Pressure regulating valve for controlling or regulating fluid pressure in pilot pressure chamber and vibration damper having such pressure regulating valve

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressure regulating valve (1) for controlling or regulating a fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber, comprising a valve housing (10) having at least one inlet which can be fluidically connected to the pilot pressure chamber and at least one outlet, a pilot valve chamber (20) being arranged between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet, the pilot valve chamber (20) is fluidly connected to the outlet via a first through-passage (17) and to the inlet via a second through-passage (18); an energizable actuating device (70), which can move the tappet (60) having a follower (65) along the longitudinal axis (L) against a return spring (75) from a first position (A) to a second position (B); and a pilot seal (40) having a sealing section (42) and a holding section (44), the pilot seal (40) being held in the holding section (44) in a stationary manner relative to the valve housing (10); wherein, in the second position (B), the follower (65) sealingly abuts the pilot seal (40) against the second valve seat (22) and a second through-passage (18) between the pilot valve chamber (20) and the at least one inlet is closed; and wherein the follower (65) is in operative contact with the pilot seal (40) between the first position (A) and the second position (B) and elastically deforms the pilot seal (40) to reach the second position (B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a pressure regulating valve having the features of claim 1 for controlling or regulating the fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber. The invention also relates to a vibration damper having such a pressure regulating valve having the features of claim 21. Background Technology

[0002] Pressure regulating valves with different designs are known in the prior art. For example, a commonly used pressure regulating valve in the prior art is used in shock absorbers in motor vehicles, where the damping characteristics of the pressure regulating valve depend on the volumetric flow rate of the fluid flowing through the proportional valve. Based on the volumetric flow rate, a softer damping setting that emphasizes comfort or a stiffer damping setting that is more suitable for sporty driving can be set. In the shock absorber, an electrically energized actuator is used, which allows the driver to preset multiple damping characteristics, or the onboard computer to automatically adjust the damping characteristics based on the vehicle's driving conditions or the condition of the ground cover along which the vehicle is currently moving.

[0003] The fluid can be hydraulic or pneumatic, with hydraulic fluid or compressed air typically used. The pilot pressure chamber in a hydraulic or pneumatic operating device is used to control or regulate a pilot control valve, which is usually also implemented as a hydraulic or pneumatic spool valve. When the pilot control valve is designed as a proportional valve or proportional spool valve, the volumetric flow rate through the proportional valve or proportional spool valve can be steplessly regulated within certain limits by the pressure in the pilot pressure chamber.

[0004] This type of pressure regulating valve has been proven in the past, but it is always essential to ensure the existence of a fail-safe feature, also known as a "fail-safe," in the event of a power failure that could lead to a malfunction in the valve's actuator. This ensures that even in the event of a power failure, the vehicle can continue to operate with defined damping characteristics. Here, a moderate damping characteristic, neither too stiff nor too soft, is typically sought.

[0005] These requirements lead to relatively complex structures for devices, particularly vibration dampers, as can be seen in US20160091044A1 and WO2016066314A1. The structure becomes complex, especially due to the need for multiple spool valves. Additional vibration dampers are disclosed in US20160369862A1, JP2009115319A, US5147018A, WO2011023351A1, and US20050016086A1. In particular, the vibration damper disclosed in EP2678581B1 also provides moderate damping characteristics in a "fail-safe" configuration.

[0006] A drawback of existing pressure regulating valves is that, within the lowest regulating range, the control or regulation of fluid pressure varies considerably due to component tolerances. Consequently, damping behavior can vary significantly, especially under low actuator energization conditions. Furthermore, the possibility of adjusting the regulating range for specific application scenarios is very limited. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention is hereby proposed.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a universal pressure regulating valve that eliminates the known drawbacks of the prior art in a manner that suits the purpose. The proposed pressure regulating valve should be able to repeatably adjust damping behavior even under low energization conditions within the lowest regulation range. As another objective, it is possible to provide a pressure regulating valve for regulating the fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber, which is simple in construction and regulates the pressure in the pilot pressure chamber to a deterministic value even without electrical energy for energizing the actuator. Furthermore, one aspect of the invention is based on the objective of providing a device by which the fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber can be regulated, and which can be operated using such a pressure regulating valve. Additionally, the regulating behavior should be adaptable to specific applications depending on the current applied.

[0009] The above objective is achieved by a pressure regulating valve having the features of claim 1 and a vibration damper having the features of claim 21.

[0010] Further advantageous designs of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a pressure regulating valve for controlling or regulating the fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber has a valve housing having at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The at least one inlet is fluidly connected to the pilot pressure chamber.

[0012] The pilot valve chamber is connected to at least one outlet via a first through passage and to at least one inlet via a second through passage.

