FIE L D

The present disclosure generally relates to the field of thermostats and temperature control I ed f I ui d f I ow. BAC K G R OU ND

Thermostatic valves are regularly used for controlling the flow of fluids based on sensed temperature. I n combusti on engi nes, for exampl e, thermostats are uti I i zed for regulating the temperature of the engine by controlling the flow of coolant fluid from the radiator(s) to the engine. When the sensed temperature exceeds a certain value, referred to as the Start-to-Open (STO) temperature, the valve opens by distancing a valve pi ug from a valve seat al I owi ng f I ow of I ow temperature f I ui d, such as a cool ant, from the radiator(s) to the engine, thereby lowering the engine s temperature and keepi ng it from overheati ng. A I ternatively, when the sensed temperature drops bel ow a certai n I evel , the val ve cl oses by i ntroduci ng the valve pi ug to the valve seat, obstruct! ng the flow of low temperature fluid from the radiator(s) to the engine, thereby allowing the temperature of the engine to rise and reach a desired temperature.

The valve plug is commonly actuated by a rod mechanical ly connected therewith. The rod is movable by the expansion and contraction of a thermally expandable material such as wax, confined in a chamber, exposed to the sensed temperature. The valve plug is movable between a ^" fully open_ position, at which the valve head is distanced from the valve seat, and a ^" closed _, position, at which the valve pi ug is i ntroduced to the valve seat.

During operation, the valve may be susceptible to failures or undesired positioning behavior of the valve head between the ^" fully open_ position and the ^" closed _, position. Alternatively, it may be desirable in certain circumstances to move the valve to ^" partially open_ positions. Early and accurate detection of failures or undesired positions and/or the capability to accurately determine the valve head s position are important for achieving a desired behavior of the devices affected by the f I ow of the cool ant f I ui d. There is thus a need in the art for systems, devices and methods for obtaining direct information regarding the state and behavior of the thermostatic valve during operati on to detect possi bl e f ai I ures and/or to obtai n i nf ormati on rel ated to the behavi or of the valve.

SU M MA RY

T he f ol I owi ng embodi merits and aspects thereof are descri bed and i 11 ustrated i n conj unction with systems, kits and devices which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, not limiti ng in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above- described problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are di rected to other advantages or i mprovements.

T he present disci osure relates to systems, kits and devi ces for obtai ni ng position i ndi cators from a movable part area of i nterest i n a thermostatic valve by i ntroduci ng a positi on sensor configured to measure the positi on of the part/area of i nterest duri ng the operation of the thermostatic valve. Advantageously, obtaining position indicators to movable parts/areas of interest in the thermostatic valve may enable detection of failures or undesired behavior of the thermostatic valve and/or assist in positioning the part/area of i nterest accordi ng to some desi red behavi or.

State of the art thermostats for combustion engines typically are expected to operate as binary mechanisms: they are either closed or they are open. E ngine designers have determined an optimum engine temperature by deciding on properties of a heat sensitive material such as wax, properties of a spring urging the valve to be closed, and/or additional parameters influencing the STO temperature of the valve. When the valve is open, a coolant fluid is allowed to pass from a radiator to the engine at a maximum rate of flow, predetermined by the designers as adequate to cool the engine to a given temperature wi thi n a given peri od of ti me. W hen the val ve i s cl osed, the f I ui d is bl ocked from passi ng to the engi ne and may ci rculate i nstead withi n a bypass ci rcuit. It is assumed that, when the temperature of the cool ant f I ui d i n the engi ne i ncreases and reaches the STO, the thermostatic valve will open, letting cool ant fluid reach the engi ne at the maximum flow rate and that when the temperature decreases, returning to the STO, the valve will close, blocking cool ant fluid from reaching the engine.

In practice though, mechanical and/or electrical failures may prevent a valve from fully openi ng or fully closing, leaving the valve in a partially open position. Alternatively, there may be conditions under which it is desirable for the valve to be partially open. In that state, coolantfluid is all owed to pass through the valve, from the radiator to the engine, at less than the maximum flow rate. A result may be that the engine runs at a higher than normal temperature so that fuel efficiency is increased while emissions are reduced, at the expense of possible wear and tear on engine components.

