Damping valve device for a damper

Abstract

The invention relates to a damping valve device (1) for a hydraulic shock absorber (2) of a vehicle, comprising a drive region (19) and a valve region (9), a damping valve housing (3) with a tube (4), which encloses the drive region (19) and the valve region (9), the drive region (19) comprising a coil (8), which is configured to generate a magnetic circuit in the damping valve device (1) and to interact with an armature (11), the armature (11) is installed to be capable of moving in the coil (8) in the axial direction so that the armature (11) can move in the axial direction; wherein the armature (11) is arranged in the polar tube (7), and the polar tube (7) forms a guide device of the armature (11); wherein the valve region (9) has a liquid inlet (28) and a liquid outlet (29) for the entry and exit of hydraulic fluid into and out of the valve region (9), and a valve block (27) having a plurality of fluid paths (20) for conducting hydraulic fluid, wherein the valve region (9) comprises a control slide (17) mounted so as to be movable relative to the valve block (27) so as to be movable between a closed position, in which the fluid path (20) is closed by the control slide (17), and an open position, in which the fluid path (20) is released; the pole tube (7) and the valve block (27) are connected in a mechanical engagement manner.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a damping valve device for a shock absorber, in particular for a shock absorber of a motor vehicle.

[0002] Shock absorbers, especially shock absorbers, are usually used in motor vehicles and installed between the wheel suspension system, especially the axle and the body, to slow down the impact and reduce vibration during driving. In order to improve driving comfort and road safety, the damping characteristics of the shock absorber are usually adjustable. For example, this adjustment is achieved by a solenoid valve, which promotes or hinders the movement of the shock absorber piston by adjusting the flow of hydraulic fluid inside the shock absorber.

[0003] For example, the solenoid valve is usually arranged outside the shock absorber tube and is therefore a module separate from the shock absorber tube, taking up additional installation space inside the vehicle.

[0004] EP2685145A2 discloses a damping valve device which is mounted outside the shock absorber.

[0005] On this basis, the object of the present invention is to reduce the manufacturing costs of a damping valve arrangement, in particular the number and complexity of components, the assembly time and the weight.

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention by a damping valve device having the features of independent device claim 1. Advantageous developments can be gathered from the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a damping valve device for a hydraulic shock absorber of a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, comprises a drive region and a valve region. In addition, the damping valve device comprises a damping valve housing having a pipe surrounding the drive region and the valve region, wherein the drive region has a coil, which is configured to generate a magnetic circuit in the damping valve device and interact with an armature connected in the coil and axially movable, so as to move the armature in the axial direction. The armature is arranged in a pole tube, wherein the pole tube forms a guide for the armature. In particular, the pole tube forms an axial guide for guiding the movement of the armature in the axial direction. The valve region has a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet for injecting and discharging hydraulic fluid into and out of the valve region, and a valve block with a plurality of flow paths for conducting the hydraulic fluid. The valve region has a control slide, which is mounted to be movable relative to the valve block, so that it can be moved between a closed position and an open position, in which the flow path is closed by the control slide and in which the flow path is unobstructed. The pole tube is connected to the valve block by a mechanical joint connection. The pole tube has a profiled edge formed by plastic deformation in particular.

[0008] A mechanical joint connection is preferably understood to be a connection of two components by deformation, wherein at least one of the components is mechanically deformed. The pole tube is connected to the valve block by deformation of the pole tube and / or the valve block, so that the pole tube can be pre-mounted on the valve block in a simple manner so that the pipe can be inserted together with the valve block and connected thereto. As a result, this significantly reduces assembly time and assembly costs.

[0009] According to a first embodiment, the mechanical joint connection comprises plastic deformation of the pole tube. In another embodiment, the mechanical joint connection comprises crimping and / or bead forming of the pole tube.

[0010] For example, the damping valve device, in particular the valve area, comprises a comfort valve and a solenoid valve, which are hydraulically connected in series. The comfort valve and the solenoid valve preferably each have a valve body, the latter in particular jointly forming a valve block. The valve block preferably comprises two valve bodies, a solenoid valve body and a comfort valve body. The solenoid valve body preferably interacts with a control slide movable by a coil. In the direction of the fluid outlet of the damping valve device, the comfort valve body is preferably adjacent to the solenoid valve body. The solenoid valve body and the comfort valve body are preferably fixedly connected together, in particular in a form-fitting, force-fitting and / or materially integral manner.

[0011] The valve block has, for example, a support shoulder on which the pole tube is supported, in particular abuts. The comfort valve body of the valve block preferably has a plurality of fluid channels for conducting hydraulic fluid, which channels can be closed by valve disks of one or more comfort valves.

[0012] The pole tube preferably extends completely in the axial direction and beyond the solenoid valve body. A plurality of fluid channels are preferably formed between the pole tube and the valve block. The pole tube preferably extends at least partially in the axial direction along the comfort valve body. The end region of the pole tube is preferably mechanically shaped to form a mechanically joined connection between the pole tube and the valve block. Preferably, the end region of the pole tube pointing in the direction of the fluid outlet of the damping valve device is shaped radially inwards, in particular forming a radially inwardly directed shaped edge of the pole tube.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the preload element is arranged between the pole tube and the valve block. Preferably, the preload element is arranged between the profile edge and the valve block, in particular the comfort valve block. The preload element is particularly designed to act on the pole tube with an axial spring force and preferably preloads the pole tube on the valve block.

[0014] According to another embodiment, the preload element comprises a spring disk or a disc spring. The preload element is preferably designed in an annular shape.

[0015] According to another embodiment, the pole tube has a profiled edge formed by plastic deformation, wherein the preload element bears against the profiled edge. The preload element preferably bears against a surface of the profiled edge pointing in the axial direction of the valve block.

[0016] According to another embodiment, the preload element abuts against the valve block, in particular the comfort valve body. For example, the preload element is located on a shoulder of the comfort valve body pointing in the direction of the fluid outlet of the damping valve device.

