Two-position three-way distributor

Abstract

The invention relates to a two-position three-way distributor comprising: - first and second supports, in each of which fluid passage ports are arranged in fluid communication with a first channel; - first and second valve elements, each comprising fluid passage ports in fluid communication with a second channel and a third channel, respectively, each valve element cooperating with one of the supports, the valve elements and the supports being arranged along a longitudinal axis; - an electromechanically active actuator configured to simultaneously move the first and second valve elements along the longitudinal axis, between: -- a first position in which: - the first valve element is spaced from the first support so as to allow the fluid to flow between the respective ports thereof, and to establish fluid communication between the first channel and the second channel; - and, simultaneously, the second valve element is pressed against the second support so as to close the respective ports thereof, and to prevent fluid communication between the first channel and the third channel; -- a second position in which: - the second valve element is spaced from the second support so as to allow the fluid to flow between the respective ports thereof, and to establish fluid communication between the first channel and the third channel; - and, simultaneously, the first valve element is pressed against the first support so as to close the respective ports thereof, and to prevent fluid communication between the first channel and the second channel.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: Three-way, two-position distributor.

[0003] [Technical field.

[0004] [1] The present invention relates to a three-way, two-position distributor.

[0005] [2] The invention relates to the technical field of distributors used for the distribution of fluids in pneumatic or hydraulic circuits integrated into devices such as lifting equipment, wind turbines, or in precision fields such as aeronautics, drones, or spacecraft. It relates more particularly to an ultra-fast distributor, notably with a switching time between positions equal to or less than 1.5 ms.

[0006] State of the art.

[0007] [3] Distributors are known from patent documents DE102009017864, US2018 / 08754, US6202670, US2019 / 154164, JP3305515 or US2022 / 228665.

[0008] [4] We also know from patent document WO2023 / 131660 a two-way (inlet / outlet) and two-position (open / close) distributor, or 2 / 2 distributor comprising a pre-stressed piezoelectric actuator.

[0009] [5] More specifically, this distributor comprises a support in which first fluid passage orifices are provided and a valve (or flapper) in which second fluid passage orifices are provided. The piezoelectric actuator acts on the valve to move it between: - an open position in which the first and second orifices are in a configuration allowing the passage of fluid between the inlet and the outlet; - and a closed position in which the first and second orifices are in a configuration blocking the passage of fluid between the inlet and the outlet.

[0010] [6] This piezoelectrically actuated valve uses a valve and support in the form of "Hörbiger plates," described in particular in the following publications: David T. Branson et al. “Dynamic simulation model of hydraulic valve utilizing the Hörbiger plate principal and piezoactuation to achieve high bandwidth and flow performance.” Proceedings of the IMECE2008-67401, 2008 AMCE; David T. Branson et al. “Piezoelectrically actuated hydraulic valve design for high bandwidth and flow performance.” Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part I: Journal of Systems and Control Engineering, 2011, pp. 225–345.

[0011] [7] Although efficient with remarkably fast switching times of around 0.5 ms thanks to the use of the piezoelectric actuator and the design based on the principle of Hörbiger plates, this distributor remains limited in terms of applications by offering only two passage paths.

[0012] [8] The invention aims to remedy this situation. In particular, the present invention intends to provide a three-way, two-position valve (or 3 / 2 valve) whose design is based on the principle of a piezoelectric actuator valve of the Hörbiger plate type. More specifically, an objective of the invention is to modify the 2 / 2 valve of WO2023 / 131660 to make it a 3 / 2 valve.

[0013] Presentation of the invention.

[0014] [9] The solution proposed by the invention is a three-way, two-position distributor comprising:

[0015] - a first and a second support, in each of which are provided fluid passage openings in fluidic communication with a first channel,

[0016] - a first and a second valve, each comprising fluid passage orifices in fluidic communication with respectively a second and a third channel, each valve cooperating with one of the supports, said valves and said supports being arranged along a longitudinal axis,

[0017] - an electromechanically active actuator configured to simultaneously move the first and second valves along the longitudinal axis, between:

[0018] -- a first position in which: - the first valve is spaced from the first support to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication from the first channel to the second channel; - and simultaneously the second valve is pressed against the second support to close their respective orifices and block fluid communication between the first and third channels, -- a second position in which: - the second valve is spaced from the second support to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication from the first and third channels; - and simultaneously the first valve is pressed against the first support to close their respective orifices and block fluid communication between the first and second channels.

[0019]

[0010] According to the same general inventive concept, the fluid passage orifices of the valves can be in fluidic communication with the first channel, while the fluid passage orifices of the first support and the second support are in fluidic communication with the second and third channels respectively.

[0020]

[0011] The integration of a second valve / support pair and the specific arrangement of the valves and supports along the longitudinal axis along which the electromechanical actuator acts, makes it possible to introduce a third way while retaining the ultra-fast aspect of the distributor, and guaranteeing an almost instantaneous switching between the different positions.

[0021]

[0012] Furthermore, by introducing a third way, the possible applications of the distributor are multiplied compared to the aforementioned distributor of the prior art and allow for more complex fluid management.

