Valve assembly for simulated moving bed chromatography

Abstract

Provided is an assembly comprising: at least one valve box block (20) comprising a plurality of valves (25) controllable via a control surface (24) of the valve box block (20); a valve control block (10) having an operating surface (11), the valve control block (10) being configured to control each of the plurality of valves (25) when the operating surface (11) contacts the control surface (24) of the at least one valve box block (20), the valve control block (10) comprising at least one sliding groove (14) formed in the operating surface (11); and at least one sliding member (30) configured to contact the at least one sliding groove (14). 4) slidably interlocked so that at least one sliding component (30) is movable relative to the valve control block (10) in a sliding direction parallel to the operating surface (11); at least one traction bracket (40, 50) is configured to surround at least one valve box block (20) and interact with at least one sliding component (30) so that sliding movement of at least one sliding component (30) in at least one sliding groove (14) causes the traction bracket (40, 50) to traction the at least one valve box block (20), wherein its control surface (24) abuts against the operating surface (11) of the valve control block (10).

Description

Background Art

[0001] Biopharmaceutical or drug production involves the purification of solutions from which active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are extracted. These solutions, also known as feeds, can be chemically synthesized or produced bio-organically. Feeds contain multiple components that need to be separated from one another, such as one or more target components and impurities. Chromatography is a technique used to perform this separation process.

[0002] One embodiment of chromatography for separating two components is a simulated moving bed (SMB). An SMB system comprises multiple columns connected in series or parallel, two inlets (one for feed and one for buffer), and two outlets (one for each component of the feed). The positions of the inlet and outlet are moved at regular intervals in a given direction to simulate the movement of the column in the opposite direction. Switching the positions of the inlet and outlet requires a set of appropriately controlled valves.

[0003] The BioSMB system for SMB chromatography includes a valve assembly consisting of two separate blocks: a valve control block that regulates valve switching and a valve cartridge block containing multiple valves. The cartridge block is the only component that comes into contact with the fluid and can be easily replaced after each use, eliminating tedious cleaning procedures.

[0004] The connection between the control block and the valve cartridge block needs to be airtight. Typically, the valve cartridge block is pressed against the control block using multiple screws and washers tightened in a predetermined sequence, for example, first with 2 Nm and then with 3.5 Nm. This step requires a calibrated torque wrench and a long installation time (approximately 45 minutes).

[0005] Another conventional method for securing the valve cage block to the control block is to use a rotating door with an array of hydraulic cylinders that apply the required sealing pressure. This process involves very complex design and high costs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect, there is provided a valve device or assembly comprising:

[0007] at least one valve box block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of the valve box block;

[0008] - a valve control block having an operating surface, the valve control block being configured to (selectively) control (e.g., open and close) each of the plurality of valves when the operating surface is in close contact with a control surface of the at least one valve cartridge block, the valve control block including at least one sliding groove formed in the operating surface;

[0009] at least one sliding member configured to be slidably interlocked (e.g., engaged) with the at least one sliding groove, such that the at least one sliding member is movable relative to the valve control block in (particularly, only in one) sliding direction parallel to the operating surface, the sliding direction being defined as the length direction of the sliding groove,

[0010] - at least one traction bracket configured to surround the at least one valve box block and to interact with the at least one sliding component such that a sliding movement of the at least one sliding component in the at least one sliding groove (in a sliding direction relative to the valve control block and the at least one traction bracket) causes the at least one traction bracket to pull the at least one valve box block with its control surface abutting against the operating surface of the valve control block.

[0011] The valve control block may even include a plurality of sliding grooves formed in the operating surface. The assembly may further include a plurality of sliding components, each sliding component being configured to slidably interlock with a corresponding sliding groove (such that each sliding component is movable relative to the valve control block in a (corresponding) sliding direction parallel to the operating surface). The sliding components are all capable of moving parallel to each other (i.e., in the same sliding direction). In one example, the plurality of sliding grooves may be formed parallel to each other, and they may even be at least partially equidistant from each other. In addition, the assembly may also include a plurality of traction brackets, each traction bracket being configured to surround the at least one valve box block and interact with a corresponding sliding component of the sliding components such that sliding movement of the corresponding sliding component in the corresponding sliding groove (relative to the valve control block and the traction bracket along the corresponding sliding direction) causes the corresponding traction bracket to traction the at least one valve box block, wherein its control surface abuts the operating surface of the valve control block.

[0012] The at least one sliding component may include two lateral shoulders as an embodiment of an interlocking structure of the sliding component, wherein the two lateral shoulders may be adapted to engage with corresponding undercut recesses formed in corresponding sliding grooves of the valve control block. Alternatively, other geometries of the interlocking structure of the sliding component may be used, as further explained below.

[0013] In any case, the sliding component(s) can engage with the sliding groove(s) such that, in the engaged state, the sliding component(s) can move relative to the valve control block in a sliding direction. In particular, the engagement can prevent or at least limit movement of the sliding component(s) relative to the valve control block in a direction perpendicular to the operating surface. Therefore, the sliding component can receive and transmit traction between the valve control block and the valve cage block in a direction perpendicular to the operating surface, where the direction perpendicular to the operating surface is the traction direction.

[0014] Movement of the traction bracket(s) relative to the valve control block in a sliding direction can be restricted such that sliding movement of the sliding member(s) in the sliding groove(s) in the sliding direction results in relative movement between the sliding member(s) and the corresponding traction bracket(s). In an assembled state (i.e., during operation), the sliding member(s) and the corresponding traction bracket(s) are movably coupled via a fastening mechanism, and the fastening mechanism interacts to cause the traction bracket to pull at least one valve cartridge block toward the valve control block when the sliding member moves. In other words, the fastening mechanism converts sliding movement of the sliding member in the sliding direction into movement of the traction bracket in the traction direction, i.e., movement perpendicular to the operating surface of the valve control block.

