EP2770216B1 - Valve assembly - Google Patents

Valve assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2770216B1
EP2770216B1 EP13000845.1A EP13000845A EP2770216B1 EP 2770216 B1 EP2770216 B1 EP 2770216B1 EP 13000845 A EP13000845 A EP 13000845A EP 2770216 B1 EP2770216 B1 EP 2770216B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
valve
distributor
module
modules
connection
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP13000845.1A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2770216A1 (en
Inventor
Eduard Wenske
Swen Schuppler
Heiko Kühbauch
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Festo SE and Co KG
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Festo SE and Co KG
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Application filed by Festo SE and Co KG filed Critical Festo SE and Co KG
Priority to EP13000845.1A priority Critical patent/EP2770216B1/en
Publication of EP2770216A1 publication Critical patent/EP2770216A1/en
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Publication of EP2770216B1 publication Critical patent/EP2770216B1/en
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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0807—Manifolds
    • F15B13/0817—Multiblock manifolds
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F15—FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS; HYDRAULICS OR PNEUMATICS IN GENERAL
    • F15B—SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F15B13/00—Details of servomotor systems ; Valves for servomotor systems
    • F15B13/02—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
    • F15B13/06—Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with two or more servomotors
    • F15B13/08—Assemblies of units, each for the control of a single servomotor only
    • F15B13/0803—Modular units
    • F15B13/0871—Channels for fluid

