Coaxial valve

Abstract

A valve may include: a body having an inlet and an outlet coaxial about an axis; a fixed valve seat between the inlet and the outlet; one or more valve members slidably coupled to the valve body and adapted to selectively couple with the valve seat; one or more biasing devices adapted to bias the valve members in one or more longitudinal directions; and one or more actuators adapted to selectively move the valve members into and / or out of sealing engagement with the valve seat. The actuator assembly may include one or more of an electro-hydraulic actuator, an electromechanical actuator, and the like.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a PCT application of U.S. patent application No. 16 / 278,520 filed on February 18, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0004] not applicable

[0005] Reference Appendix

[0006] not applicable Technical Field

[0007] The present disclosure relates generally to valves and, more particularly, to coaxial valves. Background Art

[0008] Various types of coaxial valves are known in the art, such as coaxial valves having a single tubular sleeve that is manually, pneumatically, or solenoid operated. Due to the more efficient flow of fluid through the valve, coaxial valves can, in some cases, provide higher flow rates than other types of valves (e.g., poppet valves) of equivalent flow or pipe size. In some cases, coaxial valves may also be ideal because they require less opening force than some other types of valves because they have a smaller pressure area for opening the valve. Similarly, coaxial valves can resist higher levels of back pressure than some other types of valves because the force of the back pressure acts on a relatively small area. Although known coaxial valves may be sufficient for certain applications, there is a need in the art for improved coaxial valves with different types of actuators and / or redundant sealing features.

[0009] The disclosure and teachings herein relate to systems and methods for improved coaxial valves. Summary of the invention

[0010] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow channel therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, which fluid inlet and fluid outlet may include an inlet and outlet coaxial about a central longitudinal axis and / or other positions along a valve flow path coaxial about the axis; a valve seat fluidly disposed in the valve flow channel between the inlet and the outlet; a valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to optionally couple with the valve seat to restrict or prevent fluid flow through the valve; a biasing device configured to bias the valve member in one or more longitudinal or other directions, which may include sealing engagement with or disengagement from the valve seat, or toward or away from sealing engagement with the valve seat; and an actuator assembly configured to optionally move the valve member in one or more longitudinal directions, which may include a direction opposite to or different from the first or other longitudinal direction, and sealing engagement with or disengagement from the valve seat, or toward or away from sealing engagement with the valve seat. The actuator assembly may include at least one of an electro-hydraulic actuator, an electromechanical actuator, a pump, an electric motor, a stepper motor, a gearbox, an electromagnet, a solenoid, a pilot valve, and combinations thereof.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more additional valve members, such as a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body, and a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member into or out of sealing engagement with the valve seat. The actuator assembly can be configured to selectively move the second valve member into or out of sealing engagement with the valve seat, and the valve seat can include the same or different valve seats. In at least one embodiment, the first valve member can be configured to couple to an upstream side of the valve seat, and the second valve member can be configured to couple to a downstream side of the valve seat. The actuator assembly can be configured to selectively move the second valve member in one or more directions.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve members can be configured to be coupled to the same side of the valve seat, and the actuator assembly can be configured to optionally move the valve members in one or more directions. In at least one embodiment, the second valve member can be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first valve member can be disposed within the second valve member. The second valve member can be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first valve member and at least a portion of the second valve member can be concentric. In at least one embodiment, the upstream and downstream sides of the valve seat can be disposed within one or more holes, which can include a single hole. In at least one embodiment, the upstream and downstream sides of the valve seat can be opposite sides of an integral valve seat member or multiple valve seat members.

[0013] The valve member may include a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed in a chamber of the valve body, and the actuator assembly may be configured to move the valve member in one or more directions, such as a longitudinal direction, via or by a pressurized fluid. In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly may include one or more pumps configured to pump one or more working fluids into one or more chambers. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more pilot flow channels fluidly connected to the valve flow channel and one or more chambers, and the actuator assembly may include a pilot valve member configured to be coupled to a valve seat disposed in the pilot flow channel. The valve member may include a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed in a chamber of the valve body. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more bleed holes fluidly connected to one or more chambers and the valve flow channel.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow channel therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet may be coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow channel between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to be optionally coupled to the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to be optionally coupled to the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and is configured to optionally move the first and second valve members out of sealing engagement with the valve seats.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the valve can include a first actuator configured to move the first valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second actuator configured to move the second valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat. The first valve member can be configured to couple with an upstream side of the valve seat and the second valve member can be configured to couple with a downstream side of the valve seat. In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve members can be configured to couple with the same or different sides of one or more valve seats.

[0016] One or more valve members may include an at least partially tubular sleeve that may constitute at least a portion of one or more valve flow passages. The biasing device may be configured to bias the valve member in a first longitudinal direction, and the other biasing device may be configured to bias the other valve member in one or more directions, which may be the same as or different from the first longitudinal direction. In at least one embodiment, the first biasing device may be configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction, and the second biasing device may be configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction that may be opposite to the first longitudinal direction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0018] Figure 2 is in a transitional position Figure 1 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0019] Figure 3 is in the open position Figure 1 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0020] Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0021] Figure 5 is in a transitional position Figure 4 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0022] Figure 6 is in the open position Figure 4 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0023] Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0024] Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0025] Fig. 9 is in a transitional position Figure 8 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0026] Fig.10 is in the open position Figure 8 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0027] Fig.11A is a detailed view of one of many embodiments of a valve having a single valve member according to the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig. 11B is a detailed view of one of many embodiments of a valve having multiple valve members according to the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.12 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.13 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.14 is a schematic diagram of yet another one of many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.15 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an internally piloted coaxial valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0033] Fig.16 is in a transitional position Fig.15 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0034] Fig.17 is in the open position Fig.15 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0035] Fig.18 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of an internally piloted coaxial valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position.

[0036] Fig.19 is in a transitional position Fig.18 A side sectional view of a valve.

[0037] Fig. 20 is in the open position Fig.18 A side sectional view of a valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] The drawings described above and the written description of specific structures and functions below are not intended to limit the content of the applicant's invention or the scope of the appended claims. On the contrary, the drawings and written descriptions are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of clarity and understanding, not all features of the commercial embodiments of the present disclosure are described or shown. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the development of actual commercial embodiments in combination with various aspects of the present disclosure may require many implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include and may not be limited to compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related and other constraints, which may vary depending on the specific implementation, location and time. Although the developer's efforts may be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts will be routine tasks for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure. The embodiments disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to many and various modifications and alternative forms. The use of singular terms such as, but not limited to, "one" is not intended to limit the number of items. The use of relational terms such as, but not limited to, "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "lower," "upper," "side," "first," "second," "third," etc.), "inlet," "outlet," etc., are used in the written description for clarity when specific reference is made to the drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure or the appended claims unless otherwise noted. The term "coupled," and variations, "coupler," and similar terms are used broadly herein and may include any method or device for fixing, bundling, combining, fastening, attaching, connecting together, inserting into, forming on or into, communicating with, or otherwise associating with an intermediate element (e.g., mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operatively, directly or indirectly) one or more components, and may also include, but is not limited to, integrally forming one component with another component in an integral manner. Coupling may occur in any orientation, including rotationally. The terms "including" and "such as" are illustrative and non-limiting, and the word "may" means "may but not must" unless otherwise noted. Notwithstanding any other language in this disclosure, the embodiments shown in the drawings are examples presented for purposes of illustration and explanation and are not the only embodiments of the present subject matter.

[0039] Applicants have created systems and methods for improved coaxial valves having advantageous actuators and / or having advantageous redundancy features for at least partially reducing the chance of failure during operation. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include, among other things, an actuator assembly having one or more actuators, the actuators may include at least one of: an electrohydraulic actuator, an electromechanical actuator, a pump, an electric motor, a stepper motor, a gearbox, an electromagnet, a solenoid, a pilot valve, and combinations thereof. Either alone or in combination with any of the foregoing, embodiments of the present disclosure may include a plurality of sealing components for redundantly preventing fluid from flowing through the valve when the valve is in one or more positions.

