Pre-assembled fixture with snap lock

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pre-assembled fixing device with snap lock, in particular a valve fixing device (30, 300) for fixing a solenoid valve (8, 12) to a valve block (4), comprising a plate body (34) having a vent opening (18) for allowing access to the solenoid valve (8, 12), at least a first leg (36) extending substantially perpendicularly from a first side (37) of the plate body (34), and at least a second leg (38) extending substantially perpendicularly from a second side (39) of the plate body (34) opposite to the first side (37), wherein the first leg (36) and the second leg (38) are configured to attach the solenoid valve (8, 12). According to the invention, the first leg (36) has a snap-fit element (40) configured to engage a corresponding snap-fit interface (52, 55) provided at a side (50, 54) of the valve block (4) when in the mounted state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a valve securing device for securing a solenoid valve to a valve assembly, particularly a valve assembly of an automatic transmission with manual mode. The securing device includes: a plate having an exhaust opening for allowing access to the solenoid valve; at least a first leg extending substantially perpendicularly from a first side of the plate; and at least a second leg extending substantially perpendicularly from a second side of the plate opposite to the first side, wherein the first and second legs are configured to attach the solenoid valve. Furthermore, this invention relates to solenoid valve assemblies including such valve securing devices, commercial vehicles including solenoid valve assemblies of the aforementioned type, and methods for installing such solenoid valve assemblies.

[0002] The valve assembly of the aforementioned type is used in automatic transmissions with manual mode in personal or commercial vehicles. The automatic transmission with manual mode can be automatic or semi-automatic and can be activated by different actuators. In this case, the automatic transmission with manual mode is activated by a solenoid valve arranged in the valve assembly. Background Technology

[0003] When installing these solenoid valves into the valve assembly, it is important to clamp them onto the assembly with the correct clamping force. Existing technology uses a mounting plate with a plate that screws onto the solenoid valve to secure it to the valve body. To limit the clamping force, a corresponding bushing is provided for each screw. In a typical arrangement, 5 to 8 solenoid valves (e.g., 7) can be arranged in a row, and a typical arrangement includes two such rows. To secure the solenoid valve to the valve assembly, at least one screw is provided for each solenoid valve. Therefore, if 14 solenoid valves are clamped onto the valve body, 28 screws are required. Thus, in the prior art, 28 bushings are also required, and each of these 28 screws must be screwed onto the valve assembly with the correct and appropriate clamping force.

[0004] A particular drawback of the prior art lies in the tolerance chain of each solenoid valve. Each solenoid valve and valve assembly has a tolerance, and a bushing is provided for each solenoid valve 2. Each bushing has a tolerance when seated on the valve assembly, and a second tolerance exists between the bushing and the plate. Then, yet another tolerance exists between the corresponding screw and the valve body, which in general can lead to different clamping forces between different solenoid valves, even when the same torque is used.

[0005] EP 20196179.4, incorporated herein by reference, discloses a valve mounting device for a group of solenoid valves that provides a simplified installation process and a reduced tolerance chain. However, a simplified installation process is still needed. Known valve mounting devices must be securely attached to the valve body via threaded screws to allow for the brazing of, for example, flexible foil sheets to the solenoid valves. Therefore, subsequent attachment of other components to the plate requires disassembly of the threaded screws that engage the valve mounting device between the first and second legs of the plate. In some cases, when the threaded screws are removed, the group of solenoid valves is secured to the valve assembly by clamping force. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Furthermore, one of the objectives of this invention is to provide a simpler valve assembly having means for mounting the solenoid valve, while providing easier access to braze the flexible foil to the joint of the solenoid valve.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, this problem is solved by a valve fixing device having the features of the invention. Specifically, the first leg has a snap-fit ​​element configured to engage a corresponding snap-fit ​​interface when in the installed state, wherein the snap-fit ​​interface is located on a side of the valve assembly that extends substantially parallel to the first leg when in the installed state.

[0008] According to the exemplary description, by providing the valve retaining device according to the invention, the electrical connector is more easily accessible from the outside when it protrudes outward from the plate (see, for example, element "18" in the figures). Those skilled in the art will understand that this access to the electrical connector protruding outside the plate facilitates an easier soldering process to attach a flexible foil extending from a printed circuit board (PCB) used in gearbox actuators or transmission actuators.

[0009] It should be understood that, in the installed state, at least one solenoid valve, valve fixing device and valve assembly are pre-assembled, and the snap-fit ​​connection is provided by the snap-fit ​​interface of the valve assembly and the snap-fit ​​element of the first leg.

