Electromagnetic actuator and valve device

Abstract

The invention provides an electromagnetic actuator and a valve device, which can realize simplification of structure, low cost and improvement of functional reliability, and can improve flow of magnetic lines (magnetic flux) to eliminate magnetic saturation so as to obtain large thrust. An electromagnetic actuator according to the present invention comprises: a mover that reciprocates along an axis; a coil for excitation; a shaft fixed to the mover; a first inner yoke movably housing the mover; a second inner yoke that attracts the mover by energizing the coil and movably accommodates the shaft; and an outer yoke that surrounds the coil and is joined to the first inner yoke and the second inner yoke, a first joining region of the first inner yoke and the outer yoke and / or a second joining region of the second inner yoke and the outer yoke having a joining length greater than a plate thickness of the outer yoke in a cross section including the axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electromagnetic actuator using the electromagnetic force of a solenoid as a driving force, and more particularly to an electromagnetic actuator including a mover that reciprocates linearly, an inner yoke and an outer yoke that form a magnetic circuit, and a valve device using the electromagnetic actuator. Background Art

[0002] As an existing electromagnetic actuator, there is known a solenoid device, which includes: a cylindrical fixed iron core; a cylindrical movable iron core (mover) that is movable relative to the fixed iron core; a support tube having a cylindrical guide portion that guides the movable iron core to move back and forth freely; a bobbin arranged around the support tube and a coil wound around the bobbin; and a yoke that surrounds the coil and is connected to the fixed iron core and the support tube (for example, refer to patent document 1).

[0003] In the solenoid device, the yoke is formed into a shape including a cylindrical portion and two circular plate portions continuous at both ends of the cylindrical portion and having a coupling hole in the center. The fixed iron core is embedded in the coupling hole of one of the circular plate portions and coupled, and the support tube is embedded in the coupling hole of the other circular plate portion and coupled. The fixed iron core, the yoke and the support tube constitute a magnetic circuit in which the magnetic lines of force pass through the movable iron core.

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned joint structure, the closer the cylindrical part of the yoke is to the joint hole, the smaller the cross-sectional area becomes, and the magnetic flux (the number of magnetic lines of force) passing through the joint area between one circular plate part and the fixed iron core and the joint area between the other circular plate part and the supporting tube may be limited, that is, magnetic saturation may occur.

[0005] As another electromagnetic actuator, the following actuator is known, which includes: a first magnetic body part (mover) that reciprocates integrally with the plunger; a second magnetic body part (stator) that forms a magnetic circuit; and a coil that is accommodated on the inner side of the second magnetic body part, and the second magnetic body part is formed into a form that includes the following parts, namely: a cylindrical first magnetic intersection part that accommodates the first magnetic body part so that it can reciprocate freely; a second magnetic intersection part that allows the plunger to be inserted so that it can reciprocate freely; and a yoke part that surrounds the coil (for example, refer to patent document 2).

[0006] In the actuator, the yoke portion is formed into a shape including a cylindrical portion and two circular plate portions continuous at both ends of the cylindrical portion and having a coupling hole in the center. The first magnetic intersection portion is embedded in the coupling hole of one of the circular plate portions and coupled, and the second magnetic intersection portion is embedded in the coupling hole of the other circular plate portion and coupled. The second magnetic intersection portion, the cylindrical portion and the first magnetic intersection portion constitute a magnetic circuit that allows magnetic lines of force to pass through the first magnetic body portion.

[0007] However, in the above-mentioned joining structure, as described above, the closer the cylindrical portion of the yoke portion is to the joining hole, the smaller the cross-sectional area becomes, and the magnetic flux passing through the joining area between one of the circular plate portions and the first magnetic intersection portion and the joining area between the other circular plate portion and the second magnetic intersection portion may have boundaries, that is, magnetic saturation may occur.

[0008] Therefore, in the conventional electromagnetic actuator (solenoid device, actuator) as described above, in order to increase the thrust for moving the mover, the number of turns of the coil must be increased, which leads to large size and high cost. Therefore, a structure is desired that can improve the flow of magnetic lines of force (magnetic flux) to eliminate magnetic saturation and obtain the desired thrust without increasing the number of turns of the coil and without causing large size.

[0009] [Prior art literature]

[0010] [Patent Document]

[0011] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-320840

[0012] [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-45950 Summary of the invention

[0013] [Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0014] The present invention is completed in view of the above situation, and its purpose is to provide an electromagnetic actuator and a valve device using the electromagnetic actuator, which can not only simplify the structure, reduce costs, and improve functional reliability, but also improve the flow of magnetic lines (magnetic flux) and eliminate magnetic saturation, thereby obtaining a large thrust.

[0015] [Technical means to solve the problem]

[0016] The electromagnetic actuator of the present invention has the following structure, that is, it includes: a mover, which reciprocates along a prescribed axis; a coil for excitation; a shaft, which is fixed to the mover; a first inner yoke, which accommodates the mover movably; a second inner yoke, which attracts the mover by energizing the coil and accommodates the shaft movably; and an outer yoke, which surrounds the coil and is connected to the first inner yoke and the second inner yoke, and the first connection area between the first inner yoke and the outer yoke and / or the second connection area between the second inner yoke and the outer yoke have a connection length greater than the plate thickness of the outer yoke in a cross-section containing the axis.

[0017] The electromagnetic actuator may have a structure in which the outer yoke includes a cylindrical yoke with or without a bottom and a flat yoke joined to an open end of the cylindrical yoke, the first inner yoke is joined to the cylindrical yoke, and the second inner yoke is joined to the flat yoke.

[0018] In the electromagnetic actuator, the following structure may also be adopted, namely, the first inner magnetic yoke includes a first outer peripheral surface centered on the axis, and a first annular flange portion protruding radially from the first outer peripheral surface, and the cylindrical magnetic yoke includes an inner peripheral surface embedded in the first outer peripheral surface, and an annular joining surface joined to the first annular flange portion in the direction of the axis.

[0019] In the electromagnetic actuator, the following structure can also be adopted, that is, the cylindrical yoke includes a small diameter cylindrical portion, a large diameter cylindrical portion with a larger diameter than the small diameter cylindrical portion, and an annular flat plate portion connecting the small diameter cylindrical portion and the large diameter cylindrical portion, the small diameter cylindrical portion defines the inner circumferential surface, and the annular flat plate portion defines the annular joint surface.

[0020] In the electromagnetic actuator, a structure may be adopted in which a gap is provided between a root region of the first annular flange portion and the cylindrical yoke in the first joint region.

[0021] In the electromagnetic actuator, a structure may be adopted in which the cylindrical yoke is a pressed product obtained by a pressing process.

[0022] In the electromagnetic actuator, the first annular flange may have an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward an annular joining surface of the cylindrical yoke on the side opposite to the annular flat surface joined to the cylindrical yoke.

[0023] In the electromagnetic actuator, the following structure may also be adopted, namely, the second inner magnetic yoke includes a second outer peripheral surface centered on the axis, and a second annular flange portion protruding radially from the second outer peripheral surface, and the flat magnetic yoke includes an interlocking hole defining an inner peripheral surface interlocked with the second outer peripheral surface, and an annular joining surface joined to the second annular flange portion in the direction of the axis.

[0024] In the electromagnetic actuator, the second annular flange may have an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward an annular joining surface of the flat plate yoke on the side opposite to the annular flat surface joined to the flat plate yoke.

[0025] In the electromagnetic actuator, a structure in which the cylindrical yoke includes a flange portion joined to the flat plate yoke may be adopted.

[0026] The electromagnetic actuator may include a bottomed cylindrical tube member that accommodates the mover and the second inner yoke and exposes the shaft to the outside.

[0027] The valve device of the present invention has the following structure, that is, it includes: a shell, which defines an upstream passage and a downstream passage for fluid to pass through, and a valve seat interposed between the upstream passage and the downstream passage; a valve core, which performs reciprocating motion to sit on and disengage relative to the valve seat; and a drive unit, which drives the valve core, wherein the drive unit is an electromagnetic actuator of any of the structures described above and has an outer magnetic yoke including a cylindrical magnetic yoke and a flat magnetic yoke, and the valve core is fixed to the shaft of the electromagnetic actuator.