[0013] In addition, the valve housing has a second valve seat disposed between at least one inlet and a pilot valve chamber, the second valve seat preferably being disposed in the pilot valve chamber.

[0014] Furthermore, the pressure regulating valve according to the invention has an energized actuation device that can move a push rod with a follower along the longitudinal axis from a first position to a second position, which can also be referred to as the initial position, overcoming the restoring force of the return spring.

[0015] In addition, the pilot seal is provided with a sealing section and a retaining section, wherein the pilot seal is held in position on the valve body by the retaining section, preferably spaced apart from the second valve seat.

[0016] Furthermore, preferably, the follower effectively contacts the pilot seal between the first position or the initial position and the second position, and the pilot seal must elastically deform to reach the second position.

[0017] The concept upon which this invention is based is to arrange the pilot seal and the second pilot valve seat separately. Only when the energized actuator is fully energized does the follower press the pilot seal, more precisely, the sealing section of the pilot seal along the longitudinal axis L, against the return force of the return spring and the bending force of the pilot seal, in a sealing manner against the second valve seat. This achieves well-adjustable and comfortable damping behavior.

[0018] When the actuating device is slightly energized, for example using 0.4A, the push rod with the follower moves from a first position toward the pilot seal. The follower first makes effective contact with the pilot seal. In this "intermediate position," fluid can flow into the pilot valve chamber from at least one inlet through a second through-pass and can flow out toward at least one outlet through a first through-pass.

[0019] When the actuator is energized to a large extent, the pilot seal is pressed, forced through, or bent by the follower and pressed against the second valve seat, which can also be called the pilot valve seat. In other words, a particularly elastic displacement is made of the pilot seal or sealing section relative to the retaining section. By this displacement, the sealing surface facing the second valve seat seals against the second valve seat and preferably closes the second through passage together with the follower. In this state, fluid cannot flow from at least one inlet through the pilot valve chamber to at least one outlet.

[0020] A preferred embodiment of the invention specifies that, in a first position, the follower seals against a first valve seat and closes a first through passage between the pilot valve chamber and at least one outlet. In a second position, the pilot seal seals against a second valve seat and closes a second through passage between the pilot valve chamber and at least one inlet.

[0021] The first valve seat can be closed by a follower. This ensures that even in the event of an electrical failure, the vehicle can continue to operate with defined damping characteristics. Here, a moderate damping characteristic that is neither too stiff nor too soft is typically sought. This pressure regulating valve has a so-called fail-safe function.

[0022] An improvement of the invention specifies that the follower is configured as a flange. The follower can be arranged on the tappet, for example, as an annular disc, wherein, preferably, the annular disc is detachably arranged on the tappet. For example, the follower can be arranged on the tappet in a way that prevents loss via a safety device, wherein, preferably, the follower and the tappet are connected approximately leak-free. As already mentioned above, the follower seals against the first valve seat in the first position. Leakage between the follower and the tappet should be avoided.

[0023] The follower is preferably sized such that it can rest completely on the first and / or second valve seats. In the simplest case, the first and / or second valve seats are each arranged around a longitudinal axis on a preferably identical diameter, and the outer diameter of the follower is larger than the diameter of the first and / or second valve seats.

[0024] An improvement of the invention specifies that the follower is arranged on the push rod at a distance from the free end of the push rod. The free end of the push rod may protrude through the second valve seat and / or pilot seal in a second position, and may further preferably protrude into the second through channel in the second position.

[0025] Another preferred embodiment of the invention specifies that, in the first position, the pilot seal is spaced apart from the second valve seat. In the first position, the actuable actuator is not energized, and therefore the pushrod or the armature of the actuating pushrod is in its initial position. In the first position, the second valve seat is open.

[0026] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that, in the first position, the second distance between the pilot seal and the second valve seat is less than the first distance between the push rod or its follower and the pilot seal. In order for the push rod or its follower to effectively contact the pilot seal, the return spring must be offset, thereby compensating for the tolerance.

[0027] An improvement of the invention specifies that the pilot seal has at least one flow-through opening. The at least one flow-through opening is preferably located outside the sealing section and more preferably at least between the sealing section and the retaining section.

[0028] At least one flow-through opening may extend fully or partially through the retaining section. Fluid can flow through the pilot seal through at least one flow-through opening, especially when the sealing section abuts against the second seat without sealing. The at least one flow-through opening may have any shape and allows fluid communication between opposite sides of the pilot seal along its longitudinal axis.

[0029] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the pilot seal to have a central through opening. The central through opening is preferably sized such that the pushrod can at least partially protrude through it.

