CPC Definition - Subclass F15B

Last Updated Version: 2023.01
SYSTEMS ACTING BY MEANS OF FLUIDS IN GENERAL; FLUID-PRESSURE ACTUATORS, e.g. SERVOMOTORS; DETAILS OF FLUID-PRESSURE SYSTEMS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
Definition statement

This place covers:

Systems transferring mechanical energy by means of a fluid under pressure using the principles of fluid statics or hydrostatics, i.e. hydraulic or pneumatic systems

References
Application-oriented references

Examples of places where the subject matter of this place is covered when specially adapted, used for a particular purpose, or incorporated in a larger system:

Fluid clutches or brakes

F16D

Fluid springs

F16F

Fluid gearing

F16H

Fluid-operating means for valves

F16K 31/12

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hydraulically or pneumatically operated lifting devices for soil-working machines

A01B 63/10

Hydraulic drawing presses

B21D

Hydraulic or pneumatic manipulators

B25J

Hydraulic or pneumatic tipping devices for vehicles

B60P 1/00

Hydraulic or pneumatic remote control for railway signals

B61L 7/04

Desalination

B63J 1/00

Water purification

C02F 1/00

Hydraulic or pneumatic mine supports

E21D 15/44

Motors, turbines, compressors, blowers, pumps

F01 - F04

Steam engines

F01B

Engine water cooling

F01P 3/00

Fuel injection

F02M

Perpetua mobilia using fluid

F03B 17/00

Fluid signal amplifiers, relays

F15C

Fluid dynamics

F15D

Pistons, cylinders packing

F16J

Valves, taps, cocks, actuating-floats

F16K

Safety valves with auxiliary fluid operation of the main valve

F16K 17/10

Pipes, pipe joints

F16L

Lubricating

F16N

Central heating systems

F24D 3/00

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Pneumatic

using air or an inert gas (except steam) as a pressure medium.

Hydraulic

using a liquid as the pressure medium.

Telemotor

system or device in which a substantially constant amount of fluid is trapped between an input member and an output member to act as a fluid link

Servomotor

fluid-pressure actuator, e.g. a piston and a cylinder, directly controlled by a valve or other device (e.g. pump) which is responsive to operation of an initial controlling member (e.g. joystick). The initial controlling member may be adjacent to the servomotor or at a distance and may be, e.g. a hand lever.

Installations or systems with accumulators; Supply reservoir or sump assemblies
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hydro-pneumatic suspensions

B60G 17/056 , F16F 9/06

Pumps having reservoirs

F04B 41/04

Central heating systems

F24D 3/1008

Special rules of classification

The main group F15B 1/00 is complemented by the main group F15B 2201/00 and is used for classifying invention information only.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Accumulator

vessel for storing pressurised liquid (e.g. using a liquid and a gas chamber separated by a membrane or piston or using an elastic housing)

Installations or systems with accumulators
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Energy recuperation means

F15B 21/14

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Accumulator

vessel for storing pressurised liquid (e.g. using a liquid and a gas chamber separated by a membrane or piston or using an elastic housing)

{used for damping}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pumps having accumulators for reducing pressure pulsations

F04B 11/0008

Hydro-pneumatic suspensions

F16F 9/08

Buffers for preventing water hammer

F16L 55/05

{used as an emergency power source, e.g. in case of pump failure}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2211/212 takes precedence

{used as a supplementary power source, e.g. to store energy in idle periods to balance pump load}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Also for recuperation of hydraulic energy (as e.g. used in hydraulic excavators)

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Dredgers or soil-shifting machinery with energy recovery arrangements

E02F 9/2217

{used for thermal compensation, e.g. to collect expanded fluid and to return it to the system as the system fluid cools down}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Central heating systems

F24D 3/1008

having accumulator charging devices
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. valves controlling flow of hydraulic fluid to and from the liquid chamber of an accumulator.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Accumulator gas charging devices

F15B 1/08, F15B 2201/415

Control of fluid pressure in general

G05D 16/00

Accumulators
Definition statement

This place covers:

Vessel for storing pressurised liquid (e.g. using a liquid and a gas chamber separated by a membrane or piston or using an elastic housing).

