Valve equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a valve apparatus for an aircraft fluid system, the valve apparatus comprising a valve housing and a valve member. The valve member is configured to move between a first position in which fluid is allowed to flow along a fluid flow path and a second position in which the fluid flow path is restricted. A valve member actuator is configured to operate the valve member via an actuator located external to the housing. The valve apparatus further comprises a sensor configured to monitor a feature in the housing to determine a position of the valve member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve device, an aircraft component, a valve assembly, a valve sensor for an aircraft fuel system and a method for monitoring the operability of the valve device, the aircraft component, the valve assembly and the valve sensor. Background Art

[0002] Actuated valves are widely used in a variety of environments, including applications within flammable environments such as aircraft fuel tank systems. In this arrangement, the valve actuator is positioned away from the valve itself so that the valve actuator is located outside the fuel tank system.

[0003] It is known to use monitoring systems to determine when maintenance should be performed on these components.Such known arrangements for monitoring the operability of an actuated valve are typically implemented at the valve actuator, wherein the position of the valve is determined by the position of the valve shaft adjacent the valve actuator.

[0004] Known sensing devices are also generally unsuitable for use within flammable environments, such as within aircraft fuel tank systems.

[0005] It would therefore be desirable to provide an improved valve arrangement which is capable of more reliably determining the position of the valve and thus detecting valve failure. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide a valve arrangement which is suitable for use in flammable environments, such as aircraft fuel tanks.

[0006] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the aforementioned problems associated with known actuated valves. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A first aspect of the present invention provides a valve device for an aircraft fluid system, the valve device comprising: a valve housing having a fluid flow path; a valve member configured to move between a first position in which fluid is able to flow along the fluid flow path and a second position in which the fluid flow path is at least partially restricted; a valve member actuator configured to operate the valve member and configured to be operated by an actuator located outside the housing; and a sensor configured to monitor a feature in the valve housing to determine a position of the valve member.

[0008] By monitoring features in the valve housing, i.e., features close to the valve member, the number of components between the valve member and the sensor is significantly reduced, and therefore the number of components that must be assumed to be operating correctly in order to detect a fault is significantly reduced. Consequently, the valve device can more reliably determine the position of the valve member and, thus, more directly detect valve faults. This allows the valve device to more reliably detect valve faults caused by faults in the valve member transmission. This improves the overall reliability of determining valve operation.

[0009] The feature that the sensor is configured to monitor may be a valve member.By measuring the valve member directly, the number of components between the valve member and the sensor is further reduced, which equates to further improved reliability in determining the position of the valve member.

[0010] The sensor may be an optical sensor.The feature of an optical sensor enables a reduction in the number of electrical components, which is often desirable when the valve apparatus is used in a flammable environment.

[0011] The optical sensor may have an optical sensor door on the valve member.

[0012] The optical sensor door may be isolated from fluid that can flow along the fluid flow path. The valve housing may be isolated from the optical sensor door from fluid that can flow along the fluid flow path. The valve housing may be configured to be disposed in a fluid tank of an aircraft fluid system.

[0013] The sensor may have an optical signal path, wherein the optical sensor door includes an optical signal transmission path configured to move into and out of alignment with the optical signal path.

[0014] The optical sensor door may be fluidically isolated. That is, the optical sensor door is isolated from the fluid flow path and from fluid that can flow along the fluid flow path.

[0015] The optical signal transmission path may include an optical component, and optionally, the optical component is an optical rod. The optical rod may be a glass rod. Alternatively, the optical rod may be any other suitable optical material.

[0016] The valve device may comprise an optical input and an optical output, wherein the optical signal path extends between the optical input and the optical output.An end of the input path portion and an end of the output path portion may be arranged adjacent to the optical sensor door.

[0017] The optical signal path may include an input path portion between the optical input portion and the optical signal transmission path, and an output path portion between the optical signal transmission path and the optical output portion.

[0018] The optical input may be a first optical input and the valve device may include a second optical input, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the first optical input with the optical output when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the second optical input with the optical output when the valve member is in the second position.

[0019] The optical output portion may be a first optical output portion and the valve device may include a second optical output portion, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the optical input portion with the first optical output portion when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the optical input portion with the second optical output portion when the valve member is in the second position.

