Damping valve device for shock absorber of motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a damping valve device (54a, 54b, 54c) for a shock absorber (10) of a motor vehicle, comprising a winding (52); an axially movable magnetic core (62) which is arranged at least partially inside the winding (52); a main valve (68) having a main piston (76; 120) which connects the main control chamber (82; 118) and the pre-control chamber (84; 122) are fluidically separated from each other; the invention relates to a pilot valve (70) having a pilot working chamber (100, 132) and a pilot valve (70) arranged in the pilot working chamber (100; 132) in a slide (102; 126) which is axially movable by means of a magnetic core (62); and a connection channel (98; 130) which is arranged in the pre-control chamber (84; 122) and the pilot working chamber (100; 132) and fluidically connecting them to each other, the damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) having a sealing element (106) which is designed and arranged in such a way that the sealing element seals the main piston (76) against a housing part (80) of the main valve (68).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a damping valve device for a shock absorber of a motor vehicle, wherein the damping valve device has a main valve and a pilot valve. Background Art

[0002] DE 10 2020 215 480 A1 discloses a shock absorber having a damping valve arrangement, wherein the damping valve arrangement has a main valve and a pilot valve adjustable by a magnetic winding. In particular, leaks often occur in the pilot control chamber of the main valve, which leaks cause hydraulic fluid to flow out of the pilot control chamber into the low-pressure space. Sealing devices for the pilot control chamber are already known from the prior art, but these are very complex to manufacture and assemble and are therefore cost-intensive. In addition, the requirements for sealing properties are not always met in the known seals, especially in different operating states of the shock absorber, and in addition, wear-induced failures often occur in the known seals. Summary of the invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a damping valve device for a shock absorber, which has a reliable seal, in particular for the hydraulic chambers of the main valve and the pilot valve, which can be produced and assembled cost-effectively.

[0004] This object is achieved according to the invention by a damping valve arrangement having the features of the independent device claim 1. Advantageous developments are revealed in the dependent claims.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a damping valve arrangement for a shock absorber of a motor vehicle comprises a main valve having a main piston which fluidically separates a main control chamber and a pilot control chamber from one another.

[0006] The damping valve device is, for example, a pressure limiting valve, which can preferably be directly controlled or pre-controlled. The main valve with the main piston is preferably configured to close and open the damping valve device, in particular the pressure limiting valve. The main piston can preferably be axially moved by means of the magnetic core and / or the hydraulic pressure present in the pre-control chamber.

[0007] The damping valve device constructed as a pre-control pressure-limiting valve preferably includes, in addition to the main valve, a pilot valve and a connecting channel, wherein the pilot valve has a pilot working chamber and a slider arranged in the pilot working chamber, the slider being able to move axially with the aid of a magnetic core, and the connecting channel being arranged between the pre-control chamber and the pilot working chamber and connecting the two to each other in terms of fluid technology.

[0008] For example, the pilot valve has a valve seat, against which the slide rests in the closed position of the pilot valve, so that the connecting channel is closed by the slide in a fluid-tight manner. The damping valve device has a sealing element, which is designed and arranged in such a way that it seals the main piston in particular in a fluid-tight manner relative to a housing part of the main valve.

[0009] According to the inventors' knowledge, leakage exists between the housing part and the main piston, so that a sealing element between these components reliably prevents leakage flows between the pilot control chamber and the valve outlet.

[0010] The main piston is preferably movable in the axial direction of the damping valve device relative to the housing component. In particular, the sealing element is movably mounted relative to the main piston and / or the housing component. The sealing element is, for example, arranged between the inner side of the housing component and the outer side of the main piston. In particular, the sealing element abuts on the outer surface of the main piston, which points radially outward, and abuts on the inner surface of the housing component, which points radially inward. The sealing element preferably extends between the main piston and the housing component in a radial direction. Preferably, the main piston and the housing component have a radial spacing between each other, wherein the sealing element is mounted inside the radial spacing. The sealing element is preferably configured as an annular, especially circular ring. For example, the sealing element includes two concentric and coaxially arranged ring areas, wherein the inner ring area can also be implemented as having an interruption, and these ring areas have different diameters and have, for example, quadrilateral, triangular, especially rectangular cross-sections. Changed geometric shapes and cross-sections, such as polygons and rounded corners, can also be used.

[0011] The damping valve device is arranged, for example, in a shock absorber for a motor vehicle. The shock absorber is, for example, a single-tube shock absorber or a multi-tube shock absorber, such as a twin-tube shock absorber. The shock absorber comprises, for example, an outer tube, which forms the outer surface of the shock absorber, in particular a housing. Inside the outer tube, an inner tube is arranged coaxially with the outer tube, which inner tube is also referred to as a damping tube. A compensation space is formed between the outer tube and the inner tube, which is preferably at least partially filled with a hydraulic fluid. For example, the compensation space is partially filled with a gas.

[0012] Inside the inner tube, a working piston connected to the piston rod is preferably arranged so that the working piston can move inside the inner tube, wherein the inner tube is preferably configured as a guide for the working piston. For example, a damping valve device according to the present invention is arranged on the working piston. The working piston divides the inner chamber of the inner tube into a first working chamber on the piston rod side and a second working chamber away from the piston rod.