[0030] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that the pilot seal has a spring section. Preferably, the spring section connects the retaining section and the sealing section and allows for spring-elastic displacement of the sealing section relative to the retaining section. In a preferred design, the spring section may include at least one web connecting the retaining section and the sealing section.

[0031] According to another preferred design, the pilot seal is configured as a disc-shaped flat spring element. In particular, it is preferred that the stop section, spring section, and at least partially sealing section be configured as a single piece, preferably as a disc-shaped element. The disc-shaped flat spring element can be designed in a simple manner for the corresponding application and can be easily and inexpensively manufactured. This disc-shaped flat spring element has also proven to be reliable.

[0032] An improvement of the invention specifies that the pilot seal is fixedly held on the valve housing by at least one retaining device. The at least one retaining device may, for example, include a spacer ring that clamps the pilot seal between two valve housing components. The at least one retaining device may also include a sealant or spring washer adapted to position and retain the pilot seal within the valve housing.

[0033] According to another preferred design, a pilot valve chamber is formed within the valve housing, wherein, preferably, the pilot valve chamber is surrounded by the valve housing. Within the pilot valve chamber, a first valve seat and a second valve seat are arranged along a longitudinal axis on opposite sides of the valve housing, wherein the first valve seat surrounds or encloses an opening of a first through-passage, and the second valve seat surrounds or encloses an opening of a second through-passage.

[0034] It has also proven advantageous that the valve body includes a first wall section having a first valve seat and a first through passage. The first wall section can be configured as a valve body cover and preferably closes the pilot valve chamber on one side along the longitudinal axis, thereby producing an advantageous configuration of the valve body.

[0035] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous that the first wall section has at least one through-hole forming a bypass around the first valve seat. This bypass allows fluid communication between the pilot valve chamber and the side of the wall section opposite to the pilot valve chamber, not only in the first position of the pushrod but also in the second position of the pushrod, and allows fluid communication between the pilot valve chamber and at least one outlet, particularly when the pushrod is in the first position and the pilot seal is sealingly abutting against the first valve seat.

[0036] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous to have a fail-safe seal, biased against the first wall section, arranged on the side of the first wall section opposite to the first valve seat. This fail-safe seal abuts against the wall section in such a way that the through-hole is closed. The fail-safe seal biased against the first wall section can preset the pressure in the pilot valve chamber, under which the through-hole is released and fluid can flow from the pilot valve chamber through the through-hole to at least one outlet. The through-hole and the fail-safe seal interacting with it ensure that the damper continues to operate with defined damping characteristics even in the event of an electrical failure. The damping characteristics can be defined by selecting the bias of the fail-safe seal, wherein the damping characteristics are generally selected such that they are neither too stiff nor too soft.

[0037] An advantageous improvement of the invention specifies that the first wall section is formed by a valve housing cover component. The valve housing cover component may, for example, be configured as a disc-shaped member and, together with the main valve housing component, at least partially surround the pilot valve chamber.

[0038] One improvement of the invention specifies that the valve body includes a second wall section, which includes a second valve seat or stop and a second valve seat. Furthermore, the second wall section may also include a second through channel, wherein the second through channel is preferably configured as a hole. The second wall section is preferably arranged along a longitudinal axis on the side of the valve body and / or pilot valve chamber opposite to the first wall section, wherein the second wall section may be integrally formed with the main valve body component. According to one exemplary embodiment, the stop may be formed, for example, on the main valve body component, and the second valve seat may be formed on the second wall section. According to another exemplary embodiment, both the stop and the second valve seat may be formed on the second wall section.

[0039] An improvement of the invention specifies that the second wall section includes an insert bushing. The insert bushing can be inserted, in particular, by press-fitting into a corresponding opening in the main valve housing component along the longitudinal axis, thereby allowing precise adjustment of the position of the second valve seat along the longitudinal axis. Specifically, if a stop is not formed on the insert bushing during insertion, the position of the second valve seat along the longitudinal axis, especially relative to the stop, can be precisely adjusted.

[0040] However, it is also advantageous for the insert bushing to have a retaining area for the pilot seal. The insert bushing may, for example, have a radially projecting flange with an axially resting surface that forms the retaining area and is arranged at a first distance from the second valve seat.

[0041] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention specifies that the second valve seat and / or retaining area has at least one bypass passage. The corresponding bypass passage may preferably be configured as a groove or recess, and allows for fluid flow, particularly when the pilot seal seals against the second valve seat in the second position.

[0042] According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the valve housing includes a main valve chamber. The main valve chamber is fluidly connected to at least one inlet and at least one outlet. A main valve spool, biased against a main valve seat by means of a main spring, may preferably be arranged in the main valve chamber. Preferably, a pilot valve chamber is fluidly connected to the main valve chamber via a second through passage, whereby fluid can flow from the inlet through the main valve chamber, and particularly through the second through passage and the pilot valve chamber, to at least one outlet.

