Reinforced rotary valve seal assembly

Abstract

A rotary valve includes: a valve body including an opening formed therein; a rotating member received within the opening of the valve body, where the rotating member is configured to rotate relative to the valve body about a rotational axis of the rotating member; and the sealing assembly comprises a hard sealing structure and a soft sealing structure which are arranged between the valve body and the rotating part. The hard seal structure is formed of a substantially rigid material and is configured for sealing engagement with the rotating component. The hard seal structure includes support features that reinforce the soft seal structure. The soft seal structure is formed of an elastically deformable material and is configured to be in sealing engagement with the hard seal structure and the valve body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a sealing assembly for a rotary valve, and more specifically, to a reinforced sealing assembly comprising both a soft seal and a hard seal, the reinforced sealing assembly being used to ensure a relatively low frictional and fluid tight seal between the inner surface of the stationary valve body and the outer surface of the rotating component. Background Technology

[0002] A plug valve typically comprises a "plug" having a generally cylindrical or conical outer surface, received within a valve body having a corresponding cylindrical or conical inner surface. The plug typically includes at least one passage formed through it, wherein at least one end of each passage intersects the outer surface of the plug. Each passage is configured to communicate fluid through the plug with respect to any of a variety of different flow configurations. The valve body further typically includes one or more ports intersecting the inner surface of the valve body to communicate fluid between the ports of the valve body and any combination of the passages of the plug. The plug is operatively coupled to a rotary actuator configured to rotate the plug relative to a stationary valve body, thereby repositioning each passage in the passage relative to each of the stationary ports. Depending on the configuration of the plug and the valve body, this rotation of the plug relative to the valve body can switch which passage in the passage is positioned to communicate fluidly with the corresponding port, or can stop flow through at least one passage in the passage by aligning at least one passage in the passage with a portion of one of the unported ports on the inner surface of the valve body.

[0003] The rotation of the plug relative to the valve body necessitates the establishment of a proper fluid tightness seal between the outer surface of the plug and the inner surface of the valve body. This ensures that the corresponding fluid does not leak into any relatively small cylindrical or conical gap that may exist between the plug and the valve body, allowing the plug to rotate easily relative to the valve body. Traditionally, this seal is established by placing sealing elements around the periphery of each port on the inner surface of the valve body. Each sealing element is typically formed of a relatively soft and elastic material that can be compressed between the inner surface of the valve body and the outer surface of the plug to ensure a proper seal regardless of the plug's rotational position. For example, this material could be an elastomeric material.

[0004] However, sealing elements often become unstable at relatively high pressure differentials (e.g., greater than 50,000 Pa), which can lead to deformation of the sealing element. Any deformation of the sealing element can result in high internal leakage (i.e., port-to-port) and typically does not recover after the relatively high pressure differential has been relieved.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need in the art to produce a sealing assembly that can provide a desired level of sealing effect and improved performance by maintaining stability and avoiding deformation under various differential pressure conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] Based on and consistent with the subject matter described herein, a sealing assembly has been surprisingly discovered that can provide a desired level of sealing effect and improved performance by maintaining stability and avoiding deformation under various differential pressure conditions.

[0008] Technical solution

[0009] In one embodiment, a sealing assembly for a rotary valve is provided, the rotary valve having a rotating component configured to rotate relative to a valve body, the sealing assembly comprising: a first sealing structure configured to seal against the rotating component, the first sealing structure including an outwardly extending support feature, wherein the first sealing structure is formed of a substantially rigid material; and a second sealing structure configured to seal against the first sealing structure and the valve body, the second sealing structure being disposed adjacent to the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the second sealing structure is formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0010] In another embodiment, the rotary valve includes: a valve body including an opening formed therein; a rotating member received within the opening of the valve body, the rotating member configured to rotate relative to the valve body about a rotation axis of the rotating member; a first sealing structure configured to seal against the rotating member, the first sealing structure including an outwardly extending support feature, wherein the first sealing structure is formed of a substantially rigid material; and a second sealing structure configured to seal against the first sealing structure and the valve body, the second sealing structure being disposed adjacent to the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the second sealing structure is formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0011] As one aspect of some implementation methods, the basically rigid material is a thermoplastic material.

[0012] As one aspect of implementation, the thermoplastic material is either polyphthalamide or polyphenylene sulfide.

[0013] As one aspect of some implementation methods, the elastically deformable material is an elastomer material.

[0014] As one aspect of some implementation methods, the elastomer material is Thermoplastic elastomers, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, One of thermoplastic elastomers, EPDM foam, silicone rubber, nitrile or polyurethane.

[0015] As one aspect of some implementation methods, substantially rigid materials include a lower coefficient of friction than elastically deformable materials.

[0016] As one aspect of some implementations, the second sealing structure includes a notch formed in the second sealing structure, the notch being configured to receive the first sealing structure, wherein a portion of the first sealing structure configured to seal against the rotating component is disposed outside the notch.

[0017] As an aspect of some implementations, the second sealing structure includes at least two sealing lips configured to seal against the valve body, wherein each of the at least two sealing lips extends peripherally around a flow opening formed through the second sealing structure.

[0018] As part of some implementations, the outwardly extending support features extend through the flow opening formed by the second sealing structure.

[0019] As one aspect of some implementations, the second sealing structure is configured to seal against an inner circumferential surface of the valve body, the inner circumferential surface partially defining an opening in the valve body, and wherein the first sealing structure is configured to seal against an outer circumferential surface of the rotating component.

[0020] As one aspect of some implementations, the second sealing structure is configured to seal against the outer circumferential surface of the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure.

[0021] As one aspect of some implementations, the second sealing structure is configured to seal against the radially outer surface of the peripheral portion of the first sealing structure.

[0022] As an aspect of some implementations, the first sealing structure includes a first flow opening formed through the first sealing structure, and the second sealing structure includes a second flow opening formed through the second sealing structure, wherein the first flow opening and the second flow opening cooperate to provide fluid communication between a passage formed through the rotating component and a fluid port formed through the valve body.

[0023] As part of some implementations, the support features of the first sealing structure have a radial thickness of 1 mm or less and / or an axial thickness of 5 mm or less.

[0024] As one aspect of some implementations, the first sealing structure includes a tapered guide feature configured to assist in mounting the rotating component into an opening in the valve body.

[0025] As one aspect of some implementations, the first sealing structure includes a retaining feature formed opposite to the guiding feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the retaining feature is configured to be received within a retaining notch formed in the valve body.

