Rotary valve

Abstract

A rotary valve includes a first valve component having a conical female surface. The rotary valve includes a second valve component having a conical male surface configured to be received in the conical female surface to define a contact area between the conical female surface and the conical male surface. A rotary valve includes at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface defining at least one recessed area. The at least one recessed area being disposed between an apex section and a base section of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface, wherein the contact area includes the apex section and the base section of the conical female surface and the conical male surface and excludes the at least one recessed area.

Description

ROTARY VALVECROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 651,021, filed on May 23, 2024 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present technology relates to a fluid handling device, and more specifically to a rotary valve for handling fluids.BACKGROUND

[0003] Rotary valves are commonly used in fluid handling systems to control the direction and flow of fluids between channels. However, conventional rotary valves suffer from various performance and durability limitations. Achieving a reliable fluid seal between the components can be challenging, especially in systems exposed to high pressures, temperature fluctuations, and / or aggressive fluids. Misalignment during assembly and / or operation may further compromise sealing performance, resulting in fluid leakage, increased wear, and overall reduced efficiency.

[0004] Compressive force is used to achieve an effective seal. This can increase mechanical stress on the components of the rotary valve and may increase material degradation, limiting the operational lifespan of the rotary valve. Additionally, misalignment can lead to increased wear, particularly in high-cycling environments.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a rotary valve which overcomes or at least reduces at least some of the above-described problems.SUMMARY

[0006] It is an object of the present technology to ameliorate at least some of the inconveniences present in the prior art.

[0007] Embodiments of the present technology provide a rotary valve that offers several advantages, including but not limited to one or more of improved sealing performance, enhanced alignment and fit, increased durability, and extended component lifespan. The mating conical surfaces of the valve components are configured to promote self-centering, which facilitates alignment during assembly and improves manufacturing tolerances. A recessed area defined in one or both of the conical surfaces may concentrate contact forces, for example at the apex and / or the base sections of the valve components, enhancing fit and alignment. This concentration of forces generates increased localized pressure at the apex and the base sections of the conical surfaces, thereby improving sealing performance and forming a tighter, more effective seal. By localizing contact forces in this manner, the rotary valve leverages mechanical advantage, enabling a vertically applied compressive force to produce an enhanced sealing pressure at the apex and / or the base sections. This reduces the input force required to achieve a high-performance seal, lowers mechanical stress during assembly, and minimizes component wear during operation. Additionally, the recessed areas reduce the contact area between valve components, minimizing wear over time and thereby extending the operational lifespan of the rotary valve. Overall, these features may result in a more robust, efficient, and durable rotary valve suitable for demanding fluidic and high-performance sealing applications.

[0008] In one broad aspect of the present technology, a rotary valve is provided. The rotary valve includes a first valve component having a conical female surface; a second valve component having a conical male surface, the conical male surface configured to be received in the conical female surface to define a contact area between the conical female surface and the conical male surface; and at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface defining at least one recessed area, the at least one recessed area being disposed between an apex section and a base section of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface; wherein the contact area includes the apex section and the base section of the conical female surface and the conical male surface and excludes the at least one recessed area.

[0009] In some embodiments, the at least one recessed area extends radially along the at least one conical female surface and the conical male surface.

[0010] In some embodiments, the at least one recessed area has a step-shaped profile when viewed in cross-section.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one recessed area is an annular recessed area.

[0012] In some embodiments, the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical male surface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the conical female surface is substantially planar.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical female surface.

[0015] In some embodiments, the conical male surface is substantially planar.

[0016] In some embodiments, the at least recessed area is a first recessed area defined in the conical male surface; and the rotary valve further comprises a second recessed area defined in the conical female surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, a projected surface area of the at least one recessed area is greater than a contact area of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface. In some embodiments, the surface area of the at least one recessed area is greater than a contact area of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rotary valve is a centering electronic rotary valve.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, the second material having a hardness that is substantially equivalent to the first material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first material and the second material are ceramic.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, a hardness of the second material being different from a hardness of the first material.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first material is a ceramic or a polymer; and the second material is an other of the ceramic or the polymer.

[0023] In some embodiments, the polymer is a carbon reinforced polymer.

[0024] In some embodiments, when pressure is applied to at least one of the first valve component and the second valve component, the first valve component and the second valve component form a fluid seal therebetween.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first valve component is an adapter; the second valve component is a stator; and the conical female surface is sealingly associated with the conical male surface.

[0026] In some embodiments, the conical female surface defines an adapter input channel opening and a plurality of adapter output channel openings; the conical male surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channel openings; the stator input channel opening is fluidly connected to the adapter input channel opening; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are fluidly connected to the plurality of adapter output channel openings.

