Electric Patents (Class 137/625.64)
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Patent number: 6926033Abstract: This invention generally concerns electronically controlled hydraulic valves for use in electro-hydraulically controlled transmissions. The proportional pressure control valve 20 includes a hollow cage 42 pierced by cage tank ports 52, cage clutch ports 54, and cage pump ports 56. The cage pump ports 56 receive fluid from a pump. The cage clutch ports 54 supply fluid to a hydraulic actuator. The cage tank ports 52 return fluid from the valve 20 to a tank from where fluid circulates back to the pump. Main spool 112 controls fluid flow between cage clutch ports 54 and cage pump ports 56 or cage tank ports 52. An electro-magnetically operated pilot valve regulates fluid pressure applied to a control pressure surface 138. A feedback pressure passage 126, having feedback restriction orifice 128, restrains the rate fluid flows between the cage clutch ports 54 and the feedback pressure surface 114.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corp.Inventors: Louis C. Harms, Zilek Liberfarb
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Patent number: 6923207Abstract: In a manifold valve, a part housing chamber and a fist recessed portion are provided to a casing of a selector valve, position sensors for detecting an operating position of a spool are housed in the part housing chamber, a first relay connector connected to both the position sensors and pilot valves is housed in the first recessed portion, a second recessed portion corresponding to the first recessed portion and a substrate housing chamber are provided to a manifold base, a second relay connector to be electrically connected to the first relay connector by mounting the selector valve onto a placing face is housed in the second recessed portion, and a main wiring substrate electrically connected to the second relay connector is housed in the substrate housing chamber.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: SMC CorporationInventor: Keiji Misumi
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Patent number: 6913037Abstract: In the manifold valve of the invention, a sensor chamber is formed in an upper face of a casing of a solenoid valve, pressure sensors are disposed in the sensor chamber, a wiring block including a wiring path in itself is connected to a portion of the casing, and signal conductors extending from the pressure sensors are introduced into a wiring path in the wiring block and are connected to a main wiring substrate through an intermediate block.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Makoto Ishikawa
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Patent number: 6904937Abstract: A switchable fluid control valve assembly having a regulating spool and a pilot spool disposed within a common bore. A regulating spring urges the regulating spool toward a rest position wherein an oil supply port is fully uncovered. Supply oil entering the assembly causes the regulating spool to assume a position wherein oil flow is throttled to a downstream pressure insufficient to activate an associated valve deactivation mechanism but sufficient to provide lubrication to the engine. When activation of the mechanism is desired, a solenoid moves the pilot spool wherein oil at full pressure is engaged against the regulating spool, de-throttling the flow of oil to the mechanism. When the solenoid is again deactivated, a dump port is opened into the oil flow path, immediately reducing the pressure on the regulating spool which then moves to eclipse the supply port and open a path from the mechanism to drain.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: June 14, 2005Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Thomas H. Fischer
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Patent number: 6840273Abstract: In a manifold valve, a magnet is mounted to a spool of a solenoid valve, magnetometric sensors and connecting pins to be brought into continuity with the respective magnetometric sensors are provided in a first recessed portion formed in a casing, a sensor connector in a second recessed portion and a main wiring substrate connected to the sensor connector in a substrate housing chamber are provided to a manifold base, and the connecting pins are connected to the sensor connector to thereby electrically connect the magnetometric sensors to the main wiring substrate when the solenoid valve is mounted onto the manifold base.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Makoto Ishikawa
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Patent number: 6834661Abstract: A control valve system includes a housing having an inlet port, a first output port, a second output port, and a valve chamber. A primary spool and a secondary spool are independently slidable in the valve chamber. The secondary spool has a first end for abutting against the primary spool and has a second end with a working surface area greater than the working surface areas at the ends of the primary spool. A solenoid valve assembly controllably connects the inlet port to the second end of the secondary spool. A biaser provides a biasing force to the primary spool. A first fluid passage through the primary spool provides fluid communication between the first output port and a second end of the primary spool for displacing the primary spool relative to the secondary spool in an energy saving mode, thereby regulating a pressure at the first output relative to the predetermined magnitude of the biasing force.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Ross Operating Valve CompanyInventor: José Carlos Bento