[0043] One improvement of the present invention specifies that the main valve slide valve is configured as a proportional slide valve.

[0044] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a vibration damper having the aforementioned pressure regulating valve. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Hereinafter, seven embodiments of the pressure regulating valve according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0046] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve with an energized actuator according to a first embodiment is shown. The pressure regulating valve has a push rod and a follower arranged on the push rod, wherein the actuator is not energized and the follower is sealingly abutting against a first valve seat in a pilot valve chamber at a first position.

[0047] Figure 2 It shows that according to Figure 1 Enlarged detail view of the pressure regulating valve;

[0048] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the actuator is slightly energized and the follower is in effective contact with the pilot seal;

[0049] Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 3 Enlarged detail view of the pressure regulating valve;

[0050] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve according to a first embodiment is shown, wherein the actuating device is energized significantly, and the follower deforms the pilot seal and presses the pilot seal against the second valve seat in a sealing manner.

[0051] Figure 6 It shows that according to Figure 5 Enlarged detail view of the pressure regulating valve;

[0052] Figure 7 An enlarged detail view of a second embodiment of the pressure regulating valve is shown;

[0053] Figure 8 An enlarged detail view of a third embodiment of the pressure regulating valve is shown;

[0054] Figure 9 An enlarged detail view of a fourth embodiment of the pressure regulating valve is shown;

[0055] Figure 10 An enlarged detail view of a fifth embodiment of the pressure regulating valve is shown;

[0056] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve according to a sixth embodiment is shown, wherein the actuator is not energized and the push rod is arranged in the initial position;

[0057] Figure 12 It shows that according to Figure 11 Enlarged detail view of the sixth embodiment of the pressure regulating valve;

[0058] Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve according to a seventh embodiment is shown, wherein the actuator is not energized and the push rod is arranged in the initial position;

[0059] Figure 14 It shows that according to Figure 13 Enlarged detail view of the seventh embodiment of the pressure regulating valve;

[0060] Figure 15 It shows that according to Figures 1 to 14 Detailed drawings of the pilot seal; and

[0061] Figure 16 A detailed diagram of an improved pilot seal is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0062] In the following detailed description of the accompanying drawings, identical or functionally identical parts or features are identified by the same reference numerals. Furthermore, not all identical or functionally identical parts or features are shown with reference numerals in the drawings.

[0063] First, refer to the following Figures 1 to 6 A first exemplary embodiment will be described in detail. Subsequently, improvements will be briefly described, wherein only those related to [specific embodiments] will be discussed. Figures 1 to 6 The difference from the first embodiment.

[0064] Figure 1A first exemplary embodiment of a pressure regulating valve 1 for controlling or regulating fluid pressure is shown. The pressure regulating valve 1 can be used, for example, in a shock absorber (not shown), particularly in a shock absorber (not shown) of a motor vehicle, to adjust the damping characteristics of the shock absorber.

[0065] The pressure regulating valve 1 includes a valve body 10 having at least one inlet and at least one outlet. The at least one inlet may be connected to a pilot pressure chamber.

[0066] The valve housing 10 at least partially surrounds the pilot valve chamber 20, wherein at least one second valve seat 22 is arranged in the pilot valve chamber 20. Furthermore, see according to... Figures 1 to 10 In one embodiment, the first valve seat 21 may be arranged in the pilot valve chamber 20.

[0067] The first valve seat 21 and the second valve seat 22 are arranged along the longitudinal axis L on opposite sides of the pilot valve chamber 20 in the valve housing 10, or more precisely in the pilot valve chamber 20.

[0068] Especially from the perspective of Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 10 As can be seen from the enlarged detail view, the first valve seat 21 is arranged in the first wall section 30, and the second valve seat 22 is arranged in the second wall section 32.

[0069] The pilot valve chamber 20 is connected to at least one outlet via a first through passage 17. In addition, the pilot valve chamber 20 is connected to at least one inlet via a second through passage 18, whereby fluid can flow into the pilot valve chamber 20 through at least one inlet and through the second through passage 18 and out through the first through passage 17 to at least one outlet.

[0070] The first wall section 30 includes a first through channel 17, a first valve seat 21, and preferably a through hole 19, which enables fluid communication between the pilot valve chamber 20 and at least one outlet. The second wall section 32 includes a second through channel 18 and a second valve seat 22.

[0071] A fail-safe seal 35 is arranged on the side of the first wall section 30 away from the pilot valve chamber 20. The fail-safe seal 35 is biased against the first wall section 30 and, in this case, sealably against the fail-safe seat 36 at the through hole 19.

