Valve for liquid or gaseous media, and valve device

Abstract

A valve and a valve arrangement for a liquid or gaseous medium. The valve is provided with: a valve housing having a passage connecting an inlet and an outlet; a valve seat surrounding the passage and placed on the valve housing, comprising a valve seat surface closable by a sealing cone of the valve element, the sealing cone being arranged in an adjustment space between the inlet and the passage or between the passage and the outlet; an actuator including a shape memory alloy and controlling the opening and closing movement of the valve element by a control device through a current supply; and an energy storage element which resists the opening and closing movement of the valve element caused by the actuator, in which a medium-side housing section is formed, comprising an inlet, an outlet, a passage and an adjustment space through which the medium can flow, and a surrounding-side housing section, which surrounds the opening and closing movement of the valve element, is formed. An actuator, an energy storage element and a connection port for a control device are arranged in a surrounding side housing section through which a medium cannot flow, the two housing sections forming a valve housing and being separated by a joint in a media-tight manner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve for a liquid medium or a gaseous medium and a valve device having such a valve. In particular, the valve is a control valve or a shut-off valve. Background Art

[0002] A temperature control valve for temperature-dependent flow control of a medium is known from DE 10 2016 113 964 A1. The temperature control valve comprises a valve housing having a valve closing member arranged in the valve housing, which closes the valve seat of the passage opening in the valve housing in the closed position. The valve closing member is actuable by an actuator, which counteracts an energy storage storage element acting on the valve closing member during the adjustment movement. The valve housing has an inlet opening leading to the interior of the housing and an outlet opening leading to the outside of the interior of the housing for the through-flow of the mass flow inside the medium housing. The actuator is also arranged in the interior of the housing. Depending on the temperature of the medium flowing through the valve housing, the actuator controls the valve closing member so that the valve closing member moves to an operating position in which the passage opening is closed.

[0003] A valve for gaseous or liquid media is also known from DE 10 2014 105 100 A1. In the valve housing, an inlet opening and an outlet opening are provided, which are connected to each other via a passage hole. The passage hole comprises a valve seat that can be closed by a valve closing member. In order to open the passage, an actuator engaged on the valve closing member is driven. During the opening movement of the valve closing member, a force is applied to the energy storage element. The actuator comprises a wire element, in particular, the actuator comprises a shape memory alloy that can be activated by an electric current supply. The valve closing member and the energy storage element as well as the actuator are arranged in a regulating space of the valve housing through which the medium flows. Summary of the invention

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a valve and a valve arrangement for a liquid or gaseous medium, in particular a control valve or a shut-off valve, by means of which a volume flow of the medium can be driven regardless of the temperature of the liquid or gaseous medium to be controlled.

[0005] The object is achieved by a valve, in particular a control valve or a shut-off valve, having a valve housing with at least one channel connecting at least one inlet opening to at least one outlet opening, the valve having a valve seat surrounding the channel which can be closed by a sealing cone of a valve element, wherein the sealing cone is arranged in a regulating space which is arranged between the inlet opening and the channel or between the channel and the outlet opening, and the valve having at least one actuator which comprises a shape memory alloy, the actuator being driven by a current supply via a control device and actuating the valve element for opening or closing the channel, and the valve having an energy storage An element, which energy storage element resists the closing or opening movement of the valve element, wherein a medium-side shell section is formed, which includes at least an inlet opening, an outlet opening, a passage hole and a regulating space through which a gaseous medium or a liquid medium can flow, and wherein a surrounding side shell section is formed, in which at least an actuator, an energy storage element and at least one connecting port for a control device are arranged, and wherein a gaseous medium or a liquid medium cannot flow through the surrounding side shell section, and wherein the medium-side shell section and the surrounding side shell section are arranged to be separated from each other and separated from each other in a medium-tight manner by a joint.

[0006] The valve has the advantage that the temperature of the gaseous or liquid medium has little or no influence on the opening and closing movement of the valve element, since the at least one actuator is arranged on the surrounding side and temperature influences of the at least one actuator due to the medium are therefore prevented by the medium-tight joint. In addition, the joint has the advantage that the actuator consisting of a shape memory alloy can be operated at ambient temperature, in particular at room temperature, so that additional precautions can be omitted and a simple drive is achieved.

[0007] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the valve element extends on both sides of the joint into the medium-side housing section and the surrounding-side housing section. This enables the actuating movement driven by the at least one actuator to be directly transmitted to the valve element and in particular to the sealing cone for opening and closing the valve seat.

[0008] It is preferably provided that the valve element comprises: a valve body; and a valve needle; and a sealing cone arranged on the valve needle. The valve body, the valve needle and the sealing cone can be formed as one component as the valve element. Alternatively, it can be provided that the valve body and the valve needle are formed as one component, and the sealing cone can be fixed on the valve needle. In addition, it can be provided that the sealing cone and the valve needle are formed as one component, and the valve body can be connected to the valve needle. This can be achieved, for example, by a screw connection, a latch connection or a clamp connection. Preferably, the valve needle and the sealing cone are arranged in the adjustment space of the medium-side housing section, and at least the valve body is arranged in the surrounding side housing section. Therefore, a simple construction of the valve can be achieved. A simple drive of the opening and closing movement of the valve element can be maintained.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the joint has an opening through which the valve element extends, wherein at least one sealing element is arranged on or in the opening. This arrangement enables the valve element to be formed as one component, for example, and thus, due to the arrangement or attachment of the sealing element, there is still a sufficient media-tight separation between the media-side housing section and the surrounding-side housing section.