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Patent number: 6830066Abstract: A monitored fluid control valve is provided having a valve body with an elongated bore. A movable valve element is slidably received in the bore. A switch assembly has an aperture aligned with the bore. The switch assembly includes an electrical switch having a switch arm operatively connected to switch contacts for driving the switch contacts between an open state and a closed state. The switch arm is linked to the movable valve element so that the switch arm is directly driven to match linear reciprocation of the movable valve element.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Ross Operating Valve Co.Inventors: Jeremy S. Madden, Ted R. Price
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Patent number: 6814103Abstract: A solenoid valve has a housing having work, pressure, and tank connectors. An armature is movably arranged in the housing and cooperates with a coil. A slide is moveably arranged in the housing and has a hydraulic chamber connected to the work connector and connectable to the pressure connector. A plunger is positioned between the armature and the slide. The armature acts on the plunger which acts on the slide for moving the slide against a counter force. The plunger has a cross-section and the slide has a piston surface cooperating with the plunger, wherein the cross-section is smaller than the piston surface. In another embodiment, the slide has a first end, loaded by a supply pressure of the pressure connector, and a second end, loaded by a return pressure, so that the slide is hydraulically tensioned by the supply pressure and the return pressure.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 9, 2004Assignee: Hydraulik-Ring GmbHInventors: Rolf Neuhaus, Bernd Urlaub, Friedrich Zapf
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Patent number: 6796330Abstract: A pressure control apparatus is disposed in a pressure control system for a transmission to set pressure control at a torque-transmitting mechanism. The pressure control apparatus includes a torque-transmitting mechanism control valve, which distributes pressure from a high pressure source to the torque-transmitting mechanism. Also within the pressure control apparatus is a boost valve mechanism, which is effective to control feedback pressure on the torque transmitting mechanism pressure regulator valve thereby controlling the pressure rise at the torque-transmitting mechanism and also permitting a boost pressure to be distributed to the torque-transmitting mechanism when full engagement thereof is required.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Steven P. Moorman
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Patent number: 6796329Abstract: A compact fluid pressure control solenoid valve including a gate valve has outer and inner sleeves. The outer sleeve has ports connected thereto for the admission of pressurized fluid and the delivery of pressurized fluid from the pressure control valve to the work or back to a sump. The inner sleeve has formed therein at least a pair of fluid grooves, and the outer sleeve acting in conjunction with the grooves to form passages for hydraulic fluid flow to and from the gate valve and from main valve chamber. The inner sleeve has a main valving chamber with the gate valve being formed at one end of the main valving chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Trans-A-MaticInventor: Roger M. Swenson, Jr.
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Patent number: 6792971Abstract: The invention relates to a piloted valve, in particular an electropneumatic control valve for a pneumatic brake system of a vehicle. Said valve comprises a divided valve housing, in which at least one control piston that can be axially displaced for actuating a valve seat arrangement, which switches the compressed air flow between external connections, is located. The control piston can be impinged by at least one electromagnetic pilot valve to cause the axial displacement, said valve being lodged in a pilot valve housing part that is connected to the relay valve housing part, whereby a pressure compensation channel with multiple bends is configured in the vicinity of the wall of the control chamber in the valve housing for bleeding a pressureless hollow chamber in the interior of the valve. The outlet opening of said channel that leads to the exterior is located at a distance behind a cover hood on the valve housing and is protected against water splashes.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbHInventors: Friedbert Roether, Siegmund Deja, Eberhard Schaffert
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Patent number: 6786236Abstract: A two, three or four-way valve includes two stages each with working valve components linked by a feedback spring so that a first stage servo unit is auto-nulling and the stroke of the valve member in a second stage valve unit is proportional to the input current to the first stage. An inherently balanced clevis member in the first stage controls flow of pressurized control media, which in combination with direct pressure flow, controls the position of a spool member in the second stage. The spool in turn controls pressure flow to a either one or two metering or input/output flow ports. Transient movement of the clevis due to change in input current to a magnetic servo drive assembly is opposed by bending of the feedback spring arising from the associated movement of the spool, which returns the clevis to its centered null position and stops the spool.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Jansen's Aircraft Systems Controls, Inc.Inventor: Harvey B. Jansen