[0017] According to another embodiment, the profiled edge forms a continuous or interrupted ring. When the mechanical connection is designed as a ball forming, the profiled edge of the pole tube is preferably designed as a ring, in particular a closed ring. When the mechanical connection is designed as a curling edge, for example, a plurality of profiled edges are formed in the pole tube, which are preferably evenly spaced from each other and arranged in a ring.

[0018] According to another embodiment, the pole tube and the pipe are connected by a form fit, in particular by a bayonet closure. For assembling the damping valve arrangement, the pole tube and the valve block are preferably connected to one another, thereby forming a pre-assembled module. The pre-assembled module preferably comprises the pole tube, the valve block, the control slide, the armature and the pole part. The pre-assembled module is preferably inserted into the pipe and connected to the pipe by a form fit, in particular a bayonet connection.

[0019] In the following, the direction parallel to the axial centerline of the damping valve device, in particular the pipe of the damping valve device, is understood as the axial direction. The radial direction is understood as a direction extending perpendicularly to the axial direction.

[0020] The hydraulic shock absorber preferably comprises an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder arranged coaxially with the inner cylinder, in particular forming the outer wall of the shock absorber. In the inner cylinder, a piston is preferably mounted on a piston rod so as to be axially movable, dividing the inner cylinder into two working spaces. In particular, the piston has at least two fluid channels, through which one working space is connected to the other working space. An annular space is preferably formed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder, wherein a central pipe is preferably mounted in the annular space and divides the annular space so that it is arranged coaxially between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. The damping valve device is preferably fluidically connected to at least one working space of the inner cylinder and is preferably attached to the central pipe and the outer cylinder of the shock absorber. The shock absorber is preferably completely or partially filled with hydraulic fluid.

[0021] The pipe is preferably designed to be connectable to the outer cylinder and, in particular, has a substantially constant circular cross section. The pipe preferably forms a housing wall of the damping valve arrangement. In particular, the drive region and the valve region are arranged completely within the pipe, so that the pipe preferably extends axially beyond the drive region and / or the valve region. The valve region is preferably arranged in the region of the pipe facing the outer cylinder of the shock absorber, while the drive region is arranged in the opposite region of the pipe facing away from the outer cylinder of the shock absorber. The pipe is preferably made of a magnetic or magnetizable material.

[0022] The drive region preferably comprises an electromagnet, for example an electromagnet comprising a coil with a plurality of windings, which are arranged on a coil carrier. The coil carrier is preferably made of plastic and is in particular substantially hollow cylindrical and is arranged coaxially with the pipe.

[0023] The coil is preferably fixedly connected to the pipe, in particular in a materially integral, form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. For example, a clearance fit is formed between the pole tube and the coil. The coil is preferably designed and arranged to generate a magnetic circuit in the damping valve device. Preferably, a magnetic flux is generated by the coil being loaded with current, which runs along a closed path in the damping valve device. The magnetic circuit includes elements of the damping valve device, through which the magnetic flux generated by the coil runs along the closed path.

[0024] The armature is arranged in the coil, preferably coaxially with the coil. The armature is preferably made of a magnetic or magnetizable material and is in particular a part of the magnetic circuit. Preferably, the armature has a first cylindrical region, which is axially adjacent to a second cylindrical region with a smaller diameter relative to the first region. In particular, a pole tube is arranged between the armature and the coil, which is at least partially hollow cylindrical and extends coaxially with the coil, the pipe and the armature. The pole tube is preferably made of a magnetic or magnetizable material and is in particular a part of the magnetic circuit. For example, the armature is at least partially or completely wrapped by a sliding film such as a PTFE film, thereby promoting the axial movement of the armature in the pole tube. The pole tube preferably has a hollow cylindrical region, which preferably has a substantially constant cross-section and at least partially abuts against the coil, in particular against the coil carrier. In particular, the hollow cylindrical region has a substantially constant inner diameter and / or outer diameter, in particular a constant wall thickness.

[0025] The hollow cylindrical region is preferably configured as a guide device for the armature, in particular an axial guide device, so that the armature can be axially movable in the pole tube. The hollow cylindrical region of the pole tube preferably extends in the axial direction, preferably exceeds the coil in the direction toward the upper part of the housing, and in particular has a bottom at its end, which completely closes the pole tube on the end face. A cylindrical armature space is preferably configured in the hollow cylindrical region, in which the armature and the hydraulic fluid are arranged. The hollow cylindrical region of the pole tube is adjacent to a near-valve region at one end pointing to the valve region in the axial direction, and the near-valve region has at least one or more inner diameter and / or outer diameter expansion parts. The near-valve region of the pole tube is preferably configured as a funnel-shaped structure, wherein the funnel-shaped structure expands in the direction of the valve. The pole tube, in particular the near-valve region of the pole tube, is preferably fixedly connected to the pipe fitting, in particular connected by a form fit, a force fit and / or a material integral connection. For example, the pole tube extends at least partially or completely along the coil, the valve slide and the valve block in the axial direction.

[0026] The pole tube, in particular the valve-proximal region, preferably surrounds the valve block and / or the control slide, in particular circumferentially. Preferably, an annular space filled with hydraulic fluid is formed between the valve block and / or the control slide and the pole tube. The control slide is preferably mounted axially movably relative to the valve block and the pole tube and is arranged coaxially with the pipe and the pole tube. The control slide is preferably operatively connected to the armature, so that the movement of the armature is at least partially or completely coupled to the control slide. The control slide preferably has an axial end face pointing in the direction of the armature and abuts against the armature, so that the movement of the armature is transmitted to the control slide.