Advantageously, the thermostat disclosed herein includes a position sensor configured to determi ne the position of a movabl e part area of i nterest duri ng operation of the engine and thermostatic valve. Obtaining position information about the part area of i nterest may advantageously enabl e detecti on of f ai I ures or undesi red behavi or of the valve and/or assist in positioning the part area of interest according to a desired behavior. For example, notified of a fail ure of the valve to fully open or close, a controller could reduce engine function or shut down the engine and/or notify the user of the need for service. For example, notified of a failure of the valve to close, a controller might attempt to correct for the failure by applying mechanical and/or electrical means to cause or encourage the valve to close. For example, notified of a failure of the valve to fully open, a controller might attempt to correct for the failure by applying mechanical and/or electrical means to cause or encourage the valve to fully open. For example, a controller might be able to control the position of a valve, mechanically or electrically, and thus the rate of flow of coolant to the engine, given position information provided by a position sensor.

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, there i s provi ded a thermostat for control I i ng flow of a coolant fluid through an aperture, the thermostat includes a temperature sensitive valve for control I i ng the openi ng and cl osi ng of the aperture, the temperature sensitive valve comprising, a valve body comprising a heat sensitive material and a displaceable pin; wherein the displaceable pin is at least partially inserted within the heat sensitive material, a I i d configured to del i mit the temperature sensitive valve from a top end thereof, the lid configured to seal against a valve seat when the temperature sensitive valve is closed, a support member configured to delimit the temperature sensitive valve from a bottom end thereof, and a flexible member located between the lid and the support member, wherein when the heat sensitive material is heated the displaceable pin is at least partially displaced from the valve body, thereby affecting a compression force on the flexible member, the compression force gradually displacing the temperature sensitive valve from the valve seat thereby allowing flow of coolant fluid through the aperture, and a position sensor configured to provide information i ndi cative of the positi on of the temperature sensitive valve or a part thereof. According to some embodiments, the position sensor comprises an electromechanical device. According to some embodiments, the electromechanical device comprises an electrically conductive member and an electric circuit, the electrically conductive member mechanically connected or associated with the temperature sensitive valve or the part thereof, wherein the electric circuit is configured to allow detection of a position of the electrically conductive member.

According to some embodiments, the position of the electrically conductive member detectably affects an electric and/or magnetic field formed about the electric circuit. According to some embodiments, the external controller is electrically connected with the el ectri c circuit; the external control I er bei ng configured to detect the positi on of the el ectri cal ly conductive member by sensi ng changes i n the el ectri c and/or magnetic field. According to some embodiments, the electrical ly conductive member comprises a metallic or partially metallic member. According to some embodiments, the electrically conductive member is mechanically connected to the lid. According to some embodiments, the electrically conductive member is mechanically connected to the valve body. According to some embodiments, the electrically conductive member is mechanically connected to a part of a hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism According to some embodiments, the part of the hydraul ic pressure compensation mechanism is an annular connector. According to some embodiments, the part of the hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism is an extension member.

According to some embodiments, the external controller is configured to use the information indicative of the position of the temperature sensitive valve or a part thereof to determine the position of the valve. According to some embodiments, the external controller is configured to use information indicative of the position of the temperature sensitive valve or a part thereof to detect a fai I ure i n the positi oni ng valve. According to some embodi ments, the external control ler is configured to use i nformati on i ndi cati ve of the positi on of the temperature sensitive valve or a part thereof to aid in a process of positioning valve in a desired state. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include some, all, or none of the above advantages. 0 ne or more techni cal advantages may be readi ly apparent to those skilled in the art from the figures, descriptions and claims included herei n. Moreover, while specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include all, some or none of the enumerated advantages.

In addition to the exemplary aspects and embodiments described above, further aspects and embodi ments wi 11 become apparent by reference to the f i gures and by study of the f ol I owi ng detai I ed descri pti ons.

