a cone, or a truncated cone.

[0038] According to an alternative or additional embodiment, the sealing sheet is designed as a protrusion. Alternatively, the sealing sheet may be designed as a recess. When the sealing sheet is designed as a protrusion, it is advantageous for the protrusion to have rounded outer edges, for example, outer edges with a circular cross-sectional shape. When the sealing sheet is designed as a recess, it is advantageous for the recess to be formed as a flat surface. For example, the recess may be produced by removing material through surface treatment, for example, by grinding.

[0039] The sealing effect is enhanced when the sealing element and / or operating part and / or sealing sheet is made of an elastic material. In particular, the elastic material is an elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer. The thermoplastic elastomer may be a semicrystalline thermoplastic resin. Preferably, the semicrystalline thermoplastic resin has a maximum degree of crystallization of 50%. The thermoplastic elastomer is preferably polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polypropylene (PP), polyoxymethylene (POM), or a mixture thereof.

[0040] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the operating part and the sealing element are made of different materials. In particular, the material of the operating part has a different elastic modulus than the material of the sealing element. In particular, the first material among the materials of the operating part and the sealing element is an elastic material and / or the second material among the materials of the operating part and the sealing element is a metal. The elastomer may be a thermoplastic resin. For example, the elastomer is a semicrystalline thermoplastic resin and preferably has a maximum degree of crystallization of 50%. In addition, the resin is preferably polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polypropylene (PP), polyoxymethylene (POM), or a mixture thereof. The metal may be steel, preferably stainless steel, or preferably an aluminum alloy or aluminum.

[0041] If the operating part is manufactured from an elastic material, the sealing sheet and sealing element may also be manufactured from an elastic material. In particular, the sealing element and sealing sheet may be manufactured from a material with lower elasticity than the operating part. Preferably, the sealing sheet and the operating part are manufactured from a material with higher elasticity than the material of the sealing element.

[0042] Alternatively, the sealing sheet and the operating part, in particular, are manufactured from a material with lower elasticity than the material of the sealing element. If at least one of the three parts, namely the sealing sheet, the sealing element, and the operating part, is manufactured from a material capable of elastic deformation, the sealing effect is improved even during temperature fluctuations.

[0043] Furthermore, the above problem is solved by using the sealing device according to the present invention in a switching valve or control valve. The features and advantages of the sealing device according to the present invention described above apply equally when the sealing device is used in a switching valve or control valve, and vice versa. For example, this sealing device may be used in a hydrogen system, particularly in a hydrogen system of a vehicle, such as a commercial vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the sealing device according to the present invention is provided to be used at pressures exceeding 700 bar, particularly exceeding 800 bar, preferably up to 875 bar.

[0044] Furthermore, the above problem is solved by a sealing element for a sealing device according to the present invention. The features and advantages of the sealing element of the sealing device according to the present invention, as described above, apply equally to the sealing element according to the present invention, and vice versa.

[0045] The operating component for a sealing device according to the present invention also solves the above problem. All the features and advantages described above regarding the operating component of the sealing device according to the present invention apply equally to the operating component according to the present invention, and vice versa.

[0046] Furthermore, the above problem is solved by a sealing device, in particular by a method for operating a sealing device according to the present invention. This method is particularly intended for the initial operation of the sealing device, that is, the first operation. The sealing device to be operated comprises an operating part, a sealing element, and a sealing sheet. The sealing element is moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part. In the sealed position, the sealing element is pressed axially against the sealing sheet by the operating part. This method comprises the following steps:

[0047] - Step of moving the operating part axially toward the sealing sheet,

[0048] - A step in which the sealing element moves axially toward the sealing sheet by the movement of the operating part, thereby adhering the sealing element to the sealing sheet.

[0049] Includes

[0050] While the sealing element moves axially in the direction of the sealing sheet, the sealing element having the contact portion performs an inclined motion with respect to the inclined portion of the operating part. In particular, this inclined motion ends when the sealing device reaches the sealing position. All features and advantages described above with respect to the sealing device apply equally to the method according to the present invention, and vice versa.