[0027] The valve block is preferably arranged coaxially with respect to the pole tube, in particular having a cavity which is fluidically connected to the fluid inlet / fluid outlet so that the hydraulic fluid flows into the valve block. A fluid space is preferably arranged between the valve block and the pole tube, in which the hydraulic fluid can flow. The valve block is configured, for example, as a funnel-shaped structure and, for example, has a cylindrical region facing the drive unit, which is arranged coaxially with the control slide and preferably has a substantially constant cross section. The control slide preferably surrounds the valve block on the periphery and is mounted movably in the axial direction relative to the valve block. In the region facing away from the drive unit, the valve block has, for example, a funnel-shaped radial expansion. The valve block is mounted in a fixed manner, in particular relative to the axially movable control slide, for example, fixedly connected to the pole tube. The valve block is preferably at least partially or completely surrounded by the pole tube element in the peripheral and axial direction, wherein the control slide is arranged between the drive-side region of the valve block and the pole tube element.

[0028] Flow paths, in particular path openings, are preferably arranged in the valve block, through which the hydraulic fluid can flow, in particular from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. The flow paths are preferably arranged in a cylindrical region of the valve block surrounded by the control slide. The control slide is mounted in an axially movable manner so that it can completely release the flow path in the open position of the damping valve device and completely close the flow path in the closed position of the damping valve device. The control slide is mounted in such a way that it can preferably be moved into a plurality of intermediate positions, in which the flow path is partially closed. The control slide is preferably preloaded into the open position by a spring. The spring is preferably arranged between the control slide and the valve block and preferably loads the control slide with a force in the axial direction towards the drive region.

[0029] The pole tube is preferably constructed in one piece. "One-piece" preferably means constructed in the form of a single component, especially in the form of a solid block, while "integral" includes the fixed connection of multiple components by means of, for example, form fit, force fit and / or integral material connection. A one-piece or integrally constructed pole tube significantly simplifies the assembly of the damping valve device. Complex assembly of the pole tube is no longer necessary. In addition, the fastening devices required for assembling multi-component pole tubes are omitted, which brings about a weight reduction. Since the pipe is part of the magnetic circuit, at least a part of the coil carrier, especially the housing, can be omitted, thereby further reducing the weight. For example, the pole tube is produced by a subtractive processing process, especially turning or milling. In particular, the pole tube is manufactured by casting or cold forming.

[0030] The damping valve device has, for example, a sealing element, which is arranged in a chamber, wherein the chamber is arranged between the pole tube, the pipe fitting, and also the coil and / or the support ring. The chamber is preferably closed by the pole tube, the pipe fitting, and also the coil and / or the support element. The chamber is preferably configured to receive a sealing element, in particular a sealing ring. The chamber preferably has a circumferential annular structure, in particular with a rectangular cross-section. The chamber is in particular completely closed and is defined by the pole tube, the pipe fitting and the coil and / or the support ring. The sealing element is preferably a sealing ring, which is attached to the chamber. The sealing element preferably rests at least on the pole tube and the pipe fitting and is used in particular for sealing purposes so that hydraulic fluid does not flow from the valve area into the coil. In particular, the sealing element also rests on a step of the pole tube.

[0031] The chamber for receiving the sealing element is arranged between the pole tube, the tube and the coil and / or the support ring, so that the sealing element can be easily mounted on the pole tube. In particular, damage to the sealing element configured as a sealing ring can be avoided because the assembly can be carried out in a stress-free state as much as possible.

[0032] For example, the sealing element is configured as an O-ring. The sealing element is preferably made of a plastic, in particular an elastomer. The sealing element is in particular an annular structure, preferably having a circular, in particular annular, cross section. Preferably, the cross-sectional diameter of the sealing ring is greater than the cross-sectional width of the chamber, so that the sealing ring preferably abuts against at least three inner surfaces of the chamber.

[0033] In particular, the pole tube has a radial step adjacent to the chamber. Preferably, the radial step is a radial widening of the pole tube relative to the region of the pole tube directly adjacent to the upper part of the housing. Preferably, the pole tube has a plurality of different outer diameters, wherein the outer diameter of the pole tube decreases in particular in the direction from the chamber to the upper region of the housing. The outer diameter of the pole tube in the chamber is preferably greater than or equal to the outer diameter of the portion of the pole tube extending from the chamber to the upper region of the housing. This design facilitates pushing the sealing ring into the pole tube.

[0034] In the axial direction from the drive region to the valve region, the pole tube preferably has a first outer diameter, which is arranged inside the coil. For example, adjacent thereto is a second outer diameter, which is larger than the first outer diameter, so that a step, in particular an axial end face, is formed, which faces the upper region of the housing and against which the coil at least partially rests. The second outer diameter is preferably spaced apart from the inner diameter of the tube, so that a chamber is formed between the pole tube and the tube. The second outer diameter is preferably adjacent to a third outer diameter of the pole tube, which is larger than the first and second outer diameters and preferably substantially corresponds to the inner diameter of the tube, so that the pole tube rests against the tube via the third outer diameter. An axial end face is preferably formed between the second and third outer diameters, which faces the upper region of the housing and defines the chamber.

[0035] For example, the coil has a protrusion extending in the axial direction and adjacent to the chamber. The coil preferably has a housing, which is fixedly connected to the winding and the coil carrier. In particular, the housing is made of plastic, preferably at least partially or completely injection molded around the winding and the coil base. Preferably, the plastic material is molded onto the winding and the coil carrier. Preferably, the housing is formed as a shell surface of the coil, which is directed in the direction of the pipe and particularly abuts against the pipe. For example, the housing is integrally or in one piece with the upper region of the housing. Preferably, the housing is connected to the pipe by a clearance fit or fixedly, in particular by a force fit, a material integral connection and / or a form fit. The coil preferably has a protrusion extending in the axial direction, in particular extending along the inner wall of the pipe between the pipe and the pole tube, and adjacent to the chamber. The protrusion is preferably made of plastic. The protrusion is preferably arranged in the housing or the coil carrier. The end face of the protrusion pointing in the direction of the valve preferably constitutes the boundary of the chamber. Preferably, the pole tube and the pipe are connected to each other by a form fit connection, in particular by a bayonet connection. The form-fit connection has, for example, at least one axial groove arranged in the pole tube, which groove opens toward the chamber. The form-fit connection is in particular a bayonet connection. For example, the pole tube has a plurality of gaps, which are in particular hook-shaped. Each gap comprises, for example, a region extending in particular in the axial direction and a region adjoining thereto and extending in the radial direction. In each case, a radially tapered section of the tube preferably engages in each case in a gap. The gap is preferably a radial depression, which is arranged on the outer surface of the pole tube, which rests against the tube. The gap preferably extends into the chamber, in particular forming an interruption of the contact surface of the sealing element.