[0013] The damping valve device is, for example, at least partially arranged outside the outer tube of the shock absorber. When the damping valve device is arranged outside in this way, an intermediate tube can be optionally arranged inside the compensation space, which is coaxial with the inner tube and the outer tube and is arranged between the two. The damping valve device is, for example, mounted on the intermediate tube. The intermediate tube is preferably mounted on the inner tube in a fluid-tight manner, wherein an annular space is constructed between the intermediate tube and the inner tube. The intermediate tube preferably has a flange area for mounting the damping valve device on the intermediate tube, and the flange area is preferably constructed as a fluid inlet and / or fluid outlet of the damping valve device. The outer tube preferably has an opening aligned with the flange area, which is used to accommodate the damping valve device so that the damping valve device is connected to the compensation space in terms of fluid technology. For example, the shock absorber has another damping valve device, which is, for example, also arranged outside the outer tube. Preferably, the other damping valve device is connected to the inner tube, especially to the working chamber away from the piston rod, in terms of fluid technology by means of an adapter installed inside the inner tube. These damping valve devices are preferably constructed identically.

[0014] The shock absorber preferably has a closure assembly which seals the interior of the outer tube fluidically on the piston rod side. Opposite the closure assembly, the interior of the outer tube is fluidically sealed at the end remote from the piston rod, preferably by means of a bottom part. In particular, a bottom valve is arranged on the bottom part, which is mounted at the end of the inner tube remote from the piston rod.

[0015] The damping valve device comprises a preferably cylindrical damping valve housing having a substantially tubular tube part and a housing upper part mounted on the tube part. The housing upper part has, for example, a connection area with one or more connection contacts for supplying current to the damping valve device. Preferably, the connection contacts for supplying current are connected to the drive unit. The housing upper part has, for example, a cylindrical cover section, to which a hollow cylindrical section is connected, which hollow cylindrical section has, for example, a smaller diameter.

[0016] The damping valve device preferably has a drive device configured as an electromagnet, in particular a winding having a plurality of coils made of an electrically conductive wire. The winding is preferably arranged inside the housing of the damping valve device and comprises, for example, a winding frame on which the coils of the winding are wound. Preferably, the winding at least partially or completely surrounds a magnetic core chamber, which extends centrally in the axial direction. A magnetic core is preferably supported axially movably inside the magnetic core chamber. The magnetic core is preferably slidably mounted inside the magnetic core chamber in the axial direction and, for example, comprises a central magnetic core rod, which is, for example, tubular and extends centrally in the axial direction through the magnetic core chamber. The magnetic core chamber is preferably delimited by an at least partially hollow cylindrical pole tube, which preferably serves as a guide for the magnetic core.

[0017] The damping valve arrangement preferably comprises a main valve and an optional pilot valve, and in particular a valve inlet for introducing hydraulic fluid into the damping valve arrangement, and a valve outlet for discharging hydraulic fluid from the damping valve arrangement. The pilot valve is preferably arranged downstream of the main valve. In particular, the damping valve arrangement allows hydraulic fluid to pass only in one direction.

[0018] The main valve preferably includes a main piston, which is axially movable and arranged inside the main working chamber. The main valve includes a housing component, which at least partially limits the main working chamber and constitutes an axial guide for the main piston. The main piston is preferably arranged so that the main piston separates the main control chamber from the pre-control chamber, wherein the main piston optionally has a flow through hole, which extends through the main piston and constructs a fluid connection between the main control chamber and the pre-control chamber. Optionally, the pre-control chamber is connected to the first or second working chamber of the shock absorber in fluid technology through the flow through hole. The housing component is, for example, configured as a hollow cylinder and, for example, includes a valve inlet or a valve outlet. Preferably, the housing component at least partially or completely surrounds the main valve, in particular the main piston, the main working chamber with the main control chamber and the pre-control chamber in the axial direction and / or in the circumferential direction.

[0019] For example, the main piston is constructed so that the end surface of the main piston facing the main control chamber (to which the hydraulic pressure of the main control chamber is applied) is larger than the end surface of the main piston facing the pilot control chamber (to which the hydraulic pressure of the pilot control chamber is applied).

[0020] During the operation of the damping valve device, in particular the pre-controlled or directly controlled pressure limiting valve, the hydraulic fluid flows into the main control chamber through the valve inlet, wherein the main piston is exerted with an opening force by the pressure in the main control chamber and moves axially in the opening direction. At this time, the main piston is lifted from the main valve seat and the hydraulic fluid flows to the valve outlet through the main flow channel. At the same time, the branch flow of the hydraulic fluid passes through the flow through hole in the main piston, flows to the pre-control chamber, and exerts a closing force on the main piston in the direction of the main valve seat. The opening width of the main valve, in particular the cross section of the main flow channel, is determined by the closing force, and the damping force of the damping valve device is determined by the cross section.

[0021] In a pilot-controlled pressure-limiting valve, the closing force is preferably determined by the pressure present in the pilot-control chamber. The pressure in the pilot-control chamber is regulated in particular by a pilot valve, wherein the hydraulic fluid flows from the pilot-control chamber via a connecting channel, which is released by the slide, into the pilot working chamber. The opening width of the connecting channel depends on the axial position of the slide, which is regulated, in particular preset, by means of a magnetic winding.

[0022] In a directly controlled pressure-limiting valve, the closing force of the main piston is preferably determined by the pressure present in the pilot control chamber and / or by means of a magnetic winding. For example, the main piston is directly connected to the magnetic core, so that the magnetic core exerts a force on the main piston that acts in the axial direction, in particular in the closing direction. A directly controlled pressure-limiting valve preferably has no pilot valve.