[0040] Figure 1 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Figure 2 is in a transitional position Figure 1 A side sectional view of a valve. Figure 3 is in the open position Figure 1 A side sectional view of a valve. Figure 4 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Figure 5 is in a transitional position Figure 4 A side sectional view of a valve. Figure 6 is in the open position Figure 4 A side sectional view of a valve. Figure 7 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Figure 8 is a side cross-sectional view of yet another of the many embodiments of a valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Fig. 9 is in a transitional position Figure 8 A side sectional view of a valve. Fig.10 is in the open position Figure 8 A side sectional view of a valve. Fig.11A is a detailed view of one of many embodiments of a valve having a single valve member according to the present disclosure. Fig. 11B is a detailed view of one of many embodiments of a valve having multiple valve members according to the present disclosure. Fig.12 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure. Fig.13 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure. Fig.14 is a schematic diagram of yet another one of many embodiments of a dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure. Fig.15 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an internally piloted coaxial valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Fig.16 is in a transitional position Fig.15 A side sectional view of a valve. Fig.17 is in the open position Fig.15 A side sectional view of a valve. Fig.18 is a side cross-sectional view of another of the many embodiments of an internally piloted coaxial valve according to the present disclosure in a closed position. Fig.19 is in a transitional position Fig.18 A side sectional view of a valve. Fig. 20 is in the open position Fig.18 A side sectional view of a valve. Figure 1-20 They will be described in conjunction with each other.

[0041] In at least one embodiment, a coaxial valve 100 according to the present disclosure may include a valve body 102, such as a housing, enclosure, or casing, for enclosing, protecting, or otherwise supporting one or more other valve components, and may include one or more inlets 104 for fluid to flow into the valve and one or more outlets 106 for fluid to flow out of the valve. The valve body 102 may be a single, single-piece body, or alternatively may include multiple valve body portions coupled together, and may be formed in any shape or manner depending on the particular embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, for illustrative purposes, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 Embodiments of A-1C (collectively referred to as “ Figure 1 ”), the body 102 may include a first body portion 102a and a second body portion 102b, and this embodiment is only one of many embodiments. Other variations are possible, and depending on the particular implementation, the valve 100 may include any number of body portions, any of which may be coupled to each other in any applicable manner. For example, the valve 100 may, but is not required to, include one or more couplers 103 for coupling two or more valve components together, individually or in combination, such as mating threads, other male and / or female couplers, fasteners, receivers, adhesives, or other coupling structures.

[0042] The inlet 104 may include a plurality of inlet components or other inlet portions coupled together or otherwise arranged to be in fluid communication with each other, and may include one or more inlet openings 104a for allowing fluid to flow in one or more directions between the interior and exterior of the body 102. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the opening 104a may be of any shape or size. The inlet 104 may include an inlet conduit 104b and one or more couplers 104c, the inlet conduit 104b being used to guide the fluid or otherwise allow the fluid to move therethrough, and the coupler 104c being or including a separate coupler or an integral coupler portion, which is used in whole or in part to couple with other structures 105 in the valve system, such as a pipe, conduit, hose, fluid source, fluid receiver, fluid destination, or other conduit or component. For exemplary purposes, as shown in FIG. Figure 1-3As shown, the connector 104c can be or include threads, but this need not be the case, and the connector 104c (if present) can be or include any type of fastener, fitting, or other connector now known or developed in the future, alone or in combination with one another. In at least one embodiment, the connector 104c can be or include a conduit end for connection to one or more other conduits, such as by brazing, welding, friction, bonding, or otherwise. The foregoing description of the opening 104a, conduit 104b, and connector 104c can be similarly applied to one or more other inlets, outlets, and other fluid passages of the valve 100. For example, if Figure 1-3 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of , which is just one of many embodiments, the outlet 106 may include one or more outlet openings 106a, outlet conduits 106b and / or outlet couplers 106c. Alternatively, one or more of these components may not be present as appropriate, depending on the embodiment of the present disclosure. In the related art, for example, when there are structures such as conduits 104a, 106a or couplers 104c, 106c, some people may refer to the valve as a "valve fitting." As used in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the term "valve" includes a "valve fitting" when referring to the entire device (e.g., valve 100).

[0043] The valve 100 may include one or more flow channels 108, such as valve flow channels, reservoirs, or other flow paths, for directing or otherwise directing fluid from the inlet 104 through the valve to the outlet 106 (or vice versa). For ease of illustration and explanation, the flow channel 108 may include or at least be described as including two or more sub-flow channels (or sub-flow channels), which together constitute the corresponding flow channel 108 through the valve 100. For example, in at least one embodiment, the flow channel 108 may include one or more first channels from the inlet 104 to a position along the flow channel 108 (which may be any position), such as an inlet or other flow channel, and one or more second flow channels from the position along the flow channel 108 to the outlet 106, such as an outlet or other flow channel. The valve 100 may include one or more other sub-flow channels, as described in further detail elsewhere herein, alone or in combination with each other and / or with any of the first and second flow channels. In addition, each sub-flow channel, such as the first and second flow channels, may include a plurality of shorter channels or other paths (i.e., sub-sub-channels) between two or more positions or points along the flow channel 108 or a portion thereof. The inlet 104 , the outlet 106 , and the flow channel 108 may, but need not necessarily, individually or in combination, in whole or in part, have a common axis, such as a central longitudinal axis X.

[0044] The valve 100 may include one or more apertures 110, such as structures defining or otherwise including openings, conduits, or other passages, for at least partially directing or otherwise affecting flow through the valve. The apertures 110 may be at least partially disposed within the flow passage 108, such as fluidly between the inlet 104 and the outlet 106, and may accommodate or otherwise cooperate with at least a portion of one or more sealing components of the valve (described further below). The apertures 110 may be configured to direct or otherwise allow fluid to flow along the flow passage 108 between the inlet 104 and the outlet 106, which may include directing or allowing fluid to flow around or otherwise through one or more sealing components or other valve components at least partially disposed in the flow passage 108. For example, in at least one embodiment, the apertures 110 may have a larger flow area or volume than one or more other portions of the flow passage 108, which may include having sufficient flow area or volume to allow fluid to flow through the apertures 110 around or through one or more components at least partially disposed within the apertures 110, such as when the valve 100 is in an open position. The aperture 110 may, but need not necessarily, include a plurality of openings or other flow paths for defining a portion of one or more flow channels of the valve 100, such as an aperture flow channel 111 that forms a portion of the flow channel 108. The aperture 110 may include one or more aperture inlets 110a for allowing fluid to enter the aperture and one or more aperture outlets 110b for allowing fluid to exit the aperture.

[0045] The valve 100 may include an actuator assembly 116 for controlling fluid flow through at least a portion of the valve 100, either alone or in cooperation with one or more other valve components. The actuator assembly 116 may be coupled in whole or in part to the valve body 102, such as to one or more of the first and second body portions 102a, 102b, and may, but need not necessarily, include additional body structures, such as an actuator housing 117 for housing or otherwise supporting one or more actuating components. In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly 116 may include one or more valve members 120 and one or more actuators 118 for moving and / or maintaining (or otherwise maintaining) the valve member 120 to one or more positions, from one or more positions, or maintaining one or more positions. According to a particular embodiment, the valve member 120 may have a first end 120a and a second end 120b, and may have any number of positions relative to the body 102 or another valve portion. For example, the valve member 120 may have a fully closed position for maximizing resistance to flow through at least a portion of the valve 100, which may include preventing flow therethrough. As another example, the valve member 120 can have a fully open position for minimizing resistance to flow through at least a portion of the valve 100, such as by minimizing resistance to flow caused by the valve member 120 or a portion thereof. The valve member 120 can have one or more partially open (or partially closed) positions between the fully open and fully closed positions for allowing fluid to flow at one or more rates between a maximum and a minimum flow rate, which can be any flow rate depending on the example or implementation at hand.

