Pneumatic valve

Abstract

A pneumatic valve is provided. The valve includes a unitary body having a passage therethrough and a circumferential groove about a proximal end of the body, the passage having a first portion of a constant diameter from a proximal end, and a second portion extending from the first portion to a distal end of the body. A seal is disposed in the second portion of the passage. A plug is disposed through the passage and selectively engageable with the seal. A spring us disposed in the passage and operably coupled to the plug, the spring biasing the plug into a first position. When the plug is in the first position a head of the plug is biased against the seal to prevent fluid communication through the passage, when the plug is in a second position, the plug is disengaged from the seal to allow fluid communication therethrough.

Description

138191-01420PNEUMATIC VALVECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit and priority to United States Provisional Application Serial Number 63 / 709,125 filed October 18, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to a pneumatic valve design / system, such as those used with tube and tubeless bicycle tires, and methods of making and using the same. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to improvements in pneumatic valve systems to serve as an alternative to Schrader, Presta, and Dunlop valves, and other pneumatic valves known in the art.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Various pneumatic values have been long used to regulate pressurized air in tires, tubes, and other pressurized structures. Pneumatic values known in the art include the Schrader (also referred to as an American valve), Presta (also referred to as a French or Sclaverland valve), and Dunlop (also referred to as a Woods, English, or Blitz valve) valves, among others. These valves have been widely adopted in various industries notably tires, including, tube and tubeless tires in bicycle and automotive applications. However, the aforementioned valves known in the art suffer from design flaws which make them difficult and / or awkward to use.

[0004] It can be difficult or awkward to attach a pump head to the valve and maintain a reliable, airtight seal while filling the device. This may lead to leaks, drops in air pressure, or unreliable pressure readings which may in turn increase the time required to achieve the desired air pressure in the device.

[0005] In the context of bicycle and automotive tires this is especially problematic since a user will often need to be bent or hunched over near the tire to secure and monitor the connection with the valve for prolonged periods of time. Additionally, low pressure or inaccurate pressure readings may cause uneven wear on the tires, reduced vehicle efficiency, reduced tire lifetime, damage to the tire rims, and may even void a manufacturer warranty.1MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420

[0006] Schrader valves are known for their ease of use but suffer from other design issues. For example, most if not all Schrader valves use a tool or other object to activate the check-valve to be able to adjust the pressure and doing so without the proper tool risks damaging the valve. Additionally, the pump head is secured to the outside of the Schrader valve creating a large internal surface area connection between the pump head and the valve. As a result, particularly at high pressures, the pump head experiences significant outward forces which may cause or exacerbate leaks and may even dislodge the pump head. As such pump heads for use with Schrader valves often use a locking mechanism to secure the pump head to the valve. The locking mechanism exerts a compression force of the valve and has the potential to damage the valve and / or reduce air throughput / pumping efficiency. Furthermore, such locking mechanisms may be difficult or awkward to operate and involve more user attention or the use of two hands since failure to properly secure the pump head may result in air leaks or the pump head being dislodged. Lastly, the difficulty in securing the pump head to a Schrader valve is particularly detrimental in a racing context where speed, precision, and reliability are paramount.

[0007] Presta valves suffer from similar problems to the Schrader valve, i.e., the pump heading being dislodged at high pressures. The Presta valve is known as being difficult to use, being sensitive to work with and involving more patience / skill than comparable valves. For instance Presta valves include an additional nut that is unscrewed before use as well as using a specialized pump. Once the nut is unscrewed the valve pin is sensitive whereby accidental movement may potentially release air. Presta valves are also relatively long and thin, as opposed to Schrader valves which are short and stout, and are therefore delicate / prone to being damaged.

[0008] Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved pneumatic valve which address the above design needs and short comings of conventional devices known in the art.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] According to an aspect of the disclosure a pneumatic valve is provided. The valve includes a unitary body having a passage therethrough and a radially-engageable annular circumferential groove about a circumference of a proximal end of the body, the groove being nonhelical, non-threaded and having a semi-circular cross-section, the groove being configured to engage and axially restrain a pump head, the passage having a first portion of a constant diameter from a proximal end, and a second portion extending from the first portion to a distal end of the2MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 body. A seal is disposed in the second portion of the passage. A plug is disposed through the passage and selectively engageable with the seal, the plug being moveable between a first position and a second position. A spring is disposed in the passage and operably coupled to the plug, the spring biasing the plug into a first position. An insert is coupled to the unitary body within the passage, the insert defining a passageway and a spring seat, the spring being disposed between the spring seat and the plug. When the plug is in the first position a head of the plug is biased against the seal to prevent fluid communication through the passage. When the plug is in the second position, the plug is disengaged from the seal to allow fluid communication therethrough.

