Control valve, in particular for a ventilation device, method for operating a control valve and ventilation device with a control valve

Abstract

The invention relates to a control valve (2), in particular for a ventilation device (1), with a flow channel (4) formed in a valve housing (5) of the control valve (2), wherein a valve element (9) for adjusting a flow cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel (4) is arranged in the flow channel (4).The valve element (9) is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal center axis of the flow channel (4) and interacts with a valve seat in a first axial position to adjust a first flow cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel (4) and in a second axial position to adjust a second flow cross-sectional area of ​​the flow channel (4) that differs from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element (9) is rotatably mounted in the valve housing (5) about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal center axis and is connected to the valve housing (5) via a cam mechanism (10), such that the valve element (9) is in the first axial position when the valve element (9) is in a first rotational angular position with respect to the valve housing (5) and is in the second axial position when the valve element (9) is in a second rotational angular position that differs from the second rotational angular position.The invention further relates to a method for operating a control valve (2) and a ventilation device (1) with a control valve (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a control valve, in particular for a ventilation device, comprising a flow channel formed in a valve housing of the control valve, wherein a valve element for adjusting a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel is arranged in the flow channel. The invention further relates to a method for operating a control valve for a ventilation device and to a ventilation device having a control valve.

[0002] For example, the prior art document DE 195 28 302 C2 is known. This document relates to a closure device for a ventilation system, in particular for a fan, with a plurality of slats arranged so as to be pivotable about their longitudinal axes and with an actuating device for pivoting the slats from a closed position to an open position and vice versa. The slats are arranged such that, in the closed position, they form a surface curved relative to the longitudinal axes, preferably convexly curved outwards. The actuating device interlaces the slats with varying degrees of play in their open position, such that, in the open position, they have the same or approximately the same opening angle relative to a common reference plane. The document DE 101 13 371 A1 describes a fire protection valve for a pipeline.An inner valve section of this fire protection valve can be axially displaced by means of a servomotor, so that it rests against a valve seat in one position and is spaced apart from it in another. The inner valve section is connected to the servomotor via a spindle.

[0003] The object of the invention is to propose a control valve, in particular for a ventilation device, which has advantages over known control valves, in particular enabling a permanently precise adjustment of the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel. This is achieved according to the invention with a control valve for a ventilation device having the features of claim 1.It is provided that the valve element is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the flow channel and cooperates with a valve seat in a first axial position for setting a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel and in a second axial position for setting a second flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel that is different from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element is rotatably mounted in the valve housing about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal central axis and is connected to the valve housing via a cam mechanism, so that the valve element is arranged in the first axial position when the valve element is in a first rotational angle position with respect to the valve housing and in the second axial position when the valve element is in a second rotational angle position that is different from the first rotational angle position.

[0004] Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0005] The control valve is preferably a component of the ventilation device, but can also be separate from it. The ventilation device serves in particular to ventilate a room, preferably an interior space of a building. Ventilation can be understood as either aerating or venting. Ventilating refers to the supply of fluid, in particular air, into the room, whereas venting refers to the removal of the fluid from the room. To ventilate the room, the ventilation device preferably has a fan that is provided and designed to convey a fluid flow through the flow channel. The fan is, for example, electrically driven or drivable and is coupled to an electric motor for this purpose.

[0006] Of course, the control valve can also be used in other applications. In this respect, the control valve is generally understood as an adjustable valve by means of which the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel and thus the fluid flow rate through the control valve can be adjusted. Fluid flow rate is understood as a fluid quantity per unit of time, preferably a fluid mass flow or a fluid volume flow.

[0007] The control valve comprises, as its essential components, the flow channel formed in the valve housing and the valve element for adjusting the flow cross-section or the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel. The valve element is movable relative to the valve housing in order to adjust the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel. Different values for the flow cross-sectional area exist in the different positions of the valve element relative to the valve housing.

[0008] To enable a particularly simple design and reliable adjustment of the flow cross-sectional area, the valve element is axially displaceable, namely relative to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel. The valve element can therefore be arranged in different axial positions, namely at least the first axial position and the second axial position. Preferably, the valve element is mounted on the valve housing in such a way that axial displaceability is ensured. In other words, the valve element is mounted on the valve housing so that it can be displaced in the axial direction.

[0009] In the different axial positions, the valve element interacts with the valve seat to adjust the different flow cross-sectional areas. Preferably, the valve element is positioned at different distances from the valve seat in the different axial positions. The respective flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel is established between the valve element and the valve seat. In the first axial position, the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel corresponds to the first flow cross-sectional area, and in the second axial position of the valve element, it corresponds to the second flow cross-sectional area.

[0010] For example, the first flow cross-sectional area is smaller than the second flow cross-sectional area. Particularly preferably, the first flow cross-sectional area is zero, so that in the first axial position, the valve element interacts with the valve seat to close the flow channel. For this purpose, the valve element preferably rests continuously and uninterruptedly against the valve seat. The second flow cross-sectional area preferably corresponds to a maximum adjustable flow cross-sectional area during normal operation of the control valve. However, the second flow cross-sectional area is at least larger than the first flow cross-sectional area, so that the flow channel is at least partially fluidically open in the second axial position of the valve element.