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pumps having accumulators for reducing pressure pulsations

F04B 11/0008

Hydro-pneumatic suspensions

F16F 9/08

Buffers for preventing water hammer

F16L 55/05

Pressure vessels per se

F17C 1/00

Central heating systems

F24D 3/1008

Special rules of classification

The sub-group F15B 1/04 is complemented by the main group F15B 2201/00

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "pressure accumulator", "Druckspeicher", "Hydrospeicher "and "Accumulateur"
  • "bladder-type accumulator" and "Blasenspeicher"
  • "membrane-type accumulator" and "Membranspeicher"
  • "accumulator using pistons" and "Kolbenspeicher"
  • "accumulators having springs" and "Federspeicher"
using a gas cushion; Gas charging devices; Indicators or floats therefor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/205 takes precedence.

{the accumulator having a fusible plug}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Accumulators with a safety plugs that melt at a certain temperature for relieving the pressure.

{the gas cushion being entirely enclosed by the separating means, e.g. foam or gas-filled balls}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Accumulators using bladders

F15B 1/165

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/3154 takes precedence.

with flexible separating means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Accumulators with flexible separating means but without gas cushion

F15B 1/04

See also

F15B 2201/315

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/315 takes precedence.

Accumulators not using a gas cushion are classified in F15B 1/04 even if they have flexible separating means (e.g. a membrane).

{the separating means being bellows}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media0.jpg

Fig. from US2004244857

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/3153 takes precedence.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "bellows", "Faltenbalg" and " soufflet"
{characterised by the way housing components are assembled}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/605 takes precedence.

{characterised by the attachment means (F15B 1/14 takes precedence)}
Special rules of classification

F15B 1/14 takes precedence.

{in the form of a bladder}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Accumulators using bladders, i.e. essentially cylindrical flexible separating means having a first open end portion which is normally rounded and a second end portion with a fluid inlet for separating a hydraulic fluid and a gas. media1.png

Fig. from US2006042707

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/3152 takes precedence.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "bladder", "Blase" and "vessie"
  • " bladder-type accumulator", "Blasenspeicher" and "accumulateur à vessie"
Anti-extrusion means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/43 takes precedence.

fixed to the separating means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/435 takes precedence.

Liquid port constructions
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/41 takes precedence.

with rigid separating means, e.g. pistons
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 2201/31 takes precedence.

Accumulators using springs and no gas cushion are classified in F15B 1/04 even if they have rigid separating means (e.g. a piston).

Supply reservoir or sump assemblies
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Reservoirs for vehicle braking systems

B60T 17/06

Fluid supply systems for power Power-steering systems with reservoirs

B62D 5/07

Pumps having reservoirs

F04B 41/04

{with pressurised main reservoir}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems with accumulators

F15B 1/02

Intensifiers or fluid-pressure converters, e.g. pressure exchangers; Conveying pressure from one fluid system to another, without contact between the fluids {(fluid-driven pumps F04B 9/08)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Devices for converting fluid energy, i.e. from a flow of fluid having high pressure and low flow rate to a flow of fluid having low pressure and high flow rate or vice versa.

