Multi-way valve, method for controlling the same, thermal management system and vehicle

Abstract

This invention discloses a multi-way valve and its control method, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. The multi-way valve includes a drive motor, a valve body, a valve core, a micro switch, and a triggering structure. The valve body has multiple spaced-apart valve ports and a mounting cavity. The valve core is located in the mounting cavity and has multiple sets of spaced-apart flow channels. The drive motor is located in the valve body and connected to the valve core to drive the valve core to rotate relative to the valve body, thereby switching the multi-way valve between multiple connected states. One of the micro switch and the triggering structure is located on the valve body, and the other is located on the valve core. During the rotation of the valve core relative to the valve body, the triggering structure intermittently triggers the micro switch to determine the rotation angle of the valve core. The micro switch communicates with the drive motor. Thus, by rotating the valve core relative to the valve body, the triggering structure can intermittently trigger the micro switch to obtain the current angular position of the valve core. The micro switch can also feed back a signal to the drive motor, facilitating precise control of the valve core's rotation angle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of multi-way valve technology, and in particular to a multi-way valve and its control method, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] For new energy vehicles, the Thermal Management System (TMS) plays a core role. Its internal structure is complex and typically contains multiple loops. To regulate the flow direction and flow rate of the fluid medium and ensure vehicle temperature management, the TMS usually employs multi-way valves. These valves control the movement of the valve core to connect different flow channels, thereby controlling the flow and direction of multiple input and output pipes to meet thermal management requirements.

[0003] In related technologies, multi-way valves typically include a valve body and an actuator. The actuator includes a drive motor, and the valve body includes a valve core and a valve shell. When the valve core is in different positions, the frictional torque between the valve shell and the valve core may be different. The drive motor needs to overcome the frictional torque between the valve core and the valve shell to keep the valve core rotating. However, if the output torque of the drive motor is less than or close to the frictional torque, the valve core may be at risk of stalling. Therefore, the valve core control strategy based on the stall signal of the drive motor is prone to misjudgment. Moreover, when multiple valve cores are used, they are usually controlled in a predetermined order and logic, which leads to limited use, complex control, higher cost, and larger space occupation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a multi-way valve and its control method, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. By rotating the valve core relative to the valve body, a triggering structure can intermittently trigger a microswitch to obtain the current angular position of the valve core. The microswitch can also feed the signal back to the drive motor, facilitating precise control of the valve core's rotation angle. This reduces the impact of valve core stall on the determination of the valve core's rotation angle and lowers the probability of misjudgment.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a multi-way valve includes: a drive motor, a valve housing, a valve core, a micro switch, and a triggering structure. The valve housing has multiple spaced-apart valve ports and a mounting cavity inside the valve housing. The valve core is disposed in the mounting cavity and has multiple sets of spaced-apart flow channels. The drive motor is disposed in the valve housing and connected to the valve core to drive the valve core to rotate relative to the valve housing, so that the multi-way valve switches between multiple connected states. The micro switch communicates with the drive motor. One of the micro switch and the triggering structure is disposed on the valve housing, and the other is disposed on the valve core. During the rotation of the valve core relative to the valve housing, the triggering structure intermittently triggers the micro switch to determine the rotation angle of the valve core.

[0006] According to an embodiment of the multi-way valve of the present invention, one of the micro switch and the triggering structure is disposed on the valve body, and the other is disposed on the valve core. This allows the triggering structure to intermittently trigger the micro switch when the valve core rotates relative to the valve body. Once triggered, the micro switch can send a corresponding signal to the drive motor, enabling the drive motor to obtain the current angular position of the valve core. This facilitates the determination of the valve core's continued rotation angle toward the target angular position, thereby improving the accuracy of the valve core rotating to the target angular position. Consequently, precise control of the valve core's rotation angle is achieved, and the impact of valve core stall on the determination of the valve core's rotation angle is reduced, lowering the probability of misjudgment.

[0007] In some embodiments, the mounting cavity includes a first chamber and a second chamber arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core. The micro switch and the triggering structure are both located in the first chamber. The valve core includes a shaft portion and a core portion. The core portion is located in the second chamber and is arranged around the outer periphery of the shaft portion. Multiple sets of flow channels are formed on the core portion. All valve ports are formed on the second chamber. The shaft portion is rotatably engaged with the valve housing. The shaft portion extends axially from the second chamber to the first chamber. A sealing element is provided between the valve core and the valve housing to separate the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second chamber includes a first cavity and a second cavity arranged sequentially along the valve core axial direction. The second cavity is located between the second chamber and the first cavity. The micro switch and the triggering structure are both located in the first cavity. A transmission mechanism is provided between the drive motor and the valve core. The valve core cooperates with the transmission mechanism. At least a portion of the transmission mechanism is located in the second cavity. The shaft portion extends axially from the second chamber to the first cavity.

