Patent ID: 12222045

It should be understood that the appended drawings are not necessarily to scale, presenting a somewhat simplified representation of various features illustrative of the basic principles of the invention. The specific design features of the sequence of operations as disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and shapes of various illustrated components, will be determined in part by the particular intended application and use environment. Certain features of the illustrated embodiments have been enlarged or distorted relative to others to facilitate visualization and clear understanding. In particular, thin features may be thickened, for example, for clarity or illustration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides valves, the components used to create valves, and piston-activated cartridge valves. A system comprising a plurality of insertable devices that are used to create various valve configurations is also provided herein, as are various fluid circuits that can be created using the insertable devices described herein.

FIG.1shows a portion of one embodiment of a cartridge valve assembly (or piston activated cartridge valve (“PACV”))10. The cartridge valve assembly10has a longitudinal axis L. The cartridge valve assembly10comprises a cartridge housing20which accommodates a slidable member70, a stop50, a spring88that biases the slidable member70away from the stop50into a normally closed position in this embodiment, and a retaining member such as clip40. The cartridge valve assembly10comprises one of the plurality of insertable devices described above. The cartridge valve assembly10can be inserted into a pipe of a typical fluid fitting with at least one branch connection in order to control the flow of fluids (such as liquids) through the pipe.

FIGS.1and2show the cartridge housing20. The cartridge housing20has a longitudinal axis, a first end (or “retention end”)22defining a first opening23, and a second end (or “slidable member end”)24defining a second opening25. The longitudinal axis of the cartridge housing20and that of the cartridge valve assembly10coincide in this embodiment. The longitudinal axis of the cartridge housing20extends between the first and second ends22and24of the cartridge housing20along the length of the cartridge housing20. Depending on how the cartridge housing20is oriented with respect to the connecting fluid circuits, the first opening23can be an inlet or an outlet and the second opening25can be an outlet or an inlet. The cartridge housing20has a generally cylindrical exterior (or “exterior surface”)21, an internal space18extending between the first and second openings23and25, and an interior surface27defining the internal space18.

The first end22of the cartridge housing20may comprise a flange19that projects outward from the generally cylindrical exterior of the cartridge housing to limit the insertion depth of the cartridge housing20within the body of a fitting which may comprise a pipe or tubing flow circuit. The second end24of the cartridge housing20may comprise a flared portion35along the interior surface wall that flares out from a smaller opening into a larger opening.

The interior surface27of the cartridge housing20may have several distinct surfaces in the form of steps, bores, sections, or recesses therein. There may be any suitable number of such distinct surfaces. The number of surfaces may depend on the configuration of the stop50and the slidable member70. At least a portion of the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20may have a circular cross-section (or a configuration of the interior of a hollow cylinder). In various embodiments described herein, however, some portions of the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20may have non-circular cross-sections.

FIGS.1,2, and5show that, in one embodiment, the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20comprises from the first end22of the cartridge housing20to the second end24of the cartridge housing: a recess26, such as a circumferential recess, for holding the retaining member40; a first section28; a stop abutment wall29; a second section30; a transition wall31; a third section32; and a fourth section34of the interior surface. The first section (or “stop bore”)28holds and encloses the stop50(and may at least partially enclose some of the other components in certain embodiments). The second section (or “slidable member bore”)30holds and at least partially encloses a first portion of the slidable member70. The third section (or “seat”)32provides a sealing surface. The fourth section (or “slide surface”)34holds and partially encloses a second portion of the slidable member70. As shown inFIG.5, the relationship between the dimensions of the cross-sections of the first, second, third, and fourth sections28,30,32, and34is one in which the cross-sectional dimensions (e.g., diameters) become smaller when proceeding from the first end22to the second end24of the cartridge housing. Thus, the cross-sectional dimension of the first section28is greater than that of the second section30, etc. This is the case until reaching the flared portion35that widens to a greater cross-sectional dimension than that of the fourth section34.

The sealing surface formed by the third section32may have any suitable configuration. In some cases, the sealing surface may be tapered such that it narrows when proceeding along the longitudinal centerline of the cartridge housing toward the second end24of the cartridge housing20. The sealing surface may, for example, be angular (or partially conical) as shown inFIGS.1,2, and5where it has a side cross-section formed of rectilinear segments. In alternative embodiments, as shown inFIGS.27and28the sealing surface may have a rounded configuration where it has a side cross-section formed of curvilinear segments. The term “tapered”, as used herein, will cover any such configurations that narrow toward the second end24of the cartridge housing20.

One embodiment of the stop50is shown in greater detail inFIG.3. The stop50provides a surface against which one end of the spring88biasing the slidable member70is prevented from moving longitudinally. The stop50is located within first section28of the internal space of the cartridge housing20. The stop50has a longitudinal axis, a length, a first end52, a second end54, and sides55. The longitudinal axis of the stop50extends between the first and second ends52and54of the stop along the length of the stop. The longitudinal axis of the stop50and that of the cartridge valve assembly10coincide in this embodiment. The stop50can be of any suitable length and width (or diameter), provided that the width of the stop50is less than the width of the first section28of the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20. The length of the stop50may in various embodiments be less than, equal to, or greater than the width of the stop.