BRIE F DE SC RIPTION O F T H E DRAWINGS

Examples il lustrative of embodiments are described below with reference to figures attached hereto. In the figures, identical structures, elements or parts that appear in more than one figure are generally labeled with a same numeral in all the figures in which they appear. Alternatively, elements or parts that appear in more than one figure may be labeled with different numerals in the different figures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are generally chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily shown in scale. The figures are listed below. FIG . 1A schematically shows a side view and a cross- sectional view, taken along line F ^" F of the side view, of an apparatus configured to control the flow of a coolant fluid from a radiator to an engine, with a position sensor, according to some embodiments;

FIG . 1 B schematically shows a cross-sectional view, taken along line F ^" F of the top view of apparatus of FIG . 1A, in a 3D perspective, according to some embodiments;

FIG . 2A schematically shows a top view and a rear cross-sectional view, taken along line F ^" F of the top view, of an apparatus with a position sensor, configured to control the flow of a coolant fluid from a radiator to an engine, in a closed position, accordi ng to some embodi ments;

F I G . 2B schemati cal ly shows a front cross- secti onal vi ew, taken al ong I i ne F ^" F of the top view of apparatus of FIG . 2A, in a 3D perspective, in a closed position, accordi ng to some embodi ments;

FIG . 3A schematically shows a thermostat with a valve position sensor at a cl osed valve posi ti on, accordi ng to some embodi ments;

FIG . 3B schematically shows a thermostat with a valve position sensor at an open valve position, according to some embodiments; DE TAIL E D DE SC RIPT IO N

In the f ol I owi ng descri pti on, vari ous aspects of the di scl osure wi 11 be descri bed. For the purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are setforth in order to provi de a thorough understand! ng of the di ff erent aspects of the di scl osure. H owever, it wi ll also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the disclosure may be practiced without specific details being presented herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omi tted or si mpl if i ed i n order not to obscure the di scl osure.

According to some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a thermostat for controll ing a temperature of an engine by controlling flow from a heat exchanger, such as a radiator, to the engine. As used herein, the terms "heat exchanger" and "radiator" may be used interchangeably to refer to an external device such as a radiator that either reduces the temperature of (cools) fluid passing through the device or exchanges fluid at one temperature for fluid at a lower temperature. The thermostat includes a valve for controlling the opening and closing of an aperture through which the cool ant fluid, cooled by the radiator, can enter the thermostat and subsequently the engi ne.

According to some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a thermostat for controlling a temperature of an engine by controlli ng flow of a fluid from a heat exchanger, such as a radiator, to the engine. As used herein, the terms ^" coolant _, and ^" low temperature fluid _, may be used interchangeably to refer to a fluid provided by a heat exchanger for use by an engine, supplied at a lower temperature than a fluid circulating within the engine.

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the thermostat i ncl udes a displaceabl e and/or thermal ly actuated mechanism configured to al low openi ng of the valve, in response to an increase in the temperature of the coolant fluid circulating i n the engine. The thermostat further includes a flexi ble member, configured to exert pressure on the temperature responsive valve so as to resist openi ng of the valve and/or to force closi ng of the valve, when the temperature of the coolant fluid decreases. According to some embodiments, the flexible member may be a spri ng.

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the temperature sensitive actuator i ncl udes a valve body containing a heat sensitive material and a displaceable pin. According to some embodiments, the displaceable pin may be at least partially inserted within the valve body and/or the heat sensitive material. According to some embodiments, the heat sensitive material may be a wax. As used herein, the terms ^" heat sensitive material, _, ^" thermally expandable material, _, and ^" wax_ may be used interchangeably to refer to a material that expands when heated and contracts when cooled, at temperatures advantageous for engi ne operati on. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the heat sensitive material may be configured to melt and expand at a temperature in the range of 90°C - 95°C, in the range of 91 °C - 94°C, or in the range of 91 °C - 93°C. Each possibility is a separate embodi ment.

According to some embodiments, the valve may include a lid configured to del i mit the valve from a top end thereof. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the I i d may i ncl ude a f I ange configured to cl ose off the aperture through whi ch coolant f I ui d enters the thermostat from a heat exchanger, such as a radiator. According to some embodiments, the lid may have the form of a disc. According to some embodiments, the lid may be essentially flat According to some embodiments, the lid may be essenti al I y dome formed. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, at I east part of the I i d may have concave shape. According to some embodiments, the lid may have a size and shape configured to improve the flow characteristics of the coolant fluid through the aperture. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the I i d may be si zed and shaped to ensure a gradual increase of flow of the coolant fluid through the opening of the valve as the valve is opened. According to some embodiments, the lid may be sized and shaped to prevent a burst i n the f I ow of cool ant f I ui d through the aperture.

According to some embodiments, the thermostat may include a valve seat As used herei n, the term "valve seat' may refer to part of the thermostat agai nst whi ch the temperature sensitive valve seals. As used herein, the terms "aperture" and "opening" may be i nterchangeably used and may refer to the gap created when the I i d unseal s from valve seat and may be the narrowest point through which the fluid passes into the thermostat. According to some embodiments, the valve seat may be functionally connected to the temperature sensitive valve.

