solenoid valve

Abstract

A solenoid valve comprises: a valve housing; a solenoid; a first plunger configured to be selectively moved linearly by the solenoid; a first valve member connected to the first plunger and configured to selectively open or close a first outlet flow path according to the movement of the first plunger; a first spring member configured to provide an elastic force so that the first valve member moves to close the first outlet flow path; a second plunger arranged to be linearly movable in the first plunger and configured to be selectively moved linearly by the solenoid; a second valve member connected to the second plunger and configured to selectively open or close the second outlet flow path according to the movement of the second plunger; and a second spring member configured to provide an elastic force so that the second valve member moves to close the second outlet flow path.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0059398, filed on May 18, 2020, in the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a solenoid valve, and more particularly, to a solenoid valve capable of ensuring sealability and having a simplified structure. Background Art

[0004] Solenoid valves can be used to regulate the flow of fluid or control pressure (flow), etc.

[0005] For example, a solenoid valve may be installed in a powertrain including a vehicle's engine and is used to regulate the flow of fluids such as fuel or oil or to control pressure. More specifically, a solenoid valve installed in a fuel system may control fuel supply and injection operations, a solenoid valve installed in a cooling system may control circulation for lubrication and cooling, and a solenoid valve installed in a powertrain may be used to control pressure and flow.

[0006] At the same time, if the sealing performance of the solenoid valve cannot be ensured, the following problems may occur, namely, it is difficult to accurately adjust (open / close) the flow rate of the fluid, the accuracy of the flow control is reduced, and safety accidents may occur. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the sealing performance of the solenoid valve.

[0007] For example, if hydrogen leaks from a solenoid valve installed in a hydrogen supply line that is required to have high sealing properties, there may be safety issues such as component damage, explosion, fire, etc. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the sealability of the solenoid valve.

[0008] However, in the prior art, in order to ensure the stability and sealability of the solenoid valve, a blocking solenoid valve for regulating the flow of the fluid and a flow control solenoid valve for controlling the flow of the fluid need to be set separately and independently. Therefore, there are problems such as complicated structure, reduced space utilization and design freedom, and increased cost and weight.

[0009] To this end, various types of research have been conducted recently to ensure the sealability of the solenoid valve and simplify the structure of the solenoid valve, but the research results are still insufficient. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a solenoid valve that can ensure sealability and has a simplified structure. Summary of the Invention

[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a solenoid valve capable of having a simplified structure while ensuring sealability.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to achieve a double blocking structure by using a single solenoid.

[0012] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to improve space utilization and design freedom and to reduce cost and weight.

[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to improve stability and reliability.

[0014] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to improve the accuracy of proportional control.

[0015] Objects to be achieved by the exemplary embodiments are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, but also include objects or effects that can be recognized from solutions or exemplary embodiments described below.

[0016] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose of the present disclosure, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure provides a solenoid valve, which includes: a valve housing; a solenoid arranged on one side of the valve housing; a first plunger, caused to move linearly selectively by the solenoid; a first valve member, connected to the first plunger and configured to selectively open or close a first outlet flow path in the valve housing according to the movement of the first plunger; a first spring member, configured to provide an elastic force so that the first valve member moves in a direction in which the first valve member closes the first outlet flow path; a second plunger, arranged to be linearly movable in the first plunger and configured to move linearly selectively by the solenoid; a second valve member, connected to the second plunger, and configured to selectively open or close a second outlet flow path in the valve housing according to the movement of the second plunger, the second outlet flow path being connected to a downstream side of the first outlet flow path; and a second spring member, configured to provide an elastic force so that the second valve member moves in a direction in which the second valve member closes the second outlet flow path.

[0017] This is to ensure the sealability of the solenoid valve and simplify the structure.

[0018] In other words, the flow rate can be controlled while regulating (opening / closing) the flow of the fluid by using a solenoid valve (flow control valve), but there is a problem in that it is difficult to maintain high sealability (especially when overpressure occurs) by using a solenoid valve that performs two functions (the function of regulating the flow of the fluid and the function of controlling the flow rate).

[0019] In addition, when the fluid is stuck due to a component defect of the solenoid valve (flow rate control valve) or external foreign matter, or when the fluid leaks from the sealing surface, it will directly lead to the occurrence of a safety accident.

[0020] Therefore, in systems or facilities requiring high stability and sealability (e.g., hydrogen supply lines), a shutoff solenoid valve for regulating the flow of a fluid and a flow control solenoid valve for controlling the flow rate of the fluid are separately and independently installed. As described above, in the prior art, since a shutoff solenoid valve for regulating the flow of a fluid and a flow control solenoid valve for controlling the flow rate of the fluid need to be separately and independently provided in systems or facilities requiring high stability and sealability, there are problems such as a complicated structure, reduced space utilization and design freedom, and increased costs.