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Publication number: 20040154672Abstract: A proportional, pilot-operated flow control valve is disclosed which can include a cage, a hollow compensating spool slidably disposed within the cage, a hollow metering guide member slidably disposed within the compensating spool, a regulating spool slidably disposed within the guide member, a dampening guide slidably disposed inside the compensating spool to define a dampening chamber, a compensating spring disposed inside the dampening chamber and arranged to urge the dampening guide to engage the metering guide and the compensating spool to engage the cage, a regulating spring disposed inside the regulating spool and urging the regulating spool to abut the dampening guide, and a cartridge, the cartridge having a pilot valve assembly and an adaptor, the adaptor mounted to the cage, the pilot valve assembly mounted to the adaptor, the pilot valve assembly including an actuator.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 26, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Applicant: HydraForce, Inc.Inventor: Zilek Liberfarb
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Patent number: 6755214Abstract: A control valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A piston selectively extendable to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Ross Operating Value CompanyInventor: Jose C. Bento
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Publication number: 20040112445Abstract: A switchable fluid control valve assembly having a regulating spool and a pilot spool disposed within a common bore. A regulating spring urges the regulating spool toward a rest position wherein an oil supply port is fully uncovered. Supply oil entering the assembly causes the regulating spool to assume a position wherein oil flow is throttled to a downstream pressure insufficient to activate an associated valve deactivation mechanism but sufficient to provide lubrication to the engine. When activation of the mechanism is desired, a solenoid moves the pilot spool wherein oil at full pressure is engaged against the regulating spool, de-throttling the flow of oil to the mechanism. When the solenoid is again deactivated, a dump port is opened into the oil flow path, immediately reducing the pressure on the regulating spool which then moves to eclipse the supply port and open a path from the mechanism to drain.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Thomas H. Fischer
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Patent number: 6739293Abstract: Hydraulic engine valve actuation systems and methods for internal combustion engines. The systems utilize a proportional valve to regulate the flow of a working fluid to and from a hydraulic actuator controlling the engine valve position. The position of the proportional valve is controlled by one or more high speed valves to control various engine valve parameters, including engine valve takeoff and landing velocities. Returning all valves to a known starting position between engine valve events avoids accumulation of errors in proportional valve positioning. Embodiments using spool valves for the high speed valves and the proportional valve, and spring return and hydraulic return for the engine valve, are disclosed. A specially shaped spool in the proportional valve provides enhanced control over the engine valve operation. Various further alternate embodiments are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Assignee: Sturman Industries, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Wayne Turner, Miguel Angelo Raimao, Guy Robert Babbitt
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Publication number: 20040089354Abstract: A control valve system includes a housing having an inlet port, a first output port, a second output port, and a valve chamber. A primary spool and a secondary spool are independently slidable in the valve chamber. The secondary spool has a first end for abutting against the primary spool and has a second end with a working surface area greater than the working surface areas at the ends of the primary spool. A solenoid valve assembly controllably connects the inlet port to the second end of the secondary spool. A biaser provides a biasing force to the primary spool. A first fluid passage through the primary spool provides fluid communication between the first output port and a second end of the primary spool for displacing the primary spool relative to the secondary spool in an energy saving mode, thereby regulating a pressure at the first output relative to the predetermined magnitude of the biasing force.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Inventor: Jose Carlos Bento
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Patent number: 6732761Abstract: A control valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A feedback passage extends between the first output and the valve so as to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Ross Operating Valve CompanyInventor: Jose C. Bento
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Patent number: 6695737Abstract: A line pressure regulating system for an automatic transmission comprises a regulator valve that regulates a line pressure by being provided with a hydraulic pressure from an oil pump, wherein the regulator valve is controlled such that a resultant force of a variable control pressure and an elastic member makes an equilibrium with a resultant force of the line pressure and a range pressure that is provided in all ranges except the R range.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2001Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Jong-Sool Park, Chang-Wook Lee, Jae-Duk Jang, Tae-Kyun Kim, Jin-Hee Lee, Hyun-Soo Shim
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Patent number: 6675830Abstract: A pressure control apparatus which controls a pressure of air supplied from a supply hole of a base having a plurality of holes to a supply port of a valve having a plurality of ports is interposed between the base and the valve. This pressure control apparatus comprises a pressure control section which controls a pressure of the air such that the pressure becomes equal to a set pressure, a booster section which outputs a large amount of air to the valve by controlling an output pressure by air from this pressure control section, and a signal control section which outputs a monitor signal indicative of completion of pressure setting when the pressure of air output from the booster section becomes equal to the set pressure.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Yoshitada Doi, Makoto Nomura