[0023] For an external damping valve device arranged outside the outer tube, the valve inlet is particularly configured in the flange area of ​​the damping valve device, wherein the flange area is preferably connected to the outer tube, the inner tube and / or the intermediate tube of the shock absorber. The main valve preferably has a main valve seat, which is configured, for example, on the flange area, and the main piston rests against the main valve seat in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the main valve. In the open position of the main valve, the main piston is lifted from the main valve seat in the axial direction, in which position a main flow channel is preferably configured between the main piston and the valve seat. The main flow channel preferably forms a fluid connection between the valve outlet and the valve inlet, in particular with the main control chamber.

[0024] On the side of the main piston away from the valve seat, a spring element is preferably mounted, which is arranged so that it exerts a spring force on the main piston in the direction of the main valve seat. The spring element is, for example, a preloaded spring having one or at least two spring washer assemblies, wherein the spring washer assembly is preferably configured in the shape of a disk, in particular as a disk spring.

[0025] The damping valve device, in particular the pilot-controlled pressure-limiting valve, preferably comprises a connecting channel for connecting the pilot-control chamber to the pilot working chamber of the pilot valve. The connecting channel is preferably configured in a housing component or in an area that is fixedly connected to the housing of the damping valve device and extends in particular centrally and in the axial direction. Preferably, the connecting channel forms a fluid inlet into the pilot valve.

[0026] The pilot valve preferably comprises a slider, which is arranged axially movable inside the pilot working chamber. The slider preferably rests on the magnetic core with its end facing away from the main valve, so that the movement of the magnetic core and the slider is mechanically coupled at least in the pulling direction. The pilot valve is preferably movable into a closed position, in which the slider rests on the first valve seat of the pilot valve so that the connecting channel is completely closed by the slider, so that preferably no fluid flow can flow into the pilot working chamber through the connecting channel. The pilot valve is preferably movable into an open position, in which the slider is lifted from the first valve seat of the pilot valve, so that the connecting channel is released by the slider and a fluid flow is formed between the pilot control chamber of the main valve and the pilot working chamber. For example, the pilot valve has a fluid channel, which is used to connect the pilot working chamber to the valve outlet fluidically. The pilot working chamber is preferably fluidically connected to an outflow channel, through which the hydraulic fluid can flow from the pilot working chamber to the valve outlet, in particular to the first or second working chamber.

[0027] Optionally, the pilot valve comprises a preload element, which is arranged and constructed in such a way that it exerts a preload force on the slider. The preload element is, for example, a helical spring or a disc spring, which is particularly arranged and constructed in such a way that the spring exerts a preload force on the slider in the direction of the magnetic core. Preferably, the preload element, which is constructed as a helical spring, a leaf spring and / or a disc spring, is arranged coaxially with the slider. Such a preload element increases operational safety and ensures that the slider moves reliably in the direction of the magnetic core, so that in a currentless operating state, the slider reaches a fail-safe position.

[0028] According to a first embodiment, the sealing element has an elastic preload. Preferably, the sealing element is preloaded by means of hydraulic pressure, in particular the hydraulic pressure present in the pilot control chamber, preferably exerting a radial force on the sealing element outwards. The sealing element is preferably arranged between the housing part and the main piston in an elastically deformed state. This state ensures an optimal seal.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the sealing element has an overall cross section which comprises at least two cross-sectional areas which differ from each other.For example, the sealing element has an overall cross section which comprises at least two or only two cross-sectional areas.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the first cross-sectional area has a larger cross-sectional area than the second cross-sectional area. In particular, the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area are respectively configured as substantially quadrilateral, in particular rectangular. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the sealing element preferably includes at least one rounded area, which is preferably configured between the first cross-sectional area and the second cross-sectional area, in particular on the transition from the first cross-sectional area to the second cross-sectional area. The first cross-sectional area is, for example, a radially outer cross-sectional area, which extends, for example, in the axial direction beyond the second cross-sectional area. The second cross-sectional area is preferably a radially inner cross-sectional area, which extends in the radial direction, in particular from the first cross-sectional area to the outer surface of the main piston.

[0031] In the elastically prestressed state of the sealing element, the second cross-sectional area is preferably elastically deformed. In particular, the second cross-sectional area is elastically deformed in such a way that the end face of the second cross-sectional area points in the direction of the spring element or the pilot valve. Preferably, the second cross-sectional area is elastically deformed in such a way that a radially outward force, in particular a force directed in the direction of the housing component, is exerted on the first cross-sectional area.

[0032] According to another embodiment, the overall cross section of the sealing element has a symmetrical profile. In particular, the overall cross section is designed symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to an axis of symmetry running centrally through the overall cross section in the radial direction. In particular, the overall cross section has a T-shaped profile. A sealing element with a symmetrical profile can be manufactured simply and cost-effectively and can be installed in a damping valve device.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the first cross-sectional area is against the housing part, and the second cross-sectional area is against the main piston. The first cross-sectional area is, for example, against the housing part laterally. The housing part is preferably mounted statically inside the damping valve device, wherein the main piston is mounted movably relative to the housing part. The second cross-sectional area is preferably against the main piston laterally. Preferably, the first cross-sectional area also at least partially against the main piston with its side opposite to the housing part. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the sealing element is preferably constructed in such a way that the total cross-sectional area gradually narrows from the housing part toward the main piston, in particular continuously or in sections. The sealing element is preferably constructed in one piece or in one piece.