[0051] The sealing element can perform tilting motion during the entire axial movement of the operating part. Preferably, the sealing element performs tilting motion only partially while the operating part moves axially. Preferably, the sealing element performs only axial movement until it comes into at least partial contact with the sealing sheet. Thereafter, until the sealing element comes into full contact with the sealing sheet, the sealing element performs tilting motion, preferably tilting motion together with axial movement.

[0052] Further advantageous embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the drawings and dependent claims. Effects of the invention

[0053] Since the sealing element having a contact portion can be tilted relative to the operating part around the inclined portion of the operating part in the open position, it is possible to correct misalignment of the sealing element during the transition from the open position to the sealed position. This reduces the closing force required for sealing. At the same time, wear caused by misalignment of the sealing element is reduced, thereby improving the lifespan of the sealing device. Furthermore, the control precision of the high-pressure valve equipped with the sealing device according to the present invention is improved. The self-aligning sealing element provides a correction effect, allowing for larger manufacturing and joining tolerances, thus reducing manufacturing complexity. Moreover, the durability of the sealing device according to the present invention is improved because it is possible to replace only the sealing element or only the operating part. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0054] FIG. 1a is a cross-sectional view of a sealing device according to a first embodiment in a high-pressure valve, and FIG. 1b is a detailed view of a sealing device according to FIG. 1a, and FIGS. 2a and 2b are cross-sectional views of a sealing device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 2c is a perspective view of a sealing element of a sealing device according to FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b, and FIG. 3a is a cross-sectional view at the sealing position of a sealing device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 3b is a perspective view of a sealing element of a sealing device according to FIG. 3a, and FIG. 4a is a cross-sectional view at the sealing position of a sealing device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 4b is a perspective view of a sealing element of a sealing device according to FIG. 4a, and FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view at the sealing position of a sealing device according to another embodiment, and FIG. 5b is a perspective view of the contact portion of the sealing element of the sealing device according to FIG. 5a. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0055] In multiple drawings, the same part is always indicated by the same reference number.

[0056] In relation to the following description, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to all or some of the features of the exemplary embodiments or the described combination of features, but rather that each individual feature of each exemplary embodiment has significant meaning for the subject of the invention, both independently of all other features described in relation thereto and in combination with any features of other exemplary embodiments.

[0057] FIG. 1a illustrates a high-pressure valve (1) having a sealing device (2). In this embodiment, the high-pressure valve (1) is designed as a control valve for hydrogen applications. The high-pressure valve (1) is suitable for use in a pressure regulator.

[0058] The sealing device (2) comprises an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5). The sealing element (4) can be moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part (3). In the sealed position, the operating part (3) presses the sealing element (4) against the sealing sheet (5) in an axial direction, i.e., axial direction A. FIG. 1a illustrates the sealing device (2) in the sealed position, and FIG. 1b illustrates a detailed view of FIG. 1a.

[0059] In the open position, the sealing element (4) having a contact portion (4a) can be tilted relative to the operating part (3) around the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3). When the sealing element (4) performs a tilting motion around the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3), the sealing element (4) changes its direction relative to the operating part (3). According to the embodiments of FIGS. 1a and 1b, the sealing element (4) can be tilted around the longitudinal axis (L) of the operating part (3). The sealing element (4) can be tilted at a tilt angle of up to 45°. Because the sealing element (4) can be tilted, misalignment of the sealing element (4) can be corrected so that the sealing element (4) makes sealing contact with the sealing sheet (5) in the sealing position.

[0060] In this embodiment, the operating part (3) is designed as a piston, but other designs such as a push pin or a push rod are also possible. The operating part (3) has a rotationally symmetric cross-section when viewed in the axial direction (A).

[0061] The sealing element (4) also has a rotationally symmetric cross-section when viewed in the axial direction (A).

[0062] Additionally, the sealing element (4) and the operating part (3) are separate parts. In particular, the sealing element (4) is detachably attached to the operating part (3).

[0063] The sealing sheet (5) is placed on a component different from the operating part (3) or the sealing element (4). For example, the sealing sheet (5) may be placed on the valve body of the high-pressure valve (1). This other component is exemplarily indicated by reference numeral 6 in FIGS. 1a and 1b. In particular, the sealing sheet (5) works in cooperation with the sealing element (4) to achieve a seal.