According to some embodiments, the temperature sensitive valve may include a support member configured to del i mit the valve from a bottom end thereof. A ccordi ng to some embodiments, the support member may be a lower bridge. According to some embodiments, the support member may be fixed within the thermostat thereby provi di ng contra force, vi a the f I exi bl e member posi ti oned between the support member and the I i d, to a downward movement of the I i d and f I exi bl e member.

According to some embodiments, when the heat sensitive material is heated the di spl aceabl e pi n may be at I east parti al ly thrust out from the valve body. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, when the di splaceabl e pi n is thrust out from the valve body it may encounter a niche formed withi n the thermostat and configured to provide contra force to the displacement of the di spl aceabl e pi n, thereby affecting a compression force on the flexible member. According to some embodiments, the compression force exerted on the flexible member may gradually displace the temperature sensitive valve from the aperture, thereby al I owi ng f I ow of cool ant f I ui d from a radiator through the aperture into the engine.

According to some embodiments, when the valve seals off the aperture, the cool ant f I ui d f I ows i n a bypass ci rcuitry between the engi ne and the thermostat

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, when the valve is displaced from the seal, the coolant fluid flows through a heat exchanger, such as a radiator, where it gets cooled prior to being circulated back to the engine.

According to some embodiments, the thermostat advantageously includes a position sensor. As used herein, the term "position sensor" may refer to any element configured to measure or otherwise determine the position of a movable part area of interest associated with or in the thermostatic valve. According to some embodiments, a position sensor may be used to determine the position of a movable part area of interest associated with or in the thermostatic valve. According to some embodiments, a position sensor may be used to detect a failure and/or undesired positioni ng of a part/area of interest. According to some embodiments, a position sensor may be used as part of a mechani sm for positi oni ng a part area of i nterest.

According to some embodiments, the position sensor may comprise an electromechanical device. According to some embodiments, the electromechanical device may comprise a metallic or partially metallic member configured to move with the valve lid or other valve part and an electronic sensor or electric circuit configured to al I ow detecti on of the posi ti on of the member by a control I er. According to some embodiments, the controller may be electrically connected to the electric sensor or electric circuit According to some embodiments, the controller may i nduce a current in the electric sensor or electric circuit, creating an electromagnetic field about the electric sensor or electric ci rcuit. According to some embodiments, the controller may be configured to detect movement of the metall ic member by sensing disturbances or changes in the electromagnetic field about the electric sensor or electric circuit

The term "Start to Open (STO) temperature," as used herein, refers to a temperature range at which the thermostat valve is configured to open and to allow coolant fluid flow from the radiator to the engine. As used herein, the term " predetermi ned ST 0 temperature" may refer to the default ST 0 temperature set by the manufacturer.

According to some embodiments, the thermostat disclosed herein may be configured to facilitate elevating the STO temperature above the predetermined STO temperature of the valve, thereby i ncreasi ng the engi ne temperature and fuel uti I i zati on. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the thermostat disci osed herei n may be configured to facilitate lowering the STO temperature below the predetermined STO temperature of the valve, thereby reducing wear and tear on engi ne components. According to some embodi ments, the thermostat disci osed herei n may be configured to faci I itate affecti ng the Start-to-Open (STO) temperature of the valve after installation, during usage, by a user and/or mechanical or electrical controller.

According to some embodiments, the temperature sensitive valve may have a predetermined inherent flow characteristic, which defines the relationship between the valve opening and the flow-rate under constant pressure conditions. It is understood that the relationship between flow-rate and aperture pass area is directly proportional. H owever, different valve character! sti cs may give different valve openi ngs for the same pass area. T he physi cal shape of the valve and seat arrangement someti mes referred to as the valve 'trim', causes a difference in valve opening between valves. According to some embodiments, the valve may be sized and shaped to improve the flow character! sti cs of the cool ant f I ui d through the aperture.

According to some embodiments, the valve may be a fast opening valve. As used herein, the term "fast opening valve" may refer to a valve in which a small lift of the valve from the closed position results in a large change in flow-rate. As a non- limiting example, a valve lift of 50% may result in an orifice pass area and flow-rate of up to 90% of its maximum potential. According to some embodiments, the lid of the fast opening valve may have a shape of a flipped flat bowl. According to some embodiments, the lid of the fast opening valve may at least partially have a convex shape.