[0015] The at least one sliding component may include a ridge, wherein the ridge includes a portion of a fastening mechanism enabling interaction between the sliding component and the pulling bracket. In an example, the at least one pulling bracket may include a U-shaped beam configured to at least partially receive the ridge of the corresponding sliding component, and the U-shaped beam may include a complementary portion of the fastening mechanism enabling interaction between the sliding component and the pulling bracket.

[0016] Alternatively, the fastening mechanism may be implemented such that one of the sliding member and the traction bracket includes a sliding surface that is inclined relative to the sliding direction (and the traction direction), while the other includes or accommodates an abutment element that slidably abuts the inclined sliding surface. Relative movement of the sliding member and the traction bracket causes the abutment element to slide along the inclined direction of the sliding surface, thereby generating a traction force between the sliding member and the traction bracket. This traction force pulls the valve cartridge block, with its control surface abutting the operating surface of the valve control block. In other words, the inclined sliding surface, together with the abutment element, converts sliding movement of the sliding member into movement of the traction bracket perpendicular to the operating surface of the valve control block.

[0017] The assembly may further include a tensioning screw to control the forced sliding movement of the sliding member relative to the valve control block in the sliding groove when the pulling bracket interacts with the sliding member, thereby causing the operating surface of the valve control block surrounded by the pulling bracket to be tightly pulled against the control surface of the valve box block.

[0018] The at least one traction bracket (or each of the plurality of traction brackets) may include a bridge rod, a plurality of tension rods, and a wrapping yoke. The bridge rod may be configured to engage with the at least one sliding component. Each of the plurality of tension rods may be connected to the bridge rod via its first end, and the plurality of tension rods may extend perpendicular to the bridge rod and substantially parallel to one another. The wrapping yoke may be removably attached to the second ends of the plurality of tension rods, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension rods. Thus, the valve cartridge block can be easily and effectively wrapped between the bridge rod and the wrapping yoke, wherein the tension rods connect the bridge rod and the wrapping yoke and hold them together. In particular, during operation, the bridge rods may directly engage (interact) with the corresponding sliding component to be pulled toward the valve control block when the sliding component moves. The tension rods may extend from the bridge in the pulling direction and transmit the pulling force to the wrapping yoke. The wrapping yoke may wrap around and support the valve cartridge block on its surface opposite the control surface, i.e., the retaining surface. Thus, the surrounding yoke(s) can mechanically support the valve cartridge block (at the retaining surface) while simultaneously pushing against the retaining surface towards the valve control block. This enables the valve arrangement to be easily assembled and disassembled while being reliably held together during operation, with forces applied to the valve cartridge block being substantially evenly distributed.

[0019] The at least one traction bracket may particularly include at least three tension rods, and the at least one valve cartridge block may include at least one surrounding slot extending through the control surface to the opposite side of the valve cartridge block, such that when the traction bracket surrounds the valve cartridge block, at least one of the at least three tension rods may extend through the surrounding slot. This may facilitate a more even distribution of traction forces on the valve cartridge block.

[0020] The assembly may further include an anti-displacement structure that prevents relative movement of the valve box block and the valve control block relative to each other, at least in the sliding direction (defined by the sliding groove) when the control surface and the operating surface face each other or contact each other. This ensures the correct relative placement of the control surface and the operating surface relative to each other to reliably operate multiple valves, and also avoids or reduces lateral forces between the control surface and the operating surface when tightening the connection between the control surface and the operating surface while moving the sliding component. This not only ensures correct operation, but also avoids or reduces the risk of damage (for example, to a sensitive membrane at the control surface). In one example, the anti-displacement structure may include at least one protrusion formed in one of the valve box block and the valve control block and at least one matching recess formed in the other of the valve box block and the valve control block.

[0021] According to another aspect, a method for assembling a valve device is provided. The method comprises:

[0022] - providing at least one valve cartridge block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of the valve cartridge block;

[0023] - providing a valve control block having an operating surface, the valve control block being configured to (selectively) control (e.g., open and close) each of the plurality of valves when the operating surface is in contact with a control surface of the at least one valve cartridge block;

[0024] - slidably interlocking at least one sliding member with at least one sliding groove formed in the operating surface of the valve control block, so that the at least one sliding member is movable relative to the valve control block in (particularly, only in one) sliding direction parallel to the operating surface;

[0025] - surrounding the at least one valve box block with at least one pulling bracket;

[0026] - engaging the at least one pulling bracket with the at least one sliding member such that (sliding) movement of the at least one sliding member in the at least one sliding groove (relative to the valve control block and the pulling bracket) causes the at least one pulling bracket to pull the at least one valve cartridge block, wherein its control surface abuts against an operating surface of the valve control block;

[0027] - securing the valve device by sliding the at least one sliding member in the at least one sliding groove, thereby causing the at least one valve cartridge block to be drawn (urged) via its control surface against the operating surface of the valve control block. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The details of the exemplary embodiments are set forth below with reference to the exemplary drawings. Other features will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and from the claims. However, it should be understood that even if embodiments are described separately, individual features of different embodiments may be combined into further embodiments.

[0029] Figure 1 An example of a valve box block is shown.

[0030] Figure 2 An example of a valve control block is shown.

[0031] Figure 3a Portions of an exemplary valve box block including valves and channels are shown.

[0032] Figure 3b The functionality of an exemplary valve is shown.

[0033] Figure 4a Several exemplary sliding components are shown.

[0034] Figure 4b Different examples of cross sections of sliding components and corresponding sliding grooves are shown.

[0035] Figure 5 Several exemplary towing brackets are shown.