[0028] In the valve device, the following structure may also be adopted, namely, the downstream side passage includes a first downstream side passage and a second downstream side passage branched from the upstream side passage, the valve seat includes a first valve seat facing the first downstream side passage and a second valve seat facing the second downstream side passage, and the valve core includes a first valve core corresponding to the first valve seat and a second valve core corresponding to the second valve seat, which are arranged to be isolated from each other in the direction of the axis.

[0029] The valve device may also adopt the following structure, that is, when the coil contained in the electromagnetic actuator is not energized, the first valve core is detached from the first valve seat and the second valve core is seated on the second valve seat, and when the coil contained in the electromagnetic actuator is energized, the first valve core is seated on the first valve seat and the second valve core is detached from the second valve seat.

[0030] In the valve device, a structure may be adopted in which the flat plate-shaped yoke of the electromagnetic actuator includes a mounting portion for mounting to an object.

[0031] [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] The electromagnetic actuator of the above structure can achieve a simplified structure, low cost, and improved functional reliability, and can also improve the flow of magnetic lines of force (magnetic flux) to eliminate magnetic saturation, thereby obtaining a large thrust. Moreover, according to the valve device using the electromagnetic actuator of the present invention, it is possible to reduce power consumption and obtain a desired driving force, thereby effectively performing the opening and closing action of the valve core. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Figure 1 This is an external perspective view of a valve device including the electromagnetic actuator (drive unit) according to the first embodiment of the present invention, as viewed from the electromagnetic actuator side.

[0034] Figure 2 This is an external perspective view of the valve device including the electromagnetic actuator (drive unit) according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the side opposite to the electromagnetic actuator.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a valve device including the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment cut along a plane passing through the axis.

[0036] Figure 4It is an exploded perspective view showing the electromagnetic actuator (driving unit) according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment, taken along a section including the axis line.

[0038] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the appearance of a housing constituting a part of the valve device.

[0039] Figure 7 It is an exploded cross-sectional view of a housing constituting a part of the valve device.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing a first joining region between a first inner yoke and an outer yoke (cylindrical yoke) of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 9 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing a second joining region between a second inner yoke and an outer yoke (a flat plate-shaped yoke) of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment.

[0042] Fig.10 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover and the flow of magnetic flux immediately after the coil is energized at the rest position.

[0043] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover and the flow of magnetic flux when the coil is energized and located halfway between the rest position and the operating position.

[0044] Fig.12 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover located at the operating position and the flow of magnetic flux when the coil is energized.

[0045] Fig.13 It is a cross-sectional view showing the open and closed state of the valve body when the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment is located at the rest position.

[0046] Fig.14 It is a cross-sectional view showing the open and closed state of the valve body when the electromagnetic actuator according to the first embodiment is located in the operating position.

[0047] Fig.15 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic actuator according to the second embodiment, taken along a section including the axis line.

[0048] Fig.16 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing a first joining region between a first inner yoke and an outer yoke (cylindrical yoke) of the electromagnetic actuator according to the second embodiment.

[0049] Fig.17 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the second embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover and the flow of magnetic flux immediately after the coil is energized at the rest position.

[0050] Fig.18 This is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the second embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover and the flow of magnetic flux when the coil is energized and located halfway between the rest position and the operating position.

[0051] Fig.19 It is a diagram for explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator according to the second embodiment, and is a partial cross-sectional view showing the mover located at the operating position and the flow of magnetic flux when the coil is energized.

[0052] Fig. 20 It is a cross-sectional view of the electromagnetic actuator according to the third embodiment, taken along a section including the axis line.

[0053] Fig.21 It is a partial cross-sectional view showing a first joining region between a first inner yoke and an outer yoke (cylindrical yoke) of the electromagnetic actuator according to the third embodiment.

[0054] [Explanation of Symbols]

[0055] S: Axis

[0056] 10: Shell

[0057] 10a: Shell body

[0058] 10b: Shell cover

[0059] 11d: First valve seat

[0060] 11e: Second valve seat

[0061] 12a: Upstream passage

[0062] 13a: First downstream passage

[0063] 14a: Second downstream passage

[0064] 20: First valve core

[0065] 30: Second valve core

[0066] 40: Sealing components

[0067] A: Electromagnetic actuator (drive unit)

[0068] 50: Movable

[0069] 51: Outer surface

[0070] 52: Fitting hole

[0071] 53: Spring support

[0072] 54: convex part

[0073] 55: Annular end face

[0074] 60: Axis

[0075] 61: Positioning unit

[0076] 70: First inner yoke

[0077] 71: First outer peripheral surface

[0078] 72: Inner circumference

[0079] 73: First annular flange

[0080] 73a: Annular flat surface

[0081] 73b: Annular cone

[0082] 80: Second inner yoke

[0083] 81: Second outer surface

[0084] 82: Second annular flange

[0085] 82a: Annular flat surface

[0086] 82b: Annular cone

[0087] 83: Concave

[0088] 84: Annular end face

[0089] 85: Spring receiving recess

[0090] 85a: Spring support

[0091] 86: Guide hole

[0092] 90: Cylindrical yoke (outer yoke)

[0093] 91: Small diameter cylinder

[0094] 91a: Inner surface

[0095] 92: Bottom wall

[0096] 93: Large diameter cylinder

[0097] 94: Annular flat plate

[0098] 94a: Annular joint surface

[0099] 95: Flange

[0100] 96: Notch

[0101] 100: Flat yoke (outer yoke)

[0102] 101: Flat Plate

[0103] 101a: Annular joint surface

[0104] 101b: Annular joint surface

[0105] 102: Installation

[0106] 103: Fitting hole

[0107] 103a: Inner circumference

[0108] 110: Force spring

[0109] 120: Coil module

[0110] 121: Spool

[0111] 122: Excitation coil

[0112] 123: Forming Department

[0113] 123a: Connector

[0114] 130: Cylinder member

[0115] 131: Cylinder

[0116] 132: Bottom wall

[0117] 133: Flange

[0118] Sr: Sealing member

[0119] A2: Electromagnetic actuator (drive unit)

[0120] 170: First inner yoke

[0121] 173: First annular flange

[0122] 173a: Annular flat surface

[0123] 173b: Annular cone

[0124] 190: Cylindrical yoke (outer yoke)

[0125] 191: Small diameter cylinder

[0126] 191a: Inner circumference

[0127] 192: Bending part

[0128] C: Gap

[0129] A3: Electromagnetic actuator (drive unit)

[0130] 270: First inner yoke

[0131] 271: First outer peripheral surface

[0132] 273: First annular flange

[0133] 273a: Annular flat surface

[0134] 273b: Annular cone

[0135] 290: Cylindrical yoke (outer yoke)

[0136] 291: Small diameter cylinder

[0137] 291a: Inner surface

[0138] 291b: Annular joint surface DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0139] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0140] The valve device including the electromagnetic actuator of the present invention is suitably used in, for example, a cooling water circulation system of a vehicle, etc., in order to adjust the flow of cooling water as a fluid.

[0141] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the valve device of one embodiment includes a housing 10 , a first valve body 20 and a second valve body 30 as valve bodies, a sealing member 40 , and an electromagnetic actuator A of the first embodiment as a driving unit fixed to the housing 10 .

[0142] The housing 10 is formed of a resin material or the like, and includes a housing body 10 a and a housing cover 10 b .

[0143] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the housing body 10 a includes a cylindrical portion 11 , an upstream duct portion 12 , a first downstream duct portion 13 , a second downstream duct portion 14 , a flange portion 15 , and a cover coupling portion 16 .

[0144] The tubular portion 11 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape centered on the axis S, and includes a side wall 11a, a first opening 11b, a second opening 11c, a first valve seat 11d, a second valve seat 11e, a central chamber 11f, a first operating chamber 11g, and a second operating chamber 11h.

