Valve system, actuator for a valve, and method for controlling a valve with an actuator

Abstract

A valve system, an actuator for a valve, and a method of controlling a valve with an actuator. The valve system may include a valve body having an inlet and an outlet; a valve member movable between an open position and a closed position to fluidly couple and disconnect the inlet and the outlet; and an actuator. The actuator may include an actuation chamber, an actuator member for moving the valve member, a port, and a control system. The port may be arranged to allow flow from the inlet to the first and second volumes of the actuation chamber, and to allow flow from the first and second volumes of the actuation chamber to the outlet. The control system may selectively direct fluid flow through the port.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to valve systems, actuators for valves, and methods of controlling valves with actuators. Background Art

[0002] Flow control devices including valve systems can be used in various industrial, commercial, and other environments to regulate the flow rate or pressure of fluid flowing from a fluid source. In some applications, it may be useful to manage the flow rate, pressure, or other characteristics of fluid flowing from a fluid source to a downstream pipe, application, or device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some examples of the present disclosure provide a valve system. The valve system can include a valve body having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet can provide an entrance to an upstream fluid passage of the valve body, and the outlet can provide an outlet to a downstream fluid passage of the valve body. The valve system can further include a valve member and an actuator. The valve member can be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage and the downstream fluid passage when the valve member is in an open position, and can fluidly disconnect the upstream fluid passage and the downstream fluid passage when the valve member is in a closed position. The actuator can include an actuator chamber, an actuator member, ports, and a control system. The actuator member can move within the actuator chamber to move the valve member between the open position and the closed position. The actuator member can form a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber within the actuator chamber. The ports can be arranged to permit flow from the upstream fluid passage to the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber, and to permit flow from the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber to the downstream fluid passage. The control system can be operable to selectively direct fluid flow from the upstream fluid passage through one or more of the ports to the actuator chamber, and fluid flow from the actuator chamber through one or more of the ports to the downstream fluid passage.

[0004] Some examples of the present disclosure provide an actuator for a valve. The valve may include: a valve body that defines a valve inlet and a valve outlet; and a valve member that is movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit or block flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet. The actuator may include an actuator chamber, a piston system, and a control system. The piston system may include a piston that forms a first actuator volume and a second actuator volume within the actuator chamber and is movable relative to the actuator chamber to move the valve member between the open position and the closed position. The control system may control the movement of the piston. The control system may include a first flow controller and a second flow controller. The first flow controller may be arranged to selectively permit fluid flow from the valve inlet to one or more of the first actuator volume and the second actuator volume within the actuator chamber. The second flow controller may be arranged to selectively permit fluid flow from one or more of the first actuator volume and the second actuator volume within the actuator chamber to the valve outlet.

[0005] Some examples of the present disclosure may provide a method of controlling a valve using an actuator. The method may include moving a valve member of the valve toward a closed position to prevent flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet, including by controlling one or more flow controllers of the actuator to: divert fluid from the valve inlet to a first actuator volume on a first side of a piston connected to the valve member within the actuator chamber to increase the pressure in the first actuator volume, and divert fluid from a second actuator volume on a second side of the piston within the actuator chamber to the valve outlet to decrease the pressure in the second actuator volume. The method may also include moving the valve member toward an open position to permit flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet, including by controlling one or more flow controllers to: divert fluid from the valve inlet to the second actuator volume within the actuator chamber to increase the pressure in the second actuator volume, and divert fluid from the first actuator volume within the actuator chamber to the valve outlet to decrease the pressure in the first actuator volume. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a valve system according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0007] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a valve system according to another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0008] Figure 3 is Figure 2 an isometric cross-sectional view of the valve system of

[0009] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a valve system according to another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0010] Figure 5 is Figure 3Isometric cross-sectional view of the valve system, showing an exemplary flow path.

[0011] Figure 6 Is a cross-sectional view of a valve system according to another embodiment of the disclosed technology.

[0012] Figure 7 Is a schematic illustration of a control system for a valve according to an embodiment of the disclosed technology. Detailed Description

[0013] The concepts disclosed in this discussion are described and illustrated with reference to exemplary arrangements. However, these concepts are not limited in their application to the construction details and component arrangements in the illustrative embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various other ways. The terms in this document are used for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. Words such as "including", "comprising", and "having" and their variants as used herein mean covering the items listed thereafter, their equivalents, and additional items.

[0014] Although the valve systems disclosed herein can be embodied in many different forms, several specific embodiments are discussed herein, with the understanding that the embodiments described in this disclosure are only considered examples of the principles described herein and that the disclosed technology is not intended to be limited to the illustrated examples.

[0015] Embodiments of the disclosed technology include a valve system that includes a valve body and a power module. The power module of the valve body can include an actuator arrangement that can be remotely (or otherwise) controlled and reduces (e.g., eliminates) the risk of leakage at the actuator arrangement and the valve body to provide a zero-emission valve system.

