Valve assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a valve assembly. The valve assembly comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; an alignment tube having a hole; a valve seat disposed in the bore of the alignment tube; and a fluid passage leading from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet via the valve seat. The valve assembly also includes a movable plunger having a first end and a second end. The movable plunger is at least partially disposed within the bore of the alignment tube and has a sealing portion at the first end of the movable plunger. The plunger is movable between a first position and a second position to vary a flow restriction created by the valve seat and the sealing portion. The valve seat is supported by the bore of the alignment tube, and the plunger is supported by the alignment tube at a portion of the plunger distal from the first end of the plunger such that the alignment tube aligns the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a valve assembly, and more particularly to a valve assembly having an alignment tube. Background Technology

[0002] Fluid control valves are used in a wide variety of applications to control the flow of fluids. The controlled fluids may include gases, liquids, or combinations thereof. In some cases, the fluid may also include suspended particles. While fluid control valves vary considerably in their specific configurations for opening and closing fluid communication paths through the valve, one particular type of valve actuation is performed using a solenoid. In a solenoid-actuated valve, current flows through an electromagnetic coil, which is typically formed around a magnetic core. The coil typically comprises wire wound multiple times around a plastic spool, forming multiple so-called turns. The energized solenoid generates a magnetic field. The strength of the magnetic field is proportional to the number of turns and the current supplied to the wire. As is well known in the art, to increase the magnetic field provided by the solenoid, the number of turns can be increased and / or the current supplied to the wire can be increased. The magnetic field typically acts on a movable armature connected to a plunger configured to engage a valve seat surrounding an inlet and / or outlet through which fluid can pass, thereby altering the flow restriction created by the sealing portion of the valve seat and the plunger. Typically, valves also include a spring or other biasing member that generates a biasing force opposite to the magnetic field. Therefore, in the absence of a magnetic field generated by the solenoid, the valve components will move to either a normally open or normally closed position. In the open position, the plunger is positioned away from the valve seat, allowing fluid to pass through the inlet and / or outlet. In the closed position, the sealing portion of the plunger abuts the valve seat to close the inlet and / or outlet, thereby preventing fluid from passing through.

[0003] To assemble known valves into the required arrangement within appropriate tolerances, a high level of quality control is required. This process can be labor-intensive and expensive.

[0004] Therefore, the valve assembly needs to be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The inventors have recognized that existing valves with various components to be assembled can present challenges regarding reliable assembly to the required accuracy. They have also recognized that any misalignment between components of the valve assembly can impair valve performance—reliability, accuracy, and predictability.

[0006] The inventors have developed an improved assembly that allows for improved assembly processes and, additionally, improved alignment between the valve seat and the plunger. This may be particularly advantageous in valves where there is no conforming material at the sealing interface, but the improved alignment is also beneficial in other valves.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a valve assembly is provided, the valve assembly comprising: a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet; an alignment tube having an orifice; a valve seat disposed in the orifice of the alignment tube; a fluid passage extending from the fluid inlet through the valve seat to the fluid outlet; and a movable plunger having a first end and a second end, the plunger being at least partially disposed within the orifice of the alignment tube, the plunger having a sealing portion at the first end of the plunger and being movable between a first position and a second position to change the flow restriction created by the valve seat and the sealing portion; wherein the valve seat is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube, and the plunger is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube at a portion of the first end of the plunger remote from the plunger, such that the alignment tube aligns the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

[0008] This valve assembly offers the following advantages: it provides a configuration in which the plunger and valve seat can be reliably assembled and even reliably aligned. It also offers the advantages of simplicity and a small number of component parts, thus simplifying manufacturing and assembly. Furthermore, it achieves reliable and adjustable relative dimensions and alignment within the sealing area of ​​the valve assembly (i.e., the area of ​​the plunger relative to the valve seat).

[0009] The plunger may be supported by an orifice in the alignment tube at a portion spaced apart from a first end of the plunger. The plunger may be supported by a guide portion of the alignment tube at a portion of the plunger remote from or spaced apart from the first end. The plunger may include a root portion and a head portion. The root portion may be disposed within the guide portion of the alignment tube. The head portion of the plunger may be disposed within a chamber portion of the alignment tube. The root portion may have a lateral dimension, which may be a diameter. The head portion may have a lateral dimension, which may be a diameter. The lateral dimension or diameter of the head portion may be larger than the lateral dimension or diameter of the root portion. The plunger may be supported by the guide portion of the alignment tube at the root portion of the plunger. The plunger may not be supported by the alignment tube at the head portion of the plunger.

[0010] The alignment tube may have a guide portion for receiving and guiding the plunger. The alignment tube may have a chamber portion for receiving the valve seat. The majority of the plunger's longitudinal length may be received in the guide portion.

[0011] The guide portion may have an orifice diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the receiving portion of the plunger in at least a portion of the guide portion.

[0012] The alignment tube can be a thin-walled tube. The wall thickness of the guide portion and / or the chamber portion of the alignment tube may be less than one-quarter of the orifice of the alignment tube; preferably less than one-third of the orifice of the alignment tube; preferably less than one-tenth of the orifice of the alignment tube.

[0013] The plunger can be supported by an orifice in the alignment tube at least at its second end. This has the advantage of making efficient use of the space inside the valve.

[0014] The alignment tube may comprise metal and / or alloy. Compared to polymer valve components, this offers advantages in the following aspects: ease of manufacture, improved dimensional accuracy of the alignment tube, and enhanced mechanical properties.

[0015] Alignment tubes may have microstructures indicating that the material has been deeply drawn. This is due to the manufacturing process of the alignment tube. Methods for detecting microstructures indicating that the material has been deeply drawn are known to those skilled in the art of materials engineering. The term "deep drawing" is a known manufacturing method involving stretching a blank of material into a forming die.

[0016] The chamber portion can be tubular and configured to receive a valve seat, allowing assembly of the valve seat and alignment tube via linear translation relative to the alignment tube (and preferably into the alignment tube). This has the advantage of facilitating the assembly of valve components. The tubular configuration can be substantially symmetrical. This has the advantage of providing a valve assembly that is easy to manufacture and assemble. The guide portion can be tubular. The guide portion can be configured to slidably engage at least a portion of the plunger. This has the advantage of simplicity and a small number of component parts, thus making manufacturing and assembly easier.