[0072] The fail-safe seal 35 can be configured as a disc-shaped flat spring element and can be further arranged between the first wall section 30 and the actuator housing 71.

[0073] The biasing of the fail-safe seal 35 can be achieved by the fail-safe spring 37.

[0074] In addition, from Figures 1 to 10 As can be seen, the fault fuse holder 36 can be composed of at least one annular protrusion. In the illustrated embodiment, the fault fuse holder 36 is formed by two protrusions coaxially arranged around the longitudinal axis L.

[0075] The valve housing 10 may include a main housing component, a valve housing cover component 31, and / or an insert bushing 33. Preferably, the valve housing cover component 31 includes a first wall segment 30, and the insert bushing 33 includes a second wall segment 32.

[0076] In addition, from Figures 1 to 14 As can be seen, the valve housing 10 has a retaining region 15, which is arranged along the longitudinal axis L between the first valve seat 21 and the second valve seat 22 in the pilot valve chamber 20. The retaining region 15 can also be referred to as the pilot seal support portion, and can be configured according to... Figures 1 to 6 The embodiment shown is formed by a shoulder or resting surface of the valve housing 10 in the pilot valve chamber 20, and the pilot seal 40, or more precisely, the retaining section 44 of the pilot seal 40, rests on the shoulder or resting surface.

[0077] To securely mount the pilot seal 40 onto the valve housing 10, a retaining device 45 may be provided. The retaining device 45, according to the first embodiment, may be a ring pressed into the valve housing 10, which secures the pilot seal 40.

[0078] The first valve seat 21 and the second valve seat 22 are preferably configured with approximately the same diameter relative to the longitudinal axis L. In particular, the cross-section of the second valve seat 22 determines the regulating behavior of the pressure regulating valve 1.

[0079] In addition, especially from Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 11 , Figure 13 As can be seen, the valve housing 10 has a main valve chamber 50, which is connected to at least one inlet fluid on one side and at least one outlet fluid on the other side. In the main valve chamber 50, a main valve slide valve 54 may be arranged according to the illustrated embodiment, which is held biased against the main valve seat 51 by a main valve spring 55.

[0080] The main valve chamber 50 is fluid-displaced between at least one inlet and the pilot valve chamber 20. This means that fluid must first flow through the main valve chamber 50 through at least one inlet before it can enter the pilot valve chamber 20 through the second through passage 18. For this purpose, the main valve spool 54 has Figure 1 The through section 58 shown.

[0081] Furthermore, the pressure regulating valve 1 has an energized actuator 70, wherein, as in the illustrated embodiment, the energized actuator 70 may preferably be formed of an electromagnetic actuator.

[0082] The actuation device 70 can be housed in the actuator housing 71, wherein the actuation device 70 further includes an excitation coil 72, an armature 73, and a return spring 75. The armature 73 can move along the longitudinal axis L in a known manner against the spring force of the return spring 75 when the excitation coil 72 is energized.

[0083] The actuator housing 71 has a receiving area into which the valve housing 10 can be at least partially inserted. The valve housing 10 can be securely disposed in the receiving area of ​​the actuator housing 71, for example, through a form fit, force fit, and / or material fit connection.

[0084] Furthermore, the pressure regulating valve 1 has a push rod 60, which can be moved along the longitudinal axis L by an actuation device 70 against the force of the return spring 75. The push rod 60 can preferably be connected to the armature 73 and can also be... Figure 1 The actuator housing 71 is movably supported and held along the longitudinal axis L by means of a support element 77.

[0085] The tappet 60 protrudes from the actuator housing 71 into the valve housing 10. Specifically, from... Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figures 6 to 10 As can be seen in the detailed diagram, the first free end 61 of the tappet 60 protrudes into the pilot valve chamber 20.

[0086] Furthermore, as can be seen from the accompanying drawings, the push rod 60 has a pressure compensation hole 62 through which fluid can flow along the longitudinal axis L through the push rod 60. Therefore, fluid can flow from the first free end 61 through the push rod 60 to the pressure compensation chamber 76 opposite the armature 73, thereby enabling pressure compensation, and the pressure regulating valve 1 can be configured in a pressure compensation manner.

[0087] The tappet 60 also has a follower 65, which is arranged on the tappet 60 and preferably adjacent to the free end 61. The follower 65 may be formed on the tappet 60 itself or by means of... Figures 1 to 10 The additional components of the described embodiment are constituted.

[0088] The follower 65 may include, for example, a disc-shaped follower ring 66 and can be detachably fastened to the pushrod 60 by means of a retaining ring 67.

[0089] The pilot seal 40 according to the accompanying drawings includes a disc element. The disc element is preferably configured as a disc-shaped flat spring element.