[0022]

[0013] Other advantageous features of the valve that is the subject of the invention are listed below. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the features defined above. Each of these features contributes, where appropriate, to solving specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the notable features defined above do not necessarily participate. Thus, the following features may, where appropriate, be the subject of one or more divisional patent applications:

[0023]

[0014] According to one embodiment, the distributor has, along the longitudinal axis and in the following order: the actuator, a first chamber incorporating the second channel, the first valve, the first support, a third chamber incorporating the first channel, the second support, the second valve, and a second chamber incorporating the third channel. The fluid passage ports of the first valve open into the first chamber, the fluid passage ports of the second valve open into the second chamber, and the fluid passage ports of the supports open into the third chamber.

[0024]

[0015] According to another embodiment, the distributor has, along the longitudinal axis and in the following order: the actuator, a first chamber incorporating the second channel, the first support, the first valve, a third chamber incorporating the first channel, the second valve, the second support, and a second chamber incorporating the third channel. The fluid passage ports of the first support open into the first chamber, the fluid passage ports of the valves open into the third chamber, and the fluid passage ports of the second support open into the second chamber.

[0025]

[0016] According to one embodiment, the first channel is a fluid outlet and the second and third channels are pressurized fluid inlets, so that in use, the fluid circulation takes place: - in the first position of the distributor: from the second channel to the first channel; - and in the second position of the distributor: from the third channel to the first channel.

[0026]

[0017] According to another embodiment, the first channel is a pressurized fluid inlet and the second and third channels are fluid outlets, so that in use, the fluid circulation takes place: - in the first position of the distributor: from the first channel to the second channel; - and in the second position of the distributor: from the first channel to the third channel.

[0027]

[0018] According to one embodiment, when the first valve, or the second valve respectively, is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the first chamber, or the second chamber respectively, exerts a pressure force on said first valve, or the second valve respectively, forcing it against the first support, or the second support respectively.

[0019] According to one embodiment, when the first valve, or the second valve respectively, is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the third chamber exerts a pressure force on said first valve, or the second valve respectively, forcing it against the first support, or the second support respectively.

[0028]

[0020] According to one embodiment, when the first valve, respectively the second valve, is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the third chamber exerts a pressure force on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, tending to detach it from the first support, respectively from the second support.

[0029]

[0021] According to one embodiment, when the first valve, respectively the second valve, is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the first chamber, respectively in the second chamber, exerts a pressure force on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, tending to detach it from the first support, respectively from the second support.

[0030]

[0022] According to one embodiment, the supports are mounted to move in translation along the longitudinal axis and are each associated with a spring member acting on the corresponding support, so that said support has the capacity to follow the movement of said valve when it is in a closed position and subjected to the pressure force tending to detach it from said support.

[0031]

[0023] According to one embodiment, the spring element has a stiffness Kr such that Keq, with Keq the equivalent stiffness of the actuator.

[0032]

[0024] According to one embodiment, the actuator consists of a piezoelectric pillar formed by a stacking structure of piezoelectric elements, which pillar extends when energized and retracts when not energized.

[0033]

[0025] According to one embodiment, the piezoelectric pillar is axially prestressed by means of one or more prestressing rods forming spring elements whose restoring force acts in the direction of the pillar's retraction. Brief description of the figures.

[0034]

[0026] Other advantages and features of the invention will become more apparent upon reading the description of a preferred embodiment which follows, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples and on which:

[0035] [Fig. 1A] illustrates the principle of cooperation between the valves and the supports of the distributor which is the subject of the invention, the first valve being in the open position and the second valve in the closed position.

[0036] [Fig. 1 B] illustrates the first valve in the closed position and the second valve in the open position.

[0037] [Fig. 2A] is a hydraulic diagram of the distributor according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0038] [Fig. 2B] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to the first embodiment in a first position where the first valve is in the open position and the second valve is in the closed position.

[0039] [Fig. 2C] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to the first embodiment in a second position where the first valve is in the closed position and the second valve is in the open position.

[0040] [Fig. 3A] is a hydraulic diagram of the distributor according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0041] [Fig. 3B] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to the second embodiment in a first position where the first valve is in the open position and the second valve is in the closed position.

[0042] [Fig. 3C] is a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a distributor according to the second embodiment in a second position where the first valve is in the closed position and the second valve is in the open position. [Fig. 3D] is a hydraulic diagram of the distributor according to the second embodiment of the invention, in a reversible configuration.

[0043] [Fig. 4A] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to a third embodiment in a first position where the first valve is in the open position and the second valve is in the closed position.

[0044] [Fig. 4B] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to the third embodiment in a second position where the first valve is in the closed position and the second valve is in the open position.

[0045] [Fig. 5A] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to a fourth embodiment in a first position where the first valve is in the open position and the second valve is in the closed position.

[0046] [Fig. 5B] is a schematic longitudinal sectional view of a distributor according to the fourth embodiment in a second position where the first valve is in the closed position and the second valve is in the open position.

[0047] Description of the implementation methods.

[0048]

[0027] Where appropriate, and to possibly supplement their current definition, the following clarifications are provided for certain terms used in the claims and the description:

[0049] - "Electro-mechanically active actuator" means an actuator using elements made of an electro-mechanically active material that changes shape or size in response to an electric field, including both piezoelectric and electrostrictive materials.

