Valve block

Abstract

A valve block includes a hydraulic cylinder and one or more valves, where one or more adduction lines between the valves and the hydraulic cylinder are configured to allow the hydraulic cylinder to self-sweep. A hydraulic cylinder drives and guides a hollow piston, where a through bore of the piston is configured to receive a rod axially aligned with respect to a centerline of the hollow piston, where the hollow piston has a radial gap formed between an inner surface of the hollow piston and the rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydraulic actuator, which may be an actuator independent of a transmission, and more particularly to a valve block, which may combine a cylinder for a piston and a valve block in a single unit. Background Art

[0002] The vehicle may include a transmission with a transmission. The transmission may include a gearbox with a plurality of reduction gear groups, such as a gear group formed by a plurality of gears. To select a reduction gear group, a switching lever may be actuated by an actuator to drivingly couple the reduction gear group to an axle. The actuator may be double-acting and formed by a cylinder surrounding a piston. Hydraulic power may be converted into mechanical power via the piston. The actuator may be positioned in the transmission and accommodated by the transmission.

[0003] The machining of the cylinder and cavity on the housing can be complex. Therefore, a dedicated valve block can be used as a component separated from the actuator. This arrangement generally requires increasing the length of the adductor line used to supply fluid to the actuator. In some examples, increasing the adductor line length may cause air or other gas cavitation to form therein, which may affect the controllability of the system. The adductor line can be purged to remove the cavitation via a separate action from the actuation of the piston; however, purging interrupts and slows the actuation of the piston. The piston can also be rigidly connected to the shift rod, more like a single component rather than two components. When operating the fork, the tilting load to the shift rod may cause the piston to deviate from the cylinder, wherein the piston becomes approximately off-center and deviated relative to the central axis of the cylinder. The deviation may cause one or more seals and plugs of the cylinder to be subjected to uneven forces and contacts. This process may cause degradation and leakage of the actuating fluid from components of the cylinder, such as seals and / or plugs. In addition, the connection of the valve block to other parts of the transmission is also a possible source of actuating fluid leakage. Furthermore, it can be challenging to test the functionality of an actuator formed or machined into a transmission without assembling the transmission. Utility Model Content

[0004] The inventors herein have recognized these and other problems with such systems. In one example, at least some of these problems can be addressed by a valve block that includes: a hydraulic cylinder and one or more valves, wherein one or more adduction lines between the valves and the hydraulic cylinder are configured to allow the hydraulic cylinder to self-clean. The hydraulic cylinder can drive and guide a hollow piston, wherein a through-hole of the piston is configured to receive a rod axially aligned relative to a centerline of the hollow piston. The hollow piston has a radial gap formed between an inner surface of the hollow piston and the rod.

[0005] In one example, the hydraulic cylinder and valve are combined into the same block, called a valve block. The valve block can be independent of the transmission, wherein the valve block can be assembled and operated independently of the transmission. The adduction line for driving the piston of the cylinder body can be formed in the valve block. The piston can have a gap formed between the inner surface of the piston and the shift rod. Enclosing the hydraulic cylinder and fluidly connecting the valve to the same block can shorten the adduction line and reduce the number of sealing components used for sealing between the block and other parts of the transmission.

[0006] In addition, combining the hydraulic cylinder and the valve into a single valve block can improve the ease of installation and assembly of the valve block. In addition, the valve block, the piston and other components of the actuator can be tested independently without assembling other components of the housing and / or the transmission. Incorporating the adductor line into the valve block can reduce the chance of actuation fluid leakage and deterioration of the adductor line due to external forces. In addition, when the adductor line is incorporated into the valve block, the length and volume of the adductor line can be reduced relative to the adductor line outside the valve block and the hydraulic cylinder. Reducing the length and volume of the adductor line can allow the adductor line to be self-cleaning, removing air pockets formed in the adductor line with each piston actuation. The gap between the inner surface of the piston and the switching rod can reduce the piston from becoming deviated relative to the plug and seal of the cylinder body. With this gap, the switching rod can be guided without the piston, and can only be guided by components of the housing of the transmission such as the center plug. As the switching rod undergoes deflection due to external forces and becomes off-center from the central axis of the cylinder body, the piston may remain centered on the central axis. The clearance and constant centering of the piston may allow manufacturing tolerances to be relaxed, reducing manufacturing time and scrap while improving ease of assembly.

[0007] It should be understood that the above utility model content is provided to introduce a selection of concepts further described in the detailed description in a simplified form. This is not meant to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, and the scope of the claimed subject matter is uniquely defined by the claims following the detailed description. In addition, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any disadvantages noted above or in any part of this disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1 An example schematic diagram of a vehicle that may include a gearbox and a transmission is shown.

[0009] Figure 2A An example schematic diagram showing components of an actuator and shift lever within a gearbox and transmission.

[0010] Figure 2B An example schematic diagram showing components of an isolated actuator and a switching lever.

[0011] Figure 3A A first isometric view of the actuator is shown.

[0012] Figure 3B Shows Figure 3A A first isometric view of an actuator with internal passages and other components.

[0013] Figure 4 Shows from Figure 3A-3B The plane cut Figure 3A First cross-sectional view of the actuator.

[0014] Figure 5 Shows from Figure 4 Taken from a line in Figure 3A A second cross-sectional view of the actuator.

[0015] Fig. 6A Shows from Figure 5 A line cut from the Figure 3A A third cross-sectional view of the actuator.

[0016] Figure 6B Shown from a closer position Figure 5 A line cut from the middle and connected to the rod Figure 3A A fourth cross-sectional view of the actuator.

[0017] Figure 7 A second isometric view of a section of the piston is shown isolated and sectioned. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The present disclosure relates to an actuator that can be used to translate a rod or shaft such as a shift rod, such as a transmission actuator. The actuator can be hydraulic, wherein the actuator converts hydraulic power to mechanical power via a cylinder and a piston. The actuator can be double-acting, wherein an actuating fluid such as oil can act on either side of the piston to actuate the piston in a first direction or a second direction. The rod can be coupled to a plurality of sleeves. The sleeve can be coupled to a synchronizer or dog clutch for switching the ratio of a gear set or other form of reduction device group. The actuator can be located on an enclosure within the vehicle, such as a gearbox and / or a transmission.

[0019] The actuator may include a housing surrounding the piston, wherein the housing is separate from the housing or material of the transmission. The housing may form a cylinder positioned around the piston. The housing of the actuator may be a valve block, wherein the actuator and the valve block are combined into a single unit. The cylinder may be incorporated into a hole or orifice. The hole extends through the material and has two mouths on opposite surfaces of the valve block. The hole may have a generally cylinder-shaped shape and have multiple portions of different diameters. For example, the hole may be defined by an inner surface extending through the housing, an opening on a first outer surface of the housing, and an opening on an opposite second outer surface of the housing. The diameter of the hole may be variable over the entire length and may include multiple diameters for fitting various components such as seals to secure the cylinder.

[0020] The actuator can be stand-alone, where the actuator operates outside of the gearbox or transmission and can operate when not directly connected to the gearbox or transmission. The piston can be connected to the rod or shaft via a clamp that is similar to a ring shape and extends radially from the rod or shaft. The clamp can be called a circular clamp or a snap ring. The rod or shaft can be guided by a component of the housing of the transmission. The gap between the rod and the actuator allows the rod to be off-center while the piston can remain centered on the central axis. The gap and constant centering of the piston can allow manufacturing tolerances to be relaxed, reducing manufacturing time and waste, while improving the ease of assembly of the actuator.

[0021] A single or multiple valves can be used to change the pressure in the valve block and actuate the piston. Each of the valves can be a solenoid valve, such as a solenoid pressure proportional valve. Multiple passages can be formed and incorporated into the valve block. The passage can connect one or more valves to the cylinder and / or other passages. The valve block can be connected and fluidly connected to the actuator via a passage in the form of an adduction line. The adduction line can be a passage that delivers fluid to the cylinder of the actuator. The adduction line can have a volume that does not exceed ten percent of the volume obtained by the full stroke displacement of the actuator. Relative to the actuator displacement, the volume of the adduction line can allow the adduction line to self-clean air pockets, other gases or contaminants that may accumulate in the adduction line and the cylinder.