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the valve may be a I i near character! sti c valve. As used herein, the term "li near characteristic valve" refers to a valve havi ng a flow- rate directly proportional to the valve lift at a constant differential pressure. A linear valve achieves this by having a linear relationship between the valve lift and the orifice pass area. According to some embodiments, the lid of the linear characteristic valve may have a shape of a dome. According to some embodiments, the lid of the linear characteristic valve may at least partially have a concave shape.

A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the valve may be a I ogarithmi c valve. A s used herein, the term "logarithmic valve," also sometimes known as an "equal percentage" valve, refers to one in which each i ncrement in valve lift increases the flow-rate by a certai n percentage of the previ ous f I ow. A ccordi ng to some embodi ments, the I i d of the logarithmic valve may at least partially have a concave shape and, partially, a convex shape.

Reference is now made to FIG s. 1 A & 1 B. FIG . 1 A schematically shows a side view 10 and a cross-sectional view 20, taken along line F ^" F of side view 10, of a portion of a thermostat 110, configured to control the flow of a coolant fluid from a radiator to an engine, with an exemplary position sensor, according to some embodiments. FIG . 1 B schematically shows a cross-sectional view 30, taken along line F ^" F of the top view of portion of thermostat 110 of FIG . 1A, in a 3D perspective, accordi ng to some embodi ments;

Position sensor 190 as shown, is part of thermostat 110 (only a portion of which is shown in FIG s. 1A & 1 B), is associated with lid 112 of valve 104 and includes a (typically conductive, such as metallic or partially metallic) member 192, an electric circuit 196 and a controller (not shown). Member 192 is substantially cylindrical, having an appendage 194 generally perpendicular to the cyl indrical body. Member 192 resides partly within channel 198 of cylindrical member 197, cylindrical member 197 formed of, or mechanically connected to, a horizontal member 160, itself formed in a body 180 of thermostat 110.

In the exemplary embodi ment shown in FIG s. 1A & 1 B, cylindrical member 197 is also formed of, or mechanically connected to, a roof 170 of body 180 of thermostat 110. Channel 198 has a slightly larger inner diameter than member 192, to allow up and down movement of member 192 within channel 198. E lectric circuit 196 rests on, and is mechanically connected to, horizontal member 160 and is electrically connected to controller. Channel 198 and member 192 also pass through a recess 191 formed in electric circuit 196.

In some embodiments, such as those represented i n FIG s. 1A & 1 B, a tensioning spring 199 may be situated above member 192 within channel 198, for example when member 192 is not fixedly connected to the part area of interest The tensioning spring 199 is tensioned between upper inner wall of thermostat 110 at the top of channel 198 and top of member 192, urgi ng member 192 downward and causi ng member 192 to be i n contact with, or remai n i mbedded withi n, the part area of i nterest.

In some embodiments, such as those represented by FIG s. 1A & 1 B, member 192 is configured to move with lid 112, lid 112 being part of valve 104 (exemplary valves are shown in FIGs. 2A ^" 4 and described below). As shown, member 192 rests on top of lid 112 and tensioning spring 199 urges member 192 downward and causes member 192 to be i n contact with I i d 112. A Iternatively, i n some embodi ments, member 192 may be imbedded within lid 112. In some embodi ments, member 192 is fixedly connected to l id 112. In some embodiments, member 192 is not fixedly connected to lid 112.

Current appl ied to electric circuit 196 by the controller creates an electromagnetic field about electric circuit 196. As member 192 moves up and down, the electromagnetic field about electric circuit 196 is disturbed, particularly due to movement of appendage 194. The controller is configured to detect changes in the electromagnetic field surrounding electric circuit 196, caused by changes in the vertical position of member 192 and appendage 194, in particular. Because member 192 is mechanically associated with lid 112, vertical position of member 192 may be used as an indicator of the position of lid 112 and, by extension, the "open-ness" or ^" closed- ness" of temperature sensitive valve (not fully shown in FIG . 1). Reference is now made to FIG s. 2A & 2B. FIG . 2A schematically shows a top vi ew 100 and a front cross-secti onal vi ew 102, taken al ong I i ne F ^" F of top vi ew 100, of a thermostat 200 having a position sensor 290, in a closed mode, according to some embodiments. FIG . 2B shows a rear cross-sectional view, taken along line F ^" F of the top view of apparatus of FIG . 2A, in a 3D perspective, in a closed mode, according to some embodiments.