The stop50can have any suitable configuration provided that it has certain features. The first feature is that it is able to be held in place within the first section28of the cartridge housing20. The second feature is that there is at least one fluid flow path58between the sides55of the stop50and the first section28of the cartridge housing20. A first portion57of the sides55of the stop50are in contact with the first section28of the interior surface of the cartridge housing20. This may require that the stop50be at least partially cylindrical. In this embodiment, the first portion57comprises a pair of partially cylindrical outer surfaces. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1,3, and5, a second portion59of the sides55of the stop50extending longitudinally from the first end to the second end of the stop form inner walls that are not in contact with (that is, they are spaced away from) the first section28of the cartridge housing20so that at least one fluid flow path (or flow channel)58is formed along the length of the stop from the first end52of the stop50to the second end54of the stop. A plurality of flow paths58can be formed along the length of the stop from the first end52of the stop to the second end54of the stop.

The flow paths58between the second portion59of the sides of the stop50and the first section28of the cartridge housing20can be provided in at least two different ways. The first way is shown inFIGS.1and3. In this embodiment of the stop50, the second portion59of the sides of the stop50have recesses therein to provide flow channels. The flow channels58may have any suitable configuration. InFIGS.1and3, the stop50has a cross-sectional shape with portions of a pie-shaped piece removed therefrom (except for at the center of the pie, which forms a segment of a circle). The recesses are, thus, defined by generally planar side walls59and an inner partial cylindrical surface57A that is near the center of the cross-section of the stop50. The remaining portions of the stop can be considered to form a pair of ears56. The first section28of the cartridge housing20in this embodiment does not require any recesses therein to complete the formation of the flow channels58. Of course, recesses may also be provided in the first section28of the cartridge housing20to contribute to the formation of flow channels.

FIG.3shows that the stop50may have several additional features. For example, the first end52of the stop50may have a tool groove or slot62therein for use in inserting a threaded stop into the cartridge housing20and adjusting the position of the stop50. The second end54of the stop50may have a spring recess (or “spring groove”)60therein for retaining one end of a spring. The spring recess60may be in any suitable configuration, such in the configuration of a hollow cylindrical shape that is removed from the second end54of the stop50in the embodiment shown in the drawings. This provides a spring hub61on the second end54of the stop50.

FIG.2Ashows an alternative way of providing the flow paths58between the sides55of the stop50and the first section28of the cartridge housing20. In this embodiment, the flow channels58adjacent to the sides of the stop50are formed by one or more (i.e., a plurality of) recesses36in the first section28of the interior surface of the cartridge housing20. In this case, as shown inFIG.3A, the stop50may have a cylindrical configuration (and may resemble a thick washer), and the sides55of the stop50do not need to have recesses therein to form flow channels around the stop50.

FIG.1shows the slidable member (or “slide”)70is located at least partially within the internal space18of the cartridge housing20. The slidable member70is shown in greater detail inFIG.4. The slidable member70has a first end72, a second end74, and sides73. The slidable member70comprises a first portion75A, an intermediate portion75B, and a second portion75C.

The first portion75A of the slidable member extends from the first end72of the slidable member to the intermediate portion75B of the slidable member. The first portion75A of the slidable member70fits completely within a portion of the internal space of the cartridge housing20. The first portion75A of the slidable member70can have any suitable configuration. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1and4, the first portion75A is cylindrical. The first portion75A of the slidable member70has an outer surface78that has a cross-section that is smaller than the cross-section of the second portion30of the internal space18of the cartridge housing20and is spaced away from the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20. This provides a space for fluid to flow between the outer surface78of the first portion of the slidable member70and the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20. (In other embodiments, the outer surface78may be in contact with the cartridge housing and comprise an outer bearing surface.) The first end72of the slidable member70may have a recess therein, such as a spring recess (or “spring groove”)76which extends into the first end72of the slidable member70toward the intermediate portion thereof.

The intermediate portion75B of the slidable member70has one end joined to the first portion75A of the slidable member70and its other end joined to second portion75C of the slidable member70. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1and4, the first portion75A, intermediate portion75B, and second portion75C are integral parts of a single component. In other embodiments, they may comprise separate components. The intermediate portion75B of the slidable member70has a tapered outer surface80which forms a sealing surface with the third section32of the interior surface of the cartridge housing20. The tapered outer surface80narrows in width from the boundary with the first portion75A of the slidable member70to the boundary with the second portion75C. The intermediate portion75B of the slidable member70may have any suitable configuration that provides a sealing surface. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1and4, the tapered outer surface80has a truncated conical configuration.

The second portion75C of the slidable member70extends from the intermediate portion75B of the slidable member to the second end74of the slidable member. The second portion75C of the slidable member70has a first end81A, a second end81B, and sides82. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1and4, the second portion75C of the slidable member70has a generally cylindrical configuration. The first end81A of the second portion75C of the slidable member70fits completely within the internal space18of the cartridge housing20. The second end81B of the second portion75C of the slidable member70is the same as the second end74of the slidable member70. The second end74of the slidable member70protrudes from the second opening25of the cartridge housing to a rounded tip86as shown inFIGS.4and5. The second portion75C of the slidable member70has an outer surface defined by sides82that has a cross-section that is slightly smaller than the cross-section of the fourth section34of the internal space of the cartridge housing20so that the slidable member70may slide longitudinally within the fourth section34of the cartridge housing20.