[0010] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the valve needle of the valve element extends through the opening and the sealing element surrounds the valve needle in a sealing manner. The valve needle has a constant cross section at least along the travel path of the valve element, so that the valve needle allows the joint to be in a media-tight manner along the travel path of the valve element.

[0011] Alternatively, it can be provided that the engagement portion is formed as a membrane and that the valve body located in the surrounding housing section is preferably engaged on the membrane and that the valve needle located in the medium-side housing section is conversely engaged on the membrane and the valve body. Thus, in other words, a one-piece design of the valve element for direct transmission of the stroke movement can be achieved in reverse. The membrane is preferably designed to be flexible so that it can be deflected at least in the circumferential section perpendicularly to the extension level of the membrane so that the valve element can pass the necessary stroke path.

[0012] In particular, it is provided that the membrane comprises an opening in which the valve body and the valve needle are connected to each other. Preferably, the opening is sealed or enclosed in the membrane by the valve body and the valve needle. Alternatively, it can be provided that the membrane extends completely over the joint, that is to say that the membrane is formed without an opening and that the valve body and the valve needle are fixed to the membrane and opposite to each other.

[0013] According to further alternative embodiments of the membrane as joint, it can be provided that the membrane is formed in one piece with the valve needle, or that the membrane is formed in one piece with the valve body, or that the membrane is formed in one piece with both the valve needle and the valve body.

[0014] The medium-side housing section and the surrounding-side housing section are advantageously formed as a one-piece valve housing. The joint is arranged in the transition region between the medium-side housing section and the surrounding-side housing section. The joint can be inserted into the one-piece valve housing in a medium-tight manner. Alternatively, the joint can also be formed as a component in the valve housing.

[0015] The medium-side housing segment and the surrounding-side housing segment can also be formed separately from each other and can be connected to form a valve housing. Thus, a flexible design can be achieved, wherein, for example, the medium-side housing segment can be combined with different surrounding-side housing segments. This allows the valve element to be provided with different surrounding-side drive and / or control components, which need to be adapted accordingly to the different requirements for the opening and closing movement of the valve body or the valve element. In addition, the surrounding-side housing segment can be combined with different medium-side housing segments. Thus, drives for medium-side housing segments of different sizes can be provided.

[0016] The medium-side housing segment and the surrounding-side housing segment, which are formed in a manner separate from each other, can be connected to each other by a non-detachable connection or by a detachable connection. The non-detachable connection can be realized, for example, by welding or soldering the housing segments. Likewise, the latch connection or the snap connection can be formed in a non-detachable or detachable manner. For the detachable connection, for example, a threaded connection can be provided.

[0017] A further preferred design of the valve provides that the sealing element aligned for the opening in the joint can be positioned on or in the joint in the media-side housing section by a detachable fastening element or by a non-detachable fastening element. Thus, a simplified installation is allowed by the in particular one-piece valve element.

[0018] The sealing cone positioned on the valve needle is preferably fixed by a fastening element. For example, the fastening element can be a retaining ring or the like. Alternatively, the sealing cone can also be fixed by a threaded connection or a plug connection and / or a latch connection.

[0019] After the sealing cone has been positioned on the valve needle, the sealing sleeve forming the valve seat can preferably be inserted into the medium-side housing section, in particular, the sealing sleeve forming the valve seat can be inserted into the medium-side housing section via the outlet opening. Preferably, a valve seat surface pointing toward the sealing cone is provided on the sealing sleeve. On the one hand, this enables simple installation, and on the other hand, this enables the sealing cone and the valve seat surface to be easily adapted to each other. For example, the selected material pair can be used depending on the gaseous medium or liquid medium to be controlled. Here, the same material or different materials can be selected for the sealing cone and the sealing sleeve, in particular, materials that are coordinated with each other can be selected for the sealing cone and the sealing sleeve.

[0020] According to a further advantageous design of the valve, it is provided that the preassembled assembly can be inserted into the surrounding housing section. This again enables simple and rapid installation. In addition, the assembly can be adapted to different requirements, wherein the valve housing can remain formed in the same manner as the media-side housing section.

[0021] The assembly preferably comprises a mounting sleeve on which the actuator is provided with at least one connection port for the control device and the actuator engages with the end of the energy storage element, wherein the opposite end of the energy storage element is supported on the guide section. The guide section comprises a first guide element. The first guide element is capable of guiding the guide section, in particular, the first guide element is capable of guiding the guide section in the surrounding side housing section. In addition, the guide section comprises a second guide element guided in the mounting sleeve. This configuration of the assembly enables these components to be inserted into the surrounding side housing section of the valve housing as a manageable unit.

[0022] The second guide element of the second guide section is preferably formed in a pencil shape or rod shape. Thus, the second guide element allows the second guide element to be guided in the mounting sleeve on the one hand and the first guide element to be guided to the inner wall surrounding the side housing section on the other hand. Thus, there is a double guide, in particular, a double guide of the valve body or valve element.

[0023] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the energy storage element surrounds the second guide element. This allows a space-saving assembly to be formed.

[0024] The at least one actuator is preferably engaged on the guide section from the mounting sleeve. For example, the actuator can be in the form of an FGL wire (FGL=shape memory alloy). One or more actuators can be aligned in such a way that they extend parallel to each other. Alternatively, it can be provided that the at least one actuator is deflected relative to the mounting sleeve by means of at least one deflector arranged on the guide section. Thus, a double energy can be achieved by a predetermined travel path of the at least one actuator between the mounting sleeve and the guide section. Such an actuator has the advantage that the actuator allows a noiseless drive of the valve element.