[0027] In some embodiments, the adapter input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical female surface; the plurality of adapter output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the adapter input channel opening; the stator input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical male surface; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first valve component is a stator; the second valve component is a rotor; and the conical male surface is movably and sealingly associated with the conical female surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, the conical female surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channel openings; and the conical male surface defines: a rotor fluid channel input opening fluidly connected to the stator input channel opening; a rotor fluid channel output opening fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of stator output channel openings; and a rotor fluid directional channel defined on the conical male surface and extending radially between the rotor fluid channel input opening and the rotor fluid channel output opening.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

[0031] In the context of the present specification, unless expressly provided otherwise, the words “first”, “second”, “third”, etc. have been used as adjectives only for the purpose of allowing for distinction between the nouns that they modify from one another, and not for the purpose of describing any particular relationship between those nouns.

[0032] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0033] As used herein, the term “about” and / or “approximately” in the context of a given value or range refers to a value or range that is within 20%, preferably within 10%, and more preferably within 5% of the given value or range.

[0034] As used herein, the term “and / or” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of the two specified features or components with or without the other. For example “A and / or B” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[0035] As used herein, “at least one of A and B” is to be taken as specific disclosure of each of (i) A, (ii) B and (iii) A and B, just as if each is set out individually herein.

[0036] Embodiments of the present technology each have at least one of the above- mentioned aspects, but do not necessarily have all of them. It should be understood that some aspects of the present technology that have resulted from attempting to attain the above-mentioned object may not satisfy this object and / or may satisfy other objects not specifically recited herein.

[0037] Additional and / or alternative features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the present technology will become apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] For a better understanding ofthe present technology, as well as other aspects and further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which is to be used in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

[0039] Figure 1 depicts an elevation view of a rotary valve according to certain embodiments of the present technology;

[0040] Figure 2 depicts an elevation view of an adapter, a stator, and a rotor of the rotary valve of Figure 1;

[0041] Figure 3 depicts a cross-sectional view of the adapter, the stator, and the rotor of Figure 2 taken along line 3-3.

[0042] Figure 4 depicts a close-up of the cross-sectional view of Figure 3; and

[0043] Figure 5 depicts a close-up cross-sectional view of an adapter, a stator, and a rotor of an alternative embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] The present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of beingpracticed or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including", "comprising", or "having", "containing", "involving" and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter as well as, optionally, additional items. In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements.

[0045] With reference to Figure 1, a rotary valve 100 is depicted. In the present embodiment, the rotary valve 100 is a centering electronic rotary valve (CERV) 100. It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the present technology may be implemented in other types of rotary valves. In some embodiments, the CERV 100 is configured for use in diagnostic instruments configured to analyze genetic material associated with infectious agents and / or may be used to deliver reagents or fluids to an analytical module for disease detection. Such diagnostic instruments may be used for the testing of diseases and infections, such as respiratory illnesses, blood-borne pathogens, and / or viral infections including but not limited to COVID-19, influenza, and hepatitis.

[0046] As depicted in Figures 1 to 5, the CERV 100 includes an adapter 102, a stator 104, and a rotor 106. The stator 104 and the rotor 106 are housed within a housing 108. The CERV 100 further includes a motor (not depicted) and a drive system (not depicted) for operating the CERV 100. In the present embodiment, the CERV 100 is configured for use in low-pressure applications. Specifically, the CERV 100 is confiured to operate at a pressure between 1 and 200 psi; however, this may vary in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the CERV 100 has one or more structures and functions as described in U.S. Patent No. 12,297,931 entitled “Centering Electronic Rotary Valve” and / or U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 391,784 entitled “Centering Electronic Rotary Valve”, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0047] With reference to Figures 2 to 5, the adapter 102 will now be described in detail. In the present embodiment, the adapter 102 is configured to interface with a manifold (not depicted) to receive fluid from the manifold for delivery to the CERV 100.It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the adapter 102 may itself be configured as a manifold for introducing fluid directly to the CERV 100.

[0048] The adapter 102 includes an adapter top surface 110 that is substantially dome-shaped. However, in other embodiments, the adapter top surface 110 may have any suitable shape, such as arcuate or conical. The adapter 102 further includes a bottom surface 111. A portion 112 of the bottom surface 111 defines a conical-shaped cavity (not separately numbered) configured to receive a corresponding portion of the stator 104, described in detail below. In the present embodiment, the portion 112 of the bottom surface 111 defining the cavity is substantially planar. Accordingly, for the purposes of explanation, the portion 112 of the bottom surface 111 defining the conical-shaped cavity is hereinafter referred to as the adapter conical female surface 112. It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, an entirety of the bottom surface 111 may define the adapter conical female surface 112. As used hereinafter, the term “conical” is intended to mean a form that resembles or is derived from a cone, typically having a taper from an apex end 109 to a base end 113, the base end 113 being wider than the apex end 109. The term “conical” includes full cones as well as truncated cones such as frustoconical cones.