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a valve assembly having a modular manifold assembly having a plurality of juxtaposed in a rowing direction and each in a joint area facing each other mating joint modules, of which at least several are each formed as a valve support module carrying at least one electrically actuated valve unit wherein each of said valve units has internal valve passages for feeding and discharging a working fluid and at least one valve working channel for connection to an external consumer to be actuated, and wherein each valve carrier module is connected to at least one valve carrier working channel connected to a valve working channel of the valve unit located thereon is interspersed, to which an external consumer to be actuated can be connected by means of at least one consumer connection opening arranged on the outside of the distributor module.
  • One from the DE 19711227 C2 known valve assembly of this type includes a distribution base called a mounting base having a plurality of juxtaposed in a Aukahungsraum and mechanically fixed to each other distribution modules. Electrically actuated valve units with internal valve channels are mounted on the manifold assembly. Some of the distributor modules are as valve carrier modules each designed and carry one of the valve units, wherein they are interspersed in each case by at least one valve carrier working channel which communicates with a valve working channel of the associated valve unit. Each valve support module has at least one consumer connection opening connected to a valve carrier working channel, which allows the connection of a fluid line leading to a consumer to be actuated. By electrical actuation of the valve units, the respectively connected consumer can be actuated as desired, wherein the working fluid used for this purpose is fed through and discharged through valve channels of the valve units.
  • the achievable working capacity of the consumer (s) to be actuated depends significantly on the size of the valve units and more precisely on the flow cross sections of the valve channels. If there is an application-specific need for higher performance, a valve arrangement with larger valve units must be used, which makes it necessary to provide differently sized valve units with correspondingly varying flow rates for different performance. This is associated with a high cost.
  • the invention has for its object to propose measures with which the recoverable with the valve assembly work can be inexpensively adapted to a different needs.
  • valve carrier working channels of several valve support modules to form at least a collecting working channel are fluidly interconnected.
  • a common working channel referred to as a collective working channel
  • the collecting working channel can be fed simultaneously from several valve units with a working fluid, so that a higher flow rate can be achieved.
  • the cross-sections of the distribution channels are dimensioned sufficiently large to allow the maximum of the associated valve units available flow pass. The multiple supply possible one and the same collecting working channel through different valve units opens with appropriate control also the ability to perform a staggered operation, for example, to gradually change the flow rate.
  • valve units which control valve carrier working channels belonging to the same collecting working channel in comparison with each other with different flow rates, a particularly cost-saving effect results when using valves with the same flow rates and in particular matching construction.
  • the use of identical valve units or at least valve units of an identical basic type allows a variation of the flows with a small number of different components.
  • the manifold assembly may also include other valve support modules having individual valve support working channels connected to only the valve unit with which the valve unit is concerned Distributor module is equipped.
  • a custom composition may be realized in which the manifold assembly is provided with a variable number of manifold working channels and, if desired, individual valve carrier working channels.
  • valve carrier working channels of a plurality of valve carrier modules arranged directly adjacent to one another in the line-up direction are fluidically connected to one another to form at least one collecting working channel.
  • at least two or more immediately adjacent valve carrier modules can be used to form at least one collecting working channel.
  • valve carrier working channels of the same valve carrier modules can be realized without further ado.
  • valve carrier working channels of the same valve carrier modules can be interconnect to several independent collection working channels. This is expedient if the valve units arranged on the distributor modules each have two valve working channels, which is the case in a preferred embodiment as 5/2-way valves or 5/3-way valves.
  • At least one collecting working channel may be formed by the valve carrier working channels of a first group of valve carrier modules, while a second collecting working channel is formed by the valve carrier working channels of another group of valve carrier modules.
  • each valve carrier module has a consumer connection opening connected to the valve carrier working channel running in it and belonging to a collecting working channel.
  • a consumer connection opening connected to the valve carrier working channel running in it and belonging to a collecting working channel.
  • a single one of the existing consumer connection openings can be used to connect a fluid line leading to a consumer, while all other consumer connection openings are closed, for example by separate closure means, in particular closure screws.
  • the user also has the option of using a plurality of consumer connection openings of the collecting working channel and, for example, externally connecting them by an external fluid line arrangement in such a way that the dispensed working fluid can be uniformly supplied to a consumer.
  • the distributor module may also have further distributor modules lined up with the valve carrier modules in the line-up direction.
  • a distributor module is expediently a connection module which does not carry a valve unit and can therefore also be designated as a valveless, which has at least one connection opening accessible from the outside and suitable for the connection of a fluid line.
  • the connection module can be used, for example, to feed the working fluid to be distributed by the valve units to one or more consumers.
  • a connection port may be connected to a manifold feed passage passing through the manifold assembly, which communicates with all the valve units.
  • connection module can also have at least one connection opening, which is used for a central fluid discharge of the working fluid flowing back from the connected consumers.
  • connection opening expediently communicates with a distributor-discharge channel passing through the distributor assembly, which is in fluid communication with all the valve units.
  • At least one connection opening arranged on a valveless connection module as a consumer connection opening, if at least one collecting working channel is composed not only of fluidically interconnected valve carrier working channels, but also of one with them Valve carrier working channels communicating connection channel, which extends in the connection module and the outside of the connection module opens with a used as a consumer connection port connection port.
  • at least one collecting working channel is composed not only of fluidically interconnected valve carrier working channels, but also of one with them Valve carrier working channels communicating connection channel, which extends in the connection module and the outside of the connection module opens with a used as a consumer connection port connection port.
  • possibly trained consumer connection openings can be closed if necessary in the valve support modules or you can even on the realization completely dispense of consumer connection openings in the valve support modules.
  • connection module expediently directly adjoins at least one valve carrier module interspersed by a collecting working channel.
  • a connection module equipped with a consumer connection opening of a collecting working channel can be located both at the end of the distributor assembly, for example in the form of an end plate, or can be placed between two valve carrier modules, for example in the form of an intermediate plate.
  • the distributor modules are expediently penetrated by a signal distribution channel in which a signal distribution line extends, which is electrically connected within the valve carrier modules to the valve unit arranged on or in the valve carrier module.
  • valve units are expediently electro-fluid pilot operated valve units. These include a main valve distributing the working fluid and an electrically operated pilot valve device, which fluidly actuates the main valve.
  • the valve units are designed in particular as 5/2-way valves, 5/3-way valves or 3/2-way valves.
  • valve arrangement is expediently operated with compressed air as working fluid. However, it is also suitable for operation with other gaseous or liquid media.
  • the valve assembly designated in its entirety by reference numeral 1, contains a manifold assembly 3 equipped with a plurality of electrically operable valve assemblies 2.
  • the manifold assembly 3 extends linearly along a major axis 4, which simultaneously forms the longitudinal axis of the manifold assembly 3.
  • the distributor assembly 3 is modular. It contains a plurality of individual distribution modules 5, which in a direction indicated by a double arrow Auzyhungscardi 6 are strung together.
  • the alignment direction 6 coincides with the main axis 4.
  • the individual distributor modules 5 are expediently block-shaped or plate-shaped. They are suitably made of metal or plastic material.
  • Each distributor module 5 has a joining surface 7 on each side facing an adjacent distributor module 5.
  • the distributor modules 5 are attached to one another with mutually facing joining surfaces 7.
  • the contact region of two joining surfaces 7 forms a joining region 8 in each case.
  • sealing means 12 are expediently arranged between the juxtaposed distributor modules 5, which allow a fluid-tight connection.
  • Fasteners 13 hold the distributor modules 5 together in a preferably detachable manner.
  • the fastening means 13 are formed by tie rods, which extend through the distributor modules 5 in the line-up direction 6 and span all the distributor modules 5 in the line-up direction 6.
  • valve carrier modules 14 which each carry at least one and preferably exactly one of the already mentioned valve units 2.
  • the distributor assembly 3 has a total of four directly adjacent valve carrier modules 14, each of which is equipped with a valve unit 2.
  • valve units 2 are expediently fastened individually to the respectively assigned valve carrier module 14.
  • they are mounted with a base 15 ahead on a fitting surface 16 of the relevant valve support module 4 oriented at right angles to the main axis 4.
  • each valve unit 2 is sunk with at least part of its height housed in the associated valve support module 14. It is also possible to place each valve unit 2 under an individual cover, which is releasably attached to the associated valve support module 14.
  • the two end distribution modules 5a, 5b are expediently not equipped with a valve unit and serve only for the fluidic and preferably also electrical communication of the valve arrangement 1 with the outside world.
  • the first end distributor module 5a is designed as a first connection module 17 not having a valve unit, the second end distributor module 5b as a second connection module 18 having no valve unit.
  • connection modules 17, 18 can also be replaced by simple termination modules having no connection possibilities. Furthermore, it is possible to use only one of the end distribution modules 5a or 5b as Use connection module and run the other end distribution module as a simple termination module.
  • Distributor feed channel 22 indicated only by dash-dot lines.
  • Parallel to the distributor feed channel 22, two distributor discharge passages 23, 24 extend through the distributor modules 5, which in FIG Figures 3 and 5 again indicated only by dash-dotted lines.
  • only one such distributor-discharge channel 24 may be present.
  • the distributor feed channel 22 is accessible, for example, at the first connection module 17 via a feed connection opening 25, to which a pressure source P is connected via a fluid line during operation of the valve arrangement 1.
  • Each distributor-discharge channel 23, 24 opens, for example, at the first connection module 17 with a discharge connection opening 26, which is in operation of the valve assembly 1 with a pressure sink R, in particular with the atmosphere in communication.
  • the distributor feed channel 22 and each distributor discharge channel 23, 24 are closed in a fluid-tight manner.
  • alternatively usable connection openings 25, 26 can also be located there.
  • Each valve support module 14 is penetrated by a plurality of perpendicular to the main axis 4 adjacent channel sections 22 ', 23', 24 'in the alignment direction 6, which lead to the two mutually opposite joining surfaces 7.
  • channel sections 22 ', 23', 24 'aligned with each other and complement each other Forming the mentioned distributor feed channel 22 and the at least one distributor-discharge channel 23, 24th
  • a distributor channel 27 expediently also extends in the line-up direction 6 through the distributor assembly 3, which in the region of the valve carrier modules 14 is composed of mutually aligned channel sections 27 'passing through the individual valve carrier modules 14 in the line-up direction 6.
  • the signal distribution channel 27 expediently continues in the first connection module 14.
  • a suitable signal transmission for a signal transmission line 28 which is provided for example in the region of the first connection module 17 with signal distributor connection means 32 which in the operation of the valve assembly 1 with a schematically indicated electronic control device 33 signal technology and in particular electrically connected are.
  • the distributor feed channel 22 opens out at the loading surface 16 of each valve carrier module 14 with a connection opening 22a.
  • Each distributor-discharge channel 23, 24 opens to the mounting surface 16 of each valve support module 14 with a connection opening 23a, 24a.
  • Each valve unit 2 has a plurality of internal valve channels 34, which lead to the base 15.
  • a particular designed as a valve spool valve member 35 is disposed switchable between different switching positions in the interior of the valve unit 2 and is able to connect the valve channels 34 in different patterns with each other and separate from each other.
  • each valve unit has a 5/2-valve function and is capable of each of two valve working channels 34a, 34b of the valve channels 34th optionally with either a valve inlet channel 34c or one of two valve-Abtechnologykanälen 34d, 34e of the valve channels 34 to connect.
  • the valve unit 2 may be of directly electrically actuated design, wherein the valve member 35 is electromechanically switchable.
  • each valve unit 2 is designed in accordance with the embodiment as an electro-fluid pilot-operated multiway valve.
  • the valve member 35 and the aforementioned valve channels 34 are components of a main valve 36 of the valve unit 2, wherein the valve unit 2 also has an electro-fluidically operating pilot valve means 37, the valve member 35 of the main valve 36 on the basis of received electrical control signals in per se known Switch mode by fluid power.
  • the pilot valve device 37 acts as a kind of fluidic relay, the main valve 36 for switching a pilot fluid is imposed, which is branched off, for example, in the interior of the main valve 36 of the valve-inlet channel 34c.
  • the pilot valve device 37 is provided in the region of the base surface 15 with electrical contact means 39 which engage in the mounted on the mounting surface 16 state of the valve unit 2 in the associated channel portion 27 'of the signal distribution channel 27 and are releasably electrically connected thereto in the signal distribution line 28.
  • the valve units 2 can receive from the external electronic control device 33 required for their operation electrical control signals or feedback signals to the electronic control device 33 output.
  • Each assembled valve unit 2 is in fluid communication with its manifold feed passage 34c via the communication port 22a of the associated valve support module 14 to the manifold feed passage 22. In this way, at each valve unit 2 is a starting from the pressure source P in the distribution feed channel 22 fed working fluid for distribution available.
  • each valve discharge passage 34d, 34e of each assembled valve unit 2 is in fluid communication with one of the manifold discharge passages 23, 24 via the associated communication port 23a, 24a.
  • each consumer 38 to be controlled has two working ports 38a, 38b which are provided to supply or discharge a pressurized working fluid to move a movable working member 41 of the consumer 38.
  • the working fluid to be supplied comes from the distribution feeder passage 22.
  • the working fluid to be discharged is discharged by using one or the other distribution discharge passage 23, 24.
  • one or more in the manifold assembly 3 extending valve carrier working channels 43, 44 are used, which establish the fluid connection between each of a valve unit 2 and a consumer 38.
  • Each valve support module 14 is preferably equipped with two mutually independent valve carrier working channels 43, 44, which in the following also serve as the first one for a better distinction Valve carrier working channel 43 and second valve carrier working channel 44 are designated.
  • the first valve carrier working channel 43 opens with a connection opening 43 a to the mounting surface 16 in such a way that it is in fluid communication with the one valve working channel 34 a of the valve unit 2.
  • the other, second valve carrier working channel 44 discharges via a connection opening 44a to the mounting surface 16 so that it communicates with the other, second valve working channel 34b of the valve unit 2.
  • Each first valve carrier working channel 43 leads to at least one outer consumer connection opening 43b arranged on the outside of the distributor assembly 3, away from the assembly surface 16.
  • every second valve carrier working channel 44 communicates with at least one second consumer connection opening 44b, which is likewise arranged in the region of an outer surface of the distributor assembly 3 away from the assembly surface 16.
  • Each consumer connection opening 43b, 44b can be used to connect an external consumer 38 to be actuated by means of a fluid line 40 illustrated in the drawing as an arrow.
  • each consumer connection opening 43b, 44b is equipped with fastening means which allow a preferably detachable fastening of a fluid line leading to the consumer 38.
  • the fastening means are realized, for example, in the form of fastening threads or plug connectors 42.
  • the consumer connection openings 43b, 44b are located opposite to the mounting surfaces 16 But they can also, for example, at the perpendicular to the mounting surfaces 16 aligned end faces of the manifold modules 5 open.
  • a first consumer connection opening 43b having one working connection 38a and a second consumer connection opening 44b being connected to the other working connection 38b of a consumer 38 designed as a fluid-actuated drive the working element 41 can be moved towards and away by corresponding actuation of the associated valve unit 2 be driven forth walking work movement.
  • the manifold assembly 3 is equipped with at least one valve support module 14, the valve support working channels 43, 44 lead exclusively to a consumer connection port 43b, 44b, which are a part of this valve support module 14. In the embodiment, this applies to the two right of the total here four valve support modules 14.
  • These valve carrier working channels, which are connected to consumer connection openings 43b, 44b formed exclusively on the same valve carrier module 14, will also be referred to as individual valve carriers working channels 45 for better distinction.
  • a consumer connected there is operated exclusively with a fluid flow rate which is determined by the valve unit 2 mounted on the relevant valve support module 14.
  • the manifold assembly 3 additionally includes a plurality of valve support modules 14, the first valve carrier working channels 43 are fluidly connected to form a first collecting working channel 46 and their second valve support working channels 44 are fluidly connected independently of the first valve support working channels 43 to form a second collection working channel 47.
  • first valve carrier working channels 43 are fluidly connected to form a first collecting working channel 46 and their second valve support working channels 44 are fluidly connected independently of the first valve support working channels 43 to form a second collection working channel 47.
  • valve carrier working channels 43 and 44 take place in each case in the joining region 8 between the juxtaposed valve support modules 14 and refers in the embodiment on the two left of the total here four valve support modules 14 achieved the simplest
  • the fluid connection is formed by the fact that at least one cross-connection channel 48 connected to the relevant valve carrier working channel 43 or 44 is formed in the valve carrier modules 14, which opens out to the relevant joining surface 7 of the relevant valve carrier module 14, so that the valve carrier working channels 43 and 44 are adjacent Valve carrier modules 14 communicate directly with each other in their joining area 8.
  • valve carrier modules 14 having the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 interconnected to a collecting working channel 46, 47 are preferably those valve carrier modules 14 which are set directly adjacent to one another in the line-up direction 6. This applies to both embodiments.
  • both embodiments also illustrate that within the manifold assembly 3, a plurality of mutually independent, that is not fluidly communicating with each other collecting working channels 46, 47 may be formed, which here on the one hand, the first collecting working channel 46 and the other second collection working channel 47 applies.
  • at least one group of valve support modules 14 forms only a single collecting working channel. This is the case in particular if the valve carrier modules 14 differ from the exemplary embodiment for being equipped with valve units 2 having a 3/2-valve function and each valve carrier module 14 has only a single valve carrier working channel.
  • the present description applies analogously to cases in which a plurality of valve support modules 14 are combined to form only a single collecting working channel.
  • FIG. 6 a further embodiment variant is indicated, in which a further collecting working channel 52 is formed by the working channels 43 or 44 of another group of valve carrier modules 14 than those defining the first and second collecting working channels 46, 47 already described.
  • valve carrier modules 14 each defining at least one collective working channel, in which a valve carrier working channel of a valve carrier module 14 contributes to the formation of collective working channels of both module groups.
  • each valve carrier module 14 expediently has one valve carrier working channel 43, 44 Consumer connection port 43b, 44b. This also expediently applies to those valve carrier modules 14 whose valve carrier working channels 43, 44 are fluidically connected to one another to form a collecting working channel 46, 47. Ultimately, this has the consequence that each collecting working channel 46, 47 communicates with a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b or 44b at the same time.
  • a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b, 44b assigned to a collecting working channel 46, 47 are all closed in a fluid-tight manner, except for one each by a closure means 53.
  • a closure means 53 is designed as a closure screw, which is screwed into the associated, provided with an internal thread consumer connection opening 43b, 44b.
  • per collecting working channel 46, 47 remains only an open consumer connection opening, which is additionally provided in the drawing for better distinction with reference numeral 54.
  • a consumer can be connected or connected to this open consumer connection opening 54, by way of example at one of its working connections 38a, 38b and by mediation of a respective fluid line 40.
  • a consumer 38 connected to an open consumer port 54 of a collecting working channel 46, 47, which is in particular a fluid-operated drive, can be supplied with a fluid flow rate, if necessary, composed of the sum of the flow rates which can be provided by the plurality of valve units 2 commonly associated with the collecting working channel 46, 47.
  • valve carrier working channels 43, 44 of more than just two valve support modules 14 to form a collecting working channel 46, 47 may be fluidly connected to each other.
  • those valve units 2 which control a valve carrier working channel 43, 44 belonging to the same collecting working channel 46, are at least temporarily simultaneously actuated in the same direction, ie either simultaneously supplying the consumer 38 Supply position or at the same time in a fluid discharge from the consumer 38 causing Abvantgna switched.
  • valve units 2 it is also possible to control the valve units 2 by means of the electronic control device 33 so that the same collecting working channel 46, 47 associated valve units 2 are driven in a certain time offset, for example, a gradual pressure build-up or pressure reduction in the connected consumer 38th cause.
  • each collecting working channel 46, 47 communicates with only a single open consumer connection opening 54, which may be a component of a valve carrier module 14 here.
  • connection module 17 and / or 18 provide a consumer connection opening, which is available for connection to a consumer 38.
  • Figures 3 and 4 a possible embodiment.
  • Each collecting working channel 46, 47 continues into the second connection module 18.
  • Two connection channels 55, 56 are formed in the second connection module 18, each opening on the one side to the joining surface 7 facing the adjacent valve support module 14 and on the other side opening out via a connection opening 57 accessible on an outer surface of the second connection module 18.
  • a cross connection channel 48 In the joining region 8 between the second connection module 18 and the adjacent valve support module 14, there is, for example by means of a cross connection channel 48, an open fluid connection between each connection channel 55, 56 and one of the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 of the adjacent valve support module 14.
  • each collecting working channel 46 here from the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 a plurality of valve support modules 14 and a connection channel 55, 56 of a connection module, here the second connection module 18, composed.
  • the connection opening 57 of each connection channel 55, 56 forms a first or second consumer connection opening 43b, 44b.
  • valve support modules 14 at the same time define a plurality of independent collection working channels 46, 47 provided with a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b, 44b, the user of the valve arrangement 1 can freely choose which of the consumer connection openings 43b, 44b he as an open consumer Terminal opening 54 for connecting a consumer 38 uses.
  • valve carrier module 14 equipped with such a valve carrier working channel 43, 44 can only be used if another valve carrier module 14 connected to it or an associated connection module has a consumer connection opening.
  • connection module is arranged differently from the embodiment between two valve support modules 14, it may be formed so that at least one collecting working channel 46, 47 extends through it and leads to a located at this intermediate connection module consumer connection opening.
  • the illustrated valve assembly 1 includes a mixture of valve support modules 14 defining at least one individual working channel 45 and at least one collecting working channel 46, 47. Deviating from this, however, can only on At least one individual working channel 45 equipped valve carrier modules 14 are also dispensed with.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Valve Housings (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Ventilanordnung, mit einer modularen Verteilerbaugruppe, die mehrere in einer Aufreihungsrichtung aneinandergereihte und dabei jeweils in einem Fügebereich mit einander zugewandten Fügeflächen aneinander angesetzte Verteilermodule aufweist, von denen zumindest mehrere jeweils als ein Ventilträgermodul ausgebildet sind, das mindestens eine elektrisch betätigbare Ventileinheit trägt, wobei jede dieser Ventileinheiten interne Ventilkanäle zur Einspeisung und zur Abfuhr eines Arbeitsfluides und mindestens einen Ventil-Arbeitskanal zur Verbindung mit einem zu betätigenden externen Verbraucher aufweist und wobei jedes Ventilträgermodul von mindestens einem mit einem Ventil-Arbeitskanal der an ihm angeordneten Ventileinheit verbundenen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal durchsetzt ist, an den mittels mindestens einer außen an der Verteilerbaugruppe angeordneten Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung ein zu betätigender externer Verbraucher anschließbar ist.The invention relates to a valve assembly having a modular manifold assembly having a plurality of juxtaposed in a rowing direction and each in a joint area facing each other mating joint modules, of which at least several are each formed as a valve support module carrying at least one electrically actuated valve unit wherein each of said valve units has internal valve passages for feeding and discharging a working fluid and at least one valve working channel for connection to an external consumer to be actuated, and wherein each valve carrier module is connected to at least one valve carrier working channel connected to a valve working channel of the valve unit located thereon is interspersed, to which an external consumer to be actuated can be connected by means of at least one consumer connection opening arranged on the outside of the distributor module.