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Publication number: 20030221730Abstract: Disclosed is system for controlling a dynamic hydraulic component, such as a hydraulic actuator or motor. The system allows for either zero, restricted or full fluid flow to the hydraulic component. This enables either no movement, slow, precise movements, or rapid, major movements of the component. The-functionality of the system is accomplished using a multi-pilot system acting on a spool valve that has a pilot piston and at least one stop piston. The stop piston(s) can move to limit the movement of the pilot piston.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2003Publication date: December 4, 2003Inventor: Don B. Porter
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Patent number: 6644350Abstract: A variable pressure solenoid (VPS) control valve. The VPS control valve includes an hydraulic section and a magnetic section. The hydraulic section includes a movable valve that receives a pressurized fluid and generates a control pressure, and the magnetic section controls the operation of the movable valve. The movable valve includes an inlet ball valve for limiting the flow of pressurized fluid into the hydraulic section and an exhaust valve for limiting the exhaust of pressurized fluid out of the hydraulic section. The magnetic section includes a spring-biased armature, and an electromagnetic coil for generating a variable electromagnetic field in response to an electrical input signal for moving the spring biased armature.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2000Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Acutex, Inc.Inventors: John Michael Douglass, Paul Anders Christensen
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Patent number: 6644351Abstract: A booster pilot valve operable at ultra low power levels is provided. The booster valve includes a moveable spool capable of directing a fluid flow to at least two different paths. The booster valve may be coupled to a piezotronic three-way valve, which controls the movement of the spool by redirecting a main fluid flow along different paths to create a force on the spool. The piezotronic valve is capable of actuation at very low power levels such as might be provided by a Profibus PA or other Bus system.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: ASCO Controls, LPInventors: Drew LaMarca, Gregory J. Volz
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Patent number: 6640833Abstract: The servovalve comprises an electric motor and a distributor valve integrating a hydraulic slide under the control of said electric motor and further comprising two load channels pierced in a central rod on which blocks are mounted for co-operating with communication orifices of the distributor valve and co-operating with one another and with the ends of the hydraulic slide to define annular chambers including two load chambers connected to the receiver member to be controlled. The two load channels put each of the load chambers into communication respectively with an immediately adjacent annular chamber so as to ensure that the same pressure exists on both sides of the blocks separating said two chambers.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: SNECMA MoteursInventors: Jean-Marie Brocard, Michel Le Texier
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Patent number: 6637461Abstract: A proportional hydraulic valve has a primary control spool with a force feedback actuator attached to one end, wherein the control spool meters flow of fluid to a work port. The force feedback actuator includes a piston coupled to the control spool and defining a first control chamber and a second control chamber on opposite sides of the piston. The surface of the piston has a depression with a first tapered section and a second tapered section. The force feedback actuator includes first electrohydraulic valve with a valve element that meters pressurized fluid selectively to the first and second control chambers to move the piston in opposite directions and produce motion of the control spool. A solenoid exerts a first force that on the valve element. A pilot pin engages the piston and the valve element, whereby, movement of the pilot pin on the first and second tapered sections of the piston applies a second force to the valve element.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Husco International, Inc.Inventor: Timothy A. Post
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Publication number: 20030188788Abstract: The technical field of the invention generally concerns electronically controlled hydraulic valves adapted for use in electro-hydraulically controlled automotive transmissions. The proportional pressure control valve 20 includes a hollow cage 42 pierced by cage tank ports 52, cage clutch ports 54, and by cage pump ports 56. The cage pump ports 56 receive fluid from a pump. The cage clutch ports 54 supply fluid to a hydraulic actuator, such as that for an automotive clutch. The cage clutch ports 54 supply the fluid at a pressure that is proportional to an electrical control signal applied to a solenoid coil 252 of the valve 20. The cage tank ports 52 return fluid from the valve 20 to a tank from which the fluid circulates back to the pump. Located in the cage 42 is a main spool 112 that is movable laterally relative to the cage 42 for controlling a flow of hydraulic fluid between the cage clutch ports 54 and either the cage pump ports 56 or the cage tank ports 52.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2003Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Louis C. Harms, Zilek Liberfarb