[0016] Some conventional valves include an actuator that can actuate a piston or other valve member to open and close the valve. In such conventional valves, the actuator can extend between the inside and the outside of the valve body of the valve, thus requiring a seal at the actuator to prevent process fluid from flowing out of the valve body interior and leaking into the atmosphere. In conventional valves where the actuator requires physical movement relative to the valve body, the seal at the actuator can be configured as a dynamic seal (e.g., a seal designed to reduce (but not stop) fluid leakage between relatively moving components). It is not uncommon for dynamic seals to wear over time and eventually leak, resulting in potential unwanted leakage and emissions of process fluid into the atmosphere.

[0017] Embodiments of the present disclosure address these and other drawbacks of conventional valve systems. For example, embodiments of the valve systems described herein do not include any dynamic seals between the interior of the valve body and the atmosphere. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure can utilize process fluid pressure to apply a force on the valve member, causing the valve to generate a stroke. This can eliminate the need for an external power source acting on the valve member to provide flow control.

[0018] Figures 1 to 6 An exemplary valve system in accordance with embodiments of the disclosed technology is illustrated. As also described below, valve systems in accordance with embodiments of the disclosed technology can include variations in form factor (e.g., physical dimensions, component geometries, component parts, and fluid flow paths), and can provide flow control for a wide range of flows.

[0019] Figure 1 A valve system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the disclosed technology is illustrated. The valve system 100 can include a valve body 102 having a valve inlet 104 and a valve outlet 106. The inlet 104 can at least partially define an upstream fluid passage 108, and the outlet 106 can at least partially define a downstream fluid passage 110 (e.g., can be formed as an inlet and an outlet for passage 108 and passage 110, respectively, or otherwise). The valve system 100 can also include a valve member 112 and an actuator 114. The valve member 112 can be disposed within the valve body 102 to fluidly couple (or decouple) the upstream fluid passage 108 and the downstream fluid passage 110. That is, when the valve member 112 is in the open position, fluid can flow from the valve inlet 104 toward the valve outlet 106, and when the valve member 112 is in the closed position, fluid flow between the valve inlet 104 and the valve outlet 106 is prevented. In some embodiments, the valve member 112 can be adjusted to an intermediate position between the open and closed positions to controllably meter the flow through the valve system 100.

[0020] The actuator 114 can include an actuator chamber 124 and a piston system 126. As shown, the actuator chamber 124 is formed in the valve body 102. The piston system 126 can include an actuator member 128 (e.g., a piston) that is located within the actuator chamber 124 and divides the actuator chamber 124 into sub-chambers 134 (e.g., a first actuation volume) and 136 (e.g., a second actuation volume). Thus, a first side 142 of the actuator member 128 faces the sub-chamber 134, and a second side 144 of the actuator member 128 faces the sub-chamber 136.

[0021] Continuing reference Figure 1, in the illustrated embodiment, the valve member 112 is integrally formed with the actuator member 128 to form a single integral body. For example, the single integral body can be integrally formed from a single piece without connectors or couplings. Thus, the valve member 112 can be part of the piston system 126. However, in some embodiments, other configurations are possible, including the use of diaphragms or other piston system and valve member configurations. For example, the actuator member can be mechanically or otherwise linked to the valve member (e.g., two or more bodies are directly coupled together) such that movement of the actuator member corresponds to movement of the valve member.

[0022] As Figure 1 shown, the valve system 100 can include a set of ports 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 102 can include a first port 150a, a second port 150b, a third port 150c, and a fourth port 150d. The set of ports 150 can generally be configured as inlets to the actuator chamber 124 (e.g., as channels or other openings in the valve body 102). The first port 150a can be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage 108 to the sub-chamber 134, the second port 150b can be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage 108 to the sub-chamber 136, the third port 150c can be arranged to fluidly couple the sub-chamber 134 to the downstream passage 110, and the fourth port 150d can be arranged to fluidly couple the sub-chamber 136 to the downstream passage 110.

[0023] The valve system 100 can also include a first actuation passage 154 and a second actuation passage 156 that connect the upstream fluid passage 108 and the downstream fluid passage 110 to the actuator chamber 124, respectively, via the set of ports 150. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation passage 154 and the second actuation passage 156 extend outside the valve body 102. However, in other embodiments, the actuation passages can be formed within the valve body (see, for example Figure 2 ). Generally, the first actuation passage 154 can facilitate selectively relaying high pressure (relative to the outlet 106) from the valve inlet 104 to the actuator chamber 124. Correlatively, the second actuation passage 156 can facilitate selectively releasing high pressure from the actuator chamber 124 to the valve outlet 106. The first actuation passage 154 can optionally include a filter 158. In use, the filter 158 can help prevent solid particles or other debris from passing through the set of ports 150 from the upstream fluid passage 108.