[0021] However, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a double blocking sealing structure is formed by using the first plunger and the second plunger that operate independently, and thus advantageous effects of ensuring high sealability and improving stability and reliability may be obtained.

[0022] First, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, since the first plunger and the second plunger form a double blocking structure by independently operating using a single solenoid, the beneficial effects of ensuring high sealability, simplifying the structure, and improving space utilization and design freedom can be obtained.

[0023] Furthermore, the number of components to be controlled can be reduced, thereby achieving an effect of reducing controller and wiring costs.

[0024] In addition, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger and the second plunger can be independently operated, and thus, even if an abnormality (failure) occurs in any one of the first plunger and the second plunger, a beneficial effect of maintaining sealability can be obtained.

[0025] The timing of moving the first plunger and the second plunger by the solenoid may be variously changed according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0026] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger and the second plunger may be configured to sequentially open or close the first outlet flow path and the second outlet flow path based on a duty ratio of the solenoid.

[0027] In particular, when the duty cycle of the solenoid is within a first range, the first valve member can close the first outlet flow path, and the second valve member can close the second outlet flow path, when the duty cycle of the solenoid is within a second range greater than the first range, the first valve member can open the first outlet flow path, and the second valve member can close the second outlet flow path, and when the duty cycle of the solenoid is within a third range greater than the second range, the second valve member can open the second outlet flow path while the first valve member opens the first outlet flow path.

[0028] In particular, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first outlet flow path can be configured to have a first cross-sectional area, the second outlet flow path can be configured to have a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area, and the moving stroke of the first plunger can be limited to be smaller than the moving stroke of the second plunger.

[0029] This configuration is derived from the fact that when the cross-sectional area of ​​the first outlet flow path (first cross-sectional area) is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second outlet flow path (second cross-sectional area), the flow rate of the fluid flowing along the first outlet flow path can be equal to (or similar to) the flow rate of the fluid flowing along the second outlet flow path even if the movement stroke of the first plunger is not increased. Therefore, the following configuration can be achieved: the movement stroke of the first plunger is smaller than the movement stroke of the second plunger, and the first plunger can be operated even if the duty cycle of the solenoid is relatively small (the duty cycle is within the second range smaller than the third range).

[0030] The solenoid may have various structures capable of providing a driving force for operating the plunger.

[0031] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a solenoid may include: a bobbin on which a coil is wound; and a magnetic yoke arranged in the bobbin, so that one end of a first plunger is partially accommodated in the magnetic yoke so as to be able to move linearly, and a second plunger can be selectively moved linearly in the first plunger by a magnetic field applied to the magnetic yoke and the first plunger.

[0032] In particular, the second plunger can be arranged coaxially in the first plunger.

[0033] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second spring member can be interposed between the inner side of one end of the first plunger and the outer side of one end of the second plunger. As described above, since the second spring member is disposed between the inner surface of the upper end of the first plunger and the outer surface of the upper end of the second plunger, the structure configured to support the second spring member can be simplified and space utilization can be improved.

[0034] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide member may be provided in the bobbin to guide upward and downward movement of the first plunger.

[0035] As described above, since the guide member is provided in the bobbin, it is possible to minimize the left-right movement and deviation of the first plunger when the first plunger moves linearly and improve the driving stability of the first plunger.

[0036] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first spring member can be interposed between the first valve member and the guide member when surrounding the first plunger. As described above, since the first spring member is disposed between the first valve member and the guide member, the structure configured to support the first spring member can be simplified and space utilization can be improved.

[0037] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first valve member may be provided with a first sealing member configured to elastically contact the first outlet flow path. As described above, since the first sealing member is provided at the lower end of the first valve member, the beneficial effect of improving sealability achieved by the first valve member can be achieved.

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the second valve member may be provided with a second sealing member configured to elastically contact the second outlet flow path. As described above, since the second sealing member is provided at the lower end of the second valve member, the beneficial effect of improving sealability achieved by the second valve member can be achieved.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the yoke may have a first inclined recess, the first plunger may have a second inclined recess, the second inclined recess has an inclination corresponding to the inclination of the first inclined recess, and when the first plunger moves so that the first valve member opens the first outlet flow path, the first inclined recess and the second inclined recess may be configured to form a straight line.

