Abstract
An improved membrane valve and method for manufacturing such membrane valve. The improved membrane valve can be used for transferring fluids or gases in hermetic or semi-hermetic compressors, including a method and system for manufacturing a membrane valve and a membrane valve with applications for use in several motors, particularly in hermetic or semi-hermetic compressors which use, as a refrigeration fluid, an appropriate type of gas thus promoting the refrigeration physical affect. A body and a membrane of the membrane valve are produced from substantially thin metallic plates separately in accordance to an available process and can be subjected to rounding in order to eliminate live corners, and then juxtaposed thus composing the valve, with the above mentioned membrane on one side, fitted to the body which is fixed through a connection process and, on the other side, left free to oscillate.
Claims
1-11. (canceled)
12. A membrane valve comprising: a. a planar body having a reed opening; b. a planar membrane positioned within said reed opening of said planar body in a coplanar relationship with said body; and, c. a connection arrangement for connecting said planar membrane to said planar body, said connection arrangement including 1) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on said planar body, and 2) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on a rear portion of said planar membrane, (A) said extension member on said planar body forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar membrane, (B) said extension member on said planar membrane forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar body, or combinations thereof, said connection arrangement allowing said planar membrane to pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said planar body near said first end, an edge of a peripheral edge of said planar membrane and an edge of said reed opening define a gap therebetween.
13. The membrane valve as defined in claim 12, wherein insertion of said extension member into said recess causes said extension member or recess to deform.
14. The membrane as defined in claim 12, wherein said compression fit is absent a weld, solder, braze, adhesive, or binding agent.
15. The membrane as defined in claim 13, wherein said compression fit is absent a weld, solder, braze, adhesive, or binding agent.
16. The membrane valve as defined in claim 12, wherein said body is formed of a different material than said membrane.
17. The membrane valve as defined in claim 15, wherein said body is formed of a different material than said membrane.
18. The membrane valve as defined in claim 16, wherein said body is formed of low or medium carbon or stainless material and said membrane is made of a more durable valve material than said material of said body.
19. The membrane valve as defined in claim 17, wherein said body is formed of low or medium carbon or stainless material and said membrane is made of a more durable valve material than said material of said body.
20. The membrane valve as defined in claim 12, wherein said peripheral edge of said membrane is rounded.
21. The membrane valve as defined in claim 19, wherein said peripheral edge of said membrane is rounded.
22. The membrane valve as defined in claim 12, wherein a top surface of said body lies in a same plane as a top surface of said membrane when said membrane is connected to said body, a bottom surface of said body lies in a same plane as a bottom surface of said membrane when said membrane is connected to said body, a top surface of said region of said compression fit lies in a same plane as said top surface of said membrane and body when said membrane is connected to said body, a bottom surface of said region of said compression fit lies in a same plane as said top surface of said membrane and body when said membrane is connected to said body.
23. The membrane valve as defined in claim 21, wherein a top surface of said body lies in a same plane as a top surface of said membrane when said membrane is connected to said body, a bottom surface of said body lies in a same plane as a bottom surface of said membrane when said membrane is connected to said body, a top surface of said region of said compression fit lies in a same plane as said top surface of said membrane and body when said membrane is connected to said body, a bottom surface of said region of said compression fit lies in a same plane as said top surface of said membrane and body when said membrane is connected to said body.
24. A membrane valve for installation between mating surfaces of a cylinder block and a valve head of a compressor for creating a uni-directional flow of fluids through said compressor, comprising: a. a planar body having a reed opening; b. a planar membrane positioned within said reed opening of said planar body in a coplanar relationship with said body; and, c. a connection arrangement for connecting said planar membrane to said planar body, said connection arrangement including 1) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on said planar body, and 2) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on a rear portion of said planar membrane, (A) said extension member on said planar body forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar membrane, (B) said extension member on said planar membrane forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar body, or combinations thereof, said connection arrangement allowing said planar membrane to pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said planar body near said first end, an edge of a peripheral edge of said planar membrane and an edge of said reed opening define a gap therebetween; whereby said membrane can pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said body near said first end when said body is secured between said cylinder block and said valve head.