[0036] The damping valve device, for example, has a support ring, which is arranged separately from the coil. The support ring preferably rests on the coil at least partially through its outer surface. The support ring is preferably a circumferential ring structure, for example with a rectangular cross-section. In particular, the support ring rests on the inner side of the pipe with its outer surface and on the outer surface of the pole tube with its inner surface. The end face of the support ring pointing in the direction of the valve is particularly adjacent to the chamber. The support ring is preferably fixedly connected to the coil, the pole tube and / or the pipe. Preferably, the support ring forms a bearing surface for the sealing element. For example, the protrusion of the coil is provided as an alternative structure to the support ring or together with the support ring.

[0037] For example, the pole tube has a hollow cylindrical region arranged in the coil, wherein the hollow cylindrical region has a groove extending in the circumferential direction. The groove is preferably formed between the coil and the armature in the pole tube and is designed, for example, in an annular shape. Preferably, the groove extends in the circumferential direction of the pole tube into a completely closed ring around the pole tube or with interruptions. In particular, the groove extends radially from the outside to the inside into the pole tube. The depth of the groove is preferably less than the wall thickness of the pole tube, so that the groove does not form an opening. In particular, the groove is completely or partially filled with material, especially magnetic insulating material, such as plastic material. For example, the groove is completely or partially filled with ambient air. The cross section of the groove preferably has a near-valve region, which gradually widens radially from the inside to the outside in the direction toward the valve region. The pole tube preferably has a conical region in the groove region for introducing a magnetic flux into the armature. In the direction leading to the upper part of the housing, for example, adjacent to the near-valve region of the groove is a region with a rectangular, especially square cross section.

[0038] The coil is preferably fixed axially by the groove. The coil receptacle preferably has a radially inwardly directed protrusion which engages in the groove of the pole tube and has a shape corresponding to the groove cross section, thereby forming a positive connection between the receptacle and the pole tube.

[0039] In particular, the pipe is an integral or one-piece structure. The pipe preferably has a one-piece structure, for example by casting, and is processed in particular by a subtractive method such as turning, laser processing or milling. For example, the pipe can be manufactured by a cold forming process.

[0040] Preferably, the pipe piece extends axially beyond the coil and the valve block. Together with the housing upper part, the pipe piece preferably forms an outer wall of the damping valve device. Preferably, the damping valve device housing consists of the housing upper part and the pipe piece. The pipe piece is preferably directly connected to the housing upper part and the outer cylinder of the shock absorber.

[0041] For example, the pipe is connected to the pole tube by form fit, force fit and / or material integration. Preferably, the pole tube has an annular groove, especially in the proximal valve region, which interacts with the constriction region of the pipe to form a form fit connection.

[0042] For example, the pole tube is designed as an integral and / or one-piece structure and surrounds the armature and the control slide. According to another embodiment, the pole tube extends beyond the valve block in the axial direction. The valve block and the control slide are preferably completely surrounded by the pole tube in the circumferential direction and in the axial direction.

[0043] Preferably, the damping valve device has a flux plate made of magnetic or magnetizable material, which rests against the coil, the pole tube and / or the pipe. The flux plate is preferably mounted on the end face of the coil facing away from the valve region, in particular extending around the armature.

[0044] In particular, the magnetic circuit consists of a coil, a pole tube, a pipe, an armature and a flux plate. The elements of the magnetic circuit are preferably made completely or partially of magnetic or magnetizable material. In particular, adjacent elements of the magnetic circuit directly abut against each other to ensure a magnetic flux that is as unimpeded as possible.

[0045] For example, the flux plate has a circular disk-shaped structure, for example, with at least one radial gap. For example, the flux plate has a plurality of gaps pointing radially from the outside to the inside, and these gaps are especially arranged evenly spaced from each other. These gaps preferably extend radially along the flux plate and occupy about one third to one half of its radius.

[0046] According to another embodiment, the damping valve housing has a housing upper part, which is attached to the front side of one end of the pipe and from which the pole tube extends to the valve block. In the housing upper part, preferably plug-in contacts for the electrical connection of the coil are provided, in particular electrical wires, such as conductor rails, sheet metal strips or copper strips, leading from the plug-in contacts to the coil. The housing upper part is preferably formed as a cover for the pipe.

[0047] The invention also includes a shock absorber for a vehicle, having a damping valve device as described above, wherein the shock absorber has an outer cylinder and the pipe of the damping valve device is in particular directly connected to the cylinder. Preferably, the cylinder is connected to the pipe by a form fit, a force fit and / or a material integral connection. In particular, the cylinder is connected to the pipe by a fastening device. The comfort valve is preferably arranged in the pipe, in particular, hydraulically connected in series with the damping valve device as described above.

[0048] The invention also includes a method for producing a damping valve arrangement as described above, wherein the pole tube and the valve block are connected to one another by means of a mechanical connection.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the pole tube is connected to the pipe part during the mechanical engagement by means of a form-fitting connection, in particular by means of a bayonet connection. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The present invention will be described in more detail below by referring to a number of exemplary embodiments in the accompanying drawings:

[0051] Figure 1shows a schematic side view of a shock absorber with a damping valve arrangement according to an example embodiment;

[0052] Figure 2 : shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a damping valve device according to an example embodiment;

[0053] Figure 3 : shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a damping valve arrangement according to an example embodiment;

[0054] Figure 4 : Two schematic perspective views of a portion of a damping valve arrangement according to two example embodiments are shown.