[0040] As described above, in a state where the first inclined recess and the second inclined recess are formed in the yoke and the first plunger, when the first plunger moves so that the first valve component opens the first outlet flow path (when the first plunger moves upward and is in close contact with the yoke), the first inclined recess and the second inclined recess are configured to form a straight line (arranged on the same plane), thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the accuracy of the proportional control of the second plunger.

[0041] The solenoid may be the only solenoid in the solenoid valve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1 1 is a view for explaining a solenoid valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 2 1 is a view for explaining a state in which a first outlet flow path and a second outlet flow path are blocked in a solenoid valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] Figure 3 and Figure 4 1 and 2 are views for explaining a structure of operating a first plunger and a second plunger in a solenoid valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 5 is a view for explaining a movement stroke of a first plunger and a second plunger based on a duty ratio of a solenoid in a solenoid valve according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a view for explaining another example in which a second spring member is installed in the solenoid valve according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Description of Reference Numerals

[0048] 10: solenoid valve;

[0049] 100: solenoid;

[0050] 110: bobbin;

[0051] 120: yoke;

[0052] 122: First inclined recess;

[0053] 130: guide member;

[0054] 140: valve housing;

[0055] 142: inlet flow path;

[0056] 144: First outlet flow path;

[0057] 146: second outlet flow path;

[0058] 200: first plunger;

[0059] 202: second inclined recess;

[0060] 210: first valve component;

[0061] 212: first sealing member;

[0062] 220: first spring member;

[0063] 300: second plunger;

[0064] 310: second valve component;

[0065] 312: second sealing member;

[0066] 320: Second spring member. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0067] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] However, the technical spirit of the present disclosure is not limited to some exemplary embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different forms. Within the scope of the technical spirit of the present disclosure, one or more constituent elements in the exemplary embodiments can be selectively combined and replaced.

[0069] In addition, unless otherwise specifically and clearly defined and stated, the terms (including technical terms and scientific terms) used in the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be interpreted as meanings that can be generally understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. The meanings of commonly used terms such as terms defined in dictionaries may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0070] In addition, the terms used in the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are for explaining the exemplary embodiments rather than limiting the present disclosure.

[0071] Unless otherwise specifically indicated in the context of this specification, a singular form may also include a plural form. "At least one (or one or more) of A, B, and C" described herein may include one or more of all combinations formed by combining A, B, and C.

[0072] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), and (b) may be used to describe constituent elements of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] These terms are used only to distinguish one constituent element from another constituent element, and the nature, order or sequence of the constituent elements is not limited by these terms.

[0074] In addition, when a component element is described as being “connected,” “coupled,” or “attached to” another component element, the component element may be directly connected, coupled, or attached to the other component element or connected, coupled, or attached to the other component element with another component element interposed therebetween.

[0075] In addition, the description of "forming or disposing one component element above (upper) or below (lower) another component element" includes not only a case where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also a case where one or more additional components are formed or disposed between the two components. In addition, the expression "above (above) or below (below)" can include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one component element.

[0076] refer to Figures 1 to 6The solenoid valve 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a valve housing 140; a solenoid 100, which is provided at one side of the valve housing 140; a first plunger 200, which is configured to be selectively moved linearly by the solenoid 100; a first valve member 210, which is connected to the first plunger 200 and is configured to selectively open or close a first outlet flow path 144 in the valve housing 140 according to the movement of the first plunger 200; a first spring member 220, which is configured to provide elastic force so that the first valve member 210 closes the first valve member 210. The valve housing 140 includes a first valve member 310 and a second valve member 320 configured to selectively open or close the second outlet flow path 146 in the valve housing 140 according to the movement of the second plunger 300. The valve housing 140 includes a second plunger 300 disposed so as to be linearly movable in the first plunger 200 and configured to be selectively linearly moved by the solenoid 100. The valve housing 140 includes a second valve member 310 connected to the second plunger 300 and configured to selectively open or close the second outlet flow path 146 in the valve housing 140 according to the movement of the second plunger 3 ...20 connected to the second plunger 300 and configured to selectively open or close the second outlet flow path 146 in the valve housing 140 according to the movement of the second plunger 300. The valve housing 14

[0077] For reference, the solenoid valve 10 according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can be installed in various types of systems or facilities to regulate the flow of fluid or control flow or pressure, and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the type of system or facility in which the solenoid valve 10 is installed.

[0078] For example, the solenoid valve 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure can be installed in a powertrain including an engine of a vehicle and can be used to regulate the flow of a fluid such as fuel or oil or control the flow rate. More specifically, the solenoid valve 10 can be installed in a fuel system to control the supply and injection operation of the fuel, can be installed in a cooling system to control the circulation for lubrication and cooling, or can be installed in a powertrain to control pressure.