[0024] As briefly described above, the valve member 112 can be used to selectively open and close the valve system 100 via the actuator 114. According to an embodiment of the disclosed technology, the actuator 114 can include a control system 166 to control the actuator member 128. The control system 166 can include flow controllers 168a - 168d, which can allow or prevent fluid flow between the upstream fluid passage 108 and the actuator chamber 124 and between the actuator chamber 124 and the downstream fluid passage 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the flow controllers 168a - 168d are disposed at respective ports 150a - 150d of the set of ports 150. That is, in the Figure 1 embodiment shown, the valve system 100 includes four ports 150a - 150d and corresponding four flow controllers 168a - 168d. However, in other embodiments, fewer flow controllers can be used to direct fluid flow through a set of ports (see, for example, Figures 4 to 6 ).

[0025] In addition, in other embodiments, the valve system can include additional ports and additional flow controllers. For example, in the valve system 100, one or more of the ports 150a - 150d can be configured as a subset of multiple ports. Thus, such an arrangement can provide primary and secondary ports to supplement fluid flow between the actuator chamber 124 and the upstream channel 108 and the downstream channel 110, which in turn can provide increased fluid flow into or out of the actuator chamber 124. Generally, a valve system with an actuator can improve the response speed of the valve to changing process conditions, the actuator having an array of ports and flow controllers in communication with a logic controller. Thus, the valve can experience a higher control resolution, which can allow the valve to maintain its set point with higher accuracy and less deviation from changing conditions.

[0026] Furthermore, this increase in fluid flow from the primary and secondary ports can increase or modulate the stroke speed of the actuator 114 and thus the valve member 112. In some cases, the flow through the primary and secondary ports can be controlled identically. Additionally, in some cases, the primary port can have a primary flow controller, and the secondary port can have a secondary flow controller to selectively control the rate at which any one or more chambers can be filled or emptied.

[0027] Generally, the flow controllers 168a - 168d can be configured as valve assemblies or other flow control devices of various known types, which can block or allow flow into, out of, or through a particular port. For example, one or more of the flow controllers 168a - d can include a diaphragm or be configured as a solenoid valve assembly, or at least include a movable sealing portion of the solenoid system 170 (e.g., various known types of solenoid - operated plugs).

[0028] It should be noted that in some embodiments of the valve system described herein (e.g., as shown in each of the figures in the accompanying drawings), the movable part of the flow controller (e.g., the sealing part of the solenoid) is completely enclosed within the valve system. That is, the flow controller is completely isolated from the atmosphere, such that any flow passing through the flow controller (e.g., intentional flow or leakage) will remain within the valve system (i.e., along the closed flow path between the valve inlet 104 and the valve outlet 106) and not be discharged to the atmosphere. This isolation of the flow controller can allow the valve system described herein to be configured as a zero-emission valve system.

[0029] Contrary to the techniques disclosed herein and briefly described above, some conventional valve systems can include an actuator that extends between the interior and exterior of the valve body (i.e., across the outer wall of the valve body). In such a conventional valve, a dynamic seal can be used to prevent leakage between the valve system and the atmosphere at the actuator. Generally speaking, a dynamic seal is characterized by a seal between two bodies that move relative to each other. Thus, in a conventional valve, if the dynamic seal at the actuator wears or fails, there is a risk that unwanted fluid will be discharged into the atmosphere surrounding the valve. As discussed herein, embodiments of the subject matter of the present invention can address these and other drawbacks of conventional valves.

[0030] Continuing to refer Figure 1 , various operating principles of the valve system 100 will be described. For example, in use, to close the valve 100, the control system 166 can direct the first flow controller 168a to open to allow fluid to flow from the upstream fluid passage 110 through the first port 150a and into the sub-chamber 134 of the actuator chamber 124. The control system 166 can also direct the fourth flow controller 168d to open and allow fluid to flow from the sub-chamber 136 of the actuator chamber 124 through the fourth port 150b into the downstream fluid passage 110. In this regard, when the valve system 100 is installed within a working pipeline or other fluid flow system, the pressure at the valve inlet 104 is typically higher than the pressure at the valve outlet 106. Thus, during a valve closing event, the higher pressure acts on the first side 142 of the actuator member 128 to move the actuator member 128, thereby moving the valve member 112 toward the closed position.

[0031] Similar to the valve closing sequence described above, to open valve 100, control system 166 can direct third flow controller 168c to open to allow fluid to flow from sub-chamber 134 of actuation chamber 124 through third port 150c and into downstream fluid passage 110. In parallel with or after the delay, control system 166 can direct second flow controller 168b to open to allow fluid to flow from upstream fluid passage 110 through second port 150b and into sub-chamber 136 of actuation chamber 124. Thus, in a valve opening event, the higher pressure from upstream fluid passage 108 acts on second side 144 of actuator member 128 to move actuator member 128, and thus move valve member 112 toward the open position.