[0046] The actuator 118 may be or include a structure for maintaining one or more valve members 120 in one or more positions and for moving such valve members between multiple positions, such as between the two or more positions described above. Figure 1-3 In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the actuator 118 can be in one or more closed positions (see, for example, Figure 1 ), transition positions (see for example Figure 2 ) and open position (see e.g. Figure 3) to move the valve member 120 between the bore 110 and the body 102. In such an embodiment, which is only one of many embodiments, the valve 100 may include one or more valve seats 122 or valve seat members for optionally coupling with one or more corresponding valve members 120 to restrict or prevent fluid flow through the valve 100. The valve seat 122 may be at least partially disposed within the bore 110, and in at least one embodiment, may be coupled to the bore 110 and / or the body 102 in a fixed or stationary position. The valve seat 122 may be a single piece, or may include two or more valve seats or valve seat portions. The valve member 120 and the valve seat 122 may be configured to sealingly couple to each other to prevent or otherwise restrict fluid from flowing in whole or in part through one or more portions of the flow passage 108, such as through the bore flow passage 111. For example, the valve member 120 can have one or more ends (e.g., the second end 120b) or other portions for sealingly engaging the valve seat 122 or a portion thereof (e.g., the upstream side or the downstream side), which can include sealingly engaging one or more seals 124, such as a sealing disk or stopper coupled to or otherwise associated with the valve seat 122. In at least one embodiment, the valve 100 can have a fully closed position and one or more open positions, in which the valve member 120 and the valve seat 122 are sealingly engaged to prevent flow into and / or through the hole 110, and in which the valve member 120 and the valve seat 122 are not sealingly engaged, but are disposed relative to each other to allow fluid flow. Depending on the particular application, the valve member 120 or a portion thereof can be configured to seal with the valve seat 122 in any sealing manner or configuration, which can include the second end 120b being shaped or otherwise configured to cooperate with the valve seat 122 and / or one or more seals 124 (if present) in fluid-tight engagement. For example, the valve member 120 may, but need not, include one or more seals or other sealing members coupled thereto for engaging the valve seat 122 and / or the one or more seals 124 (if present).

[0047] In at least one embodiment, the valve member 120, which can be or include a sleeve, tube, or piston sleeve, can be slidably coupled to the body 102, such as to the inner surface 126 and one or more supports 128, 130, for sliding into and out of sealed communication with the bore 110 during valve operation. For example, the valve member 120 can include a tubular sleeve 132 and a piston 134, such as a disk or plate, the tubular sleeve 132 being configured to form a portion of the flow passage 108, and the piston 134 being configured to cooperate with the sleeve 132 and one or more components of the actuator assembly 116 or the actuator 118, such as by transferring force therebetween. The sleeve 132 and the piston 134 can be sealingly coupled to the body 102, such as to the inner surface 126 and / or the one or more supports 128, 130, which can include the use of one or more seals 136. For example, for illustrative purposes, as shown in FIG. Figure 1-3 As shown, the valve 100 can include one or more seals 136 coupled to the piston 134 for sealingly engaging the body 102 or the surface 126, which can include coupling to a radially outer surface 138 of the piston 134, or as another example, coupling to one or more grooves 139 in the piston 134. Alternatively or in combination, the one or more seals 136 can be coupled to the body 102 for sealing engagement with the piston 134. Similarly, the valve 100 can include one or more seals 140 for sealing engagement of the sleeve 132 (such as an outer surface 142 of the sleeve 132) and the body 102 (such as an inner surface 144 of one or more supports 128, 130). The seal 140 can be coupled to the sleeve 132, the supports 128, 130 (or another portion of the body 102), or both, and can, but need not necessarily, be coupled to one or more grooves 146 in the sleeve 132, the supports 128, 130, or another portion of the body 102. For purposes of illustration, as shown in FIG. Figure 1-3 As shown, one or more of the seals 136, 140 can be or include an annular elastomeric seal, such as an O-ring, but this need not be the case, and alternatively or collectively, depending on the particular embodiment of the present disclosure, the seals 136, 140 can be or include any type of seal having any cross-sectional shape, including elastic, non-elastic, dynamic and other seals. For example, in at least one embodiment, one or more of the seals 136, 140 can be or include a diaphragm seal, such as a rolling diaphragm seal (see, for example, Figure 7 ).

[0048] The valve 100 can include one or more chambers 148, such as cavities, compartments, or spaces, for supporting movement of one or more valve components, such as the valve member 120, and cooperation between one or more valve components, such as the valve member 120 and one or more components of the actuator assembly 116 (described further below) during valve operation. For example, the valve 100 can include a chamber 148a, such as a hole or cylindrical opening, for temporarily or otherwise receiving at least a portion of the valve member 120 (e.g., at least a portion of the sleeve 132). For example, the chamber 148a can receive and / or support at least a portion of the first end 120a of the valve member 120 when the valve member 120 is in one or more positions, which can include one or more closed positions (e.g., see Figure 1 ), transition positions (see for example Figure 2 ) and open position (see e.g. Figure 3), but not necessarily all positions. As an example, in at least one embodiment, the first end 120a can move in and out of the chamber 148a during valve operation. The valve member 120 can, but need not, sealingly engage the chamber 148a, and can, but need not, include one or more seals (not shown) at least partially disposed between the valve member 120 and the chamber 148a (e.g., in a radial direction about the axis X). In at least one embodiment, the valve 100 can include one or more chambers 148b, 148c for accommodating or otherwise supporting one or more components of the actuator assembly 116 (described further below). For example, the chamber 148b can be disposed on one side of the piston 134 and configured to accommodate one or more components that cooperate with the piston 134 or the side of the valve member 120, and the chamber 148c can be disposed on the other side of the piston 134 and configured to accommodate one or more components that cooperate with the other side of the piston 134 or the valve member 120. One or more of the chambers 148b, 148c can be fully or partially fluidly isolated from the flow channel 108 (e.g., by one or more seals as described above), and in at least one embodiment, can be in fluid communication with at least a portion of the actuator housing 117. During valve operation, the internal volume of the chambers 148b, 148c can change as the piston 134 moves.

[0049] As described above, the actuator assembly 116 may include one or more actuators 118 for moving the valve member 120 between one or more positions and one or more housings 117 for housing or otherwise supporting at least a portion of the actuator 118. The housing 117 may include one or more chambers 119a, 119b. In at least one embodiment, for example Figure 1-3 In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the actuator 118 can be or include an electro-hydraulic actuator for moving the valve member 120 in one or more directions via one or more fluids, such as a hydraulic fluid or another actuating fluid. In such an embodiment, which is only one of many embodiments, the valve 100 may include a hydraulic power unit 150 for applying fluid pressure on the valve member 120 or a portion thereof (e.g., the piston 134) to move the valve member 120 in one or more directions, such as away from the valve seat 122 and toward or to an open position, which can include a fully open position. The hydraulic power unit 150 may include a pump 152, which is in fluid communication with a working fluid 154 (e.g., a hydraulic fluid) in a fluid reservoir 156 and is configured to pump the fluid 154 into the chamber 148c for applying a force on an area of ​​the valve member 120 to move the valve member 120 (e.g., such as a fully open position). Figure 1-3148c). The reservoir 156 and the working fluid 154 can be fluidly separated from the valve flow passage 108. In at least one embodiment, the hydraulic power unit 150 can include one or more valves 158, such as control valves, check valves, or other valves, for controlling the flow of fluid into and / or out of the reservoir 156 and / or chamber 148c. The reservoir 156 and one or more components of the hydraulic power unit 150, such as the pump 154 ​​and the valve 158, can be, but are not required to be, at least partially disposed within the housing 117 or a portion thereof, such as chamber 119b.

[0050] In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly 116 can include one or more biasing devices, such as one or more springs 160, for biasing the valve member 120 or a portion thereof in one or more directions, which can include directions opposite or otherwise opposed to the force applied by the hydraulic fluid 154. For example, the spring 160 can bias the valve member 120 toward the seat 122 and toward or to a closed position, which can include a fully closed position, such as a position in which the sleeve 132 and the seat 122 are sealingly coupled. In such an embodiment, which is one of many, the valve 100 can be referred to as a normally closed valve, wherein the actuator 118 can overcome the closing force of the spring 160 (which can be any force depending on the particular implementation) to open the valve 100, and the spring 160 biases the valve 100 toward the closed position in the absence of such a force, such as during deactivation of the actuator 118, or, for example, in the event of a loss of power to the valve 100 or the hydraulic power unit 150. However, this need not be the case, and in at least one embodiment, valve 100 (and other valve embodiments disclosed herein) can be or include a normally open valve, wherein actuator 118 can overcome the opening force of spring 160 (which can be any force depending on the particular implementation) to close valve 100, and spring 160 biases valve 100 toward an open position in the absence of such force.