[0049] As depicted in Figure 3, the adapter 102 defines an adapter input channel 122, which extends between a corresponding adapter input opening 124 defined in the adapter top surface 110 and a corresponding adapter input opening 126 defined in the adapter conical female surface 112. In the present embodiment, the adapter 102 includes a single adapter input channel 122. The adapter input opening 124 is defined in a center of the adapter top surface 110 and the adapter input opening 126 is defined in an apex 128 of the adapter conical female surface 112, such that the adapter input channel 122 extends along and is coaxial with a central axis 123 of the adapter 102. It is contemplated that the adapter 102 may define any suitable number of adapter input channels 122 and corresponding adapter input openings 124, 126 in other embodiments.

[0050] The adapter 102 further defines a plurality of adapter output channels 116. Each adapter output channel 116 extends between a corresponding adapter output opening 118 defined in the adapter top surface 110 and a corresponding adapter output opening 120defined in the adapter conical female surface 112. The adapter output openings 118 are defined circumferentially about the adapter input opening 124 in the adapter top surface 110. Similarly, the adapter output openings 120 are defined circumferentially about the adapter input opening 124 in the adapter conical female surface 112. In the present embodiment, the adapter 102 includes twenty -four (24) adapter output channels 116, and thus twenty-four (24) corresponding adapter output openings 118, 120. It is contemplated that the adapter 102 may define any suitable number of adapter output channels 116 and corresponding adapter output openings 118, 120 in other embodiments.

[0051] During operation, fluid introduced into the adapter input opening 124 on the adapter top surface 110 flows into and through the adapter input channel 122, exiting at the adapter input opening 126 on the adapter conical female surface 112. Similarly, fluid introduced into a respective adapter output opening 120 on the adapter conical female surface 112 flows through the corresponding adapter output channel 116 and exits through the corresponding adapter output opening 118 on the adapter top surface 110.

[0052] With reference to Figures 3 to 5, the stator 104 will now be described in detail. As mentioned above, the stator 104 is housed within the housing 108. The stator 104 includes a stator top surface 132 which is conical in shape such that the stator top surface 132 is received in the cavity defined by the adapter conical female surface 112. Accordingly, for the purposes of explanation, the stator top surface 132 is hereinafter referred to as the stator conical male surface 132. In the present embodiment, a bottom surface 134 of the stator 104 defines a conical-shaped cavity (not separately numbered) configured to receive a corresponding portion of the rotor 106, described in detail below. In the present embodiment, the bottom surface 134 defining the cavity is substantially planar. Accordingly, for the purposes of explanation, the bottom surface 134 of the stator 104 is hereinafter referred to as the stator conical female surface 134. It is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the top surface may define the stator conical male surface 132 and / or only a portion of the bottom surface may define the stator conical female surface 134.

[0053] As depicted in Figure 3, the stator 104 defines a stator input channel 138, which extends between a stator input opening 140 defined in the stator conical male surface 132 and a stator input opening 142 defined in the stator conical female surface 134. In the present embodiment, the stator 104 includes a single stator input channel 138. The stator input opening 142 is defined at an apex 144 of the stator conical male surface 132 and the stator input opening 142 is defined at an apex 146 of the stator conical female surface 134, such that the stator input channel 138 extends along and is coaxial with a central axis 147 of the stator 104. The central axis 147 of the stator 104 is coaxial with the central axis 123 of the adapter 102. It is contemplated that the stator 104 may define any suitable number of stator input channels 138 and corresponding stator input openings 140, 142 in other embodiments.

[0054] The stator 104 further defines a plurality of stator output channels 148. Each stator output channel 148 extends between a corresponding stator output opening 150 defined in the stator conical male surface 132 and a corresponding stator output opening 152 defined in the stator conical female surface 134. The stator output openings 150 are defined circumferentially about the stator input opening 140 in the stator conical male surface 132. Similarly, the stator output openings 152 are defined circumferentially about the stator input opening 142 in the stator conical female surface 134. In this embodiment, the stator output channels 148 extend parallel to the stator input channel 138. In the present embodiment, the stator 104 includes twenty-four (24) stator output channels 148, and thus twenty -four (24) corresponding output openings 150, 152. It is contemplated that the stator 104 may define any suitable number of stator output channels 148 and corresponding stator output openings 150, 152 in other embodiments.

