Solenoid valve with test connection

Abstract

The solenoid valve 300 includes a solenoid enclosure 302 having a conduit opening 304 configured to receive a wire 116, a solenoid coil 312 at least partially disposed within the solenoid enclosure, a valve body 102 coupled to the solenoid enclosure, and a test connection 100 coupled to the solenoid enclosure, the test connection 100 including the body 102 removably coupled to the conduit opening 304 and a plurality of test leads 106 housed in the body, each of the plurality of test leads having a first end 103A, 103B, 118A, 118B connectable to the solenoid coil. A method of configuring the valve includes providing one or more test connections coupled to the valve, testing the valve prior to final installation using the test connections, removing the test connections, and permanently installing the valve.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates generally to valves, and more particularly to test connections for valves. [Background technology]

[0002] A valve may generally include a valve body for routing a fluid from an inlet to an outlet and an actuator for controlling the flow of the fluid through the valve. Some valves, such as solenoid valves, may include an actuator that includes one or more electronic components, such as a solenoid coil, wiring components, a controller, or other electromechanical valve actuator components. Such components are housed, in whole or in part, in one or more enclosures or housings having removable covers or other locations with conduit openings for routing wires or other conduits to and from the valve to power the valve, to enable communication between the valve and other components of the valve system, and the like. Valves of this nature may be configured and used for a variety of purposes in a variety of industries and may include general purpose valves as well as more specialized valves, such as "explosion-proof" (i.e., explosion-resistant) valves or other valves designed for use in hazardous environments where resistance to moisture, chemicals, shock, vibration, or other environmental characteristics may be particularly important.

[0003] As an example, an explosion-proof solenoid valve may be shipped to a customer for installation or to an assembler to be assembled into a skid or other system that will be shipped to its final location. The current practice in the industry prior to shipping is to seal the solenoid valve enclosure for shipping by fastening the cover in place and inserting a seal into the enclosure's conduit opening by friction or threading. At the time of final installation of the solenoid valve, an electrician removes the seal and enclosure cover. The solenoid can then be wired for atmosphere or installation via the appropriate cable or conduit, and the cover can be reassembled. However, prior to final wiring, the customer or assembler may need to electrically test the solenoid valve one or more times prior to final installation. In the current state of the art, this involves removing the enclosure cover and wiring temporary test leads to the solenoid coil. After each test, the temporary wiring is removed and the enclosure cover is replaced and sealed to protect the component from the time of testing until final installation. Therefore, current practices can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, and also increase the risk of damaged or incorrectly repositioned parts or improper seals exposing the solenoid to potential damage.

[0004] The disclosures and teachings herein are directed to systems and methods for improved valves and valve test connections. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A valve, such as a solenoid valve, may have one or more enclosures or housings and one or more valve bodies and may include one or more conduit openings, such as holes or other passages, for receiving or routing wires, conduits and / or other components to or from one or more portions of the valve. A test connection, such as a fitting, connector, coupler or other connection for testing the valve, may be adapted to mate removably, permanently or otherwise with one or more conduit openings. In at least one embodiment, the test connection may include a plug, such as an at least partially elastomeric and / or rigid plug, for mating with the conduit opening, in whole or in part, individually or in combination, such as by press fit, interference fit, friction fit, threads, or other coupling means. The test connection may include one or more electrical couplers coupled to the plug, such as terminals, male or female plug connectors, or other structures for conducting or transmitting electricity or electrical signals. The test connection may include one or more test leads coupled to one or more electrical couplers, such as wires, pigtails, or other electrical leads. In at least one embodiment, the one or more test leads can have one end for coupling to a component of the valve, such as, for example, a solenoid coil or other electrical component of a solenoid valve, and another end for coupling to the plug or a portion thereof, such as an electrical coupler coupled to the plug. The electrical coupler can be coupled to the plug in one or more ways, which can include, but is not required to be, integrally formed with the plug, such as by being embedded or molded therein.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the plug can be adapted to sealingly couple with one or more conduit openings to at least partially restrict the inlet or outlet of water, moisture, or other materials into or out of the valve, which includes, but is not required to include, the use of one or more gaskets or seals. In at least one embodiment, but only one of many, the plug can be at least partially made from rubber or another elastomeric material and can be sized and shaped to sealingly couple with the conduit openings when inserted into and / or otherwise coupled to the conduit openings, which can include having any size or shape depending on the implementation of the present disclosure. For example, the plug can have the same or similar shape as the corresponding conduit opening and can have a larger outer dimension or cross-sectional area than the conduit openings, yet still be flexible enough to at least partially fit within the conduit openings and sealingly engage the openings or structures in which the openings reside. The plug can have, but is not required to have, one or more extensions or other outwardly extending structures on its exterior service to support coupling and / or sealing engagement with the conduit openings.

