Mounting integrity detector for solenoid valves

Abstract

The solenoid valve can include a valve body and an actuator. The actuator can include an actuator housing, a coil disposed within the actuator housing, and a core tube extending from the valve body, through and beyond the actuator housing when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body. The monitoring assembly can include a target on the core tube and a detector configured to detect the target when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to valves, and more particularly to solenoid valves.

[0002] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application is a PCT application of U.S. Patent Application No. 17207430, filed March 19, 2021, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62992857, filed March 20, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Valves, such as solenoid valves, are used in many applications across a wide variety of industries. For example, fire suppression systems use valves, such as solenoid valves, controlled by fire detection or fire alarm systems to initiate fire suppression. In some such systems, a solenoid is activated to operate a release valve, releasing suppressant material and delivering the suppressant material to the fire.

[0004] Such solenoid valves, for example those used in fire suppression systems, are periodically tested to ensure that the magnetic coils contained therein are operating properly. During this test, the magnetic coils are removed from the solenoid valve and then reinstalled. If any of the magnetic coils are not reinstalled properly (or not reinstalled at all), problems can occur.

[0005] In this regard, the National Fire Protection Association has passed requirements that these fire suppression systems be "supervised" and provide warnings or indications of system impairment. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved devices, systems, and methods for determining and / or indicating whether a valve actuator is properly installed. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can include a valve body and an actuator. The valve body can include an inlet and an outlet for selective flow through the valve. The actuator can be coupled to the valve body and configured to control flow from the inlet to the outlet. In at least one embodiment, the actuator includes an actuator housing, a coil disposed within the actuator housing, and a core tube. In at least one embodiment, when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body, a portion of the core tube can extend through the coil and another portion of the core tube can extend beyond the coil. In at least one embodiment, when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body, the core tube extends from the valve body through the actuator housing and the coil.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can also include a monitoring assembly that monitors whether the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly includes a target on the core tube and a detector configured to detect whether the target is present. The detector and target can be positioned such that the detector can detect the target when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector cannot detect the target when the actuator is improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether a target is detected. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether the actuator is properly or improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector can include a switch or other sensor, such as a mechanical microswitch or a magnetic proximity switch. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a cam or other target profile on the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can be integral with the core tube or affixed to the end of the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a ferromagnetic metal, and the remainder of the core tube can be non-ferromagnetic. In at least one embodiment, the detector and / or target can be housed within or external to the actuator housing. In at least one embodiment, the detector is located on the actuator housing and the target is located on the core tube. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a side view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a side view, with a portion cut away, of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3A]FIG. 3A is a top view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure with a portion of the monitoring assembly cut away. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a top view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure with a portion of the monitoring assembly cut away. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a top view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure with a portion of the monitoring assembly cut away. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a side view, with a portion cut away, of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a top cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a simplified cross-sectional side view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of one of many embodiments of a monitoring assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional side view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube and detector according to the present disclosure. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube according to the present disclosure. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is an exploded view of the core tube of FIG. 13A. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is an exploded view of the core tube of FIG. 14A. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of one of many embodiments of a circuit for an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of one of many embodiments of a circuit for an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The above-described drawings and the following written descriptions 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 drawings and written descriptions are provided to teach those skilled in the art to make and use the invention for which patent protection is sought. Those skilled in the art will understand that not all features of a commercial embodiment of the invention have been described or shown for clarity and understanding. Those skilled in the art will also understand that development of an actual commercial embodiment incorporating aspects of the invention will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goals for the commercial embodiment. Such implementation-specific decisions may include, but are not 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 effort may be complex and time-consuming in absolute terms, such an effort is nevertheless a routine undertaking for those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. It should be understood that the invention disclosed and taught herein is susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms. The use of singular terms, such as, but not limited to, "a," is not intended to limit the number of items. Also, the use of relative terms such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "below," "over," "side," and the like, when used in the written description, clarify specific reference to the drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims. The terms "including" and "including" are exemplary and not limiting.