[0010] According to another aspect of the disclosure a pneumatic valve is provided. The valve includes a unitary body having a passage therethrough and a radially-engageable annular groove about a circumference of a proximal end of the body, the passage having a first portion of a constant diameter from a proximal end, and a second portion extending from the first portion to a distal end of the body. An insert is coupled to the unitary body within the passage, the insert defining a passageway. An overmolded seal is coupled to the insert. A plug is disposed within the passage and selectively engageable with the overmolded seal, the plug being moveable between a first position and a second position. A spring is disposed in the passage and operably coupled to the plug, the spring biasing the plug into a first position. When the plug is in the first position a head of the plug is biased against the overmolded seal to prevent fluid communication through the passage. When the plug is in the second position, the plug is disengaged from the overmolded seal to allow fluid communication therethrough.

[0011] These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The subject matter, which is regarded as the disclosure, is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a side view of the a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with an embodiment;3MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420

[0014] FIG. 2A is a cross sectioned view of a pneumatic valve of FIG. 1 formed in a unitary core body with an insert in accordance with an embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C are alternate views of the valve of FIG. 2A;

[0016] FIG. 3 is an unassembled view of the valve of FIG. 2A;

[0017] FIG. 4A is a cross sectioned view of a pneumatic valve of FIG. 1 in accordance with another embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C are alternate views of the valve of FIG. 4A;

[0019] FIG. 5 is a cross sectioned view of a pneumatic valve formed in a unitary core body with a valve insert;

[0020] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are alternate views of the valve of FIG. 5;

[0021] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the valve of FIG. 5;

[0022] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are cross sectioned views of a pneumatic valve formed in a unitary core body with an overmolded seal in accordance with an embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 9 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with another embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 9 with a disengaged pump head;

[0025] FIG. 11 A and FIG. 1 IB are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 9 with an engaged pump head;

[0026] FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B are cross sectioned views of a pneumatic valve formed in a unitary core body with an overmolded seal formed in an insert in accordance with an embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 13 A- FIG. 13D are various views of the overmolded seal insert for the valve of FIG. 12A in accordance with an embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 14 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with another embodiment;4MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420

[0029] FIG. 15 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with another embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 13 with a disengaged pump head;

[0031] FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 13 with an engaged pump head;

[0032] FIG. 18 is a cross sectioned view of a pneumatic valve coupled to a valve stem with an overmolded seal in accordance with an embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 19 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with an embodiment;

[0034] FIG. 20 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with another embodiment;

[0035] FIG. 21 A and FIG. 2 IB are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 20 with a disengaged pump head;

[0036] FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 20 with an engaged pump head;

[0037] FIG. 23 is a cross sectioned view of a pneumatic valve coupled to a valve stem with an overmolded seal formed in an insert;

[0038] FIG. 24 is a pneumatic valve connected to a pressurized vessel in accordance with an embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 25 is a cross section view of FIG. 24;

[0040] FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 24 with a disengaged pump head; and

[0041] FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B are schematic views of the valve of FIG. 24 with an engaged pump head.

[0042] The detailed description explains embodiments of the disclosure, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.5MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The present disclosure provides exemplary embodiments of a pneumatic valve and related methods of use thereof. The described valve serves as an improved alternative to conventional pneumatic valves known and used in the art for both tube tires and tubeless tires. The disclosed valve is configured to have backwards compatibility with existing valves and pump heads. Accordingly, it is appreciated that variations in the size, scale, or dimensions of the disclosed valve may vary to comport with known pneumatic valves and pump heads, e.g., Schrader, Presta, or Dunlop valves and pump heads, are contemplated herein. Accordingly, it is expressly within the scope of the present disclosure that the embodiments and teachings described herein are applicable to and may be adapted for use as or with, or in place of, any known pneumatic valves and pump heads, including but not limited to Schrader and Dunlop valves and pump heads.

[0044] The embodiments discussed herein are described in relation with a tube tire or tubeless tire. It is appreciated that any embodiments described in relation to a tube tire may be used in a tubeless tires and any embodiments described in relation to a tubeless tire may be used in a tube tire. Further, the features and advantage described herein in relation to a given embodiment may be used in combination, in addition, or in place of one or more features of another embodiment without departing from the scope and sprit of the present disclosure.

[0045] Additionally, embodiments of the valve design disclosed herein provides for a valve having a unitary body member which allows the valve is integrated with a valve stem. This provides technical effect of allowing the valve to be manufactured with less components and with various manufacturing techniques that reduce cost and improve reliability over known valves.