[0007] The test connection can include one or more ends, such as a first, second, or other end, which can be or include opposing ends or longitudinally opposed ends. For example, the test connection or plug can have one end that is at least partially disposed within a solenoid enclosure or other valve enclosure and another end that is at least partially disposed outside the enclosure. In at least one embodiment, the one or more test leads can be adapted for removable coupling with one or more components of the valve, which can include one or more other electrical components of the valve, such as a solenoid coil or wiring, terminal blocks, or other valve components for supporting operation of a valve actuator, such as a solenoid actuator. One or more electrical couplers can be at least partially embedded or otherwise disposed in the plug of the test connection. In at least one embodiment, the plug can be at least partially elastomeric. In at least one embodiment, the plug or test connection can be configured for threaded coupling with the conduit opening, such as by having male or female threads adapted to engage mating threads on or in the conduit opening or one or more valve components coupled thereto or therewith. In at least one embodiment, the plugs, in whole or in part, separately or in combination, can be adapted to mate with the conduit opening by a press fit, such as an interference fit or friction fit.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the test connection or a portion thereof, such as a plug, can have one or more outer dimensions, such as a major dimension, a minor dimension, or another dimension. In at least one embodiment, the plug can have a dimension or cross-sectional area that varies along its length (or another dimension or direction). In at least one embodiment, a portion of the plug, such as an end or other portion, can have an outer dimension or other dimension that is larger or smaller than a dimension of another portion of the plug, including another end of the plug.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the test connection or a portion thereof, such as a plug, can be at least partially cylindrical. For example, at least a portion between the two ends of the plug, which can include one or more of the ends or portions thereof, can be at least partially cylindrical. The plug can, but does not have to, have one or more ribs, such as annular or other ribs, extending radially outward from the outer surface or other portion thereof. As another example, the plug can, but does not have to, have one or more other ribs, such as linear ribs, extending radially outward from the outer service or other portion thereof. For example, the plug can have one or more linear or other ribs parallel or approximately parallel to its axis, such as a central longitudinal axis, and the one or more ribs can, but does not have to, intersect with one or more other ribs, such as one or more annular ribs (if present). In at least one embodiment of a plug having multiple ribs, two or more ribs can have a height or other dimension relative to the outer surface or other portion of the test connection. The two or more ribs can have the same or different heights or other dimensions. For example, in at least one embodiment, one or more annular ribs can have different dimensions than one or more linear ribs, which can include being taller or shorter than such ribs, in whole or in part, separately or in combination. Two or more ribs can intersect along a portion of the body of the test connection or plug, but this is not required. In at least one according to the embodiment, the test connection or plug can include two or more ribs that are at least partially perpendicular or orthogonal to one another. As another example, two or more ribs can be at least partially parallel to one another.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, a valve, such as a solenoid valve, can include an enclosure or housing, such as a solenoid enclosure, having one or more conduit openings for routing one or more wires or other conduits thereto or through it. For example, the conduit openings or other openings can be adapted to allow the wires or other conduits to communicate with one or more components inside the valve enclosure or housing, and to communicate with one or more components or valve system components disposed outside the valve enclosure or housing, such as, for example, a valve control or monitoring device, or, as another example, one or more other valves. A valve, such as a solenoid valve or other type of valve, can include one or more test connections coupled thereto or adapted to be coupled thereto, which can be or include any test connection according to the present disclosure.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, a method of configuring a valve, such as a solenoid valve, for installation or operation can include providing a test connection for coupling thereto. This can be a valve, such as a solenoid valve, that can have an enclosure, such as a solenoid enclosure, coupled to a valve body, and can have one or more conduit openings in fluid communication with a portion of the valve. The conduit opening can be adapted to have one or more wires or other conduits disposed therethrough, and in at least one embodiment can be any portion of the valve enclosure or housing, or can be at least partially disposed in a cover or other portion of the valve that can include it. In at least one embodiment, a method of configuring a solenoid valve, such as for shipping, testing, operation, or installation, can include providing a test connection or a plurality of test connections. The one or more test connections can include a plug adapted to be removably coupled to the conduit opening, one or more electrical couplers that can be coupled to the plug, and one or more test leads electrically coupled to the one or more electrical couplers. The test leads can have first and other ends for electrical communication with a solenoid coil of the solenoid valve and / or one or more other electrical components of the valve, whether or not it is a solenoid valve. The method may include removably coupling a plug to a conduit having and removably coupling at least one of a plurality of test leads in electrical communication with a solenoid coil or other electrical component.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the method can include sealingly coupling one or more plugs to one or more conduit openings of the valve, which can be or can include a fully or partially watertight coupling, such as to at least minimize the ingress or egress of water, moisture, dust or other foreign matter into or out of the valve enclosure housing. In at least one embodiment, the method can include coupling one or more plugs to a valve cover and coupling the cover to a valve enclosure or housing. The method can include coupling at least one wire in electrical communication with one or more electrical couplers of a test connection. The method can include testing a valve, such as a solenoid valve, without disconnecting the test connection from the valve, or, as another example, without disconnecting a cover or other removable housing or enclosure portion from the valve. The method can include disconnecting one or more test leads from one or more valve components and removing the test connection from the valve. The method can include replacing the one or more test connections with a wire harness or other component routed in or through the conduit opening, such as one or more wires or components associated with a permanent installation of the valve in a valve system or otherwise. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve test connection according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another of many embodiments of a valve test connection according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a solenoid valve having a test connection according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] The figures above and the following written description of specific structures and functions are not presented to limit the scope of applicant's invention or the scope of the appended claims. Rather, the figures and written description are provided to teach one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention for which patent protection is sought. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that not all features of the commercial embodiments of the present disclosure have been described or shown for clarity and understanding. One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the present disclosure may require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goals for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, but may not be limited to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related, and other constraints, which may vary depending on the particular implementation, location, and time. While the developer's efforts may be complex and time-consuming in absolute terms, such efforts are nevertheless routine undertakings for those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The embodiments disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms. The use of a single term such as "a" is not intended to limit the number of items, including, but not limited to, "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "down," "up," "side," "first," "second" ("third" onward), "inlet," "outlet," and other related terms, including, but not limited to, are used in the written description for clarity with specific reference to the figures, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the appended claims, unless otherwise specified.Terms such as "couple," "coupled," "coupling," "coupler," and the like, are used broadly herein and may include any method or device for fastening, joining, coupling, fastening, attaching, mating, inserting, forming on or in, communicating with, or otherwise associating one or more members together with an intermediate element, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operably, directly or indirectly, and may further include, but is not limited to, integrally forming one member with another member in a unitary manner. Coupling may occur in any direction, including rotationally. The terms "including" and "such" are exemplary and not limiting, and the term "can" means "can, but need not be," unless otherwise specified. Notwithstanding any other language in this disclosure, the embodiments shown in the drawings are examples presented for purposes of illustration and description, and are not the only embodiments of the subject matter herein.