[0020] The optical input portion may be a first optical input portion, the optical output portion may be a first optical output portion, the optical signal path may be a first optical signal path, and the valve may further include a second optical input portion, a second optical output portion, and a second optical signal path extending between the second optical input portion and the second optical output portion, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to align with the first optical signal path when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to align with the second optical signal path when the valve member is in the second position.

[0021] The input passage portion and the output passage portion may be optical conduits. The optical conduits may include optical materials. The optical materials may be glass.

[0022] The optical conduit has the advantage of reducing the attenuation of the signal as it passes from the optical input to the optical output.

[0023] The optical input and the optical output may be remote from the valve housing.The valve housing may be configured to be disposed on an opposite side of the barrier relative to the optical input and the optical output.

[0024] The valve member may be configured to close the fluid flow path in the second position.

[0025] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising a valve device and an actuator. The actuator may be spaced apart from the valve housing.

[0026] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides an aircraft assembly comprising a fluid barrier and a valve device. The valve housing may be configured to be disposed on a side of the fluid barrier opposite to a side where the optical input and the optical output are located.

[0027] The aircraft assembly may include a fluid tank in which the fluid barrier forms a boundary of the fluid tank, the valve housing is located inside the fluid tank, and the optical input and the optical output are located outside the fluid tank.

[0028] These features allow the number of electrical components housed within the fluid tank to be further reduced, which is particularly desirable for valve members used in flammable environments, such as within aircraft fuel tanks.

[0029] The valve device may be a rotary valve device. Alternatively, the valve device may be a ball valve. Alternatively, the valve device may be a butterfly valve, or may be any other suitable valve type, such as a linear valve.

[0030] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a valve sensor for a valve of an aircraft fluid system, the valve sensor comprising: an optical input portion, the optical input portion being connectable to an optical signal transmitter, the optical input portion being configured to receive a signal from the optical signal transmitter; an optical output portion, the optical output portion being connectable to an optical signal receiver; and an optical signal path, the optical signal path being located between the optical input portion and the optical output portion, wherein the optical signal path comprises an optical sensor door configured to move between a first position and a second position, the optical sensor door being configured to allow a signal to pass from the optical input portion to the optical output portion when the door is in the first position, and wherein the optical sensor door does not allow a signal to pass from the optical input portion to the optical output portion when the optical sensor door is in the second position.

[0031] Another aspect of the present invention provides a valve assembly for an aircraft fluid system, the valve assembly comprising: a valve housing having a fluid flow path; a valve member configured to move in the valve housing between an open flow position in which fluid can flow along the fluid flow path and a closed flow position in which fluid is prevented from flowing along the fluid flow path; and an optical sensing unit comprising an optical sensor door on the valve member in the valve housing, wherein the optical sensing unit is configured to monitor the position of the optical sensor door to determine the position of the valve member.

[0032] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for determining the position of a valve component for an aircraft fluid system, the method comprising the following steps: generating an optical signal and transmitting the optical signal along an optical signal path toward a feature located within a valve housing, the path of the signal being unblocked when the valve component is in a first position, and the path of the signal being blocked when the valve component is in a second position; providing an optical receiver configured to detect the optical signal after the optical signal has passed through the feature; and if any optical signal is detected at the optical receiver, monitoring the optical signal to determine the position of the valve component. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 A front view of the aircraft is shown;

[0035] Figure 2 is a schematic front view through a portion of a wing of an aircraft including a fuel system;

[0036] Figure 3is a schematic cross-sectional view of a valve device;

[0037] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a valve member transmission device located between a valve actuator and a valve member;

[0038] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the valve device;

[0039] Figure 6 is a rotational schematic diagram of the valve apparatus showing the optical gate in a first position; and

[0040] Figure 7 is a rotational schematic diagram of the valve device showing the optical gate in a second position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Figure 1 A fuel system 3a ( Figure 2 ), the fuel system 3a includes a valve device 40 ( Figure 3 (as shown in ). The aircraft has a fuselage 2 and two wings 3 extending from either side of the fuselage 2. Each wing 3 extends spanwise from a wing root 5 to a wing tip 6, where the wing meets the fuselage 2. Each wing 3 is a dihedral wing, so that the wing 3 angles upward as it extends toward the wing tip 6. However, it should be understood that the present invention may also be used in aircraft having an anhedral wing or any other suitable wing design. An engine 4 is located on the underside of each wing 3. Figure 1 A single engine 4 is shown on each wing, however the number and location of the engines may vary depending on the type of aircraft.