[0050] - As used here, unless otherwise indicated, the possible use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", etc., to describe an object or stage simply indicates that different occurrences of similar objects or stages are being mentioned and does not imply that the objects or stages so described must be in any given sequence, whether in time, space, ranking, or any other way.

[0051] The adverbs "upstream" and "downstream" are used in relation to the flow of fluid in the distributor and / or the hydraulic circuit in which said distributor is installed.

[0052] - "X and / or Y" means: X alone or Y alone or X+Y.

[0053] - In general, it will be appreciated that on the various attached drawings, the objects are drawn arbitrarily to facilitate their reading.

[0054]

[0028] In the following, the invention is described primarily in relation to a hydraulic fluid, but of course the invention is not limited to this application and can be used with a gaseous fluid. The hydraulic fluid can be used as a means of power transmission in a hydraulic system. For example, it could be an incompressible mineral oil capable of rapidly transmitting energy from a pump to actuators and / or devices (cylinder, pump, motor, brake, etc.).

[0055] General description of the distributor.

[0056]

[0029] With reference to the accompanying figures, the distributor D comprises three ports 1, 2, 3 and two positions. The different ports 1, 2, 3 are intended to be connected each to a fluid conduit.

[0057]

[0030] The distributor D comprises a first support PS1 and a second support PS2 in each of which are provided fluid passage orifices OPS1, OPS2 in fluidic communication with the first channel 1. The supports PS1, PS2 can also be designated as valve seats or valve seats, these terms all being equivalent in the sense of the present invention.

[0058]

[0031] The distributor D also includes a first valve S1 and a second valve S1, S2 cooperating respectively with the first support PS1 and the second support PS2. Valves S1, S2 each have orifices OS1, OS2 for the passage of fluid respectively to the second channel 2 and to the third channel 3. The orifices OS1, OS2 are formed in the body of valves S1, S2. Valves S1, S2 may also be referred to as valves or obturators, these terms all being equivalent within the meaning of the present invention.

[0059]

[0032] The supports PS1, PS2 and the valves S1, S2 are in the form of Hörbiger plates of the type described in patent document WO2023 / 131660 and / or in the aforementioned publications by Branson et al. They are mounted in the body C of the distributor D. This body C is rigid, for example made of steel, preferably obtained by casting and machining. For ease of assembly and design, the supports PS1, PS2 and the valves S1, S2 have a generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section, although other cross-sections may be provided (square, rectangular, oval, etc.).

[0060]

[0033] The supports PS1, PS2 are rigid, preferably made of steel and machined. Their diameter is, for example, between 10 mm and 50 mm, and their height (or thickness) between 2 mm and 10 mm. According to an embodiment described later in this description, the supports PS1, PS2 are held in position within the body C, for example by a press fit or by welding. According to an alternative embodiment described later in this description, the supports PS1, PS2 are mounted to move in translation within the body C, along a longitudinal axis XX.

[0061]

[0034] The supports PS1, PS2 are advantageously identical. They can be separated from each other or fixed to each other and / or form a single unit.

[0062]

[0035] The valves S1, S2 are also rigid, preferably made of steel and machined. Their diameter corresponds to that of the supports PS1, PS2 and is, for example, between 10 mm and 50 mm, their height (or thickness) being between 2 mm and 10 mm. Each valve S1, S2 is mounted to move between an open position and a closed position. According to a preferred embodiment, they are mounted to move in translation within the body C, along the longitudinal axis XX. The valves S1, S2 are advantageously identical.

[0063]

[0036] Referring to Figures 1A and 1B, each support PS1, PS2 has a face fps1, fps2 located opposite a face fs1, fs2 of the corresponding valve S1, S2. These faces are hereinafter referred to as "cooperation faces".

[0037] The orifices OPS1, OPS2, OS1, OS2 are in the form of bores and / or concentric (or non-annular and / or non-concentric) annular grooves, or in the form of segments of concentric (or non-annular and / or non-concentric) annular grooves, formed in the body of the supports and valves and opening onto each of the faces of said supports and valves, and in particular the first faces Pf11, Pf21, PSf1, PSf2 respectively. These orifices are described in the aforementioned patent document WO2023 / 131660, to which a person skilled in the art may refer if necessary.

[0064]

[0038] The ports OPS1, OPS2, OS1, OS2 are in a cooperative configuration. More particularly, each support PS1, PS2 and each valve S1, S2 has at their respective cooperative face fps1, fps2, fs1, fs2, hollow parts (corresponding to the ports OPS1, OPS2, OS1, OS2) and solid parts bordering said hollow parts (corresponding to the hatched areas).

[0065]

[0039] In the first position of Figure 1 A, the first valve S1 is in the open position, spaced from the first support PS1. The orifices OS1 are spaced from the solid parts of the face fps1 of the first support PS1, so that the orifices OS1 and OPS1 are not blocked, allowing fluid to circulate between these orifices.