[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle is shown. The vehicle includes a transmission that may include an example gearbox of the present disclosure and components that the gearbox may affect, such as wheels. Figure 2A A schematic diagram showing the enclosure within the transmission and gearbox is shown. Figure 2A The schematic diagram of FIG. 1 also shows an actuator of the present disclosure, which can be driven and coupled to the first reduction gear group or the second reduction gear group. Figure 2B Shown with Figure 2A The transmission and gearbox isolate the actuator and drivingly coupled components. Figure 2BIn the embodiment, the actuator can be in a test state or another operating state in which the actuator can provide functions independently. Figure 3A An isometric view of an actuator formed by a valve block and a piston is shown. The valve block may serve as a housing for the piston and be fluidly coupled to a single or multiple valves. Figure 3B shows the internal components and features from Figure 3A An isometric view of an actuator, internal components and features such as passages for actuating fluid and holes into which a piston may be received. Figure 4 Shows from Figure 3A-3B The plane cut Figure 3A First cross-sectional view of the actuator. Figure 4 The internal components of the two valves are shown fluidly coupled to the valve block and the bore. Figure 5 Shows from Figure 4 Taken from a line in Figure 3A A second cross-sectional view of the actuator. Fig. 6A Shows from Figure 5 A line cut from the Figure 3A A third cross-sectional view of the actuator. Fig. 6A The gap between the rod and the actuator is shown, as well as the clip used to couple the rod to the actuator. Figure 6B Shown from a closer position Figure 5 A line cut from the middle and connected to the rod Figure 3A A fourth cross-sectional view of the actuator. Figure 7 A second isometric view of a section of the piston is shown isolated and sectioned.

[0023] It is also understood that the specific components and systems shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the utility model concepts defined herein. For the purpose of discussion, the drawings are described in a centralized manner. Therefore, similar elements may generally be indicated by the same reference numerals herein and may not be reintroduced. Figure 1 - Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of an example configuration with the relative positioning of the various components. Here, vertical is shown relative to the direction of gravity when the vehicle is positioned on flat ground. Figure 3A-Figure 7 Shown approximately to scale, but other relative dimensions may be used. As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the term "approximately" is interpreted to mean plus or minus five percent of the range.

[0024] also, Figure 1-Figure 7An example configuration with relative positioning of various components is shown. If shown as directly contacting or directly connected to each other, such elements can be referred to as directly contacting or directly connected, respectively, at least in one example. Similarly, at least in one example, elements shown as continuous or adjacent to each other can be respectively continuous or adjacent to each other. As an example, components placed as face-shared contact with each other can be referred to as face-shared contact. As another example, in at least one example, elements positioned to be spaced apart from each other with only a spacing space between them and no other components can be referred to as such. As another example, elements shown as above / below each other, on opposite sides of each other, or on the left / right of each other can be referred to as such relative to each other. In addition, as shown in the accompanying drawings, in at least one example, the topmost element or the point position of the element can be referred to as the "top" of the component, and the bottommost element or the point position of the element can be referred to as the "bottom" of the component. As used herein, top / bottom, upper / lower, above / below can be relative to the vertical axis of the accompanying drawings and used to describe the positioning of the elements of the accompanying drawings relative to each other. Therefore, in one example, the element shown as above other elements is vertically positioned above the other elements. As yet another example, the shapes of elements depicted in the accompanying drawings may be referred to as having such shapes (e.g., such as rounded, straight, planar, curved, rounded, chamfered, angled, etc.). Additionally, in at least one example, elements shown as intersecting each other may be referred to as intersecting elements or intersecting each other. Further, in one example, elements shown as being within another element or outside another element may be referred to as such. Additionally, components may be described as they relate to a coordinate system included in the accompanying drawings.

[0025] Go to Figure 1 , an example vehicle 5 is shown. The vehicle 5 may have a front end 100 and a rear end 102, and may be divided into generally symmetrical halves by a longitudinal axis 104.

[0026] In some examples, the vehicle 5 can be a hybrid vehicle, with multiple torque sources available to one or more wheels 55. In addition, the vehicle 5 can include only an internal combustion engine. In other examples, the vehicle 5 can be a fully electric vehicle, fully powered by an energy storage device such as a battery 58.

[0027] In the example shown, the vehicle 5 includes a prime mover 52. In one example, the prime mover 52 can be an engine, such as an internal combustion engine. For this example, the prime mover 52 can receive a fuel such as gasoline or diesel to burn, so that the chemical energy from the fuel is converted into rotational energy.

[0028] In other examples, the prime mover 52 can be an electric machine, which can be an electric motor, an electric motor / generator, or an electric motor / engine. The prime mover 52 can receive power from a battery 58, which is converted into rotational energy, such as torque, at a transmission 56. The transmission 56 can be a planetary transmission with a gear set, the gear set including at least one sun gear, which is surrounded by a plurality of planetary gears and meshes with the plurality of planetary gears. The torque can be delivered to wheels 55, which include a set of front wheels near the front end 100 of the vehicle 5 and a set of rear wheels near the rear end 102 of the vehicle 5. The prime mover 52 can also operate as a generator, for example during braking operation, to provide power to charge the battery 58.

[0029] The prime mover 52 provides rotational energy to the wheels of the vehicle 5 via the transmission 56. The wheels 55 may be drivingly coupled to the vehicle 5 and / or the transmission via the first axle 62 and the second axle 64. For this example, the vehicle 5 has a first axle 62 near the front end 100 and a second axle 64 near the rear end 102. For this example, the vehicle 5 has a prime mover 52 and a transmission 56 located at the front end 100 of the vehicle 5. The gearbox 70 is incorporated into the transmission 56, providing different gears to the transmission 56 for selection via a clutch. For this example, the prime mover 52 and the transmission 56 may provide rotational energy to the drive shaft 72 to transfer the rotational energy to the differential 68, so that the wheels 55 located at the rear end 102 rotate. It will be appreciated that in other examples, the rotational energy may also be alternatively provided to the wheels 55 located near the front end 100 of the vehicle 5. In addition, in other examples, such as when the vehicle 5 is configured as an all-wheel drive, each of the wheels 55 near the front end 100 and the wheels 55 near the rear end 102 may be coupled to a separate transmission. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the transmission 56 and / or the prime mover 52 may be positioned closer to the rear end 102 of the vehicle 5 than to the front end 100 .

[0030] The battery 58 may be located between the wheels 55 and closer to the rear end 102 of the vehicle 5 than the front end 100. For example, the battery 58 may be located under the rear passenger seats of the vehicle. In another example, the battery 58 may be located in the floor of the rear compartment of the vehicle, or may be integrated into the vehicle chassis. However, in other examples, the relative position of the battery 58 within the vehicle 5 may be different from that of the front end 100. Figure 1 The difference shown in .

[0031] Go to Figure 2A , shows the reference Figure 1Schematic diagram 200 of transmission 56 and gearbox 70 shown. Gearbox 70 can be located within and enclosed by transmission 56. In one example, gearbox 70 includes gear assembly 202. Gearbox 70 can be a multi-stage reduction gearbox with gear assembly 202, which acts as a system of multiple reduction gear groups. Gear assembly 202 can be formed by at least two reduction gear groups, which can reduce RPM and increase torque. Reduction gear groups can be referred to as stages herein. There may be a first stage 204 and a second stage 206. The first stage 204 and the second stage 206 may include gears, such as fixed gears.