Eine aus der DE 19711227 C2 bekannte Ventilanordnung dieser Art enthält eine als Montagebasis bezeichnete Verteilerbaugruppe mit mehreren in einer Aufreihungsrichtung aneinandergereihten und mechanisch aneinander fixierten Verteilermodulen. Auf der Verteilerbaugruppe sind elektrisch betätigbare Ventileinheiten montiert, die über interne Ventilkanäle verfügen. Einige der Verteilermodule sind als Ventilträgermodule konzipiert und tragen jeweils eine der Ventileinheiten, wobei sie jeweils von mindestens einem Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal durchsetzt sind, der mit einem Ventil-Arbeitskanal der zugeordneten Ventileinheit kommuniziert. Jedes Ventilträgermodul weist mindestens eine mit einem Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal verbundene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung auf, die das Anschließen einer zu einem zu betätigenden Verbraucher führenden Fluidleitung gestattet. Durch elektrische Betätigung der Ventileinheiten kann der jeweils angeschlossene Verbraucher wunschgemäß betätigt werden, wobei das hierzu verwendete Arbeitsfluid durch Ventilkanäle der Ventileinheiten hindurch eingespeist und abgeführt wird.One from the DE 19711227 C2 known valve assembly of this type includes a distribution base called a mounting base having a plurality of juxtaposed in a Aufreihungsrichtung and mechanically fixed to each other distribution modules. Electrically actuated valve units with internal valve channels are mounted on the manifold assembly. Some of the distributor modules are as valve carrier modules each designed and carry one of the valve units, wherein they are interspersed in each case by at least one valve carrier working channel which communicates with a valve working channel of the associated valve unit. Each valve support module has at least one consumer connection opening connected to a valve carrier working channel, which allows the connection of a fluid line leading to a consumer to be actuated. By electrical actuation of the valve units, the respectively connected consumer can be actuated as desired, wherein the working fluid used for this purpose is fed through and discharged through valve channels of the valve units.

Bei der bekannten Ventilanordnung hängt die erzielbare Arbeitsleistung des oder der zu betätigenden Verbraucher(s) maßgeblich von der Baugröße der Ventileinheiten und genauer gesagt von den Strömungsquerschnitten der Ventilkanäle ab. Besteht anwendungsspezifisch Bedarf für eine höhere Arbeitsleistung, muss eine Ventilanordnung mit größeren Ventileinheiten verwendet werden, was es notwendig macht, für unterschiedliche Arbeitsleistungen unterschiedlich große Ventileinheiten mit entsprechend variierenden Durchflussraten zur Verfügung zu stellen. Dies ist mit einem hohen Kostenaufwand verbunden.In the known valve arrangement, the achievable working capacity of the consumer (s) to be actuated depends significantly on the size of the valve units and more precisely on the flow cross sections of the valve channels. If there is an application-specific need for higher performance, a valve arrangement with larger valve units must be used, which makes it necessary to provide differently sized valve units with correspondingly varying flow rates for different performance. This is associated with a high cost.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, Maßnahmen vorzuschlagen, mit denen sich die mit der Ventilanordnung erzielbare Arbeitsleistung kostengünstig an einen unterschiedlichen Bedarf anpassen lässt.The invention has for its object to propose measures with which the recoverable with the valve assembly work can be inexpensively adapted to a different needs.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe ist in Verbindung mit den eingangs genannten Merkmalen vorgesehen, dass in der Verteilerbaugruppe in mindestens einem Fügebereich die Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle mehrerer Ventilträgermodule unter Bildung mindestens eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals fluidisch miteinander verbunden sind.To achieve this object, it is provided in connection with the features mentioned above, that in the distributor assembly in at least one joining region, the valve carrier working channels of several valve support modules to form at least a collecting working channel are fluidly interconnected.

Durch das fluidische Zusammenschalten der Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle wenigstens zweier Ventilträgermodule der Verteilerbaugruppe ergibt sich ein als Sammel-Arbeitskanal bezeichneter gemeinsamer Arbeitskanal, der von den Ventileinheiten mehrerer Verteilermodule gespeist werden kann. Ist eine höhere Arbeitsleistung angestrebt, kann der Sammel-Arbeitskanal gleichzeitig aus mehreren Ventileinheiten mit einem Arbeitsfluid gespeist werden, so dass sich eine höhere Durchflussrate erzielen lässt. Dabei ist selbstverständlich, dass in den Verteilermodulen die Querschnitte der Verteilerkanäle ausreichend groß bemessen sind, um den von den zugeordneten Ventileinheiten maximal zur Verfügung stellbaren Durchfluss durchzulassen. Die mehrfach mögliche Speisung ein und desselben Sammel-Arbeitskanals durch unterschiedliche Ventileinheiten eröffnet bei entsprechender Ansteuerung überdies die Möglichkeit, eine zeitlich versetzte Betätigung durchzuführen, um beispielsweise die Durchflussrate stufenweise zu verändern. Dies kann insbesondere für die Einleitung eines Betriebszyklus eines Verbrauchers sinnvoll sein, um eine sanfte Inbetriebnahme zu gewährleisten. Obgleich es prinzipiell möglich wäre, diejenigen Ventileinheiten, die zum gleichen Sammel-Arbeitskanal gehörende Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle steuern, im Vergleich zueinander mit unterschiedlichen Strömungsraten auszulegen, ergibt sich ein besonders kostensparender Effekt bei der Verwendung von Ventilen mit gleichen Strömungsraten und insbesondere übereinstimmendem Aufbau. Die Verwendung identischer Ventileinheiten oder zumindest Ventileinheiten eines identischen Grundtyps ermöglicht eine Variation der Durchflüsse mit einer geringen Anzahl unterschiedlicher Komponenten.As a result of the fluidic interconnection of the valve carrier working channels of at least two valve carrier modules of the distributor assembly, a common working channel, referred to as a collective working channel, results, which can be fed by the valve units of a plurality of distributor modules. If a higher performance is desired, the collecting working channel can be fed simultaneously from several valve units with a working fluid, so that a higher flow rate can be achieved. It is understood that in the distributor modules, the cross-sections of the distribution channels are dimensioned sufficiently large to allow the maximum of the associated valve units available flow pass. The multiple supply possible one and the same collecting working channel through different valve units opens with appropriate control also the ability to perform a staggered operation, for example, to gradually change the flow rate. This may be useful, in particular, for initiating an operating cycle of a consumer in order to ensure a smooth startup. Although it would be possible in principle to design those valve units which control valve carrier working channels belonging to the same collecting working channel in comparison with each other with different flow rates, a particularly cost-saving effect results when using valves with the same flow rates and in particular matching construction. The use of identical valve units or at least valve units of an identical basic type allows a variation of the flows with a small number of different components.

Es versteht sich, dass die Verteilerbaugruppe zusätzlich zu Ventilträgermodulen, deren Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle zu einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal verbunden sind, auch noch weitere Ventilträgermodule aufweisen kann, die über individuelle Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle verfügen, welche mit nur derjenigen Ventileinheit verbunden sind, mit der das betreffende Verteilermodul ausgestattet ist. Beim Zusammenbau der Ventilanordnung kann eine kundenspezifische Zusammensetzung realisiert werden, bei der die Verteilerbaugruppe mit jeweils einer variablen Anzahl von Sammel-Arbeitskanälen und bei Bedarf auch individuellen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen ausgestattet ist.It will be appreciated that in addition to valve support modules whose valve carrier working channels are connected to a collecting working channel, the manifold assembly may also include other valve support modules having individual valve support working channels connected to only the valve unit with which the valve unit is concerned Distributor module is equipped. When assembling the valve assembly, a custom composition may be realized in which the manifold assembly is provided with a variable number of manifold working channels and, if desired, individual valve carrier working channels.

Vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung gehen aus den Unteransprüchen hervor.Advantageous developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

Zweckmäßigerweise sind zur Bildung mindestens eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals die Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle mehrerer in der Aufreihungsrichtung unmittelbar aneinander angesetzter Ventilträgermodule fluidisch miteinander verbunden. Auf diese Weise können zur Bildung mindestens eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals wenigstens zwei oder mehr unmittelbar aneinander angesetzte Ventilträgermodule genutzt werden.Expediently, the valve carrier working channels of a plurality of valve carrier modules arranged directly adjacent to one another in the line-up direction are fluidically connected to one another to form at least one collecting working channel. In this way, at least two or more immediately adjacent valve carrier modules can be used to form at least one collecting working channel.

Innerhalb der Verteilerbaugruppe können ohne weiteres mehrere voneinander unabhängige Sammel-Arbeitskanäle realisiert sein. Dabei besteht insbesondere die Möglichkeit, Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle der gleichen Ventilträgermodule zu mehreren voneinander unabhängigen Sammel-Arbeitskanälen zu verschalten. Dies ist dann zweckmäßig, wenn die an den Verteilermodulen angeordneten Ventileinheiten jeweils über zwei Ventil-Arbeitskanäle verfügen, was bei einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung als 5/2-Wegeventile oder 5/3-Wegeventile der Fall ist.Within the distributor assembly, several independent collective working channels can be realized without further ado. In particular, it is possible to interconnect valve carrier working channels of the same valve carrier modules to several independent collection working channels. This is expedient if the valve units arranged on the distributor modules each have two valve working channels, which is the case in a preferred embodiment as 5/2-way valves or 5/3-way valves.

In der Verteilerbaugruppe können auch mehrere voneinander unabhängige Sammel-Arbeitskanäle angeordnet sein, die sich aus Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen unterschiedlicher Ventilträgermodule zusammensetzen. So kann wenigstens ein Sammel-Arbeitskanal von den Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen einer ersten Gruppe von Ventilträgermodulen gebildet sein, während ein zweiter Sammel-Arbeitskanal von den Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen einer weiteren Gruppe von Ventilträgermodulen gebildet ist.In the manifold assembly also several independent collective working channels can be arranged, which are composed of valve carrier working channels different valve carrier modules. Thus, at least one collecting working channel may be formed by the valve carrier working channels of a first group of valve carrier modules, while a second collecting working channel is formed by the valve carrier working channels of another group of valve carrier modules.