[0025] Advantageously, it is provided that the first guide element, in particular the guide section, and the valve body of the valve element are formed as one component, or that the first guide element, in particular the guide section, and the entire valve element are formed as one component. This allows a reduction in components for constructing the assembly.

[0026] According to a further preferred embodiment of the valve, it is provided that the regulating space of the media-side housing section is assigned at least one further first inlet opening, so that when the valve element is in the closed position, the regulating space can be flowed through, or so that when the valve element is in the open position, the regulating space and the outlet opening can be flowed through. This allows in particular a plurality of valves to be arranged in a row with one another in a connection block or a distribution housing and to be driven.

[0027] According to a further advantageous design of the invention, a detection device is arranged on the component or is assigned to the component, by means of which the drive position and / or the stroke movement of the valve element can be detected. For example, the detection device can be positioned on the mounting sleeve or can be aligned with the mounting sleeve. Due to the detection device, the position of the front end of the second guide element in the mounting sleeve can be detected, for example. Since the second guide element of the guide section is advantageously fixedly connected to the valve element, the position of the sealing cone relative to the valve seat can be detected directly. For example, the detection device can be formed as a Hall sensor. In addition, an optical detection device or different sensor devices that detect the traverse movement of the second guide element can be used. The signals detected by the detection device can be forwarded to a control device, which evaluates these detected signals. For example, here, a transmission can be made to a display so that the current position of the valve element in the valve relative to the valve seat is displayable. In addition, the control signal can be further processed. For example, for an underfloor heating system, the required closing or opening movement of the valve element can be driven in the case of a change in room temperature.

[0028] A further preferred embodiment of the valve provides that the valve is formed as an insertable cartridge which has a fastening section at one end. This embodiment allows such a valve to be inserted into a connection block or a distribution housing. Since the fastening element engages radially in a recess on the valve housing, simple fastening and simple replacement of the valve in the connection block or distribution housing is possible, and the fastening section provided on one end of the valve can be formed as an external thread. A union nut can also be held on the fastening section.

[0029] The object of the invention is also achieved by a valve device in which a valve according to one of the aforementioned embodiments can be inserted into a terminal opening of a terminal housing. For example, the terminal housing can be used as a valve block for an underfloor heating system.

[0030] Furthermore, it is preferably provided that a circumferential groove is provided on the outer side of the valve housing of the valve, in which circumferential groove the fastening element engages and in which the valve is axially fixed to the terminal housing in the terminal opening. This arrangement has the advantage that the valve can be inserted into the terminal housing regardless of any radial alignment and the valve can be fixed in the terminal housing by the fastening element laterally engaging on the terminal housing. Alternatively, it can be provided that the medium-side housing section comprises an external threaded portion which can be screwed into the terminal opening of the terminal housing. In both alternatives, such a valve can be quickly mounted in the terminal housing.

[0031] The valve device can have a terminal housing according to a first embodiment, the terminal housing comprising an inlet, an outlet and a channel all connected to the terminal opening. Such a terminal housing can represent a single module, which can be connected to other terminal housings to form a distributor, for example. The channel of a terminal housing can be connected to the inlet of an adjacent terminal housing so that these single modules can be aligned with each other. Preferably, the outlet opening and the outlet on the terminal housing can also be designed as an insertion opening for a valve that can be inserted into the terminal housing.

[0032] According to an alternative embodiment of the valve device, it is provided that the terminal housing has an inlet and a passage, wherein at least one terminal opening is provided between the inlet and the passage, which terminal opening extends through the terminal housing as an insertion opening. Such a terminal housing preferably forms a distributor, via which a plurality of circuits can be driven with corresponding valves. In particular, such a distributor can be used with an underfloor heating system. For example, such a distributor can accommodate 6 or 8 valves, i.e. 6 or 8 circuits can be controlled individually. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The invention and its further advantageous and further embodiments are described and illustrated in more detail below with reference to the examples shown in the accompanying drawings. According to the invention, the features obtained from the description and the drawings can be used alone or together in any combination. In the drawings:

[0034] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the valve,

[0035] Figure 2 Shown according to Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of a valve,

[0036] Figure 3 Shown according to Figure 1 A perspective view of the components of the valve,

[0037] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 A schematic side view of an assembly of

[0038] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a valve of

[0039] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative embodiment of a valve of

[0040] Figure 7 Shown according to Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a valve of

[0041] Figure 8 The terminal housing and the Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the valve device of the valve,

[0042] Fig. 9 Shown according to Figure 2 A schematic side view of an alternative embodiment of a valve of

[0043] Fig.10 Shown is the Fig. 9 Schematic side view of the terminal housing of a valve,

[0044] Fig.11 Shown according to Fig. 9 A schematic side view of a further alternative embodiment of a valve of

[0045] Fig.12 Shows multiple Fig.11 Schematic side view of the terminal housing of a valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of a valve 11 is shown. The valve 11 is capable of controlling the flow of a liquid medium or a gaseous medium. The valve 11 can be controlled as a control valve or a shut-off valve. In particular, such a valve 11 is used in an underfloor heating system. The liquid medium used in the underfloor heating system is water heated to about 40° C. In addition, the valve 11 can be used in a building for a radiator, which is supplied with water heated to about 60° C., for example. Preferably, the pressure of the medium can be controlled to 8 bar or 6 bar. In this context, the heating cycle of the underfloor heating system or radiator can be controlled individually by each valve 11.