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Publication number: 20030178073Abstract: A two, three or four-way valve includes two stages each with working valve components linked by a feedback spring so that a first stage servo unit is auto-nulling and the stroke of the valve member in a second stage valve unit is proportional to the input current to the first stage. An inherently balanced clevis member in the first stage controls flow of pressurized control media, which in combination with direct pressure flow, controls the position of a spool member in the second stage. The spool in turn controls pressure flow to a either one or two metering or input/output flow ports. Transient movement of the clevis due to change in input current to a magnetic servo drive assembly is opposed by bending of the feedback spring arising from the associated movement of the spool, which returns the clevis to its centered null position and stops the spool.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 21, 2003Publication date: September 25, 2003Inventor: Harvey B. Jansen
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Patent number: 6616063Abstract: Disclosed in an injector for injecting fuel into the combustion chambers of an internal combustion engine, in which control part body is received movably in an injector housing and its opening and closing motion is effected via pressure relief of a control chamber. The pressure relief of the control chamber is controlled via an externally actuatable actuator. On the control part body, a sealing seat diameter that seals off the valve chamber is provided, which closes and opens the inlet from a common rail. An annular throttle element of variable cross section is located downstream of the sealing seat diameter of the control part body. An annular throttle element of variable cross section, or a throttle slide with a throttle, is located downstream of the sealing seat diameter of the control part body.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Friedrich Boecking
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Patent number: 6615869Abstract: A solenoid valve has a solenoid, a control valve having a spool, a seat member having an oil hole whose one end communicates with a control pressure chamber between the seat member and the spool, a supply passage through which a second supply port communicates via a control orifice with the control pressure chamber and a drain passage through which the other end of the oil hole is able to communicate with the second drain port. A second orifice or a slit, whose cross sectional opening area is smaller than that of the control orifice, is formed in the supply passage at a periphery of the seat member that comes in contact with the spool so that a flow amount of the oil supplied to and ejected from the control pressure chamber through the supply and drain passages after the spool contacts the seat member is smaller than that before the spool contacts the seat member.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Yuzuru Sudani, Taku Itoh, Haruhiko Uno
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Patent number: 6612331Abstract: A closed loop pressure controller system that sets, measures and controls the process pressure within a semiconductor process is shown. The system is commonly composed of a pressure sensor to collect the pressure information, a controller box that hosts the control electronics, and a valve to physically affect the conductivity of the inlet or outlet gas line and accordingly the process pressure. The present invention differs from the prior art by using closed-loop motor control of the valve, rather than the method of the prior art, where the valve position is controlled by a stepper motor actuator driven in an open loop fashion. It is demonstrated that the utility of such prior art open-loop configurations is limited by the fact that the achievable precision of the valve position is hindered by static friction in the valve system, and the non-linear character of the torque versus shaft-angle of the motor (among other error components).Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventors: Per Cederstav, Sean Mallory, Emmanuel Vyers, William Ballard, David Kruse
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Publication number: 20030140975Abstract: A control valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A piston selectively extendable to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Jose C. Bento
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Patent number: 6598622Abstract: A directional control valve which has a movable control piston (5) which separates two pressure chambers (6, 8) from each other in the valve housing interior, which pressure chambers can be subjected to control pressure in order to move the control piston (5) into axial positions corresponding to relevant switch positions of the valve in accordance with the difference in pressure prevailing between the control chambers (6, 8). An arrangement (29) acts on the control piston (5), produces an actuating force and prestresses the control piston for movement into an axial position corresponding to a desired predetermined position.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Bosch Rexroth AGInventors: Werner Reith, Binh Nguyen Xuan