Bei einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform verfügt mindestens ein und insbesondere jedes Ventilträgermodul über eine mit dem in ihm verlaufenden und zu einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal gehörenden Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal verbundene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung. Es besteht hierbei die Möglichkeit, wahlweise nur eine, mehrere oder sämtliche Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen als offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung zum Anschließen eines zu betätigenden Verbrauchers zu nutzen. Beispielsweise kann bei ausreichend großem Öffnungsquerschnitt eine einzige der vorhandenen Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen für den Anschluss einer zu einem Verbraucher führenden Fluidleitung genutzt werden, während alle anderen Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen verschlossen werden, beispielsweise durch separate Verschlussmittel, insbesondere Verschlussschrauben. Alternativ hat der Anwender aber auch die Möglichkeit, mehrere Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen des Sammel-Arbeitskanals zu nutzen und beispielsweise durch eine externe Fluidleitungsanordnung extern so zu verbinden, dass das ausgegebene Arbeitsfluid einem Verbraucher einheitlich zugeführt werden kann.In a preferred embodiment, at least one and in particular each valve carrier module has a consumer connection opening connected to the valve carrier working channel running in it and belonging to a collecting working channel. In this case, it is possible to optionally use only one, several or all consumer connection openings as an open consumer connection opening for connecting a consumer to be actuated. For example, with a sufficiently large opening cross-section, a single one of the existing consumer connection openings can be used to connect a fluid line leading to a consumer, while all other consumer connection openings are closed, for example by separate closure means, in particular closure screws. Alternatively, however, the user also has the option of using a plurality of consumer connection openings of the collecting working channel and, for example, externally connecting them by an external fluid line arrangement in such a way that the dispensed working fluid can be uniformly supplied to a consumer.

Die Verteilerbaugruppe kann außer den Ventilträgermodulen noch weitere mit den Ventilträgermodulen in der Aufreihungsrichtung aneinandergereihte Verteilermodule aufweisen. Mindestens ein solches Verteilermodul ist zweckmäßigerweise ein keine Ventileinheit tragendes und deshalb auch als ventillos bezeichenbares Anschlussmodul, das mindestens eine von außen her zugängliche und für den Anschluss einer Fluidleitung geeignete Anschlussöffnung aufweist. Das Anschlussmodul kann beispielsweise genutzt werden, um das von den Ventileinheiten an einen oder mehrere Verbraucher zu verteilende Arbeitsfluid einzuspeisen. In diesem Zusammenhang kann eine Anschlussöffnung mit einem die Verteilerbaugruppe durchziehenden Verteiler-Speisekanal verbunden sein, der mit allen Ventileinheiten kommuniziert.In addition to the valve carrier modules, the distributor module may also have further distributor modules lined up with the valve carrier modules in the line-up direction. At least Such a distributor module is expediently a connection module which does not carry a valve unit and can therefore also be designated as a valveless, which has at least one connection opening accessible from the outside and suitable for the connection of a fluid line. The connection module can be used, for example, to feed the working fluid to be distributed by the valve units to one or more consumers. In this connection, a connection port may be connected to a manifold feed passage passing through the manifold assembly, which communicates with all the valve units.

In vergleichbarer Weise kann ein Anschlussmodul auch mindestens eine Anschlussöffnung aufweisen, die für eine zentrale Fluidabfuhr des von den angeschlossenen Verbrauchern zurückströmenden Arbeitsfluides genutzt wird. Eine solche Anschlussöffnung kommuniziert zweckmäßigerweise mit einem die Verteilerbaugruppe durchziehenden Verteiler-Abführkanal, der mit sämtlichen Ventileinheiten in Fluidverbindung steht.In a comparable manner, a connection module can also have at least one connection opening, which is used for a central fluid discharge of the working fluid flowing back from the connected consumers. Such a connection opening expediently communicates with a distributor-discharge channel passing through the distributor assembly, which is in fluid communication with all the valve units.

Es besteht darüber hinaus die alternative oder zusätzliche Möglichkeit, mindestens eine an einem ventillosen Anschlussmodul angeordnete Anschlussöffnung als Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung zu nutzen, wenn sich mindestens ein Sammel-Arbeitskanal nicht nur aus fluidisch miteinander verbundenen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen zusammensetzt, sondern auch noch aus einem mit diesen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen kommunizierenden Anschlusskanal, der sich in dem Anschlussmodul erstreckt und außen an dem Anschlussmodul mit einer als Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung genutzten Anschlussöffnung ausmündet. In diesem Fall können in den Ventilträgermodulen eventuell ausgebildete Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen bei Bedarf verschlossen werden oder man kann sogar auf die Realisierung von Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen in den Ventilträgermodulen gänzlich verzichten.In addition, there is the alternative or additional possibility of using at least one connection opening arranged on a valveless connection module as a consumer connection opening, if at least one collecting working channel is composed not only of fluidically interconnected valve carrier working channels, but also of one with them Valve carrier working channels communicating connection channel, which extends in the connection module and the outside of the connection module opens with a used as a consumer connection port connection port. In this case, possibly trained consumer connection openings can be closed if necessary in the valve support modules or you can even on the realization completely dispense of consumer connection openings in the valve support modules.

Ein Anschlussmodul grenzt zweckmäßigerweise unmittelbar an mindestens ein von einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal durchsetztes Ventilträgermodul an.A connection module expediently directly adjoins at least one valve carrier module interspersed by a collecting working channel.

Ein mit einer Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals ausgestattetes Anschlussmodul kann sich sowohl am Ende der Verteilerbaugruppe befinden, beispielsweise in Gestalt einer Endplatte, oder kann zwischen zwei Ventilträgermodulen platziert sein, beispielsweise in Form einer Zwischenplatte.A connection module equipped with a consumer connection opening of a collecting working channel can be located both at the end of the distributor assembly, for example in the form of an end plate, or can be placed between two valve carrier modules, for example in the form of an intermediate plate.

Um die Ventileinheiten zentral elektrisch ansteuern zu können, sind die Verteilermodule zweckmäßigerweise von einem Signalverteilerkanal durchsetzt, in dem sich ein Signalverteilungsstrang erstreckt, der innerhalb der Ventilträgermodule mit der an oder in dem Ventilträgermodul angeordneten Ventileinheit elektrisch verbunden ist.In order to be able to electrically control the valve units centrally, the distributor modules are expediently penetrated by a signal distribution channel in which a signal distribution line extends, which is electrically connected within the valve carrier modules to the valve unit arranged on or in the valve carrier module.

Bei den Ventileinheiten handelt es sich zweckmäßigerweise um elektro-fluidisch vorgesteuerte Ventileinheiten. Selbige enthalten ein das Arbeitsfluid verteilendes Hauptventil und eine das Hauptventil fluidisch betätigende, elektrisch betriebene Vorsteuerventileinrichtung.The valve units are expediently electro-fluid pilot operated valve units. These include a main valve distributing the working fluid and an electrically operated pilot valve device, which fluidly actuates the main valve.

Die Ventileinheiten sind insbesondere als 5/2-Wegeventile, 5/3-Wegeventile oder 3/2-Wegeventile ausgebildet.The valve units are designed in particular as 5/2-way valves, 5/3-way valves or 3/2-way valves.

Die Ventilanordnung wird zweckmäßigerweise mit Druckluft als Arbeitsfluid betrieben. Allerdings eignet sie sich auch für einen Betrieb mit anderen gasförmigen oder auch flüssigen Medien.The valve arrangement is expediently operated with compressed air as working fluid. However, it is also suitable for operation with other gaseous or liquid media.

Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung anhand der beiliegenden Zeichnung näher erläutert. In dieser zeigen:

Figur 1
eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Ventilanordnung in einer Schrägansicht,
Figur 2
eine Explosionsdarstellung der Ventilanordnung aus Figur 1, wobei eine Ventileinheit im vom zugeordneten Ventilträgermodul abgehobenen Zustand illustriert ist,
Figur 3
eine Unteransicht der Ventilanordnung mit Blickrichtung gemäß Pfeil III aus Figur 1, wobei schematisch der interne Kanalverlauf illustriert ist,
Figur 4
einen Längsschnitt durch die Ventilanordnung gemäß Schnittlinie IV-IV aus Figur 3,
Figur 5
eine mit Figur 3 vergleichbare Unteransicht der Ventilanordnung in einer abweichenden Ausstattung der Verteilerbaugruppe, und
Figur 6
einen Längsschnitt durch die Ventilanordnung gemäß Schnittlinie VI-VI aus Figur 5.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this show:
FIG. 1
a preferred embodiment of the valve arrangement according to the invention in an oblique view,
FIG. 2
an exploded view of the valve assembly FIG. 1 wherein a valve unit is illustrated in the raised state from the associated valve carrier module,
FIG. 3
a bottom view of the valve assembly as seen from arrow III FIG. 1 , wherein schematically the internal channel course is illustrated,
FIG. 4
a longitudinal section through the valve assembly according to section line IV-IV FIG. 3 .
FIG. 5
one with FIG. 3 comparable bottom view of the valve assembly in a different equipment of the manifold assembly, and
FIG. 6
a longitudinal section through the valve assembly according to section line VI-VI FIG. 5 ,

Die in ihrer Gesamtheit mit Bezugsziffer 1 bezeichnete Ventilanordnung enthält eine mit mehreren elektrisch betätigbaren Ventileinheiten 2 bestückte Verteilerbaugruppe 3. Die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 erstreckt sich linear entlang einer Hauptachse 4, die beim Ausführungsbeispiel gleichzeitig die Längsachse der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 bildet.The valve assembly, designated in its entirety by reference numeral 1, contains a manifold assembly 3 equipped with a plurality of electrically operable valve assemblies 2. The manifold assembly 3 extends linearly along a major axis 4, which simultaneously forms the longitudinal axis of the manifold assembly 3.

Die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 ist modular aufgebaut. Sie enthält eine Mehrzahl von individuellen Verteilermodulen 5, die in einer durch einen Doppelpfeil angedeuteten Aufreihungsrichtung 6 aneinandergereiht sind. Die Aufreihungsrichtung 6 fällt mit der Hauptachse 4 zusammen.The distributor assembly 3 is modular. It contains a plurality of individual distribution modules 5, which in a direction indicated by a double arrow Aufreihungsrichtung 6 are strung together. The alignment direction 6 coincides with the main axis 4.

Die einzelnen Verteilermodule 5 sind zweckmäßigerweise blockförmig oder plattenförmig ausgebildet. Sie bestehen zweckmäßigerweise aus Metall oder aus Kunststoffmaterial.The individual distributor modules 5 are expediently block-shaped or plate-shaped. They are suitably made of metal or plastic material.

Jedes Verteilermodul 5 hat an jeder einem benachbarten Verteilermodul 5 zugewandten Seite eine Fügefläche 7. Die beiden am Ende der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 angeordneten Verteilermodule 5, die im Folgenden auch als erstes und zweites End-Verteilermodul 5a, 5b bezeichnet werden, haben dementsprechend jeweils nur eine einzige Fügefläche 7, während die dazwischen angeordneten weiteren Verteilermodule 5 an ihren in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 einander entgegengesetzten Seiten jeweils eine Fügefläche 7 aufweisen.Each distributor module 5 has a joining surface 7 on each side facing an adjacent distributor module 5. The two distributor modules 5 arranged at the end of the distributor module 3, which are also referred to below as the first and second final distributor modules 5a, 5b, accordingly each have only a single one Joining surface 7, while the further distributor modules 5 arranged therebetween each have a joining surface 7 at their sides which are opposite one another in the line-up direction 6.

Die Verteilermodule 5 sind mit einander zugewandten Fügeflächen 7 aneinander angesetzt. Der Kontaktbereich zweier Fügeflächen 7 bildet dabei jeweils einen Fügebereich 8. In dem Fügebereich 8 sind zwischen den aneinandergesetzten Verteilermodulen 5 zweckmäßigerweise Dichtungsmittel 12 angeordnet, die eine fluiddichte Verbindung ermöglichen.The distributor modules 5 are attached to one another with mutually facing joining surfaces 7. The contact region of two joining surfaces 7 forms a joining region 8 in each case. In the joining region 8 sealing means 12 are expediently arranged between the juxtaposed distributor modules 5, which allow a fluid-tight connection.