[0036] Figure 6 An exemplary valve device or assembly is shown in a disassembled state.

[0037] Figure 7 An exemplary valve device or assembly is shown in an assembled state.

[0038] Figures 8a to 8c An exemplary valve arrangement is shown in various stages of assembly and operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Hereinafter, a detailed description of the examples will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that various modifications may be made to the examples. Unless otherwise expressly stated, elements of one example may be combined and used in other examples to form new examples.

[0040] The following description relates to components constituting a valve arrangement for use in an SMB chromatography separation process.The chromatography separation process may be exemplarily performed to purify a recombinant protein product, or a monoclonal antibody, or a viral vector, or a DNA product.

[0041] The assembly includes two blocks: a valve cartridge block (or "valve cartridge") that includes a plurality of valves, and a valve control block that controls the plurality of valves. Figure 1 An example of a valve box block 20 is shown, and Figure 2 An example of a valve control block 10 is shown.

[0042] The valve box block 20 includes a plurality of valves 25 (in Figure 1 Not visible in , but in Figure 3a ), for example, a diaphragm valve or a membrane valve. The valve 25 can be controlled via the control surface 24 of the valve box block 20 (for example, switching between an open state and a closed state, or switching between a connected state and a disconnected state, or even switching between three or more different valve states for each valve). Figure 1 In the example of FIG, the control surface 24 is located on the far side opposite the retaining surface 26 of the valve box block 20. The plurality of valves can be arranged in a regular array along the control surface 24. For example, each of the valves can be addressed (controlled) separately from the other valves.

[0043] The valve control block 10 includes a plurality of control elements 15, such as a plurality of solenoids, arranged at the operating surface 11 of the valve control block 10 for controlling valves 25 in the valve cartridge block 20. Each solenoid is configured to control (e.g., open / close) a corresponding valve 25 when the control surface 24 of the valve cartridge block 20 is in close contact with the operating surface 11 of the valve control block 10. Thus, the valve cartridge block 20 may include n valves 25, and the valve control block 10 may include n control elements 15, such as solenoids. The plurality of control elements 15 may be arranged in a regular array corresponding to the regular array of the plurality of valves, such that each control element 15 is positioned adjacent to a corresponding valve 25 and is capable of controlling the corresponding valve when the control surface 24 is in close contact with the operating surface 11 in the installed state of the assembly.

[0044] exist Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG, the valve control block 10 includes a plurality of parallel sliding grooves 14 formed in the operating surface 11. The sliding grooves 14 are configured to interlock with corresponding sliding components, which will be further explained below. In particular, the sliding grooves 14 may be recessed relative to the plane formed by the operating surface 11 on which the control element 15 is located. Figure 2 As shown in , the sliding grooves 11 may be (regularly) arranged parallel to each other (eg equidistantly) such that they (partially) separate parallel control block banks 16 forming parts of the operating surface 11 between the plurality of sliding grooves 14 .

[0045] The control elements 15 may be implemented in one or more of the control block banks 16, i.e. between the sliding grooves 14. In this respect, each of the control block banks 16 or only a portion (i.e. one or more) of the control block banks 16 may comprise one or more of the control elements 15. Those control block banks 16 comprising one or more control elements 15 may each have a surface forming part of the operating surface 11 and preferably lying in a common plane. Figure 4a and Figure 4b Further exemplary details regarding the plurality of sliding grooves 14 and the plurality of control block banks 16 are discussed.

[0046] The plurality of valves 25 may be located on a substantially flat surface of the valve box block 20, for example, Figure 1 The arrangement of the valves 25 on the valve box block 20 can correspond to the arrangement of the control elements 15 on the valve control block 10, so that each valve corresponds to its corresponding control element 15 when the valve box block 20 is placed next to the valve control block 10. For example, the plurality of valves 25 (and similarly, the control elements 15) can be arranged in rows and columns according to an array.

[0047] The valve box block 20 may include a plurality of channels that can be connected or disconnected by actuating valves 25 . Figure 3aFIG. 2 shows a cutout portion of a valve box block 20 including a diaphragm valve 25 and two channels in directions orthogonal to each other. The structure of the valve box block 20 may include, for example, Figure 3a , to provide a manifold for valves 25 and interconnectable conduits forming flow paths. The valve cartridge block 20 may include inlet and outlet connections for connecting to external components, such as a chromatography column or a diaphragm device or a collection container. Exemplarily, the valve cartridge block 20 may be a unitarily formed block made of, for example, a plastic such as acrylic resin.

[0048] Figure 3b The function of an exemplary diaphragm valve 25 in the valve cartridge block 20 is shown as being controlled by a corresponding solenoid in the valve control block 10. In particular, the valve control block 10 may further include a plurality of air chambers, each associated with a corresponding solenoid such that the solenoids serve as pneumatic actuators for the corresponding valves 25. The air chambers may include one or more cavities, for example, a cavity on a surface of the valve control block 10 configured to receive a diaphragm valve. The air chambers may further include a cavity having an inlet and an outlet for passage of air.

[0049] For example, the solenoid may be a normally open (NO) solenoid, which means that the diaphragm valve is normally closed ( Figure 3b When the solenoid switches from open to closed, it removes the air pressure from the diaphragm valve, which then opens, connecting the conduit in the valve box block 20 ( Figure 3b The right-hand side of the cartridge. A valve block can also be constructed to house a miniature air- or hydraulically-operated plunger (or finger) that applies a mechanical force on the valve diaphragm to close the valve, or releases the force to open the valve (either through media fluid pressure on the cartridge side or a physical connection of the diaphragm to an actuator plunger that pulls the valve open). Alternatively, a plunger designed using an electromagnetic latching solenoid or piezoelectric actuator can also be used.