[0026] As one aspect of some implementations, a second sealing structure is compressed between a first sealing structure and a valve body, wherein the second sealing structure applies a spring force to the first sealing structure in the direction toward the rotating component. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and not for all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 1 This is an exploded perspective view of a rotary valve utilizing multiple sealing components based on existing technology;

[0029] Figure 2 It is cut by a plane parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating component of the rotary valve. Figure 1 An exploded cross-sectional front view of a rotary valve;

[0030] Figure 3 It is when fully assembled along with Figure 2 A front view of the cross-section of a rotary valve taken from the same plane;

[0031] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 An enlarged partial cross-sectional front view of the surrounding portion;

[0032] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of one of the sealing components in the sealing assembly;

[0033] Figure 6 It is shown as fully assembled. Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the sealing assembly;

[0034] Figure 7 This is a front perspective view of a sealing assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the sealing assembly includes a first or hard sealing structure and a second or soft sealing structure.

[0035] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Rear-view perspective view of the sealing assembly;

[0036] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 A front perspective perspective view of the hard seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0037] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 and Figure 8 Rear-view perspective view of the hard seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0038] Figure 11 It is cut through the first plane passing through the opposite sides of the hard-seal structure. Figure 7 and Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the hard seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0039] Figure 12 By arranging it perpendicular to Figure 11 The intercepted by the second plane of the first plane Figure 7 and Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the hard seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0040] Figure 13 It is cut through the first plane passing through the opposite side of the soft-seal structure. Figure 7 and Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the soft-seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0041] Figure 14 By arranging it perpendicular to Figure 13 The intercepted by the second plane of the first plane Figure 7 and Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the soft-seal structure of the sealing assembly;

[0042] Figure 15 It is a cross-sectional view of the rotary valve according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, taken along a plane parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating component of the rotary valve.

[0043] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the square portion;

[0044] Figure 17 It is a section taken along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating component. Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the rotary valve;

[0045] Figure 18 yes Figure 13 An enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the square portion;

[0046] Figure 19 This is a front view of the first or hard seal structure of a sealing assembly according to another embodiment of this disclosure; and

[0047] Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 The section line AA intercepts Figure 19 Cross-sectional view of the hard-seal structure. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The following technical description of the nature of the subject matter, manufacture, and use of one or more of the present disclosures is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or use of any particular disclosure claimed in this application or in other applications filed under the priority of this application or a patent granted under this application. Regarding the disclosed methods, the order of the presented steps is essentially exemplary, and therefore the order of steps may differ in various embodiments. As used herein, “a” and “an” indicate the presence of “at least one” item; where possible, multiple such items may be present. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description should be understood to be modified by the word “about” when describing the broadest scope of the technology, and all geometric and spatial descriptive terms should be understood to be modified by the word “substantially.” When applied to numerical values, “about” indicates some slight imprecision in the calculation or measurement of a permissible value (wherein, to a certain extent approximates the exact value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; approximate). If for some reason the imprecision provided by “about” and / or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in this art in such a general sense, then “about” and / or “substantially” as used herein at least indicate the variation that may be caused by common methods of measuring or using such parameters.

[0049] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, all documents referenced in this detailed description—including patents, patent applications, and scientific literature—are incorporated herein by reference. In the event of any conflict or ambiguity between the incorporated documents and this detailed description, this detailed description shall prevail.

[0050] Although the open-ended term "comprising" is used herein as a non-limiting term, such as including, containing, or having, to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, alternatively, more restrictive terms, such as "consisting of" or "substantially consisting of," may be used to describe embodiments. Therefore, for any given embodiment describing materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments constituting or substantially constituting such materials, components, or process steps, but excludes additional materials, components, or processes (for those constituting such materials, components, or process steps) and excludes additional materials, components, or processes (for those substantially constituting such materials, components, or process steps) that significantly affect the characteristics of the embodiment, even if such additional materials, components, or process steps are not explicitly described in this application. For example, a description of the composition or process of elements A, B, and C specifically contemplates embodiments constituting and substantially constituting A, B, and C, but excluding element D, which may be described in the art, even if element D is not explicitly described herein as excluded.

[0051] As mentioned herein, unless otherwise stated, all percentages of composition are by weight of the total composition. Unless otherwise stated, the disclosure of a range includes endpoints and encompasses all distinct values ​​and further subdivisions within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” includes both A and B. The disclosure of values ​​and ranges of values ​​for a particular parameter (e.g., quantity, weight percentage, etc.) does not exclude other values ​​and ranges of values ​​available herein. It is contemplated that two or more specific exemplary values ​​for a given parameter may define endpoints within a range of values ​​that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if parameter X is exemplified herein as having a value A and also exemplified herein as having a value Z, it is contemplated that parameter X may have a range of values ​​from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is contemplated that the disclosure of two or more ranges of values ​​for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping, or distinct) includes all possible combinations of ranges of values ​​that may be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed range. For example, if the parameter X is exemplified in this document as having a value in the range of 1 to 10, or 2 to 9, or 3 to 8, it is also conceivable that the parameter X could have other ranges of values, including 1 to 9, 1 to 8, 1 to 3, 1 to 2, 2 to 10, 2 to 8, 2 to 3, 3 to 10, 3 to 9, etc.

[0052] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” or “attached to” another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, joined to, connected to, or attached to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” or “directly attached to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0053] Although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another region, layer, or segment. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply any order or sequence. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or segment without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0054] Spatial relative terms such as “inner,” “outer,” “below,” “below,” “down,” “above,” “up,” etc., may be used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship between one element or feature illustrated in the accompanying drawings and another element or feature. Spatial relative terms may be intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation, other than those depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is flipped, an element described as “below” or “below” other elements or features will then be oriented “above” other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein are interpreted accordingly.