[0011] The displacement of the valve element in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel can fundamentally be achieved in different ways. However, it has proven particularly advantageous to achieve the axial displacement by means of a cam mechanism. Accordingly, the valve element in the valve housing is not only displaceable in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel, but is also mounted so as to be rotatable about the axis of rotation. In particular, the valve element is displaceable in and / or on the valve housing in the axial direction and mounted so as to be rotatable in the circumferential direction. The axis of rotation for rotating the valve element is parallel to the longitudinal center axis. This means that the axis of rotation either coincides with the longitudinal center axis or is arranged parallel and spaced from it.

[0012] The valve element is connected to the valve housing via the cam mechanism. The cam mechanism is designed such that, when the valve element rotates relative to the rotational axis, it causes the valve element to be axially displaced relative to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel. This means that at different rotational angle positions of the valve element relative to the valve housing, the valve element is arranged in different axial positions. At least, the valve element is in the first axial position in the first rotational angle position and in the second axial position in the second rotational angle position. In this case, both the first rotational angle position and the second rotational angle position, as well as the first axial position and the second axial position, are different from one another.

[0013] A cam mechanism is a mechanism that directly converts the rotary motion of the valve element into axial displacement of the valve element. Each rotational angle position is correspondingly assigned to an axial position, and vice versa. The axial displacement is achieved by means of the cam mechanism due to the rotary motion. The cam mechanism preferably has at least a first gear device and a second gear device, which cooperate to displace the valve element in the axial direction when the rotary motion occurs. One of the gear devices is present, for example, as a cam carrier, and the other gear device is present as a pickup element.

[0014] The described control valve design has the advantage that the flow cross-sectional area can be adjusted reliably and with high precision. Furthermore, it is possible to design an actuator for driving the valve element with a circumferentially encapsulated design, so that it is fluidically separated from the flow channel. This ensures good protection of the actuator against external influences, thus achieving a long service life of the control valve.

[0015] A further development of the invention provides that the valve element can be driven in the circumferential direction relative to the actuating axis by means of an actuator, wherein the actuator comprises an electric actuator or a preloaded actuating spring. The actuator thus serves to rotate the valve element about the axis of rotation. For this purpose, the actuator is coupled to the valve element. The actuator can, in principle, be designed as desired, provided it is intended and designed to drive the valve element in the circumferential direction of the axis of rotation.

[0016] However, the actuator preferably comprises the electric actuator or the preloaded actuating spring, or is present as such. The electric actuator can also be referred to as an electric motor or an electric actuator. The actuator is drive-coupled to the valve element in such a way that, on the one hand, a rotary movement of the actuator is transmitted to the valve element, but, on the other hand, the axial displacement of the valve element relative to the actuator is permitted. In other words, the valve element is axially displaceable relative to the actuator, but is drive-coupled to it in the circumferential direction relative to the rotational axis, preferably permanently and / or rigidly.

[0017] In addition to or alternatively to the actuator motor, the actuating spring can be a component of the actuator or form the actuator. The actuating spring is preloaded in such a way that it exerts a circumferential force on the valve element, which at least temporarily causes its rotational movement and thus its axial displacement. For example, although the valve element is subjected to the circumferential force by the preloaded actuating spring, it is initially fixed in the circumferential direction by means of a holding device. When the holding device is released, the valve element is released for rotational movement in the circumferential direction, so that the force exerted by the actuating spring causes the rotational movement and consequently also the axial displacement.

[0018] The actuating spring is preloaded, for example, such that the valve element is displaced by it into the first axial position or into the second axial position. After displacement by the actuating spring, the valve element is preferably arranged to interrupt the flow of the flow channel. The holding device is designed, for example, such that it releases the rotary movement of the valve element when a specific ambient condition occurs, for example when a temperature threshold is exceeded by the temperature of the fluid present in the room and / or the flow channel and / or when smoke is present in the room and / or the flow channel. In this case, the control valve is designed, in particular, as a fire protection valve. The control valve described can be used universally and ensures reliable displacement of the valve element.

[0019] A further development of the invention provides that the actuator is drive-connected to the valve element in a contactless manner via a magnetic connection device, wherein the magnetic connection device has a first magnetic connection device connected to the actuator and a second magnetic connection device that magnetically interacts with the first magnetic connection device and is connected to the valve element, such that the first magnetic connection device is drive-connected to the valve element only indirectly via the second magnetic connection device. The drive connection between the actuator and the valve element is established exclusively in a contactless manner, namely exclusively via the magnetic connection device. This means that the drive connection of the valve element to the actuator is, at least in some areas, exclusively magnetic and at most partially mechanical.