[0032] The gearbox 70 may include a first shaft 208, a second shaft 210, and a third shaft 212. The first stage 204 may be supported by the first shaft 208 and the second shaft 210. The second stage 206 may be supported by the first shaft 208 and the third shaft 212. The first shaft 208 may serve as an input to the first stage 204 and the second stage 206. The second shaft 210 may serve as an output for the first stage 204. The third shaft 212 may serve as an output for the second stage 206. The first stage 204 may drive-couple the first shaft 208 to the second shaft 210. The second stage 206 may drive-couple the first shaft 208 to the third shaft 212. The first shaft 208 may be centered on a first axis 216. The second shaft 210 may be centered on a second axis 218. The third shaft 212 may be centered on a third axis 220. The first axis 216, the second axis 218, and the third axis 220 may be parallel to each other. The first stage 204 may traverse from the first axis 216 to the second axis 218. The second stage 206 can traverse the second axis 216 to the third axis 220. The first shaft 208 can drive the first input shaft to the gear assembly 202. For the example shown in the schematic diagram 200, the first input shaft can be the output shaft 214 of the prime mover 52. The output shaft 214 can be referred to as the prime mover output shaft 214 herein. For this example, the prime mover 52 can be a first motor, such as a first electric motor. However, other configurations of the gearbox are possible. For example, the first input shaft can be a shaft that is driveably coupled to the output shaft 214 or the output of other reduction gear groups. Shafts and other components that are driveably coupled to but not in direct contact can be represented by dashed lines 219.

[0033] The second shaft 210 and the third shaft 212 can be drivingly coupled to the first output shaft. For the example shown in the schematic diagram 200, the first output shaft can be the drive shaft 72. However, other configurations of the gearbox 70 are possible. For example, the first output shaft can be a shaft drivingly coupled to the drive shaft 72 or other reduction gear set.

[0034] The actuator 222 can be used to drivingly couple the first stage 204 or the second stage 206 to the first shaft 208. The actuator 222 can be drivingly coupled to the shift rod 224. The actuator 222 can translate the shift rod 224 along the fourth axis 226. When translated in a first direction, such as toward the front end 100, the shift rod 224 can drivingly couple the first stage 204 to the first shaft 208. When translated in a second direction, such as toward the rear end 102, the shift rod 224 can drivingly couple the second stage 206 to the first shaft 208. The shift rod 224 can be guided by a housing of the transmission 56 and / or the gearbox 70.

[0035] There may be a plurality of arms and joints used by the switching rod 224 and the actuator 222 to drivingly couple the reduction gear group. There may be at least one arm and two joints drivingly coupled to the switching rod 224 to select the reduction gear group. The number of arms and joints drivingly coupled to the switching rod 224 may depend on the number of reduction gear groups to be engaged. The first stage 204 may be drivingly coupled to the first shaft 208 via the first joint 240 and the first coupling 244. Similarly, the second stage 206 may be drivingly coupled to the first shaft 208 via the second joint 242 and the second coupling 246. The first joint 240 and the second joint 242 may be drivingly coupled to the switching rod 224 via the first arm 248 and the second arm 250, respectively.

[0036] The first stage 204 and the second stage 206 can be formed by a plurality of gears. Both the first stage 204 and the second stage 206 can each be formed by at least two gears. For example, the first stage 204 can be formed by a first gear 232 and a second gear 234. For this example, the second stage 206 can be formed by a third gear 236 and a fourth gear 238. The first coupling 244 and the second coupling 246 can be formed as or drivingly coupled to the first gear 232 and the second gear 234, respectively. The first engaging portion 240 and the first coupling 244 can form a clutch, such as a synchronizer clutch or a dog clutch. The second engaging portion 242 and the second coupling 246 can form a clutch, such as a synchronizer clutch or a dog clutch.

[0037] The actuator 222 may be mounted to the transmission 56 or a component of the transmission 56 such as the gearbox 70 by a plurality of fasteners 252 such as screws. At least two fasteners 252 may be used to mount the actuator 222 to the transmission 56 or a component of the transmission 56.

[0038] From the first arm 248 and the second arm 250, a portion 262 of the switch lever 224 can extend through the actuator and be located on the opposite side of the actuator. The portion 262 can be engaged for emergency manual operation. A neutral position can be selected on the portion 262 of the lever for towing purposes.

[0039] Figure 2B A schematic diagram 260 of the actuator 222, the shift lever 224, the first arm 248, the second arm 250, the first engagement portion 240, and the second engagement portion 242 isolated from the gearbox 70 and the transmission 56 is shown. The actuator 222 can be operated as an independent subsystem, disconnected from the transmission 56, wherein the actuator 222 and the shift lever 224 can be operated when not enclosed by, mounted to, and / or drivingly coupled to the transmission 56 or components of the transmission 56. Being independent allows the actuator 222 to be tested without being assembled into the transmission 56, such as in an end-of-line test.

[0040] A set of coordinate systems 301 is provided for Figure 3A-Figure 7 302. The coordinate system 301 indicates the y-axis, x-axis, and z-axis. In one example, the z-axis can be parallel to the direction of gravity, and the xy plane can be parallel to the horizontal plane on which the actuator 302 can rest. When referring to directions, the positive direction can refer to the direction of the arrows of the y-axis, x-axis, and z-axis, and the negative direction can refer to the opposite direction of the arrows of the y-axis, x-axis, and z-axis. The filled circles can represent arrows and axes facing toward the view or positive to the view. The unfilled circles can represent arrows and axes facing away from the view or negative to the view.

[0041] Go to Figure 3A , which shows a first view 300 of an actuator 302. The actuator 302 may be a reference Figure 2A-2B The actuator 302 may be an example of an actuator 222 as described above. Figure 1 - An independent block formed by separating the transmission and / or gearbox of the transmission 56 and / or gearbox 70 shown in Figure 2. The actuator 302 can be mounted or connected to the transmission and / or gearbox, and can be disassembled or disconnected from the transmission and / or gearbox. When operating, the actuator 302 can be enclosed by the transmission and / or gearbox and drivingly connected to the transmission and / or gearbox. When operating, the actuator 302 can be outside the transmission and / or gearbox, but drivingly connected to the transmission and / or gearbox. The actuator 302 can be installed in the transmission and / or gearbox and assembled via a minimum number of fasteners. There can be at least two fasteners, such as screws, for fastening the actuator 302 to the transmission and / or gearbox.

[0042] The actuator 302 is self-contained and can additionally operate independently of and disconnect from the transmission and / or gearbox when in operation. For example, when not enclosed or drivingly coupled to the transmission, the actuation of the piston 308 and the flow of actuating fluid through the valve can be tested by the actuator 302. In addition, the actuator 302 can be manually operated so that when placed in a neutral position, a component of the piston 308 attached to the actuator 302 can actuate the piston during operation. For example, the actuator 302 can be manually operated when towing the vehicle in which the actuator 302 is installed.

[0043] The actuator 302 may be formed of a valve block 304 positioned around a piston 308. The piston 308 may be hollow and fit into a hole 310. The piston 308 may function as a hollow piston. The valve block 304 may be independent, and it may be an independent block. As an independent block, the valve block 304 may not be formed from a larger component of the vehicle, such as a transmission housing. Likewise, when independent, the valve block 304 may provide functionality independent of a component in the vehicle, such as a transmission housing, that is separate from the actuator 302.

[0044] The piston 308 and the bore 310 may be centered about the axis 306. Components and devices coupled to the piston 308 may translate axially relative to the axis 306. Positioned about the piston and approximately centered about the axis 306 is a first plug 320. The first plug 320 may fit into the bore 310 and be positioned about the piston 308. The first plug 320 may be centered about the axis 306. The piston 308 may be driveably coupled to a rod or shaft.

[0045] In one example, the valve block 304 may be in a generally cubic shape. In another example, the valve block 304 may be in a generally long rectangular prism shape. For a small volume of the valve block 304, when semi-finished, it may be a prism cut from a rod. For a large volume, the valve block 304 may be cast into an irregular shape to minimize the amount of material. All other features of the actuator 302 may be established without a regular shape for the valve block 304.

[0046] For an example of an embodiment, the valve block can have a first surface 312, a second surface 314, and a third surface 316 visible from the first view 300. The first surface 312 can be located on the top of the valve block 304. The fourth surface 318 can be formed at the bottom of the valve block 304. Both the first surface 312 and the fourth surface 318 can be horizontal, where, for example, the first surface 312 and the fourth surface 318 can be parallel to a plane formed by the x-axis and the y-axis. The second surface 314 and the third surface 316 can be between the first surface 312 and the fourth surface 318. The second surface 314 and the third surface 316 can be vertical, where the second surface 314 and the third surface 316 can be perpendicular to the plane formed by the x-axis and the y-axis.

