Abstract: A variable force solenoid valve assembly is provided for use in an automatic transmission controller for controllably reducing a fluid inlet pressure to a desired outlet control pressure. The invention includes a solenoid sub-assembly secured to a valve body sub-assembly. The valve body includes a spool valve having three radially extending lands which translate within a valve body central bore in response to movement of an armature sub-assembly provided in the solenoid sub-assembly. Movement of the spool valve generates first and second flow restriction for controllably regulating the reducing of inlet pressure. In addition, the lands and the central bore comprise two differing diameters for improved outlet pressure regulation. Other various improvements in spool valve design are described including a design which enabled a reduction in the overall size of the solenoid sub-assembly.

Abstract: A combined bearing/diaphragm seal for use in a solenoid valve assembly or the like is disclosed which provides a flexible fluid seal between the solenoid sub-assembly and the valve sub-assembly. The solenoid and valve sub-assemblies communicate mechanically via a portion of a solenoid armature which translates through the combined bearing/diaphragm seal and controls elements of the valve sub-assembly for regulating outlet fluid pressure. The bearing portion of the combined bearing/diaphragm seal comprises a flat spring-plate that is adapted to resiliently deflect in response to movement of the solenoid armature. The diaphragm portion of the combined bearing/diaphragm seal is an elastomeric seal material applied to at least one side of the spring plate.

Abstract: A solenoid-operated control valve for a variable assist power steering system of an automobile vehicle includes a valve structure which defines a variable flow orifice in response to a predetermined variable (e.g., vehicle velocity) thereby providing fluid pressure needed to modify user input torque supplied to the steering wheel. The valve structure features a unique nonmagnetic core tube which reduces manufacture costs, enhances the ease of assembly of the magnetic housing elements needed to complete a magnetic circuit, and ensures the armature responds as needed to control orifice closure.

Abstract: A hydraulic control system comprising a hydraulic actuator having opposed openings adapted to alternately function as inlets and outlets for moving the element of the actuator in opposite directions and a pump system with load sensing control for supplying fluid to said actuator. A meter-in valve is provided to which the fluid from the pump is supplied and a manual or electrohydraulic controller alternately supplies fluid at pilot pressure to the meter-in valve for controlling the flow therefrom to the actuator to control direction and displacement of movement of the meter-in valve and the direction and velocity of the actuator. A pair of lines extends from the meter-in valve to the respective openings of the actuator. A meter-out valve is associated with each line to the actuator for controlling flow out of the actuator. Each meter-out valve is operated by the pilot pressure from the controller.