Befestigungsmittel 13 halten die Verteilermodule 5 in bevorzugt lösbarer Weise zusammen. Exemplarisch sind die Befestigungsmittel 13 von Zugankern gebildet, die sich durch die Verteilermodule 5 in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 hindurch erstrecken und alle Verteilermodule 5 in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 zusammenspannen. Alternativ besteht auch die Möglichkeit, eine mechanische Verbindung individuell zwischen jedem Paar aneinander angesetzter Verteilermodule 5 vorzusehen.Fasteners 13 hold the distributor modules 5 together in a preferably detachable manner. By way of example, the fastening means 13 are formed by tie rods, which extend through the distributor modules 5 in the line-up direction 6 and span all the distributor modules 5 in the line-up direction 6. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide a mechanical connection individually between each pair of adjoining distributor modules 5.

Mehrere der Verteilermodule 5 sind als Ventilträgermodule 14 konzipiert, die jeweils mindestens eine und bevorzugt genau eine der schon erwähnten Ventileinheiten 2 tragen. Exemplarisch verfügt die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 über insgesamt vier unmittelbar aneinander angesetzte Ventilträgermodule 14, die jeweils mit einer Ventileinheit 2 bestückt sind.Several of the distributor modules 5 are designed as valve carrier modules 14 which each carry at least one and preferably exactly one of the already mentioned valve units 2. By way of example, the distributor assembly 3 has a total of four directly adjacent valve carrier modules 14, each of which is equipped with a valve unit 2.

Die Ventileinheiten 2 sind zweckmäßigerweise individuell am jeweils zugeordneten Ventilträgermodul 14 befestigt. Exemplarisch sind sie mit einer Grundfläche 15 voraus an einer rechtwinkelig zur Hauptachse 4 orientierten Bestückungsfläche 16 des betreffenden Ventilträgermoduls 4 montiert. Bei nicht näher gezeigten Ausführungsvarianten ist jede Ventileinheit 2 mit wenigstens einem Teil ihrer Bauhöhe versenkt im zugeordneten Ventilträgermodul 14 untergebracht. Es besteht auch die Möglichkeit, jede Ventileinheit 2 unter einer individuellen Abdeckhaube zu platzieren, die am zugeordneten Ventilträgermodul 14 lösbar befestigt ist.The valve units 2 are expediently fastened individually to the respectively assigned valve carrier module 14. By way of example, they are mounted with a base 15 ahead on a fitting surface 16 of the relevant valve support module 4 oriented at right angles to the main axis 4. In embodiments not shown in detail each valve unit 2 is sunk with at least part of its height housed in the associated valve support module 14. It is also possible to place each valve unit 2 under an individual cover, which is releasably attached to the associated valve support module 14.

Die beiden End-Verteilermodule 5a, 5b sind zweckmäßigerweise nicht mit einer Ventileinheit bestückt und dienen lediglich der fluidischen und bevorzugt auch elektrischen Kommunikation der Ventilanordnung 1 mit der Außenwelt. Das erste End-Verteilermodul 5a ist als ein keine Ventileinheit aufweisendes erstes Anschlussmodul 17 ausgebildet, das zweite End-Verteilermodul 5b als keine Ventileinheit aufweisendes zweites Anschlussmodul 18.The two end distribution modules 5a, 5b are expediently not equipped with a valve unit and serve only for the fluidic and preferably also electrical communication of the valve arrangement 1 with the outside world. The first end distributor module 5a is designed as a first connection module 17 not having a valve unit, the second end distributor module 5b as a second connection module 18 having no valve unit.

Wenn die fluidische und elektrische Kommunikation anderweitig erfolgt, können eines oder beide Anschlussmodule 17, 18 auch durch einfache, keine Anschlussmöglichkeiten aufweisende Abschlussmodule ersetzt werden. Des Weiteren besteht die Möglichkeit, nur eines der End-Verteilermodule 5a oder 5b als Anschlussmodul zu nutzen und das andere End-Verteilermodul als einfaches Abschlussmodul auszuführen.If the fluidic and electrical communication takes place otherwise, one or both connection modules 17, 18 can also be replaced by simple termination modules having no connection possibilities. Furthermore, it is possible to use only one of the end distribution modules 5a or 5b as Use connection module and run the other end distribution module as a simple termination module.

Exemplarisch erstreckt sich durch alle Verteilermodule 5 hindurch ein in Figuren 3 und 5 nur strichpunktiert angedeuteter Verteiler-Speisekanal 22. Parallel zu dem Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 erstrecken sich zwei Verteiler-Abführkanäle 23, 24 durch die Verteilermodule 5 hindurch, die in Figuren 3 und 5 wiederum nur strichpunktiert angedeutet sind. Alternativ kann auch nur ein solcher Verteiler-Abführkanal 24 vorhanden sein. Der Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 ist zum Beispiel an dem ersten Anschlussmodul 17 über eine Speise-Anschlussöffnung 25 zugänglich, an der im Betrieb der Ventilanordnung 1 über eine Fluidleitung eine Druckquelle P angeschlossen ist.By way of example, extends through all distribution modules 5 through a in Figures 3 and 5 Distributor feed channel 22 indicated only by dash-dot lines. Parallel to the distributor feed channel 22, two distributor discharge passages 23, 24 extend through the distributor modules 5, which in FIG Figures 3 and 5 again indicated only by dash-dotted lines. Alternatively, only one such distributor-discharge channel 24 may be present. The distributor feed channel 22 is accessible, for example, at the first connection module 17 via a feed connection opening 25, to which a pressure source P is connected via a fluid line during operation of the valve arrangement 1.

Jeder Verteiler-Abführkanal 23, 24 mündet zum Beispiel am ersten Anschlussmodul 17 mit einer Abführ-Anschlussöffnung 26 aus, die im Betrieb der Ventilanordnung 1 mit einer Drucksenke R, insbesondere mit der Atmosphäre, in Verbindung steht. Am entgegengesetzten Ende im Bereich des zweiten Anschlussmoduls 18 sind der Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 und jeder Verteiler-Abführkanal 23, 24 fluiddicht verschlossen. Allerdings können sich dort auch alternativ nutzbare Anschlussöffnungen 25, 26 befinden.Each distributor-discharge channel 23, 24 opens, for example, at the first connection module 17 with a discharge connection opening 26, which is in operation of the valve assembly 1 with a pressure sink R, in particular with the atmosphere in communication. At the opposite end in the region of the second connection module 18, the distributor feed channel 22 and each distributor discharge channel 23, 24 are closed in a fluid-tight manner. However, alternatively usable connection openings 25, 26 can also be located there.

Jedes Ventilträgermodul 14 ist von mehreren rechtwinkelig zur Hauptachse 4 nebeneinander angeordneten Kanalabschnitten 22', 23', 24' in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 durchsetzt, die zu den beiden einander entgegengesetzten Fügeflächen 7 ausmünden. Im aneinander angesetzten Zustand der Verteilermodule 5 fluchten die in den einzelnen Ventilträgermodulen 14 ausgebildeten Kanalabschnitte 22', 23', 24' miteinander und ergänzen sich zur Bildung des erwähnten Verteiler-Speisekanals 22 und des mindestens einen Verteiler-Abführkanals 23, 24.Each valve support module 14 is penetrated by a plurality of perpendicular to the main axis 4 adjacent channel sections 22 ', 23', 24 'in the alignment direction 6, which lead to the two mutually opposite joining surfaces 7. In juxtaposed state of the distributor modules 5 aligned in the individual valve support modules 14 channel sections 22 ', 23', 24 'aligned with each other and complement each other Forming the mentioned distributor feed channel 22 and the at least one distributor-discharge channel 23, 24th

Ähnlich wie die eben erwähnten Kanäle erstreckt sich in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 durch die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 zweckmäßigerweise auch ein Signalverteilerkanal 27, der sich im Bereich der Ventilträgermodule 14 aus miteinander fluchtenden und die einzelnen Ventilträgermodule 14 in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 durchsetzenden Kanalabschnitten 27' zusammensetzt. Der Signalverteilerkanal 27 setzt sich zweckmäßigerweise auch in dem ersten Anschlussmodul 14 fort. Im Innern des Signalverteilerkanals 27 verläuft ein für eine elektrische Signalübertragung geeigneter Signalverteilungsstrang 28, der zum Beispiel im Bereich des ersten Anschlussmoduls 17 mit Signalverteiler-Anschlussmitteln 32 versehen ist, die im Betrieb der Ventilanordnung 1 mit einer schematisch angedeuteten elektronischen Steuereinrichtung 33 signaltechnisch und insbesondere elektrisch verbunden sind.Similar to the channels just mentioned, a distributor channel 27 expediently also extends in the line-up direction 6 through the distributor assembly 3, which in the region of the valve carrier modules 14 is composed of mutually aligned channel sections 27 'passing through the individual valve carrier modules 14 in the line-up direction 6. The signal distribution channel 27 expediently continues in the first connection module 14. In the interior of the signal distribution channel 27, a suitable signal transmission for a signal transmission line 28, which is provided for example in the region of the first connection module 17 with signal distributor connection means 32 which in the operation of the valve assembly 1 with a schematically indicated electronic control device 33 signal technology and in particular electrically connected are.

Der Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 mündet an der Bestückungsfläche 16 jedes Ventilträgermoduls 14 mit einer Verbindungsöffnung 22a aus. Jeder Verteiler-Abführkanal 23, 24 mündet zur Bestückungsfläche 16 jedes Ventilträgermoduls 14 mit einer Verbindungsöffnung 23a, 24a aus.The distributor feed channel 22 opens out at the loading surface 16 of each valve carrier module 14 with a connection opening 22a. Each distributor-discharge channel 23, 24 opens to the mounting surface 16 of each valve support module 14 with a connection opening 23a, 24a.

Jede Ventileinheit 2 weist mehrere interne Ventilkanäle 34 auf, die zu der Grundfläche 15 ausmünden. Ein insbesondere als Ventilschieber ausgebildetes Ventilglied 35 ist im Innern der Ventileinheit 2 zwischen verschiedenen Schaltstellungen umschaltbar angeordnet und ist in der Lage, die Ventilkanäle 34 in unterschiedlichem Muster miteinander zu verbinden und voneinander abzutrennen. Exemplarisch weist jede Ventileinheit eine 5/2-Ventilfunktion auf und ist in der Lage, jeden von zwei Ventil-Arbeitskanälen 34a, 34b der Ventilkanäle 34 wahlweise mit entweder einem Ventil-Einspeisekanal 34c oder einem von zwei Ventil-Abführkanälen 34d, 34e der Ventilkanäle 34 zu verbinden.Each valve unit 2 has a plurality of internal valve channels 34, which lead to the base 15. A particular designed as a valve spool valve member 35 is disposed switchable between different switching positions in the interior of the valve unit 2 and is able to connect the valve channels 34 in different patterns with each other and separate from each other. By way of example, each valve unit has a 5/2-valve function and is capable of each of two valve working channels 34a, 34b of the valve channels 34th optionally with either a valve inlet channel 34c or one of two valve-Abführkanälen 34d, 34e of the valve channels 34 to connect.