[0090] The pilot seal 40 is fixedly arranged in the valve housing 10 or the pilot valve chamber 20, spaced apart from the second valve seat 22 and spaced apart from the first valve seat along the longitudinal axis L. A first distance A1, measured along the longitudinal axis L between the first valve seat 21 and the pilot seal 40, is greater than a second distance A2, measured along the longitudinal axis L between the second valve seat 22 and the pilot seal 40.

[0091] An exemplary pilot seal 40 in Figure 15 or Figure 16 As shown, both pilot seals 40 can be used in all described embodiments.

[0092] according to Figure 15 The pilot seal 40 can be substantially described as an annular disc and has a sealing section 42, a spring section 43, and / or a retaining section 44. The sealing section 42 and the retaining section 44 are each approximately annular in shape, and the retaining section 44 radially surrounds the sealing section 42. The sealing section 42 and the retaining section 44 are connected by the spring section 43. Therefore, the sealing section 42 can elastically displace relative to the retaining section 44 along the longitudinal axis.

[0093] The sealing section 42 can be described substantially as annular and includes a sealing surface 41, which is configured to seal against the second valve seat 22 as will be described in detail later. The sealing section 42 has an inner diameter.

[0094] Furthermore, based on Figure 15 As can be seen in the detailed drawing of the pilot seal 40, the pilot seal 40 has one or more flow-through openings 49 outside the sealing section 42. Fluid can flow through the pilot seal 40 along the longitudinal axis L through at least one flow-through opening 49. According to... Figure 11 In an exemplary embodiment, the pilot seal 40 has a central through opening 49 and two through openings 49 arranged between the retaining section 44 and the sealing section 42 outside the spring arm of the spring section 43.

[0095] Alternatively, the pilot seal 40 can be as follows: Figure 16 The configuration shown is star-shaped. Multiple spring sections 43, preferably radially protruding from the sealing section 42, may be provided, with retaining sections 44 arranged at their free ends. One or more flow-through openings 49 may be arranged between the radially protruding spring sections 43 and / or centrally relative to the sealing section 42.

[0096] The follower 65 is preferably configured as an annular shape and has an outer diameter, wherein the outer diameter is larger than the diameter of the first valve seat 21 and / or the second valve seat 22, and the outer diameter of the follower 65 is larger than the inner diameter of the pilot seal 40 or the inner diameter of the sealing section 42.

[0097] The central through opening 49 has an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the follower 65 and preferably larger than the outer diameter of the push rod 60 and / or the retaining ring 67.

[0098] According to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 7 to 10 In the unactivated state of the actuation device 70, the follower 65 is positioned at the first position A by means of the return spring 75. For clarity, the figure in which the actuation device 70 is unactivated is indicated by "A".

[0099] At the first position A, the follower 65 seals against the first valve seat 21 and closes the first through passage 17.

[0100] The through-hole 19 is arranged in the first wall section 30 such that the follower 65 cannot seal against the through-hole 19. In the event of an electrical failure or when the actuator 70 is not energized or actuated, fluid can flow from the pilot valve chamber 20 through the through-hole 19 to at least one outlet against the sealing action of the fail-safe seal 35, thereby ensuring that, for example, even in the event of an electrical failure, the vehicle can continue to operate with the defined damping characteristics of the shock absorber.

[0101] At this first position A of the tappet 60 or follower 65, fluid cannot flow from the pilot valve chamber 20 through the first through passage 17 to at least one outlet. In other words, the outlet side of the pilot valve chamber 20 is closed at this first position A.

[0102] Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 7 to 14 A push rod 60 or follower 65 is shown at a first position A. At this position, the pilot seal 40 is undeformed and can be approximately described as a flat disc. The pilot seal 40, more precisely the sealing section 42, is arranged at a first distance A1 from the first valve seat 21 measured along the longitudinal axis L and at a second distance A2 from the second valve seat 22 also measured along the longitudinal axis L, wherein the second distance A2 is less than the first distance A1, i.e., A1 > A2. See also... Figure 10 .

[0103] In the actuated state of the actuating device 70, the excitation coil 72 of the actuating device 70 is slightly energized, for example, 0.4A, and the push rod 60 with the follower 65 is adjusted accordingly. Figure 3 and Figure 4Move from the first valve seat 21 to the second valve seat 22. Here, as... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the follower 65 is in effective contact with the pilot seal 40. The end side of the follower 65 abuts against the side of the sealing section 42 opposite to the sealing surface 41.

[0104] In this "intermediate position" of the follower 65, fluid can flow not only from the pilot valve chamber 20 through the first through passage 17 to at least one outlet, but also from at least one inlet into the pilot valve chamber 20 through the second through passage 18. In this intermediate position, fluid flows through at least one through opening 49 of the pilot seal 40.

