Electric Patents (Class 137/596.16)
  • Patent number: 7040716
    Abstract: A high reliability and low power consumption anti-lock brake system is disclosed in the present invention. The two pilot valves in the present invention are controlled so as not to be energized concurrently. The secondary battery of the anti-lock brake system is charged by power supply and/or generator. An electric double layer capacitor comprising a housing made of functionally graded aluminum—ceramic material is used as the secondary battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignees: Railway Technical Research Institute, Shinko Electric Co., LTD, Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd., NEC Tokin Corporation, NEC Tokin Ceramics Corporation
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Kawaguchi, Nobuo Seko, Tatsuo Itoh, Takashi Nagai, Yoshiaki Okita, Hiroyasu Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7025090
    Abstract: A fluid flow control valve system has a plurality of pairs of 3 port, 2 position (3/2) control valves (6, 6?) each valve being movable between its two positions by a pair of electrically-operable actuators (1, 2). A logic controller selectively generates electrical control signals for independently controlling operation of the pairs of 3/2 control valves, and a circuit means (11) is associated with each 3/2 control valve pair (6, 6?) to receive the control signals and provide electrical outputs to eit actuators (1, 2) of each 3/2 control valve of each pair. Variable switch means (14) forming part of the circuit means (11) pr the actuators (1, 2) to which the output is applied. Varying the switch means (14) programmes the fluid output mode of each 3/2 control valve pair to provide any one of a number of different effective valve types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: IMI Norgren Limited
    Inventors: Hugh Christopher Bramley, Christopher Simon Patient
  • Patent number: 7003949
    Abstract: An integrated three function valve (ITFV) that combines the functions of a bypass valve (e.g. 183a, 185a, 161a) into a single assembly is disclosed. The ITFV allows continued operation after any two failures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos A. Fenny, David P. Schultz, Ian L. Price, David A. Curd
  • Patent number: 6990999
    Abstract: Valve base module comprises a tank core passage extending within a plane containing a longitudinal axis, said plane oriented in non-perpendicular relation to a surface of said valve housing comprising at least a P, T, A, and B port and standard mounting holes for mounting said valve base module to at least one of a sub-plate or bar manifold. The plane is disposed at an offset angle ? relative to a second plane to permit one or more of at least P, T, A, and B ports to connect a first surface to an opposing second surface of the valve housing to form one or more of at least P?, T?, A?, and B? ports that permit the following additional modules to be mounted thereto: pilot control PCM, thermal insulating TIM, power supply PSM, pressure reducing PRM, diagnostic DM, load sense LSM, position feedback sensor PFSM, and manual override MOM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: KJP Investments LLC
    Inventor: Kishor J. Patel
  • Patent number: 6983623
    Abstract: A valve block assembly includes a cartridge block and a plurality of modular pilot valve operated poppet valve assemblies. The cartridge block has a plurality of bores therein dimensioned and configured for receiving respective modular pilot valve operated poppet valve assemblies. The cartridge block has a first side and each of the bores extend from the first side into the cartridge block. Each of the modular pilot valve operated poppet valve assemblies having a supply air port, an operating air out port and an exhaust passage and each of the modular pilot valve operated poppet valve assemblies are accessible for installation and removal from the cartridge block from the first side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: SG Alternatives, LLC
    Inventors: Gerald R. Morin, Richard Alan Walker
  • Patent number: 6976500
    Abstract: The invention relates to a valve combination which is characterized in that the valve combination has a passive valve and an active valve. The active valve is provided with means for an active influence of the control position of a closing element and regulates the fluid flow at a high pressure. The passive valve controls the fluid flow at low pressure. The passive valve and the active valve are integrated into the cooling system pump circuit such that the pressure difference between the high and low fluid pressure and the control positions of the active valve determine the control position of the passive valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Marion Lorenz-Börnert
  • Patent number: 6910493
    Abstract: Hydraulic fill and drain of a clutch chamber is controlled with a blocking valve and a trim valve. The blocking valve selectively provides pressurized fluid to the trim valve which in turn selectively provides the pressurized fluid to the clutch chamber. Exhausting of the clutch chamber is effected through one of two alternate paths utilizing deactivation of one of the trim and blocking valves. Back up exhausting of the clutch chamber is effected through the other of the alternative paths. Such system allows for determination of valve failures and continued operation until such failures can be rectified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Michael D. Foster, Todd M Steinmetz