[0064] The inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3) is positioned on the surface of the operating part (3) facing the sealing sheet (5). The contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) is also facing the operating part (3). The central axis of the sealing element (4) coincides with the central axis of the operating part (3). In this embodiment, the central axis of the sealing element (4) and the central axis of the operating part (3) substantially coincide with the longitudinal axis (L). The inclined portion (3a) and the contact portion (4a) are positioned on the longitudinal axis (L) at the sealing position.

[0065] FIGS. 2a through 2c illustrate other embodiments of the sealing device (2). This sealing device (2) also comprises an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5). By means of the operating part (3), the sealing element (4) can move from an open position as shown in FIG. 2a to a sealed position as shown in FIG. 2b. In the sealed position, the operating part (3) presses the sealing element (4) axially against the sealing sheet (5). In the open position, the sealing element (4) having a contact part (4a) can be tilted relative to the operating part (3) around the inclined part (3a).

[0066] Similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b, the inclined portion (3a) according to FIGS. 2a and 2b is positioned on the surface of the operating part (3) facing the sealing sheet (5). The contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) also faces the operating part (3).

[0067] During the tilting motion, for example, because the operating part (3) moves the sealing element (4) from an open position to a sealed position, the base surface (4b) of the sealing element (4) contacts the operating part (3) only through the contact portion (4a). In the embodiments of FIGS. 1a and 1b and FIGS. 2a through 2c, the base surface (4b) is one side of the sealing element (4), namely the top surface. The base surface (4b) is a curved surface.

[0068] FIG. 2c is a perspective view of the sealing element (4) shown in FIG. 2a and 2b. It is seen that there is a protrusion on the contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4). This protrusion protrudes from the sealing element (4). When the sealing device (2) is in the sealing position, the apex (7) of the protrusion is located on the longitudinal axis (L) of the sealing device (2). The apex (7) of the protrusion is the highest point of the base surface (4b) having the contact portion (4a).

[0069] FIGS. 3a, FIGS. 3b, FIGS. 4a, FIGS. 4b, FIGS. 5a, and FIGS. 5b illustrate other embodiments of a sealing device (2). These sealing devices (2) also comprise an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5). By means of the operating part (3), the sealing element (4) can move from an open position to a sealed position (see FIGS. 3a, FIGS. 4a, and FIGS. 5a), and in the sealed position, the operating part (3) axially presses the sealing element (4) against the sealing sheet (5). The sealing element (4) has a contact portion (4a), and in the open position, the sealing element (4) having the contact portion (4a) can be tilted relative to the operating part (3) around the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3).

[0070] In an embodiment of the sealing element (4) illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 3b, the contact portion (4a) has a protrusion. This protrusion protrudes from the sealing element (4). When the sealing device (2) is in a sealing position, the apex (7) of the protrusion is located on the longitudinal axis (L) of the sealing device (2). The apex (7) of the protrusion is the highest point of the base surface (4b) having the contact portion (4a).

[0071] The sealing device (2) of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4a also has a protrusion. However, this protrusion is located on the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3). This protrusion protrudes axially (A) from the operating part (3) toward the sealing element (4). The apex (7) of the protrusion indicates the outermost axial point of the operating part (3). The apex (7) of the protrusion is located on the longitudinal axis (L) at the sealing position.

[0072] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5a and 5b, the sealing element (4) is designed in the shape of a spherical segment, and in particular, this spherical segment is larger than a hemisphere. The inclined portion (3a) has a shape corresponding to the contact portion (4a), namely a hemispherical concave portion.

[0073] During the tilting motion, for example, when moving from an open position to a sealed position, according to all illustrated embodiments, the sealing element (4) moves, particularly pivoting around the contact portion (4a). The sealing element (4) is guided through the protrusion during the tilting motion.

[0074] The sealing element (4) also includes a clamping part (4c). The clamping part (4c) cooperates with the corresponding clamping part (3b) of the operating part (3). Frictional force is generated between the clamping part (4c) and the corresponding clamping part (3b).

[0075] According to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1a to 2c, the clamping portion (4c) protrudes radially outward from the sealing element (4). The clamping portion (4c) is formed around the sealing element (4). Additionally, the clamping portion (4c) is formed integrally with the sealing element (4).

