Patent ID: 7219875
Filing Date: 2007-05-22
Classification: F16K

Abstract:
1. A solenoid operated valve assembly comprising: (a) a coil including first and second spaced flux collectors defining a flux loop about the coil; (b) a valve body attached to one of said flux first and second flux collectors having an inlet and an outlet with a valve member movable therein for controlling flow between the inlet and outlet; (c) an armature guided for sliding movement within the coil and defining a working air gap with one of said first and second flux collectors; (d) a flux director disposed about said armature and contacting one of said first and second flux collectors, with portions thereof extending inwardly thereof toward said armature to reduce the radial air gap between said armature and said flux collectors, said portions of said flux director including a plurality of inwardly extending fingers; and, (e) structure associated with the armature operatively contacting the valve member for effecting movement thereof.