25. In a hermetic type compressor having a cylinder block containing a cylinder opening to a flat block mating surface; a valve head with valving passages opening to a flat head mating surface and a membrane valve interposed in sealing relationship between said flat mating surfaces of said cylinder block and valve head for allowing uni-directional fluid flow between said valve passages and said cylinder, the improvement comprising: a. a planar body having a reed opening; b. a planar membrane positioned within said reed opening of said planar body in a coplanar relationship with said body; and, c. a connection arrangement for connecting said planar membrane to said planar body, said connection arrangement including 1) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on said planar body, and 2) an extension member, a recess or combinations thereof on a rear portion of said planar membrane, (A) said extension member on said planar body forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar membrane, (B) said extension member on said planar membrane forming a compression fit and connection with said recess on said planar body, or combinations thereof, said connection arrangement allowing said planar membrane to pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said planar body near said first end, an edge of a peripheral edge of said planar membrane and an edge of said reed opening define a gap therebetween.
26. A membrane valve comprising: a. a planar body having a reed opening; b. a planar membrane positioned within said reed opening of said planar body in a coplanar relationship with said body; and, c. a connection arrangement for connecting said planar membrane to said planar body such that said planar membrane is in coplanar relationship with said planar body, said connection arrangement including a plurality of recesses on a rear portion of said planar membrane and a plurality of corresponding connection extensions on said planar body, each of said connection extensions configured to friction fit in a corresponding recess to secure said planar membrane to said planar body, said connection arrangement enabling said planar membrane to pivotally move about a transverse axis which is coplanar with said planar body, a front region of said planar membrane spaced from said planar body to define a gap between said planar membrane and said planar body when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body.
27. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein said compression fit connection includes the insertion of each of said connection extensions into said corresponding recess to cause said connection extension, said recess, or combinations thereof to deform when said connection extension is inserted into said recess.
28. The membrane as defined in claim 27, wherein said compression fit connection is absent a weld, solder, braze, adhesive, or binding agent.
29. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein said planar body is formed of a different material than said planar membrane, said planar body having one or more properties selected from the group consisting of a) said planar body is formed of a material that has less durability than said planar membrane, b) said planar body formed of a material that has a greater deformability than said planar membrane, and c) said planar body formed of a material that has a hardness that is less than said planar membrane.
30. The membrane as defined in claim 28, wherein said planar body is formed of a different material than said planar membrane, said planar body having one or more properties selected from the group consisting of a) said planar body is formed of a material that has less durability than said planar membrane, b) said planar body formed of a material that has a greater deformability than said planar membrane, and c) said planar body formed of a material that has a hardness that is less than said planar membrane.
31. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein a top surface of said planar body lies in a same plane as a top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a bottom surface of said planar body lies in a same plane as a bottom surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a top surface of each of said connection extensions lies in a same plane as said top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a bottom surface of each of said connection extensions lies in a same plane as said top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body.
32. The membrane as defined in claim 30, wherein a top surface of said planar body lies in a same plane as a top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a bottom surface of said planar body lies in a same plane as a bottom surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a top surface of each of said connection extensions lies in a same plane as said top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a bottom surface of each of said connection extensions lies in a same plane as said top surface of said planar membrane when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body.
33. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein each side of said planar membrane includes at least one of said recesses and is positioned at a location that is spaced from a back end of said planar membrane, each side of said planar body includes at least one connection extension and which is positioned at a location that is spaced from a back end of said planar body.
34. The membrane as defined in claim 32, wherein each side of said planar membrane includes at least one of said recesses and is positioned at a location that is spaced from a back end of said planar membrane, each side of said planar body includes at least one connection extension and which is positioned at a location that is spaced from a back end of said planar body.
35. The membrane as defined in claim 33, wherein said back end of said planar membrane includes at least one of said recesses, said back end of said planar body includes at least one connection extension.
36. The membrane as defined in claim 34, wherein said back end of said planar membrane includes at least one of said recesses, said back end of said planar body includes at least one connection extension.
37. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein each side and a back end of said rear portion of said planar membrane contacts said planar body when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a front portion of said planar body spaced from said planar body when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body.
38. The membrane as defined in claim 34, wherein each side and a back end of said rear portion of said planar membrane contacts said planar body when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body, a front portion of said planar body spaced from said planar body when said planar membrane is connected to said planar body.
39. The membrane as defined in claim 26, wherein a front region of said peripheral edge of said planar membrane is rounded.
40. The membrane as defined in claim 38, wherein a front region of said peripheral edge of said planar membrane is rounded.
41. The membrane valve as defined in claim 26, wherein said membrane valve is for installation between mating surfaces of a cylinder block and a valve head of a compressor for creating a uni-directional flow of fluids through said compressor, said membrane can pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said body near said first end when said body is secured between said cylinder block and said valve head.