Thermostat 200 includes a main body 202 housing a valve 204, configured to bl ock or al I ow f I ow of cool ant f I ui d from radi ator passage 250 to the engi ne ( not shown) therethrough. Valve 204 is here depicted as a linear characteristic valve configured to opti mize the flow of coolant fluid when opened; however, fast opening valves, logarithmic valves or any other type of valve may likewise be utilized and fall within the scope of this disclosure. Valve 204 includes a temperature sensitive actuator 220, a I i d 212, a support member 214 and a spri ng 228, posi ti oned between I i d 212 and support member 214.

Temperature sensitive actuator 220 includes an actuator body 222 containing heat sensitive material 224 configured to expand above a predetermined temperature, and displaceable pin 226 partially disposed within heat sensitive material 224 and partially projecting into niche 252 formed in bridge element 254 of main body 202 of thermostat 200. B ri dge el ement 254 i s substanti al ly cy I i ndri cal and is i ntegral ly formed on, or mechani cal ly fixedly connected to, roof 270 of mai n body 202 of thermostat 200. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIGs. 2A & 2B, bridge element 254 is also formed in and through horizontal member 266, horizontal member 266 being formed of mai n body 202 of thermostat 200.

Extension 232 is integrally formed on or, alternatively, mechanically connected to, I i d 212. A f I ange 213 i s formed on outer upper ri m of I i d 212 of valve 204. E xtensi on 232 perpendicularly extends from a central part of lid 212 and has a lower hollow cyl i ndri cal porti on 218 and an upper annular portion 219 extendi ng outward from lower hollow cyli ndrical portion 218. Upper annular portion 219 is shaped substantially like a flat doughnut with an outer I i p extendi ng upward.

Temperature sensitive actuator 220 is disposed within hollow cylindrical portion 218 and upper annular portion 219 of extension 232 of valve 204. Spring 228, positioned between lid 212 and support member 214, is configured to force closing of valve 204, as long as a predetermined STO temperature (T1) has not been reached, as depictedin FIGs.2A & 2B. Flange 213 is configured to create a valve seal bet eenlid 212 and valve seat 230 when valve 204 is cl osed by spri ng 228 urgi ng I i d 212 upward, thus blocking the flow of fluid through valve 204, from radiator passage 250 to the engine (not shown).

In some embodiments, for example those represented in FIGs. 2A & 2B, thermostat 200 may further i ncl ude a hydraul i c pressure compensati on mechani sm 256. In some embodiments, thermostat 200 may not include a hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism In embodiments having no hydraulic pressure compensation mechani sm, thermostat 200 may al so have no extensi on 232 formed on I i d 212 thereof. All these possibilities are included within the scope of this disclosure.

Hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism 256 includes annular connector 236, O-ri ng 234, and elastic membrane 238 and makes use of upper annular portion 219 of extension 232 of lid 212. Annular connector 236 is located circumferentially to and is mechanically connected to upper annular portion 219 of extension 232 and sealed by O-ri ng 234. A nnular connector 236 is further engagedly associated with i nner wal I 244 of the thermostat by elastic membrane 238. Elastic membrane 238 is substantially annular, with inner and outer lip appendages configured for engaging connector 236 and inner wall 244 of the thermostat, respectively. Together, annular connector 236, elastic membrane 238, temperature sensitive actuator 220 and inner wall 244 of the thermostat form a fluid chamber 246 above lid 212 into which may flow coolant fluid from a radiator. In embodiments having no hydraulic pressure compensation mechanisnri thermostat 200 may also have no annular connector 236, O-ring 234, and elastic membrane 238.