[0055] Figures 1 to 6A rotary valve 10 utilizing at least one sealing component 20, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 11,280,414, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The illustrated rotary valve 10 may, as desired, be alternatively referred to as a “plug valve.” The rotary valve 10 shown and described herein can also be used in any number of different applications and for selectively delivering any kind of different fluid through the rotary valve. The currently disclosed rotary valve 10 can be used in automotive applications, such as those involving the control of various fluids associated with the operation of hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, or heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of the associated vehicle. The fluids suitable for use with the rotary valve 10 may, as desired, be air, any hydraulic fluid, any type of fuel, any refrigerant, or any coolant typically used with these vehicle systems. However, it should also be readily understood that the rotary valve 10 can be adapted for use with any fluid associated with any fluid delivery system without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0056] Figures 1 to 6 The disclosed rotary valve 10 generally includes a rotating component 50 (plug), a valve body 60, and at least one sealing assembly 20 for providing a tight fluid seal between the rotating component 50 and the valve body 60. The disclosed rotary valve 10 includes a generally cylindrical rotating component 50 and a generally cylindrical valve body 60. The rotating component 50 is configured to rotate relative to the valve body 60 about a rotation axis of the rotating component 50. The rotation axis of the rotating component 50 extends through the center of the rotating component 50 and defines the axial direction of the rotating component 50. The rotation axis of the rotating component 50 also coincides with the central axis of the valve body 60 and, more generally, the rotary valve 10; therefore, the axial direction of any of the rotary valve 10, rotating component 50, or valve body 60 referred to below means a direction arranged parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating component 50. Additionally, the radial direction of any of the rotary valve 10, rotating component 50, or valve body 60 can refer to any direction passing through and arranged perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating component 50.

[0057] Figures 1 to 4The rotating component 50 illustrated includes an outer circumferential surface 52 having a cylindrical shape. At least one passage 54 is formed through the rotating component, wherein at least one end 55 of at least one passage 54 intersects the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating component 50. Depending on the flow configuration of the rotary valve 10, each end 55 of each passage 54 may represent an inlet or outlet of the corresponding passage 54. In the provided embodiment, the rotating component 50 includes two passages 54, wherein each end 55 of opposite ends of each of the two passages 54 intersects the outer circumferential surface 52 at a position circumferentially spaced 90 degrees apart from each other. The rotating component 50 is shown to include a separator 53 that separates the two distinct passages 54 from each other, such that each end 55 is in fluid communication through the interior of the rotating component 50 with an adjacent end 55, while being fluidly separated from the remaining two ends 55 of the other passage 54. Those skilled in the art will understand that alternative configurations of passage 54 can be used, provided that at least one end of one of the ends 55 of passage 54 intersects the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating member 50 in a manner requiring a seal relative to the surrounding valve body 60. Alternative configurations of passage 54 may include branching from one end 55 into two or more separate ends 55 to establish at least one passage in passage 54 of a 1-2, 1-3, or 2-3 (etc.) flow configuration of the rotating member 50. Furthermore, in some configurations, one end 55 of at least one passage of passage 54 may intersect the outer circumferential surface 52, while at least one end of the fluid-connected end 55 intersects the axial end surface of the rotating member 50, so that fluid flows from the radial direction of the rotating member 50 to the axial direction of the rotating member 50 while turning 90 degrees. Such a configuration is referenced... Figure 15 and Figure 17 The illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure are shown below, and are described in more detail below.

[0058] exist Figures 1 to 4In the illustrated embodiment, each end of each passage in the passage 54, when viewed from the center of each end of the terminal 55 relative to the corresponding radial direction of the rotating member 50, comprises a generally circular profile shape. Additionally, when viewed from the tangential direction of the rotating member 50, each end of the terminal 55 may comprise a generally arcuate or hyperbolic profile shape, the tangential direction of which is arranged perpendicular to its corresponding radial direction. When viewed from the axial direction of the rotating member 50, each end of the terminal 55 also comprises an arcuate profile shape. The arcuate and arcuate shapes are presented due to the manner in which each end of the terminal 55 extends around the cylindrical shape of the outer circumferential surface 52. However, each end of each passage in the passage 54 may comprise any profile shape viewed from the radial and tangential directions while remaining within the scope of this disclosure. For example, as an alternative and non-limiting example, one end of the terminal 55 may alternatively comprise a square radial profile shape and a corresponding rectangular tangential profile shape. As explained below, the configuration of each sealing assembly 20 for providing a tight fluid seal around each end of each end of each passage 55 in each passage 54 can be adapted to the corresponding peripheral shape so as to completely surround each end of the end 55 to prevent leakage of the corresponding fluid in any given direction around the periphery of each end of the end 55 in each passage 54.

[0059] The rotating component 50 is operatively coupled to a rotary motor or actuator (not shown) configured to provide the torque required to rotate the rotating component 50 about its axis of rotation relative to the stationary valve body 60. As a non-limiting example, the rotary motor or actuator may be a torque motor, a servo motor, an electric stepper motor, or a brushless DC motor. Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, any rotary motor or actuator with the required torque and accuracy for establishing the desired rotational position of the rotating component 50 relative to the valve body 60 may be selected. Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the rotating component 50 may include an axially extending rod 56 disposed along its axis of rotation for operatively engaging a corresponding rotary motor of the actuator.

[0060] A valve body 60 extends axially from its first end 61 to its second end 62. The first end 61 of the valve body 60 is configured to receive a cap 63 after the valve body 60 has axially received therein the rotating member 50 and each of the corresponding sealing assemblies 20, as explained in more detail below. The cap 63 includes an opening 64 centrally located on the axis of rotation of the rotating member 50, wherein the opening 64 is configured to receive the rod 56 of the rotating member 50 through the opening 64. An O-ring 65 is disposed between the first end 61 of the valve body 60 and the inner axial surface of the cap 63 to form a fluid-tight seal between the first end 61 of the valve body 60 and the cap 63. Another pair of O-rings 66 are received between the inner circumferential surface of the cap 63 defining its opening 64 and the outer circumferential surface of the rod 56 of the rotating member 50 to similarly form a fluid-tight seal between the cap 63 and the rod 56 of the rotating member 50, including forming a fluid-tight seal during rotation of the rotating member 50 relative to the valve body 60.

[0061] The valve body 60 includes at least one fluid port 82 for communicating fluid to the rotating component 50, wherein each fluid port 82 forms a hollow passage through the valve body 60 through which corresponding fluid can be delivered toward or away from the rotating component 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve body 60 includes four fluid ports 82 equidistant from each other in the circumferential direction of the valve body 60, such that each fluid port 82 is radially pointed toward or away from the axis of rotation of the rotating component 50 in a direction 90 degrees circumferentially spaced from each adjacent fluid port 82. When the rotating component 50 rotates to a desired operating position, the 90-degree circumferential displacement between adjacent fluid ports 82 allows each fluid port 82 to be positioned corresponding to each end 55 of each passage in the passage 54 formed through the rotating component 50. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the valve body 60 may include as few as one radially extending fluid port 82 or any number of circumferentially spaced fluid ports 82 while remaining within the scope of this disclosure, and particularly with Figures 1 to 4 Any variation of the configuration shown is consistent with the passage 54 formed through the corresponding rotating component 50.

