Removable drain valve

Abstract

A valve assembly for controlling fluid flow through a component opening in a component is described. The valve assembly includes a valve body, an annular seal, and a baffle. The valve body has a passage through which fluid may flow. The rigid supporting net is located in the channel. The rigid support network comprises: one or more walls configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-regions; and a plurality of first ribs arranged transverse to the plurality of second ribs and configured to form a mesh opening mesh within each quadrant region. A baffle plate is coupled to the rigid support mesh and is configured to allow one-way fluid flow through the channel. The valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled with the component via the component opening.

Description

[0001] Cross-references

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 524,268, filed on June 30, 2023, and entitled “Removable Drain Valve,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The electronic drive components in electric vehicles (EVs), such as engines, batteries and power electronics, present special challenges for fasteners and functional components such as valves. Fasteners and functional components for the technical aspects of the electric vehicle powertrain are therefore important. Innovative fastener solutions offer the best way to meet the challenges that arise when developing these components, such as electrical insulation, compact design, light weight and corrosion resistance. These also add value through ergonomics or automated assembly.

[0004] EV battery systems typically employ one or more drain valves. Generally speaking, drain valves are used to manage the release of fluids or gases within the battery pack. The main functions of drain valves include, for example, thermal management, safety and ventilation, maintenance and servicing.

[0005] EV batteries generate heat during operation and charging. To mitigate overheating, battery systems typically include cooling mechanisms that may use liquid coolants. Bleed valves allow for the controlled release or replacement of this coolant during maintenance or in the event of a leak. In the event of thermal runaway or internal damage, the battery may release gases or fluids. Bleed valves ensure that these substances can be safely discharged, preventing pressure buildup within the battery pack that could lead to an explosion or fire.

[0006] Valve assemblies are important components in fluid control systems that provide the necessary regulation of fluid flow. Conventional valve assemblies are often subject to structural weaknesses that may compromise the performance and reliability of conventional valve assemblies. There is a need for improved valve assemblies that provide enhanced structural integrity and ensure reliable one-way fluid flow. In fact, the drain valve immediately drains any unwanted water seepage. Therefore, despite the advances to date, there is still a need for improved drain valves, such as removable drain valves. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure generally relates to a valve assembly for discharging fluid from a volume, such as an automotive battery housing and components, substantially as illustrated by and described in conjunction with at least one of the accompanying drawings, and as more fully set forth in the claims. More particularly, the present disclosure generally relates to a discharge valve assembly, particularly for use in an EV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods described herein will become apparent from the following description of specific examples as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar structures. The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the devices, systems, and methods described herein.

[0009] Figure 1a A perspective assembly view of an example exhaust valve system having a valve assembly according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] Figure 1b A perspective assembled view of an example drain valve system is shown with the valve assembly in an unlocked position.

[0011] Figure 1c A perspective assembled view of an example discharge valve system is shown with the valve assembly in a locked position.

[0012] Figure 1d A side assembly view of an example drain valve system is shown.

[0013] Figure 1e A side assembled view of an example drain valve system is shown.

[0014] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A top perspective assembled view and a bottom perspective assembled view of an example valve assembly are shown, respectively.

[0015] Figure 2c and Figure 2d A top plan view and a bottom plan view are shown, respectively, of an example valve assembly.

[0016] Figure 2e to Figure 2h A first side view, a second side view, a third side view, and a fourth side view, respectively, of an example valve assembly are shown.

[0017] Figure 2i and Figure 2j A top perspective assembly view and a bottom perspective assembly view of an example valve assembly are shown, respectively.

[0018] Figure 3a Shows the cutting line AA( Figure 2c ) is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an example valve assembly.

[0019] Figure 3b Shows the cutting line AA( Figure 2c ) is a side cross-sectional view of an example valve assembly.