E.g. devices using pistons of different size or rotating fluid pumps and motors of different capacity.

media2.png

Fig. from FR2822906

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Fluid-driven pumps

F04B 9/08

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pressure intensifiers in processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis

B01D 61/00

Fluid-driven pumps

F04B 9/08

Transducers converting variations of physical quantities, e.g. expressed by variations in positions of members, into fluid-pressure variations or vice versa; Varying fluid pressure as a function of variations of a plurality of fluid pressures or variations of other quantities (F15B 9/00 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Servomotors with follow-up action

F15B 9/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Transducers for measuring or controlling

G01, G05

Pressure sensors

G01L 9/00

Systems in which the movement produced is definitely related to the output of a volumetric pump; Telemotors
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. systems wherein a master cylinder is directly connected to a slave cylinder. Illustrative example:

media3.jpg

Fig. from WO2006129746

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Combinations of telemotor and servomotor systems

F15B 17/00

For control in motor vehicles

B60K

Vehicle brakes

B60T 1/08, B60T 1/093

For control in ships

B63H 25/00

For control in aircraft

B64C 13/00

Hydraulic clutch actuation

F16D 25/00

Hydraulic gear shifting devices

F16H 61/30

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Telemotor

system or device in which a substantially constant amount of fluid is trapped between an input member and an output member to act as a fluid link, e.g. realised as a master cylinder which is directly connected to a slave cylinder.

{With multiple inputs, e.g. for dual control}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Input units (e.g. master cylinders)

F15B 7/08

{With rotary or crank input}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Input units

F15B 7/08

In which the ratio between pump stroke and motor stroke varies with the resistance against the motor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

In brake actuating systems for motor vehicles

B60T

Details (F15B 15/00 takes precedence)
Special rules of classification

F15B 15/00 takes precedence for slave cylinders.

Input units; Master units
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Vehicle brake master cylinders

B60T 11/16

Compensation of the liquid content in a system (F15B 7/08 takes precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Details of input units or master units

F15B 7/08

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pressure-maintaining arrangements for brake master cylinders

B60T 11/228

Servomotors with follow-up action, {e.g. obtained by feed-back control,} i.e. in which the position of the actuated member conforms with that of the controlling member
Definition statement

This place covers:

Fluid power drives using position feed-back

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Servomotor

fluid-pressure acutator, e.g. a piston and a cylinder, directly controlled by a valve or other device (e.g. pump) which is responsive to operation of an initial controlling member (e.g. joystick). The initial controlling member may be adjacent to the servomotor or at a distance and may be, e.g. a hand lever.

in which the controlling element and the servomotor each controls a separate member, these members influencing different fluid passages or the same passage
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media4.png

Fig. from US4733601

in which both the controlling element and the servomotor control the same member influencing a fluid passage and are connected to that member by means of a differential gearing
Definition statement

This place covers:

This class is also used for systems with a differential gear ratio of 1:1. Illustrative example:

media5.jpg

Fig. from FR74115

Systems essentially having two or more interacting servomotors {, e.g. multi-stage (F15B 18/00, F15B 20/00 take precedence)}
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. multi-stage systems

References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Parallel arrangements of independent servomotor systems

F15B 18/00

Safety arrangements therefor

F15B 20/00

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servo-operated pilot valves for the following stage

F15B 13/042

Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action; {Circuits therefor} (F15B 3/00 takes precedence)
Definition statement

This place covers:

Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action and circuits therefor

Special rules of classification

The main group F15B 11/00 is omplemented by the main group F15B 2211/00 and is used for classifying invention information only. F15B 2211/00 takes precedence.

Glossary of terms

In this place, the following terms or expressions are used with the meaning indicated:

Servomotor

fluid-pressure acutator, e.g. a piston and a cylinder, directly controlled by a valve or other device (e.g. pump) which is responsive to operation of an initial controlling member (e.g. joystick). The initial controlling member may be adjacent to the servomotor or at a distance and may be, e.g. a hand lever.

{Systems with load-holding valves}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This class comprises releasable check valves and proportional braking valves.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Locking valve details

F15B 13/01

See also

F15B 2211/30515

Special rules of classification

F15B 2211/30515 takes precedence.