[0062] The valve body 60 also includes an opening 67 formed therein, wherein the opening 67 extends relative to the axial direction from a first end 61 of the valve body 60 toward its second end 62. The opening 67 defines each of an axial end wall 68 and a circumferential wall 69 of the valve body 60. When the rotating member 50 is rotatably received within the valve body 60 along the axial direction of the rotary valve 10, the axial end wall 68 is configured to engage the axial end of the rotating member 50, and the circumferential wall 69 is configured to surround the rotating member 50.

[0063] The circumferential wall 69 of the valve body 60 includes an inner circumferential surface 70 defined by an opening 67 extending peripherally around the rotating member 50. The inner circumferential surface 70 includes a plurality of cylindrical segments 71 and a plurality of recesses 72 positioned between adjacent cylindrical segments 71. When viewed from the axial direction of the valve body 60, each cylindrical segment 71 may include the shape of an arc having a radius of curvature substantially the same as the circular profile shape of the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating member 50. Therefore, regardless of the instantaneous rotational position of the rotating member 50 relative to the valve body 60, the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating member 50 substantially corresponds to the shape of each cylindrical segment 71.

[0064] Each recess in the recess 72 is recessed into the circumferential wall 69 in a radially outward direction relative to each adjacent cylindrical segment 71 of the rotary valve 10. Each recess in the recess 72 is shaped to receive one of the sealing components 20 therein, and thus each recess in the recess 72 corresponds to the location of one of the circumferentially spaced fluid ports 82 of the valve body 60 that needs to be sealed via one of the sealing components 20.

[0065] In the provided embodiment, each recess 72 includes a radial end surface 73 arranged in a tangential direction parallel to the radial alignment portion of the rotating member 50. Figures 1 to 4 The radial end surface 73 of each recess 72 illustrated herein is substantially planar in configuration, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the radial end surface 73 may have any shape, including a cylindrical shape having a radius of curvature larger than that of the adjacent cylindrical segment 71, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0066] The radial end surface 73 of each recess 72 intersects with the radial innermost end 83 of a corresponding fluid port in the fluid port 82. For example, it can be... Figures 1 to 3As seen in the diagram, the radially innermost end portion 83 of each fluid port in fluid port 82 may include dimensions and profiles substantially corresponding to the dimensions and profiles of each end portion 55 of the passage 54 intersecting the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating member 50. Similar dimensions and shapes of the radially innermost end portion 83 of each fluid port in fluid port 82 and the corresponding radially outermost end portion 55 of each passage in passage 54 can be selected to prevent significant pressure variations in the fluid communicated through the rotary valve 10 that may occur in the event of significant changes in orientation or flow area between them. In this embodiment, the radially innermost end portion 83 of each fluid port in fluid port 82 includes a circular profile shape to match the circular profile shape of each end portion 55 of the passage 54 intersecting the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating member 50.

[0067] Each recess 72 further includes a pair of opposing lateral surfaces 75, which are arranged perpendicular to the corresponding radial end surface 73 and extend in the axial direction of the valve body 60. The innermost radial end of each lateral surface 75 includes a retaining shoulder 76 adjacent to one of the adjacent cylindrical segments 71, wherein each retaining shoulder 76 extends in the axial direction of the valve body 60. The retaining shoulder 76 of each recess 72 is configured to help maintain the radial and circumferential position of a corresponding sealing assembly 20 when the sealing assembly 20 is received within the corresponding recess 72.

[0068] Each recess 72 further includes an axial end surface 77, which is arranged perpendicular to and connected to the corresponding radial end surface 73 and to the corresponding lateral surface 75. In the provided embodiment, each radial end surface 73 includes a semi-cylindrical shape having a radius of curvature larger than that of the radially innermost end 83 of the corresponding fluid port 72, to space the axial end surface 77 from the corresponding end 83.

[0069] like Figures 2 to 4 As best shown, each of the axial end surfaces 77 includes a retention notch 78 formed therein. Each retention notch 78 is axially recessed relative to the peripheral portion of the corresponding axial end surface 77 toward the second end 62 of the valve body 60, while being spaced apart from the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating component 50 at a radially outward location. Each retention notch 78 defines a retention lip 79 disposed immediately adjacent to the outer circumferential surface 52 of the rotating component 50. Each retention lip 79 is configured to retain a portion of the corresponding sealing assembly 20 during assembly of the rotary valve 10, as described in more detail below.

[0070] Now refer to Figures 7 to 18 The document shows and describes a sealing assembly 120 for use in a rotary valve 110 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. (See also...) Figure 15 and Figure 17 As best observed, the rotary valve 110 again generally includes a rotating component 150, a valve body 160, and a plurality of sealing assemblies 120 for providing a tight fluid seal between the rotating component 150 and the valve body 160 at circumferentially spaced locations around the rotating component 150. Figure 15 and Figure 17 It can be clearly seen that the rotary valve 110 may include... Figures 1 to 4 The rotary valve 110 has a fundamentally different flow configuration. Specifically, the valve body 160 of the rotary valve 110 includes a circumferential wall 169 having only two radially extending fluid ports 182 relative to the rotary valve 110, instead of four radially extending fluid ports 82. Each of the radially extending fluid ports 182 includes a radially innermost end that intersects with the inner circumferential surface of the circumferential wall 169. The inner circumferential surface is divided into a plurality of cylindrical segments 171 and a plurality of recesses 172, the recesses 172 being positioned between adjacent cylindrical segments 171. Each recess 172 differs from the recesses 72 of the valve body 10 in that the radially end surface 173 of each recess 172 has a cylindrical curvature and shape, wherein the radius of curvature of the recess 172 is measured from the axis of rotation of the rotary valve 110. Each recess in recess 172 also includes a pair of opposing lateral surfaces 175 arranged in the corresponding radial direction of the rotary valve 110. Each of the radial end surfaces 173 and lateral surfaces 175 of each recess in recess 172 is arranged to extend in the axial direction of the rotary valve 110. The axial end surface 177 of each recess in recess 172 is arranged perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotary valve 110, rather than including a semi-cylindrical shape as disclosed relative to the axial end surface 77 present in the rotary valve 10. The axial end surface 177 of each recess in recess 172 may also include a retaining notch 178 formed therein and extending in the axial direction into the valve body 160.