[0055] During operation, fluid introduced into the stator input opening 140 on the stator conical male surface 132 flows into and through the stator input channel 138, exiting at the stator input opening 142 on the stator conical female surface 134. Similarly, fluid introduced into one of the stator output openings 152 on the stator conical female surface 134 flows through the corresponding stator output channel 148 and exits through the respective stator output opening 150 on the stator conical male surface 132.

[0056] When the stator 104 is received within the adapter 102 — that is, when the stator conical male surface 132 is received in the cavity defined by the adapter conical female surface 112 — the adapter 102 and the stator 104 become sealingly engaged. Specifically, when pressure is applied to the adapter 102 and / or the stator 104, the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 are compressed together to form a fluid seal therebetween. In the present embodiment, the adapter 102 and the stator 104 are securely engaged with one another, such that relative movement between the adapter 102 and the stator 104 is limited. The stator input channel 138 is aligned with and in fluid communication with the adapter input channel 122, such that the stator input opening 140, defined in the stator conical male surface 132, is aligned with and in fluid communication with the adapter input opening 126, defined in the adapter conical female surface 112. Similarly, each stator output channel 148 is in fluid communication with a corresponding adapter output channel 116, such that each stator output opening 150, defined in the stator conical male surface 132, is aligned with a respective adapter output opening 120, defined in the adapter conical female surface 112.

[0057] The stator conical male surface 132 defines at least one recessed area 130, which reduces the overall contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112. In the present embodiment, the recessed area 130 is disposed between an apex section 154 and a base section 157 of the stator conical male surface 132. In other words, the recessed area 130 is confined to the region between the apex section 154 and the base section 157. As a result, the contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 only includes the apex and base sections, excluding the recessed area 130. Specifically, the apex section 154 of the stator conical male surface 132 contacts and engages an apex section 156 of the adapter conical female surface 112, while the base section 157 of the stator conical male surface 132 contacts and engages a base section 158 of the adapter conical female surface 112, collectively defining the contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112. As used herein, the apex section 154, 156 and the base section 157, 158 refers to the bounds of the contact area (and thus, the bounds of the sealing area) of the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 respectively. In some embodiments, any one or more of the apex section 154, 156 and thebase section 157, 158 may be disposed at the ends of the adapter 102 and the stator 104 respectively. For example, the apex section 154 may be at the apex end 109, and the base section 157 may be at the base end 113. In other embodiments, any one or more of the apex section 154, 156 and the base section 157, 158 may be spaced from the ends 109, 113 of the stator 104 and the adapter 102 respectively.

[0058] The recessed area 130 is sized and shaped so as to substantially minimize the contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 while maintaining sealing integrity as well as structural integrity. In the present embodiment, a projected surface area of the recessed region 130 is greater than the contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112. In other words, the combined surface area of the apex section 154 and the base section 157 of the stator conical male surface 132 is less than the projected surface area of the recessed region 130. By projected surface area of the recessed region 130 is meant the surface area of the recessed region 130 when it is projected onto a non-recessed surface plane of the stator conical male surface 132.

[0059] Overall, in this embodiment, the recessed area 130 reduces the contact area between the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 by at least 60% and in some instances, between approximately 60% to 70%. However, this may vary in various embodiments. As used herein, reduction of the contact area refers to the actual contact area - including the recessed area 130 - compared to the contact area that would exist between the adapter conical female surface 112 and the stator conical male surface 132 if the recessed area 130 were not present.

[0060] The recessed area 130 is formed as a surface depression extending into - but not passing through - the stator conical male surface 132. In other words, the recessed area 130 is not a through hole. The recessed area 130 extends radially along the stator conical male surface 132. In the present embodiment, the recessed area 130 is an annular recess 130, extending continuously circumferentially around the stator conical male surface 132. However, in some embodiments, the annular recess 130 may extend onlypartially circumferentially around the stator conical male surface 132 (for example, as will be described below with respect to the rotor 106).

[0061] It is contemplated that the stator conical male surface 132 may include any number of recessed areas 130. In some instances, the stator conical male surface 132 may include a plurality of recessed areas 130 distributed around the stator conical male surface 132. For example, the recessed areas 130 may be formed as localized surface depressions distributed around the stator conical male surface 132. In some embodiments, the recessed areas 130 may be uniform in shape, while in other embodiments, they may vary in shape. The recessed areas 130 may, for instance, be generally circular, square, rectangular, or of other suitable geometries.