[0034] According to another embodiment, a recess is constructed in the main piston, and the sealing element is arranged in the recess. The recess preferably extends inwardly from the outer surface in a radial direction circumferentially. In particular, the recess is constructed on the end region of the main piston pointing in the direction of the spring element. The recess is preferably arranged between the main piston and the housing part, wherein the sealing element is arranged in the recess. For example, the recess is constructed to start from the end of the main piston on the spring element side, in the direction of the main control chamber, through a section of the main piston with a constant outer diameter and a section of the main piston connected thereto with a continuously expanding outer diameter.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the recess is constructed on a section of the main piston with a continuously decreasing outer diameter, wherein the sealing element at least partially abuts on the narrowed section of the main piston. The sealing element preferably at least partially abuts on such a section of the main piston, which has a continuously changing, especially gradually decreasing outer diameter in the direction of the pilot valve. The main piston preferably has a first section, which has a constant outer diameter in the axial direction, and the first section preferably abuts on the inner diameter of the housing part. The end area of ​​the main piston on the spring element side preferably has a second section, which has a constant outer diameter in the axial direction, and the outer diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the first section. Preferably, a section with a continuously decreasing outer diameter is constructed directly between the first section and the second section, and the sealing element especially abuts on this section.

[0036] During operation of the damping valve device, the pressure in the pilot control chamber is preferably applied to the area of ​​the sealing element pointing in the direction of the pilot valve, and a hydraulic force is applied to the sealing element, by which the sealing element is elastically deformed, for example, so that it rests flush against the main piston, in particular against a section with a gradually decreasing outer diameter, and thus an optimal seal is formed between the main piston and the tube component.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the sealing element is movably mounted inside the recess. Preferably, the sealing element is movable relative to the main piston and / or the housing part.

[0038] According to a further embodiment, the sealing element is arranged within a pilot control chamber of the main valve.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the sealing element is subjected to a radial preload. As a result, an optimal seal is achieved in every position of the sealing element. Preferably, the total cross section of the sealing profile has a radial width that is greater than the width of the recess, in particular greater than the radial distance of the main piston from the housing part.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the sealing element is manufactured by a cutting method, in particular by turning. The sealing element is preferably constructed of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or an elastically deformable material. In particular, the sealing element is constructed and arranged so that the second cross-sectional area is elastically deformable relative to the first cross-sectional area. For example, the second cross-sectional area has a smaller elastic modulus than the first cross-sectional area. For example, the two cross-sectional areas have the same elastic modulus. Due to the geometry, preferably one cross-sectional area is more elastically deformable than the other cross-sectional area.

[0041] According to another embodiment, the damping valve device includes a winding; and an axially movable magnetic core, which is at least partially arranged inside the winding; a pilot valve, which has a pilot working chamber and a slider arranged in the pilot working chamber, which can move axially with the aid of the magnetic core; and a connecting channel, which is arranged between the pre-control chamber and the pilot working chamber, and connects the two to each other in terms of fluid technology.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the damping valve device comprises a winding and an axially movable magnet core which is arranged at least partially within the winding, wherein the magnet core is connected to the main piston such that it exerts a closing force on the main piston.

[0043] The invention also includes a shock absorber having an aforementioned damping valve arrangement, wherein the damping valve arrangement is arranged, for example, on the working piston and / or at least partially outside the outer tube. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to a number of exemplary embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vibration absorber according to an exemplary embodiment is shown in a longitudinal section.

[0046] Figure 2 A schematic illustration of a damping valve arrangement according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown in a longitudinal section.

[0047] Figure 3 and Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a detail of a damping valve arrangement according to a further exemplary embodiment is shown in a longitudinal section. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Figure 1 A shock absorber 10 is shown, wherein the shock absorber 10 is a multi-tube shock absorber, for example a twin-tube shock absorber. The shock absorber 10 has an outer tube 12, which forms the outer surface of the shock absorber 10, in particular the housing. An inner tube 14 is arranged coaxially with the outer tube inside the outer tube 12, which inner tube can also be referred to as a damping tube. A compensation space 16 is formed between the outer tube 12 and the inner tube 14, which is preferably at least partially filled with a hydraulic fluid. For example, the compensation space 16 is partially filled with a gas.

[0049] The working piston 18 connected to the piston rod 20 is arranged inside the inner tube 14 so that the working piston can move inside the inner tube 14, wherein the inner tube is preferably configured as a guide for the working piston 18. The working piston 18 has, for example, a valve device not shown. The working piston 18 divides the inner cavity of the inner tube 14 into a first working cavity 22 arranged on the piston rod side and a second working cavity 24 arranged away from the piston rod. Inside the compensation space 16, the intermediate tube 26 is arranged coaxially between the inner tube 14 and the outer tube 12.

[0050] The inner chamber of the outer tube 12 is fluidically sealed on the piston rod side by means of a closure assembly 34. Opposite the closure assembly 34, the inner chamber of the outer tube 12 is fluidically sealed on the end remote from the piston rod by means of a bottom part 36. A bottom valve 38 is arranged, for example, on the bottom part 36, which is particularly mounted on the end of the inner tube 14 remote from the piston rod. The bottom valve 38 is, for example, a non-return valve which can allow fluid to pass through in both directions or only in one direction. The second working chamber 24 is preferably fluidically connected to the compensation space 16 via the bottom valve 38. The ends of the inner tube 14 and the outer tube 12 on the piston rod side are preferably fixed to the closure assembly 34.