[0046] As used herein, the term “unitary” means a component that is one-piece or monolithic. As used herein, the terms “unitary”, “one-piece” and “monolithic” may be used interchangeably. A “unitary valve body” or “unitary valve core” is a single-piece body element that extends from the pressure vessel, tire, or rim to an opposite end that is configured to couple with a pump valve.

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 1 - FIG. 2C, shown is an inflatable tube 200 with a valve 600 according to an embodiment. In tube type inflation structures the tube 200 may typically be positioned inside a wheel between the tire and rim and when pressurized will support the tire internally. The tube 200 may have a valve stem 601 integrated therewith such that the valve stem6MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420601 and tube 200 are coupled creating an air tight seal. The outside diameter of the valve stem 601 may have threads 602 along the length of the valve stem 601 between the stem end 605 and the tube 200. In some embodiments the threads 602 may be configured to receive a nut. The nut may help bias the valve stem 601 to the tube 200 and may improve / strengthen the seal between the valve stem 601 and tube 200.

[0048] It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein illustrate the disclosed valve as being coupled or integrated with an inner tube type wheel, this is for example purposes only and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the disclosed valve may be connected with a “tubeless” tire formed by a rim and wheel without deviating from the teachings provided herein. The inner tube and tubeless tire may also be referred to as the “pressure vessel” that the valve is attached to.

[0049] The valve 600 may have a generally cylindrical and hollow body 601 with varying diameter geometry along the length of the body 601 having an inlet or first end 626 and an outlet or second end 130. The first end 626 may receive at least a portion of the pump head (shown in, e.g., FIGS. 8B) and the second end 630 may be disposed in a valve stem 201 for discharging air into an inflatable structure. In an embodiment one or both of the first end 626 and the second end 630 may be beveled, chamfered, or otherwise angled. The body 601 may include a groove 102, knurling, flat grip, and threading on the body 601 and a valve gasket 610 disposed around the body 601 near or adjacent to the second end 630. The groove 102 may be a concave grove about the circumference of the body 101 and may be adapted to receive an O-ring or other fastening feature on the pump-head, such as described in commonly owned United States Patent 12,092,230 entitled “Pump head for bicycle tire inner tube with pneumatic valve” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In the exemplary embodiment, the groove 102 is an annular groove that is a non-helical, non-threaded and has a semi-circular cross-section. The groove is positioned on a circumference of a proximal end of the body 601 and is configured to engage and axially restrain a pump head, The knurling and flat grip provided on the body 601 may provide advantages to the user in handling of the valve when attaching / securing the pump head (shown in, e.g., FIGS. 8B) or the valve stem 601.

[0050] In the embodiment of FIG. 2A - FIG. 2C the pneumatic valve 600 formed in a unitary core body 600 with a locking pin or insert 2201 according to some embodiments of the7MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 present disclosure. The valve 600 is formed with the unitary core body 601 having the spring 118 being held in place by an insert 2201.

[0051] The valve 600 may have an O-ring 2232 disposed in a groove in the passage 124 and a head 115 of a plug 2212 biased against the O-ring 2232 by the spring 118 forming a seal in the valve 600. In this embodiment, the passage 124 includes a groove 125 that has a diameter that is larger than the inlet portion of the passage 124. The groove 125 is sized to receive and retain the O-ring 2232 during operation.

[0052] In this embodiment, the plug 2212 is axially disposed within the passageway 124 and includes a cylindrical body portion 2213A with a conical portion 2213B extending axially therefrom. The conical portion 2213B is sized to selectively engage the O-ring 2232 under the biasing force of spring 118 and prevent the flow of a gas (e.g. air) through the passageway 124. In an embodiment, the plug 2213A includes a projection 2213C that extends from the conical portion 2213B and extends past the end 126. Extending from an opposite side of the body 2213 A is a second cylindrical portion 2213D. The second cylindrical portion 2213D may include a hole on an end opposite the projection 2213C that reduces the weight of the plug 2213 A and facilitate with the manufacturability of the plug.

[0053] A locking ring or insert 2201 may be disposed in the core body 601 adjacent to the spring 118 and the insert 2201 may have an interference fit with the inner diameter of passage 124 to removably fix the insert 2201 in place to retain the spring 118 and the plug 2212 in the core body 601. In this way, the plug 2212, the spring 118, and the insert 2201 may be loaded into core body 601 via an opening 603 in the second end 630. The insert 2201 compresses the spring 118 to create a biasing force against the plug 2212 to bias the plug 2212 against the O-ring 2232, whereby the locking ring 2201 is actuated to fix the insert 2201 in place to maintain the biasing force. In the exemplary embodiment, the insert 2201 is coupled to the inner diameter of passageway 124 via an interference-fit or a press-fit for example. In an embodiment, an adhesive may also be used to couple the insert 2201 to the core body 601. In an embodiment, the passage 124 includes a shoulder 2202. In an embodiment, a top surface of the insert 2201 is pressed against or engages the shoulder 2202 during assembly. In this embodiment, the spring 118 is disposed between the top surface of the insert and the end of the second portion 2213D.8MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420