Die Ventileinheit 2 kann von direkt elektrisch betätigbarer Bauart sein, wobei das Ventilglied 35 elektromechanisch umschaltbar ist. Vorzugsweise ist jedoch jede Ventileinheit 2 in Übereinstimmung mit dem Ausführungsbeispiel als elektro-fluidisch vorgesteuertes Mehrwegeventil konzipiert. Hierbei sind das Ventilglied 35 und die erwähnten Ventilkanäle 34 Bestandteile eines Hauptventils 36 der Ventileinheit 2, wobei die Ventileinheit 2 außerdem noch eine elektro-fluidisch arbeitende Vorsteuerventileinrichtung 37 aufweist, die das Ventilglied 35 des Hauptventils 36 auf der Basis empfangener elektrischer Steuersignale in an sich bekannter Weise durch Fluidkraft umschaltet. Die Vorsteuerventileinrichtung 37 arbeitet hierbei quasi als fluidisches Relais, wobei dem Hauptventil 36 zum Umschalten ein Vorsteuerfluid auferlegt wird, das beispielsweise im Innern des Hauptventils 36 von dem Ventil-Einspeisekanal 34c abgezweigt wird. Möglich ist allerdings auch eine gesonderte Einspeisung des Vorsteuerfluides über die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 durchziehende und auch zu den Bestückungsflächen 16 ausmündende Ventilträger-Vorsteuerkanäle.The valve unit 2 may be of directly electrically actuated design, wherein the valve member 35 is electromechanically switchable. Preferably, however, each valve unit 2 is designed in accordance with the embodiment as an electro-fluid pilot-operated multiway valve. Here, the valve member 35 and the aforementioned valve channels 34 are components of a main valve 36 of the valve unit 2, wherein the valve unit 2 also has an electro-fluidically operating pilot valve means 37, the valve member 35 of the main valve 36 on the basis of received electrical control signals in per se known Switch mode by fluid power. The pilot valve device 37 acts as a kind of fluidic relay, the main valve 36 for switching a pilot fluid is imposed, which is branched off, for example, in the interior of the main valve 36 of the valve-inlet channel 34c. However, it is also possible a separate feed of the pilot fluid via the distributor assembly 3 passing and also to the mounting surfaces 16 ausmündende valve carrier pilot channels.

Die Vorsteuerventileinrichtung 37 ist im Bereich der Grundfläche 15 mit elektrischen Kontaktmitteln 39 versehen, die im an der Bestückungsfläche 16 montierten Zustand der Ventileinheit 2 in den zugeordneten Kanalabschnitt 27' des Signalverteilerkanals 27 eingreifen und darin mit dem Signalverteilungsstrang 28 lösbar elektrisch verbunden sind. Auf diese Weise können die Ventileinheiten 2 von der externen elektronischen Steuereinrichtung 33 die für ihren Betrieb erforderlichen elektrischen Steuersignale empfangen oder auch Rückmeldesignale an die elektronische Steuereinrichtung 33 ausgeben.The pilot valve device 37 is provided in the region of the base surface 15 with electrical contact means 39 which engage in the mounted on the mounting surface 16 state of the valve unit 2 in the associated channel portion 27 'of the signal distribution channel 27 and are releasably electrically connected thereto in the signal distribution line 28. In this way, the valve units 2 can receive from the external electronic control device 33 required for their operation electrical control signals or feedback signals to the electronic control device 33 output.

Jede montierte Ventileinheit 2 steht mit ihrem Ventil-Einspeisekanal 34c über die Verbindungsöffnung 22a des zugeordneten Ventilträgermoduls 14 mit dem Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 in Fluidverbindung. Auf diese Weise steht an jeder Ventileinheit 2 ein ausgehend von der Druckquelle P in den Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 eingespeistes Arbeitsfluid zur Verteilung zur Verfügung. Außerdem steht jeder Ventil-Abführkanal 34d, 34e jeder montierten Ventileinheit 2 über die zugeordnete Verbindungsöffnung 23a, 24a mit einem der Verteiler-Abführkanäle 23, 24 in Fluidverbindung.Each assembled valve unit 2 is in fluid communication with its manifold feed passage 34c via the communication port 22a of the associated valve support module 14 to the manifold feed passage 22. In this way, at each valve unit 2 is a starting from the pressure source P in the distribution feed channel 22 fed working fluid for distribution available. In addition, each valve discharge passage 34d, 34e of each assembled valve unit 2 is in fluid communication with one of the manifold discharge passages 23, 24 via the associated communication port 23a, 24a.

Mit Hilfe der Ventileinheiten 2 können ein oder mehrere mittels Fluidkraft betätigbare Verbraucher 38, von denen einer schematisch angedeutet ist, betätigt werden. Der externe Verbraucher ist insbesondere ein fluidbetätigter Antrieb, beispielsweise ein Linearantrieb oder ein Drehantrieb. Exemplarisch hat jeder anzusteuernde Verbraucher 38 zwei Arbeitsanschlüsse 38a, 38b, die dazu vorgesehen sind, ein unter Druck stehendes Arbeitsfluid zuzuführen oder abzuführen, um ein bewegliches Arbeitsglied 41 des Verbrauchers 38 zu bewegen. Das zuzuführende Arbeitsfluid entstammt dem Verteiler-Speisekanal 22. Das abzuführende Arbeitsfluid wird unter Verwendung des einen oder anderen Verteiler-Abführkanals 23, 24 abgeführt. Dabei kommen jeweils ein oder mehrere in der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 verlaufende Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 zum Einsatz, die die Fluidverbindung zwischen jeweils einer Ventileinheit 2 und einem Verbraucher 38 herstellen.With the help of the valve units 2, one or more actuatable by means of fluid power load 38, one of which is indicated schematically, are operated. The external consumer is in particular a fluid-actuated drive, for example a linear drive or a rotary drive. By way of example, each consumer 38 to be controlled has two working ports 38a, 38b which are provided to supply or discharge a pressurized working fluid to move a movable working member 41 of the consumer 38. The working fluid to be supplied comes from the distribution feeder passage 22. The working fluid to be discharged is discharged by using one or the other distribution discharge passage 23, 24. In each case, one or more in the manifold assembly 3 extending valve carrier working channels 43, 44 are used, which establish the fluid connection between each of a valve unit 2 and a consumer 38.

Bevorzugt ist jedes Ventilträgermodul 14 mit zwei voneinander unabhängigen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen 43, 44 ausgestattet, die im Folgenden zur besseren Unterscheidung auch als erster Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43 und zweiter Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 44 bezeichnet werden. Der erste Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43 mündet mit einer Verbindungsöffnung 43a derart zu der Bestückungsfläche 16 aus, dass er mit dem einen Ventil-Arbeitskanal 34a der Ventileinheit 2 in Fluidverbindung steht. Der andere, zweite Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 44 mündet über eine Verbindungsöffnung 44a derart zu der Bestückungsfläche 16 aus, dass er mit dem anderen, zweiten Ventil-Arbeitskanal 34b der Ventileinheit 2 kommuniziert. Durch entsprechende Ansteuerung der Ventileinheit 2 kann somit erreicht werden, dass die beiden Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 abwechselnd jeweils mit dem Verteiler-Speisekanal 22 oder mit einem der Verteiler-Abführkanäle 23, 24 verbunden sind.Each valve support module 14 is preferably equipped with two mutually independent valve carrier working channels 43, 44, which in the following also serve as the first one for a better distinction Valve carrier working channel 43 and second valve carrier working channel 44 are designated. The first valve carrier working channel 43 opens with a connection opening 43 a to the mounting surface 16 in such a way that it is in fluid communication with the one valve working channel 34 a of the valve unit 2. The other, second valve carrier working channel 44 discharges via a connection opening 44a to the mounting surface 16 so that it communicates with the other, second valve working channel 34b of the valve unit 2. By appropriate control of the valve unit 2 can thus be achieved that the two valve carrier working channels 43, 44 are alternately connected to the distributor feed channel 22 or with one of the distributor-discharge channels 23, 24.

Jeder erste Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43 führt zu mindestens einer außen an der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 abseits von der Bestückungsfläche 16 angeordneten ersten Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b. Außerdem steht jeder zweite Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 44 mit mindestens einer ebenfalls im Bereich einer Außenfläche der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 abseits von der Bestückungsfläche 16 angeordneten zweiten Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 44b in Verbindung. Jede Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b ist verwendbar, um einen zu betätigenden externen Verbraucher 38 mittels einer in der Zeichnung jeweils als Pfeil illustrierten Fluidleitung 40 anzuschließen. Zweckmäßigerweise ist jede Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b mit Befestigungsmitteln ausgestattet, die ein bevorzugt lösbares Befestigen einer zu dem Verbraucher 38 führenden Fluidleitung ermöglichen. Die Befestigungsmittel sind beispielsweise in Form von Befestigungsgewinden oder von Steckanschlussverbindern 42 realisiert.Each first valve carrier working channel 43 leads to at least one outer consumer connection opening 43b arranged on the outside of the distributor assembly 3, away from the assembly surface 16. In addition, every second valve carrier working channel 44 communicates with at least one second consumer connection opening 44b, which is likewise arranged in the region of an outer surface of the distributor assembly 3 away from the assembly surface 16. Each consumer connection opening 43b, 44b can be used to connect an external consumer 38 to be actuated by means of a fluid line 40 illustrated in the drawing as an arrow. Expediently, each consumer connection opening 43b, 44b is equipped with fastening means which allow a preferably detachable fastening of a fluid line leading to the consumer 38. The fastening means are realized, for example, in the form of fastening threads or plug connectors 42.

Exemplarisch befinden sich die Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b an einer den Bestückungsflächen 16 entgegengesetzten Außenfläche des betreffenden Verteilermoduls 5. Sie können aber beispielsweise auch an den rechtwinkelig zu den Bestückungsflächen 16 ausgerichteten Stirnflächen der Verteilermodule 5 ausmünden.By way of example, the consumer connection openings 43b, 44b are located opposite to the mounting surfaces 16 But they can also, for example, at the perpendicular to the mounting surfaces 16 aligned end faces of the manifold modules 5 open.

Indem beispielsweise eine erste Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b mit dem einen Arbeitsanschluss 38a und eine zweite Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 44b mit dem anderen Arbeitsanschluss 38b eines als fluidbetätigter Antrieb ausgebildeten Verbrauchers 38 verbunden sind, kann das Arbeitsglied 41 durch entsprechende Betätigung der zugeordneten Ventileinheit 2 zu einer hin und her gehenden Arbeitsbewegung angetrieben werden.By, for example, a first consumer connection opening 43b having one working connection 38a and a second consumer connection opening 44b being connected to the other working connection 38b of a consumer 38 designed as a fluid-actuated drive, the working element 41 can be moved towards and away by corresponding actuation of the associated valve unit 2 be driven forth walking work movement.

Zweckmäßigerweise ist die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 mit mindestens einem Ventilträgermodul 14 ausgestattet, dessen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 ausschließlich zu einer Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b führen, die ein Bestandteil dieses Ventilträgermoduls 14 sind. Beim Ausführungsbeispiel trifft dies auf die beiden rechten der hier insgesamt vier Ventilträgermodule 14 zu. Diese mit ausschließlich am gleichen Ventilträgermodul 14 ausgebildeten Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b verbundenen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle seien im Folgenden zur besseren Unterscheidung auch als individuelle Ventilträger Arbeitskanäle 45 bezeichnet. Ein dort angeschlossener Verbraucher wird ausschließlich mit einer Fluid-Strömungsrate betrieben, die durch die am betreffenden Ventilträgermodul 14 montierte Ventileinheit 2 bestimmt ist.Conveniently, the manifold assembly 3 is equipped with at least one valve support module 14, the valve support working channels 43, 44 lead exclusively to a consumer connection port 43b, 44b, which are a part of this valve support module 14. In the embodiment, this applies to the two right of the total here four valve support modules 14. These valve carrier working channels, which are connected to consumer connection openings 43b, 44b formed exclusively on the same valve carrier module 14, will also be referred to as individual valve carriers working channels 45 for better distinction. A consumer connected there is operated exclusively with a fluid flow rate which is determined by the valve unit 2 mounted on the relevant valve support module 14.