[0050] In other words, the valve control block 10 and the valve cartridge block 20 cooperate to switch the flow path and, therefore, the connection to the inlet and outlet for feed and solvent. The valve control block 10 and the valve cartridge block 20 are formed separately and then mechanically coupled. One advantage of this configuration is that the valve control block 10 can be a permanent component of the chromatography system, and the valve cartridge block 20 can be a disposable component.

[0051] Figure 3b The dashed line on the left-hand side of shows the interface between the valve control block 10 and the valve cage block 20. To ensure proper operation of the valve device, it is desirable that the valve control block 10 and the valve cage block 20 are in airtight contact with each other, and that the valves 25 of the valve cage block 20 are accurately positioned corresponding to the control elements (e.g., solenoids and air chambers) in the valve control block 10.

[0052] To this end, the valve device may comprise a combination of a sliding member and a pulling bracket, as described below.

[0053] Figure 4a A plurality of exemplary sliding members 30 are shown, wherein the sliding members 30 may all be identical. The plurality of sliding members 30 are configured to slidably interlock with at least some of the plurality of sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10, wherein each sliding member 30 is configured to slidably interlock with a corresponding sliding groove 14. In other words, each sliding member 30 is configured to engage a corresponding sliding groove 14 such that the sliding member 30 is movable in a given direction (parallel to the sliding direction of the operating surface), but is fixed / guided in other directions.

[0054] Generally, the number of sliding components 30 may be less than or equal to the number of sliding grooves 14. Therefore, although each sliding component 30 is received in a sliding groove 14, not every sliding groove 14 receives a sliding component 30. Figure 1 4 , the valve control block 10 includes seven sliding grooves 14, and the plurality of sliding members 30 includes four sliding members 30. In this case, every other sliding groove 14 may engage a sliding member 30. In other examples, the number of sliding grooves 14 and sliding members 30 may vary.

[0055] The shapes and sizes of the sliding members 30 and the sliding grooves 14 may at least partially correspond to each other, so that each sliding member 30 can interlock with its corresponding sliding groove 14. In particular, the cross-section of the sliding member 30 in a plane perpendicular to the sliding direction may have a shape and size that at least partially matches the corresponding cross-section of the sliding groove 14. Since the sliding groove 14 is an empty space (or negative space) defined by the adjacent control block dikes 16, the cross-section of the sliding member 30 may have a shape that at least partially complements the shape of the cross-section of the control block dikes 16.

[0056] like Figure 4a As shown in the example of FIG, each sliding part 30 may include a ridge 34 and two lateral shoulders 32 (as an embodiment of an interlocking structure of the sliding parts), said ridge 34 and two lateral shoulders 32 together forming a substantially T-shaped cross-section perpendicular to the sliding direction (at least over a large part of its extension in the sliding direction). The shoulders 32 may be adapted to engage with corresponding undercut recesses 17 formed in corresponding sliding grooves 14 (see FIG. Figure 4b ).

[0057] Each slide member 30 can be considered to include an interlocking portion 32 (e.g., a lateral shoulder 32) configured to engage the valve control block 10 and a ridge 34 configured to engage the pulling bracket, as described below. In particular, the interlocking portion 32 can have both a shape and size that matches (i.e., is substantially identical to) the shape and size of the slide groove portion with which it engages to ensure a stable interlock. The ridge 34, which is also received in the slide groove 14 as explained in more detail below, can have different sizes and can also have a different shape relative to the slide groove.

[0058] Figure 4b Three different examples of cross-sections of the sliding member 30 and the control block bank 16 are shown. The cross-sections are in a plane perpendicular to the sliding direction. This plane is parallel to the pulling direction. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale.

[0059] In example (i), the sliding member 30 has a T-shaped cross section that matches the T-shaped cross section of the sliding groove 14 formed by the control block bank 16. Alternative examples (ii) and (iii) are also Figure 4b Shown in. Figure 4b The cross-sections shown in are just a few examples of interlocking structures having corresponding / matching shapes. Further examples may include cross-sections, curved cross-sections, and other additional shapes.

[0060] More generally, each sliding groove 14 and, accordingly, each sliding member 30 may have a variable width in a direction perpendicular to the operating surface (traction direction), wherein the width may be step-wise or gradually varied as in examples (i) to (iii). The variable width may create a "bottleneck" such that once the sliding member 30 is inserted into the sliding groove 14, the sliding member 30 is fixed in the traction direction.

[0061] Thus, the plurality of sliding members 30 may be slidably interlocked with the plurality of sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10 , thereby fixing the sliding members 30 and the valve control block 10 to each other.

[0062] Back to Figure 4a Each sliding member 30 may include a ridge 34, as described. The ridge 34 may include a portion of a fastening mechanism (such as a first through slot 36 spanning the width of the ridge) that enables interaction between the sliding member 30 and a pulling bracket (described further below) such that sliding movement of the sliding member 30 relative to the pulling bracket in the sliding groove 14 causes the pulling bracket (40, 50) to pull the valve cartridge block (20) with its control surface (24) abutting against the operating surface (11) of the valve control block (10).

[0063] In this example, each ridge 34 includes a plurality of first through slots 36 extending across the width of the ridge 34 and a threaded hole 38 having a depth in the sliding direction. The threaded hole 38 is configured to receive a tensioning screw (e.g., one of the plurality of tensioning screws 75) in the ridge 34. Figure 7 In particular, the threaded hole 38 may be a blind hole.

[0064] The first through-slots 36 can be angled through-slots or mating through-slots, as discussed below. Each first through-slot 36 is configured to receive a pin, such as a locating pin. For example, each ridge 34 can include three first through-slots 36. In other examples, each ridge can include two or more than three first through-slots 36.