[0054] As described in more detail herein, in operation when additional air is desired in the pressure vessel, a pump head is coupled to the valve. The pump head includes an element, such as an inflation pin for example, that engages the plug 2212 causing the spring 118 to compress. The axial movement of the plug 2212 causes the conical portion 2213B to separate from the O-ring 2232 allowing the pump head to be in fluid communication with the pressure vessel. In an embodiment, when it is desired to reduce the pressure in the pressure vessel, the operator may apply a force to the plug 2212 via the projection 2213C causing the conical portion 2213B to separate from the O-ring 2232 to put the pressure vessel in fluid communication with the environment.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 4A - FIG. 4C another embodiment of a valve 650 is shown. The valve 650 is similar to the valve 600 in that there is an O-ring 2232 disposed within the passageway 124. A plug 2212 is disposed within the passageway to selectively engage the O-ring 2232 to allow a gas / air to flow therethrough. In this embodiment, the plug 2212 includes a second projection 2213E instead of the second cylindrical portion 2213D. The projection 2213E is sized to fit within the inner diameter of spring 118.

[0056] In this embodiment, an insert 2203 is inserted into the passageway 124 (via opening 603). The insert includes a top portion 2204A that is positioned to support the O-ring 2232. A lip 127 is formed in the core body 127 to engage a side of the O-ring 2232 opposite the insert 2203. The insert 2203 includes a passageway 2204B that extends therethrough that is sized to receive the spring 118. The insert 2203 further includes a shoulder or lip 2204C that extends into the passageway to support an end of the spring 118. In an embodiment, the O-ring 2232, plug 2212, spring 118 and insert 2203 are assembled into the valve body 601 via the opening 603 in the same manner as valve 600. In an embodiment, the insert 2203 is coupled to the core body 601 via an interference-fit or a press-fit. In an embodiment, the insert 2203 is coupled to the body 601 via an adhesive.

[0057] In an embodiment, insert 2203 may have optional channels 2205 formed in the inner diameter of the passageway 2204B and / or optional channels 2206 in the outer diameter of body 2213A and conical portion 2213B. The optional channels 2206 are positioned radially outward from the contact point of the O-ring 2232 on the conical portion 2213B. In an embodiment, a plurality of channels 2205, 2206 are provided that are positioned equidistant from9MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 each other about the inner diameter of the passageway and / or the plug respectively. It should be appreciated that in embodiments where the channels 2205, 2206 are included, advantages are provided in increasing the cross-sectional area provided for air flow.

[0058] Referring now to FIG. 5-7, shown is pneumatic valve 700 having a valve core insert 2501 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The valve 2500 is constructed similar to valve 600 and valve 650 with the valve being formed in a unitary core body 601 with a valve core insert 2501. For conciseness, only the differences between the valve 2500 and the valve 600 and valve 650 will be described. Similar to the valve 650, the valve insert 2501 may have a passage 2524 with an outlet portion 2528 adjacent to the passage 2524. The outlet portion 2528 having a diameter less than the diameter of the passage 2524. A plug 112 may be disposed in the valve insert 2501 , with a plug gasket 114 coupled to the plug 112 engaging an end 2530 of the valve insert 2501 forming an air tight seal. The valve insert 2501 may also have an internal shoulder 2520 adjacent to the outlet portion 2528 and the spring 118 may be disposed in the valve and positioned against the shoulders 2520 of the valve insert 2501 and the shoulder 122 of the plug 112 to bias the plug gasket 114 against the end 2530 of the valve insert. The valve 2500 may have an O-ring 2232 disposed in the passage 124 between a space in the passage 124 between an end of the valve insert 2501 and the shoulder or lip 127. In such embodiments, the valve insert 2501, the plug 112, the O-ring 2232, and the spring 118 may be loaded or assembled into the core body 601 via the second end 603 to form a valve seal in the core body 601 as described with respect to valve 600 and valve 650.

[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 8A-11B, shown is a pneumatic valve 800 with an overmolded seal 132 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The valve 800 is constructed similar to valve 600 with the valve body and the valve stem being formed as a unitary core body 601. For conciseness, only the differences between the valve 800 and the valve 600 will be described. In this embodiment, the valve body 101 and the valve stem 201 are a single core body 601 which is connected to the pressurized vessel 200. This configuration may be desirable as a simplified design as compared to the valve 600.