A first portion82A of the surface of the sides82of the second portion75C of the slidable member70is in sliding contact with the fourth section34of the interior surface of the cartridge housing20. A second portion of the sides82of the second portion75C of the slidable member that extends longitudinally at least part of the way between the first end81A to the second end81B of the second portion75C of the slidable member70is not in contact with (that is, is spaced away from) the fourth section34of the cartridge housing. As shown inFIG.5, at least one fluid flow path (or flow channel)84is formed along the length of the second portion75C of the slidable member70from a location adjacent the first end81A of the second portion75C of the slidable member70to a location adjacent to the second end74of slideable member70which extends beyond the second end24of the cartridge housing20. The flow path(s)84allow fluid to flow between the outer surface of the second portion75C of the slidable member70and the fourth section34of the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20. As shown inFIGS.1and4, a plurality of flow paths84can be formed along the length of the second portion75C of the slidable member70from a location adjacent the first end81A of the second portion75C of the slidable member70to a location adjacent to the second end74of slideable member70which extends beyond the second end24of the cartridge housing20.

The flow paths84between the outer surface of the second portion75C of the slidable member70and the interior surface27of the cartridge housing20can be provided in at least two different ways. The first way is shown inFIGS.1,4, and5. In this embodiment of the slidable member70, the second portion of the sides82of the slidable member70has at least one recess (or a plurality of) recesses85therein to provide flow channels84when the valve is opened as shown inFIG.10. The flow channels84may have any suitable configuration. InFIGS.1,4, and5, the recesses85are defined by a plurality of rectilinear channels in the side walls82of the second portion of the slidable member70. There may be any suitable number of such recesses. As shown inFIG.4, there are four recesses85that are disposed radially around the second portion75C of the slidable member70. The recesses85in this embodiment terminate short of the intermediate portion75B and the second end74of the second portion75C of the slidable member70. The fourth section34of the cartridge housing20in this embodiment does not require any recesses therein to complete the formation of the flow channels84. Of course, recesses may also be provided in the fourth section34of the cartridge housing20for this purpose as shown inFIG.2AandFIGS.25-28.

As shown inFIGS.1and4, the second end74of the slidable member70is closed. In alternative embodiments, there can be one or more openings in the second end74of the slidable member70. Such openings can be provided so long as the second end74has a surface configuration that allows an actuator piston to freely move the slidable member70when the actuator piston contacts the tip86. One example of an embodiment in which the second end has an opening is one in which the second end74has a center hole in the tip86. Another example is one in which the second end74has a spoked profile with spokes having open channels between the spokes that minimally disrupts the application of force on the second end74of the slidable member70by an actuator piston.

FIG.2Ashows an alternative way of providing the flow channels84between the sides82of the second portion75C of the slidable member70and the fourth section34of the cartridge housing20. In the embodiment shown inFIG.2A, the flow channels84adjacent to the sides of the slidable member70are formed by at least one (or a plurality of) recesses87in the fourth section34of the interior surface of the cartridge housing20. In such an embodiment, the second portion75C of the slidable member70may have a cylindrical configuration, and the sides82of the second portion75C of the slidable member70does not need to have recesses therein as shown inFIG.4and in the embodiment shown inFIGS.25and26.

FIGS.1and5show that the spring88is positioned between the stop50and the slidable member70. The spring88can comprise any suitable type of component or spring that is capable of biasing the slidable member70away from the stop50when the spring88is uncompressed, and toward the stop50when the spring88is compressed. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the spring88has two ends, wherein the first end of the spring is adjacent the second end54of the stop50, and the second end of the spring88is adjacent the first end72of the slidable member70. It should be understood that the ends of the spring may be inserted into a recess in the second end54of the stop50and/or a recess in the first end72of the slidable member70, and for the purposes of the present description, will still be considered to be adjacent to the ends of those respective components.

FIG.1shows a retaining member40for holding the first end52of the stop50in place positioned within the cartridge housing20. The retaining member40can comprise any suitable structure that is capable of holding the first end52of the stop50in place in position within the cartridge housing20. In the embodiment shown in the drawings, the retaining member40is a relatively thin, flat, generally ring-shaped component which has a break therein so that there is a gap40C formed where two ends40A and40B of the body of the ring-shaped retaining member40are spaced apart. This allows the ends40A and40B of the retaining member40to be squeezed together so that the retaining member40can be inserted into the retaining member groove26in the cartridge housing20.

FIG.5shows the piston-activated cartridge valve (“PACV”) assembly10in a closed position. The closed position may be the normal position when no force is applied to second end74of the slidable member70.FIG.5shows the relationships of slidable member70, spring88, stop50and retaining member40as they are disposed within the cartridge housing20. As shown inFIG.5, the spring88is in an uncompressed condition so that the sloped sealing surface80of the intermediate portion75B of the slidable member70is in contact with the angular sealing surface of the third section32of the inside surface27of the cartridge housing20to prevent fluids from flowing through the inside of the cartridge housing from one end22thereof to the other end24.