[0066]

[0040] In the second position of Figure 1B, the first valve S1 is in the closed position, its orifices OS1 being positioned opposite the solid portions of the face fps1 of the first support PS1. And the orifices OPS1 of the first support PS1 are positioned opposite the solid portions of the face fs1 of the first valve S1. The first support PS1 thus closes the orifices OS1 of the first valve S1, and vice versa, to block the flow of fluid between the orifices OS1 and OPS1.

[0067]

[0041] The same configurations appear at the level of the second valve S2 and the second support PS2, when said valve is in the open position (figure 1 B) and closed position (figure 1 A).

[0068]

[0042] An electro-mechanically active actuator A allows the first valve S1 and the second valve S2 to be moved simultaneously along the axis XX. The actuator A preferably consists of a stacking structure of piezoelectric elements or a stacking structure of electrostrictive elements (also referred to hereafter as a "pillar") or a piezoelectric or electrostrictive membrane.

[0069]

[0043] The pillar elements are advantageously in the form of piezoceramic or piezocomposite washers or discs with a diameter, for example, between 5 mm and 50 mm. The number of washers or discs can vary from 3 to 400 depending on the length of the pillar (which can be between 5 mm and 200 mm) and / or the mechanical force to be generated. For example, hard PZT (Lead Titanium Zirconate) ceramic washers are used. In the case of a piezoelectric membrane, it is advantageously a component of the polyvinylidine difluoride (PVDF) family, more particularly a PVDF derivative such as PVDF / PDMS (PDMS: polydimethylsiloxane).

[0070]

[0044] For electrostrictive elements, the materials used may for example include P(VDF-TrFE) polymers (vinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene copolymer) or PZN ceramics (lead zinc niobate).

[0071]

[0045] When actuator A is energized, its piezoelectric or electrostrictive elements become polarized and deform elastically to generate a mechanical stress. In one embodiment, the elastic deformation consists of an elongation of actuator A along the longitudinal axis XX. In other words, actuator A elongates when energized. And when it is de-energized, actuator A retracts and returns to its original position.

[0072]

[0046] The activation of actuator A is managed by a control unit CU, which may, for example, be in the form of a processor, microprocessor, or CPU (for Central Processing Unit), integrated into an electronic terminal (computer, PLC, etc.). For example, the control signal generated by the control unit CU and applied to actuator A may have a voltage between 0 V and 1000 V, with a current of 2 A to 10 A. The activation frequency of actuator A (switching frequency of the distributor D) may reach 2000 Hz. The control unit CU can adapt the control signal, in voltage and / or current, to optimize performance in terms of speed (opening / closing time) and / or precision of the movements of valves S1, S2, and / or noise emitted, etc. For example, a sinusoidal control signal reduces the noise generated by the movement of valves S1, S2 compared to a square control signal.

[0073]

[0047] In practice, the translation axis XX is materialized by a rod on which the valves S1, S2 are fixed. The extension or retraction of the actuator A induces a translation of this rod along the axis XX, and consequently a translation of the valves S1, S2. The latter can be secured to the rod by press fitting, by welding, by screwing or any other solution suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0074]

[0048] In figures 1 A and 1 B, the supports PS1, PS2 each have a central orifice O which acts as a guide for the rod.

[0075]

[0049] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figures 1A and 1B, the actuator A is dimensioned to move the valves S1, S2 a distance x s In other words, in the open position, the distance separating the cooperation face fs1, fs2 of the corresponding valve from the cooperation face fps1, fps2 of the corresponding support is xs This distance is advantageously between 20 pm and 150 pm. The fluid flow rate that can pass through orifices OS1-OPS1, respectively OS2-OPS2, can be easily controlled by adjusting the voltage applied to actuator A, which adjustment allows for adjusting the deformation of said actuator and thus this distance x s For example, for a displacement distance x s At approximately 80 pm, we obtain a flow rate of 10 L / min for a fluid at 5 bars, a flow rate of 15 L / min for a fluid at 10 bars and a flow rate of 80 L / min for a fluid at 300 bars.

[0076]

[0050] The actuator A is preferably sized to deliver a mechanical force between 1000 N (Newtons) and 10000 N. Referring, for example, to Figure 2B, the pillar A is advantageously axially prestressed by means of one or more prestressing rods Tg forming spring elements whose restoring force acts in the direction of the retraction of said pillar. These prestressing rods Tg make it possible to increase the retraction speed of the pillar A tenfold. The applicant has observed that the switching times of the distributor are on the order of 0.5 ms.

[0051] According to an embodiment allowing the best results in terms of switching speed between the positions of the distributor D, the prestressing force applied by the prestressing rod(s) Tg on the pillar A is between 5% and 20% of the mechanical force delivered by said pillar alone (i.e.without prestressing) and / or the prestressing rod(s) Tg have a stiffness between 10% and 20% of the stiffness of the column alone. In other words, the original (unprestressed) column A is 5 to 10 times stiffer than the prestressing rod(s) Tg. For example, column A alone has a stiffness of 96 MN / m (meganewons per meter) and the set of rods Tg, a stiffness of 16.5 MN / m (i.e., 5.5 MN / m per rod, if three prestressing rods are used). As another example, if pillar A delivers a mechanical force of 10 kN (Kilo Newton), the prestressing force applied by all the rods Tg is between 0.5 kN and 2 kN (i.e. between 0.15 and 0.7 kN per rod, if three prestressing rods are used).