[0055] Figure 1 A shock absorber 2 for a vehicle chassis is shown, wherein the shock absorber 2 comprises a damping valve arrangement 1 . Figure 1 The shock absorber 2 in the figure is only shown in the form of an external view. The shock absorber 2 preferably comprises a cylinder, which contains a hydraulic fluid in a sealed manner, a piston, which is axially movable in the cylinder along the cylinder axis and divides the cylinder into two working spaces, and a piston rod, which is connected to the piston and oriented parallel to the cylinder axis. In particular, the piston has at least two flow paths, through which one working space is connected to another working space. The shock absorber 2 is, for example, a multi-tube shock absorber. In particular, the shock absorber 2 has an inner cylinder, in which the piston is guided. For example, the outer cylinder 21 is coaxially mounted around the inner cylinder, and an annular space is formed between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder 21. The central tube separating the annular space is preferably mounted between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder 21 and is coaxial with them. In order to damp the piston movement in at least one, preferably two, operating directions, the damping valve device 1 is connected to at least one working space. The damping valve device 1 is preferably attached to the central tube and the outer cylinder 21 of the shock absorber 2.

[0056] Figure 2 A damping valve device 1 is shown, which has a preferably cylindrical damping valve housing 3, including a substantially tubular pipe 4 and a housing upper part 5 attached to the pipe 4. The pipe 4 is connected to the cylinder 21 ( Figure 2The housing upper part 5 is mounted on the other end of the pipe 4, opposite the cylinder 21, and is mounted in such a way that the housing upper part 5 preferably closes the pipe 4 at the end. The housing upper part 5 has, for example, a cylindrical cover part 22, which has a larger diameter than the pipe 4 and protrudes radially beyond the pipe 4. The cover part 22 adjoins a hollow cylindrical part 23, which has a smaller diameter than the pipe 4, in particular smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe 4, and is arranged coaxially with the pipe 4 in the pipe 4. The housing upper part 5, in particular the hollow cylindrical part 23, preferably abuts against the inner wall of the pipe 4. For example, the cover part has an annular gap on the side facing the pipe 4, which gap receives the end of the pipe 4. For example, the pipe 4 is connected to the housing upper part 5 by a form-fit connection 24. For example, the form-fit connection 24 is formed by a radial gap in the housing upper part 5, into which the radial constriction of the pipe 4 is embedded. The form-fit connection 24 is preferably arranged at the end of the pipe 4 facing the housing upper part 5. The housing upper part 5 , in particular the cover part 22 , has a connection region 25 with one or more terminal contacts for power supply of the damping valve device 1 . Preferably, the terminal contacts for power supply are connected to the drive unit 19 .

[0057] For example, the damping valve device 1 comprises a drive region 19 and a valve region 9. The drive region 19 is arranged, for example, in an upper region of the damping valve device 1, which faces the housing upper part 5 and is preferably substantially located above the valve region 9. The drive region 19 preferably comprises a drive device configured as an electromagnet. The electromagnet comprises a coil 8 having a plurality of windings wound by an electrically conductive wire. The coil 8 is preferably arranged in the pipe 4 and arranged coaxially with the pipe 4. The coil 8 is arranged, for example, in a hollow cylindrical portion 23 of the housing upper part 5, in particular against the inner wall of the housing upper part 5. In particular, the coil is cast in the housing upper part 5, wherein the housing upper part 5 is made, for example, of plastic, in particular of a non-magnetic or only weakly magnetic material, preferably a magnetic insulator or a material with high magnetic resistance. For example, the coil comprises a coil carrier, on which the windings of the coil are wound. The coil 8 at least partially or completely surrounds an armature space 26, which extends axially centrally and is coaxial with the pipe 4. The armature 11 is axially movably mounted in the armature space 26. The armature 11 is preferably a cylindrical structure, and its diameter is slightly smaller than the diameter of the armature space 26, so that the armature 11 is preferably mounted to be able to slide in the axial direction. For example, the armature 11 has an upper first cylindrical area facing the housing upper part 5, and is adjacent to a second cylindrical area on one side of the valve area, and the second cylindrical area is coaxially arranged with the first cylindrical area and has a smaller diameter. The armature space 26 is preferably defined by a hollow cylinder 16, which is coaxially arranged with the pipe 4 and is located in the pipe 4. The hollow cylinder 16 preferably has a bottom and is open in particular in the direction pointing to the cylinder 21. The bottom is preferably facing the housing upper part 5 and, for example, at least partially abuts against the housing upper part 5. The hollow cylinder 16 is preferably made of a magnetized or magnetic material.

[0058] The coil 8 is preferably configured and arranged so that, when energized, it is able to form a magnetic field, the magnetic field lines of which preferably run approximately along the axial direction of the armature space 26. The armature 11 is preferably made of a magnetized or magnetic material and can move axially according to the polarity of the magnetic field generated by the coil 8. In particular, the pole portion 12 having a hollow cylindrical structure is arranged in the armature space 26 and is arranged coaxially with the pipe 4. The armature 11, in particular its second cylindrical region, passes through the pole portion 12 from the center in the axial direction. The pole portion 12 is preferably made of a magnetized or magnetic material. The pole portion 12 is particularly against the inner wall of the hollow cylinder 16 and is, for example, fixedly connected to the hollow cylinder 16. Preferably, an annular space is formed between the pole portion 12 and the armature 11, in particular allowing the hydraulic fluid to flow through the space.

[0059] The magnetic flux plate 10 is arranged coaxially around the outer circumference of the hollow cylinder 16. The magnetic flux plate 10 is preferably a hollow cylindrical structure, and in particular abuts against the outer wall of the hollow cylinder 16. In addition, the magnetic flux plate 10 at least partially abuts against the pipe 4, and is preferably a magnetic flux connection between the hollow cylinder 16 and the pipe 4. The magnetic flux plate 10 preferably abuts against the coil 8, and in particular a magnetic flux connection between the hollow cylinder 16, the pipe 4 and / or the coil 8. For example, the magnetic flux plate 10 has at least two opposing gaps, which extend radially from the outside to the inside. Figure 2 The cross-section of is passing through these gaps.