[0011] The terms "couple," "coupled," "coupling," "coupler," and the like are used broadly herein and can include any method or device for securing, joining, connecting, fastening, attaching, joining, inserting therein, forming on or within, communicating with, or otherwise associating one or more members together, for example, mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, operable, directly or indirectly through an intermediate element, and can further include, without limitation, integrally forming one functional member with another member. Coupling can occur in any direction, including rotationally.

[0012] Applicant has invented new and useful devices, assemblies, systems, and methods for determining and / or indicating whether a valve actuator (e.g., an electromagnetic actuator or coil) is properly installed. In at least one embodiment, an actuator for a solenoid valve may include at least one of a switch and a sensor that determines and / or indicates whether the actuator is coupled to at least one of a valve body, an armature, and a core tube (which may include determining and / or indicating whether the actuator is properly installed to support valve operation). In at least one embodiment, the actuator or a system coupled to the actuator may be configured to signal or otherwise indicate whether the actuator is coupled to and / or detached from one or more other components of the valve (e.g., the valve body, the armature, the core tube). In at least one embodiment, the valve may be configured to provide or otherwise cause at least one of an audible and a visual indication if the actuator is not coupled to and / or not properly coupled to one or more other components of the valve. In at least one embodiment, a valve actuator, such as a solenoid valve actuator, can include an indicator assembly that indicates whether the actuator is coupled to at least one of a valve body, an armature, and a core tube. The indicator assembly can include an indicator configured to provide an indication based on communication with the core tube or a component coupled to the core tube. The indicator or indicator assembly can include at least one of a switch and a sensor. The indicator or indicator assembly can include a stem having a first end configured to contact the core tube and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end, and a switch. The stem can be biased away from the switch. The stem can be configured to open or close the switch when the stem is in contact with or out of contact with the core tube, a portion of the core tube, or a component coupled to the core tube.The sensor can be configured to open or close a switch in response to sensing communication with a component, such as the core tube or one or more targets coupled to the core tube. The sensor can be or include optical, magnetic, mechanical, and / or other types of sensors, individually or in combination. In at least one embodiment, the stem or sensor can be configured to communicate with a cam, tang, groove, shoulder, other profile or target on the outer surface of the core tube or disposed within or on the core tube.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can include a valve body and an actuator. The valve body can include an inlet and an outlet for selective flow through the valve. The actuator can be coupled to the valve body and configured to control flow from the inlet to the outlet. In at least one embodiment, the actuator includes an actuator housing, a coil disposed within the actuator housing, and a core tube. In at least one embodiment, when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body, a portion of the core tube can extend through the coil and another portion can extend beyond the coil. In at least one embodiment, the core tube extends from the valve body through the actuator housing and the coil when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can also include a monitoring assembly that monitors whether the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly includes a target on the core tube and a detector configured to detect whether the target is present. The detector and target can be positioned such that the detector can detect the target when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector cannot detect the target when the actuator is improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether a target is detected. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether the actuator is properly or improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector can include a switch or other sensor, such as a mechanical microswitch or a magnetic proximity switch. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a cam or other target profile on the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can be integral with the core tube or affixed to the end of the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a ferromagnetic metal, with the remainder of the core tube being non-ferromagnetic. In at least one embodiment, the detector and / or target can be housed within or external to the actuator housing. In at least one embodiment, the detector is located in the actuator housing and the target is located in the core tube.