[0076] The clamping portion (4c) according to FIGS. 1a to 2c has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the operating part (3) in the corresponding clamping portion (3b). The sealing element (4) and the operating part (3) are designed so that the clamping portion (4c) has an oversized diameter relative to the operating part (3).

[0077] As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the clamping portion (4c) protrudes from the sealing element (4). The clamping portion (4c) protrudes into the receiving portion (8) of the sealing element (4) in the direction of the operating part (3). The clamping portion (4c) is formed integrally with the sealing element (4). The corresponding clamping portion (3b) is positioned on the outer surface of the operating part (3). FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an embodiment in which the operating part (3) has an oversized dimension compared to the receiving portion (8) of the sealing element (4). The clamping portion (4c) has an outer surface larger than the inner surface of the operating part (3) at the corresponding clamping portion (3b). Thus, a press-fit connection is made at least at the sealing position. Preferably, the press-fit connection already exists in the assembled state, that is, when the sealing element is mounted on the operating part.

[0078] The sealing element (4) according to FIGS. 4a and 4b also includes a clamping portion (4c). This clamping portion (4c) is formed to surround the perimeter and protrudes in the direction of the operating part (3) into the receiving portion (8) of the sealing element (4). The clamping portion (4c) is designed as a clamping ring (9). Additionally, the operating part (3) has a groove (10). In the assembled state, the clamping ring (9) is placed in the groove (10). The clamping ring (9) is inserted into the groove (10) before the operating part (3) and the sealing element (4) are mounted. The groove (10) is formed in the operating part (3) as a groove that surrounds the perimeter radially.

[0079] FIGS. 4a and 4b illustrate an embodiment of a sealing element (4) in which a press-fit connection is made at a sealing position by the cooperation of a clamping ring (9), a sealing element (4), and an operating part (3). In particular, the clamping ring (9) is formed to be compressible.

[0080] FIG. 5a illustrates an embodiment in which a sealing element (4) is detachably secured by a fixing part (15) formed as a clamping nut. For example, the sealing element (4) is formed as a spherical segment. The threads (15a) of the fixing part (15) work in conjunction with the corresponding threads (3d) of the operating part (3) to create a clamping effect between the operating part (3) and the sealing element (4). The fixing part (15) includes a fixing receiving part (16) designed to receive the sealing element (4) at least partially. Here, the fixing receiving part (16) of the fixing part (15) is formed to be located behind the center rotation point (R) of the sealing element (4) when viewed in the axial direction (A) with respect to the sealing sheet (5).

[0081] The sealing element (4) is particularly pressed against the operating part (3) by the fixed part (15). Here, the torque between the fixed part (15) and the operating part (3) provides the necessary clamping force. This ensures that the sealing element (4) is clamped without gaps but is movable, and that it does not tilt again after alignment.

[0082] FIGS. 1a to 2b illustrate a sealing device (2) in which an operating part (3) includes a receiving portion (8). In the sealed position, the sealing element (4) is located at least partially inside the receiving portion (8). In the open position, the sealing element (4) may be tilted relative to the receiving portion (8).

[0083] The receiving portion (8) has an insertion inclined surface (8a). Additionally, the receiving portion (8) has a straight cylindrical shape. In the sealing position, the sealing element (4) contacts the receiving portion (8) with its maximum outer diameter. A corresponding clamping portion (3b) is formed in the inner diameter of the receiving portion (8). As the sealing element (4) has an oversized size relative to the receiving portion (8), a clamping force is generated, and a press-fit connection is formed in the sealing position.

[0084] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a sealing element (4) having a receiving portion (8), similar to FIGS. 4A and 4B and FIGS. 5A and 5B. In the sealed position, the operating part (3) is located at least partially within the receiving portion (8). In the open position, the sealing element (4) can be tilted around the operating part (3). To facilitate mounting the sealing element (4) to the operating part (3), the operating part (3) has an insertion slope (3c) (see FIGS. 3A and 5A). The same effect is achieved even if the sealing element has four insertion slopes (4d) (see FIG. 4A).

[0085] All insertion slopes (3c, 4d and 8a) are formed as insertion slopes that encircle the perimeter.