[0042] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view through a portion of a fuel system 3a of an aircraft 1 , viewed from the front of the aircraft. Figure 2 The fuel system 3a in the left wing 3 is shown, and the fuel system in the right wing is identical. The wing 3 includes a pair of spars (not shown) extending in the span direction and a plurality of generally planar ribs 10, 20, 30 extending in the chord direction (perpendicular to the chord). Figure 2 The wing 3 also has an upper skin 15 and a lower skin 25. Figure 2The fuel system 3a shown in FIG. 1 includes three fuel tanks 7a, 7b, and 8 separated from one another by ribs 10 and 20. Each fuel tank has a lower wall provided by skin 25; an upper wall provided by boundary portions 11, 12, and 13; a front wall and a rear wall (not shown) provided by a spar; and inner and outer side walls provided by a pair of ribs. The lower wall, upper wall, front and rear walls, and inner and outer side walls all provide a set of fluid barriers that prevent fluid from escaping from each fuel tank 7a, 7b, and 8, respectively. Alternatively, the fuel tanks 7a, 7b, and 8 can be provided as separable, independent tanks within the wing or fuselage structure.

[0043] like Figure 2 The fuel tanks 7a, 7b and 8 shown in the drawing comprise a central tank 8 in the fuselage 2, an inboard tank 7a located at the root 5 of the left wing and bounded by ribs 10, 20, and an outboard tank 7b bounded by ribs 20, 30. The left wing may also have a fuel tank (not shown) located outboard of the rib 30.

[0044] The fuel tanks 7a, 7b, 8 are arranged to be loaded with fuel when the aircraft and therefore the fuel system 3a is in use, and the fuel is fed to the engine 4 by a fuel delivery system comprising pumps 9a, 9b. The fuel system 3a also comprises a plurality of valves (e.g., Figure 3 ) to allow fuel to be delivered to fuel tanks 7a, 7b and 8 respectively.

[0045] Figure 3 A valve device 40 of a fuel system 3a is shown. The valve device 40 includes a valve housing 42 having an inlet 41, an outlet 43, and an inner cavity 44, wherein the inlet 41, the outlet 43, and the inner cavity 44 together form a fluid flow path through the valve housing 42. A valve member 46 is housed within the inner cavity 44 of the valve housing 42, and the valve member 46 is positioned in the fluid flow path. An optical sensor 45 serving as a valve sensor is configured to monitor the position of the valve member in the valve housing 42. Reference will be made later in this application to Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The optical sensor 45 is described in more detail. The optical sensor 45 is at least partially disposed in the valve housing 42.

[0046] Valve member 46 has a generally spherical body portion 47 with a passage 48 extending therethrough and a projection 49 extending downwardly from body portion 47. Optionally, lumen 44 may also include a seal around valve member 46 to prevent fluid from entering lumen 44.

[0047] The passage 48 of the valve member 46 is configured to align with the inlet 41 and the outlet 43 of the valve housing 42 when the valve member 46 is in the first open position to enable fluid to flow along the fluid flow path. Figure 3 In the embodiment, the outlet 43 is positioned at the opening 14 in the rib 20 so as to allow fluid to pass from the outer case 7b, through the valve housing 42 along the fluid flow path, and into the inner case 7a through the opening 14 when the valve member 46 is in the first open position. Alternatively, the outlet 43 may be positioned at another opening in another rib 10 so as to allow fluid to pass from the inner case 7a, through the valve housing 42 along the fluid flow path, and into the center case 8 through another opening. In yet another alternative embodiment, the inlet 41 may be positioned at an opening in the ribs 10, 20 so as to allow fluid to pass from the outer case 7b or the inner case 7a through the opening and along the fluid flow path through the valve housing 42 into the inner case 7a or the center case 8.