[0079] The valve housing 140 may have various structures having a predetermined space therein and include an inlet flow path 142 , a first outlet flow path 144 , and a second outlet flow path 146 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the structure and shape of the valve housing 140 .

[0080] For example, based on Figure 1 An inlet flow path 142 for supplying (introducing) fluid may be formed at the lower right end of the valve housing 140, a first outlet flow path 144 may be formed on the inner side of the central portion of the valve housing 140, and a second outlet flow path 146 may be formed at the lower end of the central portion of the valve housing 140 to be connected to the downstream side of the first outlet flow path 144, and the fluid introduced into the valve housing 140 through the inlet flow path 142 may flow through the first outlet flow path 144 and the second outlet flow path 146 in sequence, and then be discharged to the outside of the valve housing 140.

[0081] Specifically, the first outlet flow path 144 may be formed in a ring shape having a first cross-sectional area (e.g., a first diameter), and the second outlet flow path 146 may be formed in a ring shape having a second cross-sectional area (e.g., a second diameter) smaller than the first cross-sectional area and disposed in the first outlet flow path 144. More specifically, the second outlet flow path 146 may be disposed in the first outlet flow path 144 so as to be coaxial therewith.

[0082] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the inlet flow path, the first outlet flow path, and the second outlet flow path may be formed at other locations in the valve housing, and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the location and arrangement of the respective flow paths (the inlet flow path, the first outlet flow path, and the second outlet flow path). In some cases, the second outlet flow path may be arranged non-coaxially within the first outlet flow path.

[0083] The solenoid 100 is provided on one side (eg, upper side) of the valve housing 140 to provide a driving force for operating (eg, moving upward or downward) the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 .

[0084] The solenoid 100 may have various structures capable of providing a driving force for operating the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the type and structure of the solenoid 100 .

[0085] For example, the solenoid 100 includes a bobbin 110 on which a coil is wound, and a yoke 120 provided in the bobbin 110 such that one end of the first plunger 200 is partially accommodated in the yoke 120 to be able to move linearly.

[0086] For example, the bobbin 110 may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape surrounding the first plunger 200 , and the bobbin 110 is disposed at an upper side of the valve housing 140 .

[0087] A coil (not shown) may be wound on the bobbin 110 , and power may be applied to the coil from a power supply unit (not shown).

[0088] The yoke 120 is provided on the upper side of the bobbin 110 in a manner covering a portion of the inner circumference of the bobbin 110, and one end of the first plunger 200 (based on Figure 1 The upper end of the magnetic element 120 is partially accommodated in the magnetic yoke 120 so as to be movable linearly.

[0089] More specifically, the yoke 120 may have a shorter length than the bobbin 110 (based on Figure 1The yoke 120 is provided in the bobbin 110 such that an opening (not shown) of the yoke 120 points downward (e.g., toward the second outlet flow path).

[0090] The yoke 120 may be made of typical cast iron, and the material and properties of the yoke 120 may be variously changed according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0091] The first plunger 200 is provided in the bobbin 110 to be selectively linearly moved by the solenoid 100 .

[0092] The first plunger 200 may have various structures according to required conditions and design specifications. For example, the first plunger 200 may have a hollow structure that is closed at its upper end and open at its lower end.

[0093] More specifically, the first plunger 200 is configured to selectively move linearly in the up-down direction in the bobbin 110 in a state in which the upper end of the first plunger 200 is partially accommodated in the yoke 120 .

[0094] For reference, the movement (stroke) of the first plunger 200 relative to the bobbin 110 can be controlled by adjusting (e.g., on / off) the power applied to the coil, and the movement of the first plunger 200 is controlled to allow the first valve member 210 to open or close the first outlet flow path 144, thereby selectively blocking (regulating) the flow of fluid.

[0095] The first valve member 210 is connected to the lower end of the first plunger 200 and is configured to open or close the first outlet flow path 144 according to movement of the first plunger 200 .

[0096] For example, the first valve member 210 may be integrally connected to the lower end of the first plunger 200. When the first plunger 200 moves upward, the first valve member 210 moves upward together with the first plunger 200, so that the first outlet flow path 144 can be opened. Conversely, when the first plunger 200 moves downward, the first valve member 210 moves downward together with the first plunger 200, so that the first outlet flow path 144 can be blocked (closed).

[0097] The first valve member 210 may have various structures capable of opening or closing the first outlet flow path 144 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the structure and shape of the first valve member 210 .

