WO2008011886A1 - Bi-stable solenoid valve - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a solenoid valve (1) having a rocker-type, at least partially soft, magnetic valve member (24). Located above the valve member (24) is an electric magnet device, which can generate a magnetic field serving for the switching of the valve member. A three-pole permanent magnetic holding plate extends between the electric magnet device (38) and the valve member (24), by means of which the valve member is magnetically held in each of its two possible switching positions. This results in a compact, bi-stable solenoid valve having low energy consumption.

Description

 July 11, 2006

Bistable solenoid valve

The invention relates to a solenoid valve, having a valve housing having a vertical axis, in which an elongated rocker-shaped valve element extending transversely to the vertical axis and pivotably mounted for switching between two switch positions in a pivot bearing region 5 is arranged, which has at least partially soft magnetic properties and the two projecting in opposite directions of the pivot bearing portion valve member arms, of which at least one forms a closure arm, lo in the direction of the vertical axis below the valve member to be controlled by him a valve port muzzle, which he can release or close according to the respective assumed switching position, and with a arranged in the direction of the vertical axis above the valve member, a i5 coil assembly having elongated electromagnet means which is activated to at least one of the pivoting of the valve member causes generating magnetic field.

A known from DE 298 23 478 Ul known solenoid valve of this type includes a pivotally mounted, rocker-shaped valve

2o member, below which there are two valve channel mouths that can release and close it alternately in its two possible switching positions. By a spring means it is biased in a first switching position, from which it by the magnetic field of an activated electromag-

25 neteinrichtung is pivotable in a second switching position. The electromagnet device sits on the valve Nalmündungen opposite longitudinal side of the valve member and is aligned in the height direction of the valve housing.

In the known solenoid valve, a permanent activation of the solenoid device is required for holding the valve member in the second switching position. This is associated with a relatively high energy consumption and also often unwanted heat development.

It is the object of the present invention to provide a solenoid valve which, with its compact dimensions, requires little electrical energy for its operation.

To solve this problem, it is provided that the electromagnetic device is arranged with lying transversely to the vertical axis of the longitudinal axis in a horizontal orientation above the valve member, and that between the Elektromagnetein- direction and the valve member is a longitudinally extending these components transverse to the vertical axis, in their Is arranged longitudinally three-pole permanent magnetic holding plate whose deviating in the polarization of its two outer poles center pole the pivot bearing portion of the valve -

20 member is associated and under the cooperation of the valve member is held releasably in its two switching positions each by magnetic force.

Usually, the solenoid valve is operated with an orientation in which the vertical axis is vertical. However, due to the prevailing magnetic forces, operation of the solenoid valve with any spatial orientation is usually possible.

Due to the like the valve member aligned transversely to the vertical axis of the electromagnet device, the height of Mag Mag- netventils be kept very low in the direction of the vertical axis. The permanent magnetic holding plate placed between the electromagnetic device and the valve member allows a bistable switching function by providing permanent magnetic forces by means of which the valve member is held in both switching positions even without activated electromagnet means. An activation of the electromagnetic device is only necessary to bring about the actual switching process. Thus, the solenoid valve can be operated in conjunction with compact dimensions extremely energy-efficient.

A bistable valve is already known from EP 0 915 277 A2, in which the pivotable valve member can be fixed in the two possible switching positions by means of a permanent magnet. However, the permanent magnet is here in the axial extension of the valve member and is formed as a U-shaped, the end portion of the valve member encompassing body. In addition, the required for the switching of the valve member actuating force is not caused electromagnetically but by a piezoelectric blade, which requires a mechanical connection, the production of which is not without problems.

EP 0 197 391 B2 discloses an electromagnetic relay with a bistable contact element. The bistability is achieved by arranging a polarized holding plate between the contact element and an electromagnet device. Such relays are used for switching electrical currents, a use in solenoid valves is not provided.

Advantageous developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims. If only one of the valve member arms is designed as a locking arm, the solenoid valve can be used as a bistable 2/2-way valve. A use as bistable 3/2-way valve is feasible if both valve member arms each form a closure arm, which is opposite to a valve port to be controlled. In the two switching positions of the valve member, the two valve channel openings in this case can be alternately released or closed in opposite directions.

If there are two valve channel openings to be controlled, these are expediently located in a common mouth plane perpendicular to the vertical axis. This also favors compliance with minimum dimensions in the direction of the vertical axis.