[0060] The passage 124 may also include an overmolded seal 132 therein, whereby the overmolded seal 132 is formed directly on the interior side walls of the passage 124. Use of an overmolded seal 132 may be desirable since, for example, a grove or other feature in the inner10MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 diameter of the passage 124 does not need to be form to retain another type of seal. As used herein, the term “overmolded” refers to a two-step injection molding process that combines multiple materials into a single part or product. It should be appreciated that the seal 132 and body 101 may be fabricated together using other processes, such as but not limited to insert injection molding techniques for example.

[0061] In this embodiment, the overmolded seal 132 both forms a seal with a pump insert 412 when a pump head is attached as well as a valve seal which the head 115 of the plug 112 is biased against. In some embodiments, the head 115 of the plug 112 may have a circular or conical shape to mate with the overmolded seal 132. In this way, the valve 800 has one point of contact which seals the connect pressurized vessel and which is unsealed and resealed when a pump head 400 is attached.

[0062] In this embodiment, the plug 112 may be disposed through the passage 124 and portions of the plug 112 may extend out of the body 601 through the first end 626. The plug 112 may have a head 115 having a generally T-shape defining a second shoulder 122. The length of the head 115 may be generally equal to the diameter of the passage 124 with spaces 134 on either side of the head 115 allowing for air to pass into the passage 124. The plug 112 may have a pin or projection 626 extending out from the head 115. In an embodiment the head 115 is located below (e.g. axially adjacent or offset closer to the pressure vessel or tire) a semi-toroidal projection 133 portion of the overmolded seal 132. In an embodiment, the head 115 is opposite the first end 126 and the pin or projection 2213C extends through a through-hole or passageway in the overmolded seal 132 and is partially exposed out of the first end 626. The plug 112 may include a plug gasket 114 disposed around a portion or end of the plug 112 opposite the head 115 and the pin 116. The plug gasket 114 may be sized to, in combination with the plug 112, have a diameter greater than the diameter of the outlet portion 128.

[0063] The passage 124 may also house a biasing member, such as constant force spring 118 therein. In an embodiment, the spring 118 is a compression spring. Opposing ends of the spring 118 may rest on the shoulders 120, 122 and apply a biasing force on the plug 112 via the second should 122. The spring 118 may bias the valve 800 and plug 112 into a first position (also referred to as a closed or disengaged position). In an embodiment it may be desirable to use a spring 118 with similar load values to known valves when in the first position and the second11MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 position (also referred to as an open or engaged position). This may in turn provide a user a similar feel when engaging and disengaging the pump and provide greater backwards compatibility with preexisting systems.

[0064] In the exemplary non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8A, shown is the valve 800 in the closed or first position. The spring 118 biases the plug 112 toward the first end 126 whereby the plug gasket 114 is wedged into the second end 130 and outlet portion 128 creating an air tight seal and the pin 116 extends through the projection 133 and partially out of the first end 126. The outlet portion 128 is sized to prevent the plug gasket 114 from passing through the outlet portion 128 even when then plug gasket 114 is compressed due to the force of the spring 118 and pressure forces. Further, the second end 130 is angled and sized to receive the plug gasket 114, thereby creating a tighter seal as the plug gasket 114 experiences higher compression forces. A force compresses the spring 118 and moves the plug 112 through the second end 130 whereby the end of the pin 116 is below the first end 126 and fully inside the passage 124. The plug gasket 114 is disengaged from the outlet portion 128 and the second end 130 thereby opening the valve 100 to allow gas / air to pass through the first end 126, the spaces 134, the passage 124, the outlet portion 128 and the second end 130.

[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 12A-17B, shown is a pneumatic valve 1100 with an overmolded seal 132 formed on an insert 1101 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The valve 1100 is constructed similar to valve 800 with the valve body and the valve stem being formed as a unitary core body 601. In this embodiment, the overmolded seal 132 is formed on a removable insert 1101 disposed in the passage 124. For conciseness, only the differences between the valve 1100 and the valve 800 will be described. In this embodiment, the an insert 1101 may be slotted into the first end 626, the insert having the overmolded seal 132 formed thereon. The insert 1101 and overmolded seal 132 may be removably disposed in the passage 124 and coupled to the sidewalls of the passage 124. This configuration may be desirable as a removable overmolded seal 132 design may be replaced if the overmolded seal 132 is worn or damaged. In some embodiments, manufacturing the overmolded seal 132 on the insert 1101 and12MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 coupling the insert 1101 to the valve 1100 in the passage 124 may be desirable rather than forming the overmolded seal 132 directly on the valve 1100.