42. The membrane valve as defined in claim 40, wherein said membrane valve is for installation between mating surfaces of a cylinder block and a valve head of a compressor for creating a uni-directional flow of fluids through said compressor, said membrane can pivotally move about a transverse axis, which is coplanar with said body near said first end when said body is secured between said cylinder block and said valve head.
43. The membrane valve as defined in claim 26, for use in a hermetic type compressor having a cylinder block containing a cylinder opening to a flat block mating surface and a valve head with valving passages opening to a flat head mating surface, said membrane valve interposed in a sealing relationship between said flat mating surfaces of said cylinder block and valve head for allowing uni-directional fluid flow between said valve passages and said cylinder.
44. The membrane valve as defined in claim 40, for use in a hermetic type compressor having a cylinder block containing a cylinder opening to a flat block mating surface and a valve head with valving passages opening to a flat head mating surface, said membrane valve interposed in a sealing relationship between said flat mating surfaces of said cylinder block and valve head for allowing uni-directional fluid flow between said valve passages and said cylinder.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0063] Reference may now be made to the drawings, which illustrate various embodiments that the invention may take in physical form and in certain parts and arrangements of parts wherein;
[0064] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of a non-limiting membrane valve in accordance with the present invention;
[0065] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the assembled membrane valve of FIG. 1;
[0066] FIG. 3 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the rear end of the reed or membrane;
[0067] FIG. 4 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at both the sides and the rear end of the reed or membrane;
[0068] FIG. 5 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the sides of the reed or membrane and the shape of the opening on the body and the shape of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0069] FIG. 6 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the rear end of the reed or membrane and the shape of the opening on the body and the shape of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0070] FIG. 7 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at both the sides and the rear end of the reed or membrane and the shape of the opening on the body and the shape of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0071] FIG. 8 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the sides of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0072] FIG. 9 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the rear end of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0073] FIG. 10 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at both the sides and rear end of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0074] FIG. 11 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the sides of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified;
[0075] FIG. 12 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at the rear end of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified; and,
[0076] FIG. 13 is a modified version of the membrane valve of FIG. 1 wherein the compression fit is located at both the sides and rear end of each of the plurality of reed or membrane and the shape of the openings on the body and the shapes of the reed or membrane are modified.
DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0077] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showing is for the purpose of illustrating non-limiting embodiments of the invention only and not for the purpose of limiting the same, there is illustrated in FIGS. 1-13 a multi-piece membrane valve in accordance with the present invention. The membrane valve can be used in different suction valves for hermetic or semi-hermetic compressors used in domestic or commercial refrigeration systems, including different automotive or non-automotive air-conditioning units. As can be appreciated, the membrane valve of the present invention can be used in many of applications.
[0078] As illustrated in the Figures, the membrane valve can have a variety of different configurations. The configurations illustrated in the Figures only represent a few of the possible configurations of the membrane valve of the present invention. The membrane valve 100 includes a body 200 and at least one reed or membrane 300. The body of the membrane valve is generally made of a thin metallic plate of a certain material. As can be appreciated, the body can be formed of other or additional materials. The size, shape, configuration and thickness of the body are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 and 11-13, the body has a generally square or rectangular shape. As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the body has a generally circular shape. The body is illustrated as having a generally constant thickness; however, this is not required. The body generally includes one or more holes 210 that are used in conjunction with the valve assembly on a compressor or other device. As can be appreciated, the one or more holes can be used for a variety of functions. The number, size, shape, configuration and location of the one or more holes in the body are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 and 11-13, the body includes four holes that are positioned near the each of the four corners of the body. The size and shape of the openings are illustrated as being the same; however, this is not required. The openings are illustrated as having a circular shape; however, other or additional shapes can be used (e.g., oval, polygonal, star shaped, etc.). As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the body includes a single opening located at or near the center of the body. The opening is illustrated as having a circular shape; however, other or additional shapes can be used (e.g., oval, polygonal, star shaped, etc.).
[0079] The body also includes one or more reed openings 220. The number, size, shape, configuration and location of the one or more reed openings in the body are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 and 11-13, the body includes a single reed opening. As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the body includes six reed openings. One or more of the reed openings is designed to receive a reed or membrane 300. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, each of the reed openings includes a single reed or membrane 300. As illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, each of the reed openings includes two reeds or membranes 300. As can be appreciated, more than two reeds or membranes can be received in one or more of the reed openings. The outer edges of the body, the one or more holes, and/or the one or more reed openings can be deburred and/or rounded; however, this is not required.