[0145] The first opening 11b is a circular hole centered on the axis S on the inner side of the joint surface 15a of the flange 15 so as to face the first operating chamber 11g, and is formed so that the first valve element 20 can be inserted from one side in the direction of the axis S. The first opening 11b is closed by engaging the electromagnetic actuator A with the sealing member 40 interposed therebetween.

[0146] The second opening 11c is a circular hole centered on the axis S on the inner side of the cover joint 16 so as to face the second operating chamber 11h, and is formed so that the second valve body 30 can be inserted from the other side in the direction of the axis S. The second opening 11c is closed by being joined to the housing cover 10b after the second valve body 30 is assembled.

[0147] The first valve seat 11 d is a region where the first valve body 20 is seated, and is formed as a portion of a conical surface centered on the axis S and as an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward the first opening 11 b .

[0148] The second valve seat 11 e is a region where the second valve body 30 is seated, and is formed as a part of a conical surface centered on the axis S and as an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward the second opening 11 c .

[0149] The central chamber 11f is formed between the first valve seat 11d and the second valve seat 11e in the direction of the axis S, is connected to the upstream passage 12a defined by the upstream pipe portion 12, and also functions as an upstream passage located upstream of the first valve seat 11d and the second valve seat 11e.

[0150] The first operating chamber 11g is formed on the downstream side of the first valve seat 11d. It is the area where the first valve core 20 reciprocates in the direction of the axis S. It is connected to the first downstream side passage 13a defined by the first downstream side pipe portion 13, and also functions as the first downstream side passage located on the downstream side of the first valve seat 11d.

[0151] The second operating chamber 11h is formed on the downstream side of the second valve seat 11e. It is the area where the second valve core 30 reciprocates in the direction of the axis S. It is connected to the second downstream side passage 14a defined by the second downstream side pipe portion 14, and also functions as a second downstream side passage located on the downstream side of the second valve seat 11e.

[0152] The upstream pipe section 12 is a region to which a fluid inlet pipe (here, an inlet pipe constituting a part of a cooling water circulation system) of an applicable object is connected, and defines an upstream passage 12a having a circular cross-section centered on an axis L1 perpendicular to the axis S.

[0153] The first downstream pipe section 13 is a region connected to a fluid outlet pipe of an applicable object (here, an outlet pipe constituting a part of a cooling water circulation system), and defines a first downstream passage 13a having a circular cross-section centered on an axis L2 perpendicular to the axis S.

[0154] The second downstream side pipe section 14 is an area connected to another fluid outlet piping of the applicable object (here, another outlet piping constituting a part of the cooling water circulation system), and defines a second downstream side passage 14a with a circular cross-section centered on the axis L3 perpendicular to the axis S.

[0155] The flange portion 15 is an area for joining and fixing the electromagnetic actuator A, and is formed into a roughly rectangular outline around the first opening portion 11b, and includes a joining surface 15a that is a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, an annular groove 15b for embedding the sealing member 40, a positioning protrusion 15c protruding from the joining surface 15a toward the axis S, and four female threaded holes 15d for screwing the fastening screws b.

[0156] The cover coupling portion 16 is a region coupled to the housing cover 10 b and includes an annular groove 16 a centered around the axis S around the second opening 11 c and an annular joint surface 16 b around the annular groove 16 a .

[0157] The housing cover 10b is coupled to the cover coupling portion 16 to close the second operating chamber 11h, and includes a disc-shaped cover portion 10b1 fitted in the second opening portion 11c, an annular protrusion portion 10b2 fitted in the annular groove 16a, and an annular joint surface 10b3 joined to the annular joint surface 16b.

[0158] When assembling the valve device, the housing cover 10b is fitted into the cover coupling portion 16 of the housing body 10a after the second valve element 30 is fitted into and fixed to the shaft 60 of the electromagnetic actuator A, and is coupled by bonding or welding as necessary.

[0159] like Figure 3 As shown, the first valve element 20 is fitted and fixed at a predetermined position of the shaft 60 of the electromagnetic actuator A, and includes a valve base 21 formed of a metal material such as stainless steel or a resin material and an elastic sealing member 22 molded to cover the valve base 21 .

[0160] The elastic sealing member 22 is formed of a rubber material or the like, and is formed so as to be in close contact with the first valve seat 11 d when the first valve element 20 is located at the valve closing position.

[0161] That is, the first valve core 20 is Fig.13 The rest position shown in FIG. 1 is separated from the first valve seat 11d and the valve is opened. Fig.14 In the operating position shown, the valve is seated on the first valve seat 11d and the valve is closed.

[0162] like Figure 3 As shown, the second valve element 30 is fitted and fixed at a predetermined position of the shaft 60 of the electromagnetic actuator A, and includes a valve base 31 formed of a metal material such as stainless steel or a resin material and an elastic sealing member 32 molded to cover the valve base 31 .

[0163] The elastic sealing member 32 is formed of a rubber material or the like, and is formed so as to be in close contact with the second valve seat 11 e when the second valve element 30 is located at the valve closing position.

[0164] That is, the second valve core 30 is Fig.13 The valve is seated on the second valve seat 11e at the rest position shown in the figure and the valve is closed. Fig.14 In the operating position shown, the valve is released from the second valve seat 11e and the valve is opened.

[0165] That is, the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30 are arranged to be isolated from each other in the direction of the axis S relative to the shaft 60. Through the reciprocating motion of the shaft 60, the first valve core 20 reciprocates in the first operating chamber 11g to sit on and disengage relative to the first valve seat 11d, and the second valve core 30 reciprocates in the second operating chamber 11h to sit on and disengage relative to the second valve seat 11e.

[0166] The sealing member 40 is formed into a disk shape by a rubber material or the like which is elastically deformable in a thin film shape, and is Figure 3 As shown, it includes an annular fitting portion 41 , a central connecting portion 42 , and a communicating hole 43 .

[0167] The communication hole 43 is formed to have a size that prevents foreign matter from passing therethrough, and serves as a vent hole to contribute to the pressure regulating function.

[0168] The sealing member 40 is connected by passing the shaft 60 of the electromagnetic actuator A through the central connecting portion 42 , and the annular fitting portion 41 is fitted into the annular groove 15 b of the housing 10 to engage with the flat yoke 100 of the electromagnetic actuator A to sandwich the same.

[0169] In the assembled state, the sealing member 40 performs a sealing function at the joint interface between the housing 10 and the electromagnetic actuator A, and elastically deforms to move integrally with the shaft 60 to prevent foreign matter in the fluid from intruding into the electromagnetic actuator A. In addition, the sealing member 40 performs a pressure regulating function through the communicating hole 43 when elastically deforming so as not to hinder the movement of the shaft 60.

[0170] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the electromagnetic actuator A includes a mover 50, a shaft 60, a first inner yoke 70, a second inner yoke 80, a cylindrical yoke 90 and a flat yoke 100 as outer yokes, a biasing spring 110, a coil module 120, a cylinder member 130, and a sealing member Sr. In addition, the coil module 120 includes a bobbin 121, an exciting coil 122, and a molded portion 123 in which the bobbin 121 and the coil 122 are embedded.

[0171] The mover 50 functions as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass, and as a movable iron core that moves along the axis S direction when the coil 122 is energized. The mover 50 is formed into a cylindrical shape by machining or forging using free-cutting steel (SUM) or the like. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it includes an outer peripheral surface 51 , a fitting hole 52 , a spring support portion 53 , a convex portion 54 , and an annular end surface 55 .

[0172] The outer peripheral surface 51 is formed as a cylindrical surface centered on the axis S, and is in slidable contact with the inner wall of the tube member 130 .

[0173] The fitting hole 52 is a through hole centered on the axis S, is a region into which one end side region of the shaft 60 is press-fitted, and is formed with an inner diameter slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the shaft 60 .

[0174] The spring support portion 53 is formed as a circular recessed portion centered on the axis S, supports one end portion 111 of the biasing spring 110 , and positions the one end portion 111 in a direction perpendicular to the axis S.