[0047] The valve block 304 may use one or more valves to actuate the actuator 302. When the one or more valves actuate the actuator 302, the piston 308 may be driven to slide axially relative to the axis 306. The valve block 304 may be driven by two or more three-way valves. If a three-way valve is used, at least two three-way valves may be fluidly coupled to the valve block 304 and the actuator 302 and drive the valve block 304 and the actuator 302. In one example, the first valve 322 and the second valve 324 may be fluidly coupled to the valve block 304 via an opening in the fourth surface 318. The first valve 322 and the second valve 324 are schematically shown and may have different sizes and features than those shown in view 300. The first valve 322 and the second valve 324 may be solenoid valves, such as solenoid pressure proportional valves, which use an electromagnet to actuate and change the pressure of the fluid going to the valve block 304. The first valve 322 may have the same size and model as the second valve 324. For this example, the first valve 322 and the second valve 324 may be three-way valves.

[0048] For an alternative configuration of the actuator 302, the valve block 304 may be driven by one or more four-way valves. If a four-way valve is used, there is at least a single four-way valve that may be fluidly coupled to and drive the valve block 304 and the actuator 302. For this example, the valve may be a solenoid valve, such as a solenoid pressure proportional valve.

[0049] The bore 310 may have a first mouth 326 formed by a surface. For one example, the surface may be the second surface 314. A center spigot of a transmission, such as the transmission 56, may be positioned concentric with the bore 310. The bore 310 may have a first mouth 326 formed by the second surface 314. The first mouth 326 may be generally circular with a first diameter 327. The first diameter 327 may be a first diameter of the bore 310. A fluid passage fluidly coupled to the bore 310 may be asymmetrically positioned throughout the material of the valve block 304. The bore 310 may have a diameter that varies at different axial locations relative to the axis 306. The bore 310 may be segmented into a plurality of portions that are conical and cylindrical.

[0050] The hollow portion of the piston 308 may include a hole 328. The hole 328 may be a through hole formed through the piston 308. The hole 328 may be concentric with the piston 308 and approximately centered on the axis 306. The axis 306 may be colinear with the centerline of the hole 328 and the piston 308. The hole 328 may be a hollow cavity positioned to surround and support the rod. The hole 328 may be divided into a plurality of sections that are cylindrical.

[0051] The first hole 332 and the second hole 334 can be formed in the material of the valve block 304. For an example of an embodiment, the first hole 332 and the second hole 334 can be positioned in the third surface 316. The first hole 332 and the second hole 334 extend through the material of the valve block 304 and can be connected to a plurality of passages enclosed by the valve block 304. The first hole 332 can be used to supply pressure to components of the actuator such as the piston 308 and passages of the valve block 304. The first hole 332 can be fluidly connected to a pressure source outside the valve block 304. The first hole 332 can serve as a supply of pressure to the first valve 322 and the second valve 324. The second hole 334 can be used to supply an actuating fluid, such as oil, to the first valve 322 and the second valve 324. The second hole 334 can be fluidly connected to a reservoir of the actuating fluid outside the valve block 304. The second hole 334 can supply the actuating fluid to components of the actuator 302 such as the piston 308 and passages of the valve block 304.

[0052] The third hole 336 and the fourth hole 338 may be formed on the surface of the valve block 304. For an example of an embodiment, the third hole 336 and the fourth hole 338 may be formed on the second surface 314. The third hole 336 and the fourth hole 338 may be used to mount the valve block 304 to a component of the vehicle such as the transmission 56 or the gearbox 70, see Figure 1 -Figure 2.

[0053] The actuator 302 may be divided by a plane 360. The cross-sectional view taken on the plane 360 ​​is referred to as Figure 4 Explain and describe in more detail.

[0054] Go to Figure 3B , which shows a first view 300 of an actuator 302 with internal passages, components, and other features enclosed by a valve block 304. Features enclosed by the valve block 304 may be represented by dashed lines.

[0055] The hole 310 may extend through the material of the valve block 304 between two surfaces on opposite sides of the valve block 304. For an example of an embodiment, the hole 310 may extend from the second surface 314 to the surface of the valve block 304 on the opposite side of the plane 360. The hole 310 may be formed into the valve block 304 via drilling. For some embodiments, the hole 310 may be a blind hole.

[0056] The third hole 336 and the fourth hole 338 can extend from the second surface 314 through the material of the valve block 304 to the surface on the opposite side of the plane 360 ​​from the second surface 314. A component such as a rod or a fastener can be inserted into the third hole 336 and / or the fourth hole 338 to mount the valve block 304 to a component or feature of a transmission, a gearbox, or other component of a vehicle. The transmission can be the transmission 56 and the vehicle can be the vehicle 5, reference Figure 1 - FIG. 2 . For this example, there may be at least two fasteners, each complementary to the third hole 336 and / or the fourth hole 338 .

[0057] The valve block 304 may enclose a plurality of passages that may serve as fluid passages and be used to introduce an actuating fluid, such as oil, to different areas of the valve block 304. Such fluid passages may include a second passage 372, a third passage 374, a fourth passage 376, and a fifth passage 378. A plurality of caps 382 may be used to seal passages that may be fluidly coupled to a surface of the valve block 304, such as the second passage 372, the third passage 374, the fourth passage 376, and the fifth passage 378.

[0058] One or more adduction lines between the valve and the hydraulic cylinder are configured to allow the hydraulic cylinder to self-clean. The adduction lines may include all passages or pathways between the hydraulic cylinder that are fluidly coupled to the regulating port of the valve cavity and the bore 310. Generally, in order to be self-cleaning, the adduction lines may be no more than ten percent of the volume resulting from the full stroke displacement of the piston 308. For example, the adduction lines such as the second passage 372, the third passage 374, etc. may be no more than ten percent of the volume displaced by the actuator to allow the bore 310 and the adduction lines to self-clean for air or other gases that may form bubbles or cavitation.

[0059] Go to Figure 4 , which shows a cross-sectional view 400 of the actuator 302. The cross-sectional view 400 can be referred to Figure 3BThe section is taken on plane 360. The cross-sectional view 400 may be viewed along the axis 306 from a side of the actuator 302 opposite the second surface 314.

[0060] The cross-sectional view 400 shows that the bore 310 can have an inner surface 410. The inner surface 410 can be generally cylindrical at various sections and centered on the axis 306. There can be a gap 412 between the inner surface 410 and the piston 308. The gap 412 can be a radial gap positioned radially around the piston 308 relative to the axis 306.

[0061] The first line 414 can divide the bore 310 and the piston 308 into substantially symmetrical halves. The first line 414 can be counter axial and intersect the axis 306. The cross-sectional view taken on the line 414 is referenced Figure 5 More detailed instructions and descriptions. For this example, Figure 5 The cross-sectional view of may be taken on a plane formed on line 414 and parallel to a plane formed by the x-axis and the y-axis.

[0062] The cross-sectional view 400 shows that the valve block 304 has a fifth surface 416 opposite the third surface 316 .

[0063] A single or multiple valve cavities may be machined or formed on the same surface of the valve block 304. A single or multiple valve cavities of the block 304 may be fluidly coupled to the first hole 332 and the second hole 334. The number of valve cavities may be limited by the number of valves used in the embodiment. For embodiments using a four-way valve, there may be at least one valve cavity. For embodiments using multiple three-way valves, there may be at least two cavities.

[0064] For an example of an embodiment of the valve block 304, the valve block 304 can incorporate a first valve cavity 418 and a second valve cavity 420 that can be fluidly coupled to a valve, such as the valve block 304 shown in FIG. Figure 3A-3B The first valve 322 and the second valve 324 of the first valve chamber 418 and the second valve chamber 420 may each have a first port fluidly coupled to the first hole 332 for supplying actuating fluid from the tank portion. The first valve chamber 418 and the second valve chamber 420 may each have a second port fluidly and / or pneumatically coupled to the second hole 334 for pressure from a pressure supply portion. For an example of an embodiment, the first valve chamber 418 may be approximately centered around the first axis 406a. For this example, the second valve chamber 420 may be centered around the second axis 406b.