[0017] The valve assembly can be configured such that a fluid passage passes between the first end and the second end of the plunger.

[0018] The chamber portion and / or guide portion of the alignment tube can be substantially cylindrical. This has the advantage of providing a valve assembly that is easy to manufacture and assemble.

[0019] The alignment tube may include a bridging portion. This bridging portion may be disposed between the chamber portion and the guide portion of the alignment tube. The chamber portion may have an internal lateral dimension that is not equal to the internal lateral dimension of the guide portion. The chamber portion may have an external lateral dimension that is not equal to the external lateral dimension of the guide portion. The internal lateral dimension of the chamber portion may be larger than the internal lateral dimension of the guide portion of the alignment tube, and / or the external lateral dimension of the chamber portion may be larger than the external lateral dimension of the guide portion of the alignment tube. The bridging portion may provide a transition area between the chamber portion and the guide portion. This has the advantage of providing a compact valve assembly in which space is used efficiently.

[0020] The plunger may extend at least partially from the guide portion into the chamber portion of the alignment tube.

[0021] The cavity may be disposed within the alignment tube, at least partially defined by a valve seat and a portion of the chamber portion of the alignment tube, and a portion of the plunger may extend from the guide portion, and / or a biasing device may be disposed within the cavity. The head portion of the plunger may extend from the guide portion.

[0022] The chamber portion of the alignment tube may extend radially outward at the end of the alignment tube to facilitate the assembly of the valve seat into the alignment tube.

[0023] The valve assembly may include a biasing device. The biasing device may be located between the plunger and the bridging portion of the alignment tube. The biasing device may be located in the chamber portion of the alignment tube. The biasing device may be located between the head portion of the plunger and the bridging portion of the alignment tube. The biasing device may be configured to bias the plunger. The biasing device may be configured to bias the plunger away from the guide portion and / or away from the bridging portion. This has the advantage of providing a valve assembly in which a default position in which the plunger can be configured is available. This has the advantage of providing a valve assembly in which flow restrictions created by the valve seat and sealing portion can be reliably controlled. This may also have the advantage of providing a valve assembly in which movement of the plunger in at least one direction is autonomously controlled by the biasing device. A cavity may be defined in the chamber portion of the alignment tube, and a biasing member may be disposed in the cavity. Biasing the bridging portion provides a valve assembly that can be configured efficiently.

[0024] The sealing portion can be configured to be at least partially received within the valve seat, and therefore can be curved, round, conical, tapered, and / or spherical. The sealing portion may include a substantially spherical or partially spherical component configured to seal the valve seat when the plunger is in a first position. Such a spherical or partially spherical component may include a ball. Such components offer the advantages of ease of manufacture and providing a reliable seal between the valve seat and the plunger. One such spherical component may be a ball, as used in ball bearings. The sealing portion may include a tapered portion. The sealing portion may be a single piece of material having the plunger body. This offers the advantages of providing a simple and robust component where the sealing portion is not easily separable from the plunger body. Alternatively, the sealing portion may be a separate part from the plunger body, attached to the plunger. This offers the advantages of providing a sealing portion and plunger that can be easily made from different materials. The sealing portion may be an integral part of the plunger.

[0025] The sealing portion and / or valve seat may comprise a solid, non-elastic material. The sealing portion may comprise a hard material with a Vickers hardness higher than that of the valve seat. The sealing portion and / or valve seat may comprise or consist of at least one of the following: ceramic; silicon carbide; boron carbide; cubic boron nitride; tungsten carbide; diamond; ruby; sapphire; martensitic material.

[0026] The sealing portion and / or valve seat may include an elastomeric material.

[0027] The plunger may have a first end and a second end, and the valve assembly may be configured such that a fluid passage passes between the first end and the second end of the plunger.

[0028] The chamber portion of the alignment tube may extend radially outward at the end of the alignment tube to facilitate the assembly of the valve seat into the alignment tube.

[0029] The alignment tube may include a laterally arranged orifice, and the valve assembly is configured to allow fluid passage through the laterally arranged orifice.

[0030] The valve assembly may include a fixed magnetic core located at the second end of the plunger. This fixed core may be configured to be received in the second end of the alignment tube.

[0031] The valve seat can be located near the first end of the alignment tube. The plunger can be located near the second end of the alignment tube and can move toward the first end of the alignment tube to close the fluid passage at the valve seat. This has the advantage of providing a compact valve assembly.

[0032] The valve assembly may include a support member configured to support a valve seat, the support member being at least partially received within the orifice of the alignment tube. The support member may be a separate part from the valve seat and may be securely attached to the valve seat.

[0033] The plunger may have at least one external groove to accommodate a fluid passage, such that a portion of the fluid passage lies between the alignment tube and the plunger. This has the advantage of providing a simple and compact valve assembly.

[0034] A guide feature may be provided on the plunger at the first end of the plunger and / or on the valve seat, the guide feature being configured to align the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

[0035] A valve assembly having a damping system may be provided. The valve assembly may include a damping system configured to dampen the movement of a plunger as the plunger moves from a first position to a second position, the damping system including at least one spring element disposed at a first end of the plunger.

[0036] The plunger itself may include a damping system. This damping system may include one or more spring elements. These spring elements may be configured to dampen movement of the plunger relative to the valve seat. Advantageously, the spring elements may be configured to dampen movement of the plunger relative to a sealing portion of the plunger. The spring elements may be components configured to elastically deform, such as springs. The spring elements may be leaf springs, disc springs, coil springs, or may take any other suitable shape. When more than one spring element is provided, all spring elements may be of the same type, such as leaf springs. A first leaf spring and a second leaf spring may be provided, and the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring may be identical to each other in shape, size, material composition, or manufacture.

[0037] The valve assembly may include a connection device configured to clamp onto a component of the valve assembly, the connection device including one or more conductive components. The one or more conductive components may be configured to provide a conductive path to the solenoid coil.