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "load holding valve" and "Lasthalteventil"
  • "releasable check valve" and "Entsperrbares Rückschlagventil "
{in which a rapid approach stroke is followed by a slower, high-force working stroke (F15B 11/0325 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

fluid-pressure converters increasing the working force after an approach stroke

F15B 11/0325

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Combined control for output members

F15B 2211/775

by means of differential connection of the servomotor lines, e.g. regenerative circuits
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Regeneration valves per se

F15B 13/021

Systems with directional control valves having a regenerative position

F15B 2211/3133

for controlling the actuating force (F15B 11/024 takes precedence)
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 11/024, F15B 2211/76 take precedence.

by means of fluid-pressure converters
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid pressure converters

F15B 3/00

by means of servomotors having a plurality of working chambers
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotors (fluid pressure actuators)

F15B 15/00

{during starting or stopping (F15B 11/048 takes precedence)}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Special rules of classification

F15B 11/048, F15B 2211/00 take precedence.

by means in the feed line {, i.e. "meter in"} (F15B 11/046, F15B 11/05 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Servomotor systems for controlling the speed of an output member, the speed depending on the position of the working member

F15B 11/046

Servomotor systems specially adapted to maintain constant speed force of an output member

F15B 11/05

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with directional control combined with flow control by regulating in feed line, i.e. meter-in control

F15B 2211/351

Special rules of classification

F15B 11/05, F15B 2211/351 take precedence.

{by controlling pump output or bypass, other than to maintain constant speed}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Adjusting pump output or bypass to maintain constant speed

F15B 11/055

{by controlling the number of pumps or parallel valves switched on}
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. systems controlling the speed by means of so-called digital valves or by means of systems using pulse code modulation (PCM)

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuits with digital valves

F15B 2211/40592

by means in the return line {, i.e. "meter out"} (F15B 11/046, F15B 11/05 take precedence)
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Servomotor systems for controlling the speed of an output member, the speed depending on the position of the working member

F15B 11/046

Servomotor systems specially adapted to maintain constant speed force of an output member

F15B 11/05

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with directional control combined with flow control by regulating means in return line, i.e. meter-out control

F15B 2211/353

Special rules of classification

F15B 11/05, F15B 2211/353 take precedence.

{with counterbalance valves, e.g. to prevent overrunning or for braking}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Counterbalance valves

F15B 13/029

Pressure control using counterbalance valves

F15B 2211/50581

Special rules of classification

F15B 2211/50581 takes precedence

specially adapted to maintain constant speed, e.g. pressure-compensated, load-responsive {(F15B 11/161 takes precedence)}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

maintaining constant speed with sensing of servomotor demand and load, for two or more servomotors

F15B 11/161

Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Counterbalance valves

F15B 11/0445

Valves for load sensing

F15B 13/0416

Directional control valves in combination with pressure compensating valves

F15B 2211/3053

Flow control using pressure compensating valves

F15B 2211/40553

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

LS

Load sensing

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "pressure-compensated", "Lastdruckunabhängig" and "LUDV"
  • "pressure compensator", "pressure compensating valve" and "Druckwaage"
{by adjusting the pump output or bypass}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pressure margin control in load sensing systems

F15B 2211/253

Pump control

F04B 49/002

Special rules of classification

F15B 11/165 takes precedence.

involving features specific to the use of a compressible medium, e.g. air, steam
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control specific to compressible fluids

F15B 2211/8855

providing distinct intermediate positions; with step-by-step action
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Step-by-step action obtained by combining two or more servomotors (actuators)

F15B 11/18

Restricting the stroke of servomotors (actuators)

F15B 15/24

with special provision for automatic return
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid gearing with oscillating input or output

F16H 43/00

with two or more servomotors
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For soil-shifting machines

E02F 9/22

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following abbreviations are often used:

LS

Load sensing

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "pressure-compensated", "Lastdruckunabhängig" and "LUDV"
  • "pressure compensator", "pressure compensating valve" and "Druckwaage"
{for giving priority to particular servomotors or users}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Priority valve details