[0020] The magnetic connection device has a plurality of magnetic connection devices, namely at least the first magnetic connection device and the second magnetic connection device. The two magnetic connection devices cooperate in terms of drive technology to couple the actuator to the valve element. The first magnetic connection device is assigned to the actuator, and the second magnetic connection device is assigned to the valve element. This means that the first magnetic connection device is preferably rigidly and permanently connected to the actuator, whereas the second magnetic connection device is preferably rigidly and permanently connected to the valve element. For example, the second magnetic connection device is attached to the valve element.

[0021] Ultimately, there is only an indirect drive connection between the actuator and the valve element, namely via the magnetic connection device. The first magnetic connection device is only indirectly connected to the valve element via the second magnetic connection device, and conversely, the second magnetic connection device is only indirectly connected to the actuator via the first magnetic connection device. Such a design of the control valve enables particularly effective encapsulation of the actuator to protect it from external environmental influences or from the influence of the fluid. Accordingly, a particularly durable and long-lasting design of the control valve is realized.

[0022] A further development of the invention provides that the actuator is arranged in an actuator receptacle of a drive housing, in particular a fluid-tight one, which is present in the flow channel, wherein the first magnetic connection device is arranged on the one hand on a drive housing wall delimiting the actuator receptacle and the second magnetic connection device is arranged on the other hand on the drive housing wall, so that a magnetic connection running through the drive housing wall is present between the magnetic connection devices.

[0023] The drive housing is provided and designed to accommodate the actuator. Accordingly, the drive housing has the actuator receptacle, in which the actuator is arranged or at least can be arranged. The drive housing is located in the flow channel, so that the drive housing is exposed to the fluid in the flow channel. For example, the fluid is at least partially in contact with the drive housing wall of the drive housing, which defines the actuator receptacle. In particular, the drive housing wall separates the actuator receptacle from the flow channel.

[0024] Particularly preferably, the drive housing wall and the drive housing are designed to be fluid-tight, so that fluid from the flow channel cannot flow into the actuator receptacle, and conversely, fluid present in the actuator receptacle cannot enter the flow channel. In other words, the drive housing, in particular the drive housing wall, fluidically separates the flow channel and the actuator receptacle. Accordingly, the actuator is arranged in a manner protected from the influence of the fluid.

[0025] Such a control valve configuration is made possible, in particular, by the magnetic connection device, via which the actuator and the valve element are connected to each other in a contactless drive-related manner. This is achieved by means of the magnetic connection that exists between the first magnetic connection device and the second magnetic connection device. The magnetic connection is understood to be a magnetic connection via which a force and / or torque can be transmitted between the magnetic connection devices.

[0026] The magnetic connection devices are arranged on opposite sides of the drive housing wall, namely in such a way that the magnetic connection, via which the actuator is coupled to the valve element in terms of drive technology, is located between them. This means that the magnetic connection runs through the drive housing wall. Particularly preferably, the magnetic connection devices are arranged opposite one another or overlapping one another on opposite sides of the drive housing wall.

[0027] A straight line perpendicular to the drive housing wall, which can also be referred to as a surface normal, preferably runs on one side of the drive housing wall through the first magnetic connection device and on the other side of the drive housing wall through the second magnetic connection device, so that the magnetic connection devices are arranged opposite one another on different sides of the drive housing wall. This achieves a particularly effective force transmission or torque transmission between the magnetic connection devices.

[0028] A further development of the invention provides that the drive housing is arranged in the flow channel via at least one retaining web in such a way that the flow channel completely and in particular continuously surrounds the drive housing in the circumferential direction. The flow channel is delimited by a valve housing wall of the valve housing. The valve housing wall preferably continuously and completely surrounds the flow channel in the circumferential direction with respect to its longitudinal center axis. Viewed in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal center axis, the drive housing is arranged at least partially in overlap with the valve housing wall. The drive housing is arranged in the flow channel in such a way that it is continuously spaced from the channel wall in the circumferential direction, so that the flow channel completely surrounds the drive housing in the circumferential direction.For example, the drive housing is arranged centrally in the flow channel, so that the distance between the drive housing and the valve housing wall is constant throughout the circumferential direction.

[0029] Such an arrangement of the drive housing is achieved by means of at least one retaining web. The retaining web engages on the one hand on the drive housing and on the other hand on the valve housing or the valve housing wall. Of course, only a single retaining web can be present. However, the drive housing is particularly preferably fastened by means of several retaining webs, each of which engages the valve housing or the valve housing wall on its side facing away from the drive housing in order to hold the drive housing in the flow channel. The several retaining webs are particularly preferably arranged equidistantly in the circumferential direction, i.e. evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. For example, there are at least two retaining webs, at least three retaining webs or at least four retaining webs. This enables reliable and stable fastening of the drive housing in the valve housing.

[0030] A further development of the invention provides that the at least one retaining web carries a receiving element in which the drive housing is arranged, wherein the drive housing is closed with a cover fastened to the receiving element. Preferably, the receiving element is formed in one piece and of the same material as the at least one retaining web and the valve housing, whereas the drive housing is present as an insert part that can be inserted into the receiving element during assembly of the control valve. The receiving element, the at least one retaining web and the valve housing are here, for example, available as an injection-molded part or the like and are manufactured together. The drive housing, on the other hand, is manufactured separately from the valve housing and only subsequently inserted into the receiving element during assembly of the control valve.The receiving element is preferably in the form of a hollow cylinder which is fastened to the valve housing via the at least one retaining web.