[0009] In some embodiments, the valve housing includes a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core. A first cavity is defined between the second housing and the first housing, and a second cavity is defined between the second housing and the third housing. The third housing has a second chamber. In a first direction, the size of the first housing is smaller than the size of the second housing. A drive motor crosses the first housing along the first direction and is fixed to the second housing. The first direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core.

[0010] In some embodiments, the triggering structure is formed as a cam sleeved on the outside of the shaft portion, and the micro switch is fixed on the valve housing and located on the outer periphery of the cam.

[0011] In some embodiments, one of the valve housing and the valve core has a mounting structure defining a mounting groove. The mounting groove has a first opening on one side of the valve core in the axial direction, a second opening on the side facing the trigger structure, and a clearance opening on the side away from the trigger structure. The first opening is configured to allow a micro switch to pass through and engage in the mounting groove. The drive rod of the micro switch extends out of the second opening, and the terminals of the micro switch extend out of the clearance opening. A limit hole is formed on the bottom wall of the mounting groove. The micro switch has a limit post that limits engagement with the limit hole. And / or, in the circumferential direction of the valve core, the size of the clearance opening is smaller than the size of the micro switch so that the micro switch abuts against the clearance opening.

[0012] In some embodiments, the triggering structure includes a plurality of trigger points spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core.

[0013] In some embodiments, multiple trigger points are configured one-to-one with multiple flow channel groups, so that when each flow channel group switches to communicate with the corresponding valve port, the corresponding trigger point triggers a micro switch.

[0014] In some embodiments, there are multiple valve cores and mounting cavities. The multiple valve cores include a first valve core and a second valve core. A transmission mechanism is provided between the drive motor and the multiple valve cores. Each valve core cooperates with the transmission mechanism through a one-way bearing. Each valve core corresponds to a micro switch and a trigger structure. The multi-way valve has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the drive motor rotates forward to drive the first valve core to rotate, while the second valve core does not rotate. In the second state, the drive motor rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core to rotate, while the first valve core does not rotate.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first valve core and the second valve core are spaced apart along a second direction, and the micro switch is fixed to the valve housing. The two micro switches corresponding to the first valve core and the second valve core are respectively located on the side of the first valve core and the second valve core that is opposite to the other in the second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core.

[0016] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a control method for a multi-way valve, wherein the multi-way valve is a multi-way valve according to a first aspect of the present invention, the control method includes: a triggering structure triggering a micro switch each time, the micro switch feeding back a signal to a drive motor to determine the rotation angle of the valve core toward the target angular position based on the position of the micro switch.

[0017] According to the control system of the multi-way valve of the present invention, after the triggering structure triggers the micro switch, the micro switch can feed back a signal to the drive motor so that the drive motor can obtain the current angular position of the valve core, which facilitates the determination of the rotation angle of the valve core towards the target position, thereby achieving precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core.

[0018] In some embodiments, there are multiple microswitches arranged at circumferential intervals, and at least two microswitches are configured to output different signals when triggered. The control method further includes determining the rotation direction of the valve core based on the order of the output signals of the at least two microswitches.

[0019] A thermal management system according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a multi-way valve according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0020] A vehicle according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes a multi-way valve according to a first aspect of the present invention or a thermal management system according to a third aspect of the present invention.

[0021] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a multi-way valve according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve shown;

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A circled in the image;

[0026] Figure 4 This is an assembly diagram of a drive motor, a first housing, and a second housing according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Another assembly diagram of the drive motor, the first housing, and the second housing shown;

[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 An assembly diagram of the first and second housings shown;

[0029] Figure 7 This is an assembly diagram of a valve core, a first housing, a micro switch, and a triggering structure according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the first housing shown;

[0031] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the multi-way valve shown in the image;

[0032] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the micro switch shown;

[0033] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the control flow of a multi-way valve according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] Figure label:

[0036] Multi-way valve 100, thermal management system 200, vehicle 300,

[0037] Drive motor 1

[0038] Valve housing 2, valve port 2a, mounting cavity 20, first chamber 20a, second chamber 20b, first cavity 20c, second cavity 20d, first housing 21, first part 21a, second part 21b, third part 21c, second housing 22, connecting part 22a, third housing 23, mounting structure 24, mounting groove 24a, first opening 24b, second opening 24c, clearance opening 24d, limiting hole 24e.

[0039] Valve core 3, flow channel assembly 30, switching flow channel 30a, shaft body 31, core body 32, first valve core 33, second valve core 34.

[0040] Micro switch 4, limit post 40, transmission rod 41, terminal block 42, switch body 43, first insert 44, second insert 45, transmission part 46.