[0071] The end wall 168 of the valve body 160 may include an axially extending fluid port 186 arranged along the central axis of the rotary valve 110 defined by the axis of rotation of the rotating member 150. The rotating member 150 may include a single passage 154 formed therethrough, wherein one end of the passage 154 at one end 155 intersects with the outer circumferential wall 152 of the rotating member 150, and the opposite end 157 of the passage 154 terminates at an axial end 158 of the rotating member 150 aligned with the axially extending fluid port 186. The rotary valve 110 is accordingly configured to allow a 90-degree deflection of fluid through it, wherein the rotating member 150 is switchable between two different radially extending fluid ports 182 that are in fluid communication with the axially extending fluid port 186. The rotating member 150 is again operatively coupled to a suitable rotary motor or actuator (not shown) capable of rotating the rotating member 150 between two different rotational positions.

[0072] Reference Figures 7 to 8 A sealing assembly 120 suitable for use with a rotary valve 110 is disclosed separately. The sealing assembly 120 includes a first sealing structure 121 and a second sealing structure 122. The first sealing structure 121 may be alternatively referred to as a “hard” sealing structure 121, and the second sealing structure 122 may be alternatively referred to as a “soft” sealing structure 122, as needed. The hard sealing structure 121 is configured to directly engage the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotary component 150 when the rotary component 150 is rotated to any of its various predetermined positions to induce any of its predetermined flow configurations through the rotary valve 110, thereby providing a tight fluid seal between the hard sealing structure 121 and the outer circumferential surface 152.

[0073] The hard seal structure 121 is formed of a substantially rigid material, such as a relatively rigid and relatively hard thermoplastic material. More specifically, the selected material is preferably a semi-crystalline thermoplastic. If a thermoplastic material is used, it is preferably polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS). Since each of these materials has relatively strong chemical resistance, heat resistance, and resistance to permanent deformation or abrasion, either PPA or PPS can be preferably used. Furthermore, each of PPA and PPS can be provided as a thermoplastic resin capable of injection molding to form the aforementioned shape and configuration of the hard seal structure 121 using a relatively inexpensive manufacturing process, while maintaining desired tolerances to establish a desired sealing engagement with the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150. Other rigid thermoplastic materials, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), can be used to form the hard seal structure 121. However, PTFE cannot be manufactured using injection molding processes, thus requiring a more expensive and difficult manufacturing process to properly shape the hard seal structure 121 into the desired configuration to provide a tight fluid seal with the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150. Additional rigid materials—including various metals, ceramics, carbon graphite, and even glass—can also be used to form the hard seal structure 121, depending on the specific application requirements of the associated rotary valve 110.

[0074] In some embodiments, the rotating component 150, and particularly the portion of the rotating component 150 forming its outer peripheral surface 152, may be formed of the same material as described as suitable for forming the hard seal structure 121. For example, as a non-limiting example, the rotating component 150 may be formed of a rigid thermoplastic material, such as PPA or PPS. In some embodiments, the same material may be chosen to form both the rotating component 150 and the hard seal structure 121. However, any rigid material may be chosen to form the rotating component 150 without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0075] The hard seal structure 121 may require a limited degree of compliance to allow it to accommodate any surface irregularities or dimensional inconsistencies present in the rotating component 150, thereby ensuring the desired sealing effect regardless of the rotational position of the rotating component 150. The rigidity of the preferred thermoplastic material, such as PPA or PPS, may necessitate that the hard seal structure 121 be formed with a minimum cross-section having a circumference surrounding the peripheral portion 125 to ensure the desired degree of compliance and consistency. The peripheral portion 125 of the hard seal structure 121 may be configured to include a radial thickness of 3 mm or less and an axial thickness of 3 mm or less to ensure its desired degree of compliance and consistency. For example, the peripheral portion 125 may be configured to have a radial thickness of approximately 2 mm and an axial thickness of approximately 2 mm.

[0076] like Figures 9 to 12 As shown more clearly in the diagram, the peripheral portion 125 may include an inner circumferential surface 126, an opposite outer circumferential surface 127, a radially inner surface 128 configured to engage the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150, and a radially outer surface 129 opposite to the radially inner surface 128 and configured to engage the soft-seal structure 122. In some embodiments, the hard-seal structure 121 also includes a support feature 130. Figures 7 to 12 as well as Figures 15 to 18 As depicted, the support feature 130 may be integrally formed with the peripheral portion 125 or formed as a separate and distinct component. The support feature 130 may extend outward from the peripheral portion 125 away from the outer circumferential surface 127. The support feature 130 may include a radially outer circumferential surface 132, an outer circumferential surface 133, and an opposing inner circumferential surface 134. In some cases, the support feature 130 may extend axially outward from the peripheral portion 125. The support feature 130 of this disclosure is configured to reinforce and support the soft seal structure 122. Advantageously, the support feature 130 prevents the soft seal structure 122 from becoming unstable under relatively high pressure differentials (e.g., greater than 50,000 Pa), which could lead to deformation of the soft seal structure 122. Therefore, any deformation of the soft seal structure 122 that would result in high internal leakage (i.e., port-to-port) is prevented. Therefore, the support feature 130 of the hard seal structure 121 provides the desired level of sealing effect and improved performance by maintaining stability and avoiding deformation under various differential pressure conditions of the valve 110.

[0077] In some embodiments, the support feature 130 of the hard seal structure 121 may be configured to include a radial thickness of 1 mm or less and an axial thickness of 5 mm or less to ensure a desired level of sealing effect and reinforcement of the soft seal structure 122. For example, the support feature 122 may be configured to have a radial thickness in the range of about 0.7 mm to about 1 mm, preferably about 0.85 mm, and an axial thickness in the range of about 4 mm to about 5 mm, preferably in the range of about 4.6 mm to about 4.7 mm, and more preferably 4.65 mm. The support feature 130 may be formed of a rigid material substantially the same as or similar to the peripheral portion 125 and / or the hard seal structure 121.

[0078] The inner circumferential surfaces 126, 134 define flow openings 124 through the hard seal structure 121, which correspond in size and shape substantially to each radially extending fluid port 182 formed through the valve body 160 and to the radially extending end 155 of the passage 154 formed through the rotating member 150. The rotating member 150 defines the central axis of the hard seal structure 121 in a radial direction through the center of the flow openings 124; therefore, the axial direction of the hard seal structure 121 mentioned below refers to the direction parallel to the central axis of the hard seal structure 121. Furthermore, the radial direction of the hard seal structure 121 mentioned also refers to those directions that pass through the central axis of the hard seal structure 121 and are arranged perpendicular to the central axis.