[0051] The central tube 26 is preferably mounted in a fluid-tight manner on the inner tube 14. An annular space 28 is formed between the central tube and the inner tube 14. At least one through-hole 30 is formed in the inner tube 14, which connects the first working chamber 22 to the annular space 28 in a fluid-tight manner.

[0052] The intermediate tube 26 has, by way of example, a flange region 32 for mounting the damping valve device 54a on the intermediate tube 26. The flange region 32 forms a receptacle for the damping valve device 54a, in particular forming a fluid inlet and / or a fluid outlet of the damping valve device 54a. The flange region 32 connects the annular space 28 to the damping valve device 54a, for example. The outer tube 12 preferably has an opening aligned with the flange region 32 for accommodating the damping valve device 54a, so that the damping valve device 54a is fluidically connected to the compensation space 16.

[0053] The shock absorber 10 comprises, for example, another damping valve device 54b, which is fluidically connected to the inner tube 14, in particular to the working chamber 24 remote from the piston rod, by means of an adapter 40 mounted inside the inner tube 14. Preferably, the outer tube 12 and the intermediate tube 26 have openings aligned with the adapter, which are used to accommodate the damping valve device 54a. The damping valve devices 54a, 54b are, for example, identically configured. For example, the damping valve devices 54a, 54b are configured as directly controlled or pre-controlled pressure limiting valves.

[0054] The piston rod 20 has, for example, an optional tension stop which, during a movement of the piston rod in the tension direction Z, is acted upon by a spring force via a spring element 42 .

[0055] Figure 2 An exemplary damping valve arrangement 54a, 54b is shown, which is preferably arranged as an external valve at least partially outside the outer tube 12 of the shock absorber 10. The damping valve arrangement 54a, 54b is designed, for example, as a controlled pressure limiting valve and comprises a preferably cylindrical damping valve housing having a Figure 1 4 and 5. The substantially tubular tube part 45 shown in the figure and the housing upper part 44 mounted on the tube part 45. The housing upper part 44 has, for example, a connection area 46, which has one or more connection contacts for supplying current to the damping valve device 54a, 54b. Preferably, the connection contacts for power supply are connected to the drive unit. The housing upper part 44 has, for example, a cylindrical cover section 56, to which a hollow cylindrical section 58 is connected, which hollow cylindrical section has, for example, a smaller diameter.

[0056] The damping valve device 54a, 54b has, for example, a drive region 48 and a valve region 50. The drive region 48 is, for example, arranged in the upper region of the damping valve device 54a, 54b, facing the housing upper part 44, and is preferably arranged substantially above the valve region 50. The drive region 48 preferably includes a drive device configured as an electromagnetic device. The electromagnetic device includes a winding 52, which has a plurality of coils made of conductive wire. The winding 52 is preferably inside the tube part 45 and is arranged concentrically with the tube part. The winding 52 is, for example, arranged inside the hollow cylindrical section 58 of the housing upper part 44, and is particularly close to the inner wall of the housing upper part 44. The housing upper part 44 is, for example, constructed of plastic, in particular of a non-magnetic or only very small magnetic material, preferably a magnetic insulator or a material with high magnetic resistance. The winding 52, for example, includes a winding frame, on which the coils of the winding are wound. The winding 52 at least partially or completely surrounds a core chamber 60, which extends in the central axial direction. The core 62 is supported in the core chamber 60 so that it can move axially. The core 62 is preferably cylindrical and has a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the core chamber 60, so that the core 62 is preferably mounted slidably in the axial direction. For example, the core 62 comprises a central core rod 65, which is, for example, tubular and extends through the core chamber 60 in the central axial direction. The core chamber 60 is preferably delimited by an at least partially hollow cylindrical pole tube 64. The pole tube 64 preferably has a bottom and is, in particular, configured to be open in the direction of the valve area 50. The pole tube 64 is preferably constructed of a magnetizable or magnetic material and, for example, has a magnetic barrier that is not shown.

[0057] The winding 52 is preferably designed and arranged in such a way that, when a current is applied to it, it forms a magnetic field having magnetic field lines which preferably run substantially in the axial direction in the magnetic core chamber 60. The magnetic core 62 is preferably made of a magnetizable or magnetic material and can be moved in the axial direction, corresponding to the polarity of the magnetic field formed by means of the winding 52.

[0058] The pole tube 64 has a hollow cylindrical region connected in the axial direction and coaxially to the hollow cylindrical region, and the pole tube elements together form the pole tube 64, wherein the pole tube 64 is in particular designed in multiple parts, in one piece or in one piece. The pole tube 64 has an upper tubular region with an especially constant inner diameter, which is preferably designed as a hollow cylinder and extends from the housing upper part 44 in the axial direction to beyond the magnetic core 62. The upper hollow cylindrical region is connected in the axial direction to a lower region with an enlarged diameter, wherein the outer surface of the pole tube 64 preferably extends to Figure 14 and at least partially bears against the tube part 45 and is fluid-tight relative to the tube part 45 via a sealing element 66. The pole tube 64 at least partially surrounds a valve region 50, which will be explained in more detail in the following description.