[0015] Applicant has created a system and method for an improved valve, such as a solenoid valve, having advantageous features for testing prior to final installation into a valve system or other fluid control system. The valve may include one or more test connections, including plugs and electrical connections, which may be installed at a factory by the valve manufacturer, for example, prior to shipping or other distribution of the valve. The one or more test connections may support testing of the valve or one or more valve components, such as a solenoid actuator or solenoid coil, one or more times prior to final or permanent installation of the valve, without the need for extra disassembly and / or reassembly of the valve enclosure or housing, which may risk increasing the possibility of valve failure or operational problems due to damage to the valve or parts of the valve, such as seals or enclosures. The test connections may be adapted to temporarily seal the valve enclosure between manufacture and installation, to support testing of the valve between manufacture and installation, and for easy removal upon final installation of the valve into a fluid control system.

[0016] The systems and methods of the present disclosure can provide a cost-effective solution to the problem of minimizing the risk of valve damage between valve manufacture and final installation. The test connection can include a relatively inexpensive plug connector built into a conduit protector with a pigtail or other lead connection, allowing testing of the valve without potentially repeated disassembly and reassembly of the valve cover or enclosure. For example, at the factory, a test connection according to the present disclosure can be bonded to a conduit opening of a solenoid enclosure before the enclosure cover is installed. A temporary pigtail lead can be wired to a terminal connection of one or more components, such as a solenoid coil. An enclosure cover can then be installed on the housing to seal the assembly. In at least one embodiment, the test connection can include a relatively inexpensive, commercially available power plug connection, allowing a customer or the like to use a commercially available cord set to apply power to the solenoid valve and test its operation without the need to open or disassemble the solenoid enclosure. One example of such a commercially available connection is the International Electrotechnical Commission ("IEC") 60320 C8 "figure 8" plug or connector, although many other configurations or options are available. Upon final installation, the installer can remove the test connection, which does not need to be disposable. The installer can then perform the final wiring of the solenoid valve with confidence that no damage has occurred to the valve between the time of manufacture and installation.

[0017] FIG 1 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve test connection according to the present disclosure. FIG 2 is another perspective view of many embodiments of a valve test connection according to the present disclosure. FIG 3 is a top cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a solenoid valve having a test connection according to the present disclosure. FIGs 1-3 are described in relation to each other.

