TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a solenoid valve for fluid flow control.

BACKGROUND

Solenoid valves are used in a wide range of devices to control fluid flow. Such valves utilize an armature driven by a magnetic field selectively generated by selectively providing electric current to a coil. The valves may include many components, and especially when the components are relatively small, assembly thereof and ensuring proper position of the components may be difficult. Some solenoids are used with engine fuel system components, such as on or in a carburetor for an engine system that does not include a battery. In at least these implementations, it is desirable to reduce the current needed to drive the solenoid as the electrical energy available in such systems may be limited.

SUMMARY

In at least some implementations, a solenoid valve includes a housing, a bobbin and an armature. The bobbin is received at least partially within the housing and has a body about which a coil is provided. A fluid flow path including an inlet and an outlet and a valve seat is defined by at least one of the housing or the bobbin, and the armature is moveable relative to the valve seat to control flow through the fluid flow path.

A method of assembling a solenoid may include the steps of:providing a bobbin;coupling a terminal to the bobbin in a first position wherein a gap is provided between the terminal and bobbin;providing a coil on the bobbin and having a wire connected to the terminal; andmoving the terminal to a final position relative to the bobbin which reduces or eliminates the gap and provides slack in the wire connected to the terminal. The method may further include inserting an armature through an open end of the bobbin, inserting an armature stop through said open end of the bobbin after the armature is inserted, and/or installing a cap that engages one or both of the terminals and the armature stop so that installing the cap also moves one or both of the terminals and the armature stop to their final installed position. The armature and method may provide a so-called “drop-down” installation wherein the valve components are installed in the same direction to facilitate assembly.