[0098] Specifically, a first sealing member 212 (e.g., made of rubber or silicone) is provided at the lower end of the first valve member 210 and is configured to elastically and closely contact the first outlet flow path 144. As described above, since the first sealing member 212 is provided at the lower end of the first valve member 210, the beneficial effect of improved sealability achieved by the first valve member 210 can be achieved. When the first valve member 210 moves downward together with the first plunger 200 to contact the first sealing member 212, the first outlet flow path 144 can be blocked (closed).

[0099] The first spring member 220 is provided to provide an elastic force ( Figure 2 SF1 in the figure causes the first valve member 210 to move in a direction in which the first valve member 210 closes the first outlet flow path 144.

[0100] For example, a typical spring (eg, a coil spring) capable of elastically supporting the movement of the first valve member 210 may be used as the first spring member 220 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the type and structure of the first spring member 220 .

[0101] Specifically, the first spring member 220 may surround the first plunger 200 and be disposed between the first valve member 210 and the bobbin 110 (the guide member) to be elastically compressed and restored. As described above, since the first spring member 220 is disposed between the first valve member 210 and the bobbin 110 (the guide member), the structure supporting the first spring member 220 can be simplified and space utilization can be improved. In some cases, a separate support portion for supporting the first spring member 220 may be formed on the inner wall of the valve housing 140.

[0102] The second plunger 300 is provided to move linearly in the first plunger 200 , and is configured to be selectively moved linearly by the solenoid 100 .

[0103] The second plunger 300 may have various structures capable of being received in the first plunger 200 to be linearly movable, and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the structure and shape of the second plunger 300. For example, the second plunger 300 may be formed in a rod shape having a circular cross section.

[0104] In particular, the second plunger 300 is coaxially disposed in the first plunger 200 .

[0105] More specifically, the second plunger 300 is configured to selectively move linearly in the up and down directions in the first plunger 200 in a state where the upper end of the second plunger 300 is disposed in the first plunger 200 to be partially accommodated in or adjacent to the yoke 120 .

[0106] Specifically, the second plunger 300 is configured to selectively move linearly in the first plunger 200 by a magnetic field applied to the yoke 120 and the first plunger 200 in a state where the first plunger 200 moves upward to be in close contact with the yoke 120 (see FIG. Figure 3 ).

[0107] For reference, the movement (stroke) of the second plunger 300 relative to the bobbin 110 can be controlled by adjusting the power applied to the coil, and the movement of the second plunger 300 is controlled so that the second valve member 310 opens or closes the second outlet flow path 146, thereby selectively blocking (regulating) the flow of the fluid or controlling the flow rate.

[0108] The second valve member 310 is connected to the lower end of the second plunger 300 , and is configured to open or close the second outlet flow path 146 according to movement of the second plunger 300 .

[0109] For example, the second valve member 310 may be integrally connected to the lower end of the second plunger 300. When the second plunger 300 moves upward, the second valve member 310 moves upward together with the second plunger 300, thereby opening the second outlet flow path 146. Conversely, when the second plunger 300 moves downward, the second valve member 310 moves downward together with the second plunger 300, thereby blocking (closing) the second outlet flow path 146.

[0110] The second valve member 310 may have various structures capable of opening or closing the second outlet flow path 146 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the structure and shape of the second valve member 310 .

[0111] In particular, a second sealing member 312 (e.g., made of rubber or silicone) is provided at the lower end of the second valve member 310 and is configured to elastically and closely contact the second outlet flow path 146. As described above, since the second sealing member 312 is provided at the lower end of the second valve member 310, the beneficial effect of improving the sealability achieved by the second valve member 310 can be achieved. When the second valve member 310 moves downward together with the second plunger 300 to contact the second sealing member 312, the second outlet flow path 146 can be blocked (closed).

[0112] The second spring member 320 is provided to provide elastic force ( Figure 2 SF2 in the figure), so that the second valve member 310 moves in a direction in which the second valve member 310 closes the second outlet flow path 146.

[0113] For example, a typical spring (eg, a coil spring) capable of elastically supporting the movement of the second valve member 310 may be used as the second spring member 320 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the type and structure of the second spring member 320 .

[0114] In particular, the second spring member 320 can be provided between the inner side of one end of the first plunger 200 (e.g., the inner surface of the upper end of the first plunger 200) and the outer side of one end of the second plunger 300 (e.g., the outer surface of the upper end of the second plunger 300) to be elastically compressed and restored. As described above, since the second spring member 320 is provided between the inner surface of the upper end of the first plunger 200 and the outer surface of the upper end of the second plunger 300, it is possible to achieve the advantageous effect of simplifying the structure configured to support the second spring member 320 and improving space utilization.