[0175] The convex portion 54 is formed in a truncated cone shape and is formed so as to enter the concave portion 83 of the second inner yoke 80 without contact.

[0176] The annular end surface 55 is formed as a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and faces the annular end surface 84 of the second inner yoke 80 in the axis S direction.

[0177] Furthermore, in order to make the movement of the movable member 50 smooth, for example, a groove extending in the direction of the axis S may be formed on the outer peripheral surface so that the front and rear pressures are adjusted when the movable member 50 moves.

[0178] The shaft 60 is formed of a non-magnetic material, for example, a metal material such as stainless steel or a resin material, and has a cylindrical shape elongated in the direction of the axis S, and includes a positioning portion 61 on the other end side.

[0179] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the positioning portion 61 is formed in a flange shape protruding in the radial direction, and the second valve body 30 is abutted in the axis S direction to be positioned.

[0180] Furthermore, one end side region of the shaft 60 is fitted into the fitting hole 52 and fixed to the movable member 50. Furthermore, the central connecting portion 42 of the sealing member 40 is connected to the shaft 60 at the approximate center in the axis S direction, the first valve core 20 is fixed by fitting to the other end (free end) side closer to the center in the axis S direction, and the second valve core 30 is fixed by fitting to the other end side in abutment with the positioning portion 61. Furthermore, the shaft 60 reciprocates along the axis S direction as a whole with the movable member 50 and the first valve core 20 and the second valve core 30.

[0181] The first inner yoke 70 is formed by machining or forging using wrought iron or the like, and functions as a magnetic path through which magnetic lines of force pass. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it is formed into a cylindrical shape and includes a first outer peripheral surface 71 , an inner peripheral surface 72 , and a first annular flange portion 73 .

[0182] The first outer peripheral surface 71 is formed as a cylindrical surface centered on the axis S and is formed so as to fit the inner peripheral surface 91 a of the small diameter cylindrical portion 91 of the cylindrical yoke 90 and the bobbin 121 of the coil module 120 .

[0183] The inner peripheral surface 72 is formed as a cylindrical surface centered on the axis S, and is formed so as to be fitted with the tubular member 130 .

[0184] The first annular flange portion 73 is formed in a disk shape that protrudes from the first outer peripheral surface 71 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S, and includes an annular flat surface 73 a and an annular tapered surface 73 b .

[0185] The annular flat surface 73 a is a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and is joined to the annular joining surface 94 a of the cylindrical yoke 90 in the axis S direction.

[0186] The annular tapered surface 73 b is formed on the opposite side to the annular flat surface 73 a and is formed so as to gradually expand toward the annular joint surface 94 a of the cylindrical yoke 90 .

[0187] The second inner yoke 80 is formed by machining or forging using wrought iron or the like, and functions as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass, and also functions as a fixed iron core that attracts the mover 50 when the coil 122 is energized. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it is formed into a cylindrical shape and includes a second outer peripheral surface 81 , a second annular flange portion 82 , a recessed portion 83 , an annular end surface 84 , a spring receiving recessed portion 85 , and a guide hole 86 .

[0188] The second outer peripheral surface 81 is formed as a cylindrical surface centered on the axis S, and is formed so that the bobbin 121 of the coil module 120 is fitted through the cylindrical member 130 and the fitting hole 103 of the flat yoke 100 is fitted.

[0189] The second annular flange portion 82 is formed in a disk shape that protrudes from the second outer peripheral surface 81 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S, and includes an annular flat surface 82 a and an annular tapered surface 82 b .

[0190] The annular flat surface 82 a is a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and is joined to the annular joining surface 101 a of the flat yoke 100 in the axis S direction.

[0191] The annular tapered surface 82 b is formed on the side opposite to the annular flat surface 82 a and is formed so as to gradually expand toward the annular joint surface 101 a of the flat yoke 100 .

[0192] The recessed portion 83 is formed in a truncated cone shape and is formed so as to accommodate the raised portion 54 of the movable member 50 in a non-contact manner in the axis S direction.

[0193] The annular end surface 84 is formed as a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and faces the annular end surface 55 of the mover 50 in the axis S direction.

[0194] The spring housing recess 85 is formed to have a smaller diameter than the recess 83 to accommodate the biasing spring 110 , and includes a spring support portion 85 a that supports the other end portion 112 of the biasing spring 110 .

[0195] The guide hole 86 is formed as a cylindrical hole centered on the axis S, and guides the shaft 60 slidably in the axis S direction.

[0196] In order to function as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass, the cylindrical yoke 90 is a cylindrical pressed product having a bottom that is pressed (deep drawn) using a metal plate such as wrought iron of a predetermined thickness. Figure 1 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, it includes a small diameter cylindrical portion 91, a bottom wall 92, a large diameter cylindrical portion 93, an annular flat plate portion 94, a flange portion 95, and a notch portion 96.

[0197] The small diameter cylindrical portion 91 defines an inner circumferential surface 91a centered on the axis S. The first outer circumferential surface 71 of the first inner yoke 70 is fitted into the inner circumferential surface 91a. That is, the first inner yoke 70 is joined to the cylindrical yoke 90 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S via the inner circumferential surface 91a of the small diameter cylindrical portion 91 and fixed.

[0198] The bottom wall 92 is formed to be continuous with the end portion of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 91 in the direction of the axis S, and is arranged in a non-contact manner with the tube member 130 .

[0199] The large-diameter cylindrical portion 93 defines an inner peripheral surface 93 a centered on the axis S. The molded portion 123 of the coil module 120 is fitted into the inner peripheral surface 93 a.

[0200] The annular flat plate portion 94 is formed continuously at the boundary region between the small diameter cylindrical portion 91 and the large diameter cylindrical portion 93 , and defines an annular joint surface 94 a to which the annular flat surface 73 a of the first inner yoke 70 is joined in the axis S direction.

[0201] The flange portion 95 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape and is continuous with the end of the large diameter cylindrical portion 93, and includes four circular holes 95a for passing the fastening screws b. When assembled, the flange portion 95 is joined to the flat yoke 100 to form a magnetic circuit.

[0202] The notch portion 96 is formed so as to expose the connector 123 a of the coil module 120 to the outside.

[0203] In order to be joined to the open end of the cylindrical yoke 90 and function as a magnetic path for passing magnetic lines of force, the flat yoke 100 is formed by stamping and bending a metal plate such as wrought iron having a predetermined plate thickness. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it includes a substantially rectangular flat plate portion 101 , a mounting portion 102 bent from the flat plate portion 101 and extending in the direction of the axis S, and a fitting hole 103 .

[0204] The flat plate portion 101 includes an annular joint surface 101a that tightly joins the annular flat surface 82a of the second inner yoke 80 in the axis S direction, an annular joint surface 101b that tightly joins the flange portion 95 of the cylindrical yoke 90 in the axis S direction, and four circular holes 101c for passing the fastening screws b.

[0205] The mounting portion 102 is used to mount the valve device on an applicable object, and includes two circular holes 102a through which fixing bolts pass.

[0206] The fitting hole 103 is a region into which the second outer peripheral surface 81 of the second inner yoke 80 fits, and defines a cylindrical inner peripheral surface 103a centered on the axis S. The inner peripheral surface 103a is closely joined to the second outer peripheral surface 81 of the second inner yoke 80 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S.

[0207] That is, the second inner yoke 80 is joined to and fixed to the flat plate-like yoke 100 in the radial direction perpendicular to the axis S via the inner peripheral surface 103 a of the fitting hole 103 .

[0208] The urging spring 110 is a compression type coil spring, and is arranged to be compressed in the direction of the axis S, with one end 111 abutting against the spring support portion 53 of the mover 50 and the other end 112 abutting against the spring support portion 85a of the second inner yoke 80. The urging spring 110 urges the mover 50 in the direction of the axis S toward the rest position.

[0209] As described above, the coil module 120 includes the bobbin 121 , the exciting coil 122 , and the forming portion 123 .

[0210] The bobbin 121 is formed using a resin material such as Figure 5 As shown, it includes a small diameter cylindrical portion 121a , a large diameter cylindrical portion 121b , an annular step portion 121c , a flange portion 121d , a flange portion 121e , and a recessed portion 121f , with the axis S being the center.