[0065] The plurality of sliding members 30 are configured to engage with the plurality of pulling brackets. Figure 5 A plurality of exemplary pulling brackets are shown, each including a bracket member 40 and a surrounding yoke 50. For example, the pulling brackets may all be identical. The plurality of pulling brackets are configured to surround and retain the valve cartridge block 20, such that the valve cartridge block 20 and the plurality of pulling brackets form a rigid body. In other words, the plurality of pulling brackets may be configured to retain the valve cartridge block 20 such that the valve cartridge block 20 does not move relative to the plurality of pulling brackets. The combination of the pulling brackets and the valve cartridge block 20 may be referred to as a "cartridge assembly."

[0066] The traction bracket and the valve cage block 20 are configured to be coupled so that they do not move relative to each other and, rather, behave as a single rigid body even under the action of (traction) forces. This means that, for example, if multiple traction brackets are pulled toward the valve control block, the valve cage block 20 is dragged along and pulled by substantially the same amount.

[0067] Each traction bracket (specifically, the bracket part 40 of the traction bracket) may include a bridging rod 41 and a plurality of tension rods 42 extending perpendicular to the bridging rod 41. In particular, the tension rods 42 may be connected to the bridging rod 41 via their first ends, and may extend perpendicular to the bridging rod 41, and may be substantially parallel to each other. They may even be equidistant from each other within one / each traction bracket. In particular, a tension rod 42 (external tension rod) may be provided at each end of the bridging rod 41, so that the tension rods (external tension rods) at the ends of the bridging rod 41 may surround the valve box block outside the peripheral edge of the valve box block. For any tension rods (internal tension rods) between these external tension rods, the valve box block may provide corresponding surrounding through slots 28 so that the internal tension rod(s) extend through the valve box block.

[0068] In the example shown in the accompanying drawings, each traction bracket includes a wraparound yoke 50 that is removably attached to the second ends of the plurality of tension rods 42, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension rods 42. For example, each tension rod 42 may include an opening 43 (through slot) at its second end, the opening 43 being configured to receive the corresponding wraparound yoke. Each wraparound yoke 50 may include a body 53 and a stop element 56. The body 53 may be a straight rod. Each wraparound yoke 50 may be configured to be inserted through the opening 43 (of the tension rod 42) of the corresponding bracket component 40 so as to be substantially parallel to the bridging rod 41 of the corresponding bracket component 40. In particular, the shape and size of the wraparound yoke 50 may match the shape and size of the opening 43. The stop element 56 may be configured to hold the wraparound yoke in a fixed position once the wraparound yoke 50 is inserted into the opening 43.

[0069] Thus, the bracket member 40 and the surrounding yoke 50 can be coupled by sliding the surrounding yoke 50 into the opening 43 of the bracket member 40 to form a closed frame for the valve cartridge block 20. A plurality of bracket members 40 and a plurality of surrounding yokes 50 can together form a "rib cage" that can enclose the valve cartridge block 20. Thus, the valve cartridge block 20 can be sandwiched between the traction member 40 and the surrounding yoke 50 in what can be referred to as an "assembled state."

[0070] For example, each surrounding yoke 50 may have a plurality of protrusions 59 on a side thereof, the plurality of protrusions 59 being configured to face and contact the valve cage block 20. The plurality of protrusions 59 on the closure member 50 may be positioned such that, in an assembled state, each protrusion 59 may contact an area on one side of the valve cage block 20 corresponding to one of the valves 25 on the other side of the valve cage block 20. The presence of the plurality of protrusions 59 may help to distribute force more evenly.

[0071] In an example where each bracket component 40 cooperates with a surrounding yoke 50, the plurality of tension rods 42 may include only two tension rods (hereinafter referred to as "external tension rods") at the ends of the bridging rod 41. Thus, each bracket component 40 may have a C-shape.

[0072] Alternatively, the plurality of tension rods 42 may include two outer tension rods and one or more inner tension rods positioned between the outer tension rods. Figure 5 The example of the embodiment shows a support member 40 that each includes one internal tension rod, so that each support member 40 has an E-shape. Other examples may include two or more internal tension rods. The tension rods 42 may be equidistant from each other along the support member 40, or may be at different distances from each other.

[0073] In the case of one or more internal tension rods, the valve cage block 20 may include a plurality of circumferential through slots 28 (see Figure 1) for inserting internal tension rods extending through the valve cartridge block in the pulling direction. Thus, by passing the internal tension rods through a plurality of circumferential through-slots 28, the valve cartridge block 20 and a plurality of pulling brackets 40, 50 can be coupled. If each pulling bracket 40, 50 includes n internal tension rods, and there are m pulling brackets 40, 50 for one valve cartridge block, the valve cartridge block 20 may include at least n×m circumferential through-slots 28. The presence of one or more internal tension rods can facilitate a more even distribution of force.

[0074] In summary, the pulling brackets 40, 50 and the valve cage block 20 are configured to be coupled to one another, thereby forming a subassembly that can be connected to the valve control block 10 via a sliding member 30 that can engage with the pulling brackets 40, 50, for example, with their respective bridging rods 41. In other examples, the pulling brackets may not have bridging rods, and instead the tension rods may directly engage with the sliding members.

[0075] In fact, if Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the bridging bar 41 of each bracket component 40 includes a U-shaped beam configured to at least partially receive the spine 34 of the corresponding sliding component 30. Specifically, the U-shaped beam has a slit 44 formed between two side flanges 45. The slit 44 is configured to receive the corresponding spine 34 of the sliding component 30. The slit 44 can extend along the entire length of the bridging bar 41. The length of the slit can be substantially equal to or longer than the length of the spine 34 of the sliding component 30.