[0048] The inner cavity 44 has a shape corresponding to that of the valve member 46, with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the valve member 46 so as to allow the valve member 46 to rotate freely within the inner cavity 44. The valve member 46 is attached to a valve member transmission 50 that extends from the valve member 46, through the valve housing 42, and through the hole 13a in the boundary portion 13 of the tank 7b to an actuator 60 that is remotely spaced from the valve device 40. Figure 3 4. The valve member actuator 50 is shown in FIG. 4 as being integrally formed with the valve member 46. However, in alternative embodiments, the valve member actuator 50 may be connected to the valve member 46 using any suitable engagement or coupling method.

[0049] The actuator 60 is provided on the side of the boundary portion 13 opposite to the valve housing 42 , so that the valve housing 42 is provided inside the outer case 7 b and the actuator 60 is provided outside the outer case 7 b spaced apart from the valve housing 42 .

[0050] The actuator 60 is configured to apply an actuating force to the valve member transmission 50, which in turn transmits the actuating force to the valve member 46, thereby rotating the valve member 46. The actuator 60 is operable to move the valve member 46 between a first open position, in which fluid is able to flow freely along the fluid flow path, and a second closed position, in which the fluid flow path is blocked by the valve member body 47, such that fluid cannot flow along the fluid flow path. Alternatively, the valve member body 47 may only partially block the fluid flow path when the valve member 46 is in the second position, such that the flow of fluid along the fluid flow path is only partially restricted.

[0051] Although the valve actuator 60 is Figure 34. The valve member transmission device 50 is shown adjacent to the valve device 40 in FIG. 4, but this figure is schematic only and in embodiments, the valve member transmission device 50 may typically span a significant distance to transmit the actuation force from the actuator 60 to the valve member 46, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in FIG, the valve device 40 is located adjacent to the lower wall of the fuel tank.

[0052] The valve member transmission 50 includes a plurality of drive shafts 51, 53, 55, 57, 59 and mechanical couplings 52, 54, 56, 58, such as universal joints, which are configured to transmit actuating forces from the actuator 60 to the valve member 46. This enables the actuator to operate the valve member 46 to move between a first position and a second position. However, it should be understood that the number of shafts and couplings can vary. For example, the valve member transmission 50 can include a single drive shaft. Alternatively, the valve member transmission 50 can include a single mechanical coupling. Furthermore, the valve member transmission 50 can include a gearbox or multiple gearboxes.

[0053] Now refer to Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 The sensor 45 of the valve device 40 will be described in detail. The sensor 45 includes a first optical input portion 70 and a second optical input portion 72 and a first optical output portion 74 and a second optical output portion 76. The first optical signal path and the second optical signal path extend from the first optical input portion 70 and the second optical input portion 72 to the first optical output portion 74 and the second optical output portion 76, respectively, via the optical sensor door 62 accommodated in the protrusion 49 of the valve member 46. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the optical sensor door 62 forms part of the valve member 46 .

[0054] The first and second optical signal pathways are composed of first and second input pathway portions 61, 63, extending between first and second optical input portions 70 and 72, respectively, and first and second output pathway portions 65, 67, extending between optical sensor door 62 and first and second optical output portions 74, respectively, and between optical sensor door 62 and second optical output portion 76, respectively. Optical sensor door 62, first and second output pathway portions 65, 67 together form a sensing unit in valve housing 42.

[0055] The first optical input 70 and the second optical input 72 are connectable to first and second optical signal transmitters (not shown), the first and second optical signal transmitters being configured to transmit first and second optical signals to the first and second optical inputs, respectively, and the first and second optical outputs 74 and 76 are connectable to first and second optical signal receivers (not shown), the first and second optical signal receivers being configured to detect the first optical signal from the first and second optical signal transmitters. However, it should be noted that the first and second optical inputs 70 and 72 may alternatively be connected to a single optical signal transmitter via a splitter so that the single optical signal transmitter (not shown) can provide signals to both the first and second optical inputs 70 and 72.

