Magnetic detent mechanism for use with spool valves
US3994473A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 12, 1976 |
| Grant date | Nov 30, 1976 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 12, 1996 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/8671
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention pertains to detent mechanisms for use with valve spools wherein the detent mechanisms are operable to releaseably secure the valve spool in various predetermined axial positions and to apply various biasing forces on the valve spool depending upon its axial position thereby permitting the valve operator to sense or feel the position of the valve spool. The detent mechanism of the invention includes a generally cylindrical housing which supports a pair of spaced magnets and which receives a shaft coaxial with and connected to the valve spool. The shaft is received through bores in the magnets and is slideable with respect to the magnets. The shaft also supports a pair of contact rings which are comprised of magnetically attractable material and which are received in the space between the magnets. Upon axial movement of the valve spool, the contact rings are brought into contact with one of the magnets. Additional force is then required to move the spool thus providing a detent function and permitting the valve operator to sense the position of the valve spool.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.