[0010] Within the scope of this invention, a valve fixing device is provided for each solenoid valve in a solenoid valve assembly, or for multiple solenoid valves (e.g., a row of solenoid valves). If a single valve fixing device is provided for multiple solenoid valves, it can be proposed to provide a corresponding pair of first and second legs for each solenoid valve, or to provide only one, two, three, or four pairs of first and second legs in total. Preferably, the first and second legs are parallel to each other and therefore perpendicular to the generally plate-like body. Preferably, each leg is generally straight and arranged such that the clamping force is parallel to the direction in which the first and second legs extend.

[0011] The first length of the first leg and the second length of the second leg are preferably measured relative to and perpendicular to the plate. The first and second lengths of the first and second legs define the distance between the plate and the valve assembly.

[0012] Preferably, the first leg and the second leg extend substantially entirely along the first and second sides of the plate, respectively. Therefore, the first leg and / or the second leg preferably extend along the entire width of the plate. The solenoid valves are preferably arranged in a row, and the plate covers all the solenoid valves. Therefore, the width direction of the plate is the direction in which these solenoid valves are aligned. Therefore, the first leg and the second leg preferably extend along the entire row of solenoid valves, each leg located on one side of a solenoid valve. Alternatively, it may be proposed to provide only two pairs of first and second legs, in which case they are preferably arranged at the end portions of the plate in the width direction.

[0013] Further preferably, the first and second legs are integrally formed with the plate body. This reduces the number of parts and thus greatly simplifies the installation process. Furthermore, the integrally formed valve retainer reduces the risk of unwanted breakage along the mounting interface.

[0014] In this context, the term "integrally formed" can mean that the first and second legs are attached to the plate body by means of welding, gluing, or brazing, for example, but preferably means that the plate body and the first and / or second legs are made as a single piece and formed as a one-piece construction. Preferably, the plate body, the first leg, and the second leg are formed from a single sheet of metal by bending. The sheet metal forming the plate body, the first leg, and the second leg is initially flat, and then the first and second legs are bent to their final directions from a first and a second side of this sheet metal. This achieves a simple manufacturing process, reliably avoids at least one of the tolerances, and achieves a rigid, integral construction.

[0015] The metal is preferably steel, especially low-carbon steel that provides sufficient rigidity and elasticity. Also within the scope of this invention, the valve fixing device is formed of a polymer, a composite material, or a mixture thereof.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit ​​interface is formed as a protrusion that extends from the side of the valve assembly, and the first leg is configured to bend outward as it moves along the protrusion and then spring back, such that the snap-fit ​​element engages the protrusion in the installed state. This achieves an intuitive and simplified installation because the snap-fit ​​element is first guided along the side of the valve assembly and then springs back to engage the recess in the installed state.

[0017] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​element is formed as a recess in the corresponding first leg of the valve retaining device. This recess can be located anywhere in the first leg and has any shape and size sufficient to at least partially receive the protrusion in the installed state. Due to its simplicity of manufacture, the snap-fit ​​interface formed as a recess achieves low manufacturing costs.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment, the snap-fit ​​interface is formed as a recess in a corresponding side of the valve assembly, and the first leg having the snap-fit ​​element is configured to at least partially bend outward as it moves along said side of the valve assembly, and then spring back, such that the snap-fit ​​element engages the recess in the installed state. As described above, the recess is easy to manufacture, and therefore low manufacturing costs can be achieved. Furthermore, intuitive and simplified installation can be achieved.

[0019] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​element is formed as a protrusion that extends from the first leg to the opposite side of the plate. It should be understood that by protruding from the first leg to the opposite side of the plate, this protrusion will face the side of the valve body in the installed state. Therefore, in the installed state, the protrusion can easily engage the recess or the corresponding protrusion. When the valve retaining device is moved to the installed state along the side of the body, the first leg will preferably bend outwards before it springs back and the protrusion engages the corresponding snap-fit ​​interface.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment, the snap-fit ​​element is a first snap-fit ​​element disposed at the first leg, and the snap-fit ​​interface is a first snap-fit ​​interface disposed at the first side of the valve assembly. The second leg has a second snap-fit ​​element configured to engage a corresponding second snap-fit ​​interface when in the installed state. This second snap-fit ​​interface is disposed on the second side of the valve assembly opposite to the first side. Therefore, the fixation of the solenoid valve and the application of force between the valve fixing device and the valve assembly are more uniform.

[0021] Preferably, the first leg has a first length, and the second leg has a second length for attaching the solenoid valve. Preferably, the first leg includes a first abutment surface for abutting against the valve assembly when in the installed state, and the second solenoid valve includes a second abutment surface for abutting against the valve assembly when in the installed state. Therefore, when the plate is fixed to the valve assembly, the first length of the first leg and the second length of the second leg form a stop for the plate, and thus also limit the force with which the solenoid valve is clamped onto the valve assembly. If a third leg, fourth leg, etc., are provided, their respective lengths are preferably set accordingly.