F15B 13/022

Flow control using flow dividers

F15B 2211/40523

One or more output members having priority

F15B 2211/781

For power steering

B62D 5/07

{for sharing the pump output equally amongst users or groups of users, e.g. using anti-saturation, pressure compensation}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Valves for load sensing

F15B 13/0416

Directional control valves in combination with pressure compensating valves

F15B 2211/3053

Flow control using pressure compensating valves

F15B 2211/40553

{for adjusting the pump output or bypass in response to demand}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Maintaining constant speed by controlling pump output or bypass

F15B 11/055

Pressure margin control in load sensing systems

F15B 2211/253

Pump control

F04B 49/002

{with an isolator valve (duplicating valve), i.e. at least one load sense [LS] pressure is derived from a work port load sense pressure but is not a work port pressure itself}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load-sensing circuits with isolator valves

F15B 2211/6058

Special rules of classification

F15B 2211/6058 takes precedence.

using two or more pumps
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with multiple pumps

F15B 2211/20576

controlling several interacting or sequentially-operating members
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid distribution or supply devices for the control of two or more servomotors

F15B 13/06

{the position of the actuator controlling the fluid flow to the subsequent actuator}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telescopic booms

B66C 23/70

Synchronisation of the movement of two or more servomotors
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

See also

F15B 2211/782

Synchronisation of cylinders in fluid-driven presses

B30B 15/24

Details of servomotor systems ({F15B 1/04, F15B 1/26, F15B 3/00, F15B 7/08, F15B 11/02, F15B 11/10,} F15B 15/00 take precedence){; Valves for servomotor systems}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Components of hydraulic or pneumatic circuits such as valves and flow dividers.

Locking-valves or other detent {i.e. load-holding} devices
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems with load holding valves

F15B 11/003, F15B 2211/30515

Locking mechanisms associated with the actuator

F15B 15/26

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "over-centre valve", "locking-valve"
Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Multiple-way valves

F16K 11/00

Special rules of classification

Subgroups F15B 13/022 - F15B 13/029 are not complete

{Valves for interconnecting the fluid chambers of an actuator}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Regenerative circuits

F15B 11/024

Systems with directional control valves having a separate valve for interconnecting the fluid chambers of an actuator

F15B 2211/3058

Systems with directional control valves having a regenerative position

F15B 2211/3133

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "valves for interconnecting the fluid chambers of an actuator" and "Regeneration valves"
{Flow-dividers; Priority valves}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Circuits for giving priority to a particular servomotor

F15B 11/162

Flow control using flow dividers

F15B 2211/40523

Priotity valves for power steering

B62D 5/07

{Excess flow valves, e.g. for locking cylinders in case of hose burst}
Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "excess flow valves", "Rohrbruchsicherung" and "clapet parachute"
{Check valves}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Load holding valves

F15B 13/01

Locking valves

F15B 13/01

{Counterbalance valves}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with counterbalance valves

F15B 11/0445

Pressure control using counterbalance vavles

F15B 2211/50581

{for linearly sliding valves, e.g. spool valves}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media6.png

Fig. from WO2008015752

{with means or adapted for load sensing}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems with load sensing

F15B 11/05, F15B 11/161, F15B 2211/3053

{with manually-operated pilot valves, e.g. joysticks}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Arrangements of handles or pedals for cranes

B66C 13/54

Control levers for dredgers and soil shifting machines

E02F 9/2004

Similar mechanical control actuators

G05G 9/047

with electrically-controlled pilot valves
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrically operated main valves

F15B 13/044

operated by electrically-controlled means, e.g. solenoids, torque-motors
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Electrically controlled pilot valves

F15B 13/043

{Modular valves}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Modular valves in general

F16K 27/003

{Data bus systems}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems using data bus, e.g. CAN bus

F15B 21/085

Special measures for feedback {, e.g. by a follow-up device}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotors with follow-up action

F15B 9/00

Devices with means or adapted for load sensing

F15B 13/0416

Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to another; Gearing associated therewith
Definition statement

This place covers:

Hydraulic or pneumatic actuators with linear or non-continuous rotary output.