[0016] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2A is a side view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2B is a side view, with a portion cut away, of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 3A is a top view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure, with a portion cut away of a monitoring assembly. FIG. 3B is a top view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure, with a portion cut away of a monitoring assembly. FIG. 4A is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 5A is a top view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure, with a portion cut away of a monitoring assembly. FIG. 5B is a side view, with a portion cut away, of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 6A is a top cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 6B is a side cross-sectional view of a portion of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 9 is a simplified side cross-sectional view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of one of many embodiments of a monitoring assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a partially cross-sectional side view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube and detector in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 13A is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 13B is an exploded view of the core tube of FIG. 13A.FIG. 14A is a simplified diagram of one of many embodiments of a core tube according to the present disclosure. FIG. 14B is an exploded view of the core tube of FIG. 14A. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a valve and actuator system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side view of one of many embodiments of an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of one of many embodiments of a circuit for an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of one of many embodiments of a circuit for an actuator assembly according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 1-19 are described in relation to each other.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, a solenoid valve, assembly, or system 100 can include a valve assembly 102 and an actuator assembly 120. The valve assembly 102 can include a valve body 104 having an inlet 106 and an outlet 108 for selective flow through the valve 102. In at least one embodiment, the valve body 104 includes a diaphragm valve 110 operated by a pilot valve 112 controlled by a spring-loaded armature 114.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly 120 can be coupled to the valve body 104 and configured to control flow from the inlet 106 to the outlet 108. In at least one embodiment, the actuator assembly 120 includes an actuator housing 122, a coil 124 disposed within the actuator housing 122, and a core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the actuator housing 122 and the coil 124 can include a hole or passageway through which the core tube 126, or a portion thereof, can extend. In at least one embodiment, the core tube 126 is fixed to the valve body 104, and the spring-loaded armature 114 that controls the pilot valve 112 rides within the core tube 126.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, the actuator housing 122 can be slid onto the core tube 126, with the core tube 126 extending through the passageway of the actuator housing, to abut against the spring 128 adjacent the valve body 104. In at least one embodiment, the actuator housing 122 can be secured to the core tube 126 by pressing the actuator housing 122 against the valve body 104, compressing the spring 128, and sliding the nameplate 130 under a lip, groove, or recess 132 near the distal end of the core tube 126. Once properly positioned, the nameplate 130 can hold the actuator housing 122 to the core tube 126 against the spring 128. A decorative and / or protective cap 134 can be placed over the distal end of the core tube 126. The actuator housing 122 can be removed from the valve body 104 by reversing this process. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the actuator 120, or components thereof, such as the actuator housing 122 and coil 124, can be removed and replaced from the valve body 104 for service and / or maintenance. Of course, the valve body 104 can also be removed and replaced from the actuator 120 for service and / or maintenance.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, when the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104, a first portion 126a of the core tube 126 can extend through the actuator housing 122 and / or the coil 124, and a second portion 126b of the core tube 126 can extend beyond the actuator housing 122 and / or the coil 124. In at least one embodiment, the core tube 126 extends from the valve body 104 through the actuator housing 122 and the coil 124, with the actuator 120 properly attached to the valve body 104.

[0021] Although the core tube 126 is described as being part of the actuator assembly 120, in at least one embodiment, the core tube 126 can be part of the valve assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the core tube 126 is integral with the valve body 104 or a portion thereof.

[0022] The assembly 100 can also include a monitoring assembly 116 that monitors whether the actuator 120 or housing 122 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 includes a detector 150 and a target 152 positioned to verify that the actuator 120 or housing 122 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 includes a target 152 on the core tube 126 and a detector 150 configured to detect whether the target 152 is present and / or properly positioned. The detector 150 and target 152 can be positioned such that the detector 150 can detect the target 152 when the actuator 120 or housing 122 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 is unable to detect the target 152 if the actuator 120 or housing 122 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126 .

[0023] In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 is mounted to the actuator 120 or the housing 122, and therefore moves with the actuator 120 or the housing 122 when the actuator 120 or the housing 122 is removed and / or replaced relative to the valve body 104 and / or the core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the target 152 is mounted to the core tube 126, and therefore moves with the valve body 104 and / or the core tube 126 when the valve body 104 and / or the core tube 126 is removed and / or replaced relative to the actuator 120 or its housing 122.