[0051] In at least one embodiment, the valve 100 can include one or more switches 162 for controlling one or more aspects of the operation of the valve. For example, the switch 162 can be or include a mechanical, optical, magnetic or other limit switch for limiting the travel distance d of the valve member 120, such as by stopping or limiting the application of the hydraulic fluid 154 to the piston 132. The switch 162 and / or other electrical components 164 such as terminals, controllers, other switches, indicators, lights or wires (if present) can be fully or partially contained in or supported by the housing 117 or a portion thereof such as chamber 117a. Chamber 117a can, but need not be, in fluid communication with one or more other chambers such as chamber 148b of the body 102, and can, but need not be, fluidly separated from one or more other chambers such as chamber 117b or chamber 148c, individually or in combination, in whole or in part.

[0052] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 4-6 , another of the many embodiments of valves according to the present disclosure will be described. Valve 200 functions in a similar manner to valve 100 described above, and may include one or more identical or similar components, which may appear with similar reference numerals and need not be described in detail again herein. However, valve 200 may differ from valve 100 in that it may have a different actuator assembly 216, which may include an electromechanical actuator 218 and one or more other valve components for cooperating therewith, which may be similar to those described above with respect to valve 100, but may differ in one or more aspects. Figure 4 , 5 6 show the valve 200 in the closed, transitional and open positions, respectively. Again, although the valve 200 is shown in a normally closed configuration, a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that the valve 200 may also be a normally open valve, such as by reversing the direction in which the valve member 220 is biased by the spring 160 and moved by the actuator assembly 216, respectively.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the valve 200 can include an electromechanical actuator 218, and can have an actuator housing 217, a valve member 220, and a body 202 for cooperating with the actuator 218 to open and close the valve 200. The housing 217 can have a single interior space, but is not required, and in at least one embodiment, can include two or more independent chambers, such as the chambers 119a, 119b described above with respect to the valve 100.

[0054] The actuator assembly 216 can include an electromechanical actuator 218 for moving the lead screw 270 in one or more directions, such as clockwise and / or counterclockwise relative to the body 202. In at least one embodiment, the lead screw 270 can have an internal thread 272 for threaded communication with an external thread 274 on the body 202, which can, but need not necessarily, include a body portion 202b that is threadedly or otherwise coupled to another body portion 202a, the housing 217, or both. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the lead screw 270 can have any type of teeth or threads, and in at least one embodiment, can be a high pitch lead screw. The actuator 218 can include a motor 276, such as an electric motor, a stepper motor, or other motor, for driving one or more gears 278, such as a single gear, or in at least one embodiment, multiple gears (not shown), such as multiple gears that constitute a gearbox or gear drive, for reducing the motor speed and increasing the torque applied to the lead screw 270. As another example, the actuator 218 can include one or more solenoids, alone or in combination with the motor 276, for selectively engaging the motor 276 and the gear 278 for driving communication. The gear 278, such as a drive gear, can have teeth 280a for communicating with external teeth 280b on the lead screw 270. The motor 276 can directly or indirectly drive the gear 278, which can rotate the lead screw 270 about the axis X and move the lead screw 270 in one or more directions. For example, the lead screw 270 can move left (in Figure 4-6 200, and may contact the valve member 220 or a portion thereof, such as the piston 234, to overcome the closing force of the spring 160 and force the valve member 220 away from the valve seat 122 to at least partially open the valve 200 (see, for example, Figure 5-6 As another example, the lead screw 270 may be moved to the right (in Figure 4-6 160) and can remain in contact with the valve member 220 or a portion thereof, such as under the restoring force of the spring 160, to yield to the closing force of the spring 160 and allow the valve member 220 to move toward the seat 122 and / or sealingly engage the seat 122 to at least partially close the valve 200. In at least one embodiment, the motor 276 and the gear 278 can actively rotate the lead screw 270 during the closing of the valve 200. Alternatively, the motor 276 and / or the gear 278 can passively rotate as the lead screw 270 rotates during valve closing, such as under the force of the spring 160, which can include limiting or shutting off the power provided to the motor 276, such as by one or more electrical components 164 disposed within the housing 217 or elsewhere, and which control the power provided to the motor 276 (and / or one or more solenoid drive gear drives, if present) from a power source.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, the valve 200 can include one or more auxiliary power sources, such as one or more capacitors 282, which can include one or more supercapacitors, for providing power to the valve 200 or the actuator 218 under one or more conditions, such as in the event of a loss of main power. For example, the capacitor 282 can be electrically connected to the motor 276 (and / or one or more electrical components 164) and can provide current to the motor 276 in the event of a loss of main power to cause the actuator 218 to move the valve member 220 to a default position, which can be or include a fully open position, a fully closed position, or any other position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as a partially open / closed position. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the spring 160 (if present) can be or include one or more springs or other biasing devices of any type, including but not limited to torsion springs, clock springs, extension springs, compression springs, and coil springs, alone or in combination, in whole or in part. In addition, although in Figure 4-6 In the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the spring 160 is shown as being located on the side of the piston 234 opposite the lead screw 270, but this need not be the case, and alternatively or collectively, the spring 160 can be or include one or more springs coupled to the lead screw 270 and adapted to turn or rotate the lead screw 270 in one or more directions to open or close the valve 200. As yet another example, in at least one embodiment of the valve 200, the motor 276 can be or include a linear stepper motor for driving the valve member 220 in one or more directions, such as toward and / or away from the valve seat 122. In such an embodiment, which is only one of many embodiments, the lead screw 270 may, but need not be, absent.

[0056] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 7 , another of the many embodiments of valves according to the present disclosure will be described. The valve 300 functions in a manner similar to the valves 100, 200 described above and may include one or more of the same or similar components, which may be indicated by like reference numerals and will not be described in detail herein. Figure 4-6 Compared to the embodiment of the valve 300, the valve 300 can differ from, for example, the valve 200 because the actuator 218 and one or more other valve components, such as the lead screw 270, can be disposed on opposite sides of the valve member 220 or otherwise configured to cooperate therewith. For example, the lead screw 270 can be rotatably coupled to the housing portion 202a, and the actuator assembly 216 can pull the valve member 220 away from the valve seat 122 against the force of the spring 160, rather than pushing the valve member 220 away from the valve seat 122 as in the embodiment of the valve 200 described above. As another example, one or more seals 140 can be or include a diaphragm seal, such as a rolling diaphragm seal.

[0057] In addition, in at least one embodiment, the valve 300 can include a releasable coupling 302 for selectively coupling and decoupling the lead screw 270 and the valve member 220 to each other during valve operation. For example, the coupling 302 can be or include a magnet 304, such as an electromagnet, for coupling the lead screw 270 and the valve member 220 together during powered valve operation to allow the lead screw 270 to open the valve 300 by moving the valve member 220 in a direction away from the seat 122 by overcoming the force of the spring 160. In the event of a power outage or other need for the valve 300 to return to or otherwise assume a default position, the magnet 304 can be closed to disengage the lead screw 270 and the valve member 220, and the valve member 220 can be moved to the default position, such as under the return force of the spring 160. For purposes of illustration, such a default position can be as shown in FIG. Figure 7 20. The valve 300 is shown in the closed position of the normally closed configuration, but this need not be the case, and the valve 300 may alternatively be configured as a normally open valve. The magnet 304 may be controlled by the electrical component 164, which may be at least partially contained in the housing 217. In at least one embodiment, the valve 300 may include one or more other types of couplings 302 for releasably holding the lead screw 270 and the valve member 220 together for fail-safe operation, whether alone or in combination with the magnet 304, such as fasteners, mechanically or electromechanically actuated couplings, manual releases, etc.

[0058] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 8-10 , another of the many embodiments of valves according to the present disclosure will be described. Valve 400 may function in a similar manner to one or more of the above-described valves 100, 200, 300, and may include one or more of the same or similar components, which may appear with similar reference numerals and need not be described in detail again herein. However, valve 400 may differ from the aforementioned valves in that it may have a feature of redundant operation, which may help ensure fail-safe performance in the field. Figure 8 , 9 10 and 11 respectively show the valve 400 in the closed, transition and open positions. Figure 8-10 The valve 400 is shown in a normally closed configuration, but one of ordinary skill in the relevant art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that the valve 400 may also be a normally open valve.