[0077]

[0052] The prestressing rods Tg thus make it possible to further reduce the switching times of the distributor D, particularly when the fluid pressure is high. The applicant was able to observe experimentally that, compared to a non-prestressed pillar (for example, with the same pillar, but where the elements are bonded together), the prestressing rods Tg reduced the switching time by 20% at 100 bar and by 30% at 300 bar.

[0078] First embodiment: figures 2A, 2B, 2C.

[0079]

[0053] In this embodiment, the fluid passage ports OS1 and OS2 are in fluidic communication with the second channel 2 and the third channel 3, respectively. The first channel 1 is a fluid outlet, and the second and third channels 2 and 3 are fluid inlets. Fluid flows from the second channel 2 to the first channel 1 (first position – Figure 2B) or from the third channel 3 to the first channel 1 (second position – Figure 2C). The distributor D can be represented schematically by the symbol in Figure 2A.

[0080]

[0054] The second and third ports 2, 3 are preferably pressurized fluid inlets, so that chambers C1 and C2 are always pressurized. The first port 1 can be a low-pressure outlet, for example connected to a reservoir at atmospheric pressure (1 bar), or an outlet where the fluid is always pressurized.

[0081]

[0055] The supports PS1 and PS2 are fixed relative to the body C and the valves S1, S2 are mounted to move in translation along the axis XX.

[0082]

[0056] The first valve S1 is located at the level of a first chamber C1 incorporating the second channel 2. This first chamber C1 is located between the actuator A and the first valve S1. The orifices OS1 of the first valve S1 open into the first chamber C1 so that they are in fluidic communication with the second channel 2.

[0083]

[0057] The second valve S2 is arranged at the level of a second chamber C2 incorporating the third channel 3. The orifices OS2 of the second valve S2 open into the second chamber C2 so that they are in fluidic communication with the third channel 3.

[0084]

[0058] The two supports PS1, PS2 are arranged at the level of a third chamber C3 incorporating the first channel 1. This third chamber C3 is arranged between the supports PS1, PS2. The orifices OPS1, OPS2 of the supports PS1, PS2 open into the third chamber C3 so that they are in fluidic communication with the first channel 1.

[0085]

[0059] The various elements of the distributor D are arranged in the following order along the axis XX: the actuator A, the first chamber C1, the first valve S1, the first support PS1, the third chamber C3, the second support PS2, the second valve S2, the second chamber C2.

[0086]

[0060] When actuator A is energized (Figure 2C), it extends so that the first valve S1 is moved to the closed position and, simultaneously, the second valve S2 is moved to the open position. In this configuration, the first support PS1 blocks the orifices of the first valve S1 to prevent fluid flow through the orifices OS1-OPS1, and thus blocks flow between the first port 1 and the second port 2. The orifices OS2 of the second valve S2 and the orifices OPS2 of the second support PS2 are, however, free, allowing fluid flow through said orifices, and thus allowing flow between the first port 1 and the third port 3.

[0061] When actuator A is not energized, it retracts (Figure 2B) and returns to its original position.The first valve S1 is moved to the open position and, simultaneously, the second valve S2 is moved to the closed position. In this configuration, the second support PS2 blocks the ports of the second valve S2 to prevent fluid flow through the ports OS2-OPS2, and thus blocks flow between the first port 1 and the third port 3. The ports OS1 of the first valve S1 and the ports OPS1 of the first support PS1 are, however, free, allowing fluid flow through these ports, and thus allowing flow between the first port 1 and the second port 2.

[0087]

[0062] In this assembly, the second channel 2 is therefore naturally open and the third channel 3 is naturally closed: the first valve S1 is in the open position and the second valve S2 is in the closed position when the actuator A is not under power.

[0088]

[0063] However, a reverse configuration can be envisaged, in which the second channel 2 is naturally closed and the third channel 3 is naturally open, the first valve S1 being in the closed position and the second valve S2 in the open position when the actuator A is not energized. In this case, the actuator A is configured so that it extends when it is not energized and retracts when it is energized.

[0089]

[0064] In the position shown in Figure 2C, the pressurized fluid in the first chamber C1 exerts a force on the first valve S1, which is oriented towards the first support PS1, such that said first valve is pressed against said first support. This pressure force combines with that exerted by the actuator A to press the first valve S1 against the first support PS1 with maximum force. The sealing of the first valve S1 in the closed position is thus greatly improved. The same phenomenon is observed at the second valve S2 in the position shown in Figure 2B, that is, with the pressurized fluid in the second chamber C2 and the second valve S2 in the closed position.

[0090] Second embodiment: figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D.

[0065] The valves S1, S2, the supports PS1, PS2 and the chambers C1, C2, C3 are in the same arrangement as in the first embodiment.

[0091]

[0066] In this second embodiment, the first port 1 is a fluid inlet, and the second and third ports 2 and 3 are fluid outlets. The fluid flow thus occurs from the first port 1 to the second port 2 (first position – Figure 3B) or from the first port 1 to the third port 3 (second position – Figure 3C). The fluid flow is therefore reversed compared to the first embodiment. The distributor D can be represented schematically by the symbol in Figure 3A.