An optimal flow through the valve member containing the valve chamber by the fluid to be controlled is ensured when the valve channel mouths having housing bottom of the valve housing is spaced from the valve member and the valve member floats support over this housing bottom. As a result, there are no flow obstacles in the flow path of the fluid.

In order to optimize the sealing of the at least one valve channel orifice, the closure arm associated therewith is expediently provided with a sealing plate having rubber-elastic properties.

At the valve housing can be dispensed with special, the pivot bearing defining measures when the valve member is supported with its pivot bearing portion directly to the adjacent holding plate pivotally. In this way, the valve member is decoupled in its pivoting movement from the valve housing, resulting in a certain insensitivity to Provides manufacturing and assembly tolerances and favors a cost-effective production of the solenoid valve.

The valve channel orifice to be controlled, in the longitudinal direction of the valve member, is expediently located in an intermediate region between the pivot bearing region and the outer end portion of the respective closure arm which cooperates with the outer poles of the retaining plate. This results in a favorable leverage, with the result that the shutter arm is pressed against its associated valve port opening when taking its closed position with high closing force. Thus, a secure shut-off is ensured even at high fluid pressures.

An amplification of the closing force can be effected if at least one valve member arm additionally carries a permanent magnet force amplifying element. If this valve member arm is pivoted to the associated outer pole of the holding plate, the force-amplifying element therefore amplifies the magnetic holding force and thus intensifies prestressing of the opposing closure arm into the closed position.

In general, it will suffice to provide only that valve member arm with a permanent magnetic force amplifying member facing a shutter arm which serves to control a valve port orifice associated with a valve passage through which a pressurized fluid is supplied during operation.

The force-amplifying element is preferably seated in an area of the valve member arm opposite an outer pole of the retaining plate. It can in particular on the holding plate be arranged opposite bottom of the valve member arm, where sufficient space is available from home.

The solenoid valve can be equipped in a simple manner with means by which at least one switching position of the valve member is detectable and preferably also displayable. For this purpose, the valve member may comprise at least one moving switch contact element during pivoting, which is associated with a valve housing fixed counter contact element and depending on the switching position of the valve member either electrically applied to this mating contact element or is separated from this mating contact element. In this way, a switching position signal causing circuit can either be closed or interrupted.

As a switching position signal, for example, a simple electrical signal can be caused, which is electronically processed within the solenoid valve or externally. There is also the advantageous possibility of equipping the solenoid valve with at least one luminous element, for example an LED, which emits a light signal when the circuit is closed. Both switching positions can each be assigned a separate lighting element.

The components which form the at least one circuit for the switching position indicator are expediently arranged at least partially on a carrier board which is accommodated in the valve housing with a platinum plane which is at right angles to the vertical axis. The carrier board is preferably located on the side opposite the valve member in the direction of the vertical axis of the electromagnetic device. In this way, it can easily be accommodated in a receiving chamber, which is shielded by the valve chamber and also containing the fluid to be controlled valve chamber. The solenoid valve may also be equipped with a pressure sensor which detects the fluid pressure prevailing in the valve chamber receiving the valve member. This provides another way to monitor the valve function.

Belonging to the solenoid device coil assembly may have a single coil which is energized to cause the two opposite pivoting movements of the valve member with different polarization. Alternatively, however, it is also possible to provide two separate coils, which are alternately activated and deactivated to switch over the valve member in opposite directions.

All electrical signals that are fed into the solenoid valve or output from the solenoid valve can be transmitted, for example, via a fixed multi-pin fixed to the housing. Alternatively, an immediately outgoing electrical cable could be provided and also a wireless signal transmission would be conceivable.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this show:

1 shows a preferred first design of the solenoid valve according to the invention in a perspective view,

2 shows the solenoid valve of Figure 1 in a longitudinal section approximately along section line II-II,

3 shows a cross section through the solenoid valve approximately along section line III-III of Figure 2, FIG. 4 shows a further longitudinal section through the magnetic valve in a sectional plane IV-IV from FIG. 3, which is perpendicular to the vertical axis;

FIG. 5 shows a further longitudinal section through the solenoid valve in a further sectional plane V-V from FIG. 2 offset from the sectional plane according to FIG. 4 in the direction of the vertical axis

Figure 6 in a sectional view corresponding to Figure 2 a section of the solenoid valve, wherein the valve member assumes its other switching position.

The designated in its entirety by reference numeral 1 solenoid valve is used to control fluid flows, and it is particularly suitable for operation with compressed air. However, it can also be used in conjunction with other gases or to control liquids.