[0031] In addition to the receiving element, there is a cover which is fastened to the receiving element and serves to close the actuator housing. When assembling the control valve, the actuator housing is first inserted into the receiving element and then the cover is arranged and fastened to the receiving element. The actuator housing is closed in this case, namely by means of the cover. Particularly preferably, the cover closes the actuator housing in a fluid-tight manner, so that the cover prevents fluid from the flow channel from penetrating into the actuator housing. The cover is fastened at least to the receiving element. For example, after it has been installed, the cover is supported on the receiving element. In addition, the cover can be fastened to the actuator housing. It can also be provided that the cover is only indirectly fastened to the receiving element, namely via the actuator housing.For this purpose, the drive housing is first attached to the receiving element and finally the cover is attached to the drive housing, namely directly in each case.

[0032] It is particularly preferably provided that the cover is positively connected to the receiving element, the drive housing or both the receiving element and the drive housing, for example in each case by means of a snap-in connection. In this respect, a positive connection or a snap-in connection can exist between the cover and the receiving element or between the cover and the drive housing. However, it can also be provided that the cover is fastened to the receiving element via a first positive connection or snap-in connection and to the drive housing via a second positive connection or snap-in connection, preferably directly in each case. This achieves reliable fastening of the cover and the drive housing to the receiving element. The cover preferably has a cover wall, which can be regarded as part of the drive housing wall.

[0033] A further development of the invention provides that the at least one retaining web and the cover jointly define a cable duct, which opens into the drive housing on the one hand and into a cable receptacle formed in the valve housing away from the flow channel on the other. The cable duct is located between the retaining web and the cover and, viewed in section, is completely encompassed by them. The cable duct is thus protected by the retaining web and the cover from the influence of the fluid from the flow channel.

[0034] The cable duct connects the actuator housing to the cable receptacle formed in the valve housing. Preferably, at least one electrical line is arranged in the cable duct, via which the actuator is electrically connected to a power connection of the control valve. The power connection is provided, for example, as a plug-in connection or a clamp connection on the valve housing and enables an electrical connection of the control valve or actuator to a power source located away from the control valve. This design of the control valve ensures a reliable electrical connection of the actuator.

[0035] A further development of the invention provides that the cam mechanism comprises a first gear device connected to the valve housing and a second gear device that interacts positively with the first gear device to form the cam mechanism and is formed on the valve element. The cam mechanism consists of the first gear device and the second gear device, which interact to convert the rotary movement of the valve element into an axial displacement of the valve element. This interaction takes place in a positive manner.

[0036] For this purpose, one of the gear devices is designed as a guide projection or pick-off element, and the other gear device is designed as a guide recess or cam carrier, wherein the guide projection engages in the guide recess. The guide recess is angled, at least in some regions, with respect to a longitudinal center axis of the valve element, which preferably coincides with the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel, or a straight line parallel to it. This means that the guide recess encloses an angle with the longitudinal center axis or the straight line parallel to it that is greater than 0° and less than 90°. Particularly preferably, the angle is at least 15° and at most 75°, at least 30° and at most 60°, or approximately or exactly 45°.

[0037] The first gear mechanism is connected to the valve housing, in particular rigidly and permanently. The first gear mechanism is therefore stationary and protrudes into the valve housing. The second gear mechanism, however, is located on the valve element or is attached to it. Preferably, the second gear mechanism forms part of the valve element. This ensures good fatigue strength of the cam mechanism, so that the control valve is characterized by particularly longevity and functional reliability.

[0038] A further development of the invention provides that the first gear device is a guide projection, and the second gear device is a guide recess, in particular a helical one, that positively receives the guide projection. The first gear device connected to the valve housing is thus the guide projection, while the second gear device, designed as a guide recess, is assigned to the valve element. The guide recess is preferably formed directly in the valve element.

[0039] The guide recess runs at an angle to the longitudinal center axis of the valve element or the straight line parallel to it, so that the interaction of the first gear device with the second gear device converts a rotational movement of the valve element relative to the valve housing into an axial displacement of the valve element relative to the valve housing. The extent of the guide recess in the circumferential direction is, for example, at least 15° and at most 90°, preferably at least 30° and at most 45°. For example, the guide recess extends in the circumferential direction over at most 90°, at most 60°, or at most 45°. For example, the guide recess runs helically at least in sections, in particular helically throughout. Such a design of the cam mechanism enables reliable displacement of the valve element in the axial direction.

[0040] A further development of the invention provides that the at least one retaining web forms the guide projection. The at least one retaining web thus serves not only to hold the actuator in the flow channel, but also forms the cam mechanism. This eliminates the need for an additional element for the cam mechanism, so that an effective flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel is achieved or can be achieved.