[0038] A sealing portion may be disposed on or supported by the spring element or each spring element. The sealing portion may spring back by means of the spring element. The spring element or each spring element may be configured to elastically deform when a load is applied to the sealing portion, which may be an axial load. Specifically, the spring element may be configured to elastically deform after the sealing portion contacts the valve seat. In fact, as the plunger and its sealing portion move toward the valve seat, the spring element is in a stationary state, i.e., an inelastically deformable state or an unstressed state. The spring element may be configured such that once the sealing portion contacts the valve seat, the continued movement of the plunger toward the valve seat causes the spring element to elastically deform. The spring element and / or the sealing portion may be configured such that the damping effect is caused by the sliding of the spring element against the sealing portion, which may be caused by the frictional contact between the spring element and the sealing portion when the spring element bends. Therefore, the spring element or each spring element may act as a damping system that prevents shocks and / or wear of components in the valve assembly. Similarly, the spring element may accommodate any misalignment between the sealing element and the valve seat. The damping effect can be caused by sliding between the spring element and the sealing part and / or between the spring element and a part of the plunger.

[0039] The sealing element can be disposed between multiple spring elements, with the sealing element located between the first leaf spring and the second leaf spring. This arrangement has the following advantages: ease of assembly, improved alignment of the sealing element, and improved damping effect due to the larger contact area between the leaf spring and the sealing element.

[0040] The one or more spring elements can be configured such that movement of the plunger causes sliding between the contact surface of the spring element or each spring element and the contact surface of the plunger or sealing portion. Advantageously, the spring element or each spring element is arranged such that the contact surface of the sealing portion or plunger with the one or more spring elements forms a non-zero angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the plunger, i.e., the contact surface between the one or more spring elements and the plunger or sealing portion is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the plunger. This has the advantage of improving the sliding between the spring element or each spring element and the plunger or sealing portion. When more than one spring element is provided, at least one spring element may be spaced apart from at least one other spring element. The one or more spring elements may be spaced apart, with the sealing portion disposed therebetween. As described above, the sealing portion may be at least partially curved, circular, conical, conical and / or spherical, such that the contact surface between the sealing portion and the spring element may be at least partially spherical or conical.

[0041] The combination of a damping system (particularly the one or more spring elements) with hard seals and / or hard seats offers the advantage of providing a high-precision valve assembly. This is particularly advantageous in miniature or low-fluid-volume applications or applications requiring high valve accuracy. Hard seals and / or seats can be manufactured with high precision and, due to their material composition, possess reliable and predictable characteristics over time with a low risk of change due to continued valve use. Valve assemblies with particularly improved in-service accuracy are achieved when hard material seals and / or seats are used in combination with damping systems that adapt to shocks and prevent wear.

[0042] A valve assembly, any sub-assembly of the valve assembly, or any component may include any feature or combination of features from any aspect or example described herein. Features such as the following are interchangeable between different aspects or examples: plunger shape, sealing portion shape or material, number of components included in the valve seat, valve seat shape or material, housing shape or material, relative dimensions or positions of components of the assembly, etc. For example, a damping system may be used with the first or second aspect of the invention, any variation of these aspects, or any other aspect or example. Any variation of the damping system (such as whether a spring is used, the number, shape, configuration, or position of the spring) may be used equivalently with the first or second aspect of the invention, any variation of these aspects, or any other aspect or example.

[0043] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling a valve assembly is provided, the method comprising:

[0044] An alignment tube with a hole is provided; a valve seat; and a plunger having a first end and a second end and a sealing portion at the first end of the plunger;

[0045] The plunger is at least partially inserted into the bore of the alignment tube;

[0046] Insert the valve seat into the hole of the alignment tube;

[0047] This allows the valve seat to be supported by the orifice of the alignment tube, and the plunger to be supported by the orifice of the alignment tube at a portion of the first end of the plunger away from the plunger, so that the alignment tube aligns the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

[0048] This method can be configured to assemble valve assemblies according to any of the examples described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Examples of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0050] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view through a first example of a valve assembly is shown;

[0051] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Exploded view of the valve assembly;

[0052] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view through a second example of the valve assembly is shown;

[0053] Figure 4 An enlarged cross-sectional view through a third example of the valve assembly is shown;

[0054] Figure 5 An isometric view of the plunger and guide of the third example is shown;

[0055] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view is shown through the plunger and guide in the third example; and

[0056] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a fourth example of a plunger and seat through a valve assembly is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The following detailed description and accompanying drawings provide examples of how the invention can be implemented. These examples should not be considered limiting examples, but rather as illustrations of how various features of the valves disclosed herein can be combined. Other alternative combinations will become apparent when reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0058] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Valve assembly 1 is shown. Ideally, in... Figure 1As can be seen, valve assembly 1 includes a fluid inlet 10, a fluid outlet 20, an alignment tube 30, a valve seat 40, a fluid passage 50, and a movable plunger 60.

[0059] Fluid inlet 10 and fluid outlet 20 are configured such that fluid can be received into fluid inlet 10 and fluid can be released from fluid outlet 20, and vice versa. Valve assembly 1 may have a first end 101 and a second end 102. Valve assembly may define an axis X, and the first end 101 and the second end 102 may intersect the axis X. Figure 1 As shown, the fluid inlet 10 may be arranged at the second end 102 of the valve assembly 1, and the fluid outlet 20 may be arranged at the first end 101 of the valve assembly 1. Figure 1 As shown, the first end 101 may be located at the end of the valve assembly 1 opposite to the second end 102. As those skilled in the art will understand, it is not necessary to arrange the fluid inlet 10 and fluid outlet 20 at opposite ends of the valve assembly. For example, both the fluid inlet 10 and fluid outlet 20 may be located at the first end 101 of the valve assembly 1. Both the fluid inlet 10 and fluid outlet 20 may be located on one side, i.e., below, of the plunger 60 of the valve assembly 1. As those skilled in the art will understand, the fluid inlet 10 and fluid outlet 20 may be interchangeable, such that the fluid inlet 10 operates as the fluid outlet 20 and the fluid outlet 20 operates as the fluid inlet 10. A side orifice 38 may be provided on one side of the alignment tube 30. An example of such a side orifice is shown in... Figure 1 Feature 38 is schematically indicated by a dashed line. The side opening may include a wall extending from the alignment tube 30, such as... Figure 1 As shown, it can also be configured as a hole in the alignment tube 30. This side orifice 38 can be provided between the valve seat 40 and the bridging portion 37 of the alignment tube 30. The side orifice 38 can be configured to allow fluid passage 50 to pass through it. The side orifice 38 can be used as either an inlet or an outlet.