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the valve 400 may include an actuator assembly 416 having one or more actuators 418 for moving a plurality of valve members 420a, 420b to open and close the valve 400, such as by cooperating with one or more valve seats 422 to allow and prevent fluid flow therethrough. The valve members 420a may be similar or identical to one or more of the valve members 120, 220 described above, and the actuators 418 may be configured to move the plurality of valve members 420a, 420b during valve operation in a manner similar to that of the reference valve. Figure 1-7The actuators 118, 218 described herein move the valve member 420a into and out of sealed communication with the valve seat 422 (which may include one or more seals 124) in the same or similar manner. In addition, the valve 400 (which may be referred to herein as a dual coaxial valve) may include a second valve member 420b that is configured to control the flow of fluid through the valve 400 in a manner that is redundant with the operation of the valve member 420a, which operation may include independent or joint operation with the valve member 420a. In at least one embodiment, the valve body 402 may be arranged to retain a plurality of valve members, and the valve member 420b may be at least partially disposed within the body 402 for communication with the valve seat 422 in a manner similar to the valve member 420a, but from a different direction, such as a longitudinally opposite direction. In such an embodiment, which is only one of many embodiments, the valve seat 422 may have one or more sides and / or one or more additional seals 124 (if present) for sealingly coupling with the valve member 420b. For purposes of illustration, as shown in FIG. Figure 8-10 4. As shown in the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the actuator 418 may be or include an electro-hydraulic actuator similar to the actuator 118 described above with reference to the valve 100, and the valve 400 may include one or more additional components, such as a control valve 458, a spring 460, a switch 462, and an electrical component 464, for cooperating with the second valve member 420b (and / or the valve member 420a) in the same or similar manner as the corresponding valve components cooperate with the valve member 120b or the valve member 420a described above, but wherein the opening and closing directions of the valve member 420b are different from the opening and closing directions of the valve members 120, 420a, respectively, for example by being opposite thereto (e.g., see Fig. 9 420a and 420b, respectively). In such an embodiment, the valve 400 or actuator assembly 416 may include a single pump 152 and reservoir 156, and the two valves 158, 458 may be controlled to move the valve members 420a, 420b into and out of sealed communication with the seat 422, respectively, which may occur at the same rate, at different rates, simultaneously, selectively, independently, or otherwise. Optionally, the valve 400 may include one or more additional redundant components for operating the valve member 420b, such as one or more additional pumps or reservoirs (not shown), which may, but need not necessarily, be at least partially disposed within the housing 417. As another alternative, one or both of the valve members 420a, 420b (or any other valve member disclosed herein) may utilize or include the above referenced Figure 7 The releasable coupling 302 described (see, for example, Fig.12 ).

[0060] In these ways, valve 400 can have redundant valve components 420a, 420b to help ensure fail-safe operation, such as in the event that one valve component fails due to wear, malfunction, or other reasons during valve operation. In addition, valve 400 can advantageously provide redundancy with minimal or no further flow resistance or adverse effect on flow rate compared to embodiments having a single valve component (such as embodiments of valves 100, 200, 300). More specifically, those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that Figure 8-10 The illustrated embodiment of valve 400 (which is only one of many embodiments) utilizes opposite sides of valve seat 422 to sealably engage valve members 420a, 420b, respectively, and is more resistant to flow than valve seat 122 through bore 110 (see, e.g., Figure 1 ), the valve seat 422 creates little or no greater restriction on flow through the orifice 410. In other words, perhaps Fig.11A and 11B As best shown, the valve seat 422 can be sealingly coupled to two different valve components while maintaining or effectively maintaining the flow characteristics of a similarly sized embodiment, such as valve 100 having only a single valve component, because the valve seat 422 and / or the aperture 410 need not present any greater surface area or other obstruction to the flow of fluid through the valve 400 than the valve seat 122 and / or the aperture 110, and for valves of the same size, the flow volume of the flow passage 111 through the apertures 110, 410 can be the same or effectively the same (i.e., in terms of flow area or flow diameter, which can include, but is not limited to, for example, sizes from 1 / 4 inch to 6 inches).

[0061] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 12-13 , two more of the many embodiments of the dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig.12As shown, in at least one embodiment, a dual coaxial valve 500 according to the present disclosure can generally function in the same or similar manner as one or more of the valves 100-400 described above, but instead of (or in conjunction with) the electrohydraulic actuator 418 of the valve 400 can include an actuator assembly 516 that is at least partially housed within a housing 517 and / or valve body 502 and includes one or more electromechanical actuators 518 that are similar to those described above with reference to the valve 200. For example, the valve 500 can include a first actuator 518a and a lead screw 570a for moving a first valve member 520a relative to a valve seat 522 (e.g., side 522a) in at least one of an opening and closing direction, and a second actuator 518b and a lead screw 570b for moving a second valve member 520b relative to the valve seat 522 (e.g., side 522b) in at least one of an opening and closing direction. One or both of the valve members 520a, 520b may, but need not, include one or more releasable couplers 302 and / or seals 140 (which may be rolling diaphragm seals or other types of seals), as described above with reference to Figure 7 Describe in more detail.

[0062] Now go to Fig.13 In at least one embodiment, a dual coaxial valve 600 according to the present disclosure may generally function in the same or similar manner as one or more of the valves 100-500 described above, but may include a solenoid actuator assembly 616 instead of (or in conjunction with) one or more actuator assemblies of valves 100-500, which is at least partially housed within one or more housings 617a, 617b and / or valve body 602, and includes one or more solenoid actuators 618a, 618b. For example, valve 600 may include a first actuator 618a having a first coil 619a for moving a first valve member 620a in at least one of an opening and closing direction relative to a valve seat 622 (e.g., side 622a) and a second actuator 618b having a second coil 619b for moving a second valve member 620b in at least one of an opening and closing direction relative to a valve seat 622 (e.g., side 622b). For purposes of illustration, as shown in FIG. Fig.13 As shown, the valve 600 can be or include a normally closed embodiment, and one or more springs 160 can bias the valve members 620a, 620b toward a closed position, such as a fully closed position, wherein at least one of the valve members 620a, 620b can sealingly engage the seat 622 to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve 600. Upon activation, the coils 619a, 619b can be energized and can generate a magnetic field that interacts with the corresponding valve member 620a, 620b or a portion thereof (such as a magnetic portion) to overcome the force of the spring 160 to move the valve member 620a, 620b out of sealing engagement with the valve seat 622. Fig.13In the illustrative embodiment of (which is only one of many embodiments), the valve members 620a, 620b can move away from the seat 622 in the left-right direction during opening, and can move toward the seat 622 in the longitudinal opposite direction during closing. When deactivated, the coils 619a, 619b can be de-energized, whether completely de-energized, de-energized over time, de-energized in a controlled manner, or de-energized in other ways, and the magnitude of the magnetic field interacting with the corresponding valve member 620a, 620b during opening can be reduced (optionally zero), and one or more valve members 620a, 620b can move toward the valve seat 622 and / or seal with the valve seat 622 under the force of the spring 160. Alternatively or together, in at least one embodiment, the valve 600 can be or include a normally open valve, and one or more springs 160 can bias the valve members 620a, 620b toward an open position, such as a fully open position, wherein the valve members 620a, 620b are in a position of maximum displacement from the valve seat 622 to allow fluid to flow through the valve 600, which can be or include any displacement amount or fluid flow rate according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In such an embodiment (which is only one of many embodiments), the coils 619a, 619b can be energized and can be used in conjunction with the above embodiments for Fig.13 A similar but opposite arrangement as discussed above with respect to the exemplary normally closed embodiment of FIG. 6 is used to overcome the force of spring 160 and move valve members 620 a, 620 b into sealing engagement with seat 622 .

[0063] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Fig.14 , another of the many embodiments of the dual coaxial valve according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig.14As shown, in at least one embodiment, a dual coaxial valve 700 according to the present disclosure can generally function in the same or similar manner as one or more of the valves 100-600 described above, and the valve 700 can include a pair of redundant valve members 720a, 720b, which can be opened and closed relative to one or more valve seats 722 by one or more actuators 718a, 718b and / or biasing devices 760a, 760b, such as one or more springs or other devices, for biasing one or more valve members 720a, 720b in an open or closed direction (e.g., longitudinally along the axis X of the valve body 702). However, unlike the dual coaxial valve embodiments described above, the valve 700 can include valve members 720a, 720b that open and close in the same direction as each other, which can include at least partial concentricity. For example, the valve member 720a can be at least partially disposed within the valve member 720b, and each can have a sealing end 721a, 721b for sealingly engaging the valve seat 722 in a closed position, such as a fully closed position. The valve members 720a, 720b and / or the sealing ends 721a, 721b can be coupled to the valve seat 722 at the same time or at different times, and can engage the same surface or different surfaces of the valve seat 711, which can include coupling with one or more seals 124 (if present). The actuators 718a, 718b can be or include any actuator (e.g., actuators 118-618) disclosed herein or another actuator, either individually or in combination, in whole or in part. In addition, although two actuators 718a, 718b are shown for illustrative purposes, this need not be the case, and in at least one embodiment, the valve 700 can include a single actuator for actuating the two valve members 720a, 720b. In these ways, the valve 700 can have redundant valve members 720a, 720b to help ensure fail-safe operation with minimal or no added flow resistance, for the same reasons as described in more detail above with reference to the valve 400.