The solenoid valve 1 comprises a valve housing 2 which functions as an outer shell and preferably has a cuboidal outer shape. The valve housing 2 has a vertical axis 3, a longitudinal axis 4 and a transverse axis 5, which run perpendicular to one another in accordance with a Cartesian coordinate system.

The orientation data used here, such as "top", "bottom", "above", "below", etc., refer to the axial direction of the vertical axis 3 and the corresponding orientation of the individual valve components. Such orientation data are intended to simplify the explanation, but do not represent a restriction with regard to the orientation of the solenoid valve 1 in practical use. It is thus possible in particular to operate the solenoid valve 1 such that its underside faces sideways or upwards. The lower outer surface of the valve housing 2 forms a connection surface 6. There, fluid channels, which supply and discharge the fluid to be controlled, can be connected to the valve housing 2. These fluid channels are, for example, internal channels of a connection plate to which the solenoid valve 1 can be attached. However, it may also be the channels of fluid lines, in particular fluid hoses, which can be fixed in the region of the connection surface 6 on the solenoid valve 1.

For the installation of a connection plate, the valve housing 2 can have protruding fastening straps 7 or other fastening means.

The connection surface 6 is located on a lower end wall 8 of the valve housing 2. It defines downwardly a valve chamber 12 located in the interior of the valve housing 2, into which open, each with a first or second valve channel opening 13, 14 to be controlled. a first and second valve channel 15, 16, which pass through the lower end wall 8 and the other end to the connection surface 6 for the connection of the already mentioned external fluid channels.

The two aforementioned valve channel mouths 13, 14 are arranged spaced from one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis 4, as can be clearly seen from the dot-dashed representation in FIG.

It is also advantageous if the mentioned Ventilkanalmün- fertilize 13, 14 lie in a common, designated as the orifice plane 17, which is perpendicular to the vertical axis 3.

The valve channel openings 13, 14 to be controlled are expediently surrounded in each case by a raised valve seat 18. Expediently, the two valve channel openings 13, 14 to be controlled are arranged in the direction of the longitudinal axis 4 at the same distance on both sides of and beyond the vertical axis 3. Between these two valve channel openings 13, 14 is located on the inner surface of the lower end wall 8 an uncontrolled third valve port opening 22, which belongs to a the lower end wall 8 also to the connection surface 6 passing through third valve channel 23. The third valve port opening 22 is preferably located on the vertical axis 3. However, in principle, a different placement would be possible.

In the direction of the vertical axis 3 at a distance from the lower end wall 8, a valve member 24 serving to control the first and second valve channel mouth 13, 14 is received in the valve chamber 12. The valve member 24 has a longitudinal shape and extends transversely to the vertical axis 3 substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axis 4. In this way, it simultaneously engages over the first and second valve port mouth 13, 14 and preferably also the third valve port mouth 22.

The valve element 24, which has a generally substantially plate-shaped design, preferably has a rocker-like design and can be pivoted in the valve housing 2 about a pivot axis 25 parallel to the transverse axis 5. This pivot axis 25 is assigned to a longitudinally central region of the valve member 24, designated as a pivot bearing region 26, from which a first and a second valve member arm 27, 28 protrude in diametrically opposite directions. In this case, the first valve member arm 27 projects beyond the first valve channel opening 13 to be controlled and the second valve member arm 28 extends beyond the second valve channel opening 14 to be controlled. Due to its pivotal mounting, the valve member 24 can be pivoted by executing a direction indicated by a double arrow pivoting movement 32 between two switching positions. In the first switch position 5 apparent from FIG. 2, the first valve channel opening 13 to be controlled is closed by the first valve member arm 27 and at the same time the second valve channel opening 14 to be controlled is released. In the opposite second switching position apparent from FIG. 6, there is a reverse constellation.

The two valve member arms 27, 28 thus each form a first or second closure arm 33, 34 cooperating with the respectively associated first and second valve channel mouths 13, 14. Each closure arm 33, 34 lies in the closed position on the valve seat 18 of the first or second closure arm 33 i5 second valve port mouth 13, 14 and is lifted in the open position of this.

In order to achieve a very high-quality sealing quality, the closure portion 35 of the closure arm in question cooperates with a valve channel mouth 13, 14 to be controlled

20 33, 34 preferably formed by a rubber-elastic properties possessing sealing plate 36. Conveniently, the valve member 24 includes a the two valve member arms 27, 28 defining rigid body 37, the two at its lower end wall 8 facing bottom

25 sealing plates 36 carries. The base body 37 is in particular plate-shaped or bar-shaped with a linear extension.