[0041] Trigger structure 5, trigger point 51

[0042] Seal 6

[0043] Transmission mechanism 7, power input component 71, power output component 72

[0044] 8. One-way bearing. Detailed Implementation

[0045] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0046] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. Additionally, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the applicability of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0047] In the description of the embodiments in this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0048] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a multi-way valve 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the multi-way valve 100 includes a drive motor 1, a valve housing 2, and a valve core 3. The valve housing 2 has multiple spaced valve ports 2a and an installation cavity 20 inside the valve housing 2. The valve core 3 is located in the installation cavity 20 and has multiple sets of spaced flow channels 30. The drive motor 1 is located in the valve housing 2 and is connected to the valve core 3 to drive the valve core 3 to rotate relative to the valve housing 2, so that the multi-way valve 100 switches between multiple connected states.

[0050] As can be seen, by rotating the valve core 3 relative to the valve housing 2, different flow channel groups 30 can correspond to the valve ports 2a on the valve housing 2, so that the multi-way valve 100 has multiple different connection states and can switch between multiple connection states, thereby realizing the control of the fluid medium by the multi-way valve 100. The fluid medium can enter the interior of the valve housing 2 from the valve port 2a and the corresponding flow channel group 30, and flow out from the interior of the valve housing 2 through the flow channel group 30 and the corresponding valve port 2a. The fluid medium can be water, antifreeze, or other fluids, which are not limited here. The flow channel group 30 can include one switching flow channel 30a or multiple switching flow channels 30a arranged at intervals. The switching flow channel 30a is used to connect at least two valve ports 2a.

[0051] It can be understood that the valve core 3 has a rotation axis L. The extension direction of the rotation axis L is the axial direction of the valve core 3 and the axial direction of the multi-way valve 100. The direction around the rotation axis L is the circumferential direction of the valve core 3 and the circumferential direction of the multi-way valve 100. In the radial plane, the direction passing through the rotation axis L is the radial direction of the valve core 3 and the radial direction of the multi-way valve 100. The radial plane is perpendicular to the rotation axis L.

[0052] In this embodiment, there can be one or more valve cores 3. For a single valve core 3, the valve structure formed by the valve core 3 and the valve body 2 can be a three-way valve, four-way valve, five-way valve, six-way valve, seven-way valve, eight-way valve, nine-way valve, etc. When there are multiple valve cores 3, the types of valve structures corresponding to the multiple valve cores 3 can be the same or different. Therefore, the number of valve ports 2a corresponding to the multiple valve cores 3 can be equal or unequal. For example, the valve structures corresponding to multiple valve cores 3 can all be six-way valves (as shown in the figure), or one valve core 3 can be a six-way valve and another valve core 3 can be an eight-way valve. The switching of the valve structure corresponding to a single valve core 3 between multiple connected states can include, but is not limited to, switching of any one or more of the following aspects: first, switching of connected valve ports 2a; second, switching of the number of connected valve ports 2a. If there is only one valve core 3, then the switching of the connection state of the valve structure corresponding to the valve core 3 is the switching of the connection state of the multi-way valve 100; if there are multiple valve cores 3, then the switching of the connection state of the valve structure corresponding to at least one valve core 3 is the switching of the connection state of the multi-way valve 100.

[0053] Taking a single valve core 3 as an example, the three valve ports 2a can be the first valve port, the second valve port, and the third valve port, respectively. The valve structure corresponding to the valve core 3 can have at least two of the following connection states: 1. In the first connection state, the first valve port is connected to the second valve port, and the third valve port is disconnected; 2. In the second connection state, the first valve port is connected to the third valve port, and the second valve port is disconnected; 3. In the third connection state, the second valve port is connected to the third valve port, and the first valve port is disconnected; 4. The first valve port, the second valve port, and the third valve port are connected to each other in pairs; 5. The first valve port, the second valve port, and the third valve port are disconnected in pairs.

[0054] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the multi-way valve 100 also includes a micro switch 4 and a triggering structure 5. One of the micro switch 4 and the triggering structure 5 is located on the valve body 2, and the other is located on the valve core 3. During the rotation of the valve core 3 relative to the valve body 2, the triggering structure 5 intermittently triggers the micro switch 4 to determine the rotation angle of the valve core 3. The micro switch 4 communicates with the drive motor 1.

[0055] As can be seen, the micro switch 4 is located on the valve body 2 and the triggering structure 5 is located on the valve core 3, or the micro switch 4 is located on the valve core 3 and the triggering structure 5 is located on the valve body 2. The relative movement of the valve core 3 relative to the valve body 2 can realize the relative movement of the micro switch 4 and the triggering structure 5. As the valve core 3 rotates relative to the valve body 2, the triggering structure 5 can move between the triggering posture of the micro switch 4 and other postures that do not trigger the micro switch 4, so that the micro switch 4 switches between the triggered state and the untriggered state.