[0018] 3, a valve 300, such as a solenoid valve, can have one or more enclosures 302 or housings for at least partially containing or otherwise supporting a valve actuator 303, such as a solenoid actuator. The enclosure 302 can include one or more conduit openings 304, such as holes, openings, or other passages, for receiving or routing wires, conduits, and / or other components to or from one or more portions of the valve 300, and for supporting communication or other functions between internal and external components of the valve 300 or of a system in which the valve 300 may be incorporated (e.g., a valve control or monitoring device, or one or more other valves). A test connection 100, such as a fitting, connector, coupler, or other connection for testing the valve, can be adapted to removably, permanently, or otherwise couple with one or more conduit openings 304 and / or the enclosure 302, and can be adapted to support valve testing, as described further below.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, a test connection 100 according to the present disclosure can include a body 102, such as a casing, encapsulation, or housing, for enclosing, protecting, or otherwise supporting one or more other components of the test connection 100. The test connection 100 can include one or more ends, such as a first, second, or other end, which can be or include opposing ends or longitudinally opposed ends. For example, the test connection 100 can have one end 103a for being at least partially disposed within the valve enclosure 302 or conduit opening 304, and another end 103b for being at least partially disposed outside the enclosure.

[0020] The body 102 can be a single unitary body or can include multiple body portions coupled together and can be formed in any shape, size, or manner for coupling with an opening of the valve 300, such as the conduit opening 304 (see FIG. 3), in accordance with the implementation of the present disclosure. For example, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 1-3 for illustrative purposes, which are some of many, the body 102 can be at least partially cylindrical or generally cylindrical. However, this need not be the case, and instead, or collectively, the body 102 can be or include, in whole or in part, another shape, such as a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, or otherwise it can have any number of sides in accordance with the implementation of the present disclosure. As another example, the body 102, or a portion thereof, can be in whole or in part, an elliptical, rectangular, or irregular shape. The body 102 can be adapted for coupling with one or more conduit openings 304 (see FIG. 3).

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the body 102 can include multiple body portions, such as a first body portion 102a and a second body portion 102b. The body portions 102a, 102b (if present) can be integrally formed or separately formed and coupled to one another, either separately or in combination with one or more other portions of the body 102 (if present). For example, the first body portion 102a can be or include a plug or insert adapted to be disposed at least partially within and / or through the conduit opening 304, and the second body portion 102b can be a top or cap for engaging with the enclosure 302 or a portion thereof, such as a cover 306 having the conduit opening 304 therein or in fluid communication with the conduit opening 304 (e.g., a tube, tubing, insulation, or other structure (not shown) for supporting or routing one or more wires). For example, portion 102b can have a contact surface 104 for contacting an exterior surface 308 of enclosure 302 around conduit opening 304. Contact surface 104 can be or include an exterior surface or other surface of portion 102b, or, as another example, can be or include a seal, such as an O-ring or grommet, for sealingly engaging enclosure 302 or a portion thereof. In just one such embodiment among many, portion 102b can have an outer dimension D that is greater than outer dimension d of first body portion 102a (such dimension can be, but is not required to be, a diameter).

[0022] The test connection 100 can be made from any material, in whole or in part, individually or in combination, according to a particular implementation of the present disclosure. For example, the test connection 100 or a portion thereof, such as the first body portion 102a and / or the second body portion 102b, can be made from rubber or another elastomeric material. As another example, all or a portion of the test connection 100 can be made from a more rigid material, such as plastic, metal, or another material. In at least one embodiment, the body 102 can have a size, shape, or cross-sectional area that varies along its length (or another dimension or direction). In at least one embodiment, a portion of the body 102, such as the end 103a, 103b or another portion, can have an outer dimension or other dimension that is larger or smaller than the dimension of another portion of the body 102, which can be or include another end 103a, 103b.

[0023] In at least one embodiment, the test connection 100 can be adapted to at least partially resist coupling to and removal from the enclosure 302 and / or the conduit opening 304. For example, the test connection 100 or a portion thereof, e.g., one or both of the body portions 102a, 102b, can include or be adapted to couple with one or more couplers for coupling with one or more valve components or for otherwise supporting coupling of the test connection 100 and the valve 300. As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, which is but one of many, the test connection 100 can include one or more ribs 108, such as tongues or extensions, for cooperating with the valve 300 or a portion thereof when the test connection 100 is coupled thereto. In such an embodiment, which can be, but need not be, at least partially made from an elastomeric material, the test connection 100 can include one or more annular ribs 108a for engaging with at least a portion of the conduit opening 304, such as, for example, the inner surface 310. Alternatively, or collectively, the test connection 100 may include one or more linear ribs 108b for engaging the enclosure 302 or the conduit opening 304. The ribs 108a, 108b (collectively, ribs 108) may extend radially outward from the body 102, such as about the central longitudinal axis X, such that, for example, a major dimension D of the body portion 102a or a portion thereof is equal to or greater than a dimension d1 of the conduit opening 304, such as an inner diameter or other internal dimension. In this manner, the one or more ribs 108 may be deformed or compressed by or otherwise engage the conduit opening 304 or another portion of the enclosure 302 when coupled therewith, and may at least partially resist loosening or removal therefrom, particularly unintentional removal due to external forces such as vibration, movement during shipping, and the like.However, in at least one embodiment, the test connection 100 can have one or more ribs 108 to at least partially resist relatively large removal forces, which can include intentional removal forces, such as by having one or more ribs 108 adapted to plastically or otherwise deform upon insertion or other coupling of the test connection 100 with the enclosure 302.