FIG.6shows another one of the insertable devices that comprises part of the system described herein.FIG.6shows one embodiment of an actuator piston90that may be used to open and/or close the flow of fluid through one or more of the cartridge valve assemblies10described above. The actuator piston90can be actuated in any suitable manner including, but not limited to mechanically, hydraulically, or pneumatically. The actuator piston90has a longitudinal centerline, LP, a first end92, a second end94, and sides96. The actuator piston90in the embodiment shown inFIG.6comprises two differently shaped portions, a first portion97and a second portion98. The first portion97of the actuator piston90comprises a generally cylindrical portion that extends from the first end92of the actuator piston to a transition area99between the first and second ends,92and94of the actuator piston. The second portion98of the actuator piston90comprises a frustoconical portion that extends from the transition area99to the second end94of the actuator piston. A portion98A of the frustoconical portion at the second end94of the actuator piston90is rounded to interface with the tip86of the slidable member70.

The first generally cylindrical portion97of the actuator piston90may have at least one circumferential recess95therein (shown inFIG.7) with a seal100having a ring-shaped configuration (a “sealing ring”) comprising at least a portion that is placed into the circumferential recess95and another portion extending outwardly from the recess95. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.6and7, the first portion97of the actuator piston90has a plurality of sealing rings100thereon. The sealing rings100shown inFIG.7are suitable for use when the actuator piston90is part of an actuator piston assembly (described below) where the actuator piston90is provided with a piston housing and the actuator piston assembly is inserted into a pipe fitting.FIG.7also shows that the actuator piston90may also have a mechanical connection opening or slot91.

The actuator piston90may comprise part of an actuator piston assembly120comprising a generally cylindrical piston housing122such as shown inFIG.7A(without the piston90therein). The actuator piston90is intended to be inserted into pipes that form a valve body, one example of which is a tee fitting. However, the inside of the valve body may have a rough surface finish, which would interfere with the sealing and/or movement of the actuator piston90. The insertable piston housing122is intended to overcome any limitations of the interior surface of the body that could be detrimental to the piston sealing or movement. The piston housing122has an exterior surface122A, and interior surface122B, a first end124, and a second end126. The first end124defines a first piston housing opening124A, and the second end126defines a second piston housing opening126A. The piston housing122may have a generally cylindrical exterior and an internal space128extending between the first and second openings124A and126A. The interior surface122B defines the internal space128. In some embodiments, the first end of the insertable piston housing122may comprise a flange or tapered portion130that projects outward from the generally cylindrical exterior of the piston housing to limit the insertion depth of the piston housing122into the valve body and provide a piston sealing joint or mechanical attachment area for a piston actuator mechanism. At least a portion of the interior surface122B of the piston housing122has a circular cross-section, and the actuator piston90is inserted into the internal space128in the piston housing. The piston housing122may have a cylindrical interior surface122B as shown inFIG.7A, or an interior surface with one or more steps, bores, or walls.

FIG.8is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a piston seal100. This alternative piston seal100comprises an inner wall102, a first sealing end104, a second sealing end106and a seal lip108. The piston seal100shown inFIG.8is an example of a seal that can be used in a pipe fitting when the actuator piston90alone is inserted into the pipe fitting, and an actuator piston assembly is not used. This alternative piston seal100has a wider seal lip108to form a seal with the rough interior surface of the pipe fitting.

FIGS.9-11show a first embodiment of a piston activated cartridge valve (“PACV”) Tee assembly using several of the components described above.FIGS.9and11show the piston activated cartridge valve Tee assembly200in the closed position. The piston activated cartridge valve Tee assembly comprises a valve body202, an actuator piston90such as shown inFIG.6, and a plurality of the cartridge valve assemblies10A and10B as shown inFIG.1that are disposed within the valve body202.

The valve body202comprises three generally cylindrical tubular members (or tubular portions or branches)202A,202B, and202C. The tubular members each have a proximal end where they are joined together at an intersection and a distal end that is spaced away from the intersection. The tubular members202A,202B, and202C each have an outer surface, an inside surface, and a wall between their inside surface and outside surface. The tubular members have openings at their proximal ends and at their distal ends, and a typically cylindrical passageway extending between their proximal and distal ends. Two of the tubular members202A and202B have their axes aligned, and the third forms a branch202C that is orthogonal to tubular members202A and202B. The distal ends204and206of the two tubular members in alignment202A and202B, respectively, can be considered to be “fluid connection ends” since they will typically be joined to pipes. The distal ends of the tubular members202A,202B, and202C may have a plurality of threaded connections thereon (as inFIG.16).

The actuator piston90is disposed within the branch202C of the valve body202. In this embodiment, the branch202C contains actuator volume210which is defined by the inside surface212of the branch202C and the first end92of the actuator piston90and the distal end of tubular member202C. Once the piston90is installed, a variable volume for gas actuation exists depending on the position of the piston. The actuator piston90slides back and forth inside the branch202C to engage with the ends74of the slidable members70and control the operation of the PACV assemblies10A and10B. The piston activated cartridge valves10A and10B are in the closed position inFIG.9. The sealing surfaces80of the slidable members70are in contact with the third sections32of the inside surface27of the cartridge housing20to prevent fluid from flowing past such sealing surfaces (as described in conjunction withFIG.5).