[0022] Preferably, the valve assembly has a first stop corresponding to the first abutment surface and disposed on a first side of the valve assembly, and the valve assembly further has a second stop corresponding to the second abutment surface and disposed on a second side of the valve assembly. The first stop is configured to receive the first abutment surface, and the second stop is configured to receive the second abutment surface. Therefore, the positioning of the valve fixing device is predefined, and the force exerted by the valve fixing device on the solenoid valve is limited.

[0023] Preferably, the plate body, the first leg, and the second leg are formed from a single metal plate by bending. The metal plate forming the plate body, the first leg, and the second leg is initially flattened, and then a first side and a second side of this metal plate are formed, with the first leg and the second leg bent to their final directions. This achieves a simple manufacturing process, reliably avoids at least one of the tolerances, and also achieves a rigid, integral construction.

[0024] Further preferably, the plate includes spring-biased tabs for contacting the solenoid valve. Particularly preferably, the plate includes at least two spring-biased tabs. One or more tabs can help maintain the clamping force within a predetermined range so as not to exceed the desired clamping force. These one or more tabs can be integrally formed with the plate, preferably by punching. The entire valve retaining device can be formed by punching and bending. These one or more tabs are preferably arranged adjacent to the opening.

[0025] Further, preferably, the valve retaining device includes at least one through-hole for receiving a screw for screwing the valve retaining device onto the valve assembly. This through-hole can be located anywhere, particularly in the plate, the first leg, or the second leg. If the through-hole is located in the first or second leg, then the first and / or second leg preferably have corresponding threaded tabs or threaded tongues that attach to and protrude from the first and / or second leg.

[0026] Preferably, multiple through holes are provided for the multiple screws. Preferably, at least four of these through holes are configured to provide a clamping force that is substantially uniformly distributed on the plate.

[0027] Preferably, the multiple through holes are arranged in the plate body such that the through holes are located between the first leg and the second leg. Due to this arrangement, the first and second legs can protect the screw that passes through the through holes, and thus further secure the device. Furthermore, this prevents maintenance personnel from accessing the screw and / or the solenoid valve. Therefore, safety is also improved, and the solenoid valve is also better protected from environmental influences by the first and second legs.

[0028] According to a preferred embodiment of the solenoid valve assembly, the valve group includes a first guide for receiving the first leg and a second guide for receiving the second leg. The first and second guides preferably have machined contact surfaces within tolerances for receiving the first and second legs. Furthermore, the first and second guides preferably provide lateral support for the first and second legs, preventing lateral movement of the first and second legs. The first and second guides in the valve group can be formed as recesses, grooves, slots, etc.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the invention, the above-mentioned problem is solved by a solenoid valve assembly for a manual-automatic transmission, the solenoid valve assembly comprising: a valve group having a snap-fit ​​interface; a plurality of solenoid valves received in corresponding recesses of the valve group; and at least one valve fixing device according to the foregoing description, the at least one valve fixing device being attached to the valve group by a snap-fit ​​connection between a snap-fit ​​element and a corresponding snap-fit ​​interface, wherein the snap-fit ​​interface is disposed on a side of the valve group, which, when in the installed state, extends substantially parallel to a corresponding first leg of the valve fixing device.

[0030] It should be understood that the valve fixing device according to the first aspect of the invention and the solenoid valve assembly according to the second aspect of the invention have similar and identical preferred embodiments. Reference has been made to the foregoing description of the first aspect of the invention, and the preferred features and benefits are fully incorporated herein.

[0031] The valve assembly is preferably formed as a cast part or from a plastic material. It includes corresponding channels and conduits that are configured to communicate with the solenoid valves. Furthermore, the valve assembly may include an interface for attaching the solenoid valve assembly to the vehicle body or frame, and may also include an interface for supplying power to the solenoid valves. Typically, the valve assembly includes two rows of solenoid valves, with only one row described herein. However, it should be understood that when the valve assembly includes two rows of solenoid valves, the solenoid valve assembly may also include a second valve retainer of the aforementioned type, which cooperates with the second row of solenoid valves received in a corresponding second row recess within the valve assembly.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the snap-fit ​​interface is formed as a protrusion that is inclined relative to and protrudes from the corresponding side of the valve assembly, such that the corresponding first leg with the snap-fit ​​element initially bends outward in a continuously increasing manner as it moves along the protrusion, and then springs back, causing the snap-fit ​​element to engage the protrusion in the installed state. Therefore, when in the installed state, the protrusion protrudes into the corresponding one of the first or second legs with the snap-fit ​​element. Compared to a sudden and rapid bending of the legs, the possibility of breakage is reduced and the service life of the valve retaining device is extended by causing the first leg to bend in a continuously increasing manner due to the inclination of the protrusion.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment, the valve assembly includes a plurality of threaded holes corresponding to the plurality of through holes in the plate body for receiving a screw disposed through the through holes.