[0024] In embodiments having multiple ribs 108, two or more ribs 108 can have the same or different shapes and / or sizes as each other. For example, one or more ribs 108 can have a dimension d2, such as a height or other dimension, and one or more other ribs can have a dimension d3, where dimensions d2 and d3 can be the same or different from each other. For example, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, one or more linear ribs 108b can have a dimension d3 relative to the exterior surface of the body 102 that is greater than the dimension d2 of one or more annular ribs 108a. However, this need not be the case, and any of the ribs 108 can have any dimension or shape in accordance with the implementation of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, one or more ribs 108 can be adapted to couple with the conduit opening 304 by press fit, interference fit, or friction fit, in whole or in part, separately, or in combination with each other or with other coupling features. In at least one embodiment, one or more ribs 108 can be adapted to support coupling with the conduit opening 304 in yet other or additional ways. For example, one or more ribs 108, such as linear rib 108b, may be adapted to support alignment of the test connection 100 with the conduit opening 304, such as by mating or aligning with one or more corresponding grooves (not shown) in or on the enclosure 302 or opening 304.

[0025] The ribs 108 can be arranged or configured in any shape, pattern, or orientation according to the implementation of the present disclosure. For example, one or more linear ribs 108b or other ribs can be, but need not be, parallel to one another (including approximately parallel) and / or to an axis, such as the central longitudinal axis X, or other portions of the body 102, and can intersect with one or more other ribs, such as one or more annular ribs 108a (if present). Two or more ribs 108 can intersect along a portion of the body 102 or the test connection 100, but need not. In at least one embodiment, the test connection 100 can include two or more ribs 108 that are at least partially perpendicular or orthogonal to one another (including approximately perpendicular or orthogonal). As another example, two or more ribs 108a can be at least partially parallel to one another. Any of the ribs 108 can be continuous or segmented and can be arranged in any number along any portion of the body 102.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the test connection 100 can be adapted for coupling with the enclosure 302 or the conduit opening 304, and in one or more different or additional ways. For example, the test connection 100 can include one or more couplers 110, separately or in combination with one or more ribs 108 (if present), for coupling with an interior or other portion of the opening 304. In at least one embodiment, the couplers 110 can be or include threads for engaging with mating threads of the conduit opening 304. In at least one embodiment, the couplers 110 can be or include ridges or other extensions that elastically or plastically deform upon coupling of the test connection 100 with the conduit opening 304. As other examples, test connection 100 according to the present disclosure may include or be adapted to cooperate with one or more other couplers or coupler types, including, but not limited to, fasteners such as screws, bolts or other commercially available fasteners, adhesives, quarter-turn couplers, tongue and groove couplers, or other coupling structures, either separately or in combination with each other and / or with one or more of ribs 108 or couplers 110.

[0027] In at least one embodiment, the test connection 100 can include one or more electrical couplers 112, such as male or female plugs, connectors, or receptacles, for enabling or otherwise supporting electrical communication within or through the test connection 100. The couplers 112 can be or include one or more terminals 114, such as electrodes or pins, for conducting or transmitting electricity or electrical signals. The couplers 112 can be or include any electrical connector or connection, in accordance with implementations of the invention, including, but not limited to, one or more male or female "figure 8" or other plug or connection types known in the art. The test connection 100 can include one or more wires 116, such as test leads, pigtails, or other electrical or signal transmission media, such as fiber optic cables or other signal conduits, coupled to the one or more electrical couplers 112 for routing electricity or signals to and from the valve 300. For example, each wire 116 may have one end 118a for coupling or being coupled in communication with one or more components of the valve 300, such as, for example, the solenoid coil 312 (if present) or other electrical valve components, and the other end 118b coupled to the electrical coupler 112 or a portion thereof, such as, for example, the terminal 114. In such an embodiment, the test connection 100 may, but need not, include one or more electrical connectors 120, such as crimp connectors, spade connectors, or other types of connectors, coupled to the one or more wires 116 and adapted for coupling with the valve 300 or a component thereof, such as, for example, the solenoid coil 312 (if present) or another electrical component (e.g., the terminal block 314). The electrical coupler 112 may be coupled to the body 102 in any manner in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure, which may, but need not, include being integrally formed therewith, by being embedded or molded therein, in whole or in part, separately or in combination.