[0115] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, Figure 6 As shown, the second spring member 320' can surround the second plunger 300 and can be disposed between the first valve member 210 and the second valve member 310 to be elastically compressed and restored. As described above, since the second spring member 320' is disposed between the first valve member 210 and the second valve member 310, the structure configured to support the second spring member 320' can be simplified and space utilization can be improved.

[0116] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a guide member 130 may be provided in the bobbin 110 to guide upward and downward movement of the first plunger 200 .

[0117] For example, the guide member 130 may be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape surrounding the first plunger 200 and disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the bobbin 110 and the outer circumferential surface of the first plunger 200, thereby guiding the linear movement of the first plunger 200. In particular, the lower end of the guide member 130 may extend to surround the bottom surface of the bobbin 110.

[0118] As described above, since the guide member 130 is provided in the bobbin 110 , it is possible to obtain the effects of minimizing left and right movement and deviation of the first plunger 200 when the first plunger 200 moves linearly and improving driving stability of the first plunger 200 .

[0119] The timing of moving the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 by the solenoid 100 may be variously changed according to required conditions and design specifications.

[0120] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 sequentially open or close the first outlet flow path 144 and the second outlet flow path 146 based on a pulse width modulation (PWM) duty cycle of the solenoid 100 .

[0121] For example, when the first plunger 200 first moves upward based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100, the first outlet flow path 144 may be opened first (before opening the second outlet flow path 146). Thereafter, when the second plunger 300 moves upward based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100, the second outlet flow path 146 may be subsequently opened (for a predetermined time interval from the time point when the first outlet flow path is opened).

[0122] Conversely, when the second plunger 300 moves downward based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 while both the first and second outlet flow paths 144 and 146 are open, the second outlet flow path 146 may be closed first (before closing the first outlet flow path). Thereafter, when the first plunger 200 moves downward based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100, the first outlet flow path 144 may be subsequently closed (for a predetermined time interval from the time when the second outlet flow path is closed).

[0123] The timing of moving the first and second plungers 200 and 300 may be variously changed based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 , and the present disclosure is not restricted or limited by the movement timing of the first and second plungers 200 and 300 based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 .

[0124] For example, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within a first range, the first valve member 210 can close the first outlet flow path 144, and the second valve member 310 can close the second outlet flow path 146. Conversely, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within a second range greater than the first range, the first valve member 210 can open the first outlet flow path 144, and the second valve member 310 can close the second outlet flow path 146. Furthermore, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within a third range greater than the second range, the second valve member 310 can open the second outlet flow path 146 while the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144.

[0125] For example, reference Figure 5 , when the target duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is 100%, the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 may be linearly (periodically) increased from 0% to 100%. Specifically, the first range may be in the range of 0% to 19%, the second range may be in the range of 20% to 39%, and the third range may be in the range of 40% to 100%.

[0126] For reference, in Figure 5In the figure, point "a" is the point at which the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is 0%, point "b" is the point at which the first plunger 200 starts to open the first outlet flow path 144, point "c" is the point at which the second plunger 300 starts to open the second outlet flow path 146, the interval between points "c" and "d" is the interval for controlling the duty cycle related to the opening operation of the second plunger 300 (the opening operation of the second outlet flow path 146), point "d" is the point at which the second plunger 300 starts to fully (maximum) open the second outlet flow path 146, and point "e" is the point at which the solenoid 100 starts to open the second outlet flow path 146. The point at which the duty cycle is 100%, point "f" is the point at which the second piston 300 begins to close the second outlet flow path 146, the interval between points "f" and "g" is the interval for controlling the duty cycle related to the closing operation of the second piston 300 (the closing operation of the second outlet flow path 146), point "g" is the point at which the second piston 300 begins to completely (maximum) close the second outlet flow path 146, point "h" is the point at which the first piston 200 begins to close the first outlet flow path 144, and point "i" is the point at which the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is 0%.

[0127] More specifically, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within the first range (see Figure 5 In the interval between "a" and "b" in FIG), the first valve member 210 can close the first outlet flow path 144, and the second valve member 310 can close the second outlet flow path 146. In this case, the first outlet flow path 144 can be kept closed by the elastic force SF1 of the first spring member 220, and the second outlet flow path 146 can be kept closed by the elastic force SF2 of the second spring member 320 (see FIG. Figure 2 ).

[0128] Next, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within the second range (see Figure 5 The interval between "b" and "c" in FIG), the second valve member 310 is kept closed and the second outlet flow path 146 is kept closed and the first valve member 210 is kept open and the first outlet flow path 144 is kept open (see FIG. Figure 3 ).