[0034] According to a third aspect of the invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a commercial vehicle comprising a solenoid valve assembly of any of the foregoing embodiments of the solenoid valve assembly according to a second aspect of the invention. Such a commercial vehicle preferably includes a manual-automatic transmission, a pneumatic braking system, and a pressurized air source.

[0035] It should be understood that the commercial vehicle according to the third aspect of the invention, the solenoid valve assembly according to the second aspect of the invention, and the valve fixing device according to the first aspect of the invention include similar and identical embodiments. Reference has been made up to the above description of the valve fixing device according to the first aspect of the invention and the solenoid valve assembly according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0036] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a method for mounting a solenoid valve assembly according to the second aspect, the method comprising the steps of: arranging at least one of a plurality of solenoid valves in a recess of a valve assembly; securing the solenoid valves to the valve assembly by a valve fixing device according to the first aspect; brazing a flexible foil to the solenoid valves; and securely attaching the solenoid valves to the valve assembly through a plurality of threaded holes corresponding to a plurality of through holes in the plate body for receiving screws disposed through the through holes. It should be understood that the method for mounting the solenoid valve assembly and the valve assembly according to the second aspect of the invention have similar and identical preferred embodiments. Reference has been made up to the above description of the second aspect of the invention, and preferred features and benefits are fully incorporated herein.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the method further includes the step of mounting functional components to a plate before the solenoid valve is securely attached to the valve body via a plurality of screws engaging threaded holes. In this context, the term "functional component" refers to any component that incorporates any additional functionality related to the solenoid valve assembly. Examples of such functional components are reinforcing plates for increasing the rigidity of the plate, air shields for preventing air from escaping the solenoid valve, and protective plates for protecting the flexible foil brazed to the solenoid valve. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To gain a more complete understanding of the invention, it will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed description will illustrate and describe what is considered to be the preferred embodiment of the invention. Of course, it should be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail can be readily made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the precise forms and details shown and described herein, nor to the entire invention disclosed herein and claimed below. Furthermore, the features described in the specification and drawings of the invention may be necessary for the invention to be considered individually or in combination. The word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps. The word "a" does not exclude a plurality. The word "a plurality" includes one, i.e., a single item, as well as other quantities, such as two, three, four, etc. In the drawings: Figure 1 A solenoid valve assembly according to the prior art is shown; Figure 2 Shown in exploded view Figure 1 Solenoid valve assembly; Figure 3 A first embodiment of the valve fixing device according to the present invention is shown in a perspective view; Figure 4 A perspective view is shown of the valve assembly and solenoid valve according to the present invention; Figure 5 A side view shows the valve assembly according to the first preferred embodiment in a first position; Figure 6 The side view shows the second position according to Figure 5 Valve assembly; Figure 7 The cross-sectional view shows the basis in the third position. Figure 5 Valve assembly; Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the valve assembly according to the second preferred embodiment is shown; Figure 9 A three-dimensional diagram is shown based on Figure 8 Valve assembly; Figure 10 A cross-sectional view is shown of the valve assembly according to the third preferred embodiment; and Figure 11A second embodiment of the valve fixing device according to the present invention is shown in perspective. Detailed Implementation

[0039] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A solenoid valve assembly 1 with a valve fixing device 2 according to the prior art is described. The solenoid valve assembly 1 according to the prior art includes a valve group 4 having a first row of 6 solenoid valves 8 and a second row of 10 solenoid valves 12. The first row of 6 solenoid valves 8 and the second row of 10 solenoid valves 12 are arranged on opposite sides of the valve body 4 and are located in corresponding recesses of the valve body 4.

[0040] exist Figure 2 The exact arrangement can be seen better in the diagram. The valve body 4 is shown in a 3D view, and seven solenoid valves 8 can be seen arranged therein. Each solenoid valve 8 includes an electrical terminal 14, which... Figure 2 The solenoid valve 8 is shown in the diagram. The solenoid valve 8 is located in the valve assembly 4. A valve retaining device 2 is provided to clamp the solenoid valve 8 in the first row 6 onto the valve body 4. The valve retaining device 2 includes a plate 16 with a vent opening 18 through which electrical terminals 14 can be accessed. The plate 16 further includes a plurality of through holes 20 (only one through hole is shown by reference numeral), which are configured to receive corresponding screws 22 (again, only one screw is shown by reference numeral), which can be positioned through the through holes 20 and screwed into corresponding (not shown) threaded holes in the valve assembly 4. To limit the clamping force, each screw 22 is provided with a corresponding bushing 24 (in... Figure 2 (Only one bushing is shown again with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings), which is positioned between plate 16 and valve assembly 4. Each screw 22 extends through the corresponding bushing 24 and is screwed into valve assembly 4 with the corresponding port value.