  • Patent number: 6860292
    Abstract: A first normally open solenoid valve “A” is connected to passageway (32). A second normally open solenoid valve “B” is connected to a passageway (36). A latching valve (24) includes a valve spool chamber (26) and a valve spool (50) within the chamber. An air-delivery conduit (20) delivers pressurized air to both a first passageway (32) and a second passageway (36). Passageway (32) is connected to one end of the valve spool chamber (26). Passageway (36) is connected to the opposite end of the valve spool chamber (26). The valve spool (50) has two positions. In the first position, passageway (32) is connected with a passageway (40) that extends to an air-operated device (44). Flow through the valve (24) to and from passageway (36) is blocked. In the second position, flow from passageway (32) to passageway (40) is blocked. Also, flow through the valve (24) to and from passageway (36) is blocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: GT Development
    Inventors: Gabe Fasolino, Alan K. Forsythe, John M. Morris
  • Patent number: 6845962
    Abstract: A microvalve device for controlling fluid flow in a fluid circuit. The microvalve device comprises a body having a cavity formed therein. The body further has first and second pilot ports placed in fluid communication with the cavity. The body also has first and second primary ports placed in fluid communication with the cavity. Each port is adapted for connection with a designated fluid source. A pilot valve supported by the body is movably disposed in the cavity for opening and closing the first and second pilot ports. An actuator is operably coupled to the pilot valve for moving the pilot valve. A microvalve is positioned by the fluid controlled by the pilot valve. The microvalve is a slider valve having a first end and a second end. The slider valve is movably disposed in the cavity for movement between a first position and a second position. The first end of the slider valve is in fluid communication with the first and second pilot ports when the first and second pilot ports are open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Kelsey-Hayes Company
    Inventors: Richard J. Barron, Kirt R. Williams, E. Nelson Fuller, Harry A. Hunnicutt
  • Patent number: 6840258
    Abstract: A double valve is reset when a source of pressurized fluid is connected to a reset port. When the source of pressurized fluid is removed from the reset port, a first reset piston is retracted so that a second pilot chamber receives pressurized fluid while a first pilot chamber continues to be vented. A second reset piston is retracted after a predetermined delay time following retraction of the first reset piston, the predetermined delay time being sufficient to allow the second pilot chamber to become substantially pressurized. If a second pilot valve is actuated when the second reset piston is retracted, then the pressurized fluid in the second pilot chamber drives the second movable valve unit out of a deactuated position during a time that pressurized fluid in the first pilot chamber is insufficient to drive the first movable valve unit out of a deactuated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: Neil E. Russell, Joseph E. Foster
  • Patent number: 6840259
    Abstract: A double valve for controlling a machine tool has a memory such that when the valve is in its normal deactuated state and the inlet air supply is cycled (e.g., turned from on to off or from off to on), then the valve remains in the deactuated (i.e., ready to run) state. When the valve is in a faulted state (e.g., intermediate position) and the inlet air supply is cycled, then the valve remains in the faulted state. The memory is achieved by a balanced condition of the movable valve elements when in the normal deactuated position and an unbalanced or latched condition when in the intermediate or faulted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: Neil E. Russell, Joseph E. Foster
  • Patent number: 6837269
    Abstract: An electrohydraulic control device for use in the hydraulic systems of advancing support frames of underground mining equipment, which can be switched by means of switching plungers of electromagnets (24), and the directional control valves (3, 4) are put together from pilot control valve (14) and main control valves (3) arranged on a common axis, where by the pilot control valve (4) switches the main control valve (3) by means of a separate pressure medium supply to be found on an additional control pressure line, in which accepting borings (2) are suited for the acceptance of main control and pilot control valves (3, 4) constructed as cartridges which are plugged together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: DBT GmbH
    Inventors: Werner Reinelt, Franz-Heinrich Suilmann
  • Patent number: 6830229