[0060] Alternatively, a base orifice may be provided at the end of the alignment tube 30. The base orifice may be located between the alignment tube 30 and the valve seat 40, specifically between the alignment tube 30 and the support member 24. Alternatively, a base orifice 39 may be provided in the valve seat 40 or the support member 24, such as... Figure 1 As shown by the dashed line 39 in the figure.

[0061] Side orifice 38 and base orifice 39 can be used as alternatives to inlet 10. Side orifice 38 and base orifice 39 can be configured to operate as either inlet or outlet. In valve assemblies with side orifice 38 or base orifice 39 instead of inlet 10, the fluid passage is relatively short, which has the advantage of minimizing energy loss of the fluid passing through fluid passage 50.

[0062] Valve assembly 1 may include an inlet portion 13 and an outlet portion 23. Inlet portion 13 may define an inlet 10, and outlet portion 23 may define an outlet 20. Inlet portion 13 may include a retaining magnetic core 14. Retaining magnetic core 14 may be configured to be received at a second end 32 of alignment tube 30 (see...). Figure 2 The fixed core 14 may be the magnetic core of the solenoid actuator of the valve assembly. The fixed core 14 may include a magnetizable material. The valve assembly may include a support member 24. The support member 24 may be configured to support the valve seat 40. The support member 24 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the valve seat 40. The support member 24 may be at least partially received within the orifice 33 of the alignment tube 30. The outlet member 23 may include the support member 24.

[0063] Fluid passage 50 is configured to extend from fluid inlet 10 to fluid outlet 20 via a valve seat. Fluid passage 50 can be in an open, closed, or restricted state. In the open state, fluid passage 50 defines the passage through which fluid can pass. In the closed or restricted state, fluid passage 50 respectively prevents or restricts the flow of fluid through fluid passage 50. Specifically, in the closed state, fluid passage 50 prevents fluid from flowing from inlet 10 to outlet 20, and vice versa. In the restricted state, fluid passage 50 restricts the flow of fluid from inlet 10 to outlet 20, and vice versa. Restriction of fluid passage 50 can be caused by the proximity of the sealing portion 63 of plunger 60 to valve seat 40. Closure of fluid passage 50 can be caused by contact between the sealing portion 63 of plunger 60 and valve seat 40.

[0064] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the alignment tube 30 is configured to at least partially receive the valve seat 40 and at least partially receive the plunger 60. The alignment tube 30 has an orifice 33. The orifice 33 is configured to support the valve seat 40 and the plunger 60 such that the alignment tube 30 aligns the sealing portion of the plunger 60 with the valve seat 40.

[0065] Alignment tube 30 may have a first end 31 and a second end 32. Alignment tube 30 may be configured to receive plunger 60 such that plunger 60 is close to the second end 32 of alignment tube 30. Alignment tube 30 may be configured to receive valve seat 40 such that valve seat is close to the second end 32 of alignment tube 30. Specifically, orifice 33 may be configured to at least partially receive valve seat 40 and at least partially receive plunger 60. Orifice 33 may be configured to fully receive plunger 60. Orifice 33 may extend from the first end 31 of alignment tube 30 to the second end 32. Orifice 33 may be an opening or may include a closed portion. For example, orifice 33 may provide a first closed sub-orifice at the first end 31 of alignment tube 30 and a second closed sub-orifice at the second end 32. Orifice 33 may be substantially cylindrical. Orifice 33 may have a constant diameter or may have sections with different diameters.

[0066] The alignment tube 30 may have a chamber portion 35 and a guide portion 36. The chamber portion 35 and / or the guide portion 36 may be tubular. The chamber portion 35 may be configured to receive a valve seat 40 to allow assembly of the valve seat 40 and the alignment tube 30 by linear translation. This translation may be an axial translation of the valve seat along the longitudinal axis of the alignment tube into the alignment tube. The guide portion 36 may be configured to slidably engage at least a portion of the plunger 60. The chamber portion 35 and / or the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 30 may be substantially cylindrical.

[0067] The alignment tube 30 may have a bridging portion 37. The bridging portion 37 may be disposed between the chamber portion 35 and the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 30. The bridging portion 37 may connect the chamber portion 35 and the guide portion 36 such that the chamber portion 35 and the guide portion 36 are fixedly attached to each other via the bridging portion 37. The bridging portion 37 may be substantially annular; may extend radially outward from the guide portion 36; may extend radially between the chamber portion 35 and the guide portion 36, or radially between the respective circumferences of the chamber portion and the guide portion; may be substantially disc-shaped; and / or may be substantially washer-shaped.

[0068] The lateral dimension of the chamber portion 35 may not be equal to the lateral dimension of the guide portion 36. The bridging portion 37 may provide a transition area between the chamber portion 35 and the guide portion 36. The lateral dimension of the chamber portion 35 may be larger than the lateral dimension of the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 30. The chamber portion 35, the guide portion 36, and / or the bridging portion 37 may have substantially the same thickness. The alignment tube 30 may be a single piece of material, such as metal or alloy. Advantageously, the chamber portion 35, the bridging portion 37, and the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube are all integrally formed as a single component.

