Inventors:
David L. Baldwin - Denver CO
Steven D. Kaplan - Littleton CO
Assignee:
Mechanical Systems Analysis, Inc. - Littleton CO
International Classification:
F16K 3106, F16K 11044
Abstract:
Electromagnetic fluid control valves disclosed have a valve body with at least two ports through which a fluid is passed in flowing therethrough with at least one port being closable. Electromagnetic actuating means includes an elongated magnetic core with spaced, opposed first and second leg portions and an intermediate connecting leg portion. One of the first and second leg portions terminates in an end face. A coil wound on the core produces magnetic flux therein. An armature of minimum mass spans the end portions of the first and second leg portions of the core and provides a face opposite the end face of the core to define an open unobstructed air gap. A spring bias is employed to maintain the air gap at its maximum length when the valve is in the deenergized state. The length of the air gap is sized in relation to the diameter of the closable port to maximize the force across the air gap and minimize the travel distance of the armature, thus facilitating maximum switching speed without restricting fluid flow when in the open-port position.