[0020] Figure 3c A detail of an example valve assembly is shown. Figure 2c)’s top plan view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Unless otherwise expressly stated or clear from the context, reference to singular items should be understood to include plural items, and vice versa. Unless otherwise stated or clear from the context, grammatical conjunctions are intended to express any and all disjunctions and conjunctions of connected clauses, sentences, words, etc. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the description of the range of values ​​herein is not intended to be limited, but refers to any and all values ​​falling within and / or including the range individually, and each individual value within such a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually narrated herein. In the following description, it should be understood that terms such as "first", "second", "top", "bottom", "side", "front", "back" are words of convenience and should not be interpreted as restrictive terms. For example, although in some examples, the first side is positioned adjacent to or close to the second side, the terms "first side" and "second side" do not mean any particular order in which these sides are sorted.

[0022] When accompanied by numerical values, the terms "about", "approximately", "substantially", etc. should be understood to indicate deviations, as understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, for satisfactory operation for the intended purpose. Values ​​and / or ranges of values ​​are provided herein only as examples and do not constitute limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. The use of any and all examples or exemplary language ("for example", "such as", etc.) provided herein is intended only to better illustrate the disclosed examples and does not constitute a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The terms "such as" and "for example" lead to a list with one or more non-limiting examples, instances, or illustrations. Any language in the specification should not be interpreted as indicating that any unclaimed element is essential to the practice of the disclosed examples.

[0023] The term "and / or" refers to any one or more of the multiple items in the list connected by "and / or". As an example, "x and / or y" refers to any element in the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, "x and / or y" means "one or both of x and y". As another example, "x, y and / or z" refers to any element in the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}. In other words, "x, y and / or z" means "one or more of x, y and z".

[0024] The present disclosure discloses a valve assembly for discharging fluid from a volume, such as an automotive battery housing and components, substantially as illustrated by and described in conjunction with at least one of the accompanying drawings, as more fully set forth in the claims. More particularly, the present disclosure generally relates to a removable one-way discharge valve assembly, particularly for use in an EV.

[0025] The features and functions of the disclosed valve assembly provide several distinct advantages. First, it provides a foolproof feature to ensure that the valve assembly can only be assembled in one of two orientations: zero degrees or 180 degrees, thereby simplifying installation and reducing errors. In some examples, the valve structure incorporates four offset walls that, in addition to providing support for the valve assembly, also serve as gripping points for easier manual adjustment. These walls are carefully designed to promote fluid discharge to the valve edge, thereby improving efficiency.

[0026] Additionally, the interface between the valve body and the seal includes one or more anti-torque features that secure the seal during the installation and removal process, thereby ensuring reliability over a long period of time. The benefits of these innovations include intuitive alignment with the panel, ergonomic installation, and clear visual, tactile and / or auditory feedback during assembly. Additionally, the valve assembly achieves high-flow fluid discharge in one direction while effectively sealing against fluid flow in another direction, thereby ensuring optimal performance. Second, the sub-flush design further protects the valve from potential interference with packaging positioned above the panel surface, thereby maintaining functionality and life.

[0027] In one example, a valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component includes: a valve body having a channel through which fluid can flow; a rigid support mesh positioned within the channel, the rigid support mesh including one or more walls and a plurality of first ribs, the one or more walls being configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-areas, the plurality of first ribs being arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and being configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant area; and a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow unidirectional fluid flow through the channel, wherein the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening.

[0028] In another example, a valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component includes: a valve body having a channel through which fluid can flow; a rigid support mesh located within the channel, the rigid support mesh including one or more walls and a plurality of first ribs, the one or more walls being configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-areas, the plurality of first ribs being arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and being configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant area; and a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow unidirectional fluid flow through the channel, wherein the baffle is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow, and wherein the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening.

[0029] In yet another example, a valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component includes: a valve body having a channel through which fluid can flow, wherein the valve body includes a plurality of component locking tabs, each of the plurality of component locking tabs being configured to engage the component opening via a receiver in one of an unlocked position or a locked position; a rigid support mesh positioned within the channel, the rigid support mesh including one or more walls and a plurality of first ribs, the one or more walls being configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-regions, the plurality of first ribs being arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and being configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant region; a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow unidirectional fluid flow through the channel, wherein the baffle is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow, and wherein the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening; and an annular seal configured to form a seal between the valve body and the component opening.