With the described configuration, the solenoid valve can be operated as a 3/2 way valve. Here, the first 3o valve channel 15 forms a feed channel, via which originates from a pressure source P pressure medium in the solenoid valve. 1 is fed. The second valve channel 16 forms a connectable to the atmosphere R discharge channel, which is a vent channel in pneumatic application. Finally, the third valve channel 23 is a working channel which can be connected to a consumer A to be activated. Thus, according to the selected switching position of the valve member 24 of the working channel 23 can be selectively connected to the feed channel 15 or the discharge channel 16, with simultaneous separation from the other channel.

The solenoid valve 1 can also be designed as a 2/2 way valve. In this case, the second valve port to be controlled 14 is missing and the second valve member arm 28 does not take over a closing function. Only the first valve member arm 27 is then designed as a closure arm, which cooperates with the opposite first valve channel orifice 13 to be controlled in order to selectively separate or connect the first valve channel 15 to the still existing, non-controllable valve channel 23.

In all cases, the fluid connection between the various channels takes place via the valve chamber 12.

For generating the pivoting movement 32 of the valve member 24, an electromagnetic device 38 arranged above the valve member 24, that is to say on the longitudinal side of the valve member 24 opposite the valve channel openings 13, 14, is responsible. This has an elongated shape and is placed so that its longitudinal axis 42 transversely and in particular perpendicular to the vertical axis 3, in particular rectified with the longitudinal axis 4. Thus, it can be said that the solenoid device 38 and the elongated valve member 24 are arranged one above the other. Due to the practically horizontal arrangement of the electromagnetic device 38 results in the direction of the vertical axis 3 only very small dimensions of the solenoid valve. 1

The electromagnet device 38 has an electrical coil arrangement 43 which is coaxial with the longitudinal axis 42 and consists of a single coil in the exemplary embodiment shown. Via coil connection contacts 44a, 44b, an excitation voltage can be applied to the coil arrangement 43. For drawing reasons, the second Spulenanschluss- contact 44b is shown in Figure 5 at a different, than the actual location. In fact, it is located at the position indicated by reference numeral 44b ^{1 in} FIG.

The electromagnet device 38 further includes a stationary, soft-magnetic magnetic core 45 passing through the coil arrangement. The latter protrudes on both sides with one end section 46 out of the coil arrangement 43, these end sections 46 preferably being angled downwards, in the direction of the valve element 24.

When the coil arrangement 43 is excited, a magnetic field is produced which has a different polarization at the two end sections 46 of the magnetic core 45. The coil assembly 43 is operable to change the polarization of the end portions 46. This is done either by. Reversal of the single coil or by using a Spulenanord- tion 43, which has two coils which are excitable separately for generating opposite magnetic fields. In such a case, the number of coil terminal contacts increases.

The valve member 24 is at least partially made of a soft magnetic material, such as iron. Thereby it speaks to the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic device 38. Preferably, the entire base body 37 has soft magnetic properties.

According to the direction of the magnetic field generated by the coil assembly 43 5 either one or the other valve member arm 27, 28 is attracted in the axial direction of the vertical axis 3 and thus displaced towards the electromagnetic device 38. This results in the already described pivoting movement 32 of the entire valve member 24th

lo To obtain a bistable functionality, the solenoid valve 1 further includes a permanent magnetic retaining plate 47 which is arranged valve housing fixed in the direction of the vertical axis 3 between the solenoid device 38 and the valve member 24. It extends along the abovementioned components 38, 24, and in this case transversely and in particular at right angles to the vertical axis 3. Expediently, its longitudinal axis runs parallel to that (42) of the electromagnetic device 38.

The main expansion plane of the holding plate 47 extends preferably at right angles to the vertical axis 3.

The term "holding plate" is to be understood in a broader sense. As can be seen from FIG. 2, in particular no rectangular longitudinal section contour is required. This component can also be structured, for example, in the form of a bar or bar. Notwithstanding the one-piece design, the holding plate 47 can be composed of moreover of several elements, which need not all be permanent magnetic nature. Relevant is that the holding plate 47 has a total of permanent magnetic properties, in such a way that a three-pole configuration is present, with longitudinally successive magnetic poles.