[0059] The valve area 50 comprises, for example, a main valve 68 and a pilot valve 70, as well as a valve inlet 72 for introducing hydraulic fluid into the damping valve devices 54a, 54b, and a valve outlet 74 for discharging hydraulic fluid from the damping valve devices 54a, 54b. During operation of the damping valve, the hydraulic fluid, in particular the pilot flow, preferably flows from the valve inlet 72 into the main valve 68, then into the pilot valve 70, and subsequently into the valve outlet 74. The main valve 68 comprises a main piston 76, which is arranged in an axially movable manner inside a main working chamber 78. The main valve 68 further comprises, for example, a housing component 80, which at least partially defines the main working chamber 78 and is configured for axially guiding the main piston 76. The main piston 76 is preferably inside the housing component 80 and is arranged concentrically with the housing component 80. The main piston 76 preferably divides the main working chamber 78 into a main control chamber 82 and a pilot control chamber 84 , wherein the main piston 76 has in particular a flow through-opening 86 which extends through the main piston 76 and forms a fluid connection between the main control chamber 82 and the pilot control chamber 84 .

[0060] The valve inlet 72 is formed in particular in a flange region 88 of the damping valve device 54a, 54b, wherein the flange region 88 can preferably be connected to the outer tube 12, the inner tube 14 and / or the intermediate tube 26 of the shock absorber 10. A main valve seat 90 is formed on the flange region 88, against which the main piston 76 rests in a fluid-tight manner in the closed position of the main valve 68. In the open position of the main valve 68, the main piston moves away from the main valve seat 90 in the axial direction, so that the main piston 76 is lifted from the main valve seat 90, so that a main flow channel 92 is formed between the main piston 76 and the main valve seat 90. The main flow channel 92 forms a fluid connection between the valve inlet 72, in particular the main control chamber 82, and the valve outlet 74.

[0061] The main piston 76 has, on its surface pointing in the direction of the drive region 48, a central recess, in particular, so that the main piston 76 has a hollow cylindrical region. The recess of the main piston 76, in particular the interior of the hollow cylindrical region, preferably at least partially delimits the pilot control chamber 84. A spring element 94 is mounted on the side of the main piston 76 that faces away from the main valve seat 90, and the spring element is arranged in such a way that the spring element exerts a spring force on the main piston 76 in the direction of the main valve seat 90. The spring element 94 is, for example, a preloaded spring having at least one or two spring washer groups, wherein the spring washer group is preferably configured in the shape of a disk, in particular as a disk spring. The spring element 94 preferably extends over the entire or partial diameter of the pilot control chamber 84, in particular to the inner wall of the housing component 80.

[0062] The spring element 94 preferably rests on a central block 96 that is fixedly connected to the housing part 80. The central block 96 is, for example, arranged in the pilot control chamber 84 and supported on the housing part 80 or fixedly connected to the housing part. In the central block 96, a connecting channel 98 is preferably configured, which is used to connect the pilot control chamber 84 with the pilot working chamber 100 of the pilot valve 70. The connecting channel 98 preferably extends through the central block 96 in the center and in the axial direction. Preferably, the connecting channel 98 forms a fluid inlet that is connected to the pilot valve 70.

[0063] The pilot valve 70 comprises, for example, a slide 102, which is arranged axially movably inside the pilot working chamber 100. The slide 102 preferably bears against the magnetic core 62 with its end remote from the main valve 68, so that the movement of the magnetic core 62 and the slide 102 is coupled at least in the movement of the magnetic core 62 toward the slide 102. The slide 102 preferably bears against the central block 96 in the closed position of the pilot valve 70 so that the connecting channel 98 is completely closed by the slide 102. In the open position of the pilot valve 70, the slide 102 is lifted from the central block 96, so that the connecting channel 98 is released by the slide 102, and a fluid flow is formed between the pilot control chamber 84 of the main valve 68 and the pilot working chamber 100. The pilot valve 70 preferably has a pilot housing part 104, which is arranged in a fixed position and, for example, bears against the housing part 80 or is fixedly connected thereto. The pilot working chamber 100 is constructed inside the pilot housing component 104, wherein the inner wall of the pilot housing component is constructed as a contact surface preferably fluid-tight with the slider 102. The pilot housing component 104 is preferably constructed as an axial guide for the slider 102. The slider 102 has, for example, a T-shaped longitudinal section, wherein the slider 102 has a first region 103 facing the connecting channel 98, the first region having a larger cross section than the cross section of the connecting channel 98, and also has a second region 105 facing the magnetic core 62, the second region having a larger cross section than the cross section of the first region. The second region preferably extends over the entire cross section of the pilot working chamber 100.

[0064] The slide 102 of the pilot valve 70 preferably has at least one or more through-holes 112, which extend through the slide 102 in the axial direction and form a flow channel for the hydraulic fluid to pass through the slide 102. The through-hole 112 is preferably fluidically connected to the valve outlet 74, which is arranged downstream of the through-hole 112.

[0065] Figure 2 The pilot valve 70 is shown by way of example in the closed position, wherein the slide 102 completely closes the connecting channel. Preferably, the slide 102 bears against a valve seat in the closed position, which is formed in the central block 96 .