FIG.10shows the piston activated cartridge valve Tee assembly200in an open position. As shown inFIG.10, when activation pressure is introduced inside of actuator volume210using a solenoid valve or the like, the actuator piston90is moved toward the intersection of the tubular members with an activation force F. The actuator piston90is moved toward the ends74of the slidable members70of PACV assemblies10A and10B that are housed within the valve body202. When contact is made between the frustoconical actuation surface98of the actuator piston90and the tips86of the slidable members70, this transmits sufficient linear forces to overcome the opposing fluid pressure located at the fluid connection ends204and206and the spring forces (exerted by the springs88) on the slidable members70and pushes the slidable members70outward. This opens a space between the sealing surfaces80, permitting flow between fluid connection ends204and206as shown inFIG.10. Upon release of the force F generated on actuator piston90, by venting the actuator volume210, the fluid pressure at fluid connection ends204and206generate forces that are assisted by springs88on slidable members70. These forces move the slidable members70inward until the sealing surfaces80are in contact with the third section (or “seat”)32of the inside surface of the cartridge housing which stops the flow.

FIG.12shows a piston activated cartridge valve cross assembly300in the closed position. The piston activated cartridge valve cross assembly300is comprised of a valve body302. The valve body302comprises four generally cylindrical tubular members (or tubular portions or branches)302A,302B,302C, and302D. The tubular members each have a proximal end where they are joined together at an intersection and a distal end that is spaced away from the intersection. The tubular members302A,302B,302C, and302D each have an outer surface, an inside surface, and a wall between their inside surface and outside surface. The tubular members have openings at their proximal ends and at their distal ends, and a typically cylindrical passageway extending between their proximal and distal ends. Tubular members302A and302B have their axes aligned. Tubular members302C and302D have their axes aligned and are orthogonal to tubular members302A and302B. The valve body302has a first fluid connection end304and a second fluid connection end306on the opposite side thereof. A third fluid connection end308extends downward, and an actuator connection end310extends upward between the first and second connection ends304,306. It should be understood that the terms up, down, left, right or other similar directional descriptors are related to the views shown in the drawings and do not define absolute directions in any other sense. In one embodiment, fluid connection end304can be connected to a main fluid circuit, fluid connection end306can be connected to a discharge, and fluid connection end308can be connected to a purge source.

The cross assembly300comprises a plurality of the cartridge valve assemblies10A,10B, and10C as shown inFIG.1that are disposed within the valve body302. The piston activated cartridge valve cross assembly300shown inFIG.12also comprises an actuator piston312shown in greater detail inFIG.15. The actuator piston312is disposed within the fourth branch302D of the valve body302. The actuator piston312has a longitudinal centerline, a first end316, and a second end320. The actuator piston312comprises four portions having differing configurations. These comprise a first cylindrical portion312A, a second stem portion312B, a third partial frustoconical portion312C, and a fourth portion with elliptical sides312D when viewed from the end.

FIG.13shows the piston activated cartridge valve cross assembly300ofFIG.12when the fluid connection ends304and308are in the open position. The actuator piston312utilizes the second end320thereof, and the third partial frustoconical portion312C to control the operation of a plurality of PACV assemblies10A,10B, and10C housed within valve body302. To achieve the motion needed to operate a plurality of PACV assemblies10housed with valve body302, the actuator piston312utilizes a mechanical actuator stem (not shown) which can provide both linear and rotational motion.FIG.12represents the closed position for the PACV cross assembly300, and the fluid connection end304, fluid connection end306, and fluid connection end308. When the valve is inactive, all fluid circuits are isolated. As shown inFIG.13, to allow flow between fluid connections304and308, the actuator piston312is operated in a linear motion ensuring that second end320contacts and transfers further motion to slidable member70C tip86C on fluid connection308while third partial frustoconical portion312C simultaneously contacts and transfers further motion to slidable member70A tip86A on fluid connection304. To stop flow between fluid connection304and308, actuator piston312forces are sufficiently removed allowing purge source connected to fluid connection308to close slidable member70C and main fluid circuit connected to fluid connection304to close slidable member70A.

FIG.14shows the PACV cross assembly300where fluid connection ends304and306are in the open position. Referring toFIG.14, to allow flow from fluid connection304and306, actuator piston312is operated with rotational motion ensuring that the fourth portion with elliptical sides312D contacts and transfers further motion to slidable member70B tip86B on fluid connection306while simultaneously contacting and transferring motion to slidable member70A tip86A on fluid connection304. To stop flow between fluid connection304and306, actuator piston312forces are sufficiently removed allowing the discharge connected to fluid connection306to close slidable member70B and the main fluid circuit connected to fluid connection304to close slidable member70A.

FIG.15shows the embodiment of the actuator piston312that is particularly useful in a cross-shaped valve body. The first portion312A comprises a generally cylindrical portion at the first end316of the actuator piston312. The first portion312A has an outer surface325with one or more seals324thereon. A piston head connecting feature, such as a recess with internal threads340can be provided at the first end316of the piston312. The second portion312B comprises a stem that connects the first portion312A to the third portion312C. The third portion312C comprises a partial frustoconical portion. One side326of the frustoconical portion is configured (e.g., machined away) so that no portion of the partial frustoconical third portion312C extends beyond one side of the fourth portion312D. The fourth portion312D has a generally elliptical cross-section, and is located at the second end320of the actuator piston312. The fourth portion312D has an outer surface with two sides with a larger radius of curvature and two ends328and330with a smaller radius of curvature. The actuator piston312shown inFIG.15is unique in that the partial frustoconical third portion312C creates clearance during movement, and is used in conjunction with the end of the generally ellipsoidal end fourth portion312D to provide the activating means (by linear motion) for one flow path; and the sides of the generally ellipsoidal fourth portion312D are used alone without the frustoconical third portion312C to provide the activating means (by rotary motion) for another flow path.