[0030] In some examples, the valve body further includes a plurality of third ribs arranged to further divide each mesh opening into smaller meshes having a plurality of flow openings.

[0031] In some examples, a cross-sectional area of ​​each of the plurality of third ribs is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​each of the plurality of first ribs and the plurality of second ribs.

[0032] In some examples, the damper is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow.

[0033] In some examples, a rigid support mesh provides structural support to the baffle to maintain its position and functionality.

[0034] In some examples, the valve body further includes an annular seal configured to form a seal between the valve body and the opening.

[0035] In some examples, the valve body includes a complex contour, and the annular seal is coupled to the valve body at the complex contour.

[0036] In some examples, the valve body and the rigid support mesh are a unitary component.

[0037] In some examples, the valve body is a rigid component.

[0038] In some examples, the baffle is a flexible member.

[0039] In some examples, the baffle is coupled to the rigid support mesh via pin receivers.

[0040] In some examples, the baffle includes a conical body having a rim at its periphery and an attachment pin at its center.

[0041] In some examples, the attachment pin is aligned with the central axis.

[0042] In some examples, the valve body includes a plurality of component locking tabs, each of the plurality of component locking tabs being configured to engage the component opening via the receiver in one of an unlocked position or a locked position.

[0043] In some examples, the valve body includes a plurality of component attachment features, each of the plurality of component attachment features configured to engage a component on a side opposite the receiver.

[0044] Figure 1a A perspective assembly view of an example exhaust valve system 100 having a valve assembly 106 coupled to a component 102 is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 1b A perspective assembled view of the example exhaust valve system 100 is shown with the valve assembly 106 in the unlocked position, and Figure 1c The valve assembly is shown in the locked position. Figure 1d A side assembly view of an example drain valve system 100 is provided, and Figure 1e A side assembled view is provided.

[0045] The valve assembly 106 of the exhaust valve system 100 is configured to provide a one-way fluid flow through a component opening in the component 102. In various examples, the component opening is shown as a recessed opening 104, but other shapes and configurations are also contemplated. Thus, the valve assembly 106 operates as a check valve to enable fluid to leave the volume, for example, via the recessed opening 104, but prevent fluid from entering the volume via the recessed opening 104. In the illustrated example, once installed, the valve assembly 106 is flush with the component 102.

[0046] In the example shown, if Figure 1c , the component 102 includes, defines, or otherwise provides a recessed opening 104, which is illustrated as a recessed window sized to receive at least a portion of the valve body 116. The recessed opening 104 is configured to receive and securely engage the valve assembly 106. Specifically, the recessed opening 104 includes one or more receivers 108 (e.g., slots, recessed grooves, or other such recessed areas), each of which is designed to accommodate an attachment feature of the valve assembly 106.

[0047] Depending on the application, the component 102 can be made of materials such as metal (or metal alloy), synthetic or semi-synthetic polymer (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc.), composite materials (e.g., fiberglass), or combinations thereof. In one example, the component 102 is an automotive panel. The component 102 can be a component of a vehicle, such as a battery housing, a battery assembly, a door, a pillar (e.g., an A-pillar, a B-pillar, a C-pillar), a dashboard component (e.g., a crossbar, a bracket, a frame), a center console, a fender, a door sill, a sheet metal frame, or the like.

[0048] The illustrated valve assembly 106 includes a valve body 116, an annular seal 118, and a baffle 120. The annular seal 118 may be overmolded or otherwise attached to the valve body 116 in a fixed position, while the baffle 120 is configured to move or flex relative to the valve body 116. To facilitate attachment to the component 102, the valve assembly 106 includes one or more attachment features. In the illustrated example, the one or more attachment features include one or more component locking tabs 110 and one or more component attachment features 202, such as bayonet-type attachment features. Specifically, the illustrated valve assembly 106 includes two component locking tabs 110 and four component attachment features 202. The two component locking tabs 110 are illustrated as being distributed at 180 degrees around the central axis 136, while the four component attachment features 202 are illustrated as being distributed at 90 degrees around the central axis 136.