[0069] Valve seat 40 is configured to be disposed in orifice 33 of alignment tube 30. Valve seat 40 is configured to allow fluid to be transferred from fluid inlet 10 to fluid outlet 20 via valve seat 40. Specifically, fluid passage 50 is passable through valve seat 40. Fluid passage 50 is passable through the center of valve seat 40. Valve seat 40 may include orifice 43 through which fluid passage 50 is passable. Orifice 43 may have one or more of the following characteristics: substantially straight; substantially elongated; centrally located; and arranged such that valve seat is substantially symmetrical. Valve seat may include solid non-elastic material. Valve seat 40 may include hard material. Valve seat 40 may include one or more of the following: ceramic; silicon carbide; boron carbide; cubic boron nitride; tungsten carbide; diamond; ruby; sapphire; martensitic material. Valve seat 40 may include elastomeric material. Valve seat 40 may be configured to be sealed when plunger 60 is in a first position. Specifically, the valve seat 40 may be configured such that when the plunger 60 is in the first position, the fluid passage 50 through the valve seat 40 is sealed by the plunger 60. The valve seat 40 may be located near the first end of the alignment tube 30.

[0070] A movable plunger 60 is configured to be at least partially disposed within the orifice 33 of the alignment tube 30. The plunger 60 has a sealing portion 63. The plunger 60 may have a first end 61 and a second end 62. The sealing portion 63 may be disposed at the first end 61 of the plunger. The sealing portion 63 may include a ball, as preferably in… Figure 2 As can be seen in the image. The ball can be configured to seal the valve seat 40, i.e., close the fluid passage 50, when the plunger 60 is in the first position. The plunger 60 may include a lip. The lip may be disposed at the first end 61 of the plunger. The plunger 60 may define an orifice 64. The orifice 64 may be configured to define at least a portion of the fluid passage 50. The orifice 64 may be configured to extend from the second end 62 of the plunger 60 toward the first end 61 of the plunger 60. The orifice 64 may be substantially elongated. The orifice 64 may be substantially recessed.

[0071] In valve assembly 1, plunger 60 may be configured to move between a first position and a second position to alter the flow restriction created by valve seat 40 and sealing portion 63. Plunger 60 may be located near the second end 32 of alignment tube 30 and may be movable toward the first end 31 of alignment tube 30 to close fluid passage 50 at valve seat 40.

[0072] Valve assembly 1 may also include a housing. The housing may include a first housing part 71, a second housing part 72, and a third housing part 73. The first housing part 71 may be an inner housing part. The first housing part 71 may be an actuation device adapted to actuate the plunger 60 from a first position to a second position. The first housing part 71 may be magnetizable. The first housing part 71 may be a component of a solenoid. The first housing part 71 may be a coil configured to generate a magnetic field when current passes through it. The coil may be helical. The second housing part 72 may be an outer housing part. The third housing part 73 may be an inner housing part. The first housing part 71 or the third housing part 73 may form a magnetic circuit for actuating the valve in a solenoid. At least a portion of the inlet part 13 may form part of the magnetic circuit for actuating the valve in a solenoid. The first housing part 71 and the third housing part 73 may be disposed inside the outer second housing part 72. First housing part 71 and third housing part 73 may define an orifice configured to receive at least a portion of plunger 60 and at least a portion of alignment tube 30. Second housing part 72 may be configured to provide a housing for a valve. Second housing part 72 may be configured to protect at least a portion of valve assembly 1. Third housing part 73 may be configured as a support on which first housing part 71 may be supported. Third housing part may be configured to provide a surface against which bridging portion 37 of alignment tube 30 may be aligned.

[0073] Valve assembly 1 may also include a biasing device 82. Alignment tube 30 may define a cavity 80 configured to receive the biasing device 82. Specifically, a chamber portion 35 of alignment tube 30 may define the cavity 80. The biasing device 82 may be a spring, specifically a helical spring. The biasing device 82 may comprise metal or an alloy. The biasing device 82 may be configured to bias plunger 60 into a first position or a second position. The biasing device 82 may be located between plunger 60 and bridging portion 37 of alignment tube 30. The biasing device 82 may be configured to contact the lip of plunger 60. The biasing device 82 may be configured to bias the lip of plunger 60 away from bridging portion 37 of alignment tube 30.

[0074] Valve assembly 1 may include a connection device. The connection device may be configured to attach valve assembly 1 to another component, such as a solenoid coil.

[0075] The connecting device may include a connecting body 93. The connecting body 93 may include multiple hooks, such as... Figure 2 The two hooks are shown. The connecting body 93 can be configured to clamp onto the inlet component 13, optionally by means of a plurality of hooks.

[0076] The connecting device may include one or more pins 94. The one or more pins 94 may be conductive. The one or more pins 94 may be electrical pins 94. The one or more pins 94 may be configured to provide a conductive path to the solenoid coil. The one or more pins 94 may be securely attached to the connecting body 93, optionally by overmolding the connecting body 93 onto the pins 94.

[0077] The connection device may include one or more brazing features 95. The one or more brazing features 95 may include or be composed of brazing material. The one or more brazing features may be configured to attach pin 94 to a solenoid coil.

[0078] The connecting body 93, pin 94, and brazing feature 95 can be attached to each other and can be configured to attach valve assembly 1 (specifically, the second end 102 of the valve assembly) to a separate component, such as a solenoid coil. As those skilled in the art will understand, any suitable attachment device can be used.

[0079] In use, the valve assembly is configured such that the plunger 60 can be moved from a first position in which the fluid passage 50 is closed to an open position in which the fluid passage 50 is open. In the first position, the plunger 60 is held in place by a biasing device 82. When the actuation device is actuated, the plunger 60 can be moved (which may involve movement along the axis X) against the biasing force provided by the biasing device 82 to a second position. Actuation can be achieved by applying a potential difference to a solenoid coil, which can apply a magnetic biasing force to the plunger 60. The movement of the plunger 60 is controlled by the alignment tube 30, which ensures that the relative position of the plunger 60 and the valve seat 40 is controlled during use.

[0080] A particularly advantageous feature of the invention is that the position of the plunger 60 is controlled as it moves from the second position (i.e., the fluid passage is open) to the first position (i.e., the plunger 60 contacts the valve seat 40 and the fluid passage 50 is closed). Specifically, the plunger 60 can move along the axis X, but its movement in the lateral direction (i.e., away from the axis X) is restricted by the alignment tube 30.