    Abstract: A two-stage valve for controlling the flow of fluid from a pressurized fluid supply with an upper main body including a cavity with a contoured inner surface; a lower main body with at least one flow exhaust passage forming a primary flow path through the two-stage valve; a pre-stressed diaphragm sandwiched between the upper and lower main bodies, and pressure control capability for controlling the pressure in the cavity. A first valve opens and closes the flow of gas from the pressurized gas supply to the cavity. A second valve allows the pressure in the cavity to exhaust to the environment. Raising and lowering of the pressure in the cavity causes the pre-stressed diaphragm to open and close the flow of gas from the pressurized gas supply through the primary flow path of the two-stage valve. The design is suitable as a microvalve using Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) concepts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Todd Garrett Wetzel, Mathew Christian Nielsen, Stanton Earl Weaver, Jr., Renato Guida, James Wilson Rose, Laura Jean Meyer
  • Publication number: 20040231731
    Abstract: Electropneumatic double regulating valve for an air-operated vehicle brake system, which is disposed centrally on a wheel axle, equipped with two brakes, with a common relay valve housing (1), in which is integrated for each brake an assigned regulating valve unit, which comprises for valve actuation a control piston, which can be axially adjusted and is disposed inside an assigned control chamber (3a, 3b) and which is driven with a control pressure by way of an electromagnetic pilot valve assembly, housed in an adjacent pilot valve housing, for independent axial adjustment, whereby the pilot valve housing is connected detachably to the relay valve housing (1) by way of a sealing arrangement that lies in-between, whereby the sealing arrangement is designed as one-piece and comprises two sealing ring segments (5a, 5b), which are in essence ring-shaped and are assigned to one control chamber (3a, 3b) each and which are connected together by means of several footbridges (6a to 6c), which are molded on in-between
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Friedbert Roether, Siegmund Deja, Eberhard Schaffert
  • Patent number: 6789563
    Abstract: A pneumatic exhaust controller for use with a source of pressurized air comprises a manifold having a first portal coupled to the source of pressurized air, a second portal, and an exhaust portal. Two manifold embodiments are disclosed. Two regulator embodiments that operate to close the exhaust portal in response to pressurized air from the air source being communicated through the first portal and that operate to pass pressurized air from the pressurized air source to the second portal are disclosed. The regulators are situated in chambers of respective manifolds. A solenoid valve is coupled to each of the manifolds and is operable to block and unblock pneumatic communication between the respective first portal and the associated second and exhaust portals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Maxon Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory T. Filkovski, Brook W. Pence, Wayne D. Morroney
  • Publication number: 20040168729
    Abstract: The supply of operating air or oil to a press, shears or like machine is controlled by a pair of spool valves connected in series and each operates a pair of switches. The switches connect DC current to the solenoids via external relays which open and close the valves. The external relays are standard components on the switchboard of the machine subject to control. Sharing the control between two valves allows malfunction in either valve to indicate the system needs correction while at the same time preventing supply to the machine. The switches are coupled to the DC switchboard of the machine by cables and thus can be retrofitted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Murray Andrew Hodges
  • Patent number: 6758241
    Abstract: A safety valve for compressed air-operated consumers, including a valve housing having bores, and two direction control valves connected in parallel, each of the control valves having a working piston and a valve head connected to the piston. Two pilot control valves are operatively connected to the directional control valves so that each of the direction control valves is switchable by one of the pilot control valves. Each of the two valve heads is guided in a respective one of the bores in the valve housing. The housing has two cross-channels arranged to connect crosswise to each other. A first one of the pilot valves has a valve seat connected via a first pilot channel in the housing to one of the cross-channels which proceeds from the bore of one of the valve heads. A second of the pilot valves has a valve seat connected via a second pilot channel to another of the cross-channels which proceeds from the bore of another of the valve heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: IMI Norgren-Herion Fluidtronic GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stefan Pfund, Günter Baldauf
  • Publication number: 20040112440