[0032] In some embodiments, control system 166 can control a set of flow controllers (e.g., flow controllers 168a, 168b) to allow or prevent parallel flow (i.e., at substantially the same time, such as within 0 to 5 seconds or 0 to 2 seconds of each other). In some embodiments, control system 166 can provide a delay between actuating the flow controllers. For example, control system 166 can direct flow controller 168c, which is in communication with downstream fluid passage 110, to open before directing flow controller 168b, which is in communication with upstream fluid passage 108, to open, or can direct flow controller 168d to open before directing flow controller 168a to open (depending on whether control system 166 is executing a valve opening or valve closing instruction). Opening flow controllers 168c, 168d, which are in communication with downstream fluid passage 110, before flow controllers 168a, 168b, which are in communication with upstream fluid passage 108, can relieve pressure in actuation chamber 124 and prevent over-pressurization of high-pressure fluid from upstream fluid passage 108. However, generally speaking, each of flow controllers 168a - 168d can be independently controlled with various relative timings.

[0033] As briefly described above, dynamic seals generally include a seal between two bodies that have relative movement. Advantageously, embodiments of the present disclosure can provide valve actuation without including any dynamic seals that extend between valve body 102 and the atmosphere surrounding valve body 102. For example, as Figure 1 commonly shown, a threaded cap structure or other sealed volume fastener can be used to secure solenoid system 170 to valve body 102, eliminating the need for dynamic seals at flow controllers 168a - 168d, and no part of piston system 126 needs to extend outside of the entire enclosed system.

[0034] However, in some embodiments, the valve system 100 may include a rod seal or other internal seal 176. The internal seal 176 may generally be configured as a dynamic seal between portions of the piston system 126 that move relative to the valve body 102.

[0035] As shown, the internal seal 176 may provide fluid separation between the actuation chamber 124 and the valve outlet 106. In some embodiments, the internal seal 176 may include various seals or seal materials such as, for example, valve packing materials (e.g., dynamically loaded packing and secondary spring 178 such as one or more Belleville spring washers), elastomeric or metallic gaskets, diaphragms, graphite, and other mechanical seals. In the illustrated embodiment, if any process fluid does leak past the internal seal 176, the leaked fluid flows through the valve outlet 106 and thus simply appears as output material, causing little or no perturbation to the system and, notably, not being vented to the atmosphere.

[0036] In addition, the valve system 100 may optionally include one or more springs. For example, a biasing spring 180 may communicate with the actuator member 128 to bias the valve member 112 toward the normally closed position. That is, Figure 1 the biasing spring 180 is disposed between a first side 142 of the actuator member 128 and a surface of the valve body 102 within the actuation chamber 124. In use, if the control system 166 stops supplying (sufficient) actuation pressure to the actuation chamber 124, the biasing spring 180 may push the valve member 112 toward the closed position. Additionally, the biasing spring 180 may provide a starting orientation for the valve member 112 such that when the valve system 100 is first installed in a fluid flow system, the valve member 112 does not float without a set open or closed position.

[0037] Figures 2 to 6 Additional examples of valve systems in accordance with embodiments of the disclosed technology are illustrated. In general, where applicable, like reference numerals will be used to describe like components in the following examples of the valve system 100. For example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 the valve system 200 shown in, similar to the valve system 100, may include a valve body 202 having an inlet 204 and an outlet 206. The inlet 204 may at least partially define an upstream fluid passage 208, and the outlet 206 may at least partially define a downstream fluid passage 210.

[0038] It should be appreciated that unless otherwise stated, the general control and operating principles of the following examples are substantially similar to those described above with reference to Figure 1Those discussed. Additionally, the components, geometries, and orientations of one or more of the examples described herein may be adapted to be included additionally or alternatively in these or other valve systems, including with respect to a particular valve system orientation or configuration.

[0039] Continuing to refer Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the valve system 200 may include a valve member 212 and an actuator 214. Similar to the valve system 100, the actuator 214 of the valve system 200 may include an actuator chamber 224 and a piston system 226. The piston system 226 may include a piston plate or additional actuator member 228. The actuator member 228 may be mechanically coupled to the valve member 212 (or, in some embodiments, integrally formed with the valve member 212). The actuator member 228 may divide the actuator chamber 224 into a first chamber 234 and a second chamber 236.

[0040] As Figure 2 shown, the valve system 200 may include a set of ports 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 202 may include a first port 250a, a second port 250b, a third port 250c, and a fourth port 250d. The set of ports 250 may generally be configured as inlets to channels passing through the valve body 202. The first port 250a may be arranged to fluidly couple an upstream fluid channel 208 to the first chamber 234, the second port 250b may be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid channel 208 to the second chamber 236, the third port 250c may be arranged to fluidly couple the first chamber 234 to a downstream channel 210, and the fourth port 250d may be arranged to fluidly couple the second chamber 236 to the downstream channel 210.