Referring now toFIGS.16and17, cutaway and cutaway perspective views of the PACV cross assembly300show a portion of the internal components such as the PACV assemblies10A,10B, and10C; retaining member40; stops50A,50B, and50C; slides70A,70B, and70C; piston312, and the first portion312A, second portion312B, third portion312C, and fourth portion312D thereof.FIG.16shows that each of the connecting ends304,306,308and310can include threaded portions350and an angled sealing surface352such as standard thirty-seven degree, forty-five degree or similar type of flare joint connection. It should be understood that the connecting ends may use other means to seal and connect with a fluid conduit. By way of example and not limitation, clamp means, welding, brazing, bolted flange and/or other mechanical means may be used as one skilled in the art would readily understand.

Referring now toFIG.18, a schematic diagram of a conventional fluid circuit400is depicted. A typical fluid joint406is used to connect valves, fittings, check valves and tubing. The fluid circuit400includes a purge source402with a conventional valve404fluidly connected thereto coupled with a check valve405. A tube410extends from a tee fitting414to connect with a main fluid circuit420coupled with fitting408. Another conventional valve404connects to tee414and fitting412and is fluidly connected to the tube410upstream of the discharge line422. The schematic piping diagram for the conventional fluid circuit400shows that this circuit is composed of multiple fittings shown as408,412, and414. Also, the conventional fluid circuit400has numerous typical fluid joints406.

FIG.19is a schematic diagram of a novel fluid circuit500similar to the fluid circuit400shown inFIG.18. The fluid circuit500comprises a purge source501, main fluid circuit502, discharge line504, and conduits507and511. A typical fluid joint510is used to connect valves, fittings, check valves and tubing. However, the novel fluid circuit500includes PACV tee assemblies200that replace the conventional valves and associated connecting joints. Each of the PACV tee assemblies200comprises an integral joint510that connects the PACV tee assemblies200to conduits within fluid circuit500. The PACV Tee equipped fluid circuit500comprises two fittings shown as508and509. Also, the PACV Tee equipped fluid circuit500has seven joints shown typically as510. This represents a significant reduction in the number of fittings and joints as compared to a conventional fluid circuit400shown inFIG.18.

FIG.20is schematic diagram of a novel fluid circuit600with purge source601, main fluid circuit602, discharge line604, and conduits608and611. However, a PACV cross assembly300replaces the conventional valves and connecting joints. Integral joints610connect the PACV600to conduits in the circuit600. The PACV Cross300has one fitting and four joints. This represents a substantial reduction in the number of fittings and joints as compared to a conventional fluid circuit400.

Various alternative embodiments of the valves, the components used to create valves, the system, and the various fluid circuits that can be created using the insertable devices described herein are possible.

Numerous alternative embodiments of the actuator piston are possible.FIG.21shows an alternative embodiment of an actuator piston700that has a more extensive sealing mechanism. The actuator piston700shown inFIG.21has a similar configuration to the actuator piston shown inFIGS.6and7. The actuator piston700comprises a first cylindrical portion701. A frustoconical second portion with an actuation surface712is formed at the other end of the piston700. A connecting feature710that may include interface threads or the like for an actuation member to connect to the piston700is provided.FIG.21shows that the first portion701of the actuator piston700has a recessed region714around its circumference. The recessed region714forms a shelf716on the sides of the actuator piston700. A plurality of ring-shaped directional seals708having a chevron-shaped cross-sectional configuration rest on top of this shelf716. The directional seals708shown are arranged into two groups708A and708B, each comprising a plurality of seals. The first group708A has the pointed end of their chevron-shaped cross-sections oriented downward inFIG.21, and the second group708B has the pointed end of their chevron-shaped cross-sections oriented upward. The two groups of directional seals708are separated by a spacer706. The directional seals708are held in position by a ring704and a piston clip702.

FIG.22depicts an alternate embodiment of a slidable member800. The slidable member800includes a body802that may be formed of a composite material in some forms to provide a lighter and/or a wear resistant slidable member. A stiffening member804may be positioned within the body802to strengthen the slidable member800. The stiffening member804may be formed from a metal, a metal alloy, a composite, a ceramic, or other similar materials. The body802includes an extended tail806constructed to permit a spring808to engage around a perimeter thereof. A spring groove810is formed between the tail806and an outer portion of the body802. The spring808fits around the extended tail806and into the spring groove810. A cylinder812includes flow channels814formed therein to permit a fluid flow therethrough when the slide is moved to an open position similar to the previous embodiments discussed above.

Referring now toFIGS.23and24, cross-sectional cutaway views of a PACV tee assembly900according to another embodiment is shown. The PACV tee assembly900operates substantially similarly to previous embodiments described above however, the alternate piston700and alternate slidable member800is assembled therewith. A stop1000operates substantially similar to the stop50shown inFIGS.1and3, however the design is modified to include an internal bore1002formed therein to receive insertion of the extended tail806and the spring808of the slidable member800. Cartridge housing920has alternative embodiment taper935that is indicated by deeper recess922.

FIGS.25and26show an alternative cartridge valve assembly20having a stop50as shown inFIG.3Aand a slidable member70with an extended tail. The second portion75C of the slidable member70does not have flow channels therein.