[0079] The radial inner surface 128 is substantially similar to the radial inner surface 28 of the hard seal structure 21 and includes a curved cylindrical shape complementary to the cylindrical shape of the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150. The outer circumferential surface 127 extends in the axial direction of the hard seal structure 121 and is also substantially similar to the outer circumferential surface 27 of the hard seal structure 21. However, the inner circumferential surface 126 and the radial outer surface 129 of the hard seal structure 121 differ from the corresponding surfaces 26, 29 of the hard seal structure 21 because the radial thickness of the peripheral portion 125 decreases as the peripheral portion 125 extends radially outward along the rotary valve 110 in the same axial direction as the hard seal structure 121. More specifically, at least a portion of the inner circumferential surface 126 tapers toward the radial outer surface 129 such that the radial outer surface 129 includes a radial thickness that is reduced relative to the radial inner surface 128. Therefore, the radial outer surface 129 of the peripheral portion 125 includes a smaller surface area than the radial inner surface 128 of the peripheral portion 125.

[0080] The hard seal structure 121 includes a pair of laterally spaced guide features 131 and retaining features 135, which protrude from diametrically opposed sides of the peripheral portion 125 relative to the axial direction of the rotary valve 110. Except for being spaced apart and arranged as a pair, each of the guide features 131 is structurally and functionally similar to the guide feature 31 of the hard seal structure 21, therefore further description of the guide feature 131 is omitted. Similarly, the retaining feature 135 is structurally and functionally similar to the retaining feature 35 of the hard seal structure 21, therefore further description of the retaining feature 135 is also omitted.

[0081] The hard seal structure 121 also includes a pair of lateral frame members 190 extending from opposite lateral sides of the peripheral portion 125. Each frame member 190 includes a pair of connecting portions 191 that extend at least partially radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 127 of the peripheral portion 125 relative to the radial direction of the hard seal structure 121. Each pair of connecting portions 191 connects the peripheral portion 125 to a corresponding lateral wall 192 of one of the frame members 190. As described below, when the sealing assembly 120 is received within the valve body 160, each lateral wall of the lateral walls 192 protrudes away from the corresponding pair of connecting portions 191 in a direction corresponding to the radial direction of the rotary valve 110. Figure 10 As best seen in the diagram, each of the connection portions 191 also includes a connection protrusion 193 that extends from the connection portion 191 in either the axial direction of the hard seal structure 121 or the radially outward direction corresponding to the rotary valve 110 when the sealing assembly 120 is received within the valve body 160.

[0082] The soft seal structure 122 serves essentially the same purpose as the soft seal structure 22, but includes a different configuration from the valve body 60 and hard seal structure 21 described above to accommodate structural variations in the valve body 160 and hard seal structure 121. Where necessary, the soft seal structure 122 may include an improved double-sealing surface for engaging the circumferential wall 169.

[0083] The soft seal structure 122 has a shape substantially complementary to the shape of each recess in the recesses 172 formed in the valve body 160. In the illustrated embodiment, the soft seal structure 122 includes a pair of lateral surfaces 138, wherein each lateral surface 138 extends in both the axial and radial directions of the valve body 110 when the soft seal structure 122 is received within one of the recesses 172. The soft seal structure 122 includes a radially outer surface 140 having a generally cylindrical shape having a radius of curvature larger than that of the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150. The soft seal structure 122 also includes a substantially flat axial end surface 141 arranged perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotary valve 110 and configured to engage with the axial end surface 177 of a corresponding recess in the recesses 172.

[0084] The soft seal structure 122 includes a flow opening 144 defined by its inner circumferential surface 143, forming a cylindrical shape. As used below, the radial direction in which the rotary valve 110 extends through the center of the flow opening 144 also represents the central axis of the soft seal structure 122; therefore, the axial direction of the soft seal structure 122 refers to those directions arranged parallel to the described central axis of the soft seal structure 122. Thus, when viewed along the axial direction of the soft seal structure 122, the flow opening 144 has a circular profile shape. The flow opening 144 formed through the soft seal structure 122 is sized to receive the support feature 130 therein and ensures that the radially outer surface 129 of the peripheral portion 125 of the hard seal structure 121 abuts against the soft seal structure 122 when the sealing assembly 120 is positioned in its operating position. In some embodiments, the soft seal structure 122 may sit on the outer circumferential surface 133 of the support feature 130 and be configured to seal against the outer circumferential surface 133 of the support feature 130. Support feature 130 can prevent the soft seal structure 122 from deforming inward due to higher external pressure at at least one of the fluid ports 182, 186. In some cases, support feature 130 can reduce the surface area of ​​the soft seal structure 122 exposed to fluid pressure within the fluid ports 182, 186, thereby preventing deformation caused by pressure differential and maintaining the seal.

[0085] The radially inner surface 145 of the soft seal structure 122 includes a cylindrical shape having a radius of curvature slightly larger than that of the radially inner surface 128 of the hard seal structure 121. The radially inner surface 145 also includes an axial notch 146 formed therein, the axial notch 146 having a shape complementary to the profile shape of the hard seal structure 121 relative to its axial direction. The axial notch 146 includes a depth in the axial direction of the soft seal structure 122 that is less than the axial thickness of the hard seal structure 121, to allow the radially inner surface 128 of the hard seal structure 121 to be radially inwardly disposed from the remainder of the radially inner surface 145 of the soft seal structure 122, ensuring that the soft seal structure 122 does not engage with the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150 when the sealing assembly 120 is disposed in a corresponding recess in the recess 172 of the valve body 160. The retaining feature 135 extends axially relative to the valve body 110 to the outside of the axial notch 146 to ensure that the retaining feature 135 is received within the retaining notch 178 formed in the valve body 160 at the external location of the soft seal structure 122. The axial notch 146 forms a positioning feature of the soft seal structure 122 to prevent undesirable movement of the hard seal structure 121 relative to the soft seal structure 122.