[0041] The valve system 200 may also include a first actuation channel 254 and a second actuation channel 256 that connect the upstream fluid channel 208 and the downstream fluid channel 210 to the actuator chamber 224 via the set of ports 250. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation channel 254 and the second actuation channel 256 are formed within the valve body 202. The first actuation channel 254 and the second actuation channel 256 generally extend in an axial direction. That is, the valve body 202 may define an axial direction (i.e., the axial flow direction) between the valve inlet 204 and the valve outlet 206. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the valve member 212 and the actuator member 228 may move in the axial direction to open and close the valve 200. Figure 3 An exemplary flow path 260 through the valve body 202 is illustrated.

[0042] As described above, the valve member 212 can be used to selectively open and close the valve system 200 via the actuator 214. Thus, the actuator 214 can include a control system 266. The control system 266 can include a flow controller (e.g., the flow control member of the solenoid 270). Via the solenoid 270, the flow control member can allow or prevent fluid from flowing between the upstream fluid passage 208 and the actuator chamber 224 and between the actuator chamber 224 and the downstream fluid passage 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the solenoid 270 is disposed at the respective ports 250a - 250d of the set of ports 250.

[0043] Similar to Figure 1 the valve system 100, in use, the control system 266 of the valve system 200 can instruct the associated solenoids 270 at the first port 250a and the fourth port 250d to open. This allows pressurized fluid from the upstream fluid passage 208 to fill the first chamber 234 and allows the fluid within the second chamber 236 to be discharged into the downstream fluid passage 210, thereby moving the valve member 212 to the closed position. Similarly, in use, the control system 266 can instruct the associated solenoids 270 at the second port 250b and the third port 250c. This allows pressurized fluid from the upstream fluid passage 208 to fill the second chamber 236 and allows the fluid within the first chamber 234 to be discharged into the downstream fluid passage 210, thereby moving the valve member 212 to the open position.

[0044] Also similar to the valve system 100, the valve system 200 (and generally all valve systems described herein) does not include any dynamic seals between the valve body 202 and the atmosphere surrounding the valve body 202. However, the valve 200 can include an internal seal 276. The internal seal 276 can be configured as an annular seal around the piston cup 230 within which the valve member 212 slides axially. The internal seal 276 can provide fluid separation between the actuator chamber 224 and the valve outlet 206. Additionally, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 illustrated, the valve member 212 can include balance holes 232 to transmit pressure (e.g., low pressure or downstream pressure) between the second chamber 236 and the valve outlet 206.

[0045] The valve system 200 can optionally include one or more springs (or other biasing bodies). For example, a biasing spring 280 can be in mechanical communication with the actuator member 228 to bias the valve member 212 toward the normally closed position. That is, Figure 2 and Figure 3The biasing spring 280 is disposed between the actuator member 228 and the surface of the valve body 202 within the actuation chamber 224. In use, if the control system 166 does not supply sufficient actuation pressure to move the valve member 212 towards the closed position, the biasing spring 280 can push the valve member 212 to the closed position. In other embodiments, the biasing spring 280 can be positioned to bias the valve member 212 towards the normally open configuration (see, for example Figure 6 ).

[0046] Figures 4 to 6 Illustrates additional examples of valve systems in accordance with embodiments of the disclosed technology. As noted above, where applicable, like reference numerals will be used to describe the following examples of like components described in the valve system above. For example, Figures 4 to 6 The valve system 300 shown in may include a valve body 302 having an inlet 304 and an outlet 306. The inlet 304 may at least partially define an upstream fluid passage 308, and the outlet 306 may at least partially define a downstream fluid passage 310.

[0047] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Illustrates a valve system 300 having a biasing spring 380 arranged to bias the valve member 312 towards the normally closed position. In contrast, Figure 6 Illustrates a valve system 300 having a biasing spring 380 arranged to bias the valve member 312 towards the normally open position.

[0048] Referring to Figures 4 to 6 , the valve system 300 may include a valve member 312 and an actuator 314. Similar to the valve system described above, the actuator 314 of the valve system 300 may include an actuation chamber 324 and a piston system 326. The piston system 326 may include an actuator member 328 (e.g., a flange) of a piston head 330. The piston head 330 may include the valve member 312 at an end axially opposite to the actuator member 328. The annular flange of the actuator member 328 may divide the actuation chamber 324 into a first chamber (e.g., volume) 334 and a second chamber (e.g., volume) 336.