Darüber hinaus enthält die Verteilerbaugruppe 3 zusätzlich noch mehrere Ventilträgermodule 14, deren erste Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43 unter Bildung eines ersten Sammel-Arbeitskanals 46 fluidisch miteinander verbunden sind und deren zweite Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 44 unabhängig von den ersten Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen 43 unter Bildung eines zweiten Sammel-Arbeitskanal 47 fluidisch verbunden sind. Es liegt somit eine Parallelschaltung mehrerer erster Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43 und mehrerer zweiter Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 44 vor.In addition, the manifold assembly 3 additionally includes a plurality of valve support modules 14, the first valve carrier working channels 43 are fluidly connected to form a first collecting working channel 46 and their second valve support working channels 44 are fluidly connected independently of the first valve support working channels 43 to form a second collection working channel 47. Thus, there is a parallel connection of a plurality of first valve carrier working channels 43 and a plurality of second valve carrier working channels 44.

Die Fluidverbindung der zu einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 verschalteten Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43 bzw. 44 findet jeweils im Fügebereich 8 zwischen den aneinander angesetzten Ventilträgermodulen 14 statt und bezieht sich beim Ausführungsbeispiel auf die beiden linken der hier insgesamt vier Ventilträgermodule 14. Am einfachsten erzielt man die Fluidverbindung dadurch, dass in den Ventilträgermodulen 14 jeweils mindestens ein mit dem betreffenden Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43 oder 44 verbundener Querverbindungskanal 48 ausgebildet ist, der zu der relevanten Fügefläche 7 des betreffenden Ventilträgermoduls 14 ausmündet, sodass die Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43 bzw. 44 benachbarter Ventilträgermodule 14 in ihrem Fügebereich 8 direkt miteinander kommunizieren.The fluid connection of the interconnected to a collecting working channel 46, 47 valve carrier working channels 43 and 44 takes place in each case in the joining region 8 between the juxtaposed valve support modules 14 and refers in the embodiment on the two left of the total here four valve support modules 14 achieved the simplest The fluid connection is formed by the fact that at least one cross-connection channel 48 connected to the relevant valve carrier working channel 43 or 44 is formed in the valve carrier modules 14, which opens out to the relevant joining surface 7 of the relevant valve carrier module 14, so that the valve carrier working channels 43 and 44 are adjacent Valve carrier modules 14 communicate directly with each other in their joining area 8.

Bevorzugt handelt es sich bei den die zu einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 verschalteten Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 aufweisenden Ventilträgermodulen 14 um solche Ventilträgermodule 14, die in der Aufreihungsrichtung 6 unmittelbar aneinander angesetzt sind. Dies trifft auf beide Ausführungsbeispiele zu.The valve carrier modules 14 having the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 interconnected to a collecting working channel 46, 47 are preferably those valve carrier modules 14 which are set directly adjacent to one another in the line-up direction 6. This applies to both embodiments.

Beide Ausführungsbeispiele verdeutlichen auch, dass innerhalb der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 mehrere voneinander unabhängige, das heißt fluidisch nicht miteinander kommunizierende Sammel-Arbeitskanäle 46, 47 gebildet sein können, was hier auf zum einen den ersten Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46 und zum anderen den zweiten Sammel-Arbeitskanal 47 zutrifft. Es ist allerdings auch eine Ausführungsform möglich, bei der mindestens eine Gruppe von Ventilträgermodulen 14 nur einen einzigen Sammel-Arbeitskanal bildet. Dies ist insbesondere dann der Fall, wenn die Ventilträgermodule 14 abweichend vom Ausführungsbeispiel zur Bestückung mit über eine 3/2-Ventilfunktion verfügenden Ventileinheiten 2 ausgebildet sind und jedes Ventilträgermodul 14 von Hause aus nur einen einzigen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal aufweist. Insofern gilt die vorliegende Beschreibung analog auch für Fälle, in denen mehrere Ventilträgermodule 14 unter Bildung lediglich eines einzigen Sammel-Arbeitskanals miteinander kombiniert sind.Both embodiments also illustrate that within the manifold assembly 3, a plurality of mutually independent, that is not fluidly communicating with each other collecting working channels 46, 47 may be formed, which here on the one hand, the first collecting working channel 46 and the other second collection working channel 47 applies. However, it is also an embodiment possible in which at least one group of valve support modules 14 forms only a single collecting working channel. This is the case in particular if the valve carrier modules 14 differ from the exemplary embodiment for being equipped with valve units 2 having a 3/2-valve function and each valve carrier module 14 has only a single valve carrier working channel. In this respect, the present description applies analogously to cases in which a plurality of valve support modules 14 are combined to form only a single collecting working channel.

In Figur 6 ist darüber hinaus gepunktet eine weitere Ausführungsvariante angedeutet, bei der ein weiterer Sammel-Arbeitskanal 52 von den Arbeitskanälen 43 oder 44 einer anderen Gruppe von Ventilträgermodulen 14 gebildet ist als derjenigen, die die schon beschriebenen ersten und zweiten Sammel-Arbeitskanäle 46, 47 definieren. Dies macht deutlich, dass innerhalb der Verteilerbaugruppe 3 ohne weiteres mehrere Gruppen von Ventilträgermodulen 14 vorhanden sein können, die über eigene Sammel-Arbeitskanäle verfügen und bei denen die zu der einen Modulgruppe gehörenden Ventilträgermodule 14 andere Ventilträgermodule als diejenigen sind, die zu der anderen Modulgruppe gehören.In FIG. 6 In addition, a further embodiment variant is indicated, in which a further collecting working channel 52 is formed by the working channels 43 or 44 of another group of valve carrier modules 14 than those defining the first and second collecting working channels 46, 47 already described. This makes it clear that within the manifold assembly 3, several groups of valve support modules 14 may readily be present that have their own collection work channels and in which the valve support modules 14 belonging to one module group are valve carrier modules other than those belonging to the other module group ,

Gleichwohl ist es auch möglich, mehrere jeweils mindestens einen Sammel-Arbeitskanal definierende Modulgruppen von Ventilträgermodulen 14 vorzusehen, bei denen ein Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal eines Ventilträgermoduls 14 zur Bildung von Sammel-Arbeitskanälen beider Modulgruppen beiträgt.Nevertheless, it is also possible to provide several module groups of valve carrier modules 14, each defining at least one collective working channel, in which a valve carrier working channel of a valve carrier module 14 contributes to the formation of collective working channels of both module groups.

Wie schon erwähnt, verfügt zweckmäßigerweise jedes Ventilträgermodul 14 pro Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43, 44 über eine Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b. Dies gilt zweckmäßigerweise auch für diejenigen Ventilträgermodule 14, deren Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 zur Bildung eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals 46, 47 fluidisch miteinander verbunden sind. Dies hat letztlich als Konsequenz, dass jeder Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 mit gleichzeitig mehreren Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b oder 44b kommuniziert.As already mentioned, each valve carrier module 14 expediently has one valve carrier working channel 43, 44 Consumer connection port 43b, 44b. This also expediently applies to those valve carrier modules 14 whose valve carrier working channels 43, 44 are fluidically connected to one another to form a collecting working channel 46, 47. Ultimately, this has the consequence that each collecting working channel 46, 47 communicates with a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b or 44b at the same time.

Bevorzugt sind von den einem Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 zugeordneten mehreren Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b alle bis auf einen durch jeweils ein Verschlussmittel 53 fluiddicht verschlossen. Exemplarisch ist ein solches Verschlussmittel 53 als Verschlussschraube ausgebildet, die in die zugeordnete, mit einem Innengewinde versehene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b eingeschraubt ist. Auf diese Weise verbleibt pro Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 nur eine offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung, die in der Zeichnung zur besseren Unterscheidung ergänzend mit Bezugsziffer 54 versehen ist. An dieser offenen Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54 ist jeweils ein Verbraucher anschließbar oder angeschlossen, exemplarisch an einem seiner Arbeitsanschlüsse 38a, 38b und unter Vermittlung jeweils einer Fluidleitung 40.Preferably, a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b, 44b assigned to a collecting working channel 46, 47 are all closed in a fluid-tight manner, except for one each by a closure means 53. By way of example, such a closure means 53 is designed as a closure screw, which is screwed into the associated, provided with an internal thread consumer connection opening 43b, 44b. In this way, per collecting working channel 46, 47 remains only an open consumer connection opening, which is additionally provided in the drawing for better distinction with reference numeral 54. In each case, a consumer can be connected or connected to this open consumer connection opening 54, by way of example at one of its working connections 38a, 38b and by mediation of a respective fluid line 40.

Somit kann ein an eine offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54 eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals 46, 47 angeschlossener Verbraucher 38, bei dem es sich insbesondere um einen fluidbetätigten Antrieb handelt, bei Bedarf mit einer Fluid-Durchflussrate versorgt werden, die sich aus der Summe der Durchflussraten zusammensetzt, die durch die dem Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 gemeinsam zugeordneten mehreren Ventileinheiten 2 zur Verfügung gestellt werden können.Thus, a consumer 38 connected to an open consumer port 54 of a collecting working channel 46, 47, which is in particular a fluid-operated drive, can be supplied with a fluid flow rate, if necessary, composed of the sum of the flow rates which can be provided by the plurality of valve units 2 commonly associated with the collecting working channel 46, 47.

In diesem Zusammenhang versteht es sich, dass abweichend vom Ausführungsbeispiel auch die Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 von mehr als nur zwei Ventilträgermodulen 14 zur Bildung eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals 46, 47 fluidisch miteinander verbunden sein können.In this context, it is understood that, unlike the embodiment, the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 of more than just two valve support modules 14 to form a collecting working channel 46, 47 may be fluidly connected to each other.

Um einen angeschlossenen Verbraucher 38 mit erhöhtem Durchfluss zu betätigen, werden diejenigen Ventileinheiten 2, die einen zum gleichen Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 gehörenden Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43, 44 steuern, zumindest zeitweilig gleichzeitig gleichsinnig betätigt, also entweder gleichzeitig in eine den Verbraucher 38 versorgende Versorgungsstellung oder gleichzeitig in eine die Fluidabfuhr vom Verbraucher 38 bewirkende Abführstellung geschaltet.In order to actuate a connected consumer 38 with increased flow, those valve units 2 which control a valve carrier working channel 43, 44 belonging to the same collecting working channel 46, are at least temporarily simultaneously actuated in the same direction, ie either simultaneously supplying the consumer 38 Supply position or at the same time in a fluid discharge from the consumer 38 causing Abführstellung switched.

Es besteht auch die Möglichkeit, die Ventileinheiten 2 unter Vermittlung der elektronischen Steuereinrichtung 33 so anzusteuern, dass zum gleichen Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 gehörende Ventileinheiten 2 in einem gewissen zeitlichen Versatz angesteuert werden, um beispielsweise einen abgestuften Druckaufbau oder Druckabbau in dem angeschlossenen Verbraucher 38 hervorzurufen.It is also possible to control the valve units 2 by means of the electronic control device 33 so that the same collecting working channel 46, 47 associated valve units 2 are driven in a certain time offset, for example, a gradual pressure build-up or pressure reduction in the connected consumer 38th cause.

Entsprechend dem in Figuren 5 und 6 illustrierten Ausführungsbeispiel ist es möglich, unmittelbar eine der an einem der Ventilträgermodule 14 ausgebildeten Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b als mit einem Verbraucher 38 verbindbare offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54 zu nutzen. Bevorzugt steht jeder Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 mit nur einer einzigen offenen Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54 in Verbindung, die hier ein Bestandteil eines Ventilträgermoduls 14 sein kann.According to the in Figures 5 and 6 In the illustrated embodiment, it is possible to directly use one of the consumer connection openings 43b, 44b formed on one of the valve carrier modules 14 as an open consumer connection opening 54 which can be connected to a consumer 38. Preferably, each collecting working channel 46, 47 communicates with only a single open consumer connection opening 54, which may be a component of a valve carrier module 14 here.