[0056] It is understandable that the frequency at which the triggering structure 5 triggers the microswitch 4 during the rotation of the valve core 3 relative to the valve shell 2 is not specifically limited. For example, if the triggering structure 5 has at least one trigger point 51, when the triggering structure 5 moves to the triggering posture, one of the trigger points 51 will move to the triggering position to trigger the microswitch 4. If the triggering structure 5 has one trigger point 51, and the valve core 3 rotates one revolution relative to the valve shell 2, the triggering structure 5 will trigger the microswitch 4 once. If the triggering structure 5 has multiple trigger points 51 spaced apart, and the valve core 3 rotates one revolution relative to the valve shell 2, the triggering structure 5 will trigger the microswitch 4 multiple times. The trigger point 51 does not necessarily mean that the structure on the triggering structure 5 that can trigger the microswitch 4 is a point-like structure; the structural form of the trigger point 51 is not specifically limited, and it can be, for example, a protrusion.

[0057] For example, each time the triggering structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4, it indicates that the triggering structure 5 has moved to the triggering posture, which means that the corresponding triggering point 51 on the triggering structure 5 has moved to the triggering position. Or it can be understood that the micro switch 4 will only be triggered when the corresponding triggering point 51 is physically in place. Thus, the current angular position of the valve core 3 can be determined by triggering the micro switch 4. After the micro switch 4 is triggered, it switches to the triggering state and can feed back a corresponding signal to the drive motor 1 so that the drive motor 1 can obtain the current angular position of the valve core 3. This makes it easier to determine the rotation angle of the valve core 3 towards the target angular position, thereby improving the accuracy of the valve core 3 rotating to the target angular position.

[0058] It is understandable that during certain switching processes, as the valve core 3 rotates from its current angular position to the target angular position, the triggering structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4 at least once. Each trigger update updates the current angular position of the valve core 3, allowing for a correction of the rotation angle required for subsequent rotation to the target angular position. This helps reduce the impact of the valve core 3's rotation error on its rotation angle and improves the accuracy of the valve core 3's rotation control. Furthermore, the micro switch 4 is only triggered after the triggering structure 5 is in position in space. Even if the valve core 3 becomes blocked due to external forces or impurities in the medium, it will not affect the accurate determination of the current position angle by the micro switch 4. Therefore, the signal fed back by the micro switch 4 is also relatively accurate and reliable.

[0059] In related technologies, the frictional torque between the valve core and the valve body may vary depending on the valve core's position. The drive motor needs to overcome this frictional torque to keep the valve core rotating. However, if the output torque of the drive motor is less than or close to the frictional torque, the valve core may be at risk of stalling. Therefore, the valve core control strategy based on the stall signal of the drive motor is prone to misjudgment. In contrast, in the multi-way valve 100 of the present invention, even if the valve core 3 stalls, the micro switch 4 is only triggered after the triggering structure 5 is in position in space. Only after the micro switch 4 is triggered can it send a corresponding signal to the drive motor 1, so that the stalling of the valve core 3 will not affect the accurate determination of the current position angle by the micro switch 4, allowing the drive motor 1 to more accurately adjust the rotation angle of the valve core 3.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the multi-way valve 100 of the present invention, one of the micro switch 4 and the triggering structure 5 is disposed on the valve housing 2, and the other is disposed on the valve core 3. When the valve core 3 rotates relative to the valve housing 2, the triggering structure 5 can trigger the micro switch 4. After being triggered, the micro switch 4 can feed back a corresponding signal to the drive motor 1, so that the drive motor 1 can obtain the current angular position of the valve core 3, facilitating the determination of the rotation angle of the valve core 3 towards the target angular position, thereby improving the accuracy of the valve core 3 rotating to the target angular position. This facilitates precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3 and reduces the impact of stall on the determination of the valve core rotation angle, lowering the probability of misjudgment.

[0061] It is understood that the embodiments of this application can be applied to both scenarios where the drive motor 1 drives the valve core 3 to rotate unidirectionally relative to the valve shell 2 and scenarios where the drive motor 1 drives the valve core 3 to rotate bidirectionally relative to the valve shell 2. Regardless of the scenario, the rotation direction of the valve shell 2 can be set by limiting the rotation direction of the drive motor 1. For example, for unidirectional rotation of the valve core 3 relative to the valve shell 2, the drive motor 1 can be configured to rotate unidirectionally (e.g., a unidirectional drive motor), or the drive motor 1 can be unrestricted (e.g., the drive motor 1 can rotate bidirectionally), and a one-way bearing 8 can be provided between the drive motor 1 and the valve core 3; for bidirectional rotation of the valve core 3 relative to the valve shell 2, the drive motor 1 can be configured to rotate bidirectionally.