[0062] As depicted in Figures 3 and 4, the recessed area 130 has a step-shaped profile when viewed in cross-section. In this embodiment, the steps are unevenly spaced and vary in depth, such that the step-shaped profile is asymmetrical along the radial direction of the stator conical male surface 132. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the steps may be evenly spaced with generally similar depths, forming a symmetrical step-shaped profile along the radial direction of the stator conical male surface 132. With reference to Figure 5, an alternative recessed area 130 is depicted. In this embodiment, the recessed area 130 has a substantially trapezoidal profile when viewed in the cross-section. In this embodiment, the recessed area 130 extends radially and maintains a consistent depth along the radial direction of the stator conical male surface 132. It is contemplated that the shape of the profile of the recessed area 130 when viewed in crosssection may vary in other embodiments. For example, in some cases, the profile of the recessed area may be semi-elliptical, rectangular, sloped, or any other suitable geometric shape, or a combination thereof.

[0063] It is noted that providing the recessed area 130 defined in the stator conical male surface 132 may provide improvements related to sealing performance, mechanical interaction between the adapter 102 and the stator 104, and overall longevity of the adapter 102 and the stator 104. By providing the recessed area 130, the overall contact areabetween the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112 is reduced,such that contact is limited to portions that are not recessed, specifically the apex sections 154, 156 and the base sections 157, 158. This limited contact concentrates the contact forces at the apex sections 154, 156 and the base sections 157, 158 of the stator conical male surface 132 and the adapter conical female surface 112. This causes higher localized pressures within these sections, thereby enhancing the sealing performance and reducing risk of fluid leakage. The recessed area 130 further promotes improved self-alignment of the adapter 102 and the stator 104 during assembly, allowing for easier positioning and more consistent engagement. Additionally, by reducing the amount of surface in contact during initial assembly, lower insertion forces may be required to achieve sealing compression, simplifying installation and reducing mechanical stress. Furthermore, by limiting the contact area to be between the apex sections 154, 156 and the base sections 157, 158, friction and wear is also limited, contributing to improved durability and extended component lifespan. This further prevents uneven loading and misalignments, maintaining seal integrity and reducing the risk of fluid leakage during operation of the CERV 100.

[0064] In addition to the recessed area 130, the selection of materials for the adapter102 and the stator 104 may further contribute to the performance and longevity of the CERV 100. In some embodiments, the adapter 102 and the stator 104 may be formed from materials having different hardnesses and / or wear resistance. For example, the stator 104 may be formed of a relatively softer, elastically deformable material, such as a polymer, while the adapter 102 may be formed from a harder material, such as ceramic, metal, or any other suitable material. In some instances, the softer material may be reinforced - such as a carbon reinforced polymer. Due to the difference in hardness and / or wear resistance, the softer stator 104 conforms under pressure to the harder adapter 102, further improving sealing performance through this localized deformation, and ultimately reduces risk of leakage. The elasticity of the softer material facilitates improved assembly, allowing for minor surface irregularities without compromising sealing performance. Furthermore, the use of the harder material enhances resistance to abrasion and mechanical wear, thereby increasing the operational lifespan. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, the adapter 102 may be composed of the relatively softer, elastically deformable material, while the stator 104 may be composed of the relatively harder material.

[0065] Alternatively, the adapter 102 and the stator 104 may be composed of materials having substantially equivalent hardnesses and / or wear resistance. In some embodiments, both components are formed from materials, such as ceramics, metals, or minerals (e.g., ruby). This configuration offers several advantages, including mechanical stability, improved wear resistance, and improved sealing performance. Specifically, the incorporation of the recessed area 130 — designed to concentrate contact forces at the apex sections 154, 156 and the base sections 157, 158 — generates increased localized pressure which can enhance seal effectiveness. Furthermore, hard materials exhibit superior resistance to surface degradation and deformation over time, contributing to extended component lifespan and consistent performance. These benefits may be particularly advantageous in demanding operating conditions, such as those involving aggressive fluids, elevated temperatures, high cycling, or high-pressure sealing requirements. It is contemplated that, in some embodiments, a low friction coating may be applied to the adapter 102 and / or the stator 104 - more specifically, the coating may be applied to the respective conical surfaces 112, 132 which are interfacing with one another. That is, the coating may be applied, at least partially, to the adapter conical female surface 112 and / or the stator conical male surface 132, such as their associated apex and / or base sections. In some instances, the coating may comprise diamond-like carbon (DLC); however, it is contemplated that any other suitable coating may be used.