[0065] The cross-sectional view 400 shows that the second passage 372 and the third passage 374 can be in fluid communication with the first valve 322 via the sixth passage 422. The bore 310 can be in fluid communication with and fluidly coupled to the first valve cavity 418 via the second passage 372 and the sixth passage 422. The sixth passage 422 can serve as a fluid passage. The second passage 372 and the sixth passage 422 can serve as an adduction line.

[0066] The cross-sectional view 400 shows that the fifth passage 378 and the eighth passage 428 can be in fluid communication with the second valve cavity 420 via the seventh passage 424. The hole 310 can be in fluid communication with the second valve cavity 420 via the eighth passage 428 and the seventh passage 424 and be fluidly coupled to the second valve cavity 420. The seventh passage 424 and the eighth passage 428 can serve as fluid passages. The seventh passage 424 and the eighth passage 428 can serve as adduction lines.

[0067] For an example of one embodiment, the first valve cavity 418 may be formed by a first port 442, a first section 444, a second section 446, and a mouth 448. For an example of a second embodiment, the second valve cavity 420 may be formed by a first port 452, a first section 454, a second section 456, and a mouth 458. The first port 442 and the first port 452 may be fluidly coupled to the sixth passage 422 and the seventh passage 424, respectively. The first port 442 and the first port 452 may each serve as a regulating port for the first valve cavity 418 and the second valve cavity 420, respectively. The first section 444 and the first section 454 may each be fluidly coupled to the second port. The second port of the first section 444 may fluidly couple the first valve cavity 418 to the hole 332 and the supply of pressure. The second port of the first section 454 may fluidly couple the second valve cavity 420 to the hole 332 and the supply of pressure. The second section 446 and the second section 456 may each be fluidly coupled to the third port. The third port of the second section 446 can fluidly couple the first valve cavity 418 to the second bore 334 and a supply of actuating fluid. The third port of the second section 456 can fluidly couple the second valve cavity 420 to the second bore 334 and a supply of actuating fluid. Valves can be inserted into the first valve cavity 418 and the second valve cavity 420 via mouths 448 and 458, respectively.

[0068] One or more adduction lines between the valve and the hydraulic cylinder are configured to allow the hydraulic cylinder to self-clean for air or other gases that may form bubbles or cavitation. Generally, to be self-cleaning, the adduction lines may be no more than ten percent of the volume of the hydraulic cylinder's full stroke displacement. For example, the second passage, the sixth passage 422, the seventh passage 424, the eighth passage 428, etc. may be no more than ten percent of the volume of the hydraulic cylinder formed by the hole 310 to allow the hole 310 and the adduction lines to be self-cleaning.

[0069] For an example of one embodiment, the adduction line shown in the cross-sectional view 400 includes the second passage 372 and the sixth passage 422, the seventh passage 424, and the eighth passage 428. The second passage 372 and the sixth passage 422 can fluidly couple the bore 310 and the first valve cavity 418. The second passage 372 and the sixth passage 422 can work in conjunction to deliver and / or remove fluid from the bore 310 and the first valve cavity 418. The seventh passage 424 and the eighth passage 428 can fluidly couple the bore 310 and the second valve cavity 420. The seventh passage 424 and the eighth passage 428 deliver and remove fluid from the bore 310 and the second valve cavity 420.

[0070] Go to Figure 5 , which shows a second cross-sectional view 500 of the actuator 302. The second cross-sectional view 500 can be taken on line 414, referring to Figure 4 A second cross-sectional view 500 may be viewed from below line 414 to the vertical axis. For this example, below may be referenced to the z-axis. View 500 shows line 504 that is co-linear with axis 306. The cross-sectional view taken on line 504 may be referenced to Fig. 6A Explain and describe in more detail.

[0071] The second cross-sectional view 500 shows that the valve block 304 has a sixth surface 514 opposite the second surface 314. The bore 310 can have a first length 508, and the piston 308 can have a second length 510. The bore 328 can extend the second length 510 and pass through the material of the piston 308. The first length 508 and the second length 510 can be generally axial relative to the axis 306.

[0072] The hole 310 has multiple diameters, such as the first diameter 327 of the first mouth 326 and the fourth diameter 530 of the second mouth 526. The hole 310 can have a diameter of the second diameter 516, the third diameter 518, or a distance (diameter distance) between the second diameter 516 and the third diameter 518. The first diameter 327 and the fourth diameter 530 can be the same distance. The second diameter 516 and the third diameter 518 can be smaller than the first diameter 327 and the fourth diameter 530. The second diameter 516 can be larger than the third diameter 518.

[0073] The second nozzle 526 can be located on the opposite side of the plane 360 ​​and mirror the first nozzle 326 with respect to the plane 360. The second nozzle 526 can have substantially the same size as the first nozzle 326. The first diameter 327 can mirror the fourth diameter 530 with respect to the plane 360. The first diameter 327 of the first nozzle 326 and the fourth diameter 530 of the second nozzle 526 can be variable, varying distances radially relative to the axis 306 and at different points along the axis 306. At locations further axially away from the plane 360 ​​relative to the axis 306, the first diameter 327 can increase in distance. At locations further axially away from the plane 360 ​​relative to the axis 306, the fourth diameter 530 can increase in distance. The variation in distances of the first diameter 327 and the fourth diameter 530 can form surfaces partially enclosed by and formed by the first nozzle 326 and the second nozzle 526, respectively. The surfaces can be concave and radial relative to the axis 306.

[0074] The second plug 522 may be fitted to the bore 310 and positioned around the piston 308. The second plug 522 may be centered on the axis 306 and on a side of the plane 360 ​​opposite the second plug 522. For an example of an embodiment, either the first plug 320 or the second plug 522 may be integrated with the valve block 304. The aforementioned plugs may be mounted to the valve block 304. For an alternative embodiment of the actuator 302, the bore 310 may be a blind hole with a smaller diameter that does not incorporate a plug and only incorporates a sealing element.

[0075] The piston 308 can have an outer surface 531 and an inner surface 532. The outer surface 531 and the inner surface 532 can be curved and circumferentially surround the axis 306. The piston 308 can have an inner diameter 528.

[0076] The bore 310 forms a cylindrical portion that can serve as a hydraulic cylinder for the piston 308. The cylindrical portion may be referred to herein as a cylinder body 534. The cylinder body 534 may drive and guide the piston 308 to slide axially relative to the axis 306. The first mouth 326 and the second mouth 526 may each form a passage to the interior, or an internal passage, through the valve block 304 to the cylinder body 534. The cylinder body 534 may have a third diameter 518.

[0077] The ring 536 may extend radially from the outer surface 531 of the piston 308 relative to the axis 306. There may be a plurality of sealing members positioned around the piston 308, forming a seal between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410.

[0078] The ring 536 may have a groove 538 that supports the first seal 540. The groove 538 extends radially around the ring 536 relative to the axis 306 and extends into the material of the ring 536. When surrounding and supported by the groove 538, the first seal 540 may be pressed against the inner surface 410 of the cylinder 534 and form a seal against the inner surface 410 of the cylinder 534. The seal formed between the inner surface 410 and the seal 540 may be fluid-tight.

[0079] Relative to axis 306, first plug 320 may be positioned between first mouth 326 and cylinder 534. Relative to axis 306, second plug 522 may be positioned between second mouth 526 and cylinder 534. First plug 320 and second plug 522 may be axisymmetric relative to axis 306.

[0080] The ring 536 may be centrally located and serve as a center ring relative to the axis 306 and the cylinder 534. The ring 536 may divide the cylinder 534 into a first chamber 541a and a second chamber 541b. The first chamber 541a and the second chamber 541b may serve as pressure chambers. There may be one or more pressure chambers formed between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410. When the piston 308 is driven axially toward the first plug 320 relative to the axis 306 in a full stroke, the first chamber 541a may be completely reduced, and there may be only a second pressure chamber in the form of the second chamber 541b. When the piston 308 is driven axially toward the second plug 522 relative to the axis 306 in a full stroke, the second chamber 541b may be completely reduced, and there may be only a first pressure chamber in the form of the first chamber 541a. The combined volume of the first chamber 541a and the second chamber 541b may be approximately the total volume resulting from the displacement of the piston 308 in a full stroke.