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Patent number: 6591865Abstract: To make it easy to mount magnets for monitoring a switched state of a valve element in a solenoid valve and to easily mount magnetometric sensors for sensing an approach of the magnet in a state of excellent water resistance and dustproof property. In a solenoid valve for switching a direction of a flow of pressure fluid by driving the solenoid valve by pilot fluid pressure, ring-shaped magnets 13A and 13B are fitted with small-diameter portions 11a formed at end portions of a valve element 11 and is fixed by press fitting and engaging caps 14A and 14B forming faces to be in contact with pistons 14A and 14B at the valve element ends. A housing chamber 30 is formed outside a valve hole 10a in a valve body 10 and in a position close to the magnets, magnetometric sensors 31A and 31B are housed in the housing chamber 30, and a cover 35 is mounted to the housing chamber 30.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: SMC CorporationInventor: Keiji Misumi
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Patent number: 6585004Abstract: Disclosed is system for controlling a dynamic hydraulic component, such as a hydraulic actuator or motor. The system allows for either zero, restricted or full fluid flow to the hydraulic component. This enables either no movement, slow, precise movements, or rapid, major movements of the component. The functionality of the system is accomplished using a multi-pilot system acting on a spool valve that has a pilot piston and at least one stop piston. The stop piston(s) can move to limit the movement of the pilot piston.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventor: Don B. Porter
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Patent number: 6571828Abstract: This invention generally concerns electronically controlled hydraulic valves for use in electro-hydraulically controlled transmissions. The proportional pressure control valve 20 includes a hollow cage 42 pierced by cage tank ports 52, cage clutch ports 54, and cage pump ports 56. The cage pump ports 56 receive fluid from a pump. The cage clutch ports 54 supply fluid to a hydraulic actuator. The cage tank ports 52 return fluid from the valve 20 to a tank from where fluid circulates back to the pump. Main spool 112 controls fluid flow between cage clutch ports 54 and cage pump ports 56 or cage tank ports 52. An electromagnetically operated pilot valve regulates fluid pressure applied to a control pressure surface 138. A feedback pressure passage 126, having a feedback restriction orifice 128, restrains the rate fluid flows between the cage clutch ports 54 and the feedback pressure surface 114.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Louis C. Harms, Zilek Liberfarb
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Patent number: 6564546Abstract: A variable stall speed control (VSC) device for use with a non-lockup torque converter of an automatic transmission of an engine for improving the stall speed property of a mechanical power transmission torque converter. The VSC device hydraulically alters and varies the preset RPM stall range of a torque converter associated with an automatic transmission of an engine while maintaining or improving its coupling efficiency. This is accomplished by activating the VSC system which closes the fluid circuit to the converter to relieve the internal converter fluid pressure in order to allow the existing pressure in the converter to cause a discharge of a portion of its fluid. This reduces the amount of fluid and pressure in the torque converter allowing the impeller to rotate faster with the same amount of engine input torque. This results in an immediate increase in the stall (slip) speed of the torque converter. The VSC system is deactivated when the desired stall speed of the converter is reached.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: FB Performance Transmission Inc.Inventor: Fred Brown
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Publication number: 20030089407Abstract: A control valve system including a housing having an inlet, a first output, and a second output. The control valve system further includes a slidable valve positionable in a first position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the first output; a second position, where fluid communication is established between the inlet and the second output; and a third position, where fluid communication is prevented between the inlet and the first or second output. A solenoid valve assembly is coupled in fluid communication with the inlet and is positionable in an actuated position, where fluid communication is established with the inlet to move the valve from the first position to the second position, and a deactuated position. A feedback passage extends between the first output and the valve so as to position the valve in the third position in response to fluid pressure within the first output.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2002Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventor: Jose C. Bento
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Publication number: 20030084946Abstract: A variable pressure solenoid (VPS) control valve. The VPS control valve includes an hydraulic section and a magnetic section. The hydraulic section includes a movable valve that receives a pressurized fluid and generates a control pressure, and the magnetic section controls the operation of the movable valve. The movable valve includes an inlet ball valve for limiting the flow of pressurized fluid into the hydraulic section and an exhaust valve for limiting the exhaust of pressurized fluid out of the hydraulic section. The magnetic section includes a spring-biased armature, and an electromagnetic coil for generating a variable electromagnetic field in response to an electrical input signal for moving the spring biased armature.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Applicant: Acutex, Inc.Inventors: John Michael Douglass, Paul Anders Christensen