[0129] Next, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is within the third range (see Figure 5 The second valve member 310 opens the second outlet flow path 146 when the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144 (see Figure 4 ).

[0130] For reference, in a state where the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144, the first plunger 200 can be set to be in close contact with the yoke 120, and the second plunger 300 can open the second outlet flow path 146 while moving linearly by the magnetic field applied to the yoke 120 and the first plunger 200.

[0131] In addition, in a state where the duty ratio of the solenoid 100 is within the third range, the movement stroke of the second valve member 310 can be changed based on the duty ratio (the second valve member can be moved in the up and down directions), and when the movement stroke of the second valve member 310 is changed, the flow rate of the fluid passing through the second outlet flow path 146 can be adjusted (see Figure 4 ).

[0132] Conversely, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is changed from fully open to fully open both the first outlet flow path 144 and the second outlet flow path 146 (see Figure 5 The state of the interval between "d" and "f" in the ) becomes again when it is in the third range (see Figure 5 In the interval between “f” and “g” in FIG), the second valve member 310 closes the second outlet flow path 146 while the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144 .

[0133] Next, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 becomes within the second range again (see Figure 5 In the interval between “g” and “h” in FIG), the first valve member 210 closes the first outlet flow path 144 while the second valve member 310 closes the second outlet flow path 146 .

[0134] Next, when the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 becomes within the first range (see Figure 5 The interval between “h” and “i” in FIG), the first outlet flow path 144 can be kept in a closed state by the elastic force SF1 of the first spring member 220, and the second outlet flow path 146 can be kept in a closed state by the elastic force SF2 of the second spring member 320.

[0135] In particular, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first outlet flow path 144 can be formed to have a first cross-sectional area (e.g., a first diameter), the second outlet flow path 146 can be formed to have a second cross-sectional area (e.g., a second diameter) smaller than the first cross-sectional area, and the moving stroke of the first plunger 200 can be limited to be smaller than the moving stroke of the second plunger 300.

[0136] In this case, the configuration in which the movement stroke of the first plunger 200 is defined to be smaller than the movement stroke of the second plunger 300 means that the upward and downward moving distances of the first plunger 200 are defined to be smaller than the upward and downward moving distances of the second plunger 300 .

[0137] This configuration is derived from the fact that, when the cross-sectional area (first cross-sectional area) of the first outlet flow path 144 is larger than the cross-sectional area (second cross-sectional area) of the second outlet flow path 146, even if the movement stroke of the first plunger 200 is not increased (for example, even if the interval of the upward movement of the first plunger 200 is not increased to a certain extent or more), the flow rate of the fluid flowing along the first outlet flow path 144 can be equal to (or similar to) the flow rate of the fluid flowing along the second outlet flow path 146. Therefore, a configuration can be achieved in which the movement stroke of the first plunger 200 is smaller than the movement stroke of the second plunger 300, and the first plunger 200 can be operated (to open or close the first outlet flow path) even if the duty cycle of the solenoid 100 is relatively small (the duty cycle is within the second range smaller than the third range).

[0138] According to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure as described above, the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 operate independently to close the first outlet flow path 144 and the second outlet flow path 146, thereby forming a double blocking structure. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the beneficial effects of ensuring high sealability and improving stability and reliability.

[0139] In addition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 can be independently operated by only a single solenoid 100 without separately setting up multiple solenoids 100, thereby achieving the beneficial effects of simplifying the structure, improving space utilization and design freedom, and reducing costs.

[0140] Moreover, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 can be operated sequentially based on the duty cycle of the solenoid 100, so that the movement of the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 can be controlled by a single controller, and therefore, the structure of the controller and the structure for connecting the controller can be further simplified.

[0141] In addition, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 may be independently operated, and thus, a beneficial effect of maintaining sealability may be obtained even if an abnormality (failure) occurs in any one of the first plunger 200 and the second plunger 300 .

[0142] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the yoke 120 has a first inclined recess 122, and the first plunger 200 has a second inclined recess 202 having an inclination corresponding to the inclination of the first inclined recess 122. When the first plunger 200 moves so that the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144, the first inclined recess 122 and the second inclined recess 202 are arranged to form a straight line.

[0143] More specifically, a first inclined recess 122 having a predetermined inclination is formed on the lower end of the side of the yoke 120 surrounding the first plunger 200, and a second inclined recess 202 having an inclination corresponding to the inclination of the first inclined recess 122 is formed on the outer surface of the upper end of the first plunger 200.