[0066] During operation of the damping valve device 54a, 54b, the hydraulic fluid flows through the valve inlet 72 into the main control chamber 82, wherein the pressure in the main control chamber 82 exerts an opening force on the main piston 76 and causes the main piston to move axially upward. At this time, the main piston 76 is lifted from the main valve seat 90, and the hydraulic fluid flows to the valve outlet 74 through the main flow channel 92. At the same time, the hydraulic fluid flows to the pilot control chamber 84 through the flow through hole 86 in the main piston 76, and exerts a closing force on the main piston in the direction of the main valve seat 90. The opening width of the main valve 68, in particular the cross section of the main flow channel 92, is determined by the closing force, and the cross section determines the damping force of the damping valve device 54a, 54b. The pressure in the pilot control chamber 84 is adjusted by the pilot valve 70, wherein the hydraulic fluid flows from the pilot control chamber 84 through the connecting channel 98 into the pilot working chamber 100, and the connecting channel is released by the slide 102. The opening width of the connecting channel 98 depends on the axial position of the slide 102, which is adjusted, in particular preset, by means of the magnetic winding 54. In the closed position of the pilot valve 70, the slide 102 preferably completely closes the connecting channel 98, so that the hydraulic pressure in the pilot control chamber 84 increases to a maximum value and closes the main valve 68, in which the main piston 76 is pressed against the main valve seat 90. In the open position of the pilot valve 70, the connecting channel 98 is at least partially released from the slide 102, so that the hydraulic flow flows through the through-opening 112 in the slide 102 and flows to the valve outlet 74 via the flow channel arranged downstream of the through-opening 112.

[0067] Figure 3 Show Figure 2Detailed description of the invention The damping valve devices 54a, 54b of the present invention are shown in FIG. 5 , wherein identical elements are provided with identical reference numerals. The damping valve devices 54a, 54b have a sealing element 106 which is designed and arranged in such a way that it seals the main piston 76 in a fluid-tight manner relative to the housing part 80 of the main valve 68. The sealing element 106 is preferably designed in an annular shape, in particular in a circular shape. For example, the sealing element 106 comprises two annular areas which are arranged concentrically and coaxially to each other, have different diameters, and each have, for example, a quadrilateral, in particular a rectangular cross section.

[0068] The sealing element 106 has, for example, an overall cross section which includes at least two or only two cross-sectional areas 108, 110. The first cross-sectional area 108 preferably has a larger cross-sectional area than the second cross-sectional area 110. In particular, the first cross-sectional area 108 and the second cross-sectional area 110 are each substantially quadrilateral, in particular rectangular. For example, the overall cross section of the sealing element has a symmetrical profile. In particular, the overall cross section is symmetrically constructed with respect to an axis of symmetry running centrally through the overall cross section in the radial direction. The overall cross section of the sealing element 106 preferably includes at least one rounded area, which is preferably constructed between the first cross-sectional area 108 and the second cross-sectional area 110, in particular at the transition from the first to the second cross-sectional area 108, 110.

[0069] The first cross-sectional area 108, for example, abuts against the housing part 80 laterally. The housing part 80 is preferably mounted statically inside the damping valve device 54a, 54b, wherein the primary piston 76 is mounted movably relative to the housing part 80. The second cross-sectional area 110 preferably abuts against the primary piston 76 laterally. Preferably, the first cross-sectional area 108 also abuts against the primary piston 76 at least partially with its side opposite to the housing part 80. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the sealing element 106 is preferably configured such that the total cross-sectional area tapers gradually from the housing part 80 toward the primary piston 76, in particular continuously or in sections. The sealing element 106 is preferably formed in one piece or in one piece.

[0070] The sealing element 106 is preferably constructed of an elastically deformable material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In particular, the sealing element 106 is constructed and arranged such that the second cross-sectional area 110 is elastically deformable relative to the first cross-sectional area 108. For example, the second cross-sectional area 110 has a smaller elastic modulus than the first cross-sectional area 108.

[0071] The primary piston 76 has, for example, a recess 118. The recess 118 preferably extends circumferentially inwardly from the outer surface in the radial direction. In particular, the recess 118 is configured on the end region of the primary piston 76 pointing in the direction of the spring element 94. The recess 118 is arranged between the primary piston 76 and the housing part 80, wherein the sealing element 106 is arranged inside the recess 118. For example, the recess 118 is configured to start from the end of the primary piston 76 on the spring element side, toward the direction of the main control chamber 82, through a section of the primary piston 76 with a constant outer diameter and a section of the primary piston 76 connected thereto with a continuously expanding outer diameter.

[0072] The sealing element 106 preferably bears at least partially against a section of the main piston 76 which has a continuously varying outer diameter, in particular tapering in the direction of the pilot valve.

[0073] Preferably, the sealing element 76 is arranged in such a way that it seals the pilot control chamber 84 from the valve outlet 74. During operation of the damping valve device 54a, 54b, the pressure of the pilot control chamber 84 is preferably applied to the region of the sealing element 106 that points toward the pilot valve 70 and exerts a hydraulic force on the sealing element 106, by which the sealing element is elastically deformed, for example, in such a way that it rests flush against the main piston, in particular against a section with a gradually decreasing outer diameter, and thus forms an optimal seal between the main piston and the tube part 80. For example, even after wear or, in particular, temperature-related deformation of the sealing element, the hydraulic pressure of the pilot control chamber causes the sealing element to rest outwardly against the housing, wherein the hydraulic pressure in the pilot control chamber exerts a downward force on the sealing element 106 and, by the constriction of the main piston 76 in the outer wall, exerts an axial force, in particular a force, on the sealing element. Figure 3 A downward directed force.