As a result of this polarization of the retaining plate 47, a center pole 48 formed in the middle region in the exemplary embodiment as the north pole "N" is flanked on both sides by a respective outer pole 49, 50 formed in the exemplary embodiment as a south pole "S". The two outer poles 49, 50 are therefore of the same polarity and differ in their polarity from the center pole 48. It is understood that, to the contrary, a permutation of the north pole and the south pole is possible.

Holding plate 47 and valve member 24 are geometrically formed on the sides facing each other such that the pivoting movement of the valve member 24 is ensured. This is preferably achieved in that the holding plate 47 on its valve member 24 facing bottom has a starting from the center pole 48 in the direction of the outer poles 49, 50 each inclined, obliquely outward and upward course. These inclined surfaces may form abutment surfaces 54 against which the momentarily upwardly pivoted valve member arm 27, 28 may rest. However, this concern is not mandatory. There may also be a minimum air gap resulting from the fact that the pivoting is limited by a contact between a locking arm 33, 34 and the valve seat 18 associated therewith.

The permanent magnetic holding plate 47, in cooperation with the wholly or partially soft-magnetic valve member 24, causes the valve member arm 27 or 28 currently pivoted upwards against the holding plate 47 to be held magnetically in this position. Due to the lower here Air gap is a higher magnetic attraction force than the opposite valve member arm, which is currently pivoted away from the support plate 47 down.

Thus, the valve member 24 is releasably retained in each of its two switching positions under the cooperation of the holding plate 27 by magnetic force. It requires no additional, mechanically acting support measure, such as springs. Since the magnetic field generating the holding force results from a permanent magnet, it also requires no electrical energy to generate the holding force.

The permanent magnetic holding plate 47 is located in the region of its outer poles 49, 50 expediently directly to the adjacent end portions 46 of the magnetic core 45 at. A firm connection, for example by gluing is possible.

To switch to the other switching position, only the electromagnetic device 38 is to be activated by correspondingly polarized energization of the coil assembly 43 for a short time. The resulting magnetic field superimposed on the magnetic fields of the holding plate 47 and amplifies acting on the weggeschwenkten of the holding plate 47 valve member arm

Magnetic force to an extent that the force acting on the opposite valve member arm magnetic holding forces are exceeded and the valve member 24 changes to the other, then again stable switching position.

Conveniently, the valve member 24 is suspended on the valve housing 2 via a resilient support structure 55. By way of example, this support structure 55 has two suspension sections 56 projecting longitudinally in the direction of the transverse axis 5 via the valve member 24, which are fixed in the housing or fixed in some other way. Overall, the load structure 55 such as a soft torsion spring, which fixes the valve member 24, without restricting the pivoting movement. Alternatively, however, it would also be possible to mount the valve member 24 via physical, rotatable axle elements on the valve body.

A defined pivoting movement is preferably ensured by virtue of the fact that the valve member 24 with its pivot bearing region 26 is supported pivotably directly on the adjacent retaining plate 47. For example, the valve 24 has member 24 in the pivot bearing portion 26 via an upwardly projecting bearing projection which dips into a notch-like depression on the opposite underside of the retaining plate 47. The supporting contact between valve member 24 and retaining plate 47 results from the resilient support structure 55 and / or from the magnetic holding forces generated by the retaining plate 47.

By the described type of pivotal mounting is achieved that the valve member 24 floats on the lower end wall 8, without being supported on this. Thus, the region of the valve chamber 12 located between the valve member 24 and the lower end wall 8 can be made available without restriction to the pressure medium flowing over between the valve channels. This guarantees a high flow rate with excellent efficiency.

It is advantageous if the closure portions 35 are closer to the pivot bearing portion 26 than the outer poles 49, 50. In other words, in this case, the closure portions 35 are in the region between the center pole 48 and a respective outer pole 49, 50 assigned

30 neten closure arm 33, 34. Since the outer poles 49, 50 with the axially outside of the closure portions 35 lying perma- cooperate nentmagnetischen end portions 57, thus the introduction of the magnetic holding force takes place in the valve member 24 in a region which is spaced from the pivot bearing portion 26 farther than the other side closure portion 35, one obtains an advantageous leverage, the particularly high closing force between closure portion 35 and associated valve seat 18 causes.