The slidable member70can comprise a single component as shown inFIGS.1,4, and5. In other embodiments, as shown inFIGS.27and28, the slidable member1070may comprise a plurality of separate parts positioned adjacent to each other along the longitudinal centerline L of the cartridge valve assembly10. In this embodiment, the stop50is in the configuration of a relatively thin washer having the ability to retain the spring88.FIGS.27and28show that the parts of the slidable member1070(as well as the interior surface of the cartridge housing20) are also not limited to cylindrical configurations, and may have various different shapes. For instance as shown inFIGS.27and28, the slidable member1070comprises a first component and a second component, wherein the first and second components may be in contact with one another, but are not joined together. In the embodiment shown, the first component1070A has a generally spherical configuration. The second component1070B of the slidable member1070comprises a generally cylindrical member having a first end (closest to the spherical component) with a hemi-spherical configuration and a second end with rounded edges around its circumference. Thus, the first portion of slide, intermediate portion and second portion of slidable member previously described are located on different components that are in contact with one another. The housing20comprises an interior surface with: a first section having a cross section which has channels therein; a second section32that provides a curved sealing surface; and a third section that has channels therein. In order to keep the second component1070B of the slidable member1070from falling out the end24of the housing, during assembly the technician would need to properly orient and insert the first cartridge assembly in the body (Tee/Cross), then insert the actuator piston in the body, and then insert the final cartridge assembly. Once fully assembled, the complete valve body assembly would retain all devices in place.

FIGS.29and30show an alternative actuator piston assembly. The actuator piston1090inFIGS.29and30has different portions comprising the actuator piston that are separated, rather than being joined together as in the previous embodiments. For example, in the actuator piston assembly1120, the actuator piston1090may comprise a piston housing1122that contains a first (or “inner”) piston component1090A and a second outer piston component (or “activating component”)1090B. The first or inner piston component1090A may have several possible configurations, provided that its contact surface (that is, the portion of the first piston component that is closest to, and interfaces with, the activating component)1090B is configured to protrude through a central opening in the piston housing1122so that it can push the activating component1090B in order to move the activating component1090B. The first piston component1090A may, for example, be spherical, or cylindrical with a hemi-spherical end. The activating component1090B may also have several possible configurations including, but not limited to frustoconical and disk-shaped. In the embodiment shown the inner piston component1090A is spherical and the activating component1090B is disk-shaped. The disk-shaped activating component1090B is oriented so that the flat sides of the disk are parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the piston housing. This combination of configurations provides a curvilinear contact surfaces between the inner piston component and the activating component. The components of the actuator piston are held in place by a divider wall1132having an opening1134in the center that allows contact between the spherical piston component1090A and the disk-shaped, activating component1090B.FIG.31shows that the divider wall1132may have a flat side facing the spherical piston component1090A, and a spherical cup-shaped side facing the disk-shaped, activating component1090B. The disk-shaped, activating component1090B may be held in place in the piston housing1122upon assembly and insertion of these components into a valve body. Alternatively, the activating component1090B may be joined to the inner piston component1090A by a spring.

FIGS.32-40are non-limiting examples showing that the PACV Tee and cross components can act as multiple sets of valves encased within a single valve body. Each cartridge valve assembly has the ability to be normally closed by the incoming or outgoing fluid pressure. The cartridge valve assemblies can function as both a valve when the activated by an actuator piston, and as a passive check valve when deactivated when no force is applied to the slidable member by the actuator piston. In some cases, the actuation piston can be removed. This compaction of component functionality significantly reduces the complexity, the number of fittings and joints associated with a typical fluid circuit.

FIG.32shows a PACV Tee configuration where the cartridge valve assemblies10A and10B are disposed within the valve body and the actuation piston contacts the two slidable members of the cartridge valve assemblies, and fluid flows through both PACV's. This is similar to the embodiment shown inFIG.10. (The rectangular symbol on top of the cartridge valve assemblies is a graphical symbol for an actuator device.)

FIG.33shows a PACV Tee configuration where one PACV10A is opened with the actuation piston and upon actuation, the other PACV10B has sufficient differential pressure to open and function as a passive check valve when actuation piston force is removed from the first PACV slidable member. This requires a truncated frustoconical and mechanical coupling actuator or other device that keeps the actuation piston in alignment.

FIG.34shows a PACV Tee configuration where two PACV's10A and10B are installed but the actuation piston is removed and replaced with a connection to a fluid supply valve (not shown). When the fluid supply valve is opened, and the PACV has sufficient pressure differential to operate, fluid will flow across the branch PACV (which, with the piston removed may be considered to be a passive PACV). When the fluid supply valve is closed, the pressure decays and PACV spring force closes the slidable members like a passive check valve.

FIG.35shows a PACV Tee configuration where one PACV10is installed but the actuation piston is removed and fluid supply valve (not shown) delivers sufficient pressure differential to have the PACV act as a passive check valve.

FIG.36shows a PACV Tee configuration where one PACV10is installed and where actuation piston contacts the one slidable member and fluid flows through the single PACV.

FIG.37shows a PACV cross configuration where the dual actuation piston capable of both rotary and linear motion opens a combination of PACV's. With linear motion, the first PACV10A and one of the branch PACV's10B are actuated and fluid flows through the path which is actuated open. With rotary motion, the two branch PACV's10B and10C are actuated open and fluid flows through this path. PACV spring forces and pressure differential assist keep the inactive PACV10C path closed.