[0105] In a further actuated state of the actuating device 70, the excitation coil 73 of the actuating device 70 is significantly energized, and the follower 65... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The pilot seal 40 is pressed against the second valve seat 22, causing the pilot seal 40 to elastically deform. As a result, the sealing section 42 is displaced relative to the retaining section 44 of the retaining region 15 along the longitudinal axis L towards the second valve seat 22 and abuts against the second valve seat 22. Therefore, at the second position B, the sealing surface 41 seals against the second valve seat 22 and, together with the follower 65, closes the second through passage 18.

[0106] At the second position B of the follower 65, the follower 65 presses the pilot seal 40 against the second valve seat 22 in a sealing manner and prevents fluid from flowing into the pilot valve chamber 20 from at least one inlet.

[0107] according to Figure 7 The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the pilot seal 40 is fixed in a certain way.

[0108] from Figure 7 As can be seen, the pilot seal 40 is fixedly held by a retaining device 45 configured as a spacer ring. The spacer ring may be made of, for example, plastic or sintered material and may have one or more flow channels 46 that enable fluid communication between the pilot valve chamber 20 and the through hole 19. The spacer ring can clamp or fix the pilot seal 40 between the valve body cover component 31 and the retaining region 15 configured as a shoulder.

[0109] The flow channel 46 can be configured as a radially oriented groove on the side facing the valve body cover component 31.

[0110] exist Figure 8A third embodiment is shown. This embodiment differs in the design of the retaining device 45, which is configured as a metal plate that axially tensions the pilot seal 40. The metal plate may have one or more flow channels 46 that enable fluid communication between the pilot valve chamber 20 and the through-hole 19. These flow channels 46 may, for example, be configured between spring fingers of the metal plate. A spacer ring axially tensions the pilot seal 40 between the valve body cover component 31 and the retaining region 15, which is configured as a shoulder.

[0111] Figure 9 A fourth embodiment is shown. This embodiment differs from the previous embodiments only in the design of the retaining device 45. The pilot seal 40 is directly fixed in the valve housing 10 by caulking.

[0112] exist Figure 10 The fifth embodiment is shown. This embodiment differs in the design of the second wall section 32 or the insert bushing 33. According to the fifth embodiment, the insert bushing 33 includes a retaining region 15 and a second valve seat 22. The retaining region 15 is configured as a resting surface on a radially projecting flange, and the second valve seat 22 and the retaining region 15 can be manufactured in a common machining step, thereby achieving high dimensional accuracy in the position of the retaining region 15 and the valve seat 22 along the longitudinal axis L. In other words, the second distance between the sealing surface 41 of the pilot seal 40 and the second valve seat 22 can be established in a dimensionally precise manner.

[0113] The retaining device 45 can be configured as described above in combination with the embodiments and their improvements, and can position and retain the pilot seal 40 in the valve housing 10.

[0114] exist Figures 11 to 14 The sixth and seventh embodiments are shown in the figure.

[0115] As a difference from the aforementioned embodiments, it should be mentioned that neither embodiment has a first valve seat 21, and the first through passage 17 is not closed by the follower 65 at the first position A of the push rod 60.

[0116] The push rod 60 protrudes into the pilot valve chamber 20 through the first through passage 18. Through the first through passage 18, fluid can flow from the pilot valve chamber 20 to at least one outlet at any position of the push rod 60, unlike the previous embodiment, even at the first position A.

[0117] This pressure regulating valve 1 is more cost-effective due to its simpler structure, but it does not have a fail-safe device that ensures the vehicle can continue to operate with defined damping characteristics even in the event of an electrical failure.

[0118] according to Figures 11 to 14 The push rod 60 includes a follower 65, and the push rod 60 is in direct and effective contact with the pilot seal 40 to bend the pilot seal 40 and seal the pilot seal 40 against the second valve seat 22 at the second position B.

[0119] like Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the tappet 60 has an end surface that forms a follower 65. According to... Figure 11 and Figure 12 In this embodiment, the end surface is disposed on the free end 61 of the pushrod. In other words, the free end 61 forms a follower 65 and is in effective contact with the pilot seal 40.

[0120] According to Figure 11 and Figure 12 And according to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The difference between the implementation methods lies in the design of the follower 65. In the last embodiment, the follower 65 is formed by a stepped design of the pushrod 60. The end surface of the follower 65 is spaced apart from the free end 61.

[0121] The free end 61 of the push rod 60 can preferably protrude freely through the pilot seal 40 at the first position A and / or the second position B.

[0122] Furthermore, this embodiment is the same as the sixth embodiment described above.