[0041] A further development of the invention provides that the first magnetic connection device and the second magnetic connection device each have a plurality of magnetically interacting magnetic connection elements. It can be provided that the magnetic connection elements of one of the magnetic connection devices are designed as permanent magnets, whereas the magnetic connection elements of the second magnetic connection device are made of a magnetizable material. However, the magnetic connection elements of both magnetic connection devices are particularly preferably designed as permanent magnets in order to achieve a reliable magnetic connection between the magnetic connection devices.

[0042] A further development of the invention provides that the first magnetic connection device is rotatably mounted on the cover. For this purpose, the first connection device and the cover are connected to one another via a pivot bearing, in particular a plain bearing. For example, the cover has a bearing pin on which the first magnetic connection device is rotatably seated. Particularly preferably, the first magnetic connection device is held on the bearing pin via a latching connection. For this purpose, the bearing pin has, for example, at least one latching element which engages the first magnetic connection device in a form-fitting manner for latching. It is preferably provided that the first magnetic connection device is rotatably mounted on the cover during assembly of the control valve, in particular is applied to the bearing pin, until the latching connection between the first magnetic connection device and the bearing pin is present.

[0043] The first magnetic connection device preferably has a hollow cylindrical base body that is placed onto the bearing journal, so that the bearing journal at least partially or even completely extends through the base body in the axial direction with respect to a rotational axis of the first magnetic connection device. The base body is surrounded by a gear, via which the first magnetic connection device is connected to the actuator, for which purpose the gear meshes with a gear of the actuator. The base body is surrounded by a support ring, which is fastened to the base body, for example, via at least one web. The support ring and the base body are preferably connected to one another via a plurality of webs that are arranged uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotational axis.

[0044] The magnetic connecting elements of the first magnetic connecting device are arranged on the support ring. The first magnetic connecting device, in particular the support ring, preferably has receiving pockets for the magnetic connecting elements. The receiving pockets are open radially outward. The magnetic connecting elements are preferably pressed and / or glued into the receiving pockets. In any case, the receiving pockets are arranged and aligned such that the cover holds the magnetic connecting elements in the receiving pockets after the first magnetic connecting device is mounted on the cover, in particular after it is mounted rotatably thereon.

[0045] The invention further relates to a method for operating a control valve, preferably for a ventilation device, in particular a control valve according to the embodiments within the scope of this description, wherein the control valve has a flow channel formed in a valve housing of the control valve, in which a valve element for adjusting a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel is arranged.It is provided that the valve element is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the flow channel and cooperates with a valve seat in a first axial position for setting a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel and in a second axial position for setting a second flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel that is different from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element is rotated in the valve housing at least temporarily about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal central axis and is connected to the valve housing via a cam mechanism, so that the valve element is arranged in the first axial position when the valve element is in a first rotational angle position with respect to the valve housing and in the second axial position when the valve element is in a second rotational angle position that is different from the first rotational angle position.

[0046] The advantages of such a procedure or such a control valve design have already been pointed out. Both the control valve and the method for its operation can be further developed according to the explanations in this description, so reference is made to these in this regard.

[0047] The invention also relates to a ventilation device with a control valve, in particular a control valve according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the control valve has a flow channel formed in a valve housing of the control valve, in which a valve element for adjusting a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel is arranged.It is provided that the valve element is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the flow channel and cooperates with a valve seat in a first axial position for setting a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel and in a second axial position for setting a second flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel that is different from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element is rotatably mounted in the valve housing about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal central axis and is connected to the valve housing via a cam mechanism, so that the valve element is arranged in the first axial position when the valve element is in a first rotational angle position with respect to the valve housing and in the second axial position when the valve element is in a second rotational angle position that is different from the first rotational angle position.

[0048] With regard to the advantages and possible further developments of the ventilation device and the control valve, reference is again made to the explanations in this description.

[0049] A further development of the invention provides a fan designed and configured to convey a fluid flow through the flow channel. The ventilation device thus has the fan in addition to the control valve. The fan is particularly preferably electrically driven, namely by means of an electric fan drive. The fan drive is particularly preferably arranged in the drive housing, namely together with the actuator, which serves to adjust the flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel. The fan is preferably arranged on the side of the drive housing opposite the valve element in the axial direction.

[0050] The fan preferably has an impeller and a guide wheel. The impeller is arranged in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel between the guide wheel and the drive housing. The impeller preferably has a plurality of rotor blades which are arranged radially on the outside of a cup-shaped base body of the impeller. During assembly of the ventilation device, the base body is arranged such that it surrounds the drive housing and / or the receiving element in the radial direction on the outside, at least in regions, in particular continuously and uninterruptedly in the circumferential direction. For example, the base body rests against the gear housing and / or the receiving element, so that the impeller is rotatably mounted or a plain bearing is formed for the impeller. A gear is preferably formed on the base body and engages with a gear of the fan drive.The impeller or the base body of the impeller can of course also be directly coupled to the fan drive in terms of drive technology and, for this purpose, can in particular engage directly with a shaft of the fan drive. The features and combinations of features described in the description, in particular the features and combinations of features described in the following description of the figures and / or shown in the figures, can be used not only in the respective combination specified, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, embodiments are also to be considered as encompassed by the invention that are not explicitly shown and explained in the description and / or the figures, but which arise from the explained forms of expression or can be derived from them.