[0056] like Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the first and second optical inputs 70 and 72 and the first and second optical outputs 74 and 76 are positioned away from the valve housing 42 and are disposed on the side of the boundary portion 13 opposite the valve housing 42. The valve housing 42 is disposed inside the outer case 7b, while the first and second optical inputs 70 and 72 and the first and second optical outputs 74 and 76 are disposed outside the outer case 7b. Disposing the first and second optical inputs 70 and 72 and the first and second optical outputs 74 and 76 outside reduces the number of electrical components within the case, which is particularly desirable when the valve apparatus 40 is used in a flammable environment, such as an aircraft fuel system 3a.

[0057] In this configuration, the first and second input pathways 61, 63, and the first and second output pathways 65, 67 are formed by optical conduits. The optical conduits extend from the optical sensor door 62 to the respective optical inputs and outputs. Typically, the optical conduits extend continuously from the optical sensor door 62 to the respective optical inputs and outputs (i.e., without any interruptions).

[0058] Valve housing 42 is disposed in fuel tank 7b. Valve housing 42 is located within the fuel tank boundary, i.e., within the tank's fluid barrier. Valve housing 42 is separable from the fluid barrier. The sensing unit is disposed on the fluid-retaining side of the tank boundary. Optical inputs 70, 72 and optical outputs 74, 76 are disposed outside of the fluid-retaining side. Valve housing 42 fluidically isolates the sensing unit from the fluid in fuel tank 7b.

[0059] However, it should be understood that the first and second optical inputs 70, 72, first and second optical outputs 74, 76, and valve housing 42 may alternatively be located on the same side of the boundary, i.e., all located within the tank. Since, in this embodiment, the first and second optical inputs 70, 72, and first and second optical outputs 74, 76 are closer to valve housing 42, the optical conduit may also be omitted.

[0060] The optical conduit has a diameter typically within the range of 4 mm, preferably 2 mm to 4 mm, although it should be understood that conduits outside this range may also be used. The optical conduit may be a fiber optic cable. The optical conduit is provided with a diameter larger than those of typical fiber optic cables. The use of an optical conduit having a large diameter allows for better alignment of the optical signal transmission path with the optical signal pathway, providing a greater tolerance for errors when aligning these components. Furthermore, the use of an optical conduit has the advantage of reducing signal attenuation between the first and second optical inputs 70, 72 and the first and second optical outputs 74, 76.

[0061] The optical sensor door 62 includes an optical signal transmission path 62a having an optical material, which in this case is a glass rod serving as an optical rod, extending through the optical signal transmission path 62a so that a signal can pass through the optical signal door 62 via the optical signal transmission path 62a. The optical signal transmission path 62a extends through a portion of the valve member 46. For example, Figure 6 and Figure 7 In FIG, the optical signal transmission path 62a extends through the protrusion 49 of the valve member. The optical rod extends through the protrusion 49 of the valve member. For example, in Figure 6 and Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the glass rod is incorporated into the protrusion 49 of the valve member 46. However, it should be understood that the optical signal transmission path 62a may comprise any other suitable optical material or, in yet another alternative embodiment, may be a hollow passageway. The optical signal transmission path 62a is distinct and separate from the fluid flow path of the valve device. The interface between the optical conduit and the optical sensor door 62 is fluidically isolated. The optical sensor door 62 is encapsulated.

[0062] In an alternative embodiment, the optical sensor door 62 can be omitted. In this alternative embodiment, the passage 48 of the valve member 46 can be used as the optical signal transmission path 62a. However, by providing a dedicated optical signal transmission path 62a that is substantially free of fluid, the optical sensor door 62 has the advantage of reducing signal attenuation as it passes through the optical signal transmission path 62a and reducing the risk of false readings.

[0063] When the valve member 46 is actuated between the first position and the second position, the actuation force applied to the valve member 46 is substantially transferred to the optical sensor door 62. This causes the optical sensor door 62 to also move in a manner corresponding to the movement of the valve member 46. The optical sensor door 62 is configured such that as the valve member 46 moves between the first position and the second position, the subsequent movement of the optical sensor door 62 causes the optical signal transmission path 62a to move into alignment with or out of alignment with the first optical signal pathway and the second optical signal pathway. As previously described, in the illustrated embodiment, the actuation force applied to the valve member causes rotation and, therefore, movement of the valve member 46, and subsequently rotation of the optical sensor door 62. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, any other suitable actuation force may be used, such as displacement, translation, pivoting, or any other suitable alternative.

