2-way collar and O-ring seal assembly

Fluid handling – Systems – Multi-way valve unit

Reexamination Certificate

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Reexamination Certificate

active

06209582

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a control valve assembly and more particularly to an isolation valve that requires a two-way seal.
2. Discussion of the Art
One common use of an isolation valve is to provide a pneumatic backup in the event of an electronics failure associated with an electronic braking system (EBS). The isolation valve includes first and second seal assemblies on a movable piston that alternately and selectively isolate supply pressure to an outlet or delivery port from either a traditional pneumatic braking system or the electronic braking system. Typically, the two supply ports that communicate with a valve chamber are axially spaced apart. Consequently, movement of the piston between first and second positions alternately isolates one of the supplies from the delivery port.
An insert and bonded rubber sealing element is commonly used on the piston to engage the valve seat associated with the first and second positions of the piston. That is, opposite faces of the insert have an elastomer or rubber material integrally bonded thereon. Although an effective seal is provided, the insert and bonded rubber sealing element is a relatively expensive item. Thus, a need exists for a suitable substitute that provides effective isolation, i.e., two-way seals, at a significantly reduced manufacturing cost.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention overcomes the problems associated with the prior art arrangements and provides an effective, economical assembly.
According to a preferred embodiment, a valve housing has a chamber with first, second, and third ports in communication therewith. A piston is received in the chamber and moves between first and second positions, providing selective communication between the first and third ports or between the second and third ports. A seal assembly on the piston includes a retaining ring that cooperates with first and second collars, and first and second seal members mounted on the piston.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the retaining ring is disposed between the collars and dimensioned for abutting engagement therewith and the collars maintain the seal members in place on the piston.
According to another aspect of the invention, the retaining ring is a split ring, while the first and second collars are complete annuli, wherein the retaining ring has an internal diameter less than an inner diameter of the first and second collars.
According to a preferred method of installation, a first seal member is received in a first groove on the piston. Subsequently, a first collar and then the retaining ring are advanced on the piston. A second seal member is received in a second groove. A second collar is subsequently positioned in place abutting the retaining ring previously secured to the piston.
A further aspect of the method of assembly includes the step of installing the second seal member prior to installing the second collar.
A primary benefit of the invention resides in the substantially reduced costs to manufacture the valve assembly.
Another benefit of the invention resides in the effective operation of the valve assembly.
Still another benefit of the invention resides in the ease with which the valve is assembled without any loss in valve performance.


REFERENCES:
patent: 3126915 (1964-03-01), Hunt
patent: 3183933 (1965-05-01), Whitlock
patent: 5080133 (1992-01-01), Johnson et al.

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