[0211] The small diameter cylindrical portion 121 a is formed so that the cylindrical member 130 is fitted inside the small diameter cylindrical portion 121 a and the coil 122 is wound around the small diameter cylindrical portion 121 a .

[0212] The large-diameter cylindrical portion 121 b is formed so that the first outer peripheral surface 71 of the first inner yoke 70 fits inside the large-diameter cylindrical portion 121 b and the coil 122 is wound around the outside thereof.

[0213] The annular step portion 121 c abuts against an end surface of the first inner yoke 70 to be positioned along the axis S direction in an assembled state.

[0214] The flange portion 121 d is formed in an annular shape centered on the axis S and is arranged to face the first annular flange portion 73 (annular tapered surface 73 b ) of the first inner yoke 70 and the annular flat plate portion 94 of the cylindrical yoke 90 in the axis S direction.

[0215] The flange portion 121 e is formed in an annular shape centered on the axis S, defines an annular tapered surface 121 e 1 at its root region, and is arranged to face the flat yoke 100 in the axis S direction and to support the flange portion 133 of the tubular member 130 .

[0216] The recessed portion 121f is formed to accommodate the flange portion 133 of the tubular member 130 and to accommodate the seal member Sr.

[0217] The coil 122 is for exciting the magnet to generate magnetic force by passing electricity, is wound around the small diameter cylindrical portion 121 a and the large diameter cylindrical portion 121 b of the bobbin 121 , and is connected to two terminals 122 a .

[0218] The molded portion 123 is molded using a resin material, and is formed so as to cover the entirety in a state where the coil 122 is wound around the bobbin 121 and the terminal 122 a is connected, and the terminal 122 a is exposed in the connector 123 a .

[0219] The cylinder member 130 is formed by pressing (deep drawing) a metal plate made of a thin plate of non-magnetic material such as stainless steel into a bottomed cylindrical shape. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, it includes a cylindrical portion 131 centered on the axis S, a bottom wall 132 , and a flange portion 133 .

[0220] The cylindrical portion 131 is formed such that the outer peripheral surface 51 of the mover 50 is slidably inserted therein and the second outer peripheral surface 81 of the second inner yoke 80 is engaged therewith, and the inner peripheral surface 72 of the first inner yoke 70 and the small diameter cylindrical portion 121a of the bobbin 121 of the coil module 120 are engaged therewith.

[0221] The bottom wall 132 is arranged so that the mover 50 and the shaft 60 do not contact each other in the rest state.

[0222] The flange portion 133 abuts against the flange portion 121 e of the bobbin 121 of the coil module 120 to be positioned in the axis S direction.

[0223] The cylinder member 130 accommodates the mover 50 and the second inner yoke 80 in the assembled state and exposes the shaft 60 fixed to the mover 50 to the outside, here, to the internal space of the housing 10 (the first operating chamber 11g, the central chamber 11f, and the second operating chamber 11h).

[0224] That is, the cylindrical member 130 has the function of slidably guiding the movable member 50 and sealing to separate the inner region where the movable member 50 moves from the outer region to prevent the fluid and the like from leaking to the outside.

[0225] The sealing member Sr is an O-ring formed of a rubber material, and is interposed between the flange portion 133 of the cylindrical member 130 and the flat yoke 100 in the assembled state to seal the flange portion 133 and prevent the fluid or the like from leaking to the outside.

[0226] As described above, in the structure including the first inner yoke 70 and the outer yoke (the cylindrical yoke 90 and the flat yoke 100), Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the first joining region between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90 is a joining region Ca between the first outer peripheral surface 71 and the inner peripheral surface 91a. 11 The bonding area Ca with the annular flat surface 73a and the annular bonding surface 94a 12 .

[0227] exist Figure 8 In the cross section including the axis S shown in FIG. 1 , the thickness of the cylindrical yoke 90 is T, and the joining area Ca is 11 The joining length in the direction of the axis S is Hd1, and the joining area Ca 12 When the joining length in the radial direction is Hs1, the connection is formed so as to satisfy the relationship of T<(Hd1+Hs1).

[0228] That is, the first joining region between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90 as the outer yoke has a joining length (Hd1+Hs1) greater than the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 90 in the cross section including the axis S. Accordingly, compared with the case where the joining region between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90 is simply the joining length of the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 90, a larger joining length (Hd1+Hs1) can be obtained, thereby reducing magnetic resistance (increasing magnetic permeance). As a result, in the first joining region, the magnetic flux generated by the energization of the coil 122 can be effectively used without causing magnetic saturation.

[0229] Furthermore, as the joining area between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90, a first annular flange portion 73 is provided, thereby increasing the magnetic path area of ​​the joining interface and shortening the magnetic path, which effectively contributes to the reduction of magnetic resistance (increase of magnetic permeance). In particular, by providing the first annular flange portion 73, when the first inner yoke 70 is fixed to the cylindrical yoke 90, the first outer peripheral surface 71 can be fitted to the inner peripheral surface 91a to be positioned in the radial direction, and the annular flat surface 73a can be joined to the annular joint surface 94a to be positioned in the direction of the axis S, and even if it is only by fitting without welding, etc., it can be firmly fixed, thereby ensuring mechanical rigidity. Furthermore, an annular tapered surface 73b is provided on the side opposite to the annular flat surface 73a of the first annular flange portion 73, thereby removing the area that is difficult to function as a magnetic path to achieve weight reduction and miniaturization, and ensuring the configuration space of the bobbin 121.

[0230] Furthermore, as described above, in the structure including the second inner yoke 80 and the outer yoke (the cylindrical yoke 90 and the flat yoke 100), Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , the second joining region between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100 is a joining region Ca between the second outer peripheral surface 81 and the inner peripheral surface 103 a. 21 The bonding area Ca with the annular flat surface 82a and the annular bonding surface 101a 22 .

[0231] exist Fig. 9 In the cross section including the axis S shown in FIG. 1 , the plate thickness of the flat yoke 100 is T, and the joint area Ca is 21 The joining length in the direction of the axis S is Hd2, and the joining area Ca 22 When the joining length in the radial direction is Hs2, it is formed so as to satisfy the relationship of T<(Hd2+Hs2).

[0232] That is, the second joining region between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100 as the outer yoke has a joining length (Hd2+Hs2) greater than the plate thickness T of the flat yoke 100 in the cross section including the axis S. Thus, a greater joining length (Hd2+Hs2) can be obtained compared to a case where the joining region between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100 is simply the joining length of the plate thickness T of the flat yoke 100, thereby reducing magnetic resistance (increasing magnetic permeance). As a result, in the second joining region, the magnetic flux generated by the energization of the coil 122 can be effectively utilized without causing magnetic saturation.

[0233] Furthermore, as the joining area between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100, a second annular flange portion 82 is provided, thereby increasing the magnetic path area of ​​the joining interface and shortening the magnetic path, which effectively contributes to the reduction of magnetic resistance (increase of magnetic permeance). In particular, by providing the second annular flange portion 82, when the second inner yoke 80 is fixed to the flat yoke 100, the second outer peripheral surface 81 can be fitted to the inner peripheral surface 103a to be positioned in the radial direction, and the annular flat surface 82a can be joined to the annular joint surface 101a to be positioned in the axis S direction, and even if it is only by means of a fitting connection without using welding, etc., it can be firmly fixed, thereby ensuring mechanical rigidity. Furthermore, an annular tapered surface 82b is provided on the side of the second annular flange portion 82 opposite to the annular flat surface 82a, thereby removing the area that is difficult to function as a magnetic path to achieve weight reduction and miniaturization, and ensuring the configuration space of the bobbin 121.

[0234] Next, refer to Figures 10 to 12 , while explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator A having the above structure.

[0235] First, in the rest state where the coil 122 is not energized, the shaft 60 and the mover 50 are positioned at a position where the second valve core 30 is seated on the second valve seat 11e by the urging force of the urging spring 110 ( Fig.13 ) corresponding to the rest position. At the rest position, the movable member 50 and the shaft 60 are maintained in a state of not contacting the bottom wall 132 of the cylinder member 130.