In practice, cases may occur in which the fluid pressure prevailing in the first valve channel 15 acting as a feed channel is particularly high. Here, a particularly high closing force is required in order to ensure reliable shut-off of the associated first valve channel orifice 13. However, the required power gain can be easily achieved in that the opposite second Ventilgliedarm 28 with a permanent magnetic

Power amplification element 58 is fitted. Its magnetic force acts in the swiveled state to the holding plate 47 in addition to the magnetic holding force generated by the holding plate 47. In this case, however, it requires a somewhat increased magnetic force of the solenoid device 38 to switch the valve member 24 in the other switching position.

The force amplifying element 58 is located in particular in the region of the outer pole 50. It may be attached to the associated end section 57 of the second valve member arm 28. It may be attached to the underside of the respective valve member arm 28 facing away from the retaining plate 47, for example by gluing or another cohesive connection ,

The force-amplifying element 58 is preferably polarized in the axial direction of the vertical axis 3. This corresponds to the overhead polarization, in particular the polarization of the associated outer pole 50.

It is understood that a force-enhancing element 58 of the type described can be provided on both valve member arms 27, 28 as needed.

Instead of putting the power amplifying element 58 on the valve member 24, it may also be integrated in this. It may also be formed by a partially magnetized portion of the valve member 24.

All the components described so far are located in an interior space 59 of the valve housing 2. Specifically, these components are placed in a lower subspace of this inner space 59, which also includes the valve chamber 12 and the fluid from a receiving chamber 62 to be explained above is delimited, which is also formed by a subspace of the interior 59. The fluid-tight partitioning takes place by means of a partition wall 61 inserted into the interior space 59, which advantageously simultaneously forms a support element 63 on which the electromagnet device 38 is fixed together with the retaining plate 47. These components thus form a jointly manageable unit.

The support element 63 is preferably hood-shaped, with its hood opening facing the lower end wall 8 and with the mentioned components being accommodated in the interior of the hood-like support element 63. The mounting of the support element 63 is advantageously carried out in the axial direction of the vertical axis 3 from above. The mounting hole used for this purpose is usually one at the top the valve housing 2 arranged housing cover 64 is closed.

The required distance to the lower end wall 8 is exemplified by the fact that the insertion depth s of the support member 63 is limited by from the lower end wall 8 upwardly projecting support means 65. Between these support means 65 and the facing edge of the support member 63 and the suspension portions 56 of the resilient support structure 55 may be clamped.

In the receiving chamber 62 located in the height direction between the support element 63 and the housing cover 64 there is a support plate 66, which carries an electrical conductor structure denoted in its entirety by reference numeral 67. Via this electrical conductor structure 67, an electrical connection is established between the coil connection contacts 44a, 44b passed through the support element 63 and a multiple connector 68 fixed to the valve housing 2, which interface with an external electronic control device (not further shown). About the latter, the

20 for the coil assembly 43 desired excitation voltage can be applied.

The carrier plate 66 may be combined with the support element 63 to form a structural unit. In particular, it is arranged such that its board plane runs at right angles to the vertical axis 3.

The multiple plug 68 may be fixed in a recess of the valve housing 2 between the housing cover 64 and the housing lower part 64a including the lower end wall 8. The magnetic valve 1 is expediently also equipped with diagnostic units which enable the monitoring of one or more valve functions. Among these diagnostic means are means for detecting one or both switching positions of the valve member 24. The exemplary solenoid valve 1 is designed for a detection of both switching positions.

In this context, the pivotally movable valve member 24 carries two switching contact elements 69, 70, which join the pivoting movement 32 at least partially. They are placed in the longitudinal direction of the valve member 24 on both sides of the pivot bearing area 26. Thus, when one of the switching contact elements moves away from the electromagnet device 38 during the pivoting movement 32, the other approaches it.

Each of these switching contact elements 69, 70 is located above the valve member 24 disposed fixed to the housing Gegenkontakt- element 73, 74 opposite. If, for example, the first valve member arm 27 is pivoted to the holding plate 47, then the first switching contact element 69, which is coupled with this first valve member arm 27, has come into electrical contact with the first countercontact element 73 located opposite the vertical axis 3. At the same time, the electrical connection between the other, second contact element 70 and the second countercontact element 74 assigned to it is interrupted. In the opposite switching position of the valve member 24 results in a correspondingly reverse constellation.