[0092]

[0067] The first channel 1 is preferably a pressurized fluid inlet so that chamber C3 is always under pressure, and the second and third channels 2, 3 are preferably low pressure outlets or outlets where the fluid is always under pressure.

[0093]

[0068] In the position shown in Figure 3C, the first valve S1 is in the closed position and the second valve S2 is in the open position. The pressurized fluid in the third chamber C3 exerts a force on the first valve S1, which is oriented opposite to the first support PS1. The first valve S1 may therefore tend to move away from the first support PS1 and open, compressing the actuator A and creating an opening (or leak) through which the fluid can pass. This leakage phenomenon is also observed at the second valve S2 in the position shown in Figure 3B (first valve S1 in the open position and second valve S2 in the closed position).

[0094]

[0069] This situation has no significant consequences for relatively low pressures (up to a few tens of bars), as leaks are negligible or nonexistent. However, for high pressures (especially above 100 bars), more significant leaks are observed, which can be problematic.

[0095]

[0070] To solve this technical problem, the supports PS1, PS2 are mounted to move in translation along the axis XX and are each associated with a spring element R1, R2.

[0071] The spring elements R1, R2 can each be in the form of one or more stacked spring washers (Belleville), one or more compression springs, one or more spring membranes, or any other type of equivalent element suitable to a person skilled in the art.

[0096]

[0072] The spring elements R1, R2 act on the supports PS1, PS2 in such a way that said supports are able to follow the movement of the valves S1, S2 when they are in the closed position and subjected to the pressure force tending to detach them from said supports. For example, in the position shown in Figure 3C, the support PS1 is also subjected to a fluid pressure force directed in the opposite direction to closure. The spring element R1 allows the first support PS1 to follow the movement of the first valve S1, to hold it in the closed position, without leakage. When the valve S1 reopens, the spring element R1, associated with the corresponding first support PS1, returns said support to its starting position. The spring element R2 acts in the same way on the second support PS2 when the second valve S2 is in the closed position (Figure 3B).

[0097]

[0073] The spring element R1, R2 is advantageously dimensioned so that its deformation, and therefore the displacement capacity of the support PS1, PS2 to which it is associated, is greater than that of the corresponding valve S1, S2. This dimensioning thus ensures that the corresponding valve S1, S2 remains in the closed position. The best results are obtained when the stiffness Kr of the spring element R1, R2 is such that Kr < Keq, where Keq is the equivalent stiffness of the actuator A (stiffness of the actuator alone when it is not prestressed or stiffness of the actuator and the prestressing rods when it is prestressed), and preferably when Kr < (Sps / Ss) x Keq, where Sps is the effective pressure surface of the support and Ss is the effective pressure surface of the valve. By "effective pressure surface," we mean the surface of the support or the valve on which the pressure force actually acts.

[0098]

[0074] A distributor D according to the second embodiment also functions according to the first embodiment, that is, when the first port 1 is a fluid outlet and the second and third ports 2, 3 are fluid inlets, the spring elements R1, R2 being inactive in this direction. The distributor D can thus be reversible and represented schematically by the symbol in Figure 3D. The fluid flow can indeed occur either from the first port 1 to the second port 2 or from the second port 2 to the first port 1 (first position), or from the first port 1 to the third port 3 or from the third port 3 to the first port 1 (second position).

[0099] Third embodiment: figures 4A, 4B.

[0100]

[0075] In this embodiment, the valves S1 and S2 are positioned between the supports PS1 and PS2.

[0101]

[0076] The first support PS1 is located in the first chamber C1, which incorporates the second channel 2. Its orifices OPS1 open into the first chamber C1, thus providing fluidic communication with the second channel 2. The second valve PS2 is located in the second chamber C2, which incorporates the third channel 3. Its orifices OPS2 open into the second chamber C2, thus providing fluidic communication with the third channel 3. The two valves S1 and S2 are located in the third chamber C3, which incorporates the first channel 1. Their orifices OS1 and OS2 allow fluid to pass to the second channel 2 and the third channel 3, respectively, but open into the third chamber C3, thus providing fluidic communication with the first channel 1.

[0102]

[0077] The various elements of the distributor D are thus arranged in the following order along the axis XX: the actuator A, the first chamber C1, the first support PS1, the first valve S1, the third chamber C3, the second valve S2, the second support PS2, the second chamber C2.

[0103]

[0078] When actuator A extends (Figure 4A), the first valve S1 is moved to the open position and, simultaneously, the second valve S2 is moved to the closed position. In this configuration, the second support PS2 blocks the orifices of the second valve S2 to prevent fluid flow through the orifices OS2-OPS2, and thus blocks flow between the first port 1 and the third port 3. The orifices OS1 of the first valve S1 and the orifices OPS1 of the first support PS1 are, however, free, allowing fluid flow through said orifices, and thus allowing flow between the first port 1 and the second port 2.