[0064] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 15-17 , another of the many embodiments of valves according to the present disclosure will be described. Valve 800 can function in a manner similar to one or more other valve embodiments of the present disclosure, in that valve 800 may include one or more valve members 820, which may optionally be coupled in sealing engagement with one or more valve seats 822. One or more identical or similar components described elsewhere herein may appear with the same reference numerals and need not be described in detail again herein. Valve 800 may differ from, for example, valve 100-600 in that it may have a different actuator assembly 816, which may include an electromagnetic pilot actuator 818 and one or more other valve components for cooperating therewith, which may be similar to those described above with respect to other valve embodiments, but may still differ in one or more aspects. Fig.15, 16 17 show the valve 800 in the closed, transitional, and open positions, respectively. Although for illustrative purposes, the valve 800 is shown in a normally closed configuration with a single valve member 820, this need not be the case. For example, in at least one embodiment, the valve 800 can also be a normally open valve; as other examples, in one or more embodiments, the valve 800 can have multiple valve members 820 and / or multiple actuators 818 that can move in the same or different directions.

[0065] In at least one embodiment, the valve 800 can include a pilot actuator 818, and can have an actuator housing 817, a valve member 820, and a body 802 for cooperating with the actuator 818 to open and close the valve 800, which can include moving the valve member 820 in one or more directions by the pressure of the fluid 801 in or flowing through the flow channel 808 of the valve 800. The valve member 820, which can be or include a sleeve, a tube, or a piston sleeve, can be slidably coupled to the body 802, such as to the inner surface 826 and one or more supports 828, 830, for sliding into and out of sealing communication with the hole 810 and / or the seat 822 during valve operation. The valve member 820 can include a tubular sleeve 832 for forming a portion of the flow channel 808 and a piston 834, such as a disc or plate, for cooperating with the sleeve 832 and one or more components of the actuator assembly 816 or the actuator 818, such as by transmitting force therebetween. The sleeve 832 and piston 834 can be sealingly coupled to the body 802, such as to the inner surface 826 and / or one or more supports 828, 830, which can include utilizing one or more seals 836. For example, for illustrative purposes, as shown in FIG. Figure 15-17 As shown, the valve 800 may include one or more seals 836 coupled to the piston 834 for sealingly engaging the body 802 or the surface 826. Similarly, the valve 800 may include one or more seals 840 for sealing engagement of the sleeve 832 (e.g., an outer surface 842 of the sleeve 832) and the body 802 (e.g., an inner surface 844 of one or more support members 828, 830). For illustrative purposes, as shown in FIG. Figure 15-17 As shown, one or more of the seals 836, 840 can be or include an annular elastomeric seal, such as an O-ring, but this need not be the case, and alternatively or collectively, depending on the particular embodiment of the present disclosure, the seals 836, 840 can be or include any type of seal having any cross-sectional shape, including elastic, non-elastic, dynamic and other seals. For example, in at least one embodiment, one or more of the seals 836, 840 can be or include a diaphragm seal, such as a rolling diaphragm seal (see, for example, Figure 7 ).

[0066] The valve 800 may include one or more chambers 848, such as cavities, compartments, or spaces, for supporting movement of one or more valve components, such as the valve member 820, and cooperation between one or more valve components, such as the valve member 820 and one or more components of the actuator assembly 816 (described further below) during valve operation. For example, the valve 800 may include a chamber 848a for temporarily or otherwise receiving at least a portion of the valve member 820 (e.g., at least a portion of the sleeve 832), such as when the valve member 820 is in one or more positions, which may include one or more closed positions (e.g., see Fig.15 ), transition positions (see for example Fig.16 ) and open position (see e.g. Fig.17 ), but not necessarily all positions. The valve 800 may include one or more chambers 848b, 848c for accommodating or otherwise supporting one or more components of the actuator assembly 816 (described further below). For example, chamber 848b may be disposed on one side of the piston 834 and configured to accommodate one or more components that cooperate with the piston 834 or the side of the valve member 820, and chamber 848c may be disposed on the other side of the piston 834 and configured to accommodate one or more components that cooperate with the other side of the piston 834 or the valve member 820. One or more of the chambers 848b, 848c may be fully or partially separated from the flow channel 808 fluid (e.g., by one or more seals described above), and in at least one embodiment, may be in fluid communication with at least a portion of the actuator housing 817. During valve operation, the internal volume of the chambers 848b, 848c may change as the piston 834 moves.

[0067] The actuator assembly 816 may include a pilot actuator 818, such as a two-way, three-way or other solenoid-operated pilot valve, in fluid communication with at least a portion of the flow passage 808 and the chamber 848c of the valve body 802. For example, the body 802 may include one or more pilot flow passages 803 in fluid communication with the actuator 818, such as a pilot flow passage 803a between the actuator 818 and the flow passage 808, which may include a portion 808a of the flow passage 808 fluidly upstream of the valve member 820 or the piston 834, and a flow passage 803b between the actuator 818 and the chamber 848c, which may be or include a piston bore or piston bore volume. The actuator 818 may include one or more valve members 818a, such as a pilot valve member, for selectively sealing engagement with one or more pilot holes 805 (which may include one or more seats 807) to control fluid flow along the flow passage 803. When actuated, the actuator 818 can separate the valve member 818a from the pilot hole 805, and the fluid F can flow from the flow channel 808 through the flow channel 803 to the chamber 848c and contact the valve member 820 or a portion thereof, such as the piston 834 (see Fig.16 ). Fluid pressure from fluid F can overcome the force of one or more biasing devices such as return spring 860 to move valve member 820 out of sealing engagement with seat 822 (e.g., as Fig.16 Fluid F from chamber 848c can flow out of chamber 848c and return to flow path 808 via one or more relief passages 809, which can be or include one or more flow paths in fluid communication with chamber 848c and orifice 810, or another portion of valve flow path 808 fluidly downstream of piston 834. For purposes of illustration, Figure 15-17 808, the relief passage 809 may be or include one or more relief gaps between the valve member 820 and the body 802 or a portion thereof. However, this need not be the case, and alternatively or in combination, the relief passage 809 may be or include one or more flow paths (e.g., similar to a flow path) formed in a portion of the body 802 or otherwise directed between the chamber 848c and the flow passage 808. Figure 15-17805). The pilot flow passage 803a is an exemplary form of the pilot flow passage 803a shown. Fluid F can flow into the chamber 848c at a faster or greater flow rate than fluid F flows out of the flow chamber 848c, for maintaining the valve member 820 in one or more open positions. For example, the pilot flow passage 803 can have a larger flow area or flow volume than the bleed passage 809. To close the valve 800, the actuator 818 can sealingly engage the seat 807 to at least partially prevent fluid from flowing through the pilot hole 805, the force exerted on the piston 834 by the fluid F in the chamber 848c can be reduced, and the restoring force or other force from the spring 860 can move the valve member 820 toward or to one or more closed positions, which can include a fully closed position in which the valve member 820 is sealingly coupled to the seat 822 in a fluid-tight engagement.

[0068] Continue to refer to the attached drawings, specifically refer to Figure 18-20 , another of the many embodiments of valves according to the present disclosure will be described. Valve 900 can function in a similar manner to one or more other valve embodiments of the present disclosure, including but not limited to valve 800, and one or more identical or similar components described elsewhere herein may appear with the same reference numerals and need not be described in detail again here. Valve 900 can differ from valve 800, for example, in that it can have a different actuator assembly 916, which can include a different solenoid pilot actuator 918 and one or more other valve components for cooperating therewith, which can be similar to those described above with respect to other valve embodiments, but can still differ in one or more aspects. Fig.18 , 19 20 show the valve 900 in the closed, transitional, and open positions, respectively. Although for illustrative purposes, the valve 900 is shown in a normally closed configuration with a single valve member 920, this need not be the case. For example, in at least one embodiment, the valve 900 can also be a normally open valve; as other examples, in one or more embodiments, the valve 900 can have multiple valve members 920 and / or multiple actuators 918 that can move in the same or different directions.