[0123] List of reference numerals

[0124] 1. Pressure regulating valve

[0125] 10 valve housing

[0126] 15 Maintain Area

[0127] 17 First Through Passage

[0128] 18 Second Through Passage

[0129] 19 through holes

[0130] 20 pilot valve chamber

[0131] 21 First valve seat

[0132] 22 Second valve seat

[0133] 30 First wall section

[0134] 31 Valve housing cover component

[0135] 32 Second wall section

[0136] 33 Insert bushing

[0137] 35 Failure Fuel Seal

[0138] 36 Faulty Fuse Holder

[0139] 37 Faulty Fuse Spring

[0140] 40 pilot seal

[0141] 41 Sealing Surface

[0142] 42 Sealing Section

[0143] 43 Spring Section

[0144] 44 Maintaining Section

[0145] 45 Holding Device

[0146] 46 flow channels

[0147] 49 through openings

[0148] 50 main valve chamber

[0149] 51 Main Valve Seat

[0150] 54 Main Valve Spool Valve

[0151] 55 main spring

[0152] 58 Through Section

[0153] 60 paddles

[0154] 61 Free End

[0155] 62 pressure compensation holes

[0156] 65 Follower

[0157] 66 Follower Ring

[0158] 67 fixed ring

[0159] 70 Actuation Device

[0160] 71 Actuator Housing

[0161] 72 excitation coil

[0162] 73 armature

[0163] 75 return spring

[0164] 76 Pressure Compensation Chamber

[0165] 77 Support elements

[0166] L longitudinal axis

[0167] A1 First Distance

[0168] A2 Second Distance

Claims

1. A pressure regulating valve (1) for controlling or regulating the fluid pressure in a pilot pressure chamber, comprising: - Valve housing (10), the valve housing (10) having at least one inlet and at least one outlet, the inlet being fluidly connected to the pilot pressure chamber, wherein, A pilot valve chamber (20) is arranged between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet, the pilot valve chamber (20) being fluidly connected to the outlet via a first through passage (17) and to the inlet via a second through passage (18); - An energized actuating device (70) that can move a push rod (60) with a follower (65) along a longitudinal axis (L) against a return spring (75) from a first position (A) to a second position (B); and - A pilot seal (40) having a sealing section (42) and a retaining section (44) wherein the pilot seal (40) is fixedly held in the retaining section (44) relative to the valve housing (10); -In the second position (B), the follower (65) seals the pilot seal (40) against the second valve seat (22) in a sealing manner, and the second through passage (18) between the pilot valve chamber (20) and the at least one inlet is closed; and - wherein the follower (65) effectively contacts the pilot seal (40) between the first position (A) and the second position (B) and causes the pilot seal (40) to elastically deform to reach the second position (B).

2. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The follower (65) seals against the first valve seat (21) at the first position (A) and closes the first through passage (17) between the pilot valve chamber (20) and the at least one outlet.

3. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The follower (65) is configured as a flange, and / or the follower (65) is detachably arranged on the push rod (60).

4. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The follower (65) is arranged on the push rod (60) at a distance from the free end (61) of the push rod (60).

5. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, At the first position (A), the pilot seal (40) is arranged spaced apart from the second valve seat (22).

6. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, At the first position (A), the second distance (A2) between the pilot seal (40) and the second valve seat (22) is less than the first distance (A1) between the pilot seal (40) and the first valve seat (21).

7. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pilot seal (40) has at least one flowable through opening (49).

8. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pilot seal (40) has a spring section (43).

9. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The spring section (43) is arranged between the sealing section (42) and the retaining section (44).

10. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pilot seal (40) includes a disc-shaped flat spring element.

11. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pilot seal (40) is held on the valve housing (10) by at least one retaining device (45).

12. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The pilot valve chamber (20) is formed in the valve housing (10), and the first valve seat (21) and the second valve seat (22) are arranged on opposite sides of the pilot valve chamber (20).

13. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The valve housing (10) includes a wall section (30) having the first valve seat (21) and the through passage (17).

14. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The wall section (30) has at least one through hole (19) that forms a bypass around the first valve seat (21) to the at least one outlet.

15. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, A fail-safe seal (35) is provided on the side of the wall section (30) opposite to the first valve seat (21), which can close the through hole (19).

16. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The wall section (30) is formed by the valve housing cover component (31).

17. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The valve housing (10) has a second wall section (32) that includes the second valve seat (22) and / or a retaining area (15).

18. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The second wall section (32) includes an insert bushing.

19. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The valve housing (10) includes a main valve chamber (50) in which a main valve slide valve (54) is arranged, which is offset against the main valve seat (51) by means of a main valve spring (55).

20. The pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The main valve slide valve (54) is configured as a proportional slide valve.

21. A shock absorber having a pressure regulating valve (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

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