[0049] The piston system 326 may further include a piston cage 338. The piston head 330 may be slidably received within the piston cage 338 to open and close the valve 300. The piston cage 338 may include an opening 340 (e.g., an anti-cavitation opening). The opening 340 may generally be configured as a grid or array of openings extending circumferentially around the piston cage 338 and allowing fluid to flow therethrough when the valve member 312 is in the open position (e.g., Figure 4 the orientation shown in ).

[0050] The openings 340 can be used to reduce local pressure imbalances and / or provide noise reduction. In use, different openings 340 (e.g., variations in size, density, arrangement, orientation, etc.) can be employed based on the desired output effect (e.g., noise reduction, cavitation reduction, flow characteristics) or fluid characteristics (e.g., fluid medium, temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc.). In some embodiments, the openings 340 can be angled to increase flow efficiency (i.e., reduce flow losses) during axial flow operation. For example, the openings 340 can be angled relative to the flow axis, as opposed to being perpendicular to the flow axis.

[0051] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown in , the valve system 300 may include a set of ports 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 302 may include a first port 350a, a second port 350b, a third port 350c, and a fourth port 350d. The set of ports 350 may generally be configured as inlets to passageways through the valve body 302. The first port 350a may be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage 308 to the first chamber 334, the second port 350b may be arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage 308 to the second chamber 336, the third port 350c may be arranged to fluidly couple the first chamber 334 to the downstream passage 310, and the fourth port 350d may be arranged to fluidly couple the second chamber 336 to the downstream passage 310.

[0052] The valve system 300 may also include a first actuation channel 354 and a second actuation channel 356 that connect the upstream fluid channel 308 and the downstream fluid channel 310 to the actuation chamber 324 via the set of ports 350. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation channel 354 and the second actuation channel 356 are at least partially formed within the valve body 302. In addition, similar to the valve system 200, in Figures 4 to 6 In the illustrated embodiment of , each of the valve member 312 and the actuator member 328 can move in an axial direction (eg, an axial direction defined by a flow path between the inlet 304 and the outlet 306 ) to open and close the valve 300 . Figure 5 An alternative flow path 360 is shown through the valve body 202. The alternative flow path 360 may be Figure 4 The flow path of the valve system 300 is reversed.

[0053] The piston system 326 can be used to selectively open and close the valve system 300 via the control system 366. The control system 366 can include a flow controller (e.g., the flow control body of the solenoid 370). Via the solenoid 370, the flow control body can allow or prevent fluid from flowing between the upstream fluid passage 308 and the actuation chamber 324 and between the actuation chamber 324 and the downstream fluid passage 310.

[0054] Figures 4 to 6 The embodiment shown notably includes only the first solenoid 370 and the second solenoid 370. However, it should be appreciated that a flow control system similar to valve systems 100 and 200 (e.g., four solenoids) can be used in the valve system 300. Alternatively, additional solenoids can be used at the secondary ports to supplement the fluid flow between the actuation chamber and the upstream and downstream channels to increase the fluid flow into or out of the actuation chamber, thereby increasing the stroke speed of the valve member. The additional solenoids in communication with the logic controller can also provide improved modulation or control of the process loop by improving the feedback time and control of the valve system.

[0055] As Figures 4 to 6 shown, the solenoid 370 can be configured as a 3-way 2-position solenoid. Generally, this allows a single solenoid to direct fluid into either of the chambers 334, 336 and, similarly, a single solenoid to direct fluid out of either of the chambers 334, 336.

[0056] Each of the above valve systems can be used in systems that control various flow rates (e.g., within various different low and high flow rate ranges). Figures 1 to 6 The valve system configurations shown can be by way of example and can include other arrangements not necessarily shown in a single embodiment (e.g., substitutions or combinations of any number of components from two or more embodiments).

[0057] Figure 7Schematic illustration of a control system 400, which can be included in various valve systems, including those described herein or other valve systems. The control system 400 can be used in conjunction with a valve system 410 (which can include any of the valve systems 100, 200, 300 described above). The control system 400 can include a logic controller 420 configured to control one or more flow controllers 422 (e.g., solenoids) disposed within a valve body 412 of the valve system 410. The logic controller 420 can be configured to control valve operation (or otherwise direct flow) according to various known methods for automated equipment, including known types of electronic control devices (e.g., general or special-purpose computing devices). Generally, the logic controller 420 can communicate (e.g., wirelessly) with the flow controllers 422 and, where applicable, with one or more sensors 424 (e.g., a sensor system included within or external to the valve body 412).

[0058] Accordingly, the logic controller 420 can be used to control the operation of the valve system via the control of the flow controllers 422 (e.g., based on input from the sensors 424). For example, in use, the controller 420 can signal the first and fourth flow controllers in the flow controllers 422 to open to selectively direct fluid flow to move the valve system 410 to a closed position. Similarly, for example, the controller 420 can signal the second and third of the flow controllers 422 to open to selectively direct fluid flow to move the valve system 410 to an open position.