    Abstract: A fluid flow control valve system has a plurality of pairs of 3 port, 2 position (3/2) control valves (6, 6′) each valve being movable between its two positions by a pair of electrically-operable actuators (1, 2). A logic controller selectively generates electrical control signals for independently controlling operation of the pairs of 3/2 control valves, and a circuit means (11) is associated with each 3/2 control valve pair (6, 6′) to receive the control signals and provide electrical outputs to either of the actuators (1, 2) of each 3/2 control valve of each pair. Variable switch means (14) forming part of the circuit means (11) pre-select the actuators (1, 2) to which the output is applied. Varying the switch means (14) programmes the fluid output mode of each 3/2 control valve pair to provide any one of a number of different effective valve types.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Hugh Christopher Bramley, Christopher Simon Patient
  • Patent number: 6745793
    Abstract: A valve arrangement, which possesses a plurality of valve units mounted on each other in sequence in an array direction (3) on each other. For this purpose each valve unit (2) possesses, on opposite sides, a first mounting face (5) and a second mounting face (6). In the interior of each valve unit (2) there extends, in a direction athwart the array direction (3), at least one internal flow duct (32a and 32b). On its longitudinal side, facing the first mounting face (5), same is delimited by a lateral duct wall (36a and 36b) of the respective valve unit (2). On the opposite longitudinal side it is at least partially open, the open length section (37a and 37b) being covered by the mounted neighboring valve unit. Accordingly compact width dimensions are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventor: Manfred Rüdle
  • Patent number: 6722390
    Abstract: A control valve system in which main valves are actuated and deactuated by operation of pilot valves. Actuation of pilot valves causes actuation of the main valves, which enables fluid pressure to be output from the control valve system. The main valves must shift within a predetermined time period in order to prevent an error condition. A timing chamber stores a predetermined amount of fluid to define a time period in which the main valves must shift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: Richard E. Schnell, Hubert Schaber
  • Patent number: 6712091
    Abstract: A control device for a hydraulic control motor includes at least one valve controlled actively by an actuating force and at least one passive valve which is operatively connected to the actively controlled valve and which is co-controlled via a line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: ZF Lenksysteme GmbH
    Inventor: Jörg Linser
  • Patent number: 6688332
    Abstract: A multiway valve for controlling a flow of fluid under pressure, includes a valve housing having fluid ports and a plurality of bores in side-by-side parallel disposition substantially at a same level. Each bore is configured for accommodation of a valve spools which are sealed in the bores against the valve housing. The spools have opposite first and second end faces, and include portions of greater diameter and portions of smaller diameter. Acting on the first end face of the spools is an actuation unit for moving the spools in a longitudinal direction to thereby direct a flow of fluid under pressure between the ports, whereas a mechanical coupling mechanism, which is secured to the valve housing, interacts with the second end faces of the spools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Rexroth Mecman GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Liesenhoff
  • Patent number: 6662825
    Abstract: A control device for pressurized fluids includes a valve mechanism actuated by a first device incorporating electromagnets in a first housing, and a second device incorporating a circuit board for controlling the valve mechanism in a second housing. Pins on the first device and sockets on the second device automatically form an electrical plug-type connection when the housings are joined. Each socket is received in a first portion of a through-hole provided in a mount supported on the circuit board such that it extends into a corresponding through-hole in the circuit board. A second portion of each through-hole in each mount has a funnel-shaped guide opening toward the pins. A pressure sensor supported by the circuit board forms a plug-type engagement with a port extending from the valve mechanism when the housings are joined. Contacts extend from the sensor into holes in the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Wabco GmbH & Co. OHG
    Inventors: Dieter Frank, Oliver Gründker, Peter Homann, Andreas Kranz, Rainer Risse, Gerdt Schreiber
  • Patent number: 6659129
    Abstract: A valve arrangement includes an operating valve arrangement in the form of a relay valve and a control valve arrangement. The control valve arrangement includes a controlled inlet valve and a controlled outlet valve. Solenoid valves are provided for selectively routing pressure medium. A first control piston and a second control piston, which can be subjected to pressure by a pressure medium via operation of the solenoid valves, control actuation of the inlet valve and the outlet valve of the control valve arrangement. The control valve arrangement is installed directly on the housing of the operating valve arrangement to achieve a compact structural unit and to reduce the amount of pressure medium channels and pressure medium connections required. The operating valve arrangement and the control valve arrangement are designed such that parts of the control valve arrangement are located in, or constituted by, the operating valve arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Wabco GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Kiel, Georg Korpak, Wilfried Menze
