Devices and method for regulating cooler flow through automotive transmissions
AssigneeSuperior Transmission Parts, Inc.
InventorDean Mason
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Methods and valves for providing a continuous flow of cooler fluid in a fluid circuit of a thermal control system between a cooler and automotive transmission such that free flow of cooler fluid between the cooler and transmission exists at vehicle start-up. Fluid flow to and from the cooler is bypassed in case of pressure increases in cooler lines or pressure differentials, for example cause by a blockage in the cooler, such that the cooler fluid flow bypasses the cooler and continues in the fluid circuit through a thermal element of the thermal control system and back to the transmission.
Claims8
A thermal bypass valve, comprising:
- a cylindrical blocker valve having a groove extending around a circumference of the blocker valve and along a length of the blocker valve, the groove defining an upper valve portion and a lower valve portion;
- a relief valve having a uniformly cylindrical body, a cylindrical cavity extending within and along a partial length of the relief valve, wherein the cylindrical cavity is open at a free end of the relief valve, and a cylindrical member extending from the relief valve along an end of the relief valve opposite the free end, wherein the cylindrical member has a smaller diameter than the relief valve;
- and
- a spring movable between an expanded position and a compressed configuration;
- wherein the cylindrical member contacts an outer planar surface of the free end of the upper valve portion of the cylindrical blocker valve with the spring in the expanded position, and
- wherein the thermal bypass valve is configured to insert into an oil pump of an automotive transmission.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.