[0028] With continued reference to the figures, one or more methods according to the present disclosure will be described in further detail. In at least one embodiment, one or more test connections 100 can be provided or arranged to couple with one or more conduit openings 304 of the valve 300 and / or with another portion thereof, such as the valve enclosure 302 or cover 306. In at least one embodiment, a method of configuring a valve 300, such as a solenoid valve or other electrically or electronically actuated or controlled valve, for installation or operation can include providing one or more test connections 100 for coupling therewith and / or coupling one or more test connections 100 thereto. In at least one embodiment, the method can include configuring the valve 300 for shipping, testing, operation, or installation, which can include providing a test connection 100 or multiple test connections 100. The method can include removably coupling the test connection 100 to the conduit opening and removably coupling at least one of a plurality of wires 116, such as a test lead, that electrically communicates with the solenoid coil or other electrical component of the valve 300.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, the method can include sealingly coupling one or more test connections 100 to one or more conduit openings 304 of the valve 300, which can be or can include a full or partial watertight coupling, such as to at least minimize the ingress or egress of water, moisture, dust or other foreign matter into or out of the valve enclosure 302. In at least one embodiment, the method can include coupling one or more test connections 100 to a valve cover 306 and coupling the cover 306 to the valve enclosure 302 or other housing. The method can include coupling at least one wire 116 in electrical communication with one or more electrical couplers 112 of the test connections 100. The method can include testing a valve 300, such as a solenoid valve, without disconnecting the test connections 100 from the valve 300, or as another example, without disconnecting the cover 306 or a removable housing or enclosure portion from the valve 300. The method may include disconnecting one or more wires 116 from one or more valve components and removing the test connection 100 from the valve 300. The method may include replacing the one or more test connections 100 with a wiring harness or other component routed in or through the conduit opening 304, such as one or more wires or components associated with a permanent installation of the valve 300 in a valve system or otherwise.

[0030] A valve, such as a solenoid valve, may have one or more enclosures or housings and one or more valve bodies and may include one or more conduit openings, such as holes or other passages, for receiving or routing wires, conduits and / or other components to or from one or more portions of the valve. A test connection, such as a fitting, connector, coupler or other connection for testing the valve, may be adapted to mate removably, permanently or otherwise with one or more conduit openings. In at least one embodiment, the test connection may include a plug, such as an at least partially elastomeric and / or rigid plug, for mating with the conduit opening, in whole or in part, individually or in combination, such as by press fit, interference fit, friction fit, threads, or other coupling means. The test connection may include one or more electrical couplers coupled to the plug, such as terminals, male or female plug connectors, or other structures for conducting or transmitting electricity or electrical signals. The test connection may include one or more test leads coupled to one or more electrical couplers, such as wires, pigtails, or other electrical leads. In at least one embodiment, the one or more test leads can have one end for coupling to a component of the valve, such as, for example, a solenoid coil or other electrical component of a solenoid valve, and another end for coupling to the plug or a portion thereof, such as an electrical coupler coupled to the plug. The electrical coupler can be coupled to the plug in one or more ways, which can include, but is not required to be, integrally formed with the plug, such as by being embedded or molded therein.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, the plug can be adapted to sealingly couple with one or more conduit openings to at least partially restrict the inlet or outlet of water, moisture, or other materials into or out of the valve, which includes, but is not required to include, the use of one or more gaskets or seals. In at least one embodiment, but only one of many, the plug can be at least partially made from rubber or another elastomeric material and can be sized and shaped to sealingly couple with the conduit openings when inserted into and / or otherwise coupled to the conduit openings, which can include having any size or shape depending on the implementation of the present disclosure. For example, the plug can have the same or similar shape as the corresponding conduit opening and can have a larger outer dimension or cross-sectional area than the conduit openings, yet still be flexible enough to at least partially fit within the conduit openings and sealingly engage the openings or structures in which the openings reside. The plug can have, but is not required to have, one or more extensions or other outwardly extending structures on its exterior service to support coupling and / or sealing engagement with the conduit openings.

[0032] The test connection can include one or more ends, such as a first, second, or other end, which can be or include opposing ends or longitudinally opposed ends. For example, the test connection or plug can have one end that is at least partially disposed within a solenoid enclosure or other valve enclosure and another end that is at least partially disposed outside the enclosure. In at least one embodiment, the one or more test leads can be adapted for removable coupling with one or more components of the valve, which can include one or more other electrical components of the valve, such as a solenoid coil or wiring, terminal blocks, or other valve components for supporting operation of a valve actuator, such as a solenoid actuator. One or more electrical couplers can be at least partially embedded or otherwise disposed in the plug of the test connection. In at least one embodiment, the plug can be at least partially elastomeric. In at least one embodiment, the plug or test connection can be configured for threaded coupling with the conduit opening, such as by having male or female threads adapted to engage mating threads on or in the conduit opening or one or more valve components coupled thereto or therewith. In at least one embodiment, the plugs, in whole or in part, separately or in combination, can be adapted to mate with the conduit opening by a press fit, such as an interference fit or friction fit.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, the test connection or a portion thereof, such as a plug, can have one or more outer dimensions, such as a major dimension, a minor dimension, or another dimension. In at least one embodiment, the plug can have a dimension or cross-sectional area that varies along its length (or another dimension or direction). In at least one embodiment, a portion of the plug, such as an end or other portion, can have an outer dimension or other dimension that is larger or smaller than a dimension of another portion of the plug, including another end of the plug.