[0066] With reference to Figure 3, the rotor 106 will now be described in detail. As mentioned above, the rotor 106 is housed within the housing 108. The rotor 106 includes a rotor top surface 160 which is conical in shape such that the rotor top surface 160 is received in the cavity defined by the stator conical female surface 134. Accordingly, for the purpose of explanation, the rotor top surface 160 is hereinafter referred to as the rotor conical male surface 160. In the present embodiment, an entirety of the rotor top surface defines the rotor conical male surface 160. However, it is contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, only a portion of the top surface may define the rotor conical male surface 160.

[0067] The rotor 106 defines a rotor fluid channel input opening 162 and a rotor fluid channel output opening 164, which are radially spaced apart and fluidly connected bya rotor fluid directional channel 166 extending therebetween. Tn this embodiment, the rotor fluid channel input opening 162, the rotor fluid channel output opening 164, and the rotor fluid directional channel 166 are defined in the rotor conical male surface 160. The rotor fluid channel input opening 162 is defined at an apex 170 of the rotor conical male surface 160 and the rotor fluid directional channel 166 extends radially along the rotor conical male surface 160, fluidly connecting the rotor fluid channel input opening 162 and the rotor fluid channel output opening 164.

[0068] When the rotor 106 is received within the stator 104 - that is, when the rotor conical male surface 160 is received in the cavity defined by the stator conical female surface 134 - the stator 104 and the rotor 106 become sealingly engaged. Specifically, when pressure is applied to the stator 104 and / or the rotor 106, the rotor conical male surface 160 and the stator conical female surface 134 are compressed together for a fluid seal therebetween. The rotor fluid channel input opening 162 is aligned with and in fluid communication with the stator input channel 138 via the stator input opening 142 defined in stator conical female surface 134. The rotor fluid channel output opening 164 is aligned and in fluid communication with one of the stator output opening 152, thereby establishing fluid communication between the rotor fluid channel output opening 164 and the corresponding stator output channel 148.

[0069] The rotor 106 is movably associated with the stator 104. In other words, the rotor 106 is moveable relative to the stator 104. In the present embodiment, the rotor 106 is rotatable relative to the stator 104. The rotor 106 is operatively connected to the drive system (not depicted) and associated motor (not depicted) of the CERV 100. The motor drives rotation of the rotor 106. The rotor 106 rotates about a central axis 167 of the rotor 106, to align the rotor fluid channel output opening 164 with a respective stator output opening 152. In the present embodiment, the central axis 167 is coaxial with the central axis 123 of the adapter 102, as well as the central axis 147 of the stator 104.

[0070] During operation of the CERV 100, fluid is introduced through the adapter input opening 124 located on the adapter top surface 110. The fluid flows through the adapter input channel 122 and exits via the adapter input opening 126 defined in the adapterconical female surface 112. The fluid then enters the stator input opening 140 defined in the stator conical male surface 132 and flows through the stator input channel 138, exiting through the stator output opening 142 defined in the stator conical female surface 134. From there, the fluid flows into the rotor fluid channel input opening 162 and flows along the rotor fluid directional channel 166, and egresses via the rotor fluid channel output opening 164. The fluid enters a respective stator output opening 152 (which is aligned with the rotor fluid channel output opening 164) defined in the stator conical female surface 134, through the corresponding stator output channel 148, and exiting via the corresponding stator output opening 150 defined in the stator conical male surface 132. The fluid then enters a respective adapter output opening 120 (which is aligned with the respective stator output opening 150) defined in the adapter conical female surface 112, through the corresponding adapter output channel 116, and exiting from the adapter output opening 118 defined in the adapter top surface 110.

[0071] As depicted in Figure 3, the rotor conical male surface 160 defines at least one recessed area 168 which reduces the overall contact area between the rotor conical male surface 160 and the stator conical female surface 134. It is noted that, in the present embodiment, the recessed area 168 defined in the rotor conical male surface 160 is similar in structure and function to the recessed area 130 defined in the stator conical male surface 132. Accordingly, the features and benefits of recessed area 168 will not be described in detail, except as to the differences set forth below. Specifically, the recessed area 168 extends only partially circumferentially around the rotor conical male surface 160 such that the recessed area 168 does not interfere with the rotor fluid directional channel 166 that is also defined in the rotor conical male surface 160. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the recessed area 168 may include multiple recessed areas 168 as described above.

[0072] The selection of materials for the stator 104 and the rotor 106 are similar to the material selection with regards to the adapter 102 and the stator 104 as described above. Accordingly, the selection of materials for the stator 104 and the rotor 106, as well as the corresponding benefits of said material selection, will not be described in further detail.