[0047] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1Schematic cross-sectional view of a valve 11 in FIG. The valve 11 is formed, for example, as an NC valve (NC=normally closed). The valve 11 is arranged such that the valve 11 is closed in the initial position. Due to the activation of the drive, the valve 11 is opened. The valve 11 comprises a valve housing 12. The valve housing 12 comprises a lower section forming a medium-side housing section 14. In addition, the valve housing 12 comprises a top section forming a surrounding side housing section 16. The two housing sections 14, 16 form the valve housing 12. A joint 18 is provided between the medium-side housing section 14 and the surrounding side housing section 16, the joint 18 separating the two housing sections 14, 16 from each other, preferably, the joint 18 separating the two housing sections 14, 16 from each other in a medium-tight manner. Therefore, the medium-side housing section 14 has a medium to be controlled flowing through the medium-side housing section 14. The medium does not reach the surrounding side housing section 16. The surrounding housing section 16 is located outside the medium and is preferably surrounded by the ambient air in a room, a control cabinet or the like.

[0048] The medium-side housing section 14 comprises a passage 21, which connects at least one inlet opening 22 to at least one outlet opening 23. The inlet opening 22 can also be used as an outlet opening, and the outlet opening 23 can also be controlled as an inlet opening. An adjustment space 24 is formed between the inlet opening 22 and the passage 21. In the passage 21, a sealing sleeve 26 with a valve seat surface 27 is preferably inserted. The sealing sleeve 26 can be inserted into the medium-side housing section 16 on the outlet opening 23. For example, the sealing sleeve 26 can be screwed or pressed in a defined position relative to the passage 21 by a separate fastening element, or the sealing sleeve 26 can be positioned in a defined position relative to the passage 21 by a separate fastening element, such as a stabilizing ring. A sealing cone 28 assigned to the valve seat surface 27 is provided. The sealing cone 28 has a closing surface which points towards the sealing sleeve 26 , so that when the sealing cone 28 is positioned on the sealing sleeve 26 , the closing surface lies on the valve seat surface 27 and the passage is closed.

[0049] In the surrounding side housing section 16, a component 31 is inserted. The component 31 is Figure 3 is shown in a stereogram and in Figure 4 1 and 2. The assembly 31 is schematically shown in a side view in FIG. The assembly 31 is formed as a manageable unit which can be inserted into the surrounding side housing section 16 via the front end. The assembly 31 can be inserted into an opening in the valve housing 12 opposite the joint 18.

[0050] The assembly 31 comprises a mounting sleeve 32. The mounting sleeve 32 has an outer circumferential fastening element 34, by which the assembly 31 can be locked after being inserted into the surrounding side housing segment 16. The mounting sleeve 32 is assigned a guide segment 36. The guide segment 36 can be moved relative to the mounting sleeve 32. The guide segment 36 has a first guide element 37, which is guided in a movable manner along the inner circumferential wall surrounding the side housing segment 16. In addition, the guide segment 36 has a second guide element 38, which extends from the first guide element 37. The second guide element 38 is formed in a rod shape or a pencil shape. The front end of the second guide element 38 is guided to a guide hole 39 in the mounting sleeve 32. The first guide element 37 and the second guide element 38 are fixedly arranged on the guide segment 36, preferably, the first guide element 37 and the second guide element 38 are fixedly arranged on the guide segment 36 in one piece. An energy storage element 41 is arranged between the first guide element 37 and the mounting sleeve 32. The energy storage element 41 surrounds the second guide element 38. The energy storage element 41 is held pretensioned between the guide section 36 and the mounting sleeve 32.

[0051] A deflector 42 is arranged in the guide section 36. At least one actuator 43 is guided along the deflector 42. Each end of the actuator 43 is fixedly held on the mounting sleeve 32. Advantageously, a connection port 45 for the control device 19 is arranged on each end of the actuator 43. The connection port 45 can be formed as a plug. In particular, a crimping 44 is provided. The crimping 44 is fixedly attached to the end of the actuator 43. The actuator 43 is preferably formed as a wire. The crimping 44 enables the actuator 43 to be fed into the mounting sleeve 32 through a side slit 46 and the crimping 44 can be fixedly held in the mounting sleeve 32. The actuator 43 is held in the mounting sleeve 32 from the end by the crimping 44 and the actuator 43 extends from there in the direction of the deflector 42. The actuator 43 is guided back again to the mounting sleeve 32 via the deflector 42 and is advantageously fixedly held again at the mounting sleeve 32 by means of the crimp 44. This gives a predetermined distance between the mounting sleeve 32 and the guide section 36. Due to the crimped energy storage element 41, the guide section 36 and the mounting sleeve 32 are aligned at a defined distance from one another.

[0052] Furthermore, a detection device 47 can be provided on the mounting sleeve 32. The detection device 47 enables the position of the second guide element 38 to be determined within the mounting sleeve 32. Thus, the position of the sealing cone 28 relative to the valve seat surface 27 can be detected. The detection device 47 can transmit the detected signal to the control device 19 for further processing or for controlling the valve 11. For example, a control signal can be output by the control device 19, a current between 0 A and 2 A being output. The magnitude of the control signal depends on the opening stroke of the sealing cone 28 from the valve seat surface 27 controlled to achieve the desired room temperature. Here, a timed or continuous variation of the control current can be controlled. The ambient temperature detected for controlling the underfloor heating system or the radiator can be determined by a two-dimensional characteristic diagram or a three-dimensional characteristic diagram. The drive power for a valve 11 of this type is preferably less than or equal to 1 W.