[0024] In at least one embodiment, the target 152 is mounted to a portion 126b of the core tube 126 that extends beyond the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 when the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104. The second portion 126b of the core tube 126 that extends beyond the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 can be integral with the core tube 126 or can be an extension attached to the first portion 126a or another portion of the core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the second portion 126b of the core tube 126 includes a head 126b that is spaced from the target 152 by a spacer 126c. In at least one embodiment, the second portion 126b of the core tube 126, or a portion thereof, is secured to another portion of the core tube 126a by a threaded connection 126d. This can allow the monitoring assembly 116 to be incorporated into other valve assemblies 102 and / or actuator assemblies 120. In at least one embodiment, the target 152 is spaced from the first portion 126a of the core tube 126 by a gap 126e.

[0025] 12 , for example, when the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 are properly positioned relative to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126, detector 150a may be adjacent to and detect target 152 on the core tube 126. For example, if the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 are too far from the valve body 104 and / or too high on the core tube 126, detector 150b may be adjacent to gap 126e between target 152 and the first portion 126a of the core tube and may not be able to detect target 152. For example, if the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 are too close to the valve body 104 and / or too low on the core tube 126, detector 150c may be adjacent to spacer 126c between target 152 and head 126b of the second portion of the core tube and may not be able to detect target 152.

[0026] In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 and / or the target 152 can be contained within or external to the actuator housing 122. In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 is located within the actuator housing 122 and the target 152 is located in the core tube 126 and is also within the actuator housing 122, as shown, for example, in FIG. 9. In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 and / or the target 152 can be located external to the actuator housing 122, as shown, for example, in FIG. 15.

[0027] For example, monitoring assembly 116 can include a junction box 140 that can be mounted to actuator housing 122. Junction box 140 can include a cover 142. In at least one embodiment, detector housing 144 can be secured to junction box 140 and can protect and / or house detector 150. In at least one embodiment, detector housing 144 can also protect and / or house target 152 and / or second portion 126b. In at least one embodiment, target 152 and / or second portion 126b extend into an opening in detector housing 144. In at least one embodiment, a top of junction box 140 is substantially flush with actuator housing 122, such that detector housing 144 is positioned above actuator housing 122. In at least one embodiment, detector housing 144 can be coupled to actuator housing 122. In at least one embodiment, detector 150 is mounted on actuator housing 122 and can detect target 152 when target 152 is above or beyond actuator housing 122. In at least one embodiment, monitoring assembly 116 includes a spacer or target housing 146 that can be secured to actuator housing 122 and can protect and / or contain target 152 and / or second portion 126b. In at least one embodiment, the top of detector housing 144 can be at least substantially flush with the top of target housing 146. In at least one embodiment, target housing 146 contains or covers at least a portion of detector housing 144.

[0028] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 can include one or more gaskets 148 that seal the various housings 122, 140, 144, 146 from one another. The detector 150 can be covered, protected, or supported by a detector support 154 that can be integrated into, or otherwise part of, and / or within the detector housing 144. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 can include a terminal block 158 that can be sealed with a seal 156 within the junction box 140 and / or to the actuator housing 122. The terminal block 158 can be used to terminate or enable connections to the coil 124 and / or the detector 150.

[0029] In at least one embodiment, a communication link 160, such as a cable or wire bundle, can be connected to the coil 124 and / or detector 150 via terminal block 158. For example, the communication link 160 can include wireless communication or wired communication. In at least one embodiment, the communication link 160 can include power supply and / or communication wiring 162 that provides power to and / or controls the coil 124. In at least one embodiment, the communication link 160 can include power supply and / or communication wiring 164 that provides power to and / or controls the detector 150. In at least one embodiment, the communication link 160 can include additional wiring 166 that provides, for example, a safety and / or signal ground to the coil 124 and / or detector 150.

[0030] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 can include one or more integrity devices 168, such as resistors, that can be used to monitor the integrity of the communication link 160. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , the integrity device 168 can include a resistor that checks the continuity of the detector wiring 164.