[0060] The pole tube element 6 is coaxially adjacent to the hollow cylinder 16 in the axial direction. The pole tube element 6 and the hollow cylinder 16 together constitute the pole tube 7, wherein the pole tube 7 is particularly configured as a one-piece or integral structure. Preferably, the pole tube element 6 and the hollow cylinder 16 form an integral structure, or are fixedly connected to the hollow cylinder 16 by, for example, form fit, force fit and / or material integration. The hollow cylinder 16 extends at least partially or completely along the axial direction of the coil 8. Preferably, the pole tube element 6 and the hollow cylinder 16 together surround at least the armature 11, the armature space 26 and the pole portion 12.

[0061] The pole tube 7 has an upper tubular region, which has an especially constant inner diameter, preferably comprises a hollow cylinder 16 and extends axially from the upper part of the housing until it extends beyond the armature 11. The upper tubular region adjoins a lower region with an enlarged diameter in the axial direction, wherein the outer surface of the pole tube 7, in particular the outer surface of the pole tube element 6, preferably extends to the pipe 4 and at least partially abuts against it. The inner surface of the lower region of the pole tube element 6 at least partially surrounds the valve region 9, which will be described in detail in the following paragraphs. The pole tube 7 preferably has a gap 18, which is formed, for example, in an annular form at the circumference of the pole tube wall. Preferably, the gap 18 is arranged coaxially with the coil 8, in particular inside the coil 8. For example, the gap 18 has a rectangular cross section.

[0062] Preferably, the pole tube element 6 of the pole tube 7 has a plurality of different inner diameters, each forming a cylindrical space of a different diameter. The pole tube 7 has, in particular, a plurality of different outer diameters. In the axial direction from the drive region 19 to the valve region 9, the pole tube 7 preferably has a first outer diameter, which forms a hollow cylinder 16 and preferably extends along the coil 8. A second outer diameter adjoins it, which is larger than the first outer diameter, so that a step is formed, in particular an axial end face, which faces in the direction of the housing upper part 5 and at least partially abuts the coil 8. The second outer diameter is preferably smaller than the inner diameter of the tube 4 and is, in particular, spaced from the tube 4, so that a chamber 14 is formed between the pole tube 7 and the tube 4. For example, the second outer diameter adjoins the pole tube 7 by a third outer diameter, which is larger than the first and second outer diameters and preferably substantially equal to the inner diameter of the tube 4, so that the pole tube 7 abuts the tube 4 by its third outer diameter. A step is formed between the second and third outer diameters, in particular an axial end face facing in the direction of the housing upper part 5. The pole tube element 6 is preferably made of a magnetizable or magnetic material.

[0063] The chamber 14 is preferably configured to accommodate a sealing element 13, in particular a sealing ring. Preferably, the chamber 14 is configured in a circumferential annular shape, in particular with a rectangular cross section. The chamber 14 is in particular completely closed and is bounded by the pole tube 7, the pipe 4 and, for example, the coil 8. The coil 8 preferably has a projection 15 extending in the axial direction, in particular extending along the inner wall of the pipe 4, extending between the pipe 4 and the pole tube 7, and adjoining the chamber 14. The projection 15 is preferably made of plastic and is in particular connected to the pole tube 7 and the pipe 4 in a form-fitting manner. The end face of the projection 15 facing the valve direction preferably forms the boundary of the chamber 14.

[0064] A sealing element 13 is mounted in the chamber 14, wherein the sealing element 13 is preferably a sealing ring. The sealing element 13 is, for example, in a circumferential annular configuration, preferably with a circular cross section, in particular a circular annular cross section. Preferably, the sealing element 13 abuts at least against the pole tube 7 and the pipe 4, and is used to seal the connection between the valve area 9 and the drive area 19, thereby preventing the hydraulic fluid from entering the coil 8 from the valve area 9. In particular, the sealing element 13 also abuts against a step, preferably against an axial end face between the second and third outer diameters of the pole tube 7.

[0065] As an alternative, the protrusion 15 can be designed as a support ring 15. For example, the support ring 15 is formed independently of the coil 8 and at least partially abuts against the coil 8 with its outer surface. The support ring 15 is preferably designed in an annular shape, for example with a rectangular cross section. In particular, the support ring abuts against the interior of the pipe 4 with its outer surface and against the outer surface of the pole tube 7 with its inner surface. The end face of the support ring 15 pointing in the direction of the valve is adjacent to the cavity 14. The support ring 15 is preferably fixedly connected to the coil 8, the pole tube 7 and / or the pipe 4. The support ring 15 preferably forms a contact surface for the sealing element 13.

[0066] The pole tube element 6 is preferably connected to the pipe 4 by a form-fit connection. This form-fit connection preferably includes a radial gap, in particular a recess, in the pole tube element 6, wherein a radially contracted portion of the pipe 4 engages in the gap and interacts with it, so that the pole tube element 6 is fixed in the axial and radial directions. The form-fit connection is in particular a bayonet connection. For example, the pole tube 7, in particular the pole tube element 6, has a plurality of gaps 33, which are in particular designed as hook-shaped structures. Each gap 33, for example, includes an area extending in particular in the axial direction, and an area extending in the circumferential direction adjacent thereto. At least one or more radially contracted portions 32 of the pipe 4 are preferably embedded in the gap 33. These gaps 33 are preferably radial recesses on the outer surface of the pole tube 7 that abuts against the pipe 4. The gap 33 preferably extends into the chamber 14 and in particular forms an interruption of the contact surface of the sealing element 13. Figure 2 Only the region in which the gap 33 extends in the circumferential direction is partially shown. In this case, the sealing element 13 preferably has a depression and a projection, wherein the projection engages in the gap of the pole tube 7 and is configured, for example, as a form-fitting connection.

[0067] The valve region 9 is preferably integrated into a hydraulic circuit (not shown) and is fluidically connected to the shock absorber 2, in particular to the working space of the shock absorber 2. The valve region 9 has an inlet flow 28 and an outlet flow 29, the function of which can be reversed depending on the flow direction of the damping fluid.