[0051] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings, without limiting the invention. In the drawings: Figure 1 shows a schematic exploded view of a ventilation device with a control valve and a fan, Figure 2 shows a schematic view of an actuator arranged in a drive housing for adjusting a flow cross-sectional area of a flow channel of the control valve, Figure 3 shows a further schematic view of the actuator, Figure 4 shows a schematic view of a cover for closing the drive housing, and Figure 5 shows a schematic view of a valve element of the control valve.

[0052] The Figure 1shows a schematic representation of a ventilation device 1, which is preferably intended and configured for ventilating an interior space of a building. The ventilation device has a control valve 2 and a fan 3. The fan 3 is intended and configured to convey a fluid, in particular air, through a flow channel 4, either toward the interior space or away from the interior space. The flow channel 4 is formed in a valve housing 5 of the control valve 2.

[0053] For example, the valve housing 5 has a wall attachment 6, which is mounted on a wall delimiting the interior space. A valve housing wall 7 extends from the wall attachment 6, which in the exemplary embodiment shown here is partially hollow cylindrical, in particular hollow circular cylindrical, preferably on its side facing the fan 3. On the side facing away from the fan 3, the flow channel 4 widens, with the valve housing wall 7 being funnel-shaped, for example. The wall attachment 6 is provided, for example, with a cover 8, which is arranged at a distance from the wall attachment 6, so that an outflow channel or inflow channel is present between the cover 8 and the wall attachment 6, via which the flow channel 4 is in flow connection with the interior space.

[0054] With the help of the cover 8, fluid flowing through the flow channel 4 is redirected toward the cover 8 or toward the interior space. While it flows through the flow channel 4 essentially in an axial direction relative to a longitudinal center axis of the flow channel 4, it is redirected by the cover 8 so that it flows outward in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal center axis and reaches the interior space. Conversely, if the fluid is conveyed out of the interior space, it initially flows radially into the ventilation device 1 and is subsequently redirected so that it again flows through the flow channel 4 in an axial direction.

[0055] A valve element 9 is assigned to the flow channel 4, by means of which a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel 4 can be adjusted. The flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel 4 is adjusted by displacing the valve element 9 in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel 4. In a first axial position of the valve element 9 with respect to the valve housing 5, there is a first distance between the valve element 9 and the valve housing 5, at which distance a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel 4 is defined. In a second axial position, however, there is a second distance between the valve element 9 and the valve housing 5, which is different from the first distance, so that a second flow cross-sectional area is established which is different from the first flow cross-sectional area.

[0056] The displacement of the valve element 9 in the axial direction is effected by a rotational movement of the valve element 9 relative to the valve housing 5, i.e., by a rotational movement of the valve element 9 in the circumferential direction relative to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel 4. For this purpose, the valve element 9 is connected to the valve housing 5 via a cam gear 10 (not shown here). The cam gear 10 converts the rotational movement of the valve element 9 into the axial displacement.

[0057] The valve element 9 can be driven in the circumferential direction relative to the axis of rotation by means of an actuator 11. The actuator 11 has an electric actuator 12. The actuator 12 is arranged in a drive housing 13. The drive housing 13 is held in the flow channel 4 by means of at least one retaining web 14 (in the exemplary embodiment shown here, by means of several retaining webs 14). Specifically, a receiving element 15 is arranged in the flow channel 4 by means of the at least one retaining web 14, which receives the drive housing 13. Also arranged in the drive housing 13 is a drive motor 16 (not visible here), by means of which the fan 3 is driven at least temporarily.

[0058] A cover 17 is arranged on the receiving element 15 and closes the drive housing 13, preferably in a fluid-tight manner. The cover 17 has at least one arm 18, preferably as many arms 18 as there are retaining webs 14. The arms 18 are arranged on the cover 17 in such a way that, after the cover 17 is arranged on the receiving element 15, they overlap the retaining webs 14. In this way, the at least one retaining web 14 and the cover 17 or its respective arm 18 together define a cable duct 19. The cable duct 19 connects the drive housing 13 to a cable receptacle 20 formed in the valve housing 5.

[0059] The valve element 9 is driven in the circumferential direction by means of the actuator 11 or the servo motor 12 with the aid of a magnetic connection device 21. With the aid of the magnetic connection device 21, a contactless force or torque transmission between the actuator 11 and the valve element 9 is achieved. The magnetic connection device 21 has a first magnetic connection device 22 and a second magnetic connection device 23. The first magnetic connection device 22 is connected to the actuator 11 for drive purposes, whereas the second magnetic connection device 23 is assigned to the valve element 9 and is preferably fastened thereto.