[0062] For example, the micro switch 4 can be configured as a contact trigger, corresponding to the initial zero position setting of the valve core 3. When the valve core 3 rotates to the initial zero position, the trigger structure 5 can contact the micro switch 4. After being triggered, the micro switch 4 can send a corresponding signal to the drive motor 1, thereby determining that the valve core 3 has rotated to the initial zero position. When the valve core 3 has not rotated to the initial zero position, the trigger structure 5 does not contact the micro switch 4, and the micro switch 4 does not send a corresponding signal to the drive motor 1, thereby determining that the valve core 3 has not yet rotated to the initial zero position. This facilitates the automated detection of the rotation angle of the valve core 3. Of course, the micro switch 4 may not correspond to the initial zero position setting of the valve core 3; it can also be configured as a non-contact trigger.

[0063] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the mounting cavity 20 includes a first chamber 20a and a second chamber 20b arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core 3. The micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are both located in the first chamber 20a. The valve core 3 includes a shaft portion 31 and a core portion 32. The core portion 32 is located in the second chamber 20b and is arranged around the outer periphery of the shaft portion 31. Multiple sets of flow channel groups 30 are formed on the core portion 32. All valve ports 2a are formed on the second chamber 20b. The shaft portion 31 is rotatably engaged with the valve housing 2, and the shaft portion 31 extends from the second chamber 20b through the valve core 3 along the axial direction to the first chamber 20a. A sealing element 6 is provided between the valve core 3 and the valve housing 2 to separate the first chamber 20a and the second chamber 20b.

[0064] As can be seen, the core part 32 is located in the second chamber 20b, and the flow channel group 30 and valve port 2a are both located in the second chamber 20b, so that the fluid medium can only flow in the second chamber 20b. The micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are both located in the first chamber 20a, so that the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are separated from the core part 32. The first chamber 20a and the second chamber 20b are separated by the sealing member 6, so that the fluid medium in the second chamber 20b is not easy to flow into the first chamber 20a. Thus, the fluid medium is not likely to affect the normal operation of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5. The micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 can operate in a relatively stable working environment, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 and improving the stability of the multi-way valve 100. At the same time, the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are located on the axial side of the valve core 3, so that the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 can make fuller use of the axial space of the valve core 3 and are less likely to increase the radial space occupied by the multi-way valve 100.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the second chamber 20b includes a first cavity 20c and a second cavity 20d arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core 3. The second cavity 20d is located between the second chamber 20b and the first cavity 20c. The micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are both located in the first cavity 20c. A transmission mechanism 7 is provided between the drive motor 1 and the valve core 3. The valve core 3 cooperates with the transmission mechanism 7. At least a part of the transmission mechanism 7 is located in the second cavity 20d. The shaft part 31 extends axially from the second chamber 20b to the first cavity 20c.

[0066] As can be seen, the first cavity 20c is separated from the second chamber 20b by the second cavity 20d. The micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are both located in the first cavity 20c, so that even if the fluid medium in the second chamber 20b leaks, it is not easy for it to flow into the first cavity 20c. At the same time, the second cavity 20d can also play a certain role in heat insulation. When the second chamber 20b is working, the temperature of the fluid medium inside it may be very high. By separating the first cavity 20c and the second chamber 20b by the second cavity 20d, the temperature is not easily transferred to the first cavity 20c, thereby affecting the normal operation of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5. This allows the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 to work at a relatively stable temperature, which helps to improve the reliability of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5.

[0067] Furthermore, by arranging the first cavity 20c, the second cavity 20d, and the second chamber 20b along the axial direction of the multi-way valve 100, the axial space of the multi-way valve 100 can be effectively utilized, making the structure of the multi-way valve 100 more compact. It can be understood that the arrangement of the second cavity 20d not only reduces the influence of the fluid medium in the second chamber 20b on the microswitch 4 and the trigger structure 5 located in the first cavity 20c, but also provides space for the arrangement of the transmission mechanism 7.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figures 2-6 and Figure 9 As shown, the valve housing 2 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22 and a third housing 23 arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core 3. A first cavity 20c is defined between the second housing 22 and the first housing 21, and a second cavity 20d is defined between the second housing 22 and the third housing 23. The third housing 23 has a second chamber 20b.

[0069] It is evident that by arranging the first housing 21, the second housing 22, and the third housing 23 axially, the assembly method of the multi-way valve 100 becomes simpler and clearer. For example, the operator can first assemble the valve core 3 with the third housing 23, so that the core part 32 is located in the second chamber 20b and the shaft part 31 passes through the third housing 23. Then, the transmission mechanism 7 is assembled with the shaft part 31. Next, the shaft part 31 is passed through the second housing 22, so that at least a part of the transmission mechanism 7 is located in the second cavity 20d. Finally, the drive motor 1 and the first housing 21 are assembled into the second housing 22. This facilitates the assembly of the multi-way valve 100 and improves the assembly efficiency of the multi-way valve 100.