[0049] The component locking tab 110 (which may be an integrally molded tab or a machined flange) is designed to engage and secure within the recessed opening 104 positioned on the first side of the component 102. In the illustrated example, the component locking tab 110 is designed to be selectively positioned in an unlocked position (first position) or a locked position (second position) in a corresponding receiver 108. For example, the attachment feature 110 is initially positioned in the first position 108a (unlocked position) in the corresponding receiver 108 and then rotated to the second position 108b (locked position).

[0050] The first position 108a and the second position 108b may be demarcated or otherwise segmented by a detent 108c (e.g., a ridge or protrusion) to provide tactile feedback and help maintain the attachment feature 110 in its respective first position 108a or second position 108b. In some examples, the valve assembly 106 is engaged and secured within the recessed opening 104 via a quarter-turn rotational motion (e.g., a 90-degree twist and turn motion) or other indexed rotational motion (e.g., a 10-degree to 45-degree twist and turn motion).

[0051] The component attachment feature 202 is configured to at least pass through or otherwise extend through the recessed opening 104 to engage and secure the component on a second side (i.e., the side opposite the first side) of the component 102. Effectively, when assembled, the portion of the component 102 at or near the recessed opening 104 is sandwiched between the component locking tab 110 and the component attachment feature 202.

[0052] refer to Figure 1a To install the valve assembly 106, the valve assembly 106 is first aligned with the recessed opening 104. Then, as shown in FIG. Figure 1b As shown, as shown by arrow 112, the valve assembly 106 is inserted into the recessed opening 104, thereby positioning it at the first position 108a of the unlocked position. Figure 1c As depicted, the valve assembly 106 rotates about its central axis 136, as indicated by arrow 114. This rotation causes the attachment feature 110 to move through, over, or around the detent 108c and into the second position 108b within the recessed opening 104, thereby securely locking the valve assembly 106 in place.

[0053] The valve body 116 includes a first body portion 116a (shown as a lower portion) and a second body portion 116b (shown as an upper portion). The valve body 116 defines a passage 138 that allows a fluid 140 to flow therethrough. In the example shown, the first body portion 116a includes or defines a component attachment feature 202, while the second body portion 116b includes or defines a component locking tab 110.

[0054] The valve body 116 can be made of one or more rigid materials (such as synthetic or semi-synthetic polymers (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc.), composite materials (e.g., fiberglass), or combinations thereof) using plastic injection technology, additive manufacturing, or other methods. In some examples, the valve body 116 can be manufactured using material extrusion (e.g., fused deposition modeling (FDM), stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), material jetting, binder jetting, powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, VAT photopolymerization, or other additive manufacturing / 3D printing processes). In other examples, the valve body 116 can be made of metal (or metal alloy).

[0055] The baffle 120 is configured to fluidly seal a passage 138 within the exhaust body 116. In some examples, the baffle 120 is configured as a flexible member that can be biased toward or away from the passage 138 to control flow therethrough.

[0056] The discharge body 116 may also incorporate or define a rigid support mesh 126. The rigid support mesh 126 may be positioned within a channel 138 of the discharge body 116 and configured to provide structural support for the baffle 120 when the baffle 120 is installed. The rigid support mesh 126 may be formed integrally with the discharge body 116 (as shown), or formed separately and coupled thereto. As shown, the rigid support mesh 126 defines a central frame 132 including a pin receiver 134. As shown, the central frame 132 and the pin receiver 134 may be positioned at the center of the rigid support mesh 126 to facilitate fixation (e.g., fixed attachment) of the baffle 120. For example, the central frame 132 and the pin receiver 134 may be concentric about a central axis 136. Although shown as having a central frame 132, the central frame 132 may be omitted, and the pin receiver 134 may be formed in different portions of the valve body 116 and / or the rigid support mesh 126.