[0236] Just after the coil 122 is energized in the rest state, Fig.10 That is, in the first joint region between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90, the magnetic lines of force through the annular flat plate portion 94 flow from the inner peripheral surface 91a through the first outer peripheral surface 71 into the movable member 50, and flow from the annular joint surface 94a through the annular flat surface 73a of the first annular flange portion 73 into the movable member 50.

[0237] Furthermore, the liquid flows from the outer edge region of the front end of the convex portion 54 into the inner edge region of the concave portion 83 between the movable member 50 and the second inner yoke 80 .

[0238] Moreover, in the second joining area between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100, the magnetic lines of force passing through the second inner yoke 80 flow from the second outer peripheral surface 81 to the flat yoke 100 via the inner peripheral surface 103a, and flow from the annular flat surface 82a of the second annular flange portion 82 to the flat yoke 100 via the annular joining surface 101a.

[0239] Then, the magnetic lines of force flowing into the flat plate-like yoke 100 flow from the annular joint surface 101b through the flange portion 95 into the cylindrical yoke 90. A closed magnetic circuit is formed by the flow of the magnetic lines of force.

[0240] Then, when the mover 50 and the shaft 60 move a predetermined amount along the axis S direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 As shown, the magnetic lines of force flowing into the mover 50 flow from the outer peripheral surface on the front end side of the convex portion 54 of the mover 50 into the inner peripheral surface on the front end side of the concave portion 83 of the second inner yoke 80 .

[0241] Furthermore, magnetic lines of force flow in the first joining region, the second joining region, and other regions in the same manner as described above.

[0242] Furthermore, the mover 50 and the shaft 60 overcome the biasing force of the biasing spring 110 and reach the operating position where the movement in the direction of the axis S is the largest. The operating position corresponds to the position where the first valve core 20 is seated on the first valve seat 11d ( Fig.14 In the operating position, the convex portion 54 of the mover 50 is maintained in a non-contact state with the concave portion 83 of the second inner yoke 80 .

[0243] Moreover, at the operating position, the magnetic lines of force flowing into the mover 50 are as follows: Fig.12 As shown, the outer peripheral surface of the convex portion 54 and the annular end surface 55 of the driven element 50 flow into the inner peripheral surface of the concave portion 83 and the annular end surface 84 of the second inner yoke 80 .

[0244] Then, magnetic lines of force flow in the first joint region, the second joint region, and other regions in the same manner as described above.

[0245] On the other hand, when the coil 122 is de-energized, the mover 50 and the shaft 60 are moved to the position where the coil 122 is de-energized by the biasing force of the biasing spring 110. Fig.13 The machine stops at the rest position shown.

[0246] As described above, in the first joining region between the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90 and the second joining region between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic path through which the magnetic lines of force can pass is increased by the first annular flange portion 73 and the second annular flange portion 82, and the magnetic path is shortened, thereby reducing the magnetic resistance (increasing the magnetic permeance). As a result, the magnetic saturation in the magnetic path can be eliminated, and the generated magnetic lines of force (magnetic flux) can be effectively used to obtain the desired electromagnetic force (thrust).

[0247] Next, the operation of the valve device according to one embodiment will be described.

[0248] First, when the coil 122 is not energized, Fig.13 As shown, the mover 50 and the shaft 60 are positioned at the rest position by the biasing force of the biasing spring 110. In the rest position, the first valve element 20 is separated from the first valve seat 11d and is in the valve open state, and the second valve element 30 is seated on the second valve seat 11e and is in the valve closed state.

[0249] Therefore, the fluid flowing in from the upstream passage 12a flows into the first downstream passage 13a through the central chamber 11f and the first operation chamber 11g.

[0250] On the other hand, when the coil 122 is energized, magnetic lines of force flowing as described above are generated. Fig.14 As shown, the mover 50 is attracted by the second inner yoke 80, and the mover 50 and the shaft 60 are positioned to the operating position against the biasing force of the biasing spring 110. In the operating position, the first valve element 20 is seated on the first valve seat 11d to be in a closed valve state, and the second valve element 30 is separated from the second valve seat 11e to be in an open valve state.

[0251] Therefore, the fluid flowing in from the upstream passage 12a flows into the second downstream passage 14a through the central chamber 11f and the second operation chamber 11h.

[0252] By switching the coil 122 between energization and de-energization, the fluid can flow from the first downstream passage 13a to the external fluid delivery pipe, or from the second downstream passage 14a to another external fluid delivery pipe.

[0253] Here, by using the electromagnetic actuator A having the above-described structure as the valve element driving means, it is possible to obtain a desired driving force while reducing power consumption, thereby enabling the valve element to be opened and closed reliably and smoothly.

[0254] Fig.15The electromagnetic actuator A2 of the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that a first inner yoke 170 and a cylindrical yoke 190 are used instead of the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90. The same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their description is omitted.

[0255] The electromagnetic actuator A2 of the second embodiment includes a mover 50 , a shaft 60 , a first inner yoke 170 , a second inner yoke 80 , a cylindrical yoke 190 and a flat yoke 100 as outer yokes, an urging spring 110 , a coil module 120 , a cylindrical member 130 , and a sealing member Sr.

[0256] The first inner yoke 170 is formed by machining or forging using wrought iron or the like, and functions as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass. Fig.15 As shown, it is formed into a cylindrical shape and includes a first outer peripheral surface 71 , an inner peripheral surface 72 , and a first annular flange portion 173 .

[0257] The first annular flange portion 173 is formed in a disk shape that protrudes from the first outer peripheral surface 71 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S, and includes an annular flat surface 173 a and an annular tapered surface 173 b .

[0258] The annular flat surface 173 a is a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and is joined to the annular joining surface 94 a of the cylindrical yoke 190 in the axis S direction.

[0259] The annular tapered surface 173 b is formed on the opposite side to the annular flat surface 173 a and is formed so as to gradually expand toward the annular joint surface 94 a of the cylindrical yoke 190 .

[0260] Here, the first annular flange portion 173 is formed larger in the radial direction than the first annular flange portion 73 of the first embodiment.

[0261] In order to function as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass, the cylindrical yoke 190 is a pressed product formed by pressing (deep drawing) a metal plate such as wrought iron having a predetermined plate thickness into a bottomless cylindrical shape. Fig.15 As shown, it includes a small diameter cylindrical portion 191, a curved portion 192, a large diameter cylindrical portion 93, an annular flat plate portion 94, a flange portion 95, and a notch portion 96.

[0262] The small diameter cylindrical portion 191 defines an inner circumferential surface 191a centered on the axis S. The first outer circumferential surface 71 of the first inner yoke 170 is fitted into the inner circumferential surface 191a. That is, the first inner yoke 170 is joined to the cylindrical yoke 190 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S via the inner circumferential surface 191a of the small diameter cylindrical portion 191 and fixed.

[0263] The curved portion 192 is formed by deep drawing in the inner region where the small diameter cylindrical portion 191 and the annular flat plate portion 94 are continuous, and has an angle R ( Fig.16 ) is formed in the way of.

[0264] Therefore, when the first inner yoke 170 is assembled to the cylindrical yoke 190, a gap C is provided between the base region of the first annular flange portion 173 and the cylindrical yoke 190. The gap C is provided to increase magnetic resistance and make it difficult for magnetic lines of force to pass through.

[0265] As a result, the small-diameter cylindrical portion 191 functions not as a magnetic circuit but as a fixing portion for fitting and fixing the first inner yoke 170 .

[0266] As described above, in the structure including the first inner yoke 170 and the outer yoke (cylindrical yoke 190), Fig.16 As shown, the first joining region between the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 is a joining region Ca between the first outer peripheral surface 71 and the inner peripheral surface 191a. 11 The bonding area Ca with the annular flat surface 173a and the annular bonding surface 94a 12 .