[0070] Wherein, in the first direction, the dimensions of the first housing 21 (e.g.) Figure 4 d1) is smaller than the size of the second housing 22 (e.g. Figure 4 In the first cavity 20c defined between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are disposed in the first cavity 20c defined between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The first direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core 3. By setting the size of the first housing 21 in the first direction to be smaller than the size of the second housing 22 in the first direction, the structure of the multi-way valve 100 is made more compact while meeting the arrangement requirements of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5, which facilitates the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve 100. The drive motor 1 crosses the first housing 21 along the first direction and is fixed to the second housing 22. The second housing 22, which has a larger size in the first direction, can provide a more stable support surface, making the installation of the drive motor 1 more stable and reliable. At the same time, the installation position of the drive motor 1 is not easily restricted, so that the setting position of the drive motor 1 is more flexible, and at the same time, it is convenient to provide sufficient arrangement space for the transmission mechanism 7. In addition, the drive motor 1 can also cover the first housing 21 to a certain extent, so that the multi-way valve 100 is less likely to directly contact the first housing 21 when it is subjected to impact or external force, thereby damaging the micro switch 4 and trigger structure 5 arranged in the first cavity 20c, which helps to improve the reliability of the multi-way valve 100.

[0071] It is understood that in the second direction, the size of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 is not limited. The size of the first housing 21 in the second direction can be equal to the size of the second housing 22 in the second direction, or the size of the first housing 21 in the second direction can be smaller than the size of the second housing 22 in the second direction, so that the setting position of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 can be more flexible and adaptable to different installation conditions.

[0072] For example, if the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are detachably connected, it is convenient to maintain the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5. In this case, the first housing 21 can be removed without disassembling the drive motor 1. Especially when both the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5 are offset from the drive motor 1 in the second direction, removing the first housing 21 can expose the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5, which is convenient for maintenance.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figures 7-9 As shown, the trigger structure 5 is formed as a cam sleeved on the outside of the shaft part 31, and the micro switch 4 is fixed on the valve housing 2 and is located on the outer periphery of the cam.

[0074] As can be seen, the triggering structure 5 of the cam has a triggering point 51, so that after the cam rotates one revolution with the shaft body 31, the cam will only trigger the micro switch 4 once. The operator can obtain the current angular position of the valve core 3 according to the setting position of the micro switch 4. The micro switch 4 then feeds the signal back to the drive motor 1, thereby determining the rotation angle of the valve core 3 towards the target angular position, which facilitates precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3.

[0075] In addition, the triggering structure 5 is a cam. The structure of the cam is relatively simple and easy to manufacture. At the same time, the assembly of the cam and the shaft body 31 is relatively simple.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figures 7-9 As shown, one of the valve housing 2 and the valve core 3 has a mounting structure 24, which defines a mounting groove 24a. The mounting groove 24a has a first opening 24b on one side of the valve core 3 in the axial direction, a second opening 24c on the side facing the trigger structure 5, and a clearance opening 24d on the side away from the trigger structure 5. The first opening 24b is configured to allow the micro switch 4 to pass through and engage in the mounting groove 24a. The transmission rod 41 of the micro switch 4 extends out of the second opening 24c, and the terminal block 42 of the micro switch 4 extends out of the clearance opening 24d.

[0077] As can be seen, the mounting groove 24a has a first opening 24b on one side of the valve core 3 along the axial direction. The first opening 24b allows the micro switch 4 to pass through and engage with the mounting groove 24a. That is, the micro switch 4 can be assembled into the mounting groove 24a from the axial side of the valve core 3 through the first opening 24b, so that the assembly direction of the micro switch 4 and the mounting groove 24a is approximately the same as the assembly direction of the multi-way valve 100, which helps to reduce the assembly difficulty of the multi-way valve 100. The mounting groove 24a has a second opening 24c on the side facing the trigger structure 5. The second opening 24c allows the transmission rod 41 of the micro switch 4 to extend out, so that the transmission rod 41 and the trigger structure 5 can make better contact and are less affected by the mounting groove 24a, which helps to improve the trigger structure 5. The stability and triggering reliability of the micro switch 4 are improved; the mounting groove 24a has a relief opening 24d on the side away from the triggering structure 5. The relief opening 24d allows the terminal 42 of the micro switch 4 to extend out. The terminal 42 can be connected to the drive motor 1 so that the micro switch 4 and the drive motor 1 can communicate. Moreover, by setting the relief opening 24d and the second opening 24c on both sides respectively, the terminal 42 is less likely to affect the contact between the transmission rod 41 and the triggering structure 5, which helps to improve the stability of the contact between the micro switch 4 and the triggering structure 5. At the same time, it provides more operating space for the arrangement of the terminal 42, reduces the wiring difficulty when connecting the terminal 42 and the drive motor 1, and facilitates the improvement of the assembly efficiency of the multi-way valve 100.