[0068] The valve region 9 of the damping valve device 1 preferably comprises a control slide 17, which is at least partially or completely surrounded in the circumferential direction by the pole tube element 6 and is arranged in particular coaxially with the pole tube element 6 and the pipe 4. The control slide 17 preferably has an axial end face pointing in the direction of the armature 11, and the armature 11, in particular the lower second region of the armature 11, abuts against this axial end face, so that the movement of the armature 11 is transmitted to the control slide 17. In addition, the valve region 9 also comprises a valve block 27. The control slide 17 preferably surrounds the valve block 27 in the circumferential direction and is axially movable relative to the valve block 27. The valve block 27 is in particular designed as a funnel-shaped structure, for example with an upper cylindrical region facing the drive unit 19, which is arranged coaxially with the control slide 17. In the lower region facing away from the drive unit 19, the valve block 27 has, for example, a radially enlarged portion. The valve block 27 is in particular connected in a fixed manner relative to the axially movable control slide 17.

[0069] Preferably, the valve block 27 is preferably at least partially or completely surrounded by the pole tube element 6 in the circumferential and axial directions, wherein the control slide 17 is arranged between the upper region of the valve block 27 and the pole tube element 6. The lower region of the valve block 27 directly adjoins the pole tube element 6 in the radial direction and preferably at least partially abuts against the pole tube element 6. A path opening and / or a flow path 20 (only partially shown) is arranged in the valve block 27, through which the damping fluid can flow from the inlet flow 28 to the outlet flow 29. The control slide 17 is axially displaceably mounted so that it completely releases the flow path 20 in the open position of the damping valve device 1 and completely closes the flow path 20 in the closed position. The control slide 17 can preferably be in a plurality of intermediate positions in which the flow path 20 is partially closed. The control slide 17 is preferably preloaded into the valve opening position by a spring (not shown), so that the damping valve is in the open state when the coil 8 is not energized. The spring is preferably arranged between the control slide 17 and the valve block 27 and preferably applies an axial force to the control slide, which force is directed in the direction of the drive area 19. Preferably, an annular space 30 for conducting the damping fluid is configured between the valve block 27 and the pole tube element 6. The annular space 30 preferably extends completely around the upper area of ​​the valve block 27, which can be surrounded by the control slide 17, in particular, the annular gap extends at least partially or completely around the lower area of ​​the valve block 27. The control slide 17 is preferably axially movable in the annular space 30.

[0070] The damping valve device 1 is used in particular for steplessly adjusting the damping of a shock absorber 2. During operation of the shock absorber 2, the coil 8 is energized to set the desired damping. This generates a magnetic field whose magnetic field lines run essentially in the axial direction inside the coil, in particular in the armature space 26. The magnetic flux of the magnetic field runs in a magnetic circuit formed in the damping valve device 1. The magnetic circuit includes components made of a low magnetic resistance material, preferably a magnetic or magnetizable material. The magnetic circuit for conducting the magnetic field, in particular the magnetic flux, is preferably formed by a flux plate 10, a hollow cylinder 16, a pole tube element 6, an armature 11, a pipe part 4 and / or a pole part 12. The armature 11 moves axially according to the polarity of the magnetic field. The movement of the armature 11 is transmitted to a control slide 17 coupled to the armature 11, so that the control slide 17 closes or at least partially releases the flow path 20 of the valve block 27. Figure 2 An open position of the damping valve arrangement 1 is shown by way of example.

[0071] Figure 3 A detailed cross-section of the valve region 9 is shown, which is substantially similar to Figure 2. The valve area 9 preferably includes a comfort valve and a solenoid valve, which are hydraulically connected in series. For example, the valve block 27 includes two valve bodies 34 and 35. The valve body 34 pointing in the direction of the drive area is, for example, a solenoid valve body, which preferably has a flow path 20 and a plurality of flow channels 31 as described above, and interacts with the control slider 17, which can be moved by the coil 8. In the direction of the cylinder 21 of the shock absorber 2, the valve body 35 (preferably the comfort valve body 35) is adjacent to the valve body 34. The solenoid valve body 34 and the comfort valve body 35 are preferably fixedly connected together. In particular, the solenoid valve body 34 and the comfort valve body 35 are connected by shape fit, force fit and / or integral material connection. For example, the valve block 27 is designed as an integral or one-piece structure.

[0072] The valve block 27, in particular the solenoid valve body 34, has a cylindrical region in which the flow path 20 is formed. The cylindrical region preferably adjoins an at least partially funnel-shaped region in the direction toward the comfort valve, the diameter of which increases, in particular, in the direction toward the comfort valve. Preferably, the fluid channel 31 is formed in this funnel-shaped region. The at least partially funnel-shaped region preferably has a support shoulder 38, by which the pole tube 7 is supported and in particular abuts against it. The funnel-shaped region preferably adjoins a cylindrical region of constant diameter, forming, for example, an axial end face facing the comfort valve, which end face is designed, for example, in an annular form.

[0073] The comfort valve body 35 of the valve block 27 has a connection area for shape fit, force fit and / or material integral connection of the comfort valve body 35 with the solenoid valve body 34. In particular, the axial end face of the solenoid valve body 34 abuts against the comfort valve body 35. Preferably, the comfort valve body 35 has an axial step that abuts against the inner surface of the cylindrical area of ​​the solenoid valve body 34. For example, the comfort valve body 35 is basically disc-shaped or funnel-shaped, and its diameter decreases in the direction of the cylinder 21 of the shock absorber 2. In the direction toward the cylinder 21, it is preferably adjacent to a cylindrical area with a basically constant diameter, and a fluid inlet 28 is preferably formed in this cylindrical area. The fluid outlet 29 is formed in particular between the comfort valve body 35 and the pole tube 7.

[0074] The comfort valve body 35 preferably has a plurality of fluid channels for conveying hydraulic fluid, which fluid channels can be closed by at least one or more valve disks of the comfort valve.