[0267] exist Fig.16 In the cross section including the axis S shown in FIG. 1 , the thickness of the cylindrical yoke 190 is T, and the joining area Ca is 12 When the joining length in the radial direction is Hs1, it is formed so as to satisfy the relationship of T<Hs1.

[0268] That is, the first joining region of the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 as the outer yoke has a joining length Hs1 greater than the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 190 in the cross section including the axis S. Thus, a greater joining length Hs1 can be obtained compared to a case where the joining region of the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 is simply the joining length of the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 190, so that the magnetic resistance can be reduced (the magnetic permeance can be increased). As a result, in the first joining region, the magnetic flux generated by the energization of the coil 122 can be effectively used without causing magnetic saturation.

[0269] Furthermore, the first annular flange portion 173 is provided as the joining region between the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 , thereby increasing the magnetic path area of ​​the joining interface and shortening the magnetic path, which effectively contributes to reducing magnetic resistance (increasing magnetic permeance).

[0270] In particular, by providing the first annular flange portion 173, when the first inner yoke 170 is fixed to the cylindrical yoke 190, the first outer peripheral surface 71 can be engaged with the inner peripheral surface 191a to be positioned in the radial direction, and the annular flat surface 173a can be joined to the annular joint surface 94a to be positioned in the direction of the axis S. Even if it only relies on the combination of engagement without using welding, etc., it can be firmly fixed, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the machine.

[0271] Furthermore, an annular tapered surface 173 b is provided on the side of the first annular flange portion 173 opposite to the annular flat surface 173 a , thereby removing a region that is difficult to function as a magnetic circuit to achieve weight reduction and miniaturization while ensuring a configuration space for the bobbin 121 .

[0272] In particular, by providing the gap C, the magnetic field lines do not pass through the joint area Ca between the first outer peripheral surface 71 and the inner peripheral surface 191a. 11 , but actively passes through the bonding area Ca of the annular flat surface 173a and the annular bonding surface 94a 12 As a result, the magnetic path can be further shortened, thereby reducing magnetic resistance (increasing magnetic permeance).

[0273] As a result, in the first joint region, the magnetic flux generated by energization of the coil 122 can be effectively utilized without causing magnetic saturation.

[0274] Furthermore, since the cylindrical yoke 190 has a bottomless shape, it is possible to achieve a simplified structure, a smaller size, and a lighter weight, as compared to a cylindrical yoke with a bottom.

[0275] Next, refer to Figures 17 to 19 , while explaining the operation of the electromagnetic actuator A2 having the above structure. In the rest state where the coil 122 is not energized, the operation is the same as that of the first embodiment described above.

[0276] Just after the coil 122 is energized in the rest state, Fig.17 That is, in the first joint region between the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 , the magnetic lines of force passing through the annular flat plate portion 94 flow from the annular joint surface 94 a through the annular flat surface 173 a of the first annular flange portion 173 into the mover 50 .

[0277] Furthermore, the second joining region between the mover 50 and the second inner yoke 80 and between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

[0278] Then, the magnetic lines of force flowing into the flat yoke 100 flow from the annular joint surface 101b through the flange portion 95 into the cylindrical yoke 190. A closed magnetic circuit is formed by the flow of the magnetic lines of force.

[0279] Then, when the mover 50 and the shaft 60 move a predetermined amount along the axis S direction, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 As shown, the magnetic flux flowing into the mover 50 flows from the outer peripheral surface of the front end side of the convex portion 54 of the mover 50 into the inner peripheral surface of the concave portion 83 of the second inner yoke 80. The magnetic flux flows in the first joint area, the second joint area and other areas in the same manner as described above.

[0280] Furthermore, the mover 50 and the shaft 60 overcome the force of the force spring 110 and reach the operating position where they move the most in the direction of the axis S. The operating position corresponds to the position where the first valve core 20 is seated on the first valve seat 11d, and the convex portion 54 of the mover 50 is maintained in a state of not contacting the concave portion 83 of the second inner magnetic yoke 80. The magnetic lines of force flowing into the mover 50 are as follows. Fig.19 As shown, the outer circumferential surface and annular end surface 55 of the convex portion 54 of the movable element 50 flow into the inner circumferential surface and annular end surface 84 of the concave portion 83 of the second inner yoke 80. Also, magnetic lines of force flow in the first joint region, the second joint region, and other regions in the same manner as described above.

[0281] On the other hand, when the coil 122 is de-energized, the mover 50 and the shaft 60 are moved to the position where the coil 122 is de-energized by the biasing force of the biasing spring 110. Fig.13 The machine stops at the rest position shown.

[0282] As described above, in the first joining region between the first inner yoke 170 and the cylindrical yoke 190 and the second joining region between the second inner yoke 80 and the flat yoke 100, the cross-sectional area of ​​the magnetic path through which the magnetic lines of force can pass is increased by the first annular flange portion 173 and the second annular flange portion 82, and the magnetic path is shortened, thereby reducing the magnetic resistance (increasing the magnetic permeance). As a result, the magnetic saturation in the magnetic path can be eliminated, and the generated magnetic lines of force (magnetic flux) can be effectively used to obtain the desired electromagnetic force (thrust).

[0283] Fig. 20 and Fig.21 The electromagnetic actuator A3 of the third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that a first inner yoke 270 and a cylindrical yoke 290 are used instead of the first inner yoke 70 and the cylindrical yoke 90 . The same reference numerals are used for the same structures as those of the first embodiment and the description thereof is omitted.

[0284] The electromagnetic actuator A3 of the third embodiment includes a mover 50 , a shaft 60 , a first inner yoke 270 , a second inner yoke 80 , a cylindrical yoke 290 and a flat yoke 100 as outer yokes, an urging spring 110 , a coil module 120 , a cylindrical member 130 , and a sealing member Sr.

[0285] The first inner yoke 270 is formed by machining or forging using wrought iron or the like, and functions as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass. Fig. 20 As shown, it is formed in a cylindrical shape and includes a first outer peripheral surface 271 , an inner peripheral surface 72 , and a first annular flange portion 273 .

[0286] The first outer peripheral surface 271 is formed as a cylindrical surface centered on the axis S and is formed so as to be fitted with the inner peripheral surface 291 a of the small diameter cylindrical portion 291 of the cylindrical yoke 290 and the bobbin 121 of the coil module 120 .

[0287] The first annular flange portion 273 is formed in a disk shape that protrudes from the first outer peripheral surface 271 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S, and includes an annular flat surface 273 a and an annular tapered surface 273 b .

[0288] The annular flat surface 273 a is a flat surface perpendicular to the axis S, and is joined to the annular joining surface 291 b of the cylindrical yoke 290 in the axis S direction.

[0289] The annular tapered surface 273 b is formed on the opposite side to the annular flat surface 273 a and is formed so as to gradually expand toward the annular joint surface 291 b of the cylindrical yoke 290 .

[0290] In order to function as a magnetic circuit through which magnetic lines of force pass, the cylindrical yoke 290 is a pressed product formed by pressing (deep drawing) a metal plate such as wrought iron having a predetermined plate thickness into a bottomless cylindrical shape. Fig. 20 As shown, it includes a small-diameter cylindrical portion 291 , a large-diameter cylindrical portion 93 , an annular flat plate portion 294 , a flange portion 95 , and a notch portion 96 .

[0291] The small diameter cylindrical portion 291 defines an inner circumferential surface 291a and an annular joint surface 291b centered on the axis S. The first outer circumferential surface 271 of the first inner yoke 270 is fitted into the inner circumferential surface 291a. That is, the first inner yoke 270 is joined to the cylindrical yoke 290 in a radial direction perpendicular to the axis S via the inner circumferential surface 291a of the small diameter cylindrical portion 291 and fixed.

[0292] Furthermore, in the axis S direction, the annular flat surface 273 a of the first annular flange portion 273 of the first inner yoke 270 is joined to the annular joining surface 291 b .

[0293] As described above, in the structure including the first inner yoke 270 and the outer yoke (the cylindrical yoke 290 and the flat yoke 100), Fig.21 As shown, the first bonding area between the first inner yoke 270 and the cylindrical yoke 290 is a bonding area Ca between the first outer peripheral surface 271 and the inner peripheral surface 291a. 11The bonding area Ca with the annular flat surface 273a and the annular bonding surface 291b 12 .