[0081] The actuator 302 may be of a double-acting type, wherein the actuating fluid may act on either side of the ring 536 to drive the piston 308. There may be at least a first passage formed on opposite sides of the ring 536 that is fluidly coupled to the first pressure chamber and a second passage that is fluidly coupled to the second pressure chamber. For an example of an embodiment, the first chamber 541a may be fluidly coupled to the fourth passage 376 and the eighth passage 428. For this example, the second chamber 541b may be fluidly coupled to the second passage 372. In addition, there may be another passage on the opposite side of the plane formed on the axis 306 with respect to the z-axis to the second passage 372. The aforementioned passage may be fluidly coupled to the second chamber 541b. The actuating fluid may be pumped into the first chamber 541a via the eighth passage 428 and removed from the first chamber 541a. The actuating fluid may be pumped into the second chamber 541b via the second passage 372 and removed from the second chamber 541b. The second passage 372 and the eighth passage 428 may serve as adduction lines for delivering and / or removing fluid to translate the piston 308 in a direction generally co-linear with the axis 306 .

[0082] For example, when actuating fluid is pumped to increase pressure to first chamber 541a, ring 536 and piston 308 may translate in a first direction toward second plug 522. As piston 308 translates in the first direction, actuating fluid may be removed from second chamber 541b via second passage 372.

[0083] For another example, when pumping actuating fluid and / or increasing pressure to the second chamber 541b, the ring 536 and the piston 308 can translate in the second direction toward the first plug 320. As the piston 308 translates in the first direction, the actuating fluid can be removed from the second chamber 541b via the eighth passage 428.

[0084] For these examples, the eighth passage 428 can function as a first passage fluidly coupled to the first chamber 541a, and the second passage 372 can function as a second passage fluidly coupled to the second chamber 541b.

[0085] The second seal 542, the third seal 544, and the fourth seal 546 can be positioned to radially surround the piston 308 relative to the axis 306. The second seal 542 can be positioned to surround the first groove 552 of the first plug 320 and be supported by the first groove 552 of the first plug 320. The third seal 544 can be positioned to surround the second groove 554 of the second plug 522 and be supported by the second groove 554 of the second plug 522. The second seal 542 and the third seal 544 can be pressed against the inner surface 410 and form a seal against the inner surface 410. The second seal 542 and the first plug 320 can collectively serve as a sealing member between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410. The third seal 544 and the second plug 522 can collectively serve as a sealing member between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410. The fourth seal 546 can be partially enclosed and supported by the third groove 556. The first groove 552 and the second groove 554 may be positioned to radially surround the first plug 320 and the second plug 522, respectively, relative to the axis 306. The third groove 556 extends radially into the inner surface 410 relative to the axis 306. The second seal 542, the third seal 544, and the fourth seal 546 may be elastomeric seals and annular seals, such as O-ring seals.

[0086] The fifth seal 548 and the sixth seal 550 can be positioned to radially surround the piston 308 relative to the axis 306. The fifth seal 548 and the sixth seal 550 can each be a V-shaped seal. The fifth seal 548 can be partially enclosed and supported by the fourth groove 558a. The sixth seal 550 can be partially enclosed and supported by the fifth groove 558b. The fourth groove 558a can extend radially into the first plug 320 relative to the axis 306 and be partially enclosed by the first plug 320. The fifth groove 558b can extend radially into the second plug 522 relative to the axis 306 and be partially enclosed by the second plug 522. The second seal 542, the fifth seal 548 and the first plug 320 can collectively serve as a sealing member between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410. The third seal 544 , the sixth seal 550 , and the second plug 522 may collectively serve as a seal between the piston 308 and the inner surface 410 .

[0087] The first guide ring 560 and the second guide ring 562 may be positioned around the piston 308. The first guide ring 560 may be partially enclosed and supported by the sixth groove 564. The second guide ring 562 may be partially enclosed and supported by the seventh groove 566. The first guide ring 560 and the second guide ring 562 may be in surface-sharing contact with the piston 308. The first guide ring 560 and the second guide ring 562 may prevent direct contact between the outer surface 531 and the surfaces of the first plug 320 and the second plug 522, respectively. The sixth groove 564 may extend radially into the first plug 320 relative to the axis 306 and be partially enclosed by the first plug 320. The seventh groove 566 may extend radially into the second plug 522 relative to the axis 306 and be partially enclosed by the second plug 522.

[0088] The fourth seal 546, the fifth seal 548, and the sixth seal 550 may be in surface-common contact with the outer surface 531, pressed against the outer surface 531, and form a seal with the outer surface 531. The first plug 320 and the second seal 542 and the fifth seal 548 may prevent the actuating fluid from leaking axially relative to the axis 306, through the first plug 320 and into the first mouth 326. The second plug 522 and the third seal 544 and the sixth seal 550 may prevent the actuating fluid from leaking axially relative to the axis 306 into the area between the second plug 522 and the fourth seal 546.

[0089] The piston 308 can have a third mouth 568a and a fourth mouth 568b open to the bore 328. The third mouth 568a and the fourth mouth 568b can have the same size and features. In one example, the third mouth 568a can be positioned closest to the second surface 314. The third mouth 568a can extend approximately axially relative to the axis 306, at a distance 570 from the second surface 314 and the first mouth 326. For this example, the fourth mouth 568b can be positioned closest to the sixth surface 514. Relative to the axis 306, the fourth seal 546 and the second mouth 526 can be positioned to surround the fourth mouth 568b approximately radially. The fourth seal 546 can be in surface-sharing contact with a portion of the outer surface 531 surrounding the fourth mouth 568b.

[0090] The first plug 320 and the second plug 522 may have a first surface 572 and a second surface 574, respectively, that recede from the inner surface 410 of the hole 310 toward the axis 306. The first surface 572 and the second surface 574 may be at an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees, such as 45 degrees, to the inner surface 410. The material of the first plug 320 defined by the first surface 572 may have a variable diameter 576, wherein the diameter may increase near the first groove 552 relative to the axis 306 and decrease away from the first groove 552. The material of the second plug 522 defined by the second surface 574 may have a variable diameter 578, wherein the diameter may increase near the second groove 554 relative to the axis 306 and decrease away from the second groove 552.

[0091] The first plug 320 may have a first land 580 positioned axially between the first groove 552 and the first mouth 326 relative to the axis 306. The second plug 522 may have a second land 582 positioned axially between the second groove 554 and the second mouth 526 relative to the axis 306. The first land 580 may be exposed to air. The second land 582 may face the fourth seal 546 and be sealed from air by the fourth seal 546. The first land 580 may fit into the eighth groove 584. The second land 582 may fit into the ninth groove 586. The eighth groove 584 and the ninth groove 586 may extend radially into the inner surface 410 of the hole 310 relative to the axis 306. The first land 580 may be where the diameter 576 of the first plug 320 is largest. The second land 582 may be where the diameter 578 of the second plug 522 is largest. The eighth groove 584 and the ninth groove 586 may have the same size, such as the same diameter. The first platform 580 and the eighth groove 584 may prevent the first plug 320 from falling off from the hole 310 or moving in the axial direction relative to the axis 306 without deliberate force. The second platform 582 and the ninth groove 586 may prevent the second plug 522 from falling off from the hole 310 or moving in the axial direction relative to the axis 306 without deliberate force.

[0092] Go to Fig. 6A , which shows the actuator 302 fixed to the rod 610 in a third cross-sectional view 600. The third cross-sectional view 600 can be taken on line 504, with reference to Figure 5 For this example, the third cross-sectional view may be taken on a plane formed on line 504 and parallel to a plane formed by the y-axis and the z-axis. Actuator 302 and rod 610 may be positioned between first side 602 and second side 604. For example, second surface 314 may be positioned closest to first side 602, and sixth surface 514 may be positioned closest to second side 604.