[0041] The disadvantage here is that, during installation, each of the screws and each of the bushings 24 must be aligned. In the illustrated embodiment, for the first row 6, 14 screws 22 and 14 bushings 24 are used. For the second row 10 ( Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) Fourteen screws 22 and fourteen bushings 24 are used again. All these bushings 24 need to be mounted on the corresponding screws 22 and properly positioned between the plate 16 and the valve assembly 4. Each of the bushings 24 has two opposing surfaces, one abutting against the valve assembly 4 and the other against the plate 16. Therefore, corresponding tolerances are necessary between the bushings 24 and the plate 16, and between the bushings 24 and the valve assembly 4, which complicates manufacturing. More importantly, each of the bushings 24 needs to be properly manufactured and procured, and also needs to be disposed of during installation.

[0042] In the following text, similar and identical elements are identified by the same reference numerals as previously used. Reference has also been made to the prior art description.

[0043] Figure 3 A valve fixing device 30 according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. The valve fixing device 30 has a plate 34 having a first leg 36 disposed on a first side 37 of the plate and a second leg 38 disposed on a second side 39 of the plate.

[0044] The first leg 36 has a plurality of first snap-fit ​​elements 40. More preferably, the second leg 38 has a plurality of second snap-fit ​​elements 42.

[0045] The valve fixing device 30 has an exhaust opening 18 and a plurality of through holes 20 provided in the plate 34 (only one is shown with reference numerals).

[0046] At the edge of the exhaust opening 18, a first protrusion 44 and a second protrusion 46 are provided. The first protrusion and the second protrusion abut against the upper part of the solenoid valve 8 or against the electrical terminal 14 provided on the top of the solenoid valve 8 (see...). Figures 5 to 7 This pushes the solenoid valve 8 into the valve assembly 4. The tabs 44 and 46 are spring-biased and can therefore be slightly deflected outward to compensate for excessive clamping force.

[0047] The first snap-fit ​​element 40 and the second snap-fit ​​element 42 are defined to extend through the recesses of the corresponding legs 36, 38.

[0048] The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 extend substantially perpendicular to the plate 34 and are substantially parallel to each other.

[0049] The first snap-fit ​​element 40 and the second snap-fit ​​element 42 are arranged symmetrically to each other.

[0050] The through holes 20 are evenly distributed on the plate 34, such that a single through hole 20 is located at each corner of the rectangular plate 34.

[0051] like Figure 4 As shown, the solenoid valve 8 is arranged in a recess 47 provided in the valve assembly 4. The valve assembly 4 has a plurality of threaded holes 48 (only one is shown with reference numerals).

[0052] The valve assembly 4 has a first side 50 and a second side 54 opposite to the first side 50. The first side has a first snap-fit ​​interface 52, and the second side has a second snap-fit ​​interface 55 (not shown).

[0053] The first snap-fit ​​element 52 is formed as a protrusion that protrudes from the first side portion 50 and is inclined relative to the first side portion. A second snap-fit ​​element 55 is correspondingly formed. Thus, the protrusions 52 and 55 are configured to guide the corresponding legs 36 and 38 of the valve fixing device 30 when moving along the first side portion 50 and the second side portion 54, so as to attach the valve fixing device 30 to the valve assembly 4 (see [link to valve assembly 4]) in the installed state. Figures 5 to 7 ).

[0054] Figures 5 to 7 A valve assembly 32 according to a first preferred embodiment is depicted, the valve assembly having, according to Figure 4 Valve group 4 and according to Figure 3 Valve fixing device 30.

[0055] Figure 5 The valve fixing device 30 is shown in the first position relative to the valve assembly 4.

[0056] The first leg 36 is guided by a first side portion 50, which extends substantially parallel to the extension of the first leg 36. The second leg 38 is guided by a second side portion 54, which also extends substantially parallel to the second leg 38.