[0034] In at least one embodiment, the test connection or a portion thereof, such as a plug, can be at least partially cylindrical. For example, at least a portion between the two ends of the plug, which can include one or more of the ends or portions thereof, can be at least partially cylindrical. The plug can, but does not have to, have one or more ribs, such as annular or other ribs, extending radially outward from the outer surface or other portion thereof. As another example, the plug can, but does not have to, have one or more other ribs, such as linear ribs, extending radially outward from the outer service or other portion thereof. For example, the plug can have one or more linear or other ribs parallel or approximately parallel to its axis, such as a central longitudinal axis, and the one or more ribs can, but does not have to, intersect with one or more other ribs, such as one or more annular ribs (if present). In at least one embodiment of a plug having multiple ribs, two or more ribs can have a height or other dimension relative to the outer surface or other portion of the test connection. The two or more ribs can have the same or different heights or other dimensions. For example, in at least one embodiment, one or more annular ribs can have different dimensions than one or more linear ribs, which can include being taller or shorter than such ribs, in whole or in part, separately or in combination. Two or more ribs can intersect along a portion of the body of the test connection or plug, but this is not required. In at least one according to the embodiment, the test connection or plug can include two or more ribs that are at least partially perpendicular or orthogonal to one another. As another example, two or more ribs can be at least partially parallel to one another.

[0035] In at least one embodiment, a valve, such as a solenoid valve, can include an enclosure or housing, such as a solenoid enclosure, having one or more conduit openings for routing one or more wires or other conduits thereto or through it. For example, the conduit openings or other openings can be adapted to allow the wires or other conduits to communicate with one or more components inside the valve enclosure or housing, and to communicate with one or more components or valve system components disposed outside the valve enclosure or housing, such as, for example, a valve control or monitoring device, or, as another example, one or more other valves. A valve, such as a solenoid valve or other type of valve, can include one or more test connections coupled thereto or adapted to be coupled thereto, which can be or include any test connection according to the present disclosure.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, a method of configuring a valve, such as a solenoid valve, for installation or operation can include providing a test connection for coupling thereto. A valve, such as a solenoid valve, can have an enclosure, such as a solenoid enclosure, coupled to a valve body and can have one or more conduit openings in fluid communication with a portion of the valve. The conduit opening can be adapted to have one or more wires or other conduits disposed therethrough and can be, in at least one embodiment, at least partially disposed in a cover or other portion of the valve, which can be or can be any portion of the valve enclosure or housing. In at least one embodiment, a method of configuring a solenoid valve, such as for shipping, testing, operation, or installation, can include providing a test connection or a plurality of test connections. The one or more test connections can include a plug adapted to be removably coupled to the conduit opening, one or more electrical couplers that can be coupled to the plug, and one or more test leads electrically coupled to the one or more electrical couplers. The test leads can have first and other ends for electrical communication with a solenoid coil of the solenoid valve and / or one or more other electrical components of the valve, whether or not the valve is a solenoid valve. The method may include removably coupling a plug to a conduit having and removably coupling at least one of a plurality of test leads in electrical communication with a solenoid coil or other electrical component.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the method can include sealingly coupling one or more plugs to one or more conduit openings of the valve, which can be or can include a fully or partially watertight coupling, such as to at least minimize the ingress or egress of water, moisture, dust or other foreign matter into or out of the valve enclosure housing. In at least one embodiment, the method can include coupling one or more plugs to a valve cover and coupling the cover to a valve enclosure or housing. The method can include coupling at least one wire in electrical communication with one or more electrical couplers of a test connection. The method can include testing a valve, such as a solenoid valve, without disconnecting the test connection from the valve, or, as another example, without disconnecting a cover or other removable housing or enclosure portion from the valve. The method can include disconnecting one or more test leads from one or more valve components and removing the test connection from the valve. The method can include replacing the one or more test connections with a wire harness or other component routed in or through the conduit opening, such as one or more wires or components associated with a permanent installation of the valve in a valve system or otherwise.

[0038] Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the systems and methods disclosed herein may be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicant's disclosure. For example, the systems and methods disclosed herein may be used alone or to form one or more portions of other valves, valve components, and / or fluid control systems. Additionally, the various methods and embodiments of test connections may be included in combination with one another to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. A description of a singular element may include a plural element and vice versa. A reference to at least one item followed by a reference to an item may include one or more items. Additionally, various aspects of the embodiments may be used in combination with one another to achieve the realized goals of the present disclosure.