[0081] The position of the valve seat 40 is also controlled by the alignment tube 30. During use, the valve seat 40 is fixed in place relative to most of the components of the valve assembly 1 and is prevented from moving laterally out of position. The alignment tube 30 allows the valve seat 40 to be kept aligned along the axis X of the valve assembly 1, which secures the valve seat 40 to the plunger 60.

[0082] Valve 1 can be assembled through the following steps:

[0083] The system provides an alignment tube 30 with a hole 33; a valve seat 40; and a plunger 60 with a sealing portion 63.

[0084] The plunger 60 is at least partially inserted into the hole 33 of the alignment tube 30;

[0085] Insert the valve seat 40 into the hole 33 of the alignment tube 30;

[0086] This allows both the valve seat 40 and the plunger 60 to be supported by the orifice 33 of the alignment tube 30, which aligns the sealing portion 63 of the plunger 60 with the valve seat 40.

[0087] The assembly method of valve 1 may include one or more of the following steps:

[0088] - Insert the alignment tube 30 into the third housing part 73. This insertion can be performed until the third housing part 73 reaches the bridging portion 37.

[0089] Insert the inlet component 13 into the alignment tube 30.

[0090] - Attach the inlet component 13 to the alignment tube 30. This attachment can be performed by laser welding, and

[0091] This can be performed until a waterproof connection is provided between the inlet component 13 and the alignment tube 30.

[0092] - Attach one or more pins 94 to the connecting body 93. This attachment can be performed by overmolding the connecting body 93 onto one or more pins 94.

[0093] - Attach the connecting body 93 to the inlet component. This attachment may involve clamping the connecting body 93 to the inlet component 13.

[0094] - Attach the first housing part 71 to the alignment tube 30; the inlet part 13; the connecting body 93; and the third housing part 73. This attachment may involve winding the first housing part 71 around the alignment tube 30. Specifically, this attachment may involve winding the first housing part around the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 30.

[0095] - Apply compression to a sub-assembly including the following: alignment tube 30; inlet component 13; connecting body 93; third housing component 73; and first housing component 71.

[0096] - Press the sealing part 63 into the first end 61 of the plunger 60.

[0097] - Insert the plunger 60 into the biasing device 82. This insertion can be performed until the biasing device contacts the first end 61 of the plunger 60.

[0098] - Insert a sub-assembly comprising the following items into the alignment tube 30: plunger 60; sealing portion 63; and biasing device 82. This insertion may be made by inserting into the chamber portion 35 of the alignment tube 30 and then into the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 30.

[0099] - Press the valve seat 40 into the support component 24.

[0100] - Press the valve seat 40 and the support member 24 into the alignment tube 30. This pressing may be into the chamber portion 35 of the alignment tube 30. This pressing may be performed to a predetermined position or size.

[0101] Some or all of the steps above may be performed in the order they are listed.

[0102] Figure 3 A second example of valve assembly 3 is shown.

[0103] As those skilled in the art will understand, several features of the second and third examples described below are the same as or similar to those of the first example described above. Where a feature of the second or third example corresponds to that of the first example, the corresponding reference numeral is used, but this reference numeral is preceded by the number "3" or "4". Unless otherwise stated, Figure 3 and Figure 4 Each feature of the second or third example shown is related to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The corresponding components in the first example shown are identical. Those skilled in the art will understand that, given the similarity of the examples, any or all compatible features of one example can be combined with those of another. Therefore, elements in the description of the examples described above can be combined with those described below.

[0104] The second example differs from the first example in at least the following ways.

[0105] A second example of valve 3 has a plunger 360 including a sealing portion 363, which functions in substantially the same manner as the sealing portion 63 of the first example 1, because the sealing portion can be configured to seal the valve seat 340 when the plunger 360 is in the first position, i.e., to close the fluid passages 350, 531. Figure 3 As shown, the sealing portion 363 may be substantially planar. The sealing portion 363 may have a substantially square or rectangular cross-section. The sealing portion 363 may comprise or be composed of a polymer. Specifically, the sealing portion 363 may comprise or be composed of an elastomer. As those skilled in the art will understand, the sealing portion 363 described and shown with respect to the second example valve 3 may be used with the first example valve 1, and the sealing portion 63 described and shown with respect to the first example valve 1 may be used with the second example valve 3.

[0106] The sealing portion 363 can be attached to the plunger 360 via a sealing portion retainer 399. The sealing portion retainer 399 can be pressed around the plunger 360 and can apply compressive force to the plunger 360 and / or the sealing portion 363. The sealing portion retainer 399 can be a clip. Alternatively or otherwise, the sealing portion 363 can be overmolded into or clipped onto the plunger 360. The first example valve 1 can also be provided with a sealing portion retainer 399.

[0107] A second example of valve 3 includes a valve seat 340 that functions in substantially the same manner as valve seat 40 of the first example 1 and is configured to be disposed within the orifice of alignment tube 330. Compared to valve seat 40 of the first example 1, valve seat 340 of the second example 3 may be configured to be disposed within the orifice of alignment tube 330 such that it is directly supported by alignment tube 330. Valve seat 340 may contact alignment tube 330, particularly the internal surface defining the orifice of alignment tube 330. This contrasts with the use of valve seat 40 with support member 24 in the first example 1. Valve seat 340 may comprise one or more materials identical to those of valve seat 40 of the first example, or may additionally or alternatively comprise polymers such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Valve seat 340 may have been machined or injection molded, such as PEEK injection molded. Thus, valve seat 340 may be visually identifiable as having been injection molded or machined, or may have mechanical properties indicating that it has been injection molded or machined. As those skilled in the art will understand, the valve seat 340 described and shown with respect to the second example valve 3 can be used with the first example valve 1, and the valve seat 40 and support member 24 described and shown with respect to the first example valve 1 can be used with the second example valve 3.

[0108] The plunger 360 of the second example valve 3 may define a plurality of orifices 364, 365. Orifices 364, 365 may each be configured to define at least a portion of fluid passages 350, 351. Alternatively, the plunger 360 may define a single orifice 364, as in the first example valve 1. Figure 1 As shown. The plunger 60 of the first example valve 1 can similarly define multiple orifices 364, 365.