[0079] When actuator A retracts (Figure 4B), the first valve S1 is moved to the closed position and, simultaneously, the second valve S2 is moved to the open position.In this configuration, the first support PS1 blocks the orifices of the first valve S1 to block the flow of fluid through the orifices OS1-OPS1, and thus blocks the flow between the first channel 1 and the second channel 2. The orifices OS2 of the second valve S2 and the orifices OPS2 of the second support PS2 are free, allowing the flow of fluid through said orifices, and thus allowing the flow between the first channel 1 and the third channel 3.

[0104]

[0080] In this assembly, the second channel 2 is therefore naturally closed and the third channel 3 is naturally open: the first valve S1 is in the closed position and the second valve S2 is in the open position when the actuator A is not energized.

[0105]

[0081] In this assembly, the first channel 1 is preferably a pressurized fluid inlet so that chamber C3 is always under pressure, and the second and third channels 2, 3 are preferably low pressure outlets or outlets where the fluid is always under pressure.

[0106]

[0082] In the position shown in Figure 4A, when the pressurized fluid enters the third chamber C3 through the first port 1, it exerts a force on the valve S2, which is oriented towards the second support PS2, such that said second valve is pressed against said second support. This pressure force combines with that exerted by the actuator A to press the second valve S2 against the second support PS2 with maximum force. The sealing of the second valve S2 in the closed position is thus greatly improved. The same phenomenon is observed at the first valve S1 in the position shown in Figure 4B.

[0107] Fourth embodiment: figures 5A, 5B.

[0108]

[0083] This embodiment replicates the arrangement of the third embodiment, but in which the first port 1 is a fluid outlet and the second and third ports 2, 3 are fluid inlets, preferably pressurized fluid inlets. Chambers C1 and C2 are therefore always pressurized.

[0084] In the position shown in Figure 5A, the first valve S1 is in the open position and the second valve S2 is in the closed position. The pressurized fluid in the first chamber C1 exerts a force on the first valve S1, which is oriented opposite to the first support PS1. This pressure force combines with that exerted by the actuator A to further accelerate the opening of the first valve S1. The same phenomenon is observed at the second valve S2 in the position shown in Figure 5B when the pressurized fluid enters the second chamber C2 through the third port 3.

[0109]

[0085] However, the pressure in the second chamber C2 tends to push the second valve S2 away from the second support PS2, creating an opening (or leak) through which the fluid can pass. This leakage phenomenon is also observed at the first valve S1 in the position shown in Figure 5B (first valve S1 in the closed position and second valve S2 in the open position).

[0110]

[0086] To solve this technical problem, and as in the second embodiment, the supports PS1, PS2 are mounted to move in translation along the axis XX and are each associated with a spring element R1, R2. These spring elements R1, R2 are similar to those described with reference to the second embodiment. They act on the supports PS1, PS2 in such a way that said supports are able to follow the movement of the valves S1, S2 when they are in the closed position and subjected to the pressure force tending to detach them from said supports. For example, in the position shown in Figure 5A, the second support PS2 is also subjected to the pressure force of the fluid in the second chamber C2, directed in the opposite direction to closure. The spring element R2 allows the second support PS2 to follow the movement of the second valve S2, to maintain it in the closed position, without leakage.When the second valve S2 reopens, the spring element R2 returns the second support PS2 to its starting position. The spring element R1 acts in the same way on the first support PS1 when the first valve S1 is in the closed position (Figure 5B).

[0111]

[0087] A distributor D according to the fourth embodiment also functions according to the third embodiment, that is, when the first port 1 is a fluid inlet and the second and third ports 2, 3 are fluid outlets, the spring elements R1, R2 being inactive in this direction. The distributor D can thus be reversible and can also be represented schematically by the symbol in Figure 3D.

[0112]

[0088] The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and / or means and / or steps, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0113]

[0089] Furthermore, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be combined with one or more other features described only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be generalized to other embodiments, even if this or these features are described only in combination with other features.

[0114]

[0090] The use of the verb "comprise", "comprendre" or "include" and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or other steps than those stated in a claim.

Claims

Demands

1. [Three-way (1, 2, 3) and two-position distributor, characterized in that it comprises: - a first and a second support (PS1, PS2) in each of which are provided fluid passage orifices (OPS1, OPS2) in fluidic communication with a first channel (1), - a first and a second valve (S1, S2) each having fluid passage orifices (OS1, OS2) in fluidic communication with respectively a second way (2) and a third way (3), each valve cooperating with one of the supports (PS1, PS2), said valves and said supports being arranged along a longitudinal axis (XX), - an electromechanically active actuator (A) configured to simultaneously move the first and second valves (S1, S2) along the longitudinal axis (XX), between: o a first position in which: ■ The first valve (S1) is spaced from the first support (PS1) to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication between the first channel (1) and the second channel (2). ■ and simultaneously the second valve (S2) is pressed against the second support (PS2) to close their respective orifices and block fluid communication between the first channel (1) and the third channel (3), o a second position in which: ■ The second valve (S2) is spaced from the second support (PS2), to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication from the first channel (1) with the third channel (3), ■ and simultaneously the first valve (S1) is pressed against the first support (PS1) to close their respective orifices and block fluidic communication between the first channel (1) and the second channel (2).