[0080] One or more of the reed openings that are designed to receive a reed or membrane include a compression fit arrangement that includes one or more recesses and/or connection extensions. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, the reed openings each include a plurality of connection extensions 230. As can be appreciated, the reed opening can include a single connection extension. As also can be appreciated, one or more reed openings can include one or more recesses instead of one or more connection extensions. As also can be appreciated, one or more reed openings can include both one or more recesses and one or more connection extensions. The location of the one or more recesses and/or connection extensions in the reed opening is non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, the connection extensions in the reed opening are positioned at one end of the reed opening. As illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, the connection extensions in the reed opening are positioned at two ends of the reed opening.
[0081] The size, shape and configuration of the connection extensions are non-limiting. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, the connection extensions are in the shape of a lollipop or standard light bulb. The connection extensions have a neck that extends outwardly from the side of the reed opening and which terminates into a circular-shaped end portion. The maximum cross-sectional width of the end portion is greater than the thinnest width of the neck; however, this is not required. The top and bottom surface of the connection extensions lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body; however, this is not required. The edges 232 of the connection extensions are typically rounded or tapered so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses 320 of the reeds or membranes; however, this is not required.
[0082] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, the rear portion 310 of each of the reeds or membranes includes one or more recesses or slots 320. The size, shape and configuration of the recess is similar or the same as the shape of the connection extensions. The edges 322 of the recess can be rounded or tapered so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions 230 into the recesses 320 of the reeds or membranes; however, this is not required.
[0083] As best illustrated in FIG. 1, the rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width that is the same or similar to the width of the reed opening that is designed to receive the rear portion of the reed or membrane. As illustrated in FIGS. 2-13, once the reed or membrane is inserted into the reed opening, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body. The compression fit between the reed or membrane and body are unique in that the top and bottom surface of the point of connection between the body and reed or membrane generally lies in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body and the reed or membrane. As such, the top and bottom surface of the region about the recesses and the top and bottom surface of the connection extensions lie in the same plane when the reed or membrane is connected to the body.
[0084] The longitudinal length of the rear portion of the reed or membrane is generally less than 40% the longitudinal length of the reed or membrane, typically the rear portion of the reed or membrane is generally less than 30% the longitudinal length of the reed or membrane, more typically the rear portion of the reed or membrane is generally less than 25% the longitudinal length of the reed or membrane, and still more typically the rear portion of the reed or membrane is generally less than 20% the longitudinal length of the reed or membrane.
[0085] A majority of the outer edge 340 of the front portion 350 of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening to form a slot 330 between the body and the reed or membrane. As illustrated in FIGS. 2-13, the edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening.
[0086] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the reed or membrane are positioned on opposite sides of the reed and membrane, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 2, all of the outer edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 90% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0087] As illustrated in FIG. 3, two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the reed or membrane are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 3, all of the outer edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 90% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0088] As illustrated in FIG. 4, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300, and two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the side of the reed or membrane are positioned on opposite sides of the reed and membrane, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The two recesses on the rear of the reed or membrane are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. Each pair of recesses located about a corner of the rear portion of the reed or membrane are spaced equal distances from one another. All four recesses have the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 4, all of the outer edges of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 90% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0089] As illustrated in FIG. 5, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the reed or membrane are positioned on opposite sides of the reed and membrane, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 5, all of the outer edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 include a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0090] As illustrated in FIG. 6, two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the reed or membrane are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 6, all of the outer edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 7, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300, and two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of the reed or membrane 300. The two recesses on the side of the reed or membrane are positioned on opposite sides of the reed and membrane, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The two recesses on the rear of the reed or membrane are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. Each pair of recesses located about a corner of the rear portion of the reed or membrane are spaced equal distances from one another. All four recesses have the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of the reed or membrane has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 7, all of the outer edge of the front portion of the reed or membrane is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when the reed or membrane is connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of the reed or membrane. The reed or membrane is formed of a different material than the body. When the reed or membrane is connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of the reed or membrane lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 8, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on each of the reeds or membranes are positioned on opposite sides of each of the reeds and membranes, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 8, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reeds or membranes is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 9, two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on each