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Motors with continuous rotary movement

F01, F03

for mechanically converting rectilinear movement into non- rectilinear movement
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid-driven safety belt tensioners

B60R 22/4628

{Actuator having both linear and rotary output, i.e. dual action actuator}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Corresponding FI class

F15B15/06&E

Characterised by the construction of the motor unit
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Pistons, cylinders, packings

F16J

{the motor being of the slotted cylinder type}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Locking mechanisms therefor

F15B 15/265

{the motor being of the rodless piston type, e.g. with cable, belt or chain}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Locking mechanisms therfor

F15B 15/265

the motor being of diaphragm type
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Connection of valves to inflatable elastic bodies

B60C 29/00

Inflatable flexible elements for lifting goods

B66F 3/35

Pneumatic actuators for EGR valves

F02M 26/58

Clutches with fluid-actuated elastic clutching member

F16D 25/04

Bellows pistons

F16J 3/06

{using inflatable bodies that contract when fluid pressure is applied, e.g. pneumatic artificial muscles or McKibben-type actuators}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media7.png

Fig. from US4819547

References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Corresponding FI class

F15B15/10&H

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "fluidic muscle-type actuator", "McKibben-type actuator" and "Fluidischer Muskel"
of the oscillating-vane or curved-cylinder type
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Rotary motors with continuous output movement

F01C 9/002, F03C 4/00, F04C 9/002

Sealings for vane motors

F16J 15/545

{of the curved-cylinder type}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Illustrative example of subject matter classified in this group.

media8.png

Fig. from JP58163805

{in clusters, e.g. multiple cylinders in one block}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems with servomotors having a plurality of working chambers

F15B 11/036

Motors with two or more independently movable working pistons

F15B 15/1409

{with two or more independently movable working pistons}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with step-by-step action

F15B 11/12

Servomotor systems with stepwise operation

F15B 11/18

{Pistons; Piston to piston rod assemblies}
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Pistons per se

F16J 1/00

{Hollow piston sliding over a stationary rod inside the cylinder}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems for controlling the actuator force

F15B 11/036

{Special measures for cooling or heating}
Special rules of classification

When the fluid powering the fluid-actuated device is used for cooling or for heating said device, either one of F15B 21/0423 additional information when the fluid-actuated device is cooled or F15B 21/0427 additional information when the device is heated, has to be allocated complementary to the classification in this group.

Combined units comprising both motor and pump
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telemotors

F15B 7/00

Locking mechanisms
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Locking valves not combined with the actuator

F15B 13/01

{using positive interengagement, e.g. balls and grooves, for locking in the end positions}
Definition statement

This place covers:

Locking mechanisms using positive interengagement for locking in any distinct position (not restricted to locking in the end positions).

{Screw mechanisms attached to the piston}
Definition statement

This place covers:

This subgroup contains documents relating to locking mechanisms using screw mechanisms attached to the piston but not using friction.

{using electromagnetic radiation, e.g. radar or microwaves}
Special rules of classification

F15B 15/2846 takes precedence.

Combinations of telemotor and servomotor systems
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Telemotors

F15B 7/00

Servomotors with follow-up

F15B 9/00

Servomotors without follow-up

F15B 11/00

Parallel arrangements of independent servomotor systems
Definition statement

This place covers:

E.g. redundant systems.

media9.png

Fig. from DE1940946A1

Testing; {Calibrating; Fault detection or monitoring; Simulation or modelling of} fluid-pressure systems or apparatus not otherwise provided for
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Testing of fluid pressure systems

F15B 2211/855

Monitoring of fluid pressure systems

F15B 2211/857

Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systems; Applications of safety devices in fluid actuator systems; Emergency measures for fluid actuator systems
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control during or prevention of an electric or electronic failure