[0069] In at least one embodiment, valve 900 may include a pilot actuator 918, and may have an actuator housing 917, a valve member 920, and a body 902 for cooperating with the actuator 918 to open and close the valve 900, which may include moving the valve member 920 in one or more directions by the pressure of a fluid 901 within or flowing through at least a portion of a flow passage 908 of the valve 900. Thus, valve 900 may be similar to valve 800 described above in many respects, but may differ, for example, actuator 918 may be or include a three-way electromagnetic pilot (also referred to as a 3 / 2 pilot), rather than the exemplary two-way pilot (or 2 / 2 pilot) of valve 800, and one or more other valve components such as body 902 may be configured to cooperate with actuator 918 accordingly. For example, the body 902 may include one or more pilot flow passages 903 in fluid communication with the actuator 918, such as the pilot flow passage 903a between the actuator 918 and the flow passage 908, which may include a portion 908a of the flow passage 908 fluidly upstream of the valve member 920 or the piston 934, and a flow passage 903b between the actuator 918 and the chamber 948c, which may be or include a piston bore or piston bore volume. In at least one embodiment, the body 902 may also include one or more bleed passages 909, which may be or include one or more flow paths in fluid communication with the chamber 948c and another portion of the valve flow path 908 fluidly downstream of the bore 910 or the piston 934. The bleed passage 909 may be in direct fluid communication with the chamber 948c, or as described above, the bleed passages ... Figure 18-20 As shown in the exemplary embodiment of (which is just one of many embodiments), it can be in fluid communication with one or more bleed chambers 948d that are in fluid communication with chamber 948c, or both.

[0070] The actuator 918 may include one or more actuator valve members 918a, 918b for optionally sealingly engaging one or more pilot holes 905a, 905b (which may include one or more seats 907a, 907b) to control the flow of fluid along the flow channel 903 and the discharge channel 909. The actuator 918 may move the actuator valve members 918a, 918b independently or collectively depending on the construction or application of the specific embodiment of the present disclosure. When actuated, the actuator 918 may separate the valve member 918a from the pilot hole 905a, and the fluid F may flow from the flow channel 908 through the flow channels 903a, 903b to the chamber 948c and contact the valve member 920 or a portion thereof, such as the piston 934 (see Fig.18). At the same time, or at another time, the actuator 918 may couple the valve member 918b with the pilot hole 905b or the seat 907b and may completely or partially prevent the fluid F from flowing from the chambers 948c, 948d through the hole 905b to the bleed passage 909 and back to the flow passage 908. The fluid pressure from the fluid F may overcome one or more biasing devices such as a return spring 960 (see Fig.19 ) to move the valve member 920 out of sealing engagement with the valve seat 922 (e.g., Fig.18 When the valve 900 is closed, the actuator 918 can couple the valve member 918a with the pilot hole 905a via the seat 907a, and can separate the valve member 918b from the pilot hole 905b, and can at least partially prevent the fluid F from flowing into the chamber 948c, and allow the fluid F to flow from the chambers 948c, 948d through the relief passage 909 and return to the flow passage 908. Therefore, the force exerted on the piston 934 by the fluid F in the chamber 948c can be reduced, and the restoring force or other force from the spring 960 can move the valve member 920 toward or to one or more closed positions, which can include a fully closed position, in which the valve member 920 is sealingly coupled with the seat 922 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow channel therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, which fluid inlet and fluid outlet may include an inlet and outlet coaxial about a central longitudinal axis and / or other positions along a valve flow path coaxial about the axis; a valve seat fluidly disposed in the valve flow channel between the inlet and the outlet; a valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to optionally couple with the valve seat to restrict or prevent fluid flow through the valve; a biasing device configured to bias the valve member in one or more longitudinal or other directions, which may include sealing engagement with or disengagement from the valve seat, or toward or away from sealing engagement with the valve seat; and an actuator assembly configured to optionally move the valve member in one or more longitudinal directions, which may include a direction opposite to or different from the first or other longitudinal direction, and sealing engagement with or disengagement from the valve seat, or toward or away from sealing engagement with the valve seat. The actuator assembly may include at least one of an electro-hydraulic actuator, an electromechanical actuator, a pump, an electric motor, a stepper motor, a gearbox, an electromagnet, a solenoid, a pilot valve, and combinations thereof.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more additional valve members, such as a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body, and a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member into or out of sealing engagement with the valve seat. The actuator assembly can be configured to selectively move the second valve member into or out of sealing engagement with the valve seat, and the valve seat can include the same or different valve seats. In at least one embodiment, the first valve member can be configured to couple to an upstream side of the valve seat, and the second valve member can be configured to couple to a downstream side of the valve seat. The actuator assembly can be configured to selectively move the second valve member in one or more directions.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve members can be configured to be coupled to the same side of the valve seat, and the actuator assembly can be configured to optionally move the valve members in one or more directions. In at least one embodiment, the second valve member can be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first valve member can be disposed within the second valve member. The second valve member can be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first valve member and at least a portion of the second valve member can be concentric. In at least one embodiment, the upstream and downstream sides of the valve seat can be disposed within one or more holes, which can include a single hole. In at least one embodiment, the upstream and downstream sides of the valve seat can be opposite sides of an integral valve seat member or multiple valve seat members.

[0074] The valve member may include a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed in a chamber of the valve body, and the actuator assembly may be configured to move the valve member in one or more directions, such as a longitudinal direction, via or by a pressurized fluid. In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly may include one or more pumps configured to pump one or more working fluids into one or more chambers. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more pilot flow channels fluidly connected to the valve flow channel and one or more chambers, and the actuator assembly may include a pilot valve member configured to be coupled to a valve seat disposed in the pilot flow channel. The valve member may include a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed in a chamber of the valve body. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include one or more bleed holes fluidly connected to one or more chambers and the valve flow channel.

[0075] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow channel therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet may be coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow channel between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to be optionally coupled to the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to be optionally coupled to the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and is configured to optionally move the first and second valve members out of sealing engagement with the valve seats.

[0076] In at least one embodiment, the valve can include a first actuator configured to move the first valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second actuator configured to move the second valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat. The first valve member can be configured to couple with an upstream side of the valve seat and the second valve member can be configured to couple with a downstream side of the valve seat. In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve members can be configured to couple with the same or different sides of one or more valve seats.

[0077] One or more valve members may include an at least partially tubular sleeve that may constitute at least a portion of one or more valve flow passages. The biasing device may be configured to bias the valve member in a first longitudinal direction, and the other biasing device may be configured to bias the other valve member in one or more directions, which may be the same as or different from the first longitudinal direction. In at least one embodiment, the first biasing device may be configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction, and the second biasing device may be configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction that may be opposite to the first longitudinal direction.

[0078] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat being fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a spring configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes a pump in fluid communication with a reservoir of a working fluid, and a control valve fluidly between the reservoir and a chamber of the valve body, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the valve member in the second longitudinal direction by pumping the working fluid into the chamber. The first valve member may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0079] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a spring, configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes a motor, a gear, and a lead screw, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the valve member in the second longitudinal direction by rotating the lead screw. The first valve member may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0080] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a spring, which is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite to the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes an actuator configured to move the valve member, and a coupler that releasably couples the valve member to at least a portion of the actuator, and wherein the coupler is configured to disengage the valve member from the actuator when an event occurs. In at least one embodiment, the event may be a loss of power or a reduction in power. In at least one embodiment, the coupler may be or include one or more electromagnets. The first valve member may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0081] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively move the first valve member in the second longitudinal direction and move the second valve member in the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes one or more pumps in fluid communication with one or more working fluid reservoirs, and one or more control valves fluidly between the one or more reservoirs and one or more chambers of the valve body. The first and second valve members may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0082] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively move the first valve member in the second longitudinal direction and move the second valve member in the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes one or more motors, one or more gears, and one or more lead screws, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the valve members by rotating the one or more lead screws. The first and second valve members may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0083] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first valve member in the second longitudinal direction and move the second valve member in the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes one or more solenoid actuators and one or more coils, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the valve members by energizing and / or de-energizing the one or more coils. The first and second valve members may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.