[0109] The third housing part 373 may be identical to the third housing part 73 of the first example, since the third housing part 373 may be configured to provide a surface against which the bridging portion of the alignment tube 330 can be aligned. The third housing part 373 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the chamber portion 335 and the guide portion 336 of the alignment tube 330. The third housing part 373 may be configured to extend along the chamber portion 335 of the alignment tube 330. The third housing part 373 described and shown with respect to the second example valve 3 may be used with the first example valve 1, and the third housing part 73 described and shown with respect to the first example valve 1 may be used with the second example valve 3.

[0110] refer to Figures 4 to 6 A guide feature 490 may be provided on the plunger 460 at the first end 461 of the plunger and / or on the valve seat 440 or its support member 24. The guide feature 490 may be configured to align the sealing portion 463 of the plunger with the valve seat 440 and / or its support member 24. The guide feature may be configured to guide the plunger 460 relative to the valve seat 440 by sliding engagement with features of the valve seat 440, such as the axially extending surface of the valve seat 440. The guide feature 490 may function in parallel with the guide portion 36 of the alignment tube 430 to align the sealing portion 463 of the plunger 460 with the valve seat 440 and / or its support member 24. The guide feature 490 may be configured to guide the first end 461 of the plunger onto the valve seat 440, for example, when the plunger 460 moves from its second position (i.e., the fluid passage 50 is open and in fluid communication with the orifice 443 in the valve seat 440) to its first position (i.e., the plunger 460 contacts the valve seat 440 and the fluid passage 50 is closed). The guide feature 490 may be a separate component from the plunger 460, the valve seat 440, and the support member 24, or it may be integrally formed with the plunger 460, the valve seat 440, or the support member 24. The guide feature 490 may be substantially circular, and / or may be cylindrical or annular. The guide feature 490 may be integral with the sealing portion 463 or the sealing portion retainer 499.

[0111] In the third example, the plunger 460 may define a plurality of orifices 464, 465. Each of the orifices 464, 465 may be configured to define at least a portion of a fluid passage. Alternatively, the plunger 460 may define a single orifice 464, as in the first example valve 1. Figure 1 As shown. The plunger 60 of the first example valve 1 can similarly define multiple orifices 464, 465.

[0112] Guide 490 and plunger 460 in Figure 5 and 6 It is shown in more detail below. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The isometric view is a cross-sectional view taken along plane P1, and its viewing direction is substantially perpendicular to plane P1. For clarity, other features of the valve (such as valve seat 440) have been omitted. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The removal of elements is obvious to those skilled in the art, but may be included as shown and described with respect to other figures.

[0113] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, the guide 490 may have at least one channel 492, 493. Channels 492, 493 may form part of the fluid passage 50. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the illustrated example, the guide has multiple (such as two) channels 492, 493 arranged on the guide 490 in a manner circumferentially spaced apart from each other. In alternative configurations, there may be only a single channel (492 or 493), or three channels, or four channels, or another number of channels.

[0114] The size of channels 492 and 493 can be set such that they have a channel width that is substantially the same as that of orifices 464 and 465.

[0115] Although trenches 492 and 493 are in Figure 5 and Figure 6 The example depicted is shown as a groove, but channels 492, 493 may take the form of any orifice, hole, fan-shaped notch or aperture that allows fluid to pass through or communicate around the wall of guide 490.

[0116] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, orifices 464 and 465 are aligned with channels 492 and 493; however, guide 490 (and therefore channels 492 and 493) can be in any orientation relative to the orifices 464 and 465 of the plunger. For example, channel 492 can be set at an angle of 45 to 135 degrees or 90 degrees relative to orifice 464, and similarly, channel 493 can be set at an angle of 45 to 135 degrees or 90 degrees relative to orifice 465.

[0117] When reading Figures 4 to 6 As will be apparent to those skilled in the art during the associated description, when the plunger 460 is not in contact with the valve seat 440 (valve open), the fluid passage 50 is operably connected to the orifice 443 via channels 492, 493. When the plunger 460 contacts the valve seat 440 (valve closed), the fluid passage 50 is operably disconnected from the orifice 443 (e.g., when the plunger 460 contacts the valve seat 440). Figure 4 (As shown).

[0118] Figure 7 A fourth example of a valve assembly, comprising a plunger 560 and a valve seat 540, is shown. The plunger 560 has a first plunger end 561 and a second plunger end 562. The plunger 560 may include any features of the first, second, or third examples.

[0119] The plunger 560 has a sealing portion 563 that may be disposed at a first end 561 of the plunger. The sealing portion 563 may be as described in the first, second, or third example, or include features of the first, second, or third example. The sealing portion 563 may include or consist of one or more of the following: ceramic; silicon carbide; boron carbide; cubic boron nitride; tungsten carbide; diamond; ruby; sapphire; martensitic material. The sealing portion 563 may be configured to be at least partially received in the valve seat 540, and therefore may be round, conical, conical, and / or spherical.

[0120] The plunger 560 may include a damping system that may include one or more spring elements. The one or more spring elements may be configured to dampen movement of the plunger 560 relative to the valve seat 540, and optionally dampen movement of the sealing portion 563 of the plunger 560 relative to the valve seat. The one or more spring elements may be springs, which may be leaf springs, disc springs, coil springs, or take any other suitable shape. If more than one spring element is provided, all spring elements may be of the same type, such as leaf springs. A first leaf spring 597 and a second leaf spring 598 may be provided, which may be configured as follows: Figure 7 As shown.