[0031] In at least one embodiment, detector 150 can include a switch or other sensor, such as a mechanical microswitch or a magnetic proximity sensor. Examples of suitable microswitches include Honeywell's SM-series. Examples of suitable magnetic proximity sensors include those manufactured by Magnasphere and TopWorx, such as the 52M-series. In at least one embodiment, target 152 can include a cam, tongue, groove, shoulder, or other profile within core tube 126 or on the outer surface of core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, target 152 can be integral with core tube 126 or secured to an end of core tube 126, such as core tube second end 126b, as described above. In at least one embodiment, for example, if detector 150 is a magnetic proximity sensor, target 152 can include a ferromagnetic metal, a permanent magnetic material, or an electromagnetic material, and the remainder of core tube 126 can be non-magnetic. In at least one embodiment, for example, if detector 150 is a magnetic proximity sensor, target 152 can be a portion of a ferromagnetic metal, a permanent magnetic material, or an electromagnetic material, and end portion 126b and the remainder of core tube 126 can be non-magnetic. In at least one embodiment, target 152 can be a portion of end portion 126b connected to the remainder of core tube 126.

[0032] In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 is positioned to be proximate to and / or sense communication with the target 152 and / or the second portion 126b of the core tube 126 when the actuator 120 is properly or improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or the core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the detector 150 is positioned distal to the target 152 when the actuator 120 is properly or improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or the core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 7, for example, the monitoring assembly 116 can include a shaft or stem 170 that can be biased toward the core tube 126 and / or away from the detector 150 by a spring 172. The monitoring assembly 116 can also include a seal 174, such as an O-ring, that allows the shaft 170 to sealingly slide within the detector housing 144. In at least one embodiment, the shaft includes an engagement end 176 that engages with the core tube 126 as it extends through and / or beyond the actuator housing 122 and / or coil 124 and may include a ball or other bearing. When the engagement end 176 at the end of the shaft 170 engages or contacts a target 152 on the core tube 126, the shaft moves laterally or vertically into the core tube 126 and a trigger or trigger end 178 trips or triggers a detector 150, such as a mechanical switch or other sensor.

[0033] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly 116 can include, and can be configured to trigger or provide, an audible and / or visual indication or indicator 184 of whether the target 152 is properly detected and, therefore, whether the actuator 120 is properly or improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. For example, the detector wiring 164 can close or complete a circuit when the target 152 is properly detected and, therefore, whether the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the detector wiring 164 can open a circuit when the target 152 is properly detected and, therefore, whether the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the detector wiring 164 can open a circuit when the target 152 is not detected and, therefore, whether the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. In at least one embodiment, the detector wiring 164 can close or complete a circuit if the target 152 is not detected and, therefore, if the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. The circuit can provide an audible and / or visual display or indicator 184 so that an operator or inspector can verify that the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126.

[0034] 16 , for example, the monitoring assembly 116 can include one or more detectors 150, such as electrical contacts or flux washers 190, positioned within the actuator housing 122 and / or adjacent to the coil 124. In this example, the core tube 126 itself can be used to complete a circuit with the detector wiring 164 when the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. The detectors 150, such as the contacts or washers 190, can be positioned to hold the circuit open when the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126, thereby alerting an operator or inspector that the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126.

[0035] 17 , the monitoring assembly 116 can include one or more detectors 150, such as a contact sleeve 192, positioned within the actuator housing 122 and / or adjacent to the coil 124. In this example, the core tube 126 itself can be used to complete a circuit between the detector wiring 164 and / or the ground or other wiring 166 when the actuator 120 is properly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126. The detector 150, such as the contact sleeve 192, can be positioned to hold the circuit open when the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126, thereby alerting an operator or inspector that the actuator 120 is improperly attached to the valve body 104 and / or core tube 126.