[0053] The actuator 43 is designed as a wire element, for example. In particular, the actuator 43 is arranged as a wire element formed as a straight line, and the actuator 43 can be deflected around the deflector 42. The actuator 43 is a wire made of a shape memory alloy, and the length of the actuator 43 changes according to the current. When there is no current supply, the actuator 43 is at an initial length. The increased current supply shortens the actuator 43. Advantageously, the actuator 43 can be arranged to be surrounded by a sleeve. Here, the sleeve can be a plastic sleeve or a Teflon sleeve. The sleeve can only extend over the area of ​​the deflector 42, so that the friction between the deflector 42 and the actuator 43 is reduced. In addition, the sleeve can extend completely from one crimping piece 44 via the deflector 42 to another crimping piece 44. Therefore, the actuator 43 is completely surrounded and protected.

[0054] Furthermore, the assembly 31 comprises a valve element 29. The valve element 29 comprises a Figure 3 and Figure 4 The valve body 49 of the embodiment in the embodiment. The valve body 49 can be connected to the guide section 36. The valve body 49 and the guide section 36 can also be integrally formed as one part. Preferably, the valve body 49 includes a first guide element 37. The valve element 29 includes a valve needle 51 arranged on the valve body 49. The valve needle 51 is aligned in a manner opposite to the guide section 36. A receiving section 52 is provided at the free front end of the valve needle 51, and the sealing cone 28 can be fixed on the receiving section 52. In this embodiment, the valve element 29 is formed as two pieces. The valve body 49 and the valve needle 51 are preferably formed as one piece, and the sealing cone 28 can be fixed to the one piece. The valve needle 51 can also be fixed to the valve body 49 as a separate part.

[0055] according to Figure 2, the valve housing 12 is preferably formed in one part. The valve housing 12 is, for example, an injection-molded housing made of plastic. The valve housing 12 can also be formed of metal or the like. Both the medium-side housing section 14 and the surrounding-side housing section 16 are formed in one part. The joint 18 is also formed in one part with the housing sections 14, 16. Alternatively, it can be provided that the joint 18 is inserted into the valve housing 12 before or after the assembly 31 is inserted into the surrounding-side housing section 16. This can be done through the front opening on the surrounding-side housing section 16 and through the outlet opening 43 of the medium-side housing section 14.

[0056] An opening 54 is provided in the joint 18. The assembly 31 is inserted into the surrounding side housing section 16. The assembly 31 can be secured in the insertion position relative to the surrounding side housing section 16 by a secure element 58 to prevent disengagement. In this article, the valve needle 51 is guided through the opening 54 so that the valve needle 51 is positioned in the adjustment space 24 of the medium-side housing section 14. Then, the sealing element 53 is positioned relative to the joint 18. The sealing element 53 is preferably a shaft seal. The sealing element 53 preferably includes a circumferential groove aligned with the adjustment space 24 in a manner open toward the adjustment space 24, and the circumferential groove is particularly a V-shaped groove. Due to the upcoming pressure of the medium in the adjustment space 24, the inner section adjacent to the groove and the outer section of the sealing element 53 are enlarged. Thus, a sealing arrangement of the sealing element 53 for both the joint 18 and the valve needle 51 is achieved. The sealing element 53 is fixedly held relative to the joint 18 by a fastening element, and the fastening element is particularly a retaining ring. The outer circumferential portion of the valve needle 51 is guided upward and downward in a medium-tight manner within a sealing element 53 .

[0057] Thereafter, the sealing cone 28 is positioned on the terminal section 52 of the valve needle 51. The sealing cone 28 is inserted through the outlet opening. Advantageously, the sealing cone 28 is fixed in a defined position relative to the valve needle 51 by a fastening element, in particular a retaining washer. For this purpose, preferably a shoulder is provided on the valve needle 51, which shoulder merges into the terminal section 52. The sealing sleeve 26 is then preferably inserted into the adjustment space 24 via the outlet opening 23. The sealing sleeve 26 can also be fixedly held in the outlet opening 23 by a fastening element, in particular a retaining ring. A press-in or similar manner can also be provided.

[0058] according to Figure 2 An alternative embodiment of the valve 11 may include the fact that a separation point is formed between the valve needle 51 and the valve body 49. This alternative embodiment may be provided in that a separation point is formed with Figure 3 and Figure 4A modified assembly 31 constructed in a similar manner, except that the valve needle 51 is not provided on the valve body 49. The valve needle 51 having the sealing cone 28 arranged on the receiving section 52 is inserted into the medium-side housing section 14 and is thereafter fixed by the sealing sleeve 26. The end of the valve needle 51 opposite to the sealing cone 28 protrudes through the opening 54 of the joint 18 into the interior space surrounding the side housing 16. The modified assembly 31 can be inserted into the interior space. After the valve body 49 is positioned relative to the valve needle 51, the valve body 49 and the valve needle 51 can be fixedly connected to each other. This produces a similar Figure 2 The valve body 49 and the valve needle 51 are formed as two parts but are arranged to be fixed to each other.

[0059] The assembly 31 is preferably formed with a fixed function. This is the so-called fail-safe function. If the actuator 43 is damaged or is no longer controlled in the event of a power failure, the valve element 29 is acted upon by the energy storage element 41 and is transferred into a closed position relative to the valve seat 25. As a result, the passage 21 is closed and thus a throughflow of the medium is prevented.