2. Distributor according to claim 1, wherein: - the distributor has along the longitudinal axis (XX) and in the following order: the actuator (A), a first chamber (C1) integrating the second channel (2), the first valve (S1), the first support (PS1), a third chamber (C3) integrating the first channel (1), the second support (PS2), the second valve (S2), a second chamber (C2) integrating the third channel (3), - the fluid passage orifices (OS1) of the first valve (S1) open into the first chamber (C1), the fluid passage orifices (OS2) of the second valve (S2) open into the second chamber (C2), the fluid passage orifices (OPS1, OPS2) of the supports (PS1, PS2) open into the third chamber (C3).

3. A three-way (1, 2, 3) and two-position distributor, characterized in that it comprises: - a first and a second support (PS1, PS2) in each of which are provided fluid passage orifices (OPS1, OPS2) in fluidic communication with respectively a second channel (2) and a third channel (3), - a first and a second valve (S1, S2) each having fluid passage orifices (OS1, OS2) in fluidic communication with a first channel (1), each valve cooperating with one of the supports (PS1, PS2), said valves and said supports being arranged along a longitudinal axis (XX), - an electromechanically active actuator (A) configured to simultaneously move the first and second valves (S1, S2) along the longitudinal axis (XX), between: o a first position in which: ■ The first valve (S1) is spaced from the first support (PS1) to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication between the first channel (1) and the second channel (2). ■ and simultaneously the second valve (S2) is pressed against the second support (PS2) to close their respective orifices and block fluidic communication between the first channel (1) and the third channel (3), or a second position in which: ■ The second valve (S2) is spaced from the second support (PS2), to allow fluid circulation between their respective orifices and fluid communication from the first channel (1) with the third channel (3), ■ and simultaneously the first valve (S1) is pressed against the first support (PS1) to close their respective orifices and block fluidic communication between the first channel (1) and the second channel (2).

4. Distributor according to claim 3, wherein: - the distributor has along the longitudinal axis (XX) and in the following order: the actuator (A), a first chamber (C1) integrating the second channel (2), the first support (PS1), the first valve (S1), a third chamber (C3) integrating the first channel (1), the second valve (S2), the second support (PS2), a second chamber (C2) integrating the third channel (3), - the fluid passage ports (OPS1) of the first support (PS1) open into the first chamber (C1), the fluid passage ports (OS1, OS2) of the valves (S1, S2) open into the third chamber (C3), the fluid passage ports (OPS2) of the second support (PS2) open into the second chamber (C3).

5. Distributor according to any one of claims 2, 3 or 4, wherein the first port (1) is a fluid outlet and the second and third ports (2, 3) are pressurized fluid inlets, such that in use, the fluid circulates as follows: - in the first position of the distributor: from the second lane (2) to the first lane (1), and - in the second position of the distributor: from the third way (3) to the first way (1).

6. Distributor according to any one of claims 2, 3 or 4, wherein the first channel (1) is a pressurized fluid inlet and the The second and third paths (2, 3) are fluid outlets, so that in use, the fluid circulates as follows: - in the first position of the distributor: from the first lane (1) to the second lane (2), and - in the second position of the distributor: from the first lane (1) to the third lane (3).

7. Distributor according to claim 5 taken in combination with claim 2, wherein when the first valve (S1), respectively the second valve (S2), is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the first chamber (C1), respectively in the second chamber (C2), exerts a pressure force on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, forcing it against the first support (PS1), respectively against the second support (PS2).

8. Distributor according to claim 6 taken in combination with claim 3 or 4, wherein when the first valve (S1), respectively the second valve (S2), is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the third chamber (C3) exerts a pressure force on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, forcing it against the first support (PS1), respectively against the second support (PS2).

9. Distributor according to claim 6 taken in combination with claim 2, wherein when the first valve (S1), respectively the second valve (S2), is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the third chamber (C3) exerts a pressure force on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, tending to detach it from the first support (PS1), respectively from the second support (PS2).

10. Distributor according to claim 5 taken in combination with claim 3 or 4, wherein when the first valve (S1), respectively the second valve (S2), is in a closed position, the pressurized fluid in the first chamber (C1), respectively in the second chamber (C2), exerts a force of pressure on said first valve, respectively on said second valve, tending to detach it from the first support (PS1), respectively from the second support (PS2).

11. Distributor according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the supports (PS1, PS2) are mounted movable in translation along the longitudinal axis (XX) and are each associated with a spring member (R1, R2) acting on the corresponding support, so that said support has the capacity to follow the movement of said valve when it is in a closed position and subjected to the pressure force tending to detach it from said support.

12. Distributor according to claim 11, wherein the spring element (R1, R2) has a stiffness Kr such that Kr < Keq, with Keq the equivalent stiffness of the actuator (A).

13. Distributor according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (A) consists of a piezoelectric pillar formed by a stacking structure of piezoelectric elements, which pillar extends when energized and retracts when not energized.

14. Distributor according to claim 13, wherein the piezoelectric pillar (A) is axially prestressed by means of one or more prestressing rods (Tg) forming spring elements whose restoring force acts in the direction of the retraction of said pillar.

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