[0060] A magnetic connection exists between the magnetic connecting devices 22 and 23, which extends through a drive housing wall 24 of the drive housing 13. For this purpose, the magnetic connecting devices 22 and 23 are arranged on opposite sides of the drive housing wall 24 after the assembly of the control valve 2 or the ventilation device 1, namely the first magnetic connecting device 22 on the inside in the radial direction and the second magnetic connecting device 23 on the outside in the radial direction of the drive housing wall 24. In this context, it should be noted that a cover wall 24' of the cover can also be regarded as part of the drive housing wall 24, since it also partially delimits a space delimited outwards in the radial direction by the drive housing wall 24.

[0061] The first magnetic connection device 22 has a base body 25 on which a gear 26 is arranged. This gear 26 meshes with a gear 26', which is rotationally fixedly coupled to the servo motor 12. A retaining ring 27 is connected to the base body 25, in particular via one or more webs 28. Several magnetic connection elements 28 of the first magnetic connection device 22 are arranged on the retaining ring 27. Preferably, the retaining ring 27 has receiving pockets for the magnetic connection elements 29. The second magnetic connection device 23 also has magnetic connection elements 30, which are not visible here. These are firmly connected to the valve element 9. For example, they are inserted into receiving pockets of the valve element 9.

[0062] It can be seen that the fan 3 has an impeller 31. A guide vane (not shown here) may also be present. The impeller 31 has several blades 33, which are only partially labeled. The blades 33 extend from a base body 34 of the impeller 31, which is essentially pot-shaped and, after assembly of the ventilation device 1, encompasses the receiving element 15 for supporting the impeller 31.

[0063] The Figure 2shows a schematic representation of the actuator 11 arranged in the drive housing 13. The actuator motor 12 of the actuator 11 is preferably a servomotor, in particular a model-making servomotor. This has, for example, a nominal torque of at most 100 Ncm, at most 75 Ncm, at most 50 Ncm, or at most 25 Ncm. However, the nominal torque of the actuator 11 or the servomotor is particularly preferably lower, in particular it is at most 15 Ncm, at most 10 Ncm, or at most 5 Ncm. At least one recess 35 is formed in the drive housing wall 24. Preferably, there are several recesses 35. The recesses 35 are arranged during assembly of the ventilation device 1 such that they overlap with the cable ducts 19.Accordingly, the recesses 35 serve to guide at least one cable present in the cable duct 19 into the drive housing 13, for example up to the drive motor 16.

[0064] The Figure 3shows a further schematic representation of the actuator 11 in the drive housing 13. Control electronics 36, which serve to control and / or supply power to the actuator motor 12, are also arranged in the drive housing 13. It can also be seen that the drive motor 16 for driving the fan 3 is also present in the drive housing 13. The actuator motor 12 and the drive motor 16 are arranged such that their shafts extend in opposite directions. Another arrangement of the actuator motor 12 and the drive motor 16 is also possible in principle, for example, an arrangement in which the shafts of the actuator motor 12 and the drive motor 16, or the axes of rotation of the shafts, are angled 90° relative to one another.

[0065] The Figure 4shows a schematic representation of the cover 17 and the first magnetic connection device 22. It can be seen that the first magnetic connection device 22 is mounted on the cover 17 by means of a pin 37. The pin 37 also has locking means 38 that rotatably hold the first magnetic connection device 22 on the cover 17.

[0066] The Figure 5shows a schematic representation of the valve element 9. The magnetic connecting elements 30 of the second magnetic connecting device 23 can be seen, which are arranged in receiving pockets of the valve element 9. The rotational movement of the valve element 9 is converted into its displacement in the axial direction by means of the cam gear 10. This has a first gear device 39 and a second gear device 40. Here, the first gear device 39 is a guide projection, and the second gear device 40 is a guide recess that positively accommodates the guide projection.

[0067] The guide projection is formed by the already known retaining web 14, via which the receiving element 15 is fastened to the valve housing 5. The arm 18 can also form a component of the first gear device 39. The second gear device 40, i.e., the guide recess, is formed in the valve element 9. The guide recess runs at an angle relative to the longitudinal center axis of the flow channel 4 or a rotational axis of the valve element 9. This means that it forms an angle to this axis or to a straight line parallel to it that is greater than 0° and less than 180°, in particular greater than 0° and less than 90°.The cam gear 10 ensures a reliable conversion of the rotary movement of the valve element 9, which is effected by the actuator 11, into its axial movement, so that the valve element 9 can be displaced between different axial positions in which different flow cross-sectional areas of the flow channel 4 are set.