Zusätzlich oder alternativ ist es aber auch möglich, mindestens einen Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 in mindestens ein Anschlussmodul 17, 18 hinein fortzusetzen und an diesem Anschlussmodul 17 und/oder 18 eine Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung vorzusehen, die zur Verbindung mit einem Verbraucher 38 nutzbar ist. Hierzu illustrieren die Figuren 3 und 4 eine mögliche Ausführungsform.Additionally or alternatively, however, it is also possible to continue at least one collecting working channel 46, 47 into at least one connection module 17, 18 and to this connection module 17 and / or 18 provide a consumer connection opening, which is available for connection to a consumer 38. To illustrate this the Figures 3 and 4 a possible embodiment.

Gemäß Figuren 3 und 4 setzt sich jeder Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 in das zweite Anschlussmodul 18 hinein fort. In dem zweiten Anschlussmodul 18 sind zwei Anschlusskanäle 55, 56 ausgebildet, die jeweils einerseits zu der dem benachbarten Ventilträgermodul 14 zugewandten Fügefläche 7 ausmünden und andererseits über eine an einer Außenfläche des zweiten Anschlussmoduls 18 zugänglichen Anschlussöffnung 57 ausmünden. In dem Fügebereich 8 zwischen dem zweiten Anschlussmodul 18 und dem benachbarten Ventilträgermodul 14 liegt, zum Beispiel mittels eines Querverbindungskanals 48, eine offene Fluidverbindung zwischen jedem Anschlusskanal 55, 56 und einem der Ventilträger-Arbeitskanäle 43, 44 des benachbarten Ventilträgermoduls 14 vor. Auf diese Weise ergibt sich eine Fluidverbindung zwischen den bereits fluidisch verbundenen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen 43 beziehungsweise 44 und jeweils einem der Anschlusskanäle 55 beziehungsweise 56, so dass sich jeder Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46 hier aus den Ventilträger-Arbeitskanälen 43, 44 mehrerer Ventilträgermodule 14 und einem Anschlusskanal 55, 56 eines Anschlussmoduls, hier des zweiten Anschlussmoduls 18, zusammensetzt. Auf diese Weise bildet die Anschlussöffnung 57 jedes Anschlusskanals 55, 56 eine erste beziehungsweise zweite Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b.According to Figures 3 and 4 Each collecting working channel 46, 47 continues into the second connection module 18. Two connection channels 55, 56 are formed in the second connection module 18, each opening on the one side to the joining surface 7 facing the adjacent valve support module 14 and on the other side opening out via a connection opening 57 accessible on an outer surface of the second connection module 18. In the joining region 8 between the second connection module 18 and the adjacent valve support module 14, there is, for example by means of a cross connection channel 48, an open fluid connection between each connection channel 55, 56 and one of the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 of the adjacent valve support module 14. In this way, there is a fluid connection between the already fluidly connected valve carrier working channels 43 and 44 and one of the connection channels 55 and 56, so that each collecting working channel 46 here from the valve carrier working channels 43, 44 a plurality of valve support modules 14 and a connection channel 55, 56 of a connection module, here the second connection module 18, composed. In this way, the connection opening 57 of each connection channel 55, 56 forms a first or second consumer connection opening 43b, 44b.

Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Figuren 3 und 4 ist pro Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 nur die am zweiten Anschlussmodul 18 ausgebildete Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b eine offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54. Die Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b der zum jeweils gleichen Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 beitragenden Ventilträgermodule 14 sind in der schon geschilderten Weise durch jeweils ein Verschlussmittel 53 verschlossen.In the embodiment of the Figures 3 and 4 For each collecting working channel 46, 47, only the consumer connection opening 43b, 44b formed on the second connection module 18 is an open consumer connection opening 54. The consumer connection openings 43b, 44b of the respectively same collecting working channel 46, 47 contributing valve support modules 14 are closed in the manner already described by a respective closure means 53.

Wenn mehrere Ventilträgermodule 14 gleichzeitig mehrere voneinander unabhängige Sammel-Arbeitskanäle 46, 47 definieren, die mit mehreren Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b versehen sind, kann der Nutzer der Ventilanordnung 1 frei auswählen, welche der Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnungen 43b, 44b er als offene Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 54 zum Anschließen eines Verbrauchers 38 nutzt.If a plurality of valve support modules 14 at the same time define a plurality of independent collection working channels 46, 47 provided with a plurality of consumer connection openings 43b, 44b, the user of the valve arrangement 1 can freely choose which of the consumer connection openings 43b, 44b he as an open consumer Terminal opening 54 for connecting a consumer 38 uses.

Wenn von vorneherein klar ist, dass stets nur eine ganz bestimmte Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b, 44b genutzt werden soll, kann bei mindestens einem der zur Bildung eines Sammel-Arbeitskanals 46, 47 beitragenden Ventilträgermodule 14 auf eine Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung 43b oder 44b auch verzichtet werden. Ein mit einem derartigen Ventilträger-Arbeitskanal 43, 44 ausgestattetes Ventilträgermodul 14 ist dann nur nutzbar, wenn ein anderes mit ihm verbundenes Ventilträgermodul 14 oder ein zugeordnetes Anschlussmodul über eine Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung verfügt.If it is clear from the outset that only a very specific consumer connection opening 43b, 44b is to be used, it is also possible to dispense with a consumer connection opening 43b or 44b in at least one of the valve support modules 14 contributing to the formation of a collecting working channel 46, 47 , A valve carrier module 14 equipped with such a valve carrier working channel 43, 44 can only be used if another valve carrier module 14 connected to it or an associated connection module has a consumer connection opening.

Auch wenn ein Anschlussmodul abweichend vom Ausführungsbeispiel zwischen zwei Ventilträgermodulen 14 angeordnet ist, kann es so ausgebildet sein, dass sich mindestens ein Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 durch es hindurch erstreckt und zu einer an diesem Zwischen-Anschlussmodul befindlichen Verbraucher-Anschlussöffnung führt.Although a connection module is arranged differently from the embodiment between two valve support modules 14, it may be formed so that at least one collecting working channel 46, 47 extends through it and leads to a located at this intermediate connection module consumer connection opening.

Die abgebildete Ventilanordnung 1 enthält eine Mischung aus Ventilträgermodulen 14, die mindestens einen individuellen Arbeitskanal 45 und mindestens einen Sammel-Arbeitskanal 46, 47 definieren. Hiervon abweichend kann allerdings auf nur mit mindestens einem individuellen Arbeitskanal 45 ausgestattete Ventilträgermodule 14 auch verzichtet werden.The illustrated valve assembly 1 includes a mixture of valve support modules 14 defining at least one individual working channel 45 and at least one collecting working channel 46, 47. Deviating from this, however, can only on At least one individual working channel 45 equipped valve carrier modules 14 are also dispensed with.

Claims (15)

  1. Valve assembly, with a modular distributor assembly (3), which has several distributor modules (5) mounted side by side in a direction of lining-up (6) and at the same time each attached to one another by facing joining surfaces (7) in a joining area (8), and of which at least several are each in the form of a valve carrier module (14) carrying at least one electrically actuable valve unit (2), wherein each of these valve units (2) has internal valve passages (34) for the supply and removal of an operating fluid and at least one valve operating passage (34a, 34b) for connection with an external load (38) to be actuated, and wherein there passes through each valve carrier module (14) at least one valve carrier operating passage (43, 44) connected to a valve operating passage (34a, 34b) of the valve unit (2) mounted on it and to which an external load (38) to be actuated may be connected by means of at least one load connection port (43b, 44b) located on the outside of the distributor assembly (3), characterised in that in the distributor assembly (3) in at least one joining area (8), the valve carrier operating passage (43, 44) of several valve carrier modules (14) make fluidic connection with one another to form at least one common operating passage (46, 47).
  2. Valve assembly according to claim 1, characterised in that valve carrier operating passages (43, 44) of several valve carrier modules (14) directly attached to one another in the direction of lining-up (6) are in fluidic connection with one another to form a common operating passage (46, 47).
  3. Valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that several common operating passages (46, 47), independent of one another, are formed within the distributor assembly (3).
  4. Valve assembly according to claim 3, characterised in that valve carrier operating passages (43, 44) of the same valve carrier module (14) are interconnected to form several common operating passages (46, 47), in particular two common operating passages (46, 47), which are independent of one another.
  5. Valve assembly according to claim 3 or 4, characterised in that several common operating passages (46, 47, 52), independent of one another, are provided in the distributor assembly (3), wherein at least one common operating passage (52) of these several common operating passages (46, 47, 52) is formed by the valve carrier operating passages (43, 44) of other valve carrier modules (14) as at least one other common operating passage (46, 47).
  6. Valve assembly according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that at least one and expediently each valve carrier module (14) has a load connection port (43b, 44b) connected to the valve carrier operating passage (43, 44) running in it and belonging to a common operating passage (46, 47).
  7. Valve assembly according to claim 6, characterised in that at least one of the load connection ports (43b, 44b) belonging to the same common operating passage (46, 47) is open and expediently at least one of the load connection ports (43b, 44b) belonging to this common operating passage (46, 47) has a fluid-tight seal provided by sealing means (53), for example a locking screw.
  8. Valve assembly according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that at least one common operating passage (46, 47) is connected to only a single open load connection port (54).
  9. Valve assembly according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that at least one open load connection port (54) and in particular one single open load connection port (54) is part of a valve carrier module (14) through which passes the common operating passage (46, 47).
  10. Valve assembly according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the distributor assembly (3) has, apart from the valve carrier modules (14) equipped with at least one valve unit (2), at least one distributor module (5) which is separate from the valve carrier modules (14) and is in the form of a connection module (17, 18) equipped with a valve unit (2) and equipped with at least one connection port (25, 26, 27) accessible from outside and usable for the connection of a fluid line.
  11. Valve assembly according to claim 10, characterised in that at least one common operating passage (46, 47) also extends into a connection module (18) and leads to a connection port (57) formed on the connection module (18) and forming a load connection port (43b, 44b).
  12. Valve assembly according to claim 11, characterised in that at least one common operating passage (46, 47) has an open load connection port (43b, 44b) formed on the connection module (18), expediently involving the single open load connection port (43b, 44b) of the common operating passage (46, 47) concerned.
  13. Valve assembly according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the connection module (18) is attached directly to at least one valve carrier module (14) through which passes a common operating passage (46, 47).
  14. Valve assembly according to any of claims 11 to 13, characterised in that a connection module (18) through which passes a common operating passage (46, 47) is arranged at the end of the distributor assembly (3) or between two valve carrier modules (14).
  15. Valve assembly according to any of claims 1 to 14, characterised in that at least one distributor feed passage (22) and at least one distributor discharge passage (23, 24) extend through the distributor modules (5) in the direction of lining-up (6) and are each in fluidic connection with all valve units (2), wherein expediently a signal distribution passage (27), in which there extends a signal distribution line (28) used for electrical control of the valve units (2), also passes through the distributor modules (5).
EP13000845.1A 2013-02-20 2013-02-20 Valve assembly Active EP2770216B1 (en)

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EP2770216B1 true EP2770216B1 (en) 2016-04-06

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102020214470B4 (en) 2020-11-18 2024-02-01 Festo Se & Co. Kg Valve arrangement

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19711227C2 (en) 1997-03-18 2000-11-30 Festo Ag & Co Valve arrangement
DE102005025441A1 (en) * 2005-06-02 2006-12-14 Bosch Rexroth Aktiengesellschaft Control block and control block section
DE102007057609A1 (en) * 2007-11-28 2009-06-04 Robert Bosch Gmbh Valve unit with several multi-way valves arranged side by side

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102020214470B4 (en) 2020-11-18 2024-02-01 Festo Se & Co. Kg Valve arrangement

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