Electrically operated device and valving mechanism employing same

Abstract

An electrically operated valve having a mechanically actuated position for valving a fluid port between an open and closed position. A first tubular pole member contained within an electrical coil is movable between a first and second position with respect to a second, stationary, coaxially aligned tubular pole member. A reset spring urges the first pole member toward the first position. An armature, having a valve sealing surface at one end, is movable between first and second positions for alternately closing and opening a fluid port. The first pole member defines an air gap with respect to the second pole member which, during energization of the electrical coil, has associated therewith a magnetic flux with accompanying lines of magnetic force. One end of the armature is spaced closely adjacent to the air gap so that, upon energization of the coil, the magnetic force lifts the armature to the second position, overcoming a second biasing spring which normally maintains the armature in the first position. The armature can be returned to the first position while the coil is energized by actuating a reset button attached to the first pole member. Mechanical actuation of the reset button moves the first pole member into contact with the second pole member, closing the air gap and permitting the second biasing spring to return the armature to the first position, closing the fluid port.