[0073] Although only the stator conical male surface 132 and the rotor conical male surface 160 have been described as defining the recessed areas 130, 168 respectively, in alternative embodiments, the adapter conical female surface 112 and the stator conical female surface 134 may also define recessed areas which, in combination with the recessed areas 130, 168, reduce the contact areabetween the respective valve components. In further embodiments, the recessed areas 130, 168 may instead be defined in the adapter conical female surface 112 and the stator conical female surface 134, respectively. Meanwhile, the stator conical male surface 132 and the rotor conical male surface 160 may be planar.

[0074] It is noted that, in other embodiments, the male and female surfaces may be reversed. For instance, the bottom surface 112 of the adapter 102 may define the male conical surface while the top surface 132 of the stator 104 may define the female conical surface that defines a cavity configured to receive the male conical surface of the adapter 102. Similarly, the bottom surface 134 of the stator 104 may define the male conical surface while the top surface 160 of the rotor 106 may define the female conical surface that defines a cavity configured to receive the male conical surface of the stator 104.

[0075] Although the CERV 100 has been described as having conical interfaces with the respective recessed areas 130, 168 between the adapter 102 and the stator 104, as well as between the stator 104 and the rotor 106, it is contemplated that alternative embodiments of the CERV 100 may include only a conical interface with the recessed area 130 between the adapter 102 and the stator 104, while the conical interface between the stator 104 and rotor 106 does not include the recessed area 168. In other words, the recessed area 168 may be omitted. Similarly, in other embodiments, the CERV 100 may only include a conical interface with the recessed area 168 between the stator 104 and the rotor 106, while the conical interface between the adapter 102 and the stator 104 does not include the recessed area 130. In other words, the recessed area 130 may be omitted.

[0076] It is noted that, although the CERV 100 has been described for use in low pressure applications, the present technology may be adapted for a rotary valve in a high pressure application. Specifically, the CERV 100 is configured to operate under a pressure of at least 500 psi, and in some instances between 500 psi to 25000 psi. That is, in certainembodiments, the stator 104 of the CERV 100 may be omitted. As a result, the adapter 102 and the rotor 106 may interface with one another. Specifically, the adapter conical female surface 112 receives the rotor conical male surface 160. Similar to as described above, the rotor conical male surface 160 defines a recessed area 168 to reduce the overall contact area between the rotor conical male surface 160 and the adapter conical female surface 112. It is contemplated that, in other embodiments, the recessed area 168 may be defined by the adapter conical female surface 112. In further embodiments, each of the adapter conical female surface 112 and the rotor conical male surface 160 may define respective recessed areas. In high pressure applications, the CERV 100 further differs in that the contact area between the adapter 102 and the rotor 106 is smaller relative to the contact area between the adapter 102 and the stator 104, and between the stator 104 and the rotor 106 in low pressure applications. A further distinction of the CERV 100 adapted for high- pressure applications is that the total number of channels (i.e., input and output channels) is less than that in low-pressure applications.

[0077] The CERV 100 and associated components described above and implemented in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments of the present technology can be represented as presented in the following numbered clauses.

[0078] CLAUSE 1. A rotary valve comprising: a first valve component having a conical female surface; a second valve component having a conical male surface, the conical male surface configured to be received in the conical female surface to define a contact area between the conical female surface and the conical male surface; and at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface defining at least one recessed area, the at least one recessed area being disposed between an apex section and a base section of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface; wherein the contact area includes the apex section and the base section of the conical female surface and the conical male surface and excludes the at least one recessed area.

[0079] CLAUSE 2. The rotary valve of clause 1, wherein the at least one recessed area extends radially along the at least one conical female surface and the conical male surface.

[0080] CLAUSE S. The rotary valve of clause 1 or 2, wherein the at least one recessed area has a step-shaped profde when viewed in cross-section.

[0081] CLAUSE 4. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the at least one recessed area is an annular recessed area.

[0082] CLAUSE 5. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical male surface.

[0083] CLAUSE 6. The rotary valve of clause 5, wherein the conical female surface is substantially planar.

[0084] CLAUSE 7. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical female surface.

[0085] CLAUSE 8. The rotary valve of clause 7, wherein the conical male surface is substantially planar.

[0086] CLAUSE 9. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein: the at least recessed area is a first recessed area defined in the conical male surface; and the rotary valve further comprises a second recessed area defined in the conical female surface.

[0087] CLAUSE 10. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein a projected surface area of the at least one recessed area is greater than a contact area of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface.

[0088] CLAUSE 11. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the rotary valve is a centering electronic rotary valve.

[0089] CLAUSE 12. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 11, wherein: the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, the second material having a hardness that is substantially equivalent to the first material.