  • Patent number: 6647965
    Abstract: A pump assembly and method for an internal combustion engine includes a high-pressure pump for pressurizing oil used to actuate fuel injectors or other devices, a hydraulic inlet throttle valve, a three-way valve for alternatively connecting the inlet throttle valve to output pressure or to the sump and a solenoid responsive to signals from an electronic control module for shifting the three-way valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Robert H. Breeden
  • Patent number: 6637462
    Abstract: A control valve system having a housing defining an inlet, an outlet, and an exhaust. A first passage extends between the inlet and the outlet and a second passage extends between the outlet and the exhaust. The control valve system includes a first valve disposed within the first passage. The first valve is movable between a closed position and an opened position. Similarly, the control valve system includes a second valve disposed within the second passage. The second valve is movable between a closed position and an opened position. Furthermore, the control valve system includes a regulator circuit operably coupled to the housing, which outputs a pilot pressure in response to an inlet pressure. An actuating member is slidably disposed within the housing and moveable in response to a pressure differential between the outlet and the pilot pressure. The actuating member independently actuates the first valve and the second valve to provide a quick pressure and exhaust feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: Joseph E. Foster, Jr., Neil E. Russell
  • Patent number: 6619183
    Abstract: A control valve in fluid communication with an actuator may include a pressurized pilot supply and a fluid reservoir fluidly connected to a passageway defined by a valve body. A pilot operator is selectively moveable within the passageway, and a flow metering operator is moveably disposed within the passageway. A fluid make-up operator, disposed in the passageway and in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir and the actuator, directs pressurized pilot supply fluid in response to a decrease in actuator pressure coinciding with a cavitation condition within the actuator. A control chamber within the valve body contains pressurized fluid from the pilot supply and is in fluid communication with the flow metering operator. The flow metering operator fluidly connects the actuator with the fluid reservoir under the influence of the pressurized fluid within the control chamber through activation by either the pilot operator or the fluid make-up operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignees: Caterpillar Inc, Shin Cat Mitsubishi Ltd
    Inventor: Kazunori Yoshino
  • Publication number: 20030155016
    Abstract: A control valve system having a housing defining a first inlet, a second inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet, and an exhaust to define an intrinsically safe double valve. The double control valve system of the present invention further includes a pair of cross exhaust passages that eliminates the need for complicated timing devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Jose Carlos Bento
  • Patent number: 6604547
    Abstract: A control Valve system having a housing defining a first inlet, a second inlet, a first outlet, a second outlet, and an exhaust to define an intrinsically safe double valve. The double control valve system of the present invention further includes a pair of cross exhaust passages that eliminates the need for complicated timing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventor: Jose Carlos Bento
  • Patent number: 6557820
    Abstract: A two-stage valve for controlling the flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply with an upper main body including a cavity; a lower main body with at least one flow exhaust passage forming a primary flow path through the two-stage valve; a pre-stressed diaphragm sandwiched between the upper and lower main bodies, and pressure control capability for controlling the pressure in the cavity. A secondary flow path exists from the pressurized gas supply through the lower main body, through the upper main body, and terminating in the cavity in the upper main body. A first valve is installed in the secondary flow path to open and close the flow of gas from the pressurized gas supply to the cavity. A second valve installed in an exhaust passage in the upper main body allows the pressure in the cavity to exhaust to the environment. When the second valve is closed, the pressure in the cavity in the upper main body can be increased to lower the pre-stressed diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Todd Garrett Wetzel, Matthew Christian Nielsen, Stanton Earl Weaver, Jr., Renato Guida, James Wilson Rose, Laura Jean Meyer
  • Patent number: 6550368