[0093] The piston 308 can receive a rod 610, wherein the rod 610 can be partially enclosed by the piston 308 and fixed to the piston 308. The rod 610 can have a first end 612 and a second end 614. The actuator 302 and the piston 308 can have a pass-through design so that the rod 610 can extend through the hole 328. When the rod 610 is received in the hole 328, the first end 612 and the second end 614 can each protrude from opposite sides of the piston 308 and extend beyond opposite sides of the piston 308. When the rod 610 is received in the hole 328 and the piston 308 is received in the valve block 304, the first end 612 and the second end 614 can each protrude from opposite sides of the valve block 304 and extend beyond opposite sides of the valve block 304. The pass-through design of the actuator 302 and the piston 308 allows the first end 612, the second end 614, and other portions of the rod 610 not enclosed by the actuator 302 to be acted upon by components external to the actuator 302. The pass-through design of the actuator 302 can allow manual operation of the rod 610 from at least one end. In an example of an embodiment, the first end 612 can extend from the fourth nozzle 568b and the second nozzle 526 toward the second side 604. For this example, the second end 614 can extend from the third nozzle 568a and the first nozzle 326 toward the second side 604.

[0094] The first end 612 can face and extend toward and be enclosed by a transmission such as the transmission 56. The first end 612 can be concentric with a center plug that is a component of the transmission. The center plug of a transmission such as the transmission 56 can approximately center the rod 610 around the axis 306. The centerline of the rod 610 can be approximately colinear and centered with the centerline of the hole 328 and the piston 308. The center plug can be positioned to radially surround the rod 610 on a portion of the first end 612. It can act on the second end 614 for emergency manual operation, such as for towing purposes. The second end 614 can be manually operated by a component external to the actuator 302 and is drivingly connected to a component external to the actuator 302.

[0095] The rod 610 may have a portion inserted into and extending through the hole 328. The rod 610 may be substantially centered on the axis 306 and have a portion passing through the valve block 304. The axis 306 may be colinear with the centerline of the rod 610. The rod 610 may be a switching rod, such as a reference Figure 2A-2B The rod 610 may not be guided by the piston 308. The rod 610 may be guided only by the housing and components of the transmission, such as reference Figure 1 - The transmission 56 of FIG. 2 .

[0096] A plurality of fasteners 620 may be used to fasten the second valve 324 to the valve block 304. The fasteners 620 or fasteners of the same size may be used to fasten the first valve 322 to the valve block 304. At least one fastener 620 may be used to fasten the first valve 322 and / or the second valve 324 to the fourth surface 318. Each fastener 620 may be inserted through a first complementary hole 623 in a platform 624. There may be a plurality of first complementary holes 623 in each platform 624. There may be a plurality of platforms 624, each of which may be formed on the first valve 322 and / or the second valve 324. Each fastener 620 may be inserted through the first complementary hole 623 into a plurality of second complementary holes 628 in the surface of the valve block 304. For an example of an embodiment, there may be a plurality of second complementary holes 628 extending perpendicular to and through the fourth surface 318. The first complementary holes 623 and the second complementary holes 628 may have threaded portions that are complementary to the threaded portions formed around the fastener 620.

[0097] A gap 630 may be formed between the rod 610 and the inner surface 532 of the piston 308. The gap 630 may be a radial gap positioned radially about the rod 610 relative to the axis 306. The design of the actuator 302 and the piston 308 allows a fastening device to be positioned between the rod 610 and the piston 308 so that the rod 610 can be fastened to the piston 308. The fastening device may prevent the actuator 302 and the piston 308 from sliding axially about the rod 610 relative to the axis 306. Likewise, features of the rod 610, the actuator 302, and the piston 308 may fasten the rod 610 to the piston 308. Furthermore, these features may prevent the actuator 302 and the piston 308 from sliding axially about the rod 610 relative to the axis 306.

[0098] For example, the piston 308 may have a surface near the second end 614, against which the fastener may abut. Likewise, the rod 610 may be modified to include a groove to support the fastener. A clamp, referred to herein as a snap ring 622, may serve as the fastener described above for fixing one end of the rod 610. The snap ring 622 may be substantially circular and annular in shape. The snap ring 622 may fasten the piston 308 to the rod 610. The snap ring 622 may be positioned around the groove 626 and coupled to the groove 626 so that the snap ring 622 may extend radially from the groove 626 relative to the axis 306. The snap ring 622 and the groove 626 may be positioned around one end of the rod 610. For an example of an embodiment, the snap ring 622 and the groove 626 may be positioned around the second end 614 and protrude from the second end 614.

[0099] When the rod 610 is concentric with the hole 328 of the piston 308, the gap 630 can be at least the first minimum distance. For an example of an embodiment, when the rod 610 is concentric with the hole 328 of the piston 308, the gap 630 can be at least the first minimum distance of 0.5 mm. When offset and not concentric with the hole 328, the gap 630 can be a second minimum distance. For an example of an embodiment, when the rod 610 is not concentric with the hole, the gap 630 can be no less than a distance of 0.1 mm.

[0100] The gap 630 can allow the piston 308 to remain aligned with the cylinder 534 so that the piston 308 remains concentric with the cylinder 534 and centered about the axis 306. If the rod 610 becomes substantially offset from the axis 306, the piston 308 can remain aligned with the cylinder 534. Deflection or other uneven forces that may affect the position of the rod 610 may not affect the position of the cylinder 534 relative to the axis 306. The gap 630 can allow the rod 610 to move out of alignment without affecting the alignment of the piston 308 relative to the axis 306. Forces that affect the rod 610, such as deflection, may not apply or generate any radial loads on the piston 308, even if the rod 610 moves out of alignment. The gap 630 can allow the dimensional tolerances of the rod 610, the piston 308, and other components of the actuator 302 to be relaxed.

[0101] In an example of an embodiment, the rod 610 may include a first portion 632, a second portion 634, a third portion 636, a fourth portion 638, and a fifth portion 640. The first portion 632 may be partially enclosed by the valve block 304. The piston 308 may be positioned around the first portion 632 and circumferentially surround the first portion 632. The second portion 634, the third portion 636, and the fourth portion 638 may extend from the first portion 632 and away from the fourth seal 546 and the second mouth 526. The second portion 634, the third portion 636, and the fourth portion 638 may extend generally axially relative to the axis 306 toward the second side 604. The second portion 634, the third portion 636, and the fourth portion 638 may be formed into the first end 612. The fifth portion 640 may extend from the first portion 632 and away from the retaining ring 622. The fifth portion 640 may extend generally axially relative to the axis 306 toward the first side 602. The fifth portion 640 may be formed into the second end 614.

[0102] A hole 644 can be formed from the fourth portion 638 and is generally centered on the axis 306. The hole 644 can be used to couple the rod 610 to a component of the transmission such as an arm, such as a shift fork. A plurality of holes 646 can be formed from the third portion 636. The holes 646 can extend through the material of the third portion 636 and have a length 648 that is generally perpendicular to the axis 306. The holes 646 can accommodate an arm or an accessory device such as a shift fork for switching gears or a speed reducer.

[0103] The first portion 632 can have a first diameter 652. The second portion 634 can have a second diameter 654. The second diameter 654 can be greater than the first diameter 652. The difference in diameter between the first portion 632 and the second portion 634 can create a shoulder 656. The shoulder 656 can abut a surface 658 of the piston 308. The shoulder 656 can prevent the second portion 634 from moving axially relative to the axis 306, toward the first side 602 past the surface 658. The surface 658 can extend radially from the bore 328 and be substantially perpendicular relative to the axis 306.

[0104] The central plug of the transmission can be positioned radially between the second mouth 526 and the second portion 634 relative to the axis 306. The central axis of the rod 610 and the central axis of the hollow piston 308 can be approximately concentric with the central plug, where a difference of approximately + / - 0.2 mm can be specified for one example. The central plug can be in surface-sharing contact with the second mouth 526 and be concentric with the second mouth 526. For an example of an embodiment, the third seal can form a seal against the central plug.