[0078] Furthermore, a limiting hole 24e is formed on the bottom wall of the mounting groove 24a. The limiting post 40 of the micro switch 4 is fitted into the limiting hole 24e, which helps to limit the movement of the micro switch 4 within the mounting groove 24a, making the setting position of the micro switch 4 more stable and improving the stability of the contact between the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5. When the trigger structure 5 contacts the transmission rod 41, even if the trigger structure 5 applies a force to the micro switch 4, the movement of the micro switch 4 can still be limited by the cooperation of the limiting hole 24e and the limiting post 40, making the setting position of the micro switch 4 within the mounting groove 24a more stable; and / or, in the circumferential direction of the valve core 3, the size of the clearance port 24d (e.g.) Figure 7 d3) is smaller than the size of microswitch 4 (e.g. Figure 7 The d4 in the middle is used to stop the micro switch 4 at the relief opening 24d, so that the micro switch 4 is not easy to disengage from the mounting groove 24a through the relief opening 24d. At the same time, the relief opening 24d and the second opening 24c are located on both sides of the mounting groove 24a, so that when the trigger structure 5 contacts the transmission rod 41, even if the trigger structure 5 applies a force to the micro switch 4, the movement of the micro switch 4 can still be restricted by the relief opening 24d, so that the setting position of the micro switch 4 in the mounting groove 24a is more stable, and the micro switch 4 can be kept in the preset position in contact with the trigger structure 5, reducing the possibility of detection error and facilitating the accurate detection of the current angle of the valve core 3.

[0079] In some embodiments, the triggering structure 5 includes a plurality of trigger points 51 spaced apart along the circumference of the valve core 3. During the rotation of the valve core 3 relative to the valve housing 2, the plurality of trigger points 51 can trigger the micro switch 4 in sequence. The operator can determine how much the valve core 3 has rotated based on the angle difference between two trigger points 51, which facilitates precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3.

[0080] For example, multiple trigger points 51 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the valve core 3. The initial position of one of the trigger points 51 is set at the position triggered by the micro switch 4. The rotation angle of the valve core 3 when the micro switch 4 receives a signal is determined based on the positional difference in the circumferential direction between the trigger point 51 set at the position triggered by the micro switch 4 and other trigger points 51.

[0081] In some embodiments, multiple trigger points 51 are configured one-to-one with multiple flow channel groups 30, so that when each flow channel group 30 switches to communicate with the corresponding valve port 2a, the corresponding trigger point 51 triggers the micro switch 4. Thus, when each flow channel group 30 switches to communicate with the corresponding valve port 2a, the corresponding trigger point 51 can trigger the micro switch 4 to determine the rotation angle of the valve core 3, improve the angular position accuracy of the valve core 3 when the flow channel group 30 communicates with the corresponding valve port 2a, and enable the flow channel group 30 and the corresponding valve port 2a to communicate better, reducing the misalignment error between the two in the circumferential direction.

[0082] For example, the multi-way valve 100 has three sets of flow channel groups 30. The triggering structure 5 includes three trigger points 51 spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core 3. The three trigger points 51 correspond one-to-one with the three sets of flow channel groups 30. When each set of flow channel groups 30 switches to connect with the corresponding valve port 2a, its corresponding trigger point 51 can trigger the micro switch 4, indicating that the valve core 3 has rotated to the position where the corresponding flow channel group 30 and the corresponding valve port 2a are connected, thereby achieving accurate switching connection between the corresponding flow channel group 30 and the corresponding valve port 2a. The multi-way valve 100 also has four sets of flow channel groups 30. The triggering structure 5 includes four trigger points 51 spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core 3. The four trigger points 51 correspond one-to-one with the four sets of flow channel groups 30. When each set of flow channel groups 30 switches to connect with the corresponding valve port 2a, its corresponding trigger point 51 can trigger the micro switch 4, thereby achieving accurate switching connection between the corresponding flow channel group 30 and the corresponding valve port 2a.

[0083] It is understandable that during the process of each flow channel group 30 switching to connect with the valve port 2a, the moment when the corresponding trigger point 51 triggers the micro switch 4 can be the same moment as the moment when the opening of the flow channel group 30 is relatively connected with the valve port 2a. Alternatively, the moment when the corresponding trigger point 51 triggers the micro switch 4 can be earlier than the moment when the opening of the flow channel group 30 is relatively connected with the valve port 2a.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the micro switch 4 includes a switch body 43, a first insert 44, a second insert 45, a terminal block 42, a transmission part 46, and a transmission rod 41. The first insert 44 and the second insert 45 are disposed inside the switch body 43 and are spaced apart. One end of the transmission part 46 is fixed with the first insert 44, and the other end is in contact with the transmission rod 41. One end of the second insert 45 is electrically connected to the terminal block 42, and the other end is spaced apart from the second insert 45. When the triggering structure 5 contacts the transmission rod 41, the transmission rod 41 can drive the transmission part 46 to move, thereby making the first insert 44 and the second insert 45 contact, so as to realize the electrical conduction of the first insert 44 and the second insert 45, so that the micro switch 4 remains in the triggered state. When the triggering structure 5 does not contact the transmission rod 41, the first insert 44 and the second insert 45 remain spaced apart, the first insert 44 and the second insert 45 cannot achieve electrical conduction, and the micro switch 4 remains in the untriggered state. As can be seen, the triggering structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4 through contact. The micro switch 4 can switch from the non-triggered state to the triggered state, realizing the electrical conduction of the first insert 44 and the second insert 45. Then, the electrical signal can be transmitted to the drive motor 1 through the terminal 42. According to the setting position of the micro switch 4, the current angle of the valve core 3 can be obtained, so as to determine the rotation angle of the valve core 3 towards the target angle position, which is beneficial to the precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3.