[0036] In at least one embodiment, the valve's removable solenoid coil can incorporate a switch triggered by a target feature on the solenoid armature (core tube), which can be secured to the valve body. The switch, triggered by a target feature on the solenoid armature, can detect whether the removable solenoid coil is correctly installed in the correct position, incorrectly / incompletely installed in the incorrect position, or not installed at all. At least one embodiment of the present disclosure can achieve this without the need to align the target feature, regardless of the rotational position of the solenoid coil around the armature / valve body. Because the target can be integrated into the solenoid armature, the present invention does not require an additional element to function as the target feature (although it can optionally be included). The switch can be mechanical, optical, magnetic, or resistive. The target feature can be ferrous, magnetic, or reflective. The switch can be normally open, normally closed, normally closed, or progressively resistive. The switch can be mounted on an accessory structure on the solenoid coil or can be incorporated into the solenoid coil's enclosure. The switch can be coupled to the enclosure to provide an environmental seal, electrical terminations, and / or electrical leads. At least one embodiment can provide an alarm signal or other indicator if the solenoid coil is properly or improperly installed, whether or not after removal for field service or otherwise. A solenoid valve used in a fire suppression system is an example of a commercial implementation of the present disclosure. For example, at least one embodiment of the present disclosure can comply with NFPA-13. Other exemplary implementations of the present disclosure include solenoid valve applications where sensing and / or indication aspects of the present disclosure are needed or desired.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can include a valve body and an actuator. The valve body can include a selective flow inlet and outlet through the valve. The actuator can be coupled to the valve body and configured to control flow from the inlet to the outlet. In at least one embodiment, the actuator includes an actuator housing, a coil disposed within the actuator housing, and a core tube. In at least one embodiment, when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body, a portion of the core tube can extend through the coil and another portion can extend beyond the coil. In at least one embodiment, the core tube extends from the valve body through the actuator housing and the coil when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body.

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the solenoid valve can also include a monitoring assembly that monitors whether the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly includes a target on the core tube and a detector configured to detect whether the target is present. The detector and target can be positioned such that the detector can detect the target when the actuator is properly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector cannot detect the target when the actuator is improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube.

[0039] In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether a target is detected. In at least one embodiment, the monitoring assembly can be configured to trigger or provide an audible and / or visual indication of whether the actuator is properly or improperly attached to the valve body and / or core tube. In at least one embodiment, the detector can include a switch or other sensor, such as a mechanical microswitch or a magnetic proximity switch. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a cam or other target profile on the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can be integral with the core tube or affixed to the end of the core tube. In at least one embodiment, the target can include a ferromagnetic metal, and the remainder of the core tube can be non-ferromagnetic. In at least one embodiment, the detector and / or target can be contained within or external to the actuator housing. In at least one embodiment, the detector is located in the actuator housing and the target is located in the core tube.

[0040] Other and further embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be devised without departing from the spirit of Applicant's disclosure. For example, the devices, systems, and methods may be implemented for many different types and sizes of valves in many different industries. Furthermore, various methods and physical embodiments may be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Descriptions of elements in the singular may include elements in the plural, and vice versa. Unless otherwise limited, the order of steps may occur in various orders. Various steps described herein may be combined with other steps, interconnected with described steps, and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements may be functionally described, embodied as separate components, or combined into components having multiple functions. One or more aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and / or described in more detail in the accompanying drawings. The aspects and embodiments reflected in the drawings are for purposes of illustration and example and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0041] The present invention has been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not all embodiments of the present invention have been 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 the inventions conceived by the applicants; rather, in accordance with patent laws, the applicants intend to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that come within the scope or range of equivalents of the claims.