[0076] Each pulling bracket comprises a portion of a fastening mechanism that is complementary to the portion of the fastening mechanism implemented in the corresponding sliding member 30. Thus, this complementary portion of the fastening mechanism contributes to the interaction between the sliding member 30 and the pulling bracket 40, 50, so that the sliding movement of the sliding member 30 in the sliding groove 14 relative to the pulling bracket causes the pulling bracket 40, 50 to pull the valve cartridge block 20, wherein its control face 24 abuts against the operating face 11 of the valve control block 10.

[0077] In the example shown in the drawings, as the complementary portion of the fastening mechanism, each side flange 45 includes a plurality of second through-slots 46 across its width (perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions), which can be angled through-slots or mating through-slots, as discussed further below. Each second through-slot 46 is configured to receive a pin, such as a locating pin 60. The number of second through-slots 46 in each individual side flange 45 can be the same as the number of first through-slots 36 in the spine 34.

[0078] The second through-slots 46 in one side flange 45 of the pulling member 40 are positioned correspondingly to the second through-slots 46 in the other side flange 45. In other words, the second through-slots 46 form a pair of facing or opposing holes. Furthermore, the second through-slots 46 on each pulling member 40 and the first through-slots 36 on each sliding member 30 are positioned such that, when the ridge 34 is inserted into the slit 44, each first through-slot 36 at least partially overlaps with two second through-slots 46. In other words, the first through-slots 36 and the second through-slots 46 are positioned such that they can be at least partially aligned with each other.

[0079] Therefore, the assembled combination of the pulling bracket and the sliding member also has a through slot extending across its width. To complete the embodiment of the fastening mechanism, a plurality of pins 60 are provided, wherein the pins are configured to pass through the respective first through slots 36 and the respective second through slots 46, thereby transmitting the interaction between the sliding member 30 and the pulling brackets 40, 50. Thus, the pins 60 are configured to couple the pulling brackets 40, 50 with their respective sliding members 30 when inserted into the through slots. In this configuration, the first through slots 36 and the second through slots 46 are angled, so that the sliding member 30 and the pulling brackets 40, 50 are still partially movable relative to each other in the sliding direction, i.e., partially movable relative to each other parallel to the spine 34.

[0080] The shape and size of the mating through-slot substantially match the shape and size of the cross-section of the pin 60 in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the pin 60 is inserted into the through-slot. In contrast, an inclined through-slot is an elongated through-slot oriented obliquely within such a plane. Specifically, the inclined through-slot has a cross-section that includes the long axis of the extension and the short axis of the extension (e.g., within a plane parallel to the pulling direction and parallel to the sliding direction). The long axis of the extension is larger than the corresponding dimension of the pin 60, allowing the pin 60 to move within the inclined through-slot along the long axis of the extension while being guided by the inclined through-slot. In one example, the elongated cross-section of the inclined through-slot may have an aspect ratio (the ratio between the long extension and the short extension) of 5 or greater. The extension of the inclined through-slot along its short axis may correspond to the thickness of the pin 60.

[0081] The direction of the long axis of the extension portion can be considered an oblique direction. This oblique direction, i.e., the extension of the inclined through-slot along the long axis of its extension portion, encompasses an angle (oblique angle) relative to the sliding direction that is different from 0 and different from 90°. In one aspect, the oblique angle can be at least about 5°, optionally at least about 10°. In a further aspect, the oblique angle can be no more than about 20°, optionally no more than about 15°.

[0082] Figure 6The figure shows a disassembled state of an exemplary valve device or assembly, which includes a valve control block 10, a plurality of sliding components 30, a plurality of bracket components 40, a valve box block 20, a plurality of pins 60, a plurality of tensioning screws 75, a plurality of fixing plates 70, and a plurality of surrounding yokes 50. These components can be assembled in various installation orders.

[0083] In one example, the valve cage block 20 can first be assembled with the pulling brackets 40 and 50. Then, the sliding components 30 can be coupled to the pulling brackets 40 and 50 using the pins 60. Thereafter, all of the sliding components 30 can be inserted together into the corresponding sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10. When the sliding components are fully inserted into the sliding grooves, the fixing plate 70 can be mounted to the valve control block.

[0084] There may be one fixing plate 70 provided for each inserted sliding member 30. Alternatively, one or more fixing plates 70 may be provided, each covering a plurality of sliding grooves. The fixing plate(s) 70 may be fixed to the valve control block 10. In one example, the fixing plate(s) 70 may be fixed to at least some of the control block banks 16 of the valve control block 10 via fixing screws.

[0085] As one function, the fixing plates 70 can close the sliding grooves to retain the sliding member in the sliding grooves. As another function, the fixing plates can stabilize and secure the traction bracket, preventing it from moving in the sliding direction. To further utilize these functions, there can be fixing plates 70 (or other similar structures) disposed at both ends of each corresponding sliding groove. As yet another function, the fixing plates 70 can serve as abutments for tensioning screws 75, which can be inserted through corresponding holes in each fixing plate 70 to engage corresponding threaded holes in the sliding member 30.

[0086] In another example of an assembly sequence, for example, the bracket member 40, without the surrounding yoke 50 and without the valve cartridge block 20, can first be coupled to the slide member 30 using the pin 60. The valve cartridge block 20 can then be surrounded by the bracket member 40 together with the surrounding yoke 50. Thereafter, the slide member 30 can be interlocked with the valve control block 10, and the retaining plate 70 can be installed. In any case, before operating the assembly, the tensioning screw 75 will be tightened as further explained below.