of the reeds or membranes are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 9, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reeds or membranes is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0094] As illustrated in FIG. 10, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300, and two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on the side of each of the reeds or membranes are positioned on opposite sides of each of the reeds and membranes, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The two recesses on the rear of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced the same distance from a side edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. Each pair of recesses located about a corner of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced equal distances from one another. All four recesses have the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes have a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 10, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reed or membranes is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is not constant about the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 11, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on each of the reeds or membranes are positioned on opposite sides of each of the reeds and membranes, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 11, a single reed opening in the body is configured to receive two reeds or membranes. The two reeds or membranes are oriented in opposite directions from one another; however, this is not required. The longitudinal axis of the two reeds is parallel to one another; however, this is not required. The side edge of the reeds or membranes that are positioned adjacent to one another are spaced from one another. The spacing is illustrated as being constant; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 11, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reeds or membranes is spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 70% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 12, two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on each of the reeds or membranes are spaced the same distance from a side edge of the reed or membrane, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 12, a single reed opening in the body is configured to receive two reeds or membranes. The two reeds or membranes are oriented in opposite directions from one another; however, this is not required. The longitudinal axis of the two reeds is parallel to one another; however, this is not required. The side edge of the reeds or membranes that are positioned adjacent to one another is spaced from one another. The spacing is illustrated as being constant; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 11, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 70% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0097] As illustrated in FIG. 13, two connection extensions 230 extend from each side of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the sides of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300, and two connection extensions 230 extend from the rear of the reed opening 220 and are inserted in two corresponding recesses 320 on the rear end of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes 300. The two recesses on the side of each of the reeds or membranes are positioned on opposite sides of each of the reeds and membranes, are spaced the same distance from the rear edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. The two recesses on the rear of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced the same distance from a side edge of each of the reeds or membranes, and are the same size, configuration and shape. Each pair of recesses located about a corner of the rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced equal distances from one another. All four recesses have the same size, configuration and shape. The shape of the extension member that is to be inserted into a corresponding recess is the same shape of the recess. The size of the extension member is slightly larger than the size of the recess so that the extension member is caused to slightly deform when inserted into the recess. The insertion of the extension member into the recess may also or alternatively cause the recess to slightly deform; however, this is not required. The rear portion of each of the reeds or membranes has a width such that a majority or all of the outer edge of the rear portion contacts the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. As illustrated in FIG. 13, a single reed opening in the body is configured to receive two reeds or membranes. The two reeds or membranes are oriented in opposite directions from one another; however, this is not required. The longitudinal axis of the two reeds is parallel to one another; however, this is not required. The side edge of the reeds or membranes that are positioned adjacent to one another is spaced from one another. The spacing is illustrated as being constant; however, this is not required. As illustrated in FIG. 11, all of the outer edge of the front portion of each of the reeds or membranes are spaced from the edge of the reed opening when each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body. The size and shape of the slot 330 is constant at about at least 70% of the outer edge of the front portion. The edge 232 of the connection extensions 230 includes a rounded or tapered edge so as to facilitate in the insertion of the connection extensions into the recesses of each of the reeds or membranes. The transition between the outer edge of the rear portion and the front portion is a tapered or angled portion; however, this is not required. Each of the reeds or membranes is formed of a different material than the body. When each of the reeds or membranes are connected to the body, the top and bottom surface of each of the reeds or membranes lie in the same plane as the top and bottom surface of the body.
[0098] The manufacturing process of the membrane valve generally includes one or more of the following steps:
[0099] a. provide a body 200, with at least one hole 210 that is used as an opening for the lodging of the escape valve and/or to guide the assemblage and fix the assembly to a determined device (e.g., compressor, etc.), and with at least one reed opening 220, when reed opening is spaced from the outer edge of the body;
[0100] b. provide a body or membrane 300 which is designed to be connected in the reed opening;
[0101] c. optionally provide the softening of the edges of the reed or membrane in order to integrally round them;
[0102] d. insert the reed or membrane into the reed opening; and,
[0103] e. permanently and irreversibly joining the body 200 to the reed or membrane 300 by use of a compression fit arrangement wherein an extension member is inserted into a recess to form a compression fit.
[0104] It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made apparent from the preceding description, are efficiently attained, and since certain changes may be made in the constructions set forth without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The invention has been described with reference to preferred and alternate embodiments. Modifications and alterations will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the detailed discussion of the invention provided herein. This invention is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the present invention. It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.