[0066] The insert 1101 is shown in FIGS 13A - 13D according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The insert 1101 may have a lip 1103 on a first end of the insert 1101. In some embodiments the lip 1103 may sit flush with the first end 126 of the valve 1100, 1600 in a counter bored groove in the first end 126. The insert 1101 may also have a seal opening 1105 on a second end of the insert 1101, opposite the lip 1103 and the first end of the insert 1101. The overmolded seal 132 may be formed in the hollow interior of the insert 1101 and sit on a shoulder 1107 of the insert 1101 adjacent to the seal opening 1105. In some embodiments the seal opening 1105 is sized and dimension to allow the pin or projection 2213C and at least part of the head 115 of the plug 112 to pass through the seal opening 1105. A portion of the head 115 may be disposed though the seal opening 1105 and engage the overmolded seal 132 to seal the valve 1100, 1600 and a connected pressurized vessel 200.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 18 - FIG. 22B, shown is a pneumatic valve 100 with an over molded seal 132 that is coupled to a stem 201 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The valve 100 may have a generally cylindrical and hollow body 101 with varying diameter geometry along the length of the body 101 having an inlet or first end 126 and an outlet or second end 130. The first end 126 may receive at least a portion of the pump head (shown in, e.g., FIGS. 21 A - 22B) and the second end 130 may be in fluid communication with the valve stem 201 for discharging air into a pressure vessel or other inflatable structure (e.g. tube or tubeless tire). In an embodiment one or both of the first end 126 and the second end 130 may be beveled, chamfered, or otherwise angled. The body 101 may include a groove 102, knurling 104, flat grip 106, and threading 108 on the body 101 and a valve gasket 110 disposed around the body 101 near or adjacent to the second end 130. The knurling 104 and flat grip 106 may provide the user superior handling of the valve when attaching / securing the pump head (shown in, e.g., FIG. 21A - FIG. 22B) or the valve stem 201.

[0068] The valve 100 may also have a passage 124 disposed though the body 101 between the first end 126 and the second end 130. The passage 124 may include an outlet portion 128 near or adjacent to the second end 130. The outlet portion 128 may have a smaller diameter than the passage 124 defining a first shoulder 120 where the passage 124 and outlet portion 128 meet. The13MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 passage 124 may also include an overmolded seal 132 therein, whereby the overmolded seal 132 is formed directly on the interior side walls of the passage 124. Use of an overmolded seal 132 may be desirable since, for example, a grove or other feature in the inner diameter of the passage 124 does not need to be form to retain another type of seal.

[0069] A plug 112 may be disposed through the passage 124 and portions of the plug 112 may extend out of the body 101 through the first end 126 and the second end 130. The plug 112 may have a head 115 having a generally T-shape defining a second shoulder 122. The length of the head 115 may be generally equal to the diameter of the passage 124 with spaces 134 on either side of the head 115 allowing for air to pass into the passage 124. The plug 112 may have a pin 116 extending out from the head 115. In an embodiment the head 115 is located below (e.g. axially adjacent or offset closer to the pressure vessel or tire) a semi-toroidal projection 133 portion of the overmolded seal 132. In an embodiment, the head 115 is opposite the first end 126 and the pin 116 extends though a through-hole or passageway in the overmolded seal 132 and is partially exposed out of the first end 126. The plug 112 may include a plug gasket 114 disposed around a portion or end of the plug 112 opposite the head 115 and the pin 116. The plug gasket 114 may be sized to, in combination with the plug 112, have a diameter greater than the diameter of the outlet portion 128.

[0070] The passage 124 may also house a biasing member, such as constant force spring 118 therein. In an embodiment, the spring 118 is a compression spring. Opposing ends of the spring 118 may rest on the shoulders 120, 122 and apply a biasing force on the plug 112 via the second should 122. The spring 118 may bias the valve 100 and plug 112 into a first position (also referred to as a closed or disengaged position). In an embodiment it may be desirable to use a spring 118 with similar load values to known valves when in the first position and the second position (also referred to as an open or engaged position). This may in turn provide a user a similar feel when engaging and disengaging the pump and provide greater backwards compatibility with preexisting systems.

[0071] In the exemplary non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIG. 18, shown is the valve 100 in the closed or first position. The spring 118 biases the plug 112 toward the first end 126 whereby the plug gasket 114 is wedged into the second end 130 and outlet portion 128 creating an air tight seal and the pin 116 extends through the projection 133 and partially out of the first14MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 end 126. The outlet portion 128 is sized to prevent the plug gasket 114 from passing through the outlet portion 128 even when then plug gasket 114 is compressed due to the force of the spring 118 and gas pressure forces. Further, the second end 130 is angled and sized to receive the plug gasket 114, thereby creating a tighter seal as the plug gasket 114 experiences higher compression forces. A force compresses the spring 118 and moves the plug 112 through the second end 130 whereby the end of the pin 116 is below the first end 126 and fully inside the passage 124. The plug gasket 114 is disengaged from the outlet portion 128 and the second end 130 thereby opening the valve 100 to allow air to pass through the first end 126, the spaces 134, the passage 124, the outlet portion 128 and the second end 130.