[0064] When the valve member 46 is in the first position, the optical signal transmission path 62a is configured to be aligned with the first optical signal path, and the optical signal transmission path 62a is misaligned with the second optical signal path because the second optical signal path is blocked by the optical sensor door. Figure 6 . In this configuration, the first signal from the first optical signal transmitter is allowed to pass from the first optical signal transmitter through the first optical input portion 70, through the first input pathway portion 61, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, into the first output pathway portion 65, and through the first optical signal output portion 74 to be received by the first optical signal receiver. However, because the optical signal transmission path 62a is not aligned with the second optical signal pathway, the second signal from the second optical signal transmitter is not received at the second optical receiver.

[0065] Similarly, when the valve member 46 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. Figure 7As shown in FIG, optical signal transmission path 62a is configured to align with the second optical signal path while being misaligned with the first optical signal path. In this configuration, the second signal from the second optical signal transmitter is allowed to pass through the second optical input portion 72, through the second input path portion 63, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, into the second output path portion 67, and through the second optical signal output portion 76 to be received by the second optical signal receiver. However, because optical signal transmission path 62a is now misaligned with the first optical signal path 64, the first signal from the first optical signal transmitter will not be received at the first optical receiver. Subsequently, the first and second optical signal receivers can provide feedback to the operator to provide a positive indication of the position of the valve member 46. The operator can then compare the indication provided by sensor 45, which is a positive indication that the valve member 46 is in the first or second position, with the command sent to actuator 60 to determine whether the valve member 46 is operating correctly. This is usually accomplished via a system of light-emitting elements that are configured to illuminate when a signal is received. However, it should be understood that any other suitable feedback system may be used. Because the valve device 40 can provide a positive indication of the position of the valve member 46 to the operator when the valve member 46 is in both the first position and the second position, the operator can easily detect any fault that prevents the valve member 46 from correctly locating in the first position or the second position and therefore may more reliably detect the occurrence of any valve fault. It should also be understood that the operator can be a computer configured to monitor the operability of the valve member in this case. When a valve fault has been detected, the computer can then send a corresponding notification, i.e., need maintenance at the valve member being monitored.

[0066] The optical signal transmission path 62a is configured such that the corresponding optical signal passes through the optical signal transmission path 62a. For example, in embodiments where the optical signal transmission path 62a includes an optical rod, the corresponding optical signal passes from one end of the optical rod to the other end when the valve member is in the first position and / or the second position, respectively. When used in conjunction with an optical signal, it should be understood that the valve member 46 must include a necessary level of opacity to prevent the signal from being transmitted through the optical sensor door 62 other than via the optical signal transmission path 62a. The optical rod can take various forms and paths.

[0067] A number of alternative embodiments will now be described without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0068] In one embodiment, the valve device 40 can include a single optical pathway extending between the optical input and the optical output. In this embodiment, the sensor can be configured to provide a positive indication of whether the valve member 46 is in the first position or the valve member 46 is in the second position. This allows for easy detection of any fault that prevents the valve member 46 from being properly positioned in the first position. However, this arrangement may not provide a positive indication when the valve member is in the second position, or may allow for easy detection of any fault that prevents the valve member 46 from being properly positioned in the second position but may not provide a positive indication when the valve member is in the first position.

[0069] In another embodiment, the valve device 40 may include a first optical input, a second optical input, and a single optical output. Figures 5 to 7 Similar to the embodiment described in , the first input pathway portion 61 and the second input pathway portion 63 extend between the first optical input portion 70 and the second optical input portion 72 and the optical sensor door 62. The output pathway portion also extends from the optical sensor door 62 to the optical signal output portion. The first optical input portion 70 and the second optical input portion 72 can be connected to a first optical emitter and a second optical emitter, which are configured to transmit a first optical signal and a second optical signal to the first optical input portion 70 and the second optical input portion 72, respectively. In this embodiment, the first optical signal and the second optical signal provided by the first optical signal emitter and the second optical signal emitter are distinguishable from each other. For example, the first optical signal can be a constant, flat signal, while the second signal can be a pulsed signal, but it should be understood that any other suitable signal variations can be used.