FIG.38shows a PACV cross configuration where the dual actuation piston uses either rotary or linear motion to contact the first PACV10A and one of the branch PACV's10B and fluid flows through the path which is actuated open. The remaining branch PACV10C using spring force and pressure differential acts as a passive check valve device.

FIG.39shows a PACV cross configuration where the first PACV10A is activated by linear or rotary motion and both branch PACV's10B and10C use spring force and pressure differential to act as passive check valve devices.

FIG.40shows a PACV cross configuration where three PACV's10A,10B, and10C are installed in the branches of the cross but the actuation piston is removed and replaced with a connection to a fluid supply valve (not shown). When fluid supply valve is opened, and PACV has sufficient pressure differential to operate flow will occur across the branch PACV. When the fluid supply valve is closed, the pressure decays and PACV spring force closes the slidable members of the cartridge valve assemblies10A,10B, and10C so that they perform like passive check valves.

The various embodiments and typical operational uses as shown above and described herein are not representative of all possibilities since additional fluid control, valve working fluid (hydraulic or pneumatic) or actuation mechanisms and other fluid circuitry layouts could benefit from inclusion of the piston activated cartridge valves.

The valves and components thereof described herein can be made in any suitable manner. The body of the PACV is a typical fluid fitting with at least one branch connection. The fitting end connections can be flared, threaded (FIG.16), flanged or the like. The fitting ends of the branches in which the PACV internals and actuator piston are disposed may require machining of grooves to limit how far the components can be inserted into the fitting ends) using known techniques.

The components of the PACV can be made of any suitable materials. The materials will depend upon the use of the PACV. Suitable materials for various uses include, but are not limited to: ferrous metals such as carbon steel (CS), galvanized steel, impact-tested carbon steel (ITCS), low-temperature carbon steel (LTCS), stainless steel, malleable iron, chrome-molybdenum (alloy) steel; and non-ferrous metals such as: copper, inconel, incoloy, cupronickel, and titanium; and non-metallic materials such as: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). All metallic and/or non-metallic material used in PACV should be compatible with the fluid that flows therethrough.

The parts of the PACV including the cartridge housing, the slidable member, the stop, and the actuator piston may be manufactured using conventional techniques such as casting, machining, and/or additive manufacturing processes. The cartridge housing may have accommodations formed therein for installation of slidable member and stop. The slidable member may be made from any suitable material having sufficient strength to withstand the sealing and operation by actuator piston.

The valves, the components used to create the valves, the system, and the various fluid circuits that can be created using the insertable devices described herein can provide a number of advantages. It should be understood, however, that these advantages need not be required unless they are set forth in the appended claims.

The PACV system of insertable components can be used with existing valve bodies, and does not require the construction of new valve bodies. The PACV is scalable to any size for different size valve bodies. The PACV components can be inserted into any Tee, Cross or union type fitting connections for which is adaptable and configurable for any type, hub, flange or flare type piping or tubing end connection. The PACV supports line replaceable unit maintenance if worn or damaged without entire loss of the valve body. The PACV internal components can be swapped out quickly if worn out or damaged, reducing system downtime.

The PACV can allow multi-directional flow across at least two openings, and allow multi-directional isolation across any opening. The PACV can simultaneously provide check valve functionality and valve functionality. The cartridge assembly housings may be reversible within the fitting to provide different flow control characteristics.

The PACV actuator piston is conformable and retainable within the hub, flange or flare fitting connection, can operate multiple controllable flow elements contained within the valve body. The PACV actuator piston is a tight tolerance device that is capable of linear and/or rotational motion, and is designed to minimize leaks.

A plurality of PACV's assemblies can be operated with single actuator (or actuating force), such as a solenoid operated valve (SOV) actuator. The PACV actuator mechanism or pressure source can be decoupled from the actuator piston allowing for the remoting of the mechanism from the valve body. The PACV decoupled actuator mechanism or pressure source can actuate multiple PACV's which could be spread across different fluid circuits.

The PACV simultaneously allows for flow through and retention of, the reversible connection which houses the sealing and flow through device. The PACV is adaptable for both open/close and throttle control operational capability. Throttle control flow rate provides proportional control of the flow rate depending on how much the slidable member is opened.

The PACV reduces complexity of systems and therefore reduces recurring and non-recurring costs. The PACV requires minimal modifications and a minimum number of parts to produce, has few moving parts and can be made with less precision lowering production cost. The PACV can be used in typical fluid fittings, such as tees and crosses, thereby increasing adoption across multiple industries further reducing costs. The PACV reduces the number of fluid fittings required in comparison to prior fluid circuits. The PACV also reduces the use of welding and reduces the number of joints.

The term “joined”, as used herein, encompasses configurations in which an element is directly secured to another element by affixing the element directly to the other element; configurations in which the element is indirectly secured to the other element by affixing the element to intermediate member(s) which in turn are affixed to the other element; and configurations in which one element is integral with another element, i.e., one element is essentially part of the other element. The term “joined” includes both those configurations in which an element is temporarily joined to another element, or in which an element is permanently joined to another element.

While the present invention has been illustrated by a description of one or more embodiments thereof and while these embodiments have been described in considerable detail, they are not intended to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and method, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the scope of the general inventive concept.