[0057] Baffle 120 comprises conical body 120a, and this conical body is engineered to obtain optimal fluid dynamics and sealing efficiency.As shown in the figure, conical body 120a can supplement the surface profile of rigid support net 126.Edge 120b can be positioned along the periphery of the base (wide part) of conical body 120a.Edge 120b is configured to form or maintain continuous firm contact with the periphery of passage 138, thereby ensuring reliable fluid sealing.The attachment mechanism of baffle 120 comprises attachment pin 120c, and this attachment pin is made to be firmly engaged with pin receiver 134 in rigid support net 126.Conical body 120a, edge 120b and attachment pin 120c can be formed as a whole with baffle 120 (as shown in the figure), or be formed separately and coupled with baffle 120. Accordingly, the baffle 120 may be fabricated from a single material as a single component or from multiple components (and optionally from multiple different materials) to form the baffle 120 .

[0058] The design of the attachment pin includes a spherical head, which reduces the risk of the attachment pin 120c being pulled out of the pin receiver 134 under operating stress (e.g., fluid pressure). This spherical head enhances the retention strength, thereby ensuring that the baffle 120 is firmly held in place, thereby maintaining the integrity of the seal within the discharge body 116. This configuration ensures that the baffle 120 supported by the rigid support mesh 126 reliably performs its sealing function even under varying fluid pressure and flow conditions. In fact, to form the connection, the attachment pin 120c of the baffle 120 is pushed through the pin receiver 134 of the valve body 116 (via the pin receiver 134 of the center frame 132). Therefore, the attachment pin 120c (e.g., the spherical head) is ductile, allowing it to be compressed and / or deformed so that it can pass through the pin receiver 134.

[0059] An annular seal 118 is positioned around the perimeter of the valve body 116. The annular seal 118 is designed to ensure a fluid tight seal between the valve body 116 and the component 102 (e.g., at, in, or near the recessed opening 104), thereby mitigating fluid leakage and maintaining system integrity. The custom fit between the recessed opening 104 and the valve assembly 106 ensures a secure engagement, thereby preventing unintentional dislodgment or leakage.

[0060] The annular seal 118 and / or the baffle 120 may be made of a foam material, a thermoplastic, a rubber material, etc. Example thermoplastics include polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc. The annular seal 118 may be overmolded and / or formed with the valve body 116 by a two-shot (2k) process. Alternatively, the annular seal 118 and / or the baffle 120 may be formed by a die-cutting process and positioned on the valve body 116. For example, the annular seal 118 may be formed separately and then covered, attached, or otherwise positioned on the valve body, while the baffle 120 may be formed separately and mechanically attached (e.g., via attachment pins 120c).

[0061] Removal of the valve assembly 106 follows the reverse process of the installation process described above; by rotating the valve assembly 106 in the opposite direction (e.g., opposite to the direction of arrow 114), the attachment feature 110 disengages from the receiver 108, allowing for easy extraction. This twist and turn mechanism facilitates safe and secure installation and allows for efficient and straightforward removal for routine maintenance, inspection, or replacement. Applications include automotive hoses, automotive fluid reservoirs, industrial machinery components, and HVAC systems where a fast and reliable sealing, venting, and draining solution is necessary or useful.

[0062] Figure 2a and Figure 2b A top side perspective assembled view and a bottom side perspective assembled view of an example valve assembly 106 are shown, respectively. Figure 2c and Figure 2d Top and bottom plan views of an example valve assembly 106 are presented. Figure 2e to Figure 2h A first side view, a second side view, a third side view, and a fourth side view, respectively, of an example valve assembly 106 are shown. Figure 2i and Figure 2j A top side perspective assembled view and a bottom side perspective assembled view of an example valve assembly 106 are shown. Figure 3a Shows the cutting line AA( Figure 2c ) is a perspective cross-sectional view of an example valve assembly 106 taken from Figure 3b A side cross-sectional view is provided. Figure 3c Detail A of an example valve assembly 106 is shown. Figure 2c )’s top plan view.