Position sensor 290 includes a member 292 (which is typically metallic or partially metallic), an electric circuit 296, a circuit cover bolt 297 and a controller (not shown). (As opposed to embodiments represented by FIGs 1 A & 1B, embodiments represented by position sensor 290 do not include a tensioning spring.) Member 292 is substantially cylindrical, having an appendage 294 generally perpendicular to the cylindrical body. Member 292 resides within channel 298, formed within cylindrical member 293, cylindrical member 293 being formed of horizontal member 266 in main body 202 of thermostat 200. (In the exemplary embodi ment shown i n FIG s.2A & 2B, cylindrical member 293 is not formed of, or mechanically connected to, roof 270 of outer body 202 of thermostat 200; (compare to exemplary embodi merit of FIG s. 1 A & 1 B). Channel 298 has a slightly larger i nner diameter than the upper portion of member 292 to allow up and down movement of member 292. Channel 298 and member 292 pass through recess 291 in electric circuit 296. E lectric circuit 296 rests on, and is mechanically connected to, horizontal member 266, and is electrically connected to the controller.

In some embodiments, such as those represented by FIG s. 2A & 2B, member 292 is configured to move with annular connector 236. As shown, member 292 is imbedded within annular connector 236. Alternatively, in some embodiments, such as those represented by F I G s. 1 A & 1 B , member 292 may rest on top of annul ar connector 236. In some embodiments, member 292 is fixedly connected to annular connector 236. In some embodiments, member 292 is not fixedly connected to annular connector 236.

C urrent appl ied to electric ci rcuit 296 by a controller creates an electromagnetic field about electric circuit 296. As member 292 moves up and down, the electromagnetic field about electric circuit 296 is disturbed, particularly due to movement of appendage 294. A controller is configured to detect changes in the electromagnetic field surrounding electric circuit 296, caused by changes in the vertical position of member 292 and appendage 294, in particular. Because annular connector 236 is mechanically associated with lid 212, via hollow cylindrical extension 232 and member 292, vertical position of member 292 may be used as an indicator of the position of lid 212 and, by extension, the "open-ness" or ^" closed-ness" of valve 204.

In some embodiments (for example, embodiments with no hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism), member 292 is configured to move with lid 212. In some embodiments, member 292 is imbedded within lid 212. Alternatively, in some embodi ments, member 292 may rest on top of I i d 212. In some embodi ments, member 292 is fixedly connected to lid 212. In some embodiments, member 292 is not fixedly connected to lid 212.

In some embodiments, member 292 is configured to move with an element of temperature sensitive actuator 220 other than I id 212 or annular connector 236. In some embodiments, member 292 may be imbedded within that element. Alternatively, in some embodiments, member 292 may be otherwise mechanically connected or associated with that element In some embodiments, member 292 is fixedly connected to that element In some embodiments, member 292 is not fixedly connected to that element In some embodiment, position sensor 290 is configured to detect movement of element member 292.

In some embodiments such as those represented i n FIG s. 1A & 1 B, a tensioning spring may be situated above member 292 within channel 298, for example when member 292 is not fixedly connected to the part/area of interest The tensioning spring is tensioned between upper inner wall of thermostat 200 at top of channel 298 and top of member 292, urging member 292 downward and causing member 292 to be in contact with, or remain imbedded within, the part/area of interest In some embodiments, such as those represented in FIGs. 2A & 2B, there is no tensioning spri ng.

In operation, hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism 256 functions as descri bed herei n. W hen f I ui d chamber 246 i s f i 11 ed with f I ui d, hydraul i c pressure creates a downward force against l id 212 and upward force against upper annular portion 219 causi ng el asti c membrane 238 to f I ex upward. T hi s rel i eves at I east some of the pressure directed downward against lid 212, thus at least partially compensating for the fluid pressure acti ng on I i d 212.

In its closed operation mode (as depicted in FIGs. 2A & 2B), spri ng 228 is configured to force closing of temperature sensitive actuator 220, as long as fl uid circulating in the engine has not reached a predetermined STO temperature (T1). L id 212 of valve 204 is caused by spring 228 to seal against valve seat 230, thereby preventing flow of coolant fluid from radiator passage 250 to the engine (not shown), through valve 204. Additionally, member 292 is in the uppermost position when valve 204 is closed, appendage 294 being flush or nearly flush with horizontal stop 295 of thermostat body.

It is understood that due to the pressure compensation provided by hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism 256 of the exemplary embodiment in FIG s. 2A & 2B, the force needed to cause temperature sensitive actuator 220 to seal with valve seat 230 is reduced and thus the spring constant of spring 228 may be relatively low, such as 2500 Newton/meter or below. Additionally or alternatively, the STO (Ti) may be reduced, for example to T ₂ where T ₂ < Ti. In some embodi ments, for example those represented in FIG s. 2A & 2B, thermostat 200 may further i nclude hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism 256. In some embodiments, thermostat 200 may not include a hydraulic pressure compensation mechanism. Both possibilities are i ncluded withi n the scope of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, the controller may provide/derive a general valve position information such as "open," "partially open," or "closed". In some embodi ments, the control I er may provi de/derive preci se valve positi on i nf ormati on for example, i n the range of an error not greater than 0.5-3mm (e.g., 1-2mm).

