Magnetically latched multi-valve system

Abstract

A multiple-valve system is transiently electromagnetically actuated by a single electrical winding, for concurrent change of state for each of the multiple valves, and a permanently magnetized portion of involved magnetic circuitry serves to latch both valves in the operative state into which they have been actuated. The preferred embodiment is based on valve-body structure which is a unitary consolidation of plural slabs of magnetic material in alternation with slabs of non-magnetic material. An electromagnetic actuator includes a U-shaped core having pole faces secured to the uppermost slab, in confronting relation with valve members of magnetic material. A first polarized magnetic-latch circuit exists via the U-shaped core, together with the valve members and a magnetized body slab when in valve-open condition. A second polarized magnetic-latch circuit exists via the magnetized slab, the valve members and another magnetic slab, when the system is in valve-closed condition. And momentary electrical excitation of the electromagnet will shift the system from valve-open to valve-closed condition, or vice versa, depending upon the sign of the electrical excitation.