The two counter-contact elements 73, 74 are each a the support element 63 passing through electrical conductors 75, 76 with the electrical conductor structure 67 of the support board 66th in connection. In addition, this electrical conductor structure 67 via a further electrical conductor 77 is constantly connected to the two switching contact elements 69, 70 of the valve member 24. The latter is expediently carried out in that the electrical conductor 77 is contacted in the pivot bearing region 26 with the valve member 24 and from there within the valve member 24 is an electrical connection to each switching contact element 69, 70.

Depending on the switching position, a first circuit is thus closed and at the same time a second circuit is interrupted, or vice versa. This results in a Schaltstellungs- signal that allows a conclusion to the current switching position of the valve member 24.

Preferably, each circuit is capable of producing a light signal as a switching position signal. For this purpose, each one, for example, formed by an LED light-emitting element 78 is turned on in the two circuits, which lights up when the circuit is closed. In this way, it can be clearly visualized in the exemplary embodiment whether the first switching position or the second switching position is currently present.

For the sake of clarity, the components of the electromagnetic device 38 and the valve member 24 with associated periphery are shown schematically in Figure 5 next to the valve housing. In fact, these components are located below the support plate 66 shown in plan view in FIG.

The switching contact elements 69, 70 and mating contact elements 73, 74 are arranged in the embodiment in the region of one and the same longitudinal side of the valve member 24. From FIGS. 3 to 5, however, it can be seen that also on the opposite side Longitudinal side corresponding contact elements may be provided, which are then also electrically connected via suitable electrical conductors to the electrical conductor structure 67 of the carrier board 66. In this way, if necessary, further electrical queries can be carried out.

The two switching contact elements 69, 70 are in the embodiment part of a Kontaktierungsleiste 79, which limits the valve member 34 alongside. A corresponding contacting strip 79a may be located on the opposite longitudinal side of the valve member 24. The contacting strip 79, 79a can consist entirely of electrically conductive material, in particular metal, in which case the switching contact elements 69, 70 do not have to be discreetly machined, but can be formed by a surface section of this contacting strip 79, 79a.

The contacting strips 79, 79a sit expediently independently of the main body 37 on the resilient support structure 55. Therefore, they make the total pivoting movement, but with respect to the main body 37 due to the elasticity of the spring can also assume different pivoting angles. This creates an automatic compensation of the assembly tolerances between on the one hand, the electrical contact elements and on the other hand, the component pairs used for controlling the Ventilkanalmündungen 13, 14.

If only one switching position of the valve member 24 is to be detected, it is, of course, sufficient to provide a single circuit, optionally to be closed or to be interrupted, with corresponding components.

The diagnostic means of the solenoid valve 1 expediently also contain a pressure sensor 83, which preferably also on the carrier board 66 is seated. On the one hand, it is connected to the electrical conductor structure 61 and on the other hand is in fluid communication with the valve chamber 12 via a fluidic tapping channel 84. Thus, it is capable of detecting and verifying the pressure prevailing in the valve chamber 12, whether the solenoid valve 1 switches correctly.

The electrical signals required for the operation of the diagnostic means, which may be a simple actuation voltage, may also be provided to the solenoid valve 1 via a corresponding number of poles

Multiple plug 68 are supplied. In this way, it is also possible, in particular, to apply an electrical voltage to the circuits containing the light-emitting elements 78 only when necessary, during a checking phase. As a result, electrical energy can be saved.

If necessary, the detection result of the pressure switch 83 can also be visualized by a light-emitting element 78a.

The light-emitting elements 78, 78a can be installed on the upper side of the carrier board 66 in such a way that they come to rest in the region of wall openings 85 of the housing cover 64, which allow light to exit.

Instead of a multiple plug 68, other interface means for the signal transmission may be present, for example, a directly outgoing flexible cable and / or wireless signal transmission means.

To the valve seats 18 is nachzutragen still that they are suitably slightly inclined to ensure in the closed position of the associated locking arm 33/34 a planar contact of the closure portion 35.