[0072] Referring now to FIG. 19, shown is an inflatable tube 200 with a valve 100 according to an embodiment. In tube type inflation structures the tube 200 may typically be positioned inside a wheel between the tire and rim and when pressurized will support the tire internally. The tube 200 may have a valve stem 201 integrated therewith such that the valve stem 201 and tube 200 are coupled creating an air tight seal. The outside diameter of the valve stem 201 may have threads 202 along the length of the valve stem 201 between the stem end 205 and the tube 200, the threads 202 being configured to receive a nut 204. The nut 204 may help bias the valve stem 201 to the tube 200 and may improve / strengthen the seal between the valve stem 201 and tube 200.

[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 20, in an exemplary embodiment, the valve stem 201 may be hollow having a stem passage 206. The stem passage 206 may include internal threading 208 near or adjacent to the stem end 205 and may include an inlet portion 210 adjacent to the internal threading 208. The inlet portion 210 of the valve stem 201 may have a smaller diameter than the stem passage 206.

[0074] In an embodiment the second end 130 of the valve 100 may be inserted into the stem end 205 and screwed into or coupled to the valve stem 201, whereby the external threading 108 of the valve 100 is configured to mate with the internal threading 208 of the valve stem 201. The valve gasket 110 is configured to be compressed in the inlet portion 210 of the valve stem 201 creating an air tight seal between the valve 100 and the valve stem 201. In an embodiment the inlet portion 210 may be tapered such that the diameter of the inlet portion 210 is smaller at the end proximal to the tube 200. In this way the valve gasket 110 is under a greater compression force15MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 proximal to the second end 130 which may provide a more reliable seal. The flat grip 106 and knurling 104 on the valve 100 may provide a user superior grip and ergonomic support to better grasp the valve 100 when connecting or disconnecting the valve 100 from the valve stem 201. When the valve 100 is fully inserted into the valve stem 201 the flat grip 106 and knurling 104 may be disposed on or adjacent to the stem end 205. The valve 100 and the valve stem 201 may form an air tight corridor between the first end 126, the passage 124, the second end 130, and the stem passage 206 to the interior of the tube 200 allowing the valve 100 to seal and unseal the tube 200 when in a respective first and second position.

[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 21A - 21B, shown is a valve 100 with an engaged and disengaged pump head 400 according to an embodiment. The pump head 400 may have ball bearings 402 which are disposed in openings 102 of the valve 100. A biasing member 403 is disposed about the bearings 402 to bias the bearings towards the centerline of the pump head 400. The pump head 400 may also have an inflation pin or a pump insert 412 which is connected to an air source.

[0076] As illustrated in FIG. 21B, in an exemplary embodiment, when the pump head 400 is disengaged from the valve 100, the valve 100 and the plug 112 are biased by the spring 118 into a closed or first position whereby the valve 100 creates an air tight seal.

[0077] As illustrated in FIG. 22B, in an exemplary embodiment, when the pump head 400 is engaged to the valve 100, the bearings 402 are biased into the groove 102 creating a strong gripping force which resists the bias force of the spring 118 and back pressure from a pressure source connected to the valve 100, for example a pressurized wheel. The pump insert 412 passes through the first end 126 of the valve 100 and receives the pin or projection 116 into an open end of the pump insert 412. The lip of the pump insert 412 engages and is disposed on the head 115, depressing the head 115 and plug 112 against the biasing force of the spring 118 and moving the valve 100 and plug 112 into an open or second position. As the plug 112 is moved into the second position, the plug gasket 114 disengages from the outlet portion 128 and the second end 130 while simultaneously the pump insert 412 engages overmolded seal 132 creating an air tight seal between the pump insert 412 and the over molded seal 132. In this way as the pump head 400 is engaged to the valve 100 and the valve 100 is opened, the pump head 400 creates a seal with the valve 100 thereby preventing undesired pressure loss, for example from a pressurized wheel connected to the16MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 valve 100. In some embodiments, the overmolded seal 132 is disposed along the length of the passage 124 and braces the pump insert 412.Referring now to FIGS. 23-27B, shown is a pneumatic valve 1600 with an overmolded seal 132 formed on an insert 1101 (described with reference to FIGS. 13A - 13D) part of a removable valve core according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the embodiment of FIGS. 23 - FIG. 27B, the core or valve body 101 is separable from the valve stem 201. The valve 1600 is constructed similar to valve 100 with the valve body being formed as a removable valve core coupled to the valve stem and similar to valve 1100 with the overmolded seal 132 being formed on a removable insert 1101 disposed in the passage 124. For conciseness, only the differences between the valve 1600 and the valves 100, 1100 will be described. In this embodiment, the valve body 101 is a removable valve core which may be coupled to the valve stem 201. The valve 1600 is constructed similar to the valve 1100, with the valve 1600 having a valve body 101 coupled to the valve stem 201. This configuration may be desirable the valve body 101 may be removed from the valve stem 201 and replaced if damaged or to substitute a different valve type. It should be appreciated that in embodiments using the insert 1101 , the spring 118 and plug 112 may be loaded or assembled through the proximal end 116 of the valve body 101.