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Patent number: 6543481Abstract: A pilot operated valve assembly including a valve body having a pressurized air supply inlet port in communication with a source of pressurized air and at least one cylinder passage. A main valve bore extends axially within the valve body and a main valve member is movable between predetermined positions within the main valve bore to selectively direct pressurized air from the inlet port through at least one cylinder passage. A pilot valve bore is formed within the main valve member and extends coaxially relative to the main valve bore. A pair of short pilot cylinder ports spaced apart from one another extend between the main valve bore and the pilot valve bore. A pilot valve member is movable between predetermined positions within the pilot valve bore to selectively direct air from the pilot valve bore through alternating ones of the pilot cylinder ports to act upon the main valve member thereby moving the main valve member between predetermined positions.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: MAC Valves, Inc.Inventors: James A. Neff, Richard A. Fagerlie
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Patent number: 6539971Abstract: A technique of assembling a solenoid operated valve to a hydraulic manifold in which the manifold has provided thereon undercut stanchions disposed on opposite sides of a cavity communicating with fluid valving passages. A U-shaped bracket with a central aperture is received over the solenoid and a first pair of tabs which engage lugs disposed respectively on opposite sides of the valve body function to prevent relative rotation between the bracket and valve. The bracket has a pair of oppositely extending resiliently deflectable spring arms each having a pair of second tabs thereon; and, the spring arms are deflected on the stanchions upon user insertion of the valve body into the cavity. The spring arms resiliently engage the undercuts to prevent removal of the valve, and the second tabs engage the sides of the stanchions to prevent relative rotation of the bracket and valve.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Jorge A. Moreno, Charles Chang
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Publication number: 20030047222Abstract: A pilot operated valve assembly including a valve body having a pressurized air supply inlet port in communication with a source of pressurized air and at least one cylinder passage. A main valve bore extends axially within the valve body and a main valve member is movable between predetermined positions within the main valve bore to selectively direct pressurized air from the inlet port through at least one cylinder passage. A pilot valve bore is formed within the main valve member and extends coaxially relative to the main valve bore. A pair of short pilot cylinder ports spaced apart from one another extend between the main valve bore and the pilot valve bore. A pilot valve member is movable between predetermined positions within the pilot valve bore to selectively direct air from the pilot valve bore through alternating ones of the pilot cylinder ports to act upon the main valve member thereby moving the main valve member between predetermined positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2001Publication date: March 13, 2003Inventors: James A. Neff, Martha Welch, Richard A. Fagerlie
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Patent number: 6527010Abstract: A spool valve may be used in a subsea system with a single upstream pilot valve to control the spool valve. The spool valve opens and closes a main valve in response to fluid signals from the pilot valve. The main valve is connected to a source of pressurized supply fluid, which is selectively directed to a downstream apparatus. The spool valve and the main valve can be produced in an integrated design with a single body. In an alternative embodiment, the spool valve and main valve are separate with separate bodies. The spool valve may also be used in non-subsea systems.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Gilmore Valve Co.Inventor: Richard R. Watson
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Patent number: 6523569Abstract: A variable pressure solenoid (VPS) control valve. The VPS control valve includes an hydraulic section and a magnetic section. The hydraulic section includes a movable valve that receives a pressurized fluid and generates a control pressure, and the magnetic section controls the operation of the movable valve. The movable valve includes an inlet ball valve for limiting the flow of pressurized fluid into the hydraulic section and an exhaust valve for limiting the exhaust of pressurized fluid out of the hydraulic section. The magnetic section includes a spring-biased armature, and an electromagnetic coil for generating a variable electromagnetic field in response to an electrical input signal for moving the spring biased armature.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2000Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Acutex, Inc.Inventors: John Michael Douglass, Paul Anders Christensen
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Patent number: 6520202Abstract: A manifold valve in which mounting of a magnetometric sensor is easy and wiring is easy and which is easy to handle in maintenance and has a position detecting function is obtained. This valve is formed of a solenoid valve 1 and a manifold base 2 onto which the solenoid valve 1 is mounted. The solenoid valve 1 includes a magnet 20 mounted to a piston 12a to detect a position and a depression 22 in which a sensor is to be mounted and which is provided in a position corresponding to the magnet 20. The manifold base 2 includes a magnetometric sensor 21 provided to a position corresponding to the depression 22 in a projecting state and the magnetometric sensor 21 is automatically mounted in the depression 22 when the solenoid valve 1 is mounted onto the manifold base 2.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Makoto Ishikawa