[0087] However, it is particularly desirable that, in yet another example, the bracket component 40 (without the surrounding yoke 50 and the valve cartridge block 20) ​​be first coupled to the slide component 30 using the pin 60. The slide component 30 can then be inserted into the slide groove 14 of the valve control block 10 and secured by the fixing plate 70. Before tightening the tensioning screw 75, the valve control block 20 can be inserted into the bracket component 40 and secured by the surrounding yoke 50. This latter example is particularly suitable when at least the valve cartridge block 20 is implemented as a disposable component that can be replaced after use, while the other components in the assembly are implemented as reusable. In this case, replacing the valve cartridge block 20 does not require complete disassembly of the entire device. It is sufficient to simply release the tensioning screw 75 and pull the surrounding yoke 50 out of the hole in the tension rod 42.

[0088] Figure 7 The assembled state of an exemplary valve device or assembly is shown. In the assembled state, each slide member 30 is slidably interlocked with the valve control block 10 on one side and is movably engaged with a corresponding bracket member 40 on the other side. Each bracket member 40, in turn, is movably engaged with the slide member 30 on one side and, together with the surrounding yoke 50, fixedly holds the valve cartridge block 20. The valve cartridge block 20 has a side portion of the valve cartridge block 20 that includes a valve 25 (control surface) facing the valve control block 10, i.e., an operating surface of the valve control block.

[0089] Specifically, the ridge 34 of the sliding member 30 may be positioned within the bridging rod 41 of the bracket member 40. In other words, the ridge 34 may be sandwiched between the side flanges 45 of the slit 44 of the bracket member 40. The ridge 34 and the bridging rod 41 surrounded by the ridge 34 may be positioned within the sliding groove 14 of the valve control block 10. As described above, the interlocking portion 32 of the sliding member 30 may cooperate with the portion of the sliding groove with which it engages, allowing the sliding member 30 to slidably move along the sliding direction (the longitudinal extension of the sliding groove) while being secured relative to the valve control block in other directions. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the ridge 34 plus the width of the side flange 45 may substantially correspond to the width of the sliding groove 14, preventing movement of the sliding member 30 and the bracket member 40 perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions. Consequently, movement of the valve cage block 20 relative to the valve control block, at least in directions perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions, is effectively prevented. Thus, the arrangement of the control element 15 at the operating surface of the valve control block 10 and the valve 25 at the control surface of the valve cage block can be kept stable relative to each other at least in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction and the pulling direction.

[0090] In addition, the valve cartridge block 20 and / or the valve control block 10 may include one or more locating features configured to hold the cartridge assembly fixed relative to the sliding direction. This may help press the valve cartridge block 20 against the valve control block 10. In addition, this may help correctly position the valve 25 on the valve cartridge block 20 relative to the control element 15 on the valve control block 10.

[0091] In one example, the valve cage block 20 may have at least one protrusion 22 on one side of the control surface, i.e., the side that faces the valve control block 10 when assembled. For example, the at least one protrusion 22 may span the entire width of the valve cage block 20. In other examples, it may be shorter and / or may be discontinuous, for example, positioned only corresponding to the control block bank 16. In the example shown in the figures, the valve cage block 20 has two protrusions 22, one at each edge of its surface.

[0092] The valve control block 10 may include a groove 12 as a counter-portion to the at least one protrusion 22. The valve control block 10 may include at least one groove 12 into which the at least one protrusion 22 is inserted. In other words, each control block embankment 16 may include at least one groove 12 configured to accommodate the at least one protrusion 22 of the valve box block 20. In particular, the size of the groove may match the size of the protrusion 22. Thus, the insertion of the at least one protrusion 22 in the at least one groove 12 in each of the control block embankments 16 may support correct positioning and prevent relative movement of the valve box block and the valve control block relative to each other, at least with respect to the sliding direction, in the assembled state. In the accompanying drawings (e.g., Figure 2 ), each control block bank 16 has two grooves 12.

[0093] Figures 8a to 8c sectional views of an exemplary valve device in different states during tightening of the tensioning screw 75 are shown. The cross sections correspond to the cross sections parallel to the sliding direction ( Figures 8a to 8c vertical direction in the direction of traction) and the pulling direction ( Figures 8a to 8c The horizontal direction of the cross section.

[0094] Figure 8a A cross-sectional view of the valve assembly is shown at a stage in which a tensioning screw 75 extending through the fixing plate 70 is initially inserted into the threaded hole 38 of the sliding member 30. This is the fully released position of the tensioning screw and, thereby, the fully extended (initial) position of the valve cartridge block relative to the valve control block. In this initial position, the control surface of the valve cartridge block and the operating surface of the valve control block are not in contact with each other, or at least are not sufficiently pressed against each other as required by the operating state of the valve.

[0095] As the head of the tensioning screw 75 abuts the fixing plate 70, tightening the tensioning screw 75 causes the corresponding sliding member 30 to move in the sliding direction relative to the valve control block 10. More specifically, tightening the tensioning screw 75 pulls the sliding member 30 toward the fixing plate 70. Figures 8a to 8c It can be seen from the order of Figure 8a The initial state in Figure 8b The intermediate state in the tensioning screw is completely tightened Figure 8c In the final state, the continuous operation of the tensioning screw 75 causes the sliding member 30 to slide continuously relative to the valve control block 10 in the sliding direction (in Figures 8a to 8c in the order of ).

[0096] Since the corresponding bracket part 40 is also prevented from sliding in the direction of Figures 8a to 8c , which is the vertical direction), so the movement of the sliding part 30 in the sliding direction is also a movement relative to the bracket part 40. The sliding part 30 and the bracket part 40 are movably connected via a fastening mechanism, which (in this example) is formed by the first through slot 36 and the second through slot 46 together with the pin 60. As already explained, the fastening mechanism (via the inclined through slots) converts the movement of the sliding part in the sliding direction into the movement of the bracket part 40, and thus moves the traction bracket together with the surrounded valve box block in the traction direction. Figures 8a to 8c In the order of, the valve control block moves to the right, thereby making the control surface of the valve box block and the operating surface of the valve control block close to each other. When the first through groove 36 is a matching through groove and the second through groove 46 is an inclined through groove, the principle is the same.