[0063] The valve body 116 is designed with a rigid support mesh 126 that is integrated into or positioned in its fluid passage 138. The rigid support mesh 126 can be at least partially supported by a plurality of walls 128. The plurality of walls 128 provide structural support together with the rigid support mesh 126 and can be used as an operator engagement member. In the illustrated example, the plurality of walls 128 are configured to provide enhanced stability of the rigid support mesh 126 within the passage 138. Additionally, the walls 128 are configured to be grasped by an operator, thereby allowing them to twist and rotate the valve assembly 106 relative to the component 102, thereby facilitating easy installation or removal of the valve assembly 106.

[0064] As shown, each of the plurality of walls 128 is attached to an outer perimeter (eg, an annular portion of the second body portion 116b) and extends toward the central axis 136. In the illustrated example, the plurality of walls 128 converge about the central axis 136 and in this case form a central frame 132.

[0065] In the illustrated example, the valve body 116 features four walls 128 within a rigid support mesh 126. The walls are arranged in a manner that effectively divides the fluid passage 138 into four quarter-circle segments (i.e., a four-part design). The walls 128 not only enhance the structural integrity of the valve body 106, but also provide a convenient gripping point for the operator, thereby making manipulation of the valve assembly 106 simple and effective. That is, the operator can manually manipulate the walls 128 via his or her hands or fingers (effectively acting as a thumb-turn feature).

[0066] like Figure 2i and Figure 2j As shown, the interface between the valve body 116 and the annular seal 118 is characterized by a surface having a series of angled peaks and valleys, thereby creating or defining a complex profile 122. These complex surface features produce a corresponding surface pattern 124 on the inner side of the annular seal 118 (e.g., during the manufacturing process), thereby significantly increasing the contact area between the annular seal 118 and the valve body 116. The increased surface area at the interface improves the attachment strength of the annular seal 118, thereby creating a more secure and durable connection. This design optimization ensures that the annular seal 118 maintains its integrity and functionality over a longer period of time, thereby improving the overall reliability of the valve assembly.

[0067] As can be appreciated, the valve body incorporates a rigid support mesh 126 and is coupled to the baffle 120 to allow one-way fluid flow through the valve assembly 106 .

[0068] Baffle 120 is configured to allow one-way fluid flow through channel 138 by blocking channel 138 when fluid flow urges baffle 120 against rigid support mesh 126 , and to open channel 138 (i.e., vent or drain the channel) when fluid flow urges baffle 120 away from rigid support mesh 126 .

[0069] The rigid support mesh 126 supports the baffle 120 and includes a plurality of walls 128 that divide the channel 138 into four quarter-circular areas. Each quarter-circular area is further divided into a grid of mesh openings 302 (shown as quadrilateral openings) using a plurality of first ribs 126a arranged transversely to a plurality of second ribs 126b. Each mesh opening 302 in this grid is further subdivided into a smaller grid of flow openings 130 using a plurality of third ribs 126c arranged to form a plurality of flow openings 130.

[0070] Thus, the valve body 116 generally defines a passage 138 through which fluid may flow, and the rigid support mesh 126 is positioned within the passage 138. The rigid support mesh 126 is configured to provide structural support to the baffle 120 and ensure the integrity of the valve assembly 106.

[0071] In the illustrated example, the wall 128 divides the channel 138 into regions, and the plurality of first ribs 126a and the plurality of second ribs 126b further divide the regions to form a grid of mesh openings 302. The plurality of first ribs 126a and the plurality of second ribs 126b are transverse relative to each other. Each of the mesh openings 302 is illustrated as being further divided into a smaller grid using a plurality of third ribs, thereby creating a plurality of flow openings 130.

[0072] As described above, baffle 120 is coupled to rigid support mesh 126 and is configured to allow one-way fluid flow (via plurality of flow openings 130) through channel 138. Baffle 120 flexes or otherwise moves in response to fluid pressure, opening to allow fluid flow in one direction and closing to prevent backflow.