[0060] Figure 5 Shown according to Figure 2 Schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a valve 11. Figure 5 This embodiment differs only in the construction of the valve housing 12. In this embodiment, it is provided that the medium-side housing segment 14 and the surrounding side housing segment 16 are formed as two separate components. For example, the joint 18 is arranged on the surrounding side housing segment 16. The medium-side housing segment 14 does not include such a joint 18. The two housing segments 14, 16 can be inserted into each other so as to subsequently form a non-detachable connection between the two housing segments 14, 16. Depending on the material of the valve housing 12, this can be achieved by adhesive, welding or soldering. Alternatively, the two housing segments 14, 16 can also be threaded or latched to each other. It should be understood that the joint 18 can also be provided on the medium-side housing segment 14 or on the two housing segments 14, 16. The joint 18 can also be formed as a separate component, which is positioned and fixed or clamped between the media-side housing section 14 and the surrounding-side housing section 16 before they are connected.

[0061] Figure 6 Shown according to Figure 2 Further alternative embodiments of the valve housing 12 of the valve 11 of FIG. Due to the different embodiments of the valve housing 12 , there are also different embodiments of the valve element 29 .

[0062] In this embodiment, it is provided that the joint 18 is formed as a membrane, in particular as a continuous membrane. The membrane can be formed as one component on one of the two connectable housing sections 14, 16, or the membrane can be formed as one component with the valve housing. Alternatively, the continuous membrane can also be clamped as a joint 18 between two separate housing sections 14, 16. This again achieves a media-tight separation between the media-side housing section 14 and the surrounding-side housing section 16.

[0063] Due to the continuous membrane, the valve body 49 is formed without a valve needle 51. Instead, the valve body 49 has a placement surface pointing towards the membrane so as to drive the deflection movement of the membrane. The valve needle 51 is arranged opposite to the valve body 49 and on the other side of the membrane. This again accommodates the sealing cone 28 on the terminal section 52. This arrangement has the advantage that no additional sealing elements are required. The joint 18 formed as a membrane is elastic so as to enable a stroke movement of the valve element 29 to open and close the passage 21. The valve body 49 and the valve needle 51 can also be connected to each other via an opening 56 in the membrane, wherein, after the valve body 49 is connected to the valve needle 51, the opening 56 in the membrane is closed again in a medium-tight manner.

[0064] Figure 7 Shows Figures 1 to 6 An alternative embodiment of the valve 11. Figures 1 to 6 The valve 11 is formed as an NC valve. Figure 7 The valve 11 is formed as a NO (normally open) valve. The valve 11 is set to be open in the initial position, and when the actuator 43 is supplied with current, the valve 11 can be converted into a closed position.

[0065] For structure and function, please refer to Figures 2 to 6 .according to Figure 7 The NO valve 11 of the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the valve needle 51 extends through the sealing sleeve 26. The sealing cone 28 arranged on the valve needle 51 is positioned between the outlet opening 23 of the medium-side housing 14 and the sealing sleeve 26. The sealing cone 28 is positioned in the initial position of the valve 11 so that the sealing cone 28 is lifted above the opposite valve seat surface 27 provided on the sealing sleeve 26. As a result, the passage 21 between the outlet opening 23 and the inlet opening 22 is opened.

[0066] As soon as the actuator 43 of the assembly 31 is supplied with current, this results in a closing movement of the valve element 29. The sealing cone 28 is transferred to rest on the valve seat surface 27 and the passage 21 is closed.

[0067] In this embodiment, all further alternative embodiments relating to a one-piece or two-piece valve housing and / or a joint and / or a membrane arranged as a component on the valve housing or a joint and / or a membrane that can be inserted into the valve housing can also be provided.

[0068] Figure 8 A valve device 61 is shown. The valve device 61 comprises a valve 11 according to one of the above-described embodiments. In addition, the valve device 61 comprises a terminal housing 62 having a terminal opening 63, into which the medium-side housing segment 14 of the valve 11 can be inserted. The terminal opening 63 is connected to an inlet 64 and an outlet 66. After being inserted into the terminal opening 63, the medium-side housing segment 14 of the valve 11 is positioned between the inlet 64 and the outlet 66. In order to seal and position the medium-side housing segment 14, the medium-side housing segment 14 has a circumferential groove 71 above and below the inlet opening 22, in which a seal 72 is positioned, in particular a sealing ring. The valve 11 is fixed in the terminal opening 63 by a fastening element 68. The fastening element 68 has a front end 69, which engages in a circumferential groove on the valve housing 12, and the front end 69 engages in a circumferential groove on the surrounding side housing segment 16. This enables the valve 12 to be merely inserted into the terminal opening 63 without radial alignment with the inlet 64 and / or the outlet 66. Due to the fastening element 68, the valve 12 is axially secured relative to the terminal opening 63.

[0069] The terminal housing 62 may be, for example, a valve block of an underfloor heating system. Advantageously, a plurality of terminal openings 63 are provided in the terminal housing 62 adjacent to one another in order to drive a plurality of heating circuits of an underfloor heating system, in particular heating circuits for the floor.

[0070] Fig. 9 Shows Figures 1 to 7 Another alternative embodiment of the valve 11 of the present invention. In this embodiment, a fastening section 81 is provided on a lower end or a front end of the medium-side housing section 14. The fastening section 81 can be formed as a threaded portion according to the first embodiment, in particular, the threaded portion is an external threaded portion. This enables a hose with a threaded connection to be connected to the fastening section 81. The fastening section 81 can be formed as a component with the medium-side housing section 14, in particular, the fastening section 81 can be formed as a component with the medium-side housing section 14 in the valve housing 12 made of plastic. The fastening section 81 can also be arranged on the medium-side housing section 14 by a detachable connection.