Obtaining position indicators for movable parts/areas of interest in the thermostatic valve may enable detection of failures or undesired behavior of the thermostatic valve and/or assist in positioni ng the part area of interest according to some desired behavior. For example, notified of a failure of the valve to fully open or close, a controller could reduce engine function, shut down the engine and/or notify the user of the need for service. For example, notified of a failure of the valve to close, a controller might attempt to correct for the failure by applying mechanical and/or electrical means to cause or encourage the valve to close. For example, notified of a failure of the valve to fully open, a controller might attempt to correct for the failure by applying mechanical and/or electrical means to cause or encourage the valve to fully open. For example, a controller might be able to control the position of a valve, mechanically or electrically, and thus the rate of flow of coolant to the engine, given position information provided by a position sensor.

Reference is now made to F ig.3A, which schematically illustrates a common thermostat 300, essentially similar to thermostat 110 of Fig.lA, at a closed position. Thermostat 300 includes an engine-inlet orifice 354 configured to provide coolant fluids from the engine, an engine-outlet orifice 352 for providi ng coolant fluids from thermostat 300 to the engine, and a radiator- inlet orifice 350, configured to provide coolant fluids from a radiator to thermostat 300. Thermostat 300 further includes an internal aperture 356, defining a source chamber 340 which is configured to contain fluidsfromthe radiator provided via radiator- inlet orifice 350, and a drain chamber 342, configured to contain fluids to be provided to the engine via engine-outlet orifice 352. Aperture 356 is opened and closed to facilitate or obstruct flow of fluids therethrough respectively, by a valve 336 which is movable by a thermal -actuator 330 mechanically connected thereto, between a closed position in which valve 336 is introduced and pressed against aperture 356, and an open position in which valve 336 is moved apart from aperture 356.

Thermostat 300 further includes a valve position sensor 370 comprised of an elongated member, such as displaceable pin 372, which is pressed downwards by a spring 374 to contact valve 336, following the displacement movement thereof. Mechanically connected to (or integrated with) displaceable pin 372 is a support- member 376 on which spring 374 presses. Position sensor 370 further includes a pin- displacement sensor 378 which is configured to provide a signal indicative of the position of displaceable pin 372.

A s i 11 ustrated, the temperature at drai n chamber 342 i s bel ow the predetermi ned threshol d, such that the wax 334 withi n thermo-actuator 330 is contracted, and pi n 332 is not pushed against support frame 310, and a spring 338 presses valve 336 to close aperture 356 with support provided by lower bridge 358, and obstruct flow of fluids from source chamber 340 to drain chamber 342. As a result, displaceable pin 372 is pushed upwardly by valve 336, and pin-displacement sensor 378 provides indication of the elevated position of displaceable pin 372, which indicates that valve 336 is pressed agai nst aperture 356, bl ocki ng the f I ow of f I ui ds therethrough.

Reference is now made to F ig.3B, which schematically illustrates a thermostat 300, essentially as disclosed i n F ig.3A, at an open position. When the temperature at drai n chamber 342 reaches the predetermined threshold, wax 334 is expanded and pushes pin 332 outwardly, then support frame 310 provides mechanical contra to the extension of pin 332, pushing thermal -actuator 330 and valve 336 downwardly, affecti ng an opening of aperture 356, to facilitate flow of fluids from source chamber 340 to drain chamber 342. As result displaceable pin 372 is pushed downwardly by spring 374, and pin- displacement sensor 378 provides i ndication of the descended position of displaceable pin 372, which indicates that valve 336 is pushed away from aperture 356, al I owi ng the f I ow of f I ui ds therethrough. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms ^" a_, ^" an_ and ^" the_ are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It wil l be further understood that the terms ^" comprises _, or ^" comprising, _ when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude or rule out the presence or addition of one or more other features, i ntegers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, additions and subcombinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced be interpreted to include all such modifications, additions and sub-combi nations as are withi n thei r true spi rit and scope.