[0097] In summary, the valve cage block 20 may be suitably pressed against the valve control block 10 to provide a functioning valve arrangement.

[0098] The method described above for mounting the valve cartridge block 20 (i.e., functionally connecting it to the valve control block 10) is simple, intuitive, and requires minimal effort. In particular, the time required for assembly and, in particular, for replacing the valve cartridge block is significantly reduced compared to conventional methods of directly securing the valve cartridge block 20 to the valve control block 10 using screws. In addition, the number of components is significantly reduced, for example, from 64 screws to 4 fasteners or screws (one for each sliding component), as in the example discussed above, and no torque wrench is required. In addition, the cost and complexity of this method are significantly reduced compared to hydraulic mounting systems. Finally, any assembly errors are easily noticed, thereby virtually eliminating operator error.

Claims

1. A component comprising: - at least one valve box block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of said valve box block; - a valve control block having an operating surface, the valve control block being configured to control each of the plurality of valves when the operating surface is in close contact with the control surface of the at least one valve cartridge block, the valve control block including at least one sliding groove formed in the operating surface; - at least one sliding member configured to slidably interlock with the at least one sliding groove such that the at least one sliding member is movable relative to the valve control block in a sliding direction parallel to the operating surface; - at least one pulling bracket configured to surround the at least one valve cartridge block and to interact with the at least one sliding component such that sliding movement of the at least one sliding component in the at least one sliding groove causes the pulling bracket to pull the at least one valve cartridge block with its control surface abutting against the operating surface of the valve control block.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein The valve control block includes a plurality of sliding grooves formed in the operating surface, and wherein the assembly comprises: - a plurality of sliding members, each sliding member being configured to slidably interlock with a corresponding sliding groove; and - a plurality of pulling brackets, each pulling bracket being configured to surround the at least one valve cartridge block and to interact with a corresponding one of the sliding components such that sliding movement of the corresponding sliding component in the corresponding sliding groove causes the corresponding pulling bracket to pull the valve cartridge block with its control surface abutting the operating surface of the valve control block.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein The sliding grooves of the plurality of sliding grooves are formed parallel to each other and at equal distances.

4. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein The at least one sliding member comprises two lateral shoulders, wherein the two lateral shoulders are adapted to engage with corresponding undercut recesses formed in corresponding sliding grooves of the valve control block.

5. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein The at least one sliding component comprises a ridge, wherein the ridge comprises a portion of a fastening mechanism, the portion of the fastening mechanism enabling interaction between the sliding component and the pulling bracket, such that sliding movement of the sliding component in the sliding groove along the sliding direction causes the pulling bracket to pull the valve box block, wherein its control surface abuts against the operating surface of the valve control block.

6. The assembly according to claim 5, wherein The at least one pulling bracket comprises a U-shaped beam configured to at least partially receive a spine of a corresponding sliding member, and the U-shaped beam comprises a complementary portion of the fastening mechanism enabling the interaction between the sliding member and the pulling bracket.

7. The assembly according to claim 6, wherein The fastening mechanism is implemented such that one of the sliding member and the pulling bracket includes a sliding surface inclined relative to the sliding direction, and the other includes or accommodates an abutment element to slide abutting against the inclined sliding surface.

8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein The sliding surface is formed by at least one transverse elongated hole, and the abutment element comprises at least one pin adapted to extend through the at least one elongated hole.

9. The assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a tensioning screw to control forced sliding movement of the sliding member relative to the valve control block when the pulling bracket interacts with the sliding member, thereby causing the operating surface of the valve control block surrounded by the pulling bracket to be tightly pulled against the control surface of the valve cage block.

10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The at least one towing bracket comprises: - a bridging rod configured to engage with the at least one sliding member; - a plurality of tension rods connected to the bridging rods by their first ends and extending perpendicular to the bridging rods and substantially parallel to each other; and - a wraparound yoke removably attached to the second ends of the plurality of tension rods, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension rods.

11. The assembly according to claim 10, wherein The at least one traction bracket includes at least two tension rods, and wherein the at least one valve box block includes at least one surrounding slot, the at least one surrounding slot extending through the control surface to the opposite side of the valve box block, so that when the traction bracket surrounds the valve box block, at least one of the at least two tension rods extends through the surrounding slot.

12. The assembly according to claim 1, further comprising an anti-displacement structure, which prevents relative movement of the valve box block and the valve control block with respect to each other at least in the sliding direction when the control surface and the operating surface face each other or contact each other.

13. A method for assembling a valve device, the method comprising: - providing at least one valve box block, said valve box block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of said valve box block; - providing a valve control block having an operating surface, the valve control block being configured to control each of the plurality of valves when the operating surface is in contact with a control surface of the at least one valve cartridge block; - slidably interlocking at least one sliding member with at least one sliding groove formed in the operating surface of the valve control block, so that the at least one sliding member is movable relative to the valve control block in a sliding direction parallel to the operating surface; - surrounding the at least one valve box block with at least one pulling bracket; - engaging the at least one pulling bracket with the at least one sliding member such that movement of the at least one sliding member in the at least one sliding groove causes the at least one pulling bracket to pull the at least one valve cartridge block with its control surface abutting against the operating surface of the valve control block; - Fastening the valve device by sliding the at least one sliding member in the at least one sliding groove, thereby causing the at least one valve cartridge block to be drawn with its control surface against the operating surface of the valve control block.

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