LOW COST ABSOLUTE PRESSURE CONTROLLER FOR PLENUM PRESSURE REGULATION

摘要

A low cost diaphragm actuated absolute pressure regulator. The regulator comprises a housing having first and second sections that are secured together. The first section has a cavity and a diaphragm that seals the cavity and first section of the housing. An O-ring seal is disposed in a groove of the first section that seals against the diaphragm. The second section of the housing houses a movable and sealable vent plug that moves in response to movement of the diaphragm, and one or more vent openings for venting the interior of the second section to external pressure in response to motion of the diaphragm. The pressure regulator may be preferentially used in an upper atmospheric system that needs to maintain a specified pressure, but requires venting capabilities. Such systems include missiles that fly into the upper atmosphere. In addition, the pressure regulator may be used in cabins or compartments that require venting, but maintain a constant inner pressure for comfort or safety reasons, such as in passenger vehicles. The pressure regulator maintains the passenger space of the vehicle at a constant pressure, thus eliminating altitude related pressure variations.