[0090] CLAUSE 13. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 11 , wherein: the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, a hardness of the second material being different from a hardness of the first material.

[0091] CLAUSE 14. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein, when pressure is applied to at least one of the first valve component and the second valve component, the first valve component and the second valve component form a fluid seal therebetween.

[0092] CLAUSE 15. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein: the first valve component is an adapter; the second valve component is a stator; and the conical female surface is sealingly associated with the conical male surface.

[0093] CLAUSE 16. The rotary valve of clause 15, wherein: the conical female surface defines an adapter input channel opening and a plurality of adapter output channel openings; the conical male surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channel openings; the stator input channel opening is fluidly connected to the adapter input channel opening; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are fluidly connected to the plurality of adapter output channel openings.

[0094] CLAUSE 17. The rotary valve of clause 16, wherein: the adapter input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical female surface; the plurality of adapter output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the adapter input channel opening; the stator input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical male surface; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

[0095] CLAUSE 18. The rotary valve of any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein: the first valve component is a stator; the second valve component is a rotor; and the conical male surface is movably and sealingly associated with the conical female surface.

[0096] CLAUSE 19. The rotary valve of clause 18, wherein: the conical female surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channelopenings; and the conical male surface defines: a rotor fluid channel input opening fluidly connected to the stator input channel opening; a rotor fluid channel output opening fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of stator output channel openings; and a rotor fluid directional channel defined on the conical male surface and extending radially between the rotor fluid channel input opening and the rotor fluid channel output opening.

[0097] CLAUSE 20. The rotary valve of clause 19, wherein the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

[0098] Modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments of the present technology may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The foregoing description is intended to be exemplary rather than limiting. The scope of the present technology is therefore intended to be limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A rotary valve comprising: a first valve component having a conical female surface; a second valve component having a conical male surface, the conical male surface configured to be received in the conical female surface to define a contact area between the conical female surface and the conical male surface; and at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface defining at least one recessed area, the at least one recessed area being disposed between an apex section and a base section of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface; wherein the contact area includes the apex section and the base section of the conical female surface and the conical male surface and excludes the at least one recessed area.

2. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein the at least one recessed area extends radially along the at least one conical female surface and the conical male surface.

3. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein the at least one recessed area has a step-shaped profile when viewed in cross-section.

4. The rotary valve of claim 1 , wherein the at least one recessed area is an annular recessed area.

5. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical male surface.

6. The rotary valve of claim 5, wherein the conical female surface is substantially planar.

7. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein the at least one recessed area is defined in the conical female surface.

8. The rotary valve of claim 7, wherein the conical male surface is substantially planar.

9. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein: the at least recessed area is a first recessed area defined in the conical male surface; and the rotary valve further comprises a second recessed area defined in the conical female surface.

10. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein a projected surface area of the at least one recessed area is greater than a contact area of the at least one of the conical female surface and the conical male surface.

11. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein the rotary valve is a centering electronic rotary valve.

12. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein: the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, the second material having a hardness that is substantially equivalent to the first material.

13. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein: the first valve component is composed of a first material; and the second valve component is composed of a second material, a hardness of the second material being different from a hardness of the first material.

14. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein, when pressure is applied to at least one of the first valve component and the second valve component, the first valve component and the second valve component form a fluid seal therebetween.

15. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein: the first valve component is an adapter; the second valve component is a stator; and the conical female surface is sealingly associated with the conical male surface.

16. The rotary valve of claim 15, wherein: the conical female surface defines an adapter input channel opening and a plurality of adapter output channel openings; the conical male surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channel openings; the stator input channel opening is fluidly connected to the adapter input channel opening; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are fluidly connected to the plurality of adapter output channel openings.

17. The rotary valve of claim 16, wherein: the adapter input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical female surface; the plurality of adapter output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the adapter input channel opening; the stator input channel opening is defined at an apex of the conical male surface; and the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

18. The rotary valve of claim 1, wherein: the first valve component is a stator; the second valve component is a rotor; and the conical male surface is movably and sealingly associated with the conical female surface.

19. The rotary valve of claim 18, wherein: the conical female surface defines a stator input channel opening and a plurality of stator output channel openings; and the conical male surface defines: a rotor fluid channel input opening fluidly connected to the stator input channel opening;a rotor fluid channel output opening fluidly connected to at least one of the plurality of stator output channel openings; and a rotor fluid directional channel defined on the conical male surface and extending radially between the rotor fluid channel input opening and the rotor fluid channel output opening.

20. The rotary valve of claim 19, wherein the plurality of stator output channel openings are defined circumferentially about the stator input channel opening.

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