F15B 2211/862

Control during or prevention of an hydraulic or pneumatic failure

F15B 2211/863

Control during or prevention of a human failure

F15B 2211/8643

Prevention of failures

F15B 2211/865

Detection of failures

F15B 2211/87

Control measures for coping with failures

F15B 2211/875

Safety devices in general

F16P

Safety devices for pneumatic or hydraulic control systems

F16P 3/22

{Electrical failure}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control during or prevention of electric or electronic failures

F15B 2211/862

{Fluid pressure supply failure}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid supply failure

F15B 2211/8633

{Leakage; Spillage; Hose burst}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Valve or hose failure

F15B 2211/8636

{Valve failure}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Valve or hose failure:

F15B 2211/8636

{Compensation or avoidance of ambient pressure variation}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Systems with a pressurised main reservoir

F15B 1/265

{Reduction of noise or vibration}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For pumps

F04B 39/0027

Servomotor systems with programme control derived from a store or timing device; Control devices therefor
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Servomotor systems with electrically operated control means

F15B 21/08

Programme control in washing machines

D06F 33/04

Programme control in general

G05B 19/00

Special measures taken in connection with the properties of the fluid
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Using the fluid for cooling or heating a fluid-actuated device, i.e. a fluidic actuator

F15B 15/1485

Special rules of classification

When the fluid is used for cooling or heating a specific component, e.g. an electric motor, other than a fluid-actuated device, i.e. a fluidic actuator, it is classified in F15B 21/04 as inventive information and in F15B 21/0423 additional information when the fluid is used for cooling said component, or F15B 21/0427 additional information when the fluid is used for heating said component.

Controlling the temperature of the fluid
Special rules of classification

When the fluid is used for cooling or heating a specific component, e.g. an electric motor, classification in F15B 21/04 applies in accordance with the special rule of F15B 21/04.

Heating
Special rules of classification

Control of a cooling device to increase the temperature of the fluid, e.g. bypassing a cooling device for warmup, is classified in F15B 21/0427 as inventive information and also in F15B 21/0423 as additional information.

Removal or measurement of undissolved gas, e.g. de-aeration, venting or bleeding
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Preventing cavitation

F15B 21/047

Synonyms and Keywords

In patent documents, the following words/expressions are often used as synonyms:

  • "deaeration" and "Entlüftung"
Compensating for variations in viscosity or temperature
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Warming up fluid systems

F15B 21/042

Preventing foaming, churning or cavitation
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Supply reservoir or sump assemblies

F15B 1/26

Control during or prevention of cavitation

F15B 2211/8609

Arrangements for compressed air preparation, e.g. comprising air driers, air condensers, filters, lubricators or pressure regulators
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

For mist lubrication

F16N 7/32

For steam traps

F16T

For airconditioning

F24F

Use of special fluids, e.g. liquid metal; Special adaptations of fluid-pressure systems, or control of elements therefor, to the use of such fluids
References
Limiting references

This place does not cover:

Actuators having special fluid pressurization means

F15B 2015/208

{Use of electro- or magnetosensitive fluids, e.g. electrorheological fluid}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Control specific to the type of fluid, e.g. specific to magnetorheological fluid

F15B 2211/885

{using a data bus, e.g. "CANBUS"}
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Modular units using data bus

F15B 13/0867

Special rules of classification

F15B 13/0867 takes precedence.

Delay devices or arrangements
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Hydraulic braking

F15B 11/076

Delay devices associated with fluid motors or actuators

F15B 15/22

Fluid oscillators or pulse generators
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Fluid oscillators used for computing or control purposes

F15C 1/22, F15C 3/16

Energy-recuperation means
References
Informative references

Attention is drawn to the following places, which may be of interest for search:

Regenerative circuits

F15B 11/024

Control measure for saving energy

F15B 2211/88

For vehicles

B60T 1/10

Systems for storing electric energy in the form of pneumatic energy

H02J 15/006