Claims

July 11, 2006 claims 1. Solenoid valve, having a vertical axis (3) having a valve housing (2) in which an elongated, transversely to the vertical axis (3) extending and for switching between two switching positions in a pivot bearing area (26) swivel-mounted bar rocker-shaped valve member (24) is arranged, which has at least partially soft magnetic properties and the two in opposite directions of the pivot bearing region (26) projecting valve member arms (27, 28), of which at least one of a locking arm (33, lo 34) forms, in Direction of the vertical axis (3) below the valve member (24) to be controlled by him valve port mouth (13, 14) opposite, which he can release or close according to the respectively assumed switching position, and with a in the direction of the vertical axis (3) above the Ven - i5 tilgliedes (24) arranged, a coil assembly (43) having elongated electromagnet means (38) which is activatable t, to generate at least one of the pivoting of the valve member (24) causing magnetic field, characterized in that the electromagnet means (38) with 20 transverse to the vertical axis (3) oriented longitudinal axis (42) in a horizontal orientation above the valve member (24) is arranged, and that between the electromagnetic means (38) and the valve member (24) along these components (38, 24) transversely extending to the vertical axis (3), in its longitudinal direction 25 direction three-pole permanent magnetic holding plate (47) is arranged, whose in the polarization of its two outer poles (49, 50) deviating center pole (48) the Schwenkla- gerbereich (26) of the valve member (24) is associated and under the participation of the valve member (24) is releasably retained in its two switching positions in each case by magnetic force. 2. Solenoid valve according to claim 1, characterized in that both valve member arms as a closure arm (33, 34) are formed, wherein each one to be controlled valve port mouth (13, 14) opposite. 3. Solenoid valve according to claim 2, characterized in that lo the two valve channel openings to be controlled (13, 14) in a common, perpendicular to the vertical axis (3) mouth plane (17) are arranged. 4. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the pivot bearing region (26) of the valve i5 member (24) below the same a constantly open valve port mouth (22) opposite. 5. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the valve member (24) in the direction of the vertical axis (3) a the at least one to be controlled Ventilka- 2o nalmündung (13, 14) having the lower end wall (8) of the valve housing (2) with distance opposite, over which the valve member (24) floats free of support. 6. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that each locking arm (33, 34) in the one 25 to be controlled valve port (13, 14) opposite region has a rubber-elastic properties possessing sealing plate (36). 7. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the valve member (24) with its pivot bearing region (26) is supported pivotably directly on the adjacent holding plate (47). 5. 8. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to I _1, characterized in that the electromagnetic device (38) has a coil arrangement (43) passing through magnetic core (45), at the two of the coil assembly (43) projecting end portions (46), the permanent magnetic Holding plate (47) is applied. 9. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the at least one valve channel opening to be controlled (13, 14) lying between the center pole (48) and an outer pole (49, 59) lying region of the associated Ver i5 schlussarmes ( 33, 34), such that the closure section (35) of the closure arm (33, 34) cooperating with the valve channel mouth (13, 14) extends in the longitudinal direction of the holding plate (47) to both the center pole (48) and the outer pole (33). 49, 59) is spaced. 10. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that at least one valve member arm (27, 28) carries a magnetic holding force reinforcing permanent magnetic force amplifying element (58). 11. Solenoid valve according to claim 10, that the power amplifier 25 kung element (58) in the region of an outer pole (50) on the valve member arm (28) is arranged. 12. Solenoid valve according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the force-amplifying element (58) on the Holding plate (47) opposite bottom of the valve member arm (28) is arranged. 13. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the electromagnetic device (38) together 5 men with the holding plate (47) is received in a in the valve housing (2) inserted support member (63). 14. Solenoid valve according to claim 13, characterized in that the support element (63) hood-shaped, with the at least one valve port to be controlled (13, 14) facing lo hood opening, is formed. 15. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the valve member at least one moving during pivoting electrical switching contact element (69, 70) which can cooperate with a valve housing-fixed counter-con tact element (73, 74) in order to either close or interrupt at least one switching position signal-inducing circuit in accordance with the switching position of the valve member (24). 16. Solenoid valve according to claim 15, characterized in that the valve member (24) has a plurality of pivot positions alternately two different circuits closing or interrupting switching contact elements (69, 70), such that in each switching position depending a switching position signal can be generated. 25 17. Solenoid valve according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that at least one switching position signal from a on board the solenoid valve (1) located light emitting element (78) output light signal. 18. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that in the interior of the valve housing (2) with a to the vertical axis (3) of the valve housing (2) right-angled board plane aligned carrier board (66) is arranged, 5 carries at least components of the at least one circuit forming components. 19. Solenoid valve according to claim 18, characterized in that the carrier plate (66) on the valve member (24) in the direction of the vertical axis (3) opposite side of the Ele lo- romagneteinrichtung (38) is arranged. 20. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that it contains a pressure sensor (83) which is connected to a valve member (24) receiving the valve chamber (12) and the expediently also from the carrier platinum (66 ) is worn. 21. Solenoid valve according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that on the valve housing (2) a multiple plug for the electrical communication is arranged.