[0121] A sealing portion 563 may be disposed on or supported by the spring element or each spring element. The sealing portion 563 may spring back by means of the spring element. The spring element or each spring element may be configured to elastically deform when a load is applied to the sealing portion 563, which may be an axial load. Specifically, the spring element may be configured to elastically deform after the sealing portion 563 contacts the valve seat 540. In practice, as the plunger 560 and its sealing portion 563 move toward the valve seat 540, the spring element is in a partially actuated state, i.e., the spring element is partially deformed, causing the spring element to attempt to return to its unacted position. Once the sealing portion 563 contacts the valve seat 540, continued movement of the plunger 560 toward the valve seat 540 can cause the spring element to elastically deform. The damping effect may be caused by the sliding of the spring element against the sealing portion 563, which may be caused by the contact between the spring element and the sealing portion 563 when the spring element bends. Therefore, the spring element, or each spring element, can act as a damping system to prevent shocks and / or wear on components in the valve assembly. Similarly, the spring element can accommodate any misalignment between the sealing element 563 and the valve seat 540.

[0122] The sealing portion 563 can be disposed between multiple spring elements, for example, such as Figure 7As shown in the figure, the sealing portion 563 is disposed between the first leaf spring 597 and the second leaf spring 598. This arrangement has the following advantages: it is easy to assemble, the alignment of the sealing portion 563 is improved, and the damping effect is improved due to the larger contact area between the leaf springs 597, 598 and the sealing element 563.

[0123] The combination of the damping system (particularly the one or more spring elements) with the hard seal portion 563 and / or hard seat 540 offers the advantage of providing a high-precision valve assembly. This is particularly advantageous in miniature or low-fluid-volume applications or applications requiring high accuracy during valve use. The hard seal portion and / or seat can be manufactured with high precision and, due to their material composition, possess reliable and predictable characteristics over time. A particularly advantageous valve assembly is achieved when the hard material seal portion 563 and / or seat 540 is used in combination with a damping system that can withstand shocks and prevent wear.

[0124] The above description relates to preferred embodiments of the invention; however, it should be understood that other embodiments and alternative combinations of the above features are possible. Variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, such as known equivalents and other features, which may be used as alternatives to or supplements to the features described herein.

[0125] For example, plungers 60, 360, 460, and 560 are interchangeable in all examples. Valve seats 40, 340, 440, and 540 are interchangeable in all examples. Alignment tubes 30, 330, and 430 are interchangeable in all examples. A fourth example may include alignment tubes from any of the first, second, and third examples. Inlet components are interchangeable in all examples, and outlet components are interchangeable in all examples.

Claims

1. A valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising: Fluid inlet and fluid outlet; Alignment tube, the alignment tube having a hole; A valve seat disposed in the orifice of the alignment tube; A fluid passage extending from the fluid inlet via the valve seat to the fluid outlet; A movable plunger having a first end and a second end, the plunger being at least partially disposed within the orifice of the alignment tube, the plunger having a sealing portion at the first end of the plunger, and being movable between a first position and a second position to change the flow restriction created by the valve seat and the sealing portion; The valve seat is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube, and the plunger is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube at a portion of the first end of the plunger remote from the plunger, such that the alignment tube aligns the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the alignment tube has a guide portion for receiving and guiding the plunger and a chamber portion for receiving the valve seat, wherein the majority of the length of the plunger in the longitudinal direction is preferably received in the guide portion.

3. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein the guide portion has an orifice diameter substantially the same as the diameter of the plunger receiving at least a portion therein. And / or wherein the plunger is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube at least at the second end of the plunger.

4. The valve assembly according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the alignment tube is a thin-walled tube, and the wall thickness of the guide portion and / or the chamber portion of the alignment tube is less than one-quarter of the orifice of the alignment tube; preferably less than one-third of the orifice of the alignment tube; preferably less than one-tenth of the orifice of the alignment tube.

5. The valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alignment tube has a microstructure indicating that it has been deeply drawn.

6. The valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the chamber portion is tubular and configured to receive the valve seat to allow assembly of the valve seat and the alignment tube by linear translation. And / or wherein the guide portion is tubular and configured to slidably engage at least a portion of the plunger; The guide portion and / or chamber portion of the alignment tube are preferably substantially cylindrical.

7. The valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the alignment tube includes a bridging portion disposed between the guide portion and the chamber portion of the alignment tube. The guiding portion has an internal lateral dimension that is preferably not equal to the internal lateral dimension of the chamber portion, and the bridging portion preferably provides a transition region between the guiding portion and the chamber portion. And / or wherein the guide portion has an external lateral dimension that is not equal to the external lateral dimension of the chamber portion.

8. The valve assembly according to claim 7, wherein: The valve assembly includes: a biasing device located between the plunger and the bridging portion of the alignment tube, wherein the biasing device is preferably located in the chamber portion of the alignment tube; and / or The guide feature is provided at one or both of the following locations: at the first end of the plunger on the plunger; and on the valve seat, wherein the guide feature is configured to align the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

9. The valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the internal lateral dimension of the chamber portion is greater than the internal lateral dimension of the guide portion of the alignment tube, and / or the external lateral dimension of the chamber portion is greater than the external lateral dimension of the guide portion of the alignment tube, wherein the chamber portion of the alignment tube has a first end configured to receive the valve seat, and wherein the chamber portion preferably extends radially outward at the first end of the chamber portion to facilitate assembly of the valve seat into the alignment tube.

10. The valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the plunger extends at least partially from the guide portion into the chamber portion of the alignment tube.

11. The valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the alignment tube includes a laterally disposed orifice, and the valve assembly is configured such that the fluid passage passes through the laterally disposed orifice.

12. The valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the valve assembly comprising: A damping system configured to dampen the movement of the plunger as it moves from the first position to the second position, the damping system including at least one spring element disposed at the first end of the plunger.

13. The valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, the valve assembly comprising: A connecting device configured to clamp onto a component of the valve assembly, the connecting device including one or more conductive components.

14. A method of assembling a valve assembly, the method comprising: Provide an alignment tube with holes; Valve seat; and a plunger, the plunger having a first end and a second end and having a sealing portion at the first end of the plunger; The plunger is at least partially inserted into the hole of the alignment tube; Insert the valve seat into the hole of the alignment tube; The valve seat is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube, and the plunger is supported by the orifice of the alignment tube at a portion of the first end of the plunger away from the plunger, so that the alignment tube aligns the sealing portion of the plunger with the valve seat.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the method is configured for assembling a valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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