[0039] Unless the context dictates otherwise, the words "comprise," "include," and "has" (including variations and conjugations such as "comprises," "including," "have") include at least the recited elements or steps or groups of elements or steps, or equivalents, and do not exclude greater or other elements or steps or groups of elements or steps, or equivalents thereof. The devices, apparatuses, and systems can be used in many orientations and directions. The sequence of steps can occur in various orders, unless otherwise limited. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interconnected with the recited steps, and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements are described functionally and can be embodied as separate components and / or combined into components having multiple functions. The term "fluid" as used herein includes any substance or material capable of flowing, such as, for example, liquids, gases, and combinations thereof (whether or not one or more solids or other non-fluids may be present therein).

[0040] The embodiments are described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not all embodiments of Applicant's disclosure are described. Obvious modifications and variations to the described embodiments will be available to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of Applicant's disclosure, but rather, in accordance with the patent laws, Applicant intends to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that are within the scope or range of equivalence of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A test connection structure for a solenoid valve having a solenoid enclosure coupled to a valve body, the solenoid enclosure having a conduit opening configured to have a wire disposed therethrough, the test connection structure comprising: A plug configured to be removably coupled to a conduit opening, comprising: the plug has a first end configured to be disposed outside the solenoid enclosure and a longitudinally opposed second end configured to be disposed inside the solenoid enclosure when the test connection structure is coupled to the solenoid enclosure; the first end of the plug has an outer dimension that is greater than an outer dimension of the second end of the plug; a plug, at least a portion of which between the first and second ends of the plug is cylindrical and includes a plurality of annular ribs extending radially outward therefrom; an electrical coupler coupled to the plug; a plurality of test leads; Each of the plurality of test leads has a first end configured to be wired in electrical communication with a solenoid coil of the solenoid valve and a second end electrically coupled to the electrical coupler; A test connection structure, wherein each of a plurality of test leads is configured to be secured only at the first end and the second end of the test lead.

2. The test connection of claim 1 , wherein the plug is configured to sealingly mate with the conduit opening.

3. The test connection structure of claim 1 , wherein the test lead is configured to be removably coupled in electrical communication with a solenoid coil.

4. 10. The test connection structure of claim 1, wherein the electrical coupler is at least partially embedded in the plug.

5. 2. The test connection structure of claim 1, wherein the plug is elastomeric.

6. 10. The test connection of claim 1, wherein the plug is configured to be threadably coupled to the conduit opening.

7. 10. The test connection of claim 1, wherein the plug is configured to mate with the conduit opening by a press fit.

8. 10. The test connection structure of claim 1, further comprising at least one linear rib extending radially outward from the cylindrical portion of the plug.

9. The test connection structure of claim 8 , wherein the at least one linear rib has a height greater than a height of at least one of the plurality of annular ribs.

10. The test connection structure of claim 8 , wherein the at least one linear rib intersects with at least one of the plurality of annular ribs.

11. The test connection structure of claim 8 , wherein the at least one linear rib is perpendicular to at least one of the plurality of annular ribs.

12. A solenoid valve, a solenoid enclosure having a conduit opening configured to have a wire disposed therethrough; a solenoid coil disposed at least partially within the solenoid enclosure; a valve body coupled to a solenoid enclosure; a test connection coupled to the solenoid enclosure, the test connection comprising: a plug removably coupled to the conduit opening, the plug having a first end disposed outside the solenoid enclosure and a longitudinally opposed second end disposed inside the solenoid enclosure, the first end of the plug having an outer dimension greater than an outer dimension of the second end of the plug, at least a portion of the plug between the first and second ends being cylindrical and including a plurality of annular ribs extending radially outward therefrom, the plug being elastomeric; an electrical coupler coupled to the plug; a plurality of test leads; each of the plurality of test leads having a first end removably wired in electrical communication with the solenoid coil and a second end electrically coupled to the electrical coupler; each of the plurality of test leads is configured to be secured only at the first end and the second end of the test lead; Solenoid valve.

13. 1. A method of configuring a solenoid valve for installation, the solenoid valve having a solenoid enclosure configured to be coupled to a valve body and having a cover with a conduit opening configured for a wire to be disposed therethrough, the method comprising: Providing a test connection, the test connection comprising: a plug configured to be removably coupled to the conduit opening, the plug being elastomeric; an electrical coupler coupled to the plug; a plurality of test leads electrically coupled to the electrical coupler; providing a test connection, each of a plurality of test leads having a first end configured to be wired into electrical communication with a solenoid coil of a solenoid valve; removably coupling a plug to the conduit opening; removably coupling at least one of a plurality of test leads in electrical communication with the solenoid coil; and replacing the test connection with a wire harness routed through the conduit opening.

14. The method of claim 13 further comprising the step of sealingly coupling a plug to the conduit opening.

15. The method of claim 13 further comprising coupling a cover to the solenoid enclosure.

16. 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising coupling at least one wire into electrical communication with the electrical coupler; and testing the solenoid valve without disconnecting the cover from the solenoid enclosure.

17. 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of disconnecting at least one of the plurality of test leads and removing the test connection from the solenoid valve.

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