[0086] As illustrated in FIGS. 3a and 4a, the operating part (3) is provided with a stop (11). The stop (11) is formed around the circumference of the operating part (3). In a maximum compression state, the sealing element (4) contacts the stop (11). To prevent damage to the sealing element (4), the stop (11) has a round shape and / or a burr-removed outer shape (11a).

[0087] The sealing element (4) illustrated in FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 2c, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b has a front surface (4e). The front surface (4e) is located on the opposite side of the operating part (3). As illustrated in FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2b, 3a, 3b, 5a, and 5b, the sealing element (4) contacts the sealing sheet (5) by the front surface (4e) at the sealing position.

[0088] In FIGS. 1a, FIGS. 1b, FIGS. 4a, and FIGS. 4b, a collar (12) is placed on a sealing element (4). In the sealing position, the sealing element (4) contacts the sealing sheet (5) with the collar (12).

[0089] The collar (12) protrudes from the sealing element (4). The collar (12) is formed as a collar that encircles the perimeter. Additionally, the collar (12) has rounded outer edges.

[0090] According to the embodiments of FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 5a, not only the front surface (4e) of the sealing element (4) but also the sealing sheet (5) is formed as a flat surface. FIGS. 5a shows an embodiment in which the fixing part (15) is spaced apart from the sealing sheet (5) at the sealing position.

[0091] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate an embodiment in which the sealing sheet (5) is formed as a convex portion (13). In the sealing position, the convex portion (13) contacts the front surface (4e) of the sealing element (4). The convex portion (13) has outer edges in the shape of round, particularly circular segments. The convex portion (13) is formed so that the operating part (3) is spaced apart from the sealing sheet (5) in the sealing position.

[0092] The sealing device (2) is operated according to the method of the present invention. To this end, the method includes the step of moving the operating part (3) axially in the direction of the sealing sheet (5). Through the movement of the operating part (3), the sealing element (4) moves axially in the direction of the sealing sheet (5) until it is in close contact with the sealing sheet (5). While the sealing element (4) is moving axially in the direction of the sealing sheet (5), the sealing element (4) performs an inclination movement with respect to the inclined part (3a) of the operating part (3) through the contact part (4a).

[0093] In particular, the sealing device (1) is provided with a pressure balancing channel (14). This pressure balancing channel (14) is illustrated only in the embodiments of FIGS. 1a and FIGS. 1b. In this embodiment, the pressure balancing channel (14) is provided in the operating part (4). The pressure balancing channel (14) is positioned and adjusted to achieve pressure balancing between the surface of the sealing element (4) where the contact portion (4a) is provided and the surface of the sealing element (4) facing the sealing sheet (5). In this embodiment, the pressure balancing channel (14) provides pressure balancing between the portion of the sealing element (4) above the clamping portion (4c) and the portion of the sealing element (4) below the clamping portion (4c).

[0094] Although not illustrated, the provision of a pressure equilibrium channel is also possible in the sealing device (2) illustrated in FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 3a, FIG. 4a and FIG. 5b.

[0095] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described, but includes all embodiments having the same effect within the meaning of the invention. The exemplary embodiments are not limited to any combination of features, but rather clearly emphasize that each individual feature may have inventive meaning independently of all other features. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the combination of features defined in the independent claims, but may be defined by any other combination of specific features among all disclosed individual features. This means that, in principle, substantially all individual features of the independent claims, particularly Claim 1, may be omitted or replaced by one or more individual features disclosed in other parts of this application. Explanation of the symbols

[0096] 1 high-pressure valve 2 sealing device 3 Operating parts 3a Sloping section 3b Corresponding clamping part 3c Insertion slope 3D Corresponding screw threads 4 sealing element 4a contact part 4b base 4c Clamping part 4d Insertion slope 4e front 5 sealing sheet 6 Other components 7 vertex 8 reception 8a Insertion slope 9 Clamping ring 10 home 11 Stop 11a Rounded shape 12 collar 13 Convex part 14 Pressure equilibrium channel 15 fixed parts 15a screw threads 16 Fixed receiving part A Axial direction L breeding stock R Rotation point