[0084] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat, which is fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a first biasing device, which is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; a second valve member, which is slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a second biasing device, which is configured to bias the second valve member in the first longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly, which is coupled to the valve body and is configured to selectively move the first and second valve members in a second longitudinal direction, wherein each of the first and second valve members is configured to couple to the same side of the valve seat, wherein the actuator assembly, alone or in combination, in whole or in part, includes any of the actuator assemblies or actuator assembly components disclosed herein. The first and second valve members may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both.The first and second valve members may be configured to couple with an upstream side of the valve seat, a downstream side of the valve seat, or both, or a combination thereof.

[0085] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat being fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; a spring configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction; and an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite the first longitudinal direction, wherein the actuator assembly includes an electromagnetic pilot actuator, one or more pilot flow passages, one or more pilot valve members, one or more pilot holes, and one or more bleed passages, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the valve member in the second longitudinal direction by selectively directing and directing fluid from the valve flow passage into and out of a chamber in fluid communication with at least a portion of the valve member. The first valve member may be biased toward the valve seat, away from the valve seat, or both. The actuator assembly may include a plurality of pilot valve members and pilot holes. The valve may include one or more bleed passages in fluid communication with the valve hole. The actuator assembly may include one or more 2 / 2 guides. The actuator assembly may include one or more 3 / 2 guides or other guides. The actuator assembly may include a second valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body, configured to be optionally coupled to the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve, and configured to move in one or more directions that are the same or different from the first valve member.

[0086] In at least one embodiment, a valve may include: a valve body; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet may be coaxial about a central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat fluidly disposed between the inlet and the outlet; a first piston sleeve slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body; a biasing device configured to bias the first piston sleeve in a first longitudinal direction; a first sealing member coupled to the first piston sleeve and configured to selectively couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve; and an actuator coupled to the valve body and configured to selectively move the first piston sleeve in a second longitudinal direction opposite to the first longitudinal direction to disengage the first sealing member from the valve seat and allow fluid to flow through the valve. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may include at least one of an electrohydraulic actuator, a pump, an electric motor, a stepper motor, a gearbox, an electromagnet, a solenoid, a pilot valve, and combinations thereof.

[0087] In at least one embodiment, the valve may include: a second stationary valve seat fluidly disposed between an inlet and an outlet; a second piston sleeve slidably and sealingly connected to the valve body; a second biasing device configured to bias the second piston sleeve in a second longitudinal direction; and a second sealing member connected to the second piston sleeve and configured to optionally couple with the second valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve, wherein the actuator may be configured to optionally move the second piston sleeve in a first longitudinal direction to disengage the second sealing member from the second valve seat.

[0088] In at least one embodiment, the second valve seat can be fluidly downstream of the first valve seat. In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve seats can be disposed within a single bore. In at least one embodiment, the first and second valve seats can be disposed on opposite sides of a single valve seat member, or can be or include separate valve seats or valve seat members. In at least one embodiment, the actuator can include a pump fluidly coupled to a first control valve in fluid communication with the first piston sleeve and a second control valve in fluid communication with the second piston sleeve. In at least one embodiment, the first piston sleeve can be coupled to the valve body with one or more rolling diaphragm seals.

[0089] In at least one embodiment, the valve may include: a second piston sleeve slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body; and a second sealing member coupled to the second piston sleeve and configured to optionally couple with the first valve seat to prevent fluid from flowing through the valve, wherein the actuator may be configured to optionally move the second piston sleeve in a second longitudinal direction to disengage the second sealing member from the first valve seat. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include a second biasing device configured to bias the piston sleeve in a first longitudinal direction. In at least one embodiment, the second piston sleeve may be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first piston sleeve may be disposed within the second piston sleeve. In at least one embodiment, the second piston sleeve may be at least partially tubular, and at least a portion of the first piston sleeve and at least a portion of the second piston sleeve may be concentric.

[0090] Without departing from the spirit of the applicant's disclosure, other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the systems and methods disclosed herein may be designed. For example, the systems and methods disclosed herein may be used alone, or form one or more parts of other valves, valve components, and / or fluid control systems. In addition, various methods and embodiments of valves may be included in combination with one another to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Discussions of singular elements may include plural elements, and vice versa. A reference to at least one item followed by a reference to that item may include one or more items. In addition, various aspects of the embodiments may be used in combination with one another to achieve the understanding objectives of the present disclosure.

[0091] Unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise", "include" and "have" (including variations and modifications thereof) should be understood to include at least the described elements or steps or groups of elements or steps or their equivalents, without excluding a greater number or any other elements or steps or groups of elements or steps or their equivalents. Equipment, devices and systems can be used in multiple directions and orientations. Unless otherwise specified, the order of steps can appear in multiple sequences. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interspersed with the described steps, and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can be embodied as separate components and / or can be combined into components with multiple functions. The term "fluid" used herein includes any substance or material that can flow, such as liquids, gases and combinations thereof (regardless of whether one or more solids or other non-fluids are present therein).

[0092] The embodiments have been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not every embodiment disclosed by the applicant is described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described embodiments may be made by those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the applicant's disclosure, but in accordance with patent law, the applicant intends to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that fall within the scope or range of equivalents of the claims.

Claims

1. A valve, comprising: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to couple with a valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a biasing device configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction and into sealing engagement with the valve seat; as well as an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite the first longitudinal direction and out of sealing engagement with the valve seat; The valve further comprises: a second valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body; and a second biasing device configured to bias the second valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the second valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat, Wherein, the first valve member is configured to be coupled to an upstream side of a valve seat, and wherein the second valve member is configured to be coupled to a downstream side of the valve seat.

2. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator assembly includes at least one of the following: an electro-hydraulic actuator, an electromechanical actuator, a pump, an electric motor, a stepper motor, a gearbox, an electromagnet, a solenoid, a pilot valve.

3. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The actuator assembly is configured to move the second valve member in a first longitudinal direction.

4. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The upstream side and the downstream side of the valve seat are disposed within a single bore.

5. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The upstream and downstream sides of the valve seat are opposite sides of the one-piece valve seat component.

6. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The first valve member includes a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed within a chamber of a valve body, and wherein the actuator assembly is configured to move the first valve member in a second longitudinal direction by a pressurized fluid.

7. The valve according to claim 6, wherein: The actuator assembly includes a pump configured to pump a working fluid into the chamber.

8. The valve of claim 6, further comprising a pilot flow channel in fluid communication with the valve flow channel and the chamber, and wherein: The actuator assembly includes a pilot valve member configured to couple with a valve seat disposed in a pilot flow passage.

9. The valve according to claim 1, wherein: The first valve member includes a piston coupled to a tubular sleeve and slidably disposed within a chamber of a valve body, and further includes a bleed hole in fluid communication with the chamber and a valve flow passage.

10. A valve, comprising: a valve body having a valve flow passage therethrough; a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, the fluid outlet being fluidly downstream of the fluid inlet, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis; a stationary valve seat fluidly disposed in the valve flow passage between the inlet and the outlet, the valve seat having an upstream side and a downstream side; a first valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to couple with a valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a first biasing device configured to bias the first valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; a second valve member slidably and sealingly coupled to the valve body and configured to couple with the valve seat to prevent fluid flow through the valve; a second biasing device configured to bias the second valve member into sealing engagement with the valve seat; as well as an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to move the first and second valve members out of sealing engagement with the valve seats; Wherein, the first valve member is configured to be coupled to an upstream side of a valve seat, and the second valve member is configured to be coupled to a downstream side of the valve seat.

11. The valve of claim 10, wherein the actuator assembly includes a first actuator configured to move the first valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat and a second actuator configured to move the second valve member out of sealing engagement with the valve seat.

12. The valve according to claim 10, wherein: Each of the first and second valve members includes a tubular sleeve that defines at least a portion of the valve flow passage.

13. The valve according to claim 10, wherein: The first biasing means is configured to bias the first valve member in a first longitudinal direction, and wherein the second biasing means is configured to bias the second valve member in a second longitudinal direction opposite to the first longitudinal direction.

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