[0068] The described design of the ventilation device 1 has the advantage that the actuator 11 is easily encapsulated against external influences. Furthermore, the use of the magnetic connection device 21 offers the advantage that jamming of the valve element 9 does not lead to damage to the actuator 11, since the magnetic connection device 21 functions as a type of overload clutch. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0069] 1 Ventilation device 2 Control valve 3 Fan 4 Flow duct 5 Valve housing 6 Wall attachment 7 Valve housing wall 8 Cover 9 Valve element 10 Cam gear 11 Actuator 12 Actuator motor 13 Drive housing 14 Retaining web 15 Receptacle 16 Drive motor 17 Cover 18 Arm 19 Cable duct 20 Cable receptacle 21 Magnetic connecting device 221. Magnetic connecting device 232. Magnetic connecting device 24 Drive housing wall 24' Cover wall 25 Base body 26 Gear 26' Gear 27 Retaining ring 28 Web 29 Magnetic connecting element 30 Magnetic connecting element 31 Impeller 33 Impeller blade 34 Base body 35 Recess 36 Control electronics 37 Pin 38 Locking device 391. Gearbox device 402. Gearbox device

Claims

1. Control valve (2), in particular for a ventilation device (1), having a flow channel (4) configured in a valve housing (5) of the control valve (2), wherein a valve element (9) is arranged in the flow channel (4) for setting a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4), characterised in that the valve element (9) is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the flow channel (4) and interacts with a valve seat in a first axial position for setting a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4) and in a second axial position for setting a second flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4) different from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element (9) is rotatably mounted in the valve housing (5) about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal central axis and is connected to the valve housing (5) via a cam gear (10), so that the valve element (9) is arranged in the first axial position when the valve element (9) is in a first angular position of rotation with respect to the valve housing (5) and in the second axial position when the valve element (9) is in a second angular position of rotation different from the first angular position of rotation.

2. Control valve according to claim 1, characterised in that the valve element (9) is drivable in circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation by means of an actuating drive (11), wherein the actuating drive (11) comprises an electric actuator (12) or a preloaded actuating spring.

3. Control valve according to claim 2, characterised in that the actuating drive (11) is connected to the valve element (9) in a contactless manner via a magnetic connection apparatus (21), wherein the magnetic connection apparatus (21) comprises a first magnetic connection device (22) connected to the actuating drive (11) and a second magnetic connection device (23) magnetically interacting with the first magnetic connection device (22) and connected to the valve element (9), so that the first magnetic connection device (22) is only indirectly connected to the valve element (9) via the second magnetic connection device (23).

4. Control valve according to claim 3, characterised in that the actuating drive (11) is arranged in an actuating drive receptacle of an drive housing (13) present in the flow channel (4), wherein the first magnetic connection device (22) is arranged on one side of an drive housing wall (24) delimiting the actuating drive receptacle and the second magnetic connection device (23) is arranged on the other side of the drive housing wall (24), so that a magnetic connection extending through the drive housing wall (24) is present between the magnetic connection devices (22, 23).

5. Control valve according to claim 4, characterised in that the drive housing (13) is arranged in the flow channel (4) via at least one retaining web (14), that the flow channel (4) completely surrounds the drive housing (13) in circumferential direction.

6. Control valve according to claim 5, characterised in that the at least one retaining web (14) supports a receiving element (15) in which the drive housing (13) is arranged, wherein the drive housing (13) is closed with a cover (17) fastened to the receiving element (15).

7. Control valve according to claim 6, characterised in that the at least one retaining web (14) and the cover (17) jointly delimit a cable duct (19) which opens into the drive housing (13) on the one hand and into a cable receptacle (20) configured in the valve housing (5) away from the flow channel (4) on the other hand.

8. Control valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the cam gear (10) comprises a first gear device (39) connected to the valve housing (5) and a second gear device (40) which interacts form-fittingly with the first gear device (39) to form the cam gear (10) and is configured on the valve element (9).

9. Control valve according to claim 8, characterised in that the first gear device (39) is a guide projection and the second gear device (40) is a guide recess which form-fittingly receives the guide projection.

10. Control valve according to at least claim 5, characterised in that the at least one retaining web (14) forms the guide projection.

11. Control valve according to at least claim 3, characterised in that the first magnetic connection device (22) and the second magnetic connection device (23) each comprise a plurality of magnetic connection elements (29, 30) interacting magnetically with one another.

12. Control valve according to at least claim 6, characterised in that the first magnetic connection device (22) is rotatably mounted on the cover (17).

13. Method for operating a control valve (2), in particular a control valve (2) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the control valve (2) has a flow channel (4) configured in a valve housing (5) of the control valve (2) and in which a valve element (9) is arranged for setting a flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4), characterised in that the valve element (9) is axially displaceable with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the flow channel (4) and interacts with a valve seat in a first axial position for setting a first flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4) and in a second axial position for setting a second flow cross-sectional area of the flow channel (4) different from the first flow cross-sectional area, wherein the valve element (9) is at least temporarily rotated in the valve housing (5) about an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal central axis and is connected to the valve housing (5) via a cam gear (10), so that the valve element (9) is arranged in the first axial position when the valve element (9) is in a first angular position of rotation with respect to the valve housing (5) and in the second axial position when the valve element (9) is in a second angular position of rotation different from the first angular position of rotation.

14. Ventilation device (1) comprising a control valve (2) according to one or more of claims 1 to 12.

15. Ventilation device according to claim 14, characterised by a fan (3) which is provided and configured for conveying a fluid flow through the flow channel (4).

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