[0294] exist Fig.21 In the cross section including the axis S shown in FIG. 1 , the thickness of the cylindrical yoke 290 is T, and the joining area Ca is 11 The joining length in the direction of the axis S is Hd1, and the joining area Ca 12 When the joining length in the radial direction is Hs1, the connection is formed so as to satisfy the relationship of T<(Hd1+Hs1).

[0295] That is, the first joining region between the first inner yoke 270 and the cylindrical yoke 290 as the outer yoke has a joining length (Hd1+Hs1) greater than the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 290 in the cross section including the axis S. Thus, a greater joining length (Hd1+Hs1) can be obtained compared to a case where the joining region between the first inner yoke 270 and the cylindrical yoke 290 is simply the joining length of the plate thickness T of the cylindrical yoke 290, and thus the magnetic resistance can be reduced (the magnetic permeance can be increased).

[0296] As a result, in the first joint region, the magnetic flux generated by energization of the coil 122 can be effectively utilized without causing magnetic saturation.

[0297] Furthermore, a first annular flange portion 273 is provided as a joining region between the first inner yoke 270 and the cylindrical yoke 290 , thereby increasing the magnetic path area of ​​the joining interface and shortening the magnetic path, which effectively contributes to a reduction in magnetic resistance (an increase in magnetic permeance).

[0298] In particular, by providing the first annular flange portion 273, when the first inner yoke 270 is fixed to the cylindrical yoke 290, the first outer peripheral surface 271 can be engaged with the inner peripheral surface 291a to be positioned in the radial direction, and the annular flat surface 273a can be engaged with the annular joint surface 94a to be positioned in the direction of the axis S. Even if it only relies on the engagement without using welding, it can be firmly fixed, thereby ensuring the rigidity of the machine.

[0299] Furthermore, an annular tapered surface 273 b is provided on the side of the first annular flange portion 273 opposite to the annular flat surface 273 a , thereby removing a region that is difficult to function as a magnetic circuit to achieve weight reduction and miniaturization while ensuring the configuration space of the bobbin 121 .

[0300] Furthermore, since the cylindrical yoke 290 has a bottomless shape, it is possible to achieve a simplified structure, a smaller size, and a lighter weight, as compared to a cylindrical yoke with a bottom.

[0301] In the above-described embodiment, a structure including a cylindrical yoke 90, a cylindrical yoke 190, a cylindrical yoke 290 and a flat yoke 100 as an outer yoke is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. As long as the first joining area between the first inner yoke and the outer yoke or the second joining area between the second inner yoke and the outer yoke is of the structure of the present invention, an outer yoke in other forms may also be used.

[0302] In the above embodiment, a structure is shown in which a first joining area between the first inner yoke 70, the first inner yoke 170, the first inner yoke 270 and the outer yoke (cylindrical yoke 90, cylindrical yoke 190, cylindrical yoke 290) and a second joining area between the second inner yoke 80 and the outer yoke (flat yoke 100) have a joining length greater than the plate thickness T of the outer yoke in a cross section including the axis S, but this is not limited to this, and only one of the first joining area and the second joining area may be in the form of the structure of the present invention.

[0303] In the above embodiment, the sealing member 40 having a structure similar to a diaphragm is used as a constituent element of the valve device to prevent foreign matter in the fluid from intruding into the electromagnetic actuator A, electromagnetic actuator A2, and electromagnetic actuator A3, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and a lip seal, for example, may be embedded in the end of the guide hole 86 of the second inner yoke to seal the periphery of the shaft 60. In this way, the pressure of the fluid does not act on the movable part, so that the mover and the valve core can be driven with a smaller electromagnetic force.

[0304] As described above, the electromagnetic actuator of the present invention can not only achieve structural simplification, low cost, and improved functional reliability, but also improve the flow of magnetic lines of force (magnetic flux) and eliminate magnetic saturation, thereby obtaining a large thrust. Therefore, it can certainly be used as a driving unit for a valve device in a cooling water circulation system of a vehicle, etc., and can also be useful as a driving unit in other fields.

Claims

1. An electromagnetic actuator, characterized in that: include: A mover reciprocates along a predetermined axis; an exciting coil; and a shaft fixed to the mover; a first inner yoke, movably accommodating the mover; a second inner yoke that attracts the mover by energizing the coil and accommodates the shaft movably; and an outer yoke that surrounds the coil and is joined to the first inner yoke and the second inner yoke. A first joining region between the first inner yoke and the outer yoke and / or a second joining region between the second inner yoke and the outer yoke has a joining length greater than a plate thickness of the outer yoke in a cross section including the axis.

2. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 1, characterized in that: The outer yoke includes a cylindrical yoke with or without a bottom, and a flat yoke connected to an open end of the cylindrical yoke. The first inner yoke is joined to the cylindrical yoke, The second inner yoke is joined to the flat plate yoke.

3. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first inner yoke includes a first outer peripheral surface centered on the axis and a first annular flange portion protruding radially from the first outer peripheral surface. The cylindrical yoke includes an inner peripheral surface fitted to the first outer peripheral surface and an annular joining surface joined to the first annular flange portion in the axial direction.

4. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 3, characterized in that: The cylindrical yoke includes a small-diameter cylindrical portion, a large-diameter cylindrical portion having a larger diameter than the small-diameter cylindrical portion, and an annular flat plate portion connecting the small-diameter cylindrical portion and the large-diameter cylindrical portion. The small diameter cylindrical portion defines the inner circumference. The annular flat plate portion defines the annular joint surface.

5. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 4, characterized in that: In the first joint region, a gap is provided between a root region of the first annular flange portion and the cylindrical yoke.

6. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 5, characterized in that: The cylindrical yoke is a pressed product formed by pressing.

7. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first annular flange portion has an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward the annular joining surface of the cylindrical yoke on the side opposite to the annular flat surface joined to the cylindrical yoke.

8. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The second inner yoke includes a second outer peripheral surface centered on the axis, and a second annular flange portion protruding radially from the second outer peripheral surface. The flat plate-shaped yoke includes a fitting hole defining an inner peripheral surface fitted to the second outer peripheral surface, and an annular joining surface joined to the second annular flange portion in the direction of the axis.

9. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 8, characterized in that: The second annular flange portion has an annular tapered surface that gradually expands toward the annular joining surface of the flat plate yoke on the side opposite to the annular flat surface joined to the flat plate yoke.

10. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cylindrical yoke includes a flange portion joined to the flat plate yoke.

11. The electromagnetic actuator according to claim 2, characterized in that: The cylindrical member has a bottom, and the cylindrical member accommodates the mover and the second inner yoke and exposes the shaft to the outside.

12. A valve device comprising: A housing defining an upstream passage and a downstream passage for fluid to pass through, and a valve seat interposed between the upstream passage and the downstream passage; a valve core that performs a reciprocating motion to be seated and disengaged relative to the valve seat; and A driving unit, driving the valve core, The valve device is characterized in that The driving unit is an electromagnetic actuator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, The valve core is fixed to the shaft of the electromagnetic actuator.

13. The valve device according to claim 12, characterized in that The downstream passage includes a first downstream passage and a second downstream passage branching from the upstream passage. The valve seat includes a first valve seat facing the first downstream passage and a second valve seat facing the second downstream passage. The valve element includes a first valve element that is arranged to be separated from each other in the direction of the axis and corresponds to the first valve seat, and a second valve element that corresponds to the second valve seat.

14. The valve device according to claim 13, characterized in that When the coil contained in the electromagnetic actuator is not energized, The first valve core is separated from the first valve seat, and the second valve core is seated on the second valve seat. When the coil contained in the electromagnetic actuator is energized, The first valve core is seated on the first valve seat, and the second valve core is separated from the second valve seat.

15. The valve device according to claim 12, characterized in that The flat plate-shaped yoke of the electromagnetic actuator includes a mounting portion for mounting to an applicable object.

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