Claims

Claim 1 A sealing device (2) for a high-pressure valve (1) comprising an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5), wherein the sealing element (4) is movable from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part (3), and in the sealed position, the operating part (3) presses the sealing element (4) against the sealing sheet (5) in an axial direction, wherein in the open position, the sealing element (4) having a contact portion (4a) can be tilted relative to the operating part (3) around the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3). Claim 2 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in claim 1, the inclined portion (3a) is positioned on the surface of the operating part (3) facing the sealing sheet (5), and / or the contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) faces the operating part (3). Claim 3 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in claim 1 or 2, during tilting motion, the base surface (4b) of the sealing element (4) contacts the operating part (3) only by the contact portion (4a). Claim 4 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 3, the inclined portion (3a) of the operating part (3) and / or the contact portion (4a) of the sealing element (4) has a protrusion, preferably a protruding protrusion, and in particular, the apex (7) of the protrusion is positioned on the central axis (L) of the sealing device (2) at the sealing position. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the sealing device (2) is characterized in that the sealing element (4) is guided by the protrusion during tilting motion. Claim 6 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 5, the sealing element (4) has a clamping portion (4c), preferably a clamping portion (4c) surrounding the perimeter, and in particular, the clamping portion (4c) cooperates with a corresponding clamping portion (3b) of the operating part (3). Claim 7 In claim 6, the clamping part (4c) protrudes from the sealing element (4) and is formed integrally with the sealing element (4), or the first part, the clamping part (4c) or the corresponding clamping part (3b), is formed as a clamping ring (9), and the second part, the corresponding clamping part (3b) or the clamping part (4c), is provided with a groove (10), and the clamping ring (9) is placed in the groove (10) in an assembled state, characterized in that the sealing device (2). Claim 8 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 7, the operating part (3) has a receiving portion (8), and the sealing element (4) is at least partially disposed within the receiving portion (8) in a sealed position, and in particular, the sealing element (4) can be tilted relative to the receiving portion (8) in an open position. Claim 9 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 7, the sealing element (4) has a receiving portion (8), the operating part (3) is at least partially disposed within the receiving portion (8) in a sealed position, and in particular, the sealing element (4) can be tilted around the operating part (3) in an open position. Claim 10 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in claim 9, the operating part (3) is provided with a stop (11), particularly a stop (11) that surrounds the perimeter, and particularly in a maximum compression state, the sealing element (4) contacts the stop (11). Claim 11 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 10, the sealing element (4) has a front surface (4e) facing the operating part (3), and the front surface (4e) contacts the sealing sheet (5) at the sealing position, and / or the sealing element (4) has a collar (12), particularly a collar (12) surrounding the perimeter, and the collar (12) contacts the sealing sheet (5) at the sealing position. Claim 12 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 11, the sealing sheet (5) is formed as a convex portion (13) or the sealing sheet (13) is formed as a concave portion. Claim 13 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 12, the sealing element (4) and / or the operating part (3) and / or the sealing sheet (5) are made of an elastic material, in particular an elastomer, preferably a thermoplastic elastomer. Claim 14 A sealing device (2) characterized in that, in any one of claims 1 to 13, the operating part (3) and the sealing element (4) are made of different materials, particularly materials having different elastic moduli, and in particular, the first material is an elastic material, preferably an elastomer, more preferably a thermoplastic resin, and / or the second material is a metal, preferably steel, more preferably stainless steel, or preferably an aluminum alloy, more preferably aluminum. Claim 15 Use of a sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 in a switching valve or control valve. Claim 16 A sealing element (4) for a sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14. Claim 17 An operating part (3) for a sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14. Claim 18 A sealing device (2), and a method of operation of the sealing device (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, particularly a method of initial operation, wherein the sealing device (2) comprises an operating part (3), a sealing element (4), and a sealing sheet (5), wherein the sealing element (4) is moved from an open position to a sealed position by the operating part (3), and wherein the operating part (3) brings the sealing element (4) into axial contact with the sealing sheet (5) at the sealed position, and wherein the method comprises: a step of moving the operating part (3) axially toward the sealing sheet (5); and a step of moving the sealing element (4) axially toward the sealing sheet (5) by the movement of the operating part (3) until the sealing element (4) is brought into contact with the sealing sheet (5), and wherein, while the sealing element (4) is moving axially toward the sealing sheet (5), the sealing element (4) having a contact part (4a) performs an inclined motion with respect to the inclined part (3a) of the operating part (3). Method of operation of the sealing device (2).

Images