[0086] As suggested by the given name, the hard seal structure 121 is formed of a material that is harder and more rigid than the material chosen for forming the soft seal structure 122. More specifically, the soft seal structure 122 is formed of a relatively soft material that is elastically deformable. As used herein, an elastically deformable material is a material that is capable of deforming in such a way that it attempts to return to its initial position after deformation, and particularly when the material is compressed in a given direction to reduce its size. The elasticity of the material chosen for the soft seal structure 122 should be such that the material applies a radially inward spring force to the hard seal structure 121 in response to compression of the soft seal structure 122 toward the circumferential wall 169 in a radially outward direction, wherein the radial force and the radial compression direction refer to the radial direction of the rotary valve 110. As a non-limiting example, the elastically deformable material may preferably be an elastomeric material, such as... Thermoplastic elastomers, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, Thermoplastic elastomers, EPDM foam, silicone rubber, nitrile, or polyurethane can be used. The elastomer material can be selected based on the type of fluid and the operating characteristics of the fluid delivered through the rotary valve 110, including desired chemical and heat resistance. In a preferred embodiment, the elastomer material can be selected as a low-hardness, Shore A-grade soft-seal rubber to provide a low spring force to displacement ratio relative to the soft-seal structure 122. The use of a low-hardness material also helps to address problems related to tolerance superposition in any given direction, including the radial direction of the rotary valve 110, because the low force to displacement ratio allows for larger and more manufacturable tolerances when forming each sealing assembly 120.

[0087] The rigid material forming the hard seal structure 121 can be selected to have a lower coefficient of friction than the elastic soft material selected for forming the soft seal structure 122. Therefore, compared to the case where the soft seal structure 122 is positioned to be in direct contact with the rotating component 150 during rotation, the rotation of the rotating component 150 via a corresponding rotary motor or actuator requires less torque to overcome the frictional force present between the radially inner surface 128 of the hard seal structure 121 and the outer peripheral surface 152 of the rotating component 150.

[0088] A plurality of connection openings 103 are formed in the radial inner surface 145 of the soft sealing structure 122 toward the radial outer surface 140 of the soft sealing structure 122. The connection openings 103 are located in... Figure 8The connection opening 103 is shown extending through the soft seal structure 122, but any depth of the connection opening 103 can be utilized without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Each connection opening in the connection opening 103 may extend into the soft seal structure 122 in either the axial direction or the corresponding radial direction of the rotary valve 110, as needed. When the hard seal structure 121 engages with the soft seal structure 122, each connection opening in the connection opening 103 is positioned and sized to receive a corresponding connection protrusion in the connection protrusion 193.

[0089] Because it includes a pair of sealing lips 111, 112 projecting from the soft seal structure 122 in the axial direction, the radially outer surface 140 of the soft seal structure 122 is substantially different from the corresponding radially outer surface 40 of the soft seal structure 22, wherein each of the sealing lips 111, 112 is configured to sealably engage with the radial end surface 173 of a corresponding recess in the recess 172. More specifically, the first sealing lip 111 is disposed immediately adjacent to the flow opening 144 through the soft seal structure 122, while the second sealing lip 112 is disposed radially outside the first sealing lip 111 relative to the radial direction of the soft seal structure 122. Each of the sealing lips 111, 112 may include a substantially arcuate tip for engaging the corresponding radial end surface 173, but other shapes may also be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Each of the sealing lips 111, 112 extends annularly around the flow opening 144 to form two radially spaced sealing surfaces around the flow opening 144, thereby providing additional and independently configured sealing surfaces to prevent leakage between the radially innermost end 183 of the corresponding fluid port 182 and the radially outer surface 140 of the soft seal structure 122. Each of the sealing lips 111, 112 comprises a circular profile when viewed from the axial direction of the soft seal structure 122; however, alternative shapes may be used if the corresponding flow opening 144 is configured to include a shape different from the shape shown and described.

[0090] The first sealing lip 111 includes an inner circumferential surface 113 and an opposite outer circumferential surface 114, while the second sealing lip 112 also includes an inner circumferential surface 115 and an opposite outer circumferential surface 116. The inner circumferential surface 113 of the first sealing lip 111 may coincide with the inner circumferential surface 143 of the soft seal structure 122, thereby defining a flow opening 144 through the soft seal structure 122, so the inner circumferential surface 113 may extend in the axial direction of the soft seal structure 122.

[0091] Now refer to Figure 16 Vector F1 is shown as extending between the outer circumferential surface 114 of the first sealing lip 111 and the inner circumferential surface 115 of the second sealing lip 112. Figure 18 Vector F2 is shown extending between the outer circumferential surface 114 of the first sealing lip 111 and the inner circumferential surface 115 of the second sealing lip 112, at a position approximately 90 degrees rotated apart from the position of vector F1 relative to the central axis of the soft seal structure 122. Each of vectors F1 and F2 is arranged to extend in a spaced radial direction of the rotary valve 110, extending from and perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating component 150. Due to the way the soft seal structure 122 is compressed between the outer circumferential surface 152 of the rotating component 150 and the radial end surface 173 of the corresponding recess 172 via the hard seal structure 121, each of vectors F1 and F2 represents the direction of the compressive force acting on the soft seal structure 122 at the indicated position, wherein each of vectors F1 and F2 is arranged perpendicular to the outer circumferential surface 152 and the radial end surface 173 at the position through which each of vectors F1 and F2 passes.

[0092] like Figure 16 As shown, the outer circumferential surface 114 of the first sealing lip 111 is inclined away from vector F1 at an angle of at least 1 degree, while the inner circumferential surface 115 of the second sealing lip 112 is inclined away from vector F1 at a relative angle of at least 1 degree. Similarly, although vector F2 is spaced apart from vector F1 and Figure 18 The given cross section and Figure 16 In a vertical arrangement of a given cross-section, the outer circumferential surface 114 of the first sealing lip 111 is inclined away from vector F2 at an angle of at least 1 degree, while the inner circumferential surface 115 of the second sealing lip 112 is inclined away from vector F2 at an angle of at least 1 degree relative to it. The inclination of the circumferential surfaces 114 and 115 away from each of vectors F1 and F2 advantageously prevents undesirable buckling of each of the sealing lips 111 and 112 toward each other during compression of the soft seal structure 122, which could interrupt the sealing effect provided by each of the sealing lips 111 and 112. Thus, two distinct and fluid-tight annular sealing surfaces are formed by the soft seal structure 122 around corresponding flow openings 144 formed therethrough.