[0078] It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein may refer to the various components as being made from a metal material or another material, this is for exemplary purposes and the disclosure should not be so limited. In other embodiment, the various components disclosed herein may be fabricated by injection molding or additive manufacturing with a plastic and / or composite material, or a combination thereof.

[0079] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof.

[0080] The terms “exemplary” and “alternate” are used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration.” Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” or17MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420“alternate” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs. The term “connection” can include an indirect “connection” and a direct “connection.” It should also be noted that the terms “first”, “second”, “third”, “upper”, “lower”, and the like may be used herein to modify various elements. These modifiers do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order to the modified elements unless specifically stated.

[0081] While the disclosure is provided in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the disclosure is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, while various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that the exemplary embodiment(s) may include only some of the described exemplary aspects. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description.18MEl\58533489.v2

Claims

138191-01420What is claimed is:

1. A pneumatic valve comprising: a unitary body having a passage therethrough and a radially-engageable annular groove about a circumference of a proximal end of the body, the groove being non-helical, non-threaded and having a semi-circular cross-section, the groove being configured to engage and axially restrain a pump head, the passage having a first portion of a constant diameter from a proximal end, and a second portion extending from the first portion to a distal end of the body; a seal disposed in the second portion of the passage; a plug disposed through the passage and selectively engageable with the seal, the plug being moveable between a first position and a second position; a spring disposed in the passage and operably coupled to the plug, the spring biasing the plug into a first position; an insert coupled to the unitary body within the passage, the insert defining a passageway and a spring seat, the spring being disposed between the spring seat and the plug; wherein when the plug is in the first position a head of the plug is biased against the seal to prevent fluid communication through the passage; and wherein when the plug is in the second position, the plug is disengaged from the seal to allow fluid communication therethrough.

2. The pneumatic valve of claim 1 wherein the spring is disposed within the passageway.

3. The pneumatic valve of claim 2, wherein the seal is disposed between an end portion of the insert and a lip formed in the passage.

4. The pneumatic valve of claim 3, wherein the seal is an O-ring.

5. The pneumatic valve of claim 1, wherein the passage includes a shoulder, the insert having a surface adjacent the spring seat that engages the shoulder.

6. The pneumatic valve of claim 5, wherein the plug includes a body with a conical portion extending from one side and a cylindrical portion extending from an opposite side of the body.19MEl\58533489.v2138191-014207. The pneumatic valve of claim 6, wherein the spring is disposed between an end of the cylindrical portion and the spring seat.

8. The pneumatic valve of claim 2, wherein the plug extends through the passageway.

9. The pneumatic valve of claim 8, further comprising a gasket coupled to the plug.

10. The pneumatic valve of claim 9, wherein the gasket is positioned to engage an end of the insert opposite the proximal end of the unitary body.

11. The pneumatic valve of claim 1 , wherein the plug includes a body portion having a plurality of channels formed on an outer diameter.

12. The pneumatic valve of claim 2, wherein the insert includes a plurality of channels within the passageway.

13. The pneumatic valve of claim 12, wherein the plug includes a body portion having a plurality of channels formed on an outer diameter.

14. A pneumatic valve comprising: a unitary body having a passage therethrough and a radially-engageable annular groove about a circumference of a proximal end of the body, the passage having a first portion of a constant diameter from a proximal end, and a second portion extending from the first portion to a distal end of the body; an insert coupled to the unitary body within the passage, the insert defining a passageway; an overmolded seal coupled to the insert; a plug disposed within the passage and selectively engageable with the overmolded seal, the plug being moveable between a first position and a second position; a spring disposed in the passage and operably coupled to the plug, the spring biasing the plug into a first position; wherein when the plug is in the first position a head of the plug is biased against the overmolded seal to prevent fluid communication through the passage; and20MEl\58533489.v2138191-01420 wherein when the plug is in the second position, the plug is disengaged from the overmolded seal to allow fluid communication therethrough.

15. The pneumatic valve of claim 14, wherein the insert disposed on or adjacent to the proximal end of the unitary body.21MEl\58533489.v2

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