[0070] When the valve member 46 is in the first position, the optical signal transmission path 62a is configured to connect the first input path portion 61 with the output path portion, allowing a first flat signal to pass from the first optical signal transmitter through the first optical input 70, through the first input path portion 61, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, through the output path portion, and into the optical output portion. Similarly, when the valve member 46 is in the second position, the optical signal transmission path 62a is configured to connect the second input path portion 63 with the output path portion, allowing a second pulsed signal to pass from the second optical signal transmitter through the second optical input 72, through the second input path portion 63, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, through the output path portion, and into the optical output portion. The optical signal output portion can be connected to an optical signal receiver that can distinguish between the first signal type and the second signal type and, therefore, can determine whether the valve member 46 is in the open position or the closed position based on the type of signal received.

[0071] In this embodiment, the first input pathway portion 61 and the second input pathway portion 63 are typically arranged at approximately 90 degrees relative to the output pathway portion. The first input pathway portion 61 and the second input pathway portion 63 are also typically disposed on opposite sides of the optical sensor door 62. The optical signal transmission path 62a is shaped so that when the valve member 46 is in the first position, the optical signal transmission path 62a is aligned with the first input pathway portion 61 and the output pathway portion, and when the valve member 46 is in the second position, the optical signal transmission path 62a is aligned with the second input pathway portion 63 and the output pathway portion. This is typically accomplished by having the optical signal transmission path 62a have a 90-degree bend. However, it should be understood that any other suitable arrangement may be used.

[0072] In another alternative embodiment, the valve device 40 may include a single optical input and first and second optical outputs 74 and 76. In this embodiment, the first and second output passage portions 65 and 67 extend between the optical sensor door 62 and the first and second optical outputs 74 and 76. Figure 5 、 Figure 6 and Figure 7 . The input pathway portion also extends between the optical signal input and the optical sensor door 62. Similar to the alternative embodiment described above, the first and second output pathway portions 65, 67 are typically positioned approximately 90 degrees relative to the input pathway portion, and the first and second output pathway portions 65, 67 are also typically positioned on opposite sides of the optical sensor door 62. The optical signal transfer pathway 62a also typically includes a 90-degree bend to allow the optical signal transmission path 62a to align the input pathway portion with the first output pathway portion 65 when the valve member 46 is in the first position, and to align the optical signal transmission path 62a with the second output pathway portion 67 when the valve member 46 is in the second position. However, it should be understood that any other suitable arrangement may be used.

[0073] When the valve member 46 is in the first position, a signal can pass from the optical signal transmitter through the optical input, through the input pathway, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, through the first output pathway portion 65, and into the first optical output 74. Similarly, when the valve member 46 is in the second position, a signal can pass from the optical signal transmitter through the optical input, through the input pathway, through the optical signal transmission path 62a, through the second output pathway portion 67, and into the second optical output 76. Similar to the valve device 40 described in the illustrated embodiment, the first optical output 74 and the second optical output 76 can be connected to a first signal receiver and a second signal receiver. The first and second optical signal receivers can then be fed back to the operator in much the same manner as in connection with the illustrated embodiment to provide a positive indication of the position of the valve member 46.

[0074] In another alternative embodiment, the valve apparatus may include additional optical pathways to enable the valve apparatus to provide a positive indication of the position of the valve member when used in conjunction with a valve system operable between three or more different positions.

[0075] Although the foregoing invention has been described in relation to optical sensors, it will be appreciated that the valve device can also be adapted for use with electrical sensors or in combination with any other suitable sensor type.

[0076] Furthermore, although the aforementioned valve apparatus has been described in relation to a ball valve, it will be appreciated that the valve apparatus may also be adapted to use a butterfly valve or any other type of rotary valve apparatus. Additionally, the valve apparatus may also be adapted to use any other suitable valve type, such as a linear valve, a pivot valve, or other similar valves.

[0077] Although the apparatus has been described in relation to an aircraft fuel tank system, it will be appreciated that the valve apparatus may also be used in any other suitable aircraft tank, such as an aircraft vent tank, or in any other suitable tank for flammable fluids, such as an automated fuel tank or a gas storage tank. Furthermore, the valve apparatus may also be used in any suitable non-flammable tank application, such as a water storage tank, on an aircraft, or in a wider range of non-aerospace applications.