[0059] One or more sensors 424 can include a variety of sensors that can be integrated within the valve body 412 or positioned external to the valve body 412. The sensors 424 can provide a travel feedback signal to the controller 420 based on the position of the valve members of the valve system 410. In other examples, the sensors 424 can provide a magnetic feedback signal or a pressure feedback signal based on the position (e.g., relative position) of the valve members. Additionally, other examples of the sensors 424 can include sensors that evaluate flow characteristics (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate, volume, etc.), such as pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and flow sensors. Generally, one or more sensors 424 can be used to relay valve or fluid information to the logic controller 420 such that the logic controller 420 (e.g., automatically or in cooperation with an operator) can determine the current (or changing) state of the valve system 410 and can correspondingly instruct the flow controllers 422 to perform a valve opening or valve closing sequence.

[0060] Accordingly, examples of the disclosed technology may provide improvements to conventional valves and valve control systems. The foregoing description of the disclosed examples enables those skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed technology. Various modifications to these examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Accordingly, the disclosed technology is not intended to be limited to the examples shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0061] As used herein, unless otherwise restricted or defined, "integral" and its derivatives (e.g., "integrally") describe elements that are manufactured as a single piece without fasteners, adhesives, etc. to hold separate components together. For example, an element stamped, cast, or otherwise molded from a single piece of sheet metal or other continuous single-piece material (e.g., molded polymer) into a single-piece component is an integral (and integrally formed) element without rivets, screws, other fasteners, or adhesives to hold separately formed parts together. In contrast, an element formed from multiple parts that are initially separately formed and then subsequently fastened together is not an integral (or integrally formed) element.

[0062] As used herein, unless otherwise restricted or defined, "or" means a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can exist in any of various combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can only exist as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of "A, B, or C" represents the following options: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term "or" as used herein is intended to mean exclusive alternatives only when preceded by an exclusive term, such as "either", "one of", "only one of", or "exactly one of". For example, a list of "one of A, B, or C" represents the following options: A, rather than B and C; B, rather than A and C; and C, rather than A and B. A list of elements preceded by "one or more" (and its variants) and including "or" to separate the listed elements represents an option of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "one or more of A, B, or C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" represent the following options: one or more of A; one or more of B; one or more of C; one or more of A and one or more of B; one or more of B and one or more of C; one or more of A and one or more of C; and one or more of A, one or more of B, and one or more of C. Similarly, a list of elements preceded by "a plurality of" (and its variants) and including "or" to separate the listed elements represents an option of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "a plurality of A, B, or C" and "two or more of A, B, or C" represent the following options: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

[0063] In some embodiments, methods embodying aspects of the disclosed technology can be used to utilize, manufacture, install, etc., the devices or systems disclosed herein. Correspondingly, any description herein of a particular feature, capability, or intended purpose of a device or system is generally intended to include a disclosure of methods of using such a device for its intended purpose, methods of otherwise implementing such capabilities, methods of manufacturing such a device or system (or components thereof as an integrated device or system), and methods of installing the disclosed (or otherwise known) components to support such a purpose or capability. Similarly, unless otherwise indicated or restricted, any discussion herein of a method of manufacturing or using a particular device or system (including installing the device or system) is intended to inherently include a disclosure of the features utilized and capabilities implemented by such a device or system as embodiments of the disclosed technology.

[0064] In addition, as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used for convenience of reference to discuss a particular figure or example or to denote a spatial relationship relative to a particular other component or context, but are not intended to denote an absolute orientation. For example, references to downwards, forwards or other directions or to top, rear or other positions (or features) may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or figure, but do not necessarily require a similar orientation or geometry in all installations or configurations.

[0065] Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, "configured to" means that a component, system or module is particularly adapted to the associated function. Thus, for example, a ZZ configured to YY is specifically suited to YY, rather than merely being generally capable of doing so.

[0066] Although the presently disclosed technology has been described with reference to preferred examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in the form and detail of the disclosed examples without departing from the spirit and scope of the concepts discussed herein.

Claims

1. A valve system, the valve system comprising: A valve body having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet providing an entry to an upstream fluid passage of the valve body, and the outlet providing a discharge to a downstream fluid passage of the valve body; A valve member arranged to fluidly couple the upstream fluid passage and the downstream fluid passage when the valve member is in an open position and to fluidly disconnect the upstream fluid passage and the downstream fluid passage when the valve member is in a closed position; And An actuator, the actuator comprising: An actuator chamber; An actuator member movable within the actuator chamber to move the valve member between the open position and the closed position, the actuator member forming a first sub-chamber and a second sub-chamber within the actuator chamber; Ports arranged to permit flow from the upstream fluid passage to the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber and to permit flow from the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber to the downstream fluid passage; and A control system operable to selectively direct fluid flow from the upstream fluid passage through one or more of the ports to the actuator chamber and to direct fluid flow from the actuator chamber through one or more of the ports to the downstream fluid passage.