Claims

1. a valve body having an inlet and an outlet; an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to control flow from the inlet to the outlet, the actuator assembly including an actuator, the actuator including an actuator housing and a coil disposed within the actuator housing, and a core tube having a first portion disposed at least partially through the coil and a second portion extending beyond the coil when the actuator is operably attached to the valve body, the actuator configured to be removably and slidably disposed relative to the core tube, the core tube being at least partially cylindrical and configured to be coupled to the valve body; a monitoring assembly that monitors whether the actuator is operably attached to the valve body; A solenoid valve comprising: The monitoring assembly includes: A detector; a target fixedly disposed in the second portion of the core tube; The detector is configured to detect at least one of the presence of the target, the absence of the target, and combinations thereof.

2. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the detector includes at least one of a switch and a sensor.

3. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring assembly is configured to initiate at least one of an audible and a visual indication when the target is present or absent.

4. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring assembly includes at least one of an audible indicator and a visual indicator operably coupled to the detector.

5. The detector comprises: a stem having a first end and a second end longitudinally opposite the first end; a switch; the stem is biased away from the switch; The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the second end of the stem is configured to open or close the switch when the first end of the stem contacts the target.

6. The solenoid valve of claim 5 , wherein the target comprises at least one of a cam, a tang, a groove, a shoulder, and a target profile on an outer surface of the core tube second portion.

7. The detector comprises: a proximity switch mounted to sense communication with the second portion of the core tube when the actuator is operably attached to the valve body; The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the proximity switch is configured to open or close in response to the presence or absence of the target.

8. The solenoid valve of claim 7 , wherein the proximity switch is a magnetic proximity switch and the target includes at least one of a permanent magnet and a ferromagnetic metal.

9. The solenoid valve of claim 8 , wherein the second portion of the core tube includes an end coupled to a body of the core tube, the end including the target.

10. 10. The solenoid valve of claim 9, wherein the end pieces comprise a ferromagnetic metal and the body of the core tube is non-ferromagnetic.

11. An electromagnetic valve as described in claim 9, wherein the end portion is positioned through an opening in the actuator housing when the actuator is attached to the valve body in an operable state, and further includes a retainer coupled to the end portion and configured to hold the actuator in an operable position relative to the core tube.

12. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the target is at least partially disposed within the core tube.

13. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the detector and the target is contained within the actuator housing.

14. The solenoid valve of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring assembly includes a detector housing coupled to the actuator housing, the detector being contained within the detector housing.

15. The solenoid valve of claim 14 , wherein the second portion of the core tube extends into an opening in the detector housing.

16. 15. The solenoid valve of claim 14, wherein the detector housing is coupled to a top of the actuator housing, the detector including a stem having a longitudinal axis at least substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the core tube.

17. 1. A monitoring assembly for a solenoid valve having an actuator housing, a coil disposed in the actuator housing, and a core tube, the monitoring assembly comprising: Target and a detector configured to detect at least one of the presence of the target, the absence of the target, and combinations thereof; the detector is configured to be mounted to the actuator housing; a monitoring assembly, wherein the target is configured to be fixedly coupled to a portion of the core tube that extends beyond an end of the coil opposite the valve body when the actuator housing and the coil are operably coupled to the valve body, and the monitoring assembly is configured to monitor whether the actuator housing and the coil are operably disposed on the core tube.

18. The monitoring assembly of claim 17 , further comprising a detector housing configured to be coupled to the actuator housing, the detector housing configured to house the detector.

19. a valve body having an inlet and an outlet; an actuator assembly coupled to the valve body and configured to control flow from the inlet to the outlet, the actuator assembly including a core tube extending from the valve body and an actuator including an actuator housing containing a coil, the core tube extending at least partially through the coil and the actuator housing when the actuator is operably attached to the valve body, the actuator configured to be removably and slidably disposed in the core tube; a monitoring assembly that monitors whether the actuator is operably attached to the valve body; A solenoid valve comprising: The monitoring assembly includes: a target fixedly disposed in the core tube; a detector configured to detect the target when the actuator is operably attached to the valve body.

20. 2. The solenoid valve of claim 1, wherein the detector is contained within a detector housing external to the actuator housing, the actuator housing being positioned between the valve body and the detector housing.

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