[0075] The pole tube 7 preferably extends axially completely to the solenoid valve body 34 and beyond the solenoid valve body 34. A plurality of fluid channels 31 are preferably formed between the pole tube 7 and the valve block 27. For example, the pole tube 7 at least partially extends axially along the comfort valve body 35. The end of the pole tube 7 is preferably formed by mechanical deformation to form a connection between the pole tube 7 and the valve block 27. The pole tube 7 and the valve block 27 are connected together in particular by mechanical engagement. For example, the connection is a crimping or ball connection. Preferably, the end region of the pole tube 7 pointing in the direction of the comfort valve is formed radially inward, thereby in particular forming a molded edge 36 pointing radially inward.

[0076] Preferably, a preload element 37 is provided between the profiled edge 36 and the valve block 27, in particular the comfort valve block 35. The preload element 37 is particularly designed to act on the pole tube 7 with an axial spring force and preferably supports it relative to the valve block 27. The preload element 37 is preferably a disc spring or a spring washer, which is designed, for example, in an annular shape. The preload element 37 preferably abuts against the axial end face of the profiled edge 36 pointing in the direction of the valve block 27. In addition, the preload element 37 particularly abuts against the valve block 27, in particular the comfort valve body 34. For example, the preload element 37 abuts against the shoulder of the comfort valve body 35 facing the cylinder barrel 21.

[0077] Figure 4 Two alternative mechanical connections are shown for connecting the pole tube 7 to the valve block 27. The left-hand view shows a ball forming, in which the forming edge 36 is designed in annular form and forms a closed ring. The right-hand view shows a crimping connection, in which a plurality of forming edges 36 are formed, which are preferably evenly spaced from one another and arranged in a ring.

[0078] When assembling the damping valve device 1, the pole tube 7 and the valve block 27 are preferably preassembled first to form a preassembled module. The preassembled module preferably includes the pole tube 7, the valve block 27, the control slide 17, the armature 11 and the pole part 12. The preassembled module is preferably inserted into the pipe part 4 and connected to the pipe part 4 by a form-fit connection, in particular a bayonet connection.

[0079] List of reference numerals:

[0080] 1 Damping valve device

[0081] 2 Shock absorbers

[0082] 3 Damping valve housing

[0083] 4 Pipe fittings

[0084] 5 Upper part of the housing

[0085] Hexapolar tube element

[0086] 7-pole tube

[0087] 8 Coil

[0088] 9 Valve area

[0089] 10 Flux Plate

[0090] 11 Armature

[0091] 12 Pole

[0092] 13 Sealing element

[0093] 14 Chamber

[0094] 15 Protrusion / Support Ring

[0095] 16 Hollow Cylinder

[0096] 17 Control Sliders

[0097] 18 Grooves

[0098] 19 Drivers

[0099] 20 Circulation Path

[0100] 21 Cylinder

[0101] 22 cover

[0102] 23 Hollow cylindrical part / accommodation part

[0103] 24 Form-fit connection

[0104] 25 Connection area

[0105] 26 Armature Space

[0106] 27 Valve block

[0107] 28 inlet flow / fluid inlet

[0108] 29 outlet flow / fluid outlet

[0109] 30 Ring Space

[0110] 31 Circulation Channel

[0111] 32 Contraction

[0112] 33 Gap in the pole tube

[0113] 34 Solenoid valve body

[0114] 35 Comfort valve body

[0115] 36 Molded Edge

[0116] 37 Preload Components

[0117] 38Shoulder support

Claims

1. A damping valve device (1) for a vehicle hydraulic shock absorber (2), comprising: Actuator area (19) and valve area (9), A damping valve housing (3) with a pipe piece (4) which surrounds a drive region (19) and a valve region (9), The drive region (19) comprises a coil (8) which is configured to generate a magnetic circuit in the damping valve device (1) and to interact with an armature (11), the armature (11) being mounted to be able to move axially in the coil (8) so as to move the armature (11) axially, wherein the armature (11) is arranged in a pole tube (7) which forms a guide for the armature (11), The valve region (9) comprises a fluid inlet (28) and a fluid outlet (29) for allowing hydraulic fluid to enter and exit the valve region (9), and a valve block (27) comprising a plurality of fluid paths (20) for conducting the hydraulic fluid. The valve region (9) comprises a control slide (17) which is mounted so as to be movable relative to the valve block (27) so as to be movable between a closed position, in which the fluid path (20) is closed by the control slide (17), and an open position, in which the fluid path (20) is released. Features include: The pole tube (7) and the valve block (27) are connected by mechanical joining, wherein the pole tube (7) has a profiled edge (36) which is produced by plastic deformation of the pole tube.

2. Damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the mechanical engagement comprises a plastic deformation of the pole tube (7).

3. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the mechanical connection comprises a crimping and / or a ball forming of the pole tube (7).

4. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein a preload element (37) is arranged between the pole tube (7) and the valve block (27).

5. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the preload element (37) comprises a leaf spring or a plate spring.

6. Damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the preload element (37) bears against the profiled edge (36).

7. The damping valve device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the profiled edge (36) forms a continuous or discontinuous ring.

8. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 4, wherein the preload element (37) bears against the valve block (27).

9. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the pole tube (7) and the pipe element (4) are connected by a positive connection, in particular by a bayonet closure.

10. The damping valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the pole tube (7) extends axially beyond the valve piece (27).

11. A damping valve device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping valve housing (3) has a housing upper part (5) which is attached to an end face of the pipe component (4), and the pole tube (7) extends from the housing upper part (5) to the valve block (27).

12. A shock absorber (2) for a vehicle, comprising a damping valve device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the shock absorber has an outer cylinder (21) and the pipe (4) of the damping valve device (1) is connected to the cylinder (21).

13. A method for producing a damping valve arrangement (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the pole tube (7) and the valve block (27) are connected by mechanical joining.

14. The method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the pole tube (7) is connected to the pipe part (4) by a form-fit connection, in particular a bayonet connection, during the mechanical engagement.

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