    Abstract: A fluid power interlock system and method for providing same including a circuit having a first valve shiftable between a first and second state having an input and a pair of selectively operable first outputs. One of the first outputs is operatively connectable to a first actuator and the other of the first outputs is operatively connected to a second valve shiftable between a first and second state. The second valve has a pair of selectively operable outputs, one of the second valve outputs is operatively connectable to a second actuator, and the other of the second valve outputs is operatively connected to the first valve and provides a pilot signal thereto for permitting the first valve to shift from a first state to a second state. Shifting state of either of the first and second valves interrupts the pilot signal thereby preventing the non actuated valve from being actuated and shifting state. The system may also include a manifold, wherein the first and second valves are secured to the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Festo Corporation
    Inventors: Gerard Leeman, Frank J. Langro
  • Patent number: 6505645
    Abstract: A valve assembly has a single piece body that houses a plurality of hydraulic valves. Each valve includes a spool which controls the flow of fluid between a pair of work ports in one side of the body and a pump inlet and a tank outlet. The valves are operated by selectively applying pressurized fluid to one end or the other of the spool. That pressure is provided by a conduit or a pilot valve that is attached to a control port in the one side of the body. Because the majority of the connections to the valve assembly are made to the one side of the body access is only required to that side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: HUSCO International, Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas S. Pack, Eric N. Griesbach, James E. Olsen
  • Publication number: 20030005963
    Abstract: A control valve system in which main valves are actuated and deactuated by operation of pilot valves. Actuation of pilot valves causes actuation of the main valves, which enables fluid pressure to be output from the control valve system. The main valves must shift within a predetermined time period in order to prevent an error condition. A timing chamber stores a predetermined amount of fluid to define a time period in which the main valves must shift.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Richard E. Schnell, Hubert Schaber
  • Patent number: 6478049
    Abstract: A control valve system having housing defining an inlet, an outlet and an exhaust. A first passage extends between the inlet and the outlet and a second passage extends between the outlet and the exhaust. A first plurality of valves are disposed within the first passage, each being selectively actuated to close, open, or partially open the first passage. A second plurality of valves are disposed within the second passage, each being selectively actuated to close, open, or partially open the second passage. A plurality of reset members are selectively engageable with the first plurality of valves and are operable to actuate the first plurality of valves when a pressure is applied to the plurality of reset members. The plurality of reset members each have an anti-tiedown stem extending therefrom to prevent operation of the control valve system if any of the plurality of reset members is tied down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: Jose Carlos Bento, C. Brian Wolfe, Neil E. Russell
  • Patent number: 6467496
    Abstract: An electrohydraulic valve pilot stage for controlling differential pressure is disclosed. The electrohydraulic valve pilot stage has a housing for protecting the valve; a first and second inlet capable of connection to fluid supplies; a first nozzle and a second nozzle fluidly connected to the inlets; a baseplate attached to the housing and the nozzles; a restraining member attached to the baseplate at a position between the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a pivot pin; a flapper restrained by the restraining member and having a first end and a second end, the flapper pivotably mounted on the pivot pin; and a null adjust pin mounted in a pivot pin contact capable position for adjusting the position of the ends of the flapper relative to the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Oestreich, Wayne R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6457487
    Abstract: An assembly of a pair of electrically operated bidirectional proportional control valves and a four-way direction control valve governs the flow of fluid to and from a hydraulic cylinder. The four-way direction control valve alternately connects a pump supply line to one of a pair of intermediate conduits and a tank return line to the other intermediate conduit. That connection determines the direction of movement of the cylinder piston. The intermediate conduits are coupled to chambers of the cylinder by a separate one of the proportional control valves which meters the fluid flow to or from the respective chamber. Thus the proportional control valves control the rate of piston movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Husco International, Inc.