[0073] The valve body 116 is designed to handle a variety of fluids, including gases and liquids, thereby ensuring reliable performance in different applications. The rigid support mesh 126 within the channel 138 provides a strong structure for the baffle 120, thereby enhancing the overall durability and effectiveness of the valve assembly. The design of the support mesh with its multiple layers of ribs and flow openings optimizes fluid flow while maintaining the necessary support for the baffle. The present disclosure provides a significant improvement over existing valve assemblies, thereby providing enhanced structural integrity and reliable one-way fluid flow.

[0074] Although the present method and / or system has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present method and / or system. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the frames and / or components of the disclosed examples may be combined, divided, rearranged and / or otherwise modified. Therefore, the present method and / or system is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Alternatively, the present method and / or system will include all embodiments that fall within the scope of the appended claims, both literally and according to the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. A valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component, the valve assembly comprising: a valve body having a passage through which a fluid can flow; A rigid support net, the rigid support net is located in the channel, and the rigid support net comprises: one or more walls configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-areas; and a plurality of first ribs arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant; and a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow one-way fluid flow through the channel, Wherein, the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening. 2 . The valve body of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of third ribs arranged to further divide each mesh opening into smaller meshes having a plurality of flow openings.

3. The valve body according to claim 2, wherein: A cross-sectional area of ​​each of the third plurality of ribs is smaller than a cross-sectional area of ​​each of the first plurality of ribs and the second plurality of ribs.

4. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow.

5. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The rigid support mesh provides structural support to the baffle to maintain its position and functionality.

6. The valve body of claim 1, further comprising an annular seal configured to form a seal between the valve body and the opening.

7. The valve body according to claim 6, wherein: The valve body includes a complex outer shape, and the annular seal is coupled to the valve body at the complex outer shape.

8. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The valve body and the rigid support mesh are a unitary component.

9. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The valve body is a rigid component.

10. The valve body according to claim 9, wherein: The baffle is a flexible member.

11. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle is coupled to the rigid support mesh via pin receivers.

12. The valve body according to claim 11, wherein: The baffle includes a conical body having a rim at its periphery and an attachment pin at its center.

13. The valve body according to claim 12, wherein: The attachment pin is aligned with the central axis.

14. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The valve body includes a plurality of component locking tabs, each of the plurality of component locking tabs being configured to engage the component opening via a receiver in one of an unlocked position or a locked position.

15. The valve body according to claim 14, wherein: The valve body includes a plurality of component attachment features, each of the plurality of component attachment features being configured to engage the component on a side opposite the receiver.

16. A valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component, the valve assembly comprising: a valve body having a passage through which a fluid can flow; A rigid support net, the rigid support net is located in the channel, and the rigid support net comprises: one or more walls configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-areas; and a plurality of first ribs arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant; and a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow one-way fluid flow through the channel, wherein the baffle is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow, and Wherein, the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening.

17. The valve body according to claim 16, wherein: The rigid support mesh provides structural support to the baffle to maintain its position and functionality.

18. The valve body of claim 16, further comprising an annular seal configured to form a seal between the valve body and the opening.

19. The valve body according to claim 1, wherein: The baffle is coupled to the rigid support mesh via pin receivers.

20. A valve assembly configured to control fluid flow through a component opening in a component, the valve assembly comprising: a valve body having a passage through which a fluid can flow, wherein the valve body includes a plurality of component locking tabs, each of the plurality of component locking tabs being configured to engage the component opening via a receiver in one of an unlocked position or a locked position; A rigid support net, the rigid support net is located in the channel, and the rigid support net comprises: one or more walls configured to divide the channel into two or more sub-areas; and a plurality of first ribs arranged transversely to the plurality of second ribs and configured to form a grid of mesh openings within each quadrant; a baffle coupled to the rigid support mesh and configured to allow one-way fluid flow through the channel, wherein the baffle is configured to open in response to fluid pressure in one direction, and to close to prevent backflow, and wherein the valve assembly is configured to be removably coupled to the component via the component opening; and An annular seal is configured to form a seal between the valve body and the component opening.

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