[0144] As described above, in a state where the first inclined recess 122 and the second inclined recess 202 are formed in the yoke 120 and the first plunger 200, when the first plunger 200 moves so that the first valve member 210 opens the first outlet flow path 144 (when the first plunger moves upward and is in close contact with the yoke), the first inclined recess 122 and the second inclined recess 202 are arranged to form a straight line (arranged on the same plane), thereby achieving the beneficial effect of further improving the accuracy of the proportional control of the second plunger 300.

[0145] In other words, since the first inclined recess 122 and the second inclined recess 202 are arranged on a straight line, the magnetic field applied to the yoke 120 and the first plunger 200 can linearly increase or decrease in the up and down directions, so that the moving stroke of the second plunger 300 can be more accurately controlled. Therefore, the beneficial effect of further improving the accuracy of the proportional control of the second plunger 300 can be obtained.

[0146] As described above, according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, advantageous effects of ensuring sealability and simplifying the structure can be obtained.

[0147] In particular, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, a beneficial effect of forming a double-blocking sealing structure may be obtained by using a single solenoid.

[0148] In addition, according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, advantageous effects of improving space utilization and design freedom and reducing costs may be obtained.

[0149] In addition, according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, advantageous effects of improving stability and reliability may be obtained.

[0150] In addition, according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to obtain a beneficial effect of improving the accuracy of proportional control.

[0151] Although exemplary embodiments have been described above, the exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and changes not described above may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the essential features of the exemplary embodiments. For example, the various components specifically described in the exemplary embodiments may be modified and implemented. Furthermore, it should be understood that differences related to modifications and changes are included within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A solenoid valve, comprising: valve housing; a solenoid, disposed on one side of the valve housing; a first plunger configured to be selectively linearly moved by the solenoid; a first valve member connected to the first plunger and configured to selectively open or close a first outlet flow path in the valve housing according to movement of the first plunger; a first spring member configured to provide an elastic force so that the first valve member moves in a direction in which the first valve member closes the first outlet flow path; a second plunger disposed to be linearly movable in the first plunger and configured to be selectively linearly moved by the solenoid; a second valve member connected to the second plunger and configured to selectively open or close a second outlet flow path in the valve housing according to movement of the second plunger, the second outlet flow path being connected to a downstream side of the first outlet flow path; as well as a second spring member configured to provide an elastic force so that the second valve member moves in a direction in which the second valve member closes the second outlet flow path; Wherein, the solenoid comprises: a bobbin on which the coil is wound; and a yoke provided in the bobbin so that one end of the first plunger is partially accommodated in the yoke so as to be able to move linearly, wherein the second plunger selectively moves linearly in the first plunger by a magnetic field applied to the yoke and the first plunger, wherein the yoke has a first inclined recess, and the first plunger has a second inclined recess, the inclination of the second inclined recess corresponds to the inclination of the first inclined recess, and Wherein, when the first plunger moves to cause the first valve member to open the first outlet flow path, the first inclined recess and the second inclined recess are configured to form a straight line.

2. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, wherein: The first plunger and the second plunger are configured to sequentially open or close the first outlet flow path and the second outlet flow path based on a duty cycle of the solenoid.

3. The solenoid valve according to claim 2, wherein: When the duty cycle of the solenoid is within a first range, the first valve member closes the first outlet flow path, and the second valve member closes the second outlet flow path, wherein when the duty cycle of the solenoid is within a second range greater than the first range, the first valve member opens the first outlet flow path and the second valve member closes the second outlet flow path, and When the duty ratio of the solenoid is within a third range greater than the second range, the second valve member opens the second outlet flow path while the first valve member opens the first outlet flow path.

4. The solenoid valve according to claim 3, wherein: The first outlet flow path is configured to have a first cross-sectional area, the second outlet flow path is configured to have a second cross-sectional area smaller than the first cross-sectional area and is provided in the first outlet flow path, and a movement stroke of the first plunger is defined to be smaller than a movement stroke of the second plunger.

5. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, wherein The second plunger is coaxially disposed in the first plunger.

6. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, wherein The second spring member is interposed between an inner side of one end of the first plunger and an outer side of one end of the second plunger.

7. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, comprising: A guide member is provided in the bobbin and is configured to guide linear movement of the first plunger.

8. The solenoid valve according to claim 7, wherein: The first spring member is interposed between the first valve member and the guide member.

9. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, comprising: A first sealing member is disposed on the first valve member and is configured to contact the first outlet flow path.

10. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, comprising: A second sealing member is disposed on the second valve member and is configured to contact the second outlet flow path.

11. The solenoid valve according to claim 1, wherein: The solenoid is the only solenoid in the solenoid valve.

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