    Inventors: Dwight B. Stephenson, Joseph Lawrence Pfaff
  • Publication number: 20020129856
    Abstract: In an electrohydraulic control device especially for use in the hydraulic systems of advancing support frames of underground mining equipment a valve or valve block 1 is provided with accepting borings 2 and connection borings 27, 28 for load connections (6, 7), which lie on one axis M and merge directly into each other. The accepting space formed by the accepting borings 2 is constructed similarly for all the directional control valves, put together from a pilot control valve 4 and a main control valve 3. In the valve block 1 additionally to the high pressure line P and the return flow line T there runs a control pressure line PST, with which the pressure medium supply for switching the main control valve 3 is effected. The construction according to the invention of the valve block reduces manufacturing costs and offers substantial advantages in the assembly of the directional control valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventors: Werner Reinelt, Franz-Heinrich Suilmann
  • Publication number: 20020112765
    Abstract: A control device for pressurized fluids includes a valve mechanism that is actuated by a first electric device incorporating a pair of electromagnets disposed in a first housing component, and a second electric device incorporating a printed circuit board for controlling the valve mechanism disposed in a second housing component. For electrical connection of the two electric devices, male connector pins are provided on the first electric device and female connector sockets are provided on the second electric device. The male and female components automatically form a plug-type connection when the two housing components are joined together. Each female connector socket is received in a first portion of a through-hole provided in a mount supported on the circuit board such that it extends into, and preferably beyond, a corresponding through-hole in the circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Dieter Frank, Oliver Grundker, Peter Homann, Andreas Kranz, Rainer Risse, Gerdt Schreiber
  • Patent number: 6431209
    Abstract: A high-pressure primary fluid control valve and a multi-pressure selector fluid control valve are disclosed for operating a fluid-actuated device. Preferably a spherical ball-poppet and frusto-conical valve seat adapted for substantially line-contact therebetween are provided with an upstream flow area adjacent the line-contact in order to substantially minimize sonic flow damage to the actual sealing surface of the valve seat by shifting it away from such line-contact seating. Preferably, the ball-poppet is movable within a poppet guide that is allowed to float radially in order to allow the ball-poppet to be substantially self-centering with respect to the valve seat. In addition, cross-over leakage is preferably negated by closing an exhaust ball-poppet just prior to opening a supply ball-poppet. These principles and features are equally applicable to either or both of the primary or the multi-pressure selector fluid control valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventor: Charles A. Weiler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6431207
    Abstract: A high-pressure fluid control valve is disclosed for operating a fluid-actuated device. Preferably a ball-poppet and frusto-conical valve seat adapted for substantially line-type contact therebetween are provided with an upstream restricted flow area in order to substantially minimize sonic flow damage to the actual sealing surface of the valve seat. Preferably, the ball-poppet is movable within a poppet guide that is allowed to float radially in order to allow the ball-poppet to be substantially self-centering with respect to the valve seat. In addition, cross-over leakage is preferably negated by closing an exhaust ball-poppet just prior to opening a supply ball-poppet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventor: Charles A. Weiler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6415818
    Abstract: A diaphragm-type solenoid valve has a valve body 3 fixed onto a base, a diaphragm 4 for opening and closing a valve seat 13 provided to an inner end of a second port 12, a plate 5 for forming a driving chamber 14 between the plate 5 and the diaphragm sandwiched between the plate 5 and the valve body 3, and a pilot valve 6 for supplying pilot fluid pressure to the driving chamber 14. In the diaphragm, a disc 20 is encapsulated in a portion facing the port 12, a sealing rib 21 corresponding to the valve seat is provided, and cushion projecting portions 22 and 23 for coming in contact with cushion receiving portions 32 and 33 of the plate 5 in valve opening are formed behind the portion where the disc is encapsulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: SMC Corporation
    Inventors: Robert William Dickman, Shinichi Yoshimura
  • Publication number: 20020066481
    Abstract: An electrohydraulic valve pilot stage for controlling differential pressure is disclosed. The electrohydraulic valve pilot stage has a housing for protecting the valve; a first and second inlet capable of connection to fluid supplies; a first nozzle and a second nozzle fluidly connected to the inlets; a baseplate attached to the housing and the nozzles; a restraining member attached to the baseplate at a position between the first nozzle and the second nozzle; a pivot pin; a flapper restrained by the restraining member and having a first end and a second end, the flapper pivotably mounted on the pivot pin; and a null adjust pin mounted in a pivot pin contact capable position for adjusting the position of the ends of the flapper relative to the nozzles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Oestreich, Wayne R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6363970
    Abstract: A valve means having at least one valve whose housing is longitudinally divided and comprises housing bodies arranged together alongside one another in a parting region. Cavities in the parting region are defined by mutually complementary recesses in the housing bodies placed against each other. The cavities in part form valve ducts and in part are fitted with functional elements. The funcional elements include at least one valve member and at least two electrically operable valve drives serving for the actuation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Festo AG & Co.