[0071] This type of valve 11 is preferably formed as a plug-in cartridge. The plug-in cartridge can be inserted into a terminal housing 62 to form a valve device 61, for example Fig.10 The terminal housing 62 includes a terminal opening 63, which together with the outlet 66 forms an insertion opening. Fig. 9 The valve 11 can be inserted into the terminal housing 62 from below. The plug-in cartridge can be secured in the terminal housing 62, for example, by means of a fastening element 68, such as Figure 8 Described in .

[0072] The terminal housing 62 includes an inlet 64 opposite to the passage 83. The passage 83 is also connected to the terminal opening 63. The terminal housing 62 is thus formed as a single module. This enables a plurality of terminal housings 62 to be connected to each other in series or in a row.

[0073] according to Fig.10 Such a valve device 61 with a terminal housing 62 has the following advantages: when the valve element 29 is in the closed position, the medium guided through the inlet 64 flows through the adjustment space 24 and is guided to the channel 83. When the valve element 29 is transferred to the open position, the medium guided to the inlet 64 can both flow out through the outlet 66 and reach the channel 83.

[0074] Fig.11 Shows Fig. 9 An alternative embodiment of a valve 11 of the present invention is provided. In this embodiment, a union nut is provided on a retaining section (not shown in more detail) instead of a fastening section 81 formed as a threaded section. The retaining section is preferably connected to the front end of the media-side housing section 14 as one component.

[0075] Fig.12 Shows Fig.10 The terminal housing 62 comprises an inlet 64 and a channel 83, wherein a plurality of insertion openings aligned with each other are arranged in a row between the inlet 64 and the channel 83. These insertion openings are each formed by a terminal opening 64 and an outlet 66. The terminal housing 62 can be used as a distributor housing for an underfloor heating system. The medium guided to the inlet 64 can be guided to the corresponding outlet 66 according to the drive of the corresponding valve 11. At the same time, the medium can flow through the corresponding adjustment space 24 and reach the channel 83.

[0076] according to Fig. 9 and Fig.11 An alternative embodiment of the valve 11 may include a valve according to Figures 1 to 7 All embodiments of the above-mentioned embodiments of the valve 11.

[0077] Reference numerals list

[0078] 11 Valve

[0079] 12 Valve body

[0080] 14 Housing section, medium side

[0081] 16 Around the side casing section

[0082] 18 Joint

[0083] 19 Control Device

[0084] 21 access

[0085] 22 Entrance opening

[0086] 23 Exit opening

[0087] 24 Adjustment Space

[0088] 25 Valve seat

[0089] 26 Sealing sleeve

[0090] 27 Seat surface

[0091] 28 Sealing cone

[0092] 29 Valve element

[0093] 31 Components

[0094] 32 Mounting sleeve

[0095] 33 Shoulders

[0096] 34 Fastening elements

[0097] 36 Guide section

[0098] 37 First guide element

[0099] 38 Second guide element

[0100] 39 Guide hole

[0101] 41 Energy storage element

[0102] 42 Deflector

[0103] 43 Actuator

[0104] 44 Crimp

[0105] 45 Connection Ports

[0106] 46 Side gap

[0107] 47 Detection device

[0108] 49 Valve body

[0109] 51 Valve needle

[0110] 52 Terminal section

[0111] 53 Sealing element

[0112] 54 opening of the joint

[0113] 56 Opening

[0114] 58 Stabilizing elements

[0115] 61 Valve Equipment

[0116] 62 Terminal housing

[0117] 63 Terminal opening

[0118] 64 Entrance

[0119] 66 Exit

[0120] 67 Grooves

[0121] 68 Fastening elements

[0122] 69 End of fastening element

[0123] 71 Circumferential groove

[0124] 72 Seals

[0125] 81 Fastening section

[0126] 83 channels.

Claims

1. A valve for a liquid or gaseous medium, the valve comprising a valve housing (12), the valve housing having at least one passage (21) connecting at least one inlet opening (22) to at least one outlet opening (23), the valve having a valve seat (25) surrounding the passage (21) and arranged on the valve housing (12), the valve housing (12) comprising a valve seat surface (27) which can be closed by a sealing cone (28) of a valve element (29), wherein: The sealing cone (28) is arranged in a regulating space (24), the regulating space (24) being arranged between the inlet opening (22) and the passage (21) or between the passage (21) and the outlet opening (23), the valve having at least one actuator (43), the actuator (43) comprising a shape memory alloy, the actuator (43) controlling the opening and closing movement of the valve element (29) by means of a control device (19) through the supply of electric current, and the valve having an energy storage element (41), the energy storage element (41) resisting the opening or closing movement of the valve element (29) caused by the actuator (43), It is characterized in that - a medium-side housing section (14) is formed, the medium-side housing section (14) comprising at least the inlet opening (22) through which the gaseous or liquid medium can flow, the outlet opening (23), the passage (21) and the conditioning space (24), - a surrounding side housing section (16) is formed, in which at least the actuator (43), the energy storage element (41) and at least one connection port (45) for the connectable control device (19) are arranged, wherein the gaseous or liquid medium cannot flow through the surrounding side housing section (16), and The medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16) form the valve housing (12) and are separated from one another in a medium-tight manner by a joint (18).

2. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve element (29) extends on both sides of the joint (18) into the media-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16).

3. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve element (29) comprises: a valve body (49); a valve needle (51); and a sealing cone (28) which can be arranged on the valve needle (51).

4. The valve according to claim 3, characterized in that The valve body (49) and / or the valve needle (51) and / or the sealing cone (28) are formed as one part.