[0093] Each sealing assembly in the sealing assembly 120 is assembled by placing a hard sealing structure 121 within an axial notch 146 formed in the radially inner surface 145 of the soft sealing structure 122. A connecting protrusion 193 of the hard sealing structure 121 is also received within a connecting opening 103 of the soft sealing structure 122, while a lateral wall 192 of each frame member in the frame members 190 extends around and engages the lateral surface 138 of the soft sealing structure 122. Various engagements between the hard sealing structure 121 and the soft sealing structure 122 maintain the position of the structures 121, 122 relative to each other. Each sealing assembly in the sealing assembly 120 can then be received within a recess 172 of the valve body 160 via insertion relative to the axial direction of the valve body 160. Unlike the first embodiment of this disclosure, the lateral wall 192 associated with the hard sealing structure 121 engages with the lateral surface 175 of the corresponding recess 172 instead of the soft sealing structure 122. The rotating component 150 is again axially received within the valve body 160, wherein the guiding feature 131 plays a similar role in progressively compressing each soft seal structure in the soft seal structure 122 to create the desired radial force between the rotating component 150, the hard seal structure 121, the soft seal structure 122 and the valve body 160.

[0094] Now refer to Figures 19 to 20 The present disclosure discloses a hard seal structure 221 of a sealing assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As can be clearly seen from the illustrations of this other embodiment, the hard seal structure 221 of the sealing assembly includes a structure common to one or the other of the previously described hard seal structures 21, 121, and therefore further description is largely omitted herein.

[0095] The hard seal structure 221 differs from the previously described hard seal structures 21, 121 primarily because it is used for valves with fluid ports having a stacked relationship. The hard seal structure 221 includes a pair of peripheral portions 225 and a corresponding pair of support features 230. The two peripheral portions 225 and the corresponding support features 230 are joined together by a web portion extending between them. Therefore, flow through multiple fluid ports can be simultaneously controlled by a sealing assembly including the hard seal structure 221. Furthermore, the sealing assembly including the hard seal structure 221 uses significantly less material than other conventional sealing assemblies, while also reducing the number of specific features that must be formed in the sealing structure 221 to meet the sealing requirements of the relevant rotary valve.

[0096] The novel features of the sealing assemblies disclosed herein can also be readily applied to any related rotary valve configuration other than those shown and described herein. For example, although the sealing assemblies shown and described herein are illustrated as being profiled for reception between a cylindrical rotating component (plug) and a valve body having a cylindrical inner surface, it should be understood that each of the sealing assemblies disclosed herein can be profiled for reception within an alternative shape, wherein the corresponding rotating component (plug) is rotated about a central axis relative to the inner surface of the corresponding valve body. For example, each of the sealing assemblies disclosed herein can be adapted for use with a conical rotating component and a conical inner surface of the corresponding valve body, or for use with a ball valve configuration including a spherical rotating component and a spherical inner surface of the corresponding valve body, as needed.

[0097] The provision of exemplary embodiments makes this disclosure thorough and will fully convey the scope to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of specific components, apparatus, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of this disclosure. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many different forms, and none should be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. In some exemplary embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications, and variations can be made to some embodiments, materials, compositions, and methods within the scope of this art, and substantially similar results can be obtained.

[0098] Based on the foregoing description, those skilled in the art can readily identify the basic features of this disclosure, and various changes and modifications can be made to this disclosure to adapt it to various uses and conditions without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A sealing assembly for a rotary valve, the rotary valve having a rotating component configured to rotate relative to a valve body, the sealing assembly comprising: A first sealing structure, configured to seal against the rotating component, includes an outwardly extending support feature, wherein the first sealing structure is formed of a substantially rigid material; and A second sealing structure is configured to seal against the first sealing structure and the valve body, the second sealing structure being positioned adjacent to the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the second sealing structure is formed of an elastically deformable material.

2. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The essentially rigid material is a thermoplastic material.

3. The sealing assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The thermoplastic material is either polyphthalamide or polyphenylene sulfide.

4. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The elastically deformable material is an elastomer material.

5. The sealing assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The elastomer material is Thermoplastic elastomers, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, One of thermoplastic elastomers, EPDM foam, silicone rubber, nitrile or polyurethane.

6. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The substantially rigid material has a lower coefficient of friction than the elastically deformable material.

7. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The second sealing structure includes a notch formed therein, the notch being configured to receive the first sealing structure, wherein a portion of the first sealing structure configured to seal against the rotating component is disposed outside the notch.

8. The sealing assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The second sealing structure includes at least two sealing lips configured to seal against the valve body, wherein each of the at least two sealing lips extends peripherally around a flow opening formed through the second sealing structure.

9. The sealing assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The outwardly extending support feature extends into the flow opening formed through the second sealing structure.

10. A rotary valve, comprising: A valve body, the valve body including an opening formed therein; A rotating component, received within the opening of the valve body, the rotating component being configured to rotate relative to the valve body about a rotation axis of the rotating component; A first sealing structure, configured to seal against the rotating component, includes an outwardly extending support feature, wherein the first sealing structure is formed of a substantially rigid material; and A second sealing structure is configured to seal against the first sealing structure and the valve body, the second sealing structure being positioned adjacent to the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the second sealing structure is formed of an elastically deformable material.

11. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The second sealing structure is configured to seal against the inner circumferential surface of the valve body, the inner circumferential surface partially defining the opening in the valve body, and wherein the first sealing structure is configured to seal against the outer circumferential surface of the rotating component.

12. The rotary valve of claim 10, wherein the second sealing structure is configured to seal against the outer circumferential surface of the outwardly extending support feature of the first sealing structure.

13. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The second sealing structure is configured to seal against the radial outer surface of the peripheral portion of the first sealing structure.

14. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The first sealing structure includes a first flow opening formed through the first sealing structure, and the second sealing structure includes a second flow opening formed through the second sealing structure, wherein the first flow opening and the second flow opening cooperate to provide fluid communication between a passage formed through the rotating component and a fluid port formed through the valve body.

15. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The substantially rigid material is a thermoplastic material, and the elastically deformable material is an elastomer material.

16. The rotary valve according to claim 15, wherein, The thermoplastic material is one of polyphthalamide or polyphenylene sulfide, and the elastomer material is... Thermoplastic elastomers, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, One of thermoplastic elastomers, EPDM foam, silicone rubber, nitrile or polyurethane.

17. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The support feature of the first sealing structure has a radial thickness of 1 mm or less and / or an axial thickness of 5 mm or less.

18. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The first sealing structure includes a tapered guide feature configured to assist in mounting the rotating component into the opening of the valve body.

19. The rotary valve according to claim 18, wherein, The first sealing structure includes a retaining feature formed opposite to the guiding feature of the first sealing structure, wherein the retaining feature is configured to be received within a retaining notch formed in the valve body.

20. The rotary valve according to claim 10, wherein, The second sealing structure is compressed between the first sealing structure and the valve body, wherein the second sealing structure applies a spring force to the first sealing structure in the direction toward the rotating component.

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