Fluid control system
OwnerGerald T. Sorensoninventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Fluid control systems for controlling machine tool operations or other automated mechanical devices. An unlimited number of multiple function systems can be assembled from a basic simple function system employing two-way relay valves which, in their normally blocked state, have a "controlled leakage" venting feature effective to prevent any leakage to outlet and possible system malfunction. This controlled leakage venting feature is constructed so that the leakage path is never exposed to line pressure when a valve changes state from blocked to passing or vice-versa. Fluid memory can also be built in the system. Simple relay valves, limit valves, pressure control relay valves, time delay relay valves and other variations in spool and slide form provide controlled leakage.
Claims20
A normally blocked fluid control valve, comprising:
- a. a valve body having an inlet port and an outlet port formed in a surface, and an unconstricted opening to exhaust means communicating with said surface, and
- b. a valve member movable relative to said surface and including passage means for placing said inlet and outlet ports in fluid communication with each other in one position of said valve member relative to said body and for blocking fluid communication between said ports in another position of said valve member relative to said body,
- c. said unconstricted opening to exhaust means communicating with said surface at a distance from said inlet port which is less than the length of any leakage path between said inlet and outlet ports,
- d. said unconstricted opening to exhaust means communicating with said surface at a location where said passage means cannot place said opening into fluid communication with said inlet port when said valve member changes positions.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.