[0057] Figure 6 A valve retaining device 30 is depicted in a second position relative to the valve assembly 4. In this second position, the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 are bent outwards by corresponding inclined first protrusions 52 and 55. It should be understood that during movement of the valve retaining device 30 relative to the valve assembly, the first leg 36 bends outwards in a continuously increasing manner as it moves along the first snap-fit ​​interface 52, which is formed as an inclined protrusion. The same applies to the second leg 38, which bends outwards in a continuously increasing manner as it moves along the second snap-fit ​​interface 55, which is formed as an inclined protrusion. When bending outwards, the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 no longer extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0058] Figure 7The valve assembly 32 in its installed state is depicted. The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 preferably abut against corresponding first and second sides 50 and 54 of the valve assembly 4. The first snap-fit ​​element 40 and the first snap-fit ​​interface 52 are engaged with each other via a snap-fit ​​connection. The second snap-fit ​​element 42 and the second snap-fit ​​interface 55 are engaged with each other via a snap-fit ​​connection. The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 extend substantially parallel to each other and parallel to the first and second sides 50 and 54 of the valve assembly 4. The first tab 44 and the second tab 46 abut against the upper part of the valve 8, particularly against the electrical terminal 14 located on the top of the solenoid valve 8, thereby pushing the valve 8 into the corresponding recess 47 of the valve assembly 4. Thus, when the valve retaining device 30 is attached to the valve assembly 4, the tabs 44, 46 restrict the axial movement of the valve 8 in the axial direction L (see...). Figure 10 ).like Figure 7 As further shown, the axial extensions of the first snap-fit ​​element 40 and the second snap-fit ​​element 42, defined by the recesses, extend beyond the axial extensions of the corresponding snap-fit ​​interfaces 52 and 55 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L (see [reference]). Figure 10 Therefore, a tolerance is provided between the valve retaining device 30 and the valve assembly 4, and thus the position of the valve 8 relative to the valve assembly 4 in the axial direction can be adjusted by pushing the valve retaining device 30 toward the valve assembly 4.

[0059] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A second preferred embodiment of the valve assembly 32 is shown. In this embodiment, the functional component 56 is mounted on the plate 34, thus pushing the valve retaining device 30 toward the valve assembly 4.

[0060] Functional component 56 may be a reinforcing plate configured to protect a flexible foil that is brazed to the top of valve 8, and in particular to electrical terminals 14 arranged on the top of valve 8.

[0061] Functional component 56 has a plurality of through holes 62 (only one is shown by reference numerals), which correspond to the number and size of through holes 20 provided in plate 34. Functional component 56 is attached to valve retaining device 30 and thus to valve assembly 4 by a plurality of screws 22 (only one screw is shown by reference numerals), which engage with the through holes 62 in functional component 56 (again, only one through hole is shown by reference numerals), the through holes 20 in plate 34, and the threaded holes 48 in valve assembly 4. To limit clamping force, each screw 22 may be provided with a corresponding bushing 24 (again, only one is shown).

[0062] Figure 10 Another preferred embodiment of the valve assembly 32 is shown. According to... Figure 9 Valve assembly 32 and Figures 5 to 7 and Figure 8The valve assembly 32 shown differs in that the first leg 36 has a first abutment surface 58 for abutting against the first stop 64 when in the installed state. The first abutment surface 58 is located at the first side 50 of the valve assembly 4.

[0063] The valve fixing device 30 further has a second abutment surface 60 disposed at the second leg 38 for abutting against the second stop 66 when in the installed state. The second abutment surface 60 is disposed at the second side 54 of the valve assembly 4.

[0064] Therefore, the solenoid valve 8 is protected from the unwanted clamping force exerted by the first tab 44 and the second tab 46 because the first abutment surface 58 and the second abutment surface 60 rest on the stops 64, 66.

[0065] Figure 11 Another preferred embodiment of the valve fixing device 300 is shown.

[0066] The valve fixing device 300 includes a plate 34 having a generally rectangular or trapezoidal longitudinal shape. The plate 34 includes a longitudinal axis L, which, when installed, is parallel to the first row of 6 solenoid valves 8 and the second row of 10 solenoid valves 12, as shown below. Figure 1 As shown. The plate 34 includes a plurality of vent openings 18, which are formed substantially according to the vent opening 18 in the first embodiment. However, the vent openings 18 depend particularly on the shape and type of the solenoid valves 8 and 12 used, and can be different for different solenoid valves incorporated (see...). Figure 1 ).

[0067] The valve fixing device 300 includes a first leg 36 and a second leg 38 extending from a plate 34. The first leg 36 is formed on a first side 37 of the plate, and the second leg 38 is formed on a second side 39 of the plate 34. It can be inferred that the plate 34, the first leg 36, and the second leg 38 are integrally formed and, in particular, made from a single sheet of metal, especially by bending. That is, the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 are configured to bend counterclockwise on the first side of the plate 34, wherein the bending axis is parallel to the longitudinal axis L. Both the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 extend substantially perpendicular to the plate 34 and are substantially parallel to each other.