5. The valve according to claim 3, characterized in that The valve needle (51) and the sealing cone (28) are arranged in the regulating space (24) of the medium-side housing section (14), and the valve body (49) is arranged in the surrounding-side housing section (16).

6. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The joint (18) has an opening (54), through which the valve element (29) extends, and at least one sealing element (53) is arranged on or in the opening (54).

7. The valve according to claim 6, characterized in that The valve needle (51) extends through the opening (54) of the joint (18), and the sealing element (53) surrounds the valve needle (51) in a sealing manner.

8. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The joining portion (18) is formed as a membrane and engages the valve body (49) in the surrounding housing section (16) on the membrane and conversely engages the valve needle (51) in the medium-side housing section (14) on the membrane and the valve body (49).

9. The valve according to claim 8, characterized in that The membrane includes an opening (56), and the valve body (49) and the valve needle (51) are connected to each other in the opening (56), wherein the opening (56) is sealed by the valve body (49) and the valve needle (51) connected to the valve body (49); or, the membrane is continuously formed and does not have the opening (56), and the valve body (49) and the valve needle (51) are respectively fixed on opposite sides of the membrane.

10. The valve according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The membrane is formed as one piece with the valve needle (51), or the membrane is formed as one piece with the valve body (49), or the membrane is formed as one piece with both the valve needle (51) and the valve body (49).

11. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16) form a one-piece valve housing (12), and the joint (18) can be inserted in a medium-tight manner into a transition area between the medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16), or the joint (18) is formed as a single component with the valve housing (12).

12. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16) are formed to be separated from each other and can be connected to form a valve housing (12), and the joint (18) is formed on the medium-side housing section (14), or on the surrounding-side housing section (16), or on both the medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16), or the joint (18) can be fixed on the medium-side housing section (14), or on the surrounding-side housing section (16), or on both the medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16).

13. The valve according to claim 12, characterized in that The medium-side housing section (14) and the surrounding-side housing section (16) can be combined by a non-detachable connection or by a detachable connection to form the valve housing (12).

14. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The sealing element (53) arranged for an opening in the joint (18) is positioned on, in or to the joint (18) by a detachable fastening element or by a non-detachable connection.

15. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that After the valve needle (51) has been positioned in the adjustment space (24) of the media-side housing section (14), the sealing cone (28) can be attached to the valve needle (51).

16. The valve according to claim 15, characterized in that The sealing cone (28) is detachable on the valve needle (51) via a detachable connection.

17. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that After the sealing cone (28) has been positioned on the valve needle (51), the sealing sleeve (26) can be inserted through the outlet opening (23) into the medium-side housing section (14), and the valve seat surface (27) is provided on the sealing sleeve (26) for the placement of the sealing cone (28).

18. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The component (31) is insertable into the surrounding side shell section (16), wherein the component (31) comprises a mounting sleeve (32), at least one actuator (43) having at least one connection port (45) for the control device (19) is positionable on the mounting sleeve (32), and an end of the energy storage element (41) is supported on the mounting sleeve (32), wherein the opposite end of the energy storage element (41) is supported on a guide section (36), and the guide section (36) comprises a first guide element (37) guided in the surrounding side shell section (16), and a second guide element (38) guided on or in the mounting sleeve (32).

19. The valve according to claim 18, characterized in that The second guide element (38) is formed in a pencil shape or a rod shape, and the second guide element (38) is surrounded by the energy storage element (41).

20. The valve according to claim 18, characterized in that At least one of the actuators (43) engages on the guide section (36) from the mounting sleeve (32), or at least one of the actuators (43) is guided or deflected on the guide section (36) by at least one deflector (42).

21. The valve according to claim 18, characterized in that The guide section (36) and the valve body (49) of the valve element (29) are formed as one component, or the guide section (36) and the valve element (29) are formed as one component.

22. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The regulating space (24) of the medium-side housing section (14) is assigned at least one further first inlet opening (22), so that flow can flow through the regulating space (24) when the valve element (29) is in the closed position, or so that flow can flow through the regulating space (24) and the outlet opening (23) when the valve element (29) is in the open position.

23. The valve according to claim 18, characterized in that A detection device is arranged on the component (31), through which the controlled position of the valve element (29) can be detected.

24. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve housing (12) is formed as a plug-in cylinder which has a fastening section (81) at one end.

25. The valve according to claim 1, characterized in that The valve is a control valve or a shut-off valve.

26. A valve device having a terminal housing (62) in which a terminal opening (63) is provided, the terminal opening (63) extending at least partially between at least one inlet (64) and at least one outlet (66), characterized in that: The valve (11) according to claim 1 can be inserted into the terminal opening (63) of the terminal housing (62).

27. The valve device according to claim 26, characterized in that A circumferential groove (67) is provided on the outer side of the valve housing (12) of the valve (11), and a fastening element (68) that can be inserted into the terminal housing (62) engages in the circumferential groove, and in the circumferential groove (67), the fastening element (68) axially secures the valve (11) in the terminal opening (63) of the terminal housing (62), or an external threaded portion is provided on the medium-side housing section (14), and the external threaded portion can be screwed into the internal threaded portion in the terminal opening (63).

28. The valve device according to claim 26, characterized in that The terminal housing (62) has an inlet (64), an outlet (66) and a passage (83), and the inlet (64), the outlet (66) and the passage (83) are all connected to the terminal opening (63).

29. The valve device according to claim 26, characterized in that The terminal housing (62) has an inlet (64) and a passage (83), wherein at least one terminal opening (63) is provided between the inlet (64) and the passage (83), the terminal opening (63) extending through the terminal housing (62) as an insertion opening.

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