Single stage variable force solenoid pressure regulating valve

Abstract

A pressure regulating variable force solenoid fluid control valve for regulating the pressure of a pressurized fluid in a fluid control system in proportion to the current level of an electrical input signal comprises a supply port for receiving pressurized fluid, a control port in fluid flow communication to the supply port via a primary orifice, the control port communicating with an external component, such as a hydraulic automobile transmission component to control operation thereof, and a variable force solenoid actuated valve that cooperates with a valve seat receiving pressurized fluid from the primary orifice to control flow of pressurized fluid to one or more exhaust ports as a means to regulate pressure at the control port in dependence upon electrical current to a coil of the solenoid actuated valve. A secondary bleed orifice is provided in a position between the supply port and the control port remote from the valve seat and proximate the control port to bleed pressurized fluid to the control port in a manner to provide more precise low pressure fluid control, for example, particularly at or near zero gage (control) pressure, over wide fluid pressures and temperatures and reduce negative pressures that can be generated proximate the valve seat when the valve is opened.