[0068] The plate 34 has a width W along the longitudinal axis L. The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 extend over the entire width W of the plate 34. It is conceivable that the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 may also be shorter than the entire width W, or multiple pairs of first legs 36 and second legs 38 may be provided, for example, for each of the exhaust openings 18.

[0069] The first leg 36 has a plurality of first snap-fit ​​elements 40 (only one of the first snap-fit ​​elements is shown with reference numerals). More preferably, the second leg 38 has a plurality of second snap-fit ​​elements 42 (again, only one of the second snap-fit ​​elements is shown with reference numerals). The first snap-fit ​​elements 40 and the second snap-fit ​​elements 42 are configured to engage corresponding first snap-fit ​​interfaces 52 and second snap-fit ​​interfaces 55 in a manner described with respect to the first and second embodiments of the valve assembly 32.

[0070] The first leg 36 further includes a first abutment surface 58, and the second leg 38 includes a second abutment surface 60. When in the installed state, the first abutment surface 58 and the second abutment surface 60 can abut against a first stop and a second stop provided at the valve assembly 4 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 10 ).

[0071] In order to attach solenoid valves 8 and 12 to valve assembly 4, valve mounting device 300 is used to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 A similar arrangement is shown above solenoid valves 8 and 12. The first abutment surface 58 and the second abutment surface 60 can abut against valve assembly 4, and screw 22 must be aligned with... Figure 1 and Figure 9 A similar arrangement is shown, passing through the through-hole 20 and screwed into the corresponding threaded hole 48 provided in the valve assembly 4. The first abutment surface 58 and the second abutment surface 60 also extend over the entire width W, which is not mandatory, but it provides full contact between the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 and can compensate for some tolerances. Furthermore, since the first leg 36 and the second leg 38 are essentially plate-shaped, the rigidity of the entire valve mounting 300 is increased.

[0072] The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 have a first length L1 and a second length L2, respectively, which are set to limit the clamping force provided by the screw 22. The first leg 36 and the second leg 38 limit the extent to which the screw 22 can be screwed into the corresponding threaded hole 48, and thus limit the clamping force.

[0073] At the edge of the exhaust opening 18, a first tab 44 and a second tab 46 are provided, which push the solenoid valves 8 and 12 into the valve assembly 4. The tabs 44 and 46 are spring-biased and can therefore bend slightly outward.

[0074] Furthermore, a first mounting tongue 66 and a second mounting tongue 68 can be provided. When the valve fixing device 300 is seated on the solenoid valves 8 and 12, the first mounting tongue and the second mounting tongue engage the corresponding parts of the valve assembly and restrict the axial movement of the valve fixing device 300 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0075] List of reference numerals (part of this specification): 1. Solenoid valve assembly (prior art) 2. Valve fixing device (existing technology) 4 valve assembly 6 First row 8. Solenoid valves in the first row 10 Second row 12. Solenoid valves in the second row 14 electrical terminals 16 boards 18 Exhaust opening 20 through holes 22 screw 24 Bushing 30, 300 Valve Fixing Device (This Invention) 32. Solenoid valve assembly (this invention) 34 plate body 36 First leg 37 First side 38 Second leg 39 Second side 40 First snap-fit ​​component 42 Second snap-fit ​​component 44 First convex plate 46 Second convex plate 48 threaded hole 50 First side 52 First buckle mating interface 54 Second side 55 Second buckle mating interface 56 Functional Components 58 First contact surface 60 Second contact surface 62 First mounting tongue 64 Second mounting tongue L longitudinal axis L1 First Length L2 Second Length W represents the width.

Claims

1. A valve fixing device (30, 300) for fixing a solenoid valve (8, 12) to a valve assembly (4) for a manual-automatic transmission, said fixing device (30, 300) comprising: The plate (34) has an exhaust opening (18) for allowing access to the solenoid valves (8, 12). At least a first leg (36), said at least a first leg (36) extending substantially perpendicularly from a first side (37) of the plate (34); and At least a second leg (38), which extends substantially perpendicularly from the second side (39) of the plate (34) opposite to the first side (37). The first leg (36) and the second leg (38) are configured to be attached to the solenoid valves (8, 12). The first leg (36) has a snap-fit ​​element (40) configured to engage the corresponding snap-fit ​​interface (52, 55) when in the installation state. The snap-fit ​​interfaces (52, 55) are located on the side (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4). When in the installed state, the side (50, 54) extends substantially parallel to the first support leg (36). The plate includes at least two spring-biased tabs for contacting the solenoid valve; the at least two spring-biased tabs include a first tab and a second tab; and the first tab and the second tab are disposed at the edge of the exhaust opening, and the first tab and the second tab are configured to abut against the upper part of the solenoid valve or against an electrical terminal disposed on the top of the solenoid valve to push the solenoid valve into the valve assembly.

2. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1. in, The first leg (36) and the second leg (38) are integrally formed with the plate (34).

3. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The snap-fit ​​interfaces (52, 55) are formed as protrusions extending from the sides (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4), and The first leg (36) is configured to bend outward as it moves along the protrusion and then spring back, such that the snap-fit ​​element (40) engages the protrusion in the installed state.

4. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 3. in, The snap-fit ​​element (40) is formed as a recess in the corresponding first leg (36) of the valve fixing device (30, 300).

5. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The snap-fit ​​interfaces (52, 55) are formed as recesses in the corresponding sides (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4), and The first leg (36) having the snap-fit ​​element (40) is configured to at least partially bend outward and then spring back when moving along the side (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4), such that the snap-fit ​​element (40) engages the recess in the installed state.

6. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 3. in, The snap-fit ​​element (40) is formed as a protrusion from the first leg (36) to the opposite side (39) of the plate (34).

7. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The snap-fit ​​element is a first snap-fit ​​element located at the first support leg (36), and the snap-fit ​​interface is a first snap-fit ​​interface (52) located at the first side (50) of the valve assembly (4). The second leg (38) has a second snap-fit ​​element (42) configured to engage a corresponding second snap-fit ​​interface (55) when in the installed state. The second snap-fit ​​interface (55) is located on the second side (54) of the valve assembly (4) opposite to the first side (50).

8. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The first leg (36) has a first length (L1) and the second leg (38) has a second length (L2) for attaching the solenoid valves (8, 12), and The first leg (36) includes a first abutting surface (58) for abutting against the valve assembly (4) when in the installed state, and the second leg (38) includes a second abutting surface (60) for abutting against the valve assembly (4) when in the installed state.

9. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The plate (34), the first leg (36) and the second leg (38) are formed from a single metal plate by bending.

10. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. in, The first leg (36) and the second leg (38) extend substantially entirely along the first side (37) and the second side (39) of the plate (34), respectively.

11. The valve fixing device (30, 300) according to claim 1 or 2. It further includes at least one through hole (20) formed in the plate (34) for receiving a screw (22) for screwing the valve fixing device (30, 300) to the valve assembly (4).

12. A solenoid valve assembly (32) for a manual-automatic transmission, comprising: Valve assembly (4), the valve assembly (4) having a snap-fit ​​interface; Multiple solenoid valves (8, 12) are received in corresponding recesses (47) of the valve assembly (4); as well as At least one valve fixing device (30, 300) according to any one of the preceding claims is attached to the valve assembly (4) by means of a snap-fit ​​connection between the snap-fit ​​element (40) and the corresponding snap-fit ​​interface (52, 55). The snap-fit ​​interfaces (52, 55) are located on the side (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4). When in the installation state, the side (50, 54) extends substantially parallel to the corresponding first leg (36) of the valve fixing device (30, 300).

13. The solenoid valve assembly (32) according to claim 12. in, The snap-fit ​​interfaces (52, 55) are formed as protrusions that are inclined relative to the respective sides (50, 54) of the valve assembly (4) and protrude from the respective sides, such that the respective first leg (36) having the snap-fit ​​element (40) initially bends outward in a continuously increasing manner as it moves along the protrusion and then springs back, such that the snap-fit ​​element (40) engages the protrusion in the installed state.

14. The solenoid valve assembly (32) according to claim 12 or 13. in, The valve assembly (4) includes a plurality of threaded holes (48) corresponding to a plurality of through holes (20) in the plate (34) for receiving a plurality of screws (22) disposed through the through holes (20).

15. A commercial vehicle comprising a solenoid valve assembly (32) according to any one of claims 12 to 14.

16. A method for installing the solenoid valve assembly (32) according to claim 14, the method comprising the steps of: - At least one of the multiple solenoid valves (8, 12) is arranged in the recess (47) of the valve assembly (4); - The solenoid valve is fixed to the valve assembly (4) by means of valve fixing devices (30, 300); - Brazing the flexible foil to the solenoid valves (8, 12); and - The solenoid valves (8, 12) are securely attached to the valve assembly (4) by means of a plurality of threaded holes (48), the plurality of threaded holes corresponding to a plurality of through holes (20) in the plate body (34) for receiving a plurality of screws (22) disposed through the through holes (20).

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising the following steps: - Before the solenoid valves (8, 12) are securely attached to the valve assembly (4) by engaging the plurality of threaded holes (48) with the plurality of screws (22), the functional components (56) are mounted to the plate (34).

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