2. The valve system according to claim 1, wherein, The control system includes two or more flow controllers fixed to the valve body to control flow through the ports, and wherein the two or more flow controllers include: A first solenoid system selectively permitting flow from the upstream fluid passage through a first port of the ports; and A second solenoid system selectively permitting flow from a second port of the ports to the downstream fluid passage.

3. The valve system according to claim 2, wherein, There is no dynamic seal between the actuator and the atmosphere outside the valve body.

4. The valve system according to claim 2, wherein, The control system includes a sensor system arranged to provide a sensor signal based on flow characteristics; And wherein the control system selectively directs fluid flow to and from the actuator chamber based on the sensor signal.

5. The valve system according to claim 1, wherein, The ports include a plurality of first ports and a plurality of second ports, the plurality of first ports arranged to permit flow from the upstream fluid passage to the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber, and the plurality of second ports arranged to permit flow from the first sub-chamber and the second sub-chamber to the downstream fluid passage.

6. The valve system according to claim 5, wherein The ports include: A first port arranged to permit flow between the upstream fluid passage and the first sub-chamber of the actuator chamber; A second port arranged to permit flow between the upstream fluid passage and the second sub-chamber of the actuator chamber; A third port arranged to permit flow between the first sub - chamber of the actuation chamber and the downstream fluid passage; and A fourth port arranged to permit flow between the second sub - chamber of the actuation chamber and the downstream fluid passage, wherein when the first port and the fourth port are open and the second port and the third port are closed, the valve member is urged towards the closed position, and wherein when the second port and the third port are open and the first port and the fourth port are closed, the valve member is urged towards the open position.

7. The valve system according to claim 6, wherein the control system includes a first three - way flow controller and a second three - way flow controller, the first three - way flow controller selectively permitting flow to the first port and the second port, and the second three - way flow controller selectively permitting flow from the third port and the fourth port.

8. The valve system according to claim 1, wherein, The actuation chamber is axially aligned with the inlet and the outlet.

9. An actuator for a valve, the valve having a valve body and a valve member, the valve body defining a valve inlet and a valve outlet, the valve member being movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively permit or block flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet, the actuator comprising: An actuation chamber; A piston system including a piston that forms a first actuation volume and a second actuation volume within the actuation chamber and is movable relative to the actuation chamber to move the valve member between the open position and the closed position; and A control system for controlling the movement of the piston, the control system comprising: A first flow controller arranged to selectively permit fluid flow from the valve inlet to one or more of the first actuation volume and the second actuation volume within the actuation chamber, and A second flow controller arranged to selectively permit fluid flow from one or more of the first actuation volume and the second actuation volume within the actuation chamber to the valve outlet.

10. The actuator according to claim 9, wherein, The first flow controller and the second flow controller are configured as two - position three - way solenoids.

11. The actuator according to claim 9, wherein, The fluid flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet defines an axial direction, and wherein the piston is movable in the axial direction.

12. The actuator according to claim 11, wherein, The piston is configured as a piston plug received by a piston cage to form an annular piston, and wherein the piston cage is fixed relative to the valve body and the piston plug is axially movable relative to the piston cage.

13. The actuator according to claim 12, wherein, The piston cage includes a plurality of openings circumferentially arranged around the piston cage.

14. The actuator according to claim 9, wherein one or more of the following: When the first flow controller permits fluid flow from the valve inlet to the first actuation volume and the second flow controller permits fluid flow from the second actuation volume to the valve outlet, the valve member is urged toward the closed position, or when the first flow controller permits fluid flow from the valve inlet to the second actuation volume and the second flow controller permits fluid flow from the first actuation volume to the valve outlet, the valve member is urged toward the open position.

15. A method of controlling a valve with an actuator, the method comprising: Moving a valve member of the valve toward a closed position to block flow from a valve inlet to a valve outlet, including by controlling one or more flow controllers of the actuator to: Divert fluid from the valve inlet to a first actuation volume on a first side of a piston of an actuation chamber to increase pressure in the first actuation volume, the piston being connected to the valve member, and Divert fluid from a second actuation volume on a second side of the piston of the actuation chamber to the valve outlet to reduce pressure in the second actuation volume; and Moving the valve member toward an open position to permit flow from the valve inlet to the valve outlet, including by controlling the one or more flow controllers to: Divert fluid from the valve inlet to the second actuation volume of the actuation chamber to increase pressure in the second actuation volume, and Divert fluid from the first actuation volume of the actuation chamber to the valve outlet to reduce pressure in the first actuation volume.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The one or more flow controllers include one or more solenoid systems that are fixed to a valve body of the valve, and there is no dynamic seal between the actuator and the atmosphere outside the valve body.

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