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Patent number: 6505642Abstract: A manifold valve in which mounting of a magnetometric sensor is easy and wiring is easy and which is easy to handle in maintenance and has a position detecting function is obtained. This valve is formed of a solenoid valve 1, a manifold base 2, and an intermediate block 3 disposed between the solenoid valve 1 and the manifold base 2. The solenoid valve 1 includes a magnet 20 for detecting a position and moving in synchronization with a spool 8 and a depression 22 in which a sensor is to be mounted and which is provided in a position corresponding to the magnet 20. The manifold base 2 includes a first plug 28 to be connected to a controller for controlling the solenoid valve. The intermediate block 3 includes a projecting portion 37 to be fitted in the depression 22, a magnetometric sensor 21 housed in the projecting portion 37, and an insertion hole 43 through which a conductor 44 connecting the magnetometric sensor 21 and the first plug 28 is inserted.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2001Date of Patent: January 14, 2003Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Shinji Miyazoe, Makoto Ishikawa
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Publication number: 20020162592Abstract: A pilot valve having a sleeve with a central hole therethrough and a first undercut region in an exterior surface thereof which includes a further passageway. A spool is reciprocally mounted in the further passageway for movement between first and second positions. A first end of the spool and a second undercut region thereon has a radially outwardly extending flange larger in diameter than a diameter of the central hole. A spring is provided for continually urging the flange toward a first position thereof in engagement with a first end of the sleeve to effect a closing off of the communication between the second undercut region and the passageway. A second end of the spool defines a nozzle orifice and opposes an end of the armature member configured to selectively move toward and away from the nozzle orifice to control a level of pressure at the control port.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2001Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventor: Charles J. Bowden
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Patent number: 6474362Abstract: The normally closed, two-position, three-way latching hydroseal valve can be used in subsea applications in connection with the production of oil and natural gas. The latching hydroseal valve can be operated by remote pilot valves to open and close the latching hydroseal valve or in an alternative embodiment attached solenoid pilot valves can be used. The seal carrier has pistons of different diameters to latch the valve open after the pilot fluid is vented to atmosphere. The main seal assembly includes a bi-directional seal.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 5, 2002Assignee: Gilmore Valve Co., Ltd.Inventors: Rodney C. Hope, Thomas W. Neugebauer, Rick Whorton
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Patent number: 6450202Abstract: A valve having a control means for the control of a fluid flow, such control means being able to be caused to move in two opposite switching directions. In order to render possible delay-free switching over after long periods of inactivity, a drive means is provided, which has spring means, which are tensioned when the control means is moved into a terminal switching position. The energy then stored is available for increasing the force during the next switching movement.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Festo AG & Co.Inventor: Grzegorz Bogdanowicz
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Patent number: 6446668Abstract: A multiway valve for switching the fluid flow of a pressure medium comprising a valve housing (1) with several ports (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b) for the pressure medium which are connected with an inner valve hole (5) in which a valve spool (6) for switching the fluid flow between said ports (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b) is slidely disposed, and which comprises at least one cap element (7a, 7b) for sealing said valve hole (5) on at least one end side, at least one piston (11) for axially moving said valve spool (6) in a desired switching position which corresponds with a drive chamber (12) formed in the end section of the valve hole (5) to and from which a control fluid is supplied and ejected respectively in order to move said piston (11), wherein said at least one cap element (7a, 7b) comprises at least one through bore (18a, 18b; 25) which in the mounted state of the cap element (7a, 7b) is substantially disposed in a right angle to the axis of the valve hole (6), and wherein said through bore (18a, 18b; 25) correType: GrantFiled: March 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: AB Rexroth MecmanInventor: Staffan Hedlund
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Patent number: 6435472Abstract: Proportional variable force solenoid valve for controlling the pressure of a fluid in a fluid control system comprises a solenoid housing having therein a solenoid coil, an armature movable in response to electrical current applied to the solenoid coil, and a biasing spring for biasing the armature in a direction to establish a valve fluid pressure response to solenoid coil current. An inner armature end cooperates with or engages a damping member residing in a fluid damping chamber to reduce non-linear valve responses resulting from pressure oscillations in the fluid control system.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2001Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Assignee: Saturn Electronics & Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Hamid Najmolhoda, David L. Seid, David A. Nezwek, John A. Cruden, Jr.