[0078] Where the word "or" appears it should be interpreted to mean "and / or" such that the mentioned terms are not necessarily mutually exclusive and can be used in any appropriate combination.

[0079] Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A valve device for an aircraft fluid system, the valve device comprising: a valve housing having a fluid flow path; a valve member configured to move between a first position in which fluid is able to flow along the fluid flow path and a second position in which the fluid flow path is at least partially restricted; a valve member actuator configured to operate the valve member and configured to be operated by an actuator located external to the valve housing; as well as a sensor configured to monitor a feature in the valve housing to determine a position of the valve member, wherein the sensor is an optical sensor, and characterized in that the optical sensor comprises an optical sensor door on the valve member, wherein the optical sensor door is isolated from fluid capable of flowing along the fluid flow path, and Therein, an actuation force applied to the valve member causes rotation and thereby movement of the valve member and subsequently rotation of the optical sensor door.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, wherein The feature that the sensor is configured to monitor is the valve member.

3. The valve device according to claim 1, wherein The valve housing isolates the optical sensor door from fluid that can flow along the fluid flow path.

4. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The valve housing is configured to be disposed in a fluid tank of an aircraft fluid system.

5. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising an optical signal path, wherein The optical sensor door includes an optical signal transmission path configured to move into and out of alignment with the optical signal path.

6. The valve device according to claim 5, wherein The optical signal transmission path includes an optical rod.

7. The valve device according to claim 5, wherein The valve device further comprises an optical input and an optical output, and wherein the optical signal path extends between the optical input and the optical output.

8. The valve device according to claim 7, wherein The optical input is a first optical input, and the valve device includes a second optical input, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the first optical input with the optical output when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the second optical input with the optical output when the valve member is in the second position.

9. The valve device according to claim 7, wherein The optical output portion is a first optical output portion, and the valve device includes a second optical output portion, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the optical input portion with the first optical output portion when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to connect the optical input portion with the second optical output portion when the valve member is in the second position.

10. The valve device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein The optical input portion is a first optical input portion, the optical output portion is a first optical output portion and the optical signal path is a first optical signal path, and the valve device includes a second optical input portion, a second optical output portion and a second optical signal path extending between the second optical input portion and the second optical output portion, wherein the optical signal transmission path is configured to be aligned with the first optical signal path when the valve member is in the first position, and the optical signal transmission path is configured to be aligned with the second optical signal path when the valve member is in the second position.

11. The valve device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein The optical input and the optical output are remote from the valve housing.

12. The valve device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein The valve housing is configured to be disposed on an opposite side of the barrier relative to the optical input portion and the optical output portion.

13. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The valve member is configured to close the fluid flow path in the second position.

14. An aircraft component comprising a fluid barrier and a valve device according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein The valve housing is configured to be disposed on a side of the fluid barrier opposite to a side where the optical input portion and the optical output portion are located.

15. An aircraft assembly according to claim 14, comprising a fluid tank in which the fluid barrier forms a boundary of the fluid tank, the valve housing is located in the fluid tank, and the optical input and the optical output are located outside the fluid tank.

16. A valve assembly comprising an actuator and a valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein The actuator is spaced apart from the valve housing.

17. A method of determining a position of a valve component for an aircraft fluid system, the method comprising the steps of: An optical sensor door is provided on the valve member, the optical sensor door including an optical signal transmission path, the optical sensor door being isolated from fluid capable of flowing along a fluid flow path of the aircraft fluid system, wherein an actuation force applied to the valve member by a valve member actuator causing rotation and thereby movement of the valve member and subsequently rotation of the optical sensor door; generating an optical signal and transmitting the optical signal along an optical signal path toward the optical sensor door located within the valve housing, the optical signal transmission path of the optical sensor door being configured to move into and out of alignment with the optical signal path such that the path of the optical signal is unobstructed when the valve member is in a first position and the path of the optical signal is obstructed when the valve member is in a second position; providing an optical receiver configured to detect the optical signal after the optical signal has passed through the optical sensor gate; as well as If any of the optical signals are detected at the optical receiver, the optical signals are monitored to determine the position of the valve member.

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