[0074] Figure 4 The sealing element is shown in an assembled, in particular elastically prestressed state, wherein the second cross-sectional area 110 is elastically deformed. For example, the second cross-sectional area 110 is elastically deformed in such a way that the end face of the second cross-sectional area 110 points in the direction of the spring element 94 or the pilot valve 70. The elastic deformation of the second cross-sectional area 110 causes the first cross-sectional area 108 to be prestressed toward the inner wall of the housing part 80. Preferably, the second cross-sectional area 110 is elastically deformed in such a way that the first cross-sectional area 108 is subjected to a force radially outward, in particular toward the housing part 80.

[0075] Description of Reference Numerals

[0076] 10. Shock absorber

[0077] 12 outer tube

[0078] 14 Inner tube

[0079] 16 Compensation space

[0080] 18 Working piston

[0081] 20 piston rod

[0082] 22 First / piston rod side working chamber

[0083] 24 Second / working chamber away from the piston rod

[0084] 26 Intermediate pipe

[0085] 28 Ring Space

[0086] 30 through holes

[0087] 32 Flange area

[0088] 34 closed components

[0089] 36 bottom parts

[0090] 38 foot valve

[0091] 40 Adapter

[0092] 42 Spring element

[0093] 44 Shell upper part

[0094] 45 pipe parts

[0095] 46 Wiring area

[0096] 48 drive area

[0097] 50 valve area

[0098] 52 Winding

[0099] 54a, 54b Damping valve device

[0100] 56 Top cover section

[0101] 58 hollow cylindrical section

[0102] 60 core chamber

[0103] 62 core

[0104] 64 diodes

[0105] 65 magnetic core rod

[0106] 66 Sealing element

[0107] 68 Main valve

[0108] 70 pilot valve

[0109] 72 valve inlet

[0110] 74 valve outlet

[0111] 76 Main Piston

[0112] 78 Main working chamber

[0113] 80 Shell parts

[0114] 82 Main control chamber

[0115] 84 Pre-control chamber

[0116] 86 Flow Through Holes

[0117] 88 Flange area

[0118] 90 Main valve seat

[0119] 92 Main flow channel

[0120] 94 Spring element

[0121] 96 center block

[0122] 98 connection channels

[0123] 100 pilot working chamber

[0124] 102 Sliders

[0125] 103 The first area of ​​the slider

[0126] 104 pilot housing parts

[0127] 105 The second area of ​​the slider

[0128] 106 Sealing element

[0129] 108 first cross-sectional area

[0130] 110 Second cross-sectional area

[0131] 112 Through hole

[0132] 114 Recess in main piston

[0133] 118 concavity

Claims

1. A damping valve device (54a, 54b, 54c) for a shock absorber (10) of a motor vehicle, comprising: A main valve (68) having a main piston (76; 120) which separates a main control chamber (82; 118) and a pilot control chamber (84; 122) from one another, in, The main control chamber (82; 118) and the pilot control chamber (84; 122) are fluidically connected to each other via flow channels (86, 136). It is characterized in that The damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) has a sealing element (106) which is designed and arranged in such a way that it seals the main piston (76) relative to a housing part (80) of the main valve (68).

2. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to claim 1, characterized in that The sealing element (106) has elastic preload.

3. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The sealing element (106) has an overall cross section which includes at least two cross-sectional areas (108, 110) that differ from each other.

4. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to claim 3, characterized in that The first cross-sectional area (108) has a larger cross-sectional area than the second cross-sectional area (110).

5. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The overall cross section has a symmetrical, in particular T-shaped, design.

6. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The first cross-sectional area (108) abuts against the housing component (80), and the second cross-sectional area (110) abuts against the main piston (76).

7. The damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A recess (118) is formed in the main piston (76), and the sealing element (106) is arranged inside the recess (118).

8. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to claim 7, characterized in that The recess (118) is formed on a section of the main piston (76) having a continuously decreasing outer diameter, wherein the sealing element (76) at least partially rests on the tapered section of the main piston.

9. The damping valve device (54a, 54b) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The sealing element (76) is movably mounted inside the recess (118).

10. The damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The sealing element (76) is arranged inside a pilot control chamber (84) of the main valve (68).

11. The damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The sealing element (76) is subjected to radial preload.

12. The damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The sealing element (76) is produced by a cutting method, in particular turning.

13. The damping valve device (54a, 54b, 54c) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: Winding (52), an axially movable magnetic core (62) arranged at least partially inside the winding (52), A pilot valve (70) having a pilot working chamber (100, 132) and a slider (102; 126) arranged in the pilot working chamber (100; 132), the slider being axially movable by means of a magnetic core (62), and A connecting channel (98; 130) is arranged between the pilot control chamber (84; 122) and the pilot working chamber (100; 132) and connects the two to each other in a fluid-technical manner.

14. The damping valve device (54a, 54b, 54c) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: Winding (52), An axially movable magnetic core (62) is arranged at least partially inside the winding (52), wherein: The magnetic core (62) is connected to the main piston (76, 120) so that the magnetic core applies a closing force to the main piston.

15. A shock absorber (10) for a motor vehicle, comprising: An outer tube (12), an inner tube (14) arranged coaxially with the outer tube, and a working piston (18) arranged axially movable inside the inner tube (14), the working piston dividing the inner cavity of the inner tube (14) into a working cavity (22) on the piston rod side and a working cavity (24) away from the piston rod, It is characterized in that The shock absorber has a damping valve arrangement (54a, 54b) according to any of the preceding claims.

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