[0105] The snap ring 622 can abut against a surface 660 of the piston 308. The surface 660 can extend radially from the hole 328 and be generally perpendicular relative to the axis 306. The surface 658 and the surface 660 can have approximately the same size that is a mirror image of the plane 360. The groove 626 can form a shoulder for the snap ring 622 to abut against. When supported and coupled by the groove 626, the snap ring 622 can abut against the surface 660 of the piston 308. The snap ring 622 can prevent the actuator 302 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 about the rod 610 in the direction of the first side 602. Similarly, the groove 626 can serve as an abutment for the snap ring 622 to prevent the rod 610 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 from the hole 328 toward the first side 602. The snap ring 622 and the surface 660 can also prevent the rod 610 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 from the hole 328 toward the second side 604.

[0106] When the snap ring 622 abuts against the surface 660 and the shoulder 656 abuts against the surface 658, the rod 610 can be fastened to the piston 308. When fastened, the rod 610 and the piston 308 can act as a single unit. The snap ring 622 can prevent the piston 308 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 over the surface of the rod 610 through the snap ring 622 and toward the second end 614. The snap ring 622 can also prevent the rod 610 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 toward the second side 604 and independently of the piston 308. Similarly, the shoulder 656 can prevent the piston 308 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 over the surface of the rod 610 through the shoulder 656 and toward the second end 614. The shoulder 656 can also prevent the rod 610 from sliding axially relative to the axis 306 toward the first side 602 and independently of the piston 308. When the snap ring 622 and the surface 660 abut, there may be little clearance between the two axially relative to the axis 306. Likewise, when the shoulder 656 and the surface 658 abut, there may be little axial clearance therebetween relative to the axis 306 .

[0107] Figure 6B A fourth cross-sectional view 670 of the actuator 302 is shown. The fourth cross-sectional view 670 can be taken on line 504, with reference to Figure 5 The fourth cross-sectional view 670 shows a close up perspective view and additional details of the actuator 302 . The example of the actuator 302 shown in the fourth cross-sectional view is not fluidly coupled to the valve or fastened with the fastener 620 .

[0108] Go to Figure 7 , which shows an example embodiment of a cross-sectional view 700 of a piston 308 from an isometric perspective view 701. Other embodiments of piston 308 may exist that are not symmetrical about axis 306, but have different features and dimensions. The cross-sectional view 700 may be a half-section of piston 308. The cross-sectional view 700 may be taken on line 504, reference Figure 5 , or intercepted by a plane on axis 306 and intercepted to plane 360, reference Figure 3A-3B The cross-sectional view 700 may be isolated from other components of the actuator 302 .

[0109] The piston 308 may have a first outer diameter 734. The first outer diameter 734 stretches between the two sides of the outer surface 531. The piston 308 may have a second inner diameter 730 and a second outer diameter 736 around the third mouth 568a. The piston 308 may have a third inner diameter 732 and a third outer diameter 738 around the fourth mouth 568b. The ring 536 may have a fourth outer diameter 740, and the groove 538 may have a fifth outer diameter 741.

[0110] The second inner diameter 730 and the third inner diameter 732 can be approximately the same distance. The second outer diameter 736 and the third outer diameter 738 can be variable, wherein the second outer diameter 736 and the third outer diameter 738 can reduce the distance at a point axially away from the ring 536 relative to the axis 306. The first outer surface 742 can be positioned around the third mouth 568a. The second outer surface 744 can be positioned around the fourth mouth 568b. The first outer surface 742 and the second outer surface 744 can be radially positioned relative to the axis 306. The reduction of the second outer diameter 736 and the third outer diameter 738 respectively causes the first outer surface 742 and the second outer surface 744 to have a semi-conical shape.

[0111] Therefore, an actuator is disclosed herein that can be used to translate a shift rod for a transmission. The actuator is independent. The actuator can be assembled and operated separately from the transmission. The actuator can be a hydraulic and double-acting actuator. The actuator can be combined with a valve block, wherein the valve block can be a separate block. The valve block can be assembled and form a cylinder around a piston. The piston can be centered on the central axis of the cylinder and translate axially relative to the central axis of the cylinder. The valve block can be fluidly connected to a single or multiple valves. For example, there may be only a single four-way valve or at least two three-way valves. One or more valves can be single or multiple solenoid valves, such as solenoid pressure proportional valves. One or more valves can be fluidly connected to multiple adductor lines and other passages formed by the valve block and are in fluid communication with multiple adductor lines and other passages formed by the valve block. The adductor line can be fluidly connected to the hole and cylinder of the valve block that can accommodate the piston and is in fluid communication with the hole and cylinder of the valve block. The piston can be hollow so that the shift rod can be inserted into the hole of the piston and is partially enclosed by the hole of the piston. When inserted into the piston, a gap may be formed between the outer surface of the switch rod and the inner surface of the piston. The switch rod may be secured to the piston via an annular and / or circular clip on a first end of the switch rod and a shoulder formed by and positioned on the opposite end of the switch rod.

[0112] It will be understood that the configurations and routines disclosed herein are exemplary in nature, and these specific embodiments should not be considered limiting, as a variety of changes may be made. For example, the above-described techniques may be applied to various transmission types. Furthermore, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the terms "first," "second," "third," and the like are not intended to indicate any order, position, quantity, or importance, but are merely used as labels to distinguish one element from another. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various systems and configurations and other features, functions, and / or characteristics disclosed herein.

[0113] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the term "substantially" is to be interpreted as meaning plus or minus five percent of the range.

[0114] The appended claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations believed to be novel and non-obvious. These claims may refer to "an" element or a "first" element or the equivalent thereof. Such claims should be understood to include combinations of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Other combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features, functions, elements, and / or characteristics may be claimed in this or a related application by amendment of the present claims or by presentation of new claims. Such claims, whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, are deemed to be included in the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A valve block, comprising: A hydraulic cylinder and one or more valves, wherein one or more adduction lines between the one or more valves and the hydraulic cylinder are configured to not exceed ten percent of the volume obtained by full stroke displacement of a hollow piston to allow the hydraulic cylinder to be self-cleaning, wherein the hydraulic cylinder drives and guides the hollow piston, wherein the through-hole of the hollow piston is configured to receive a rod axially aligned relative to the centerline of the hollow piston, wherein the hollow piston has a radial clearance formed between an inner surface of the hollow piston and the rod.

2. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The valve block is separate from the transmission housing and is not accommodated by the transmission housing.

3. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: There is no axial play between the rod and the hollow piston.

4. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hydraulic cylinder is of double-acting type.

5. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The volume displaced by the hollow piston in a full stroke is at least ten times greater than the volume of the one or more adduction lines consisting of all passages from the regulating port of the one or more valves to the cylinder.

6. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The valve block also includes a plurality of sealing members positioned around the hollow piston to form one or more pressure chambers between the hollow piston and an inner surface of the valve block.

7. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The hollow piston has a surface at a distance from the bore forming the hydraulic cylinder, wherein the surface is not enclosed by the valve block, and wherein a circular clamp is positioned around the rod and abuts against the surface so that the rod is fastened to the hollow piston.

8. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The clearance between the rod and the hollow piston is configured to enable the rod to move off the centerline without generating any radial load on the hollow piston.

9. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The valve block further comprises at least two three-way valves, wherein the piston is driven by the at least two three-way valves.

10. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The valve block further comprises only a single four-way valve, wherein the piston is driven by the single four-way valve.

11. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that: The one or more valves are single or multiple solenoid valves.

12. The valve block according to claim 1, characterized in that The hollow piston is axisymmetric and comprises a central ring having a groove supporting a first seal, wherein the groove extends radially around the central ring relative to the central axis of the rod and into the central ring, the first seal being pressed against the inner surface of the hydraulic cylinder.

13. The valve block according to claim 12, characterized in that The valve block further includes a first plug and a second plug each coupled in the valve block, wherein the first plug and the second plug are axisymmetric.

14. The valve block according to claim 13, characterized in that One of the first plug or the second plug is integrated with the block itself.

15. The valve block according to claim 12, characterized in that: The hollow piston and actuator allow the rod to extend beyond the opposing surface of the valve block, wherein the rod can have a groove that allows a circular clamp to be positioned around the rod to secure the rod to the piston, and the block also includes a fluid passage, the fluid passage including a first passage and a second passage, wherein the second passage is coupled to a first pressure chamber and the second passage is coupled to a second pressure chamber.

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