    Inventor: Eberhard Wolter
  • Publication number: 20020007855
    Abstract: A control valve system having a housing defining an inlet, an outlet and an exhaust. A first passage extends between the inlet and the outlet and a second passage extends between the outlet and the exhaust. A first plurality of valves are disposed within the first passage, wherein each of the first plurality of valves are movable between a deactuated position where the first passage is closed, an actuated position where the first passage is open, and an intermediate position where the first passage is partially open. A second plurality of valves are disposed within the second passage, wherein each of the second plurality of valves are movable between a deactuated position where the second passage is open, an actuated position where the second passage is closed, and an intermediate position where the second passage is partially open. A plurality of reset members are selectively engageable with the first plurality of valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: Jose Carlos Bento, C. Brian Wolfe, Neil E. Russell
  • Patent number: 6318396
    Abstract: A control valve system has two valve trains each of which has a series of valves which dynamically move between a deactuated position and an actuated position. An inlet of the valve system is connected to an outlet of the valve system when all of the valves are actuated and the outlet of the valve system is connected to an exhaust when all of the valves are deactuated. Each valve train includes a solenoid valve which when actuated moves the remaining valve members to their actuated position. The various valves of each valve train are interconnected with the valve of the other valve train such that actuation of all of the valves in a substantially simultaneous manner will connect the inlet of the valve system to the outlet of the valve system and deactuation of all of the valves in a substantially simultaneous manner will connect the outlet to the exhaust.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Company
    Inventors: David W. Haselden, Jr., Neil E. Russell, Logan H. Mathis, C. Brian Wolfe
  • Patent number: 6310283
    Abstract: A pressure relief system comprises a control system which includes a housing with a housing chamber in which electrical equipment is located, and a valve system having a pressure relief device. The housing chamber is connected via a connecting device (e.g., a pipe conduit) to the pressure relief device, thereby protecting the electrical equipment contained in the housing chamber from occurrence of overpressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: WABCO Standard GmbH
    Inventor: Wolfgang Lichtenberg
  • Patent number: 6286547
    Abstract: A module comprises a pilot valve and four switching valves, in particular for driving actuators, the pilot valve being a 4/3-way valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Burkert Werke GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Heinrich Dettmann
  • Patent number: 6223773
    Abstract: In a check valve assembly and a valve assembly employing such a check valve assembly, a topping piston may be taken into contact with a main poppet to raise the main poppet from its seat. The main poppet is designed without significant area difference from the valve seat and the topping piston is actuated through a pilot valve, so that the process of raising the main poppet from the valve seat is controllable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Mannesmann Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Burkhard Knoell, Winfried Rueb
  • Patent number: 6196247
    Abstract: A valve assembly for actuation of a user and a method for actuation of the valve assembly, wherein a supply throttle device and a drain throttle device may be actuated independent of each other, is disclosed. In the case of single-action users, the drain throttle device is actuated such that the open cross-section of the drain throttle is maximum upon attaining the desired volumetric flow of hydraulic oil, so that the energy losses in the drain conduit are reduced to minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Mannesmann Rexroth AG
    Inventors: Burkhard Knoell, Winfried Rueb
  • Patent number: 6186172
    Abstract: A directional control valve system is provided in conjunction with a hydraulic actuator, using a meter-in flow control valve that is simple in structure to permit pressure fluid to be fed into a first and a second chamber of the hydraulic actuator. The directional control valve system includes a meter-in flow control valve 1 for establishing and blocking fluid communication of a pump port with an outlet port 12, a first and a second load checking valve 2 and 3 that is in fluid communication with the outlet port 12, and a meter-out flow control valve 4 for establishing fluid communication of one of a first and a second actuator port 72 and 74 at an output side of the first and second load checking valves 2 and 3 with a tank port 71, and has an arrangement that permits the first and second load checking valves 2 and 3 to be held in a closed state with pressure fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Nobumi Yoshida