[0085] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, there are multiple valve cores 3 and mounting cavities 20. The multiple valve cores 3 include a first valve core 33 and a second valve core 34. A transmission mechanism 7 is provided between the drive motor 1 and the multiple valve cores 3. Each valve core 3 cooperates with the transmission mechanism 7 through a one-way bearing 8. Each valve core 3 corresponds to a micro switch 4 and a trigger structure 5. The one-way bearing 8 is a type of bearing that can rotate freely in one direction and is locked in another direction. For each valve core 3, if the drive motor 1 rotates in a third direction, it can drive the corresponding valve core 3 to rotate through the one-way bearing 8. However, when the drive motor 1 rotates in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction, it cannot drive the corresponding valve core 3 to rotate through the one-way bearing 8. At this time, the drive motor 1 is in an idle state.

[0086] The multi-way valve 100 has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the drive motor 1 rotates forward to drive the first valve core 33 to rotate, while the second valve core 34 does not rotate. In the second state, the drive motor 1 rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core 34 to rotate, while the first valve core 33 does not rotate.

[0087] For example, such as Figure 9As shown, the transmission mechanism 7 includes a power input component 71 and multiple power output components 72 spaced apart. The power input component 71 cooperates with the drive motor 1 to be driven to rotate by the drive motor 1. The power of the drive motor 1 can be transmitted to the multiple power output components 72 via the power input component 71. The power of the drive motor 1 can be transmitted to the multiple power output components 72 via one power input component 71. Each power output component 72 cooperates with a valve core 3 through a one-way bearing 8, so that the power output component 72 can realize the rotation or non-rotation of the valve core 3 through the one-way bearing 8. In the first state, the power output component 72 corresponding to the first valve core 33 can drive the first valve core 33 to rotate through the one-way bearing 8, while the power output component 72 corresponding to the second valve core 34 cannot drive the second valve core 34 through the one-way bearing 8, so that the power output component 72 corresponding to the second valve core 34 is in an idle state; similarly, in the second state, the power output component 72 corresponding to the second valve core 34 can drive the second valve core 34 to rotate through the one-way bearing 8, while the power output component 72 corresponding to the first valve core 32 cannot drive the first valve core 33 to rotate through the one-way bearing 8, so that the power output component 72 corresponding to the first valve core 33 is in an idle state.

[0088] It should be noted that the terms "forward rotation" and "reverse rotation" described in this application are relative concepts, indicating only that the two rotation directions are opposite, and do not imply rotation in a specific direction. Furthermore, the rotation axis L of the first valve core 33 and the rotation axis L of the second valve core 34 can be parallel or form a non-zero angle; if the rotation axis L of the first valve core 33 and the rotation axis L of the second valve core 34 are parallel, the rotation direction of the first valve core 33 when the drive motor 1 rotates forward can be the same as or opposite to the rotation direction of the second valve core 34 when the drive motor 1 rotates in reverse.

[0089] As can be seen, by rotating the drive motor 1 forward or backward, the rotation direction of the drive motor 1 can be changed, thereby enabling the rotation of different valve cores 3 and changing the state of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 to switch the connection state of the corresponding valve structure. In other words, if it is necessary to switch the connection state of the first valve core 33, it is only necessary to rotate the drive motor 1 forward, and the above process will not affect the connection state of the second valve core 34. Similarly, if it is necessary to switch the connection state of the second valve core 34, it is only necessary to rotate the drive motor 1 backward, and this process will not affect the connection state of the first valve core 33. Thus, the switching of the connection states of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 is completely isolated, that is, their use and control methods do not affect each other.

[0090] According to the multi-way valve 100 of the present invention, multiple valve cores 3 can share a drive motor 1, which helps to save the number of drive motors 1 and, to a certain extent, reduces the number of components in the transmission mechanism 7 and the number of control boards. For example, the transmission mechanism 7 includes a gear transmission mechanism, which can reduce the number of gears. In some examples, the multi-way valve 100 includes a valve body part and an actuator part. The above arrangement helps to reduce the number of actuators in the multi-way valve 100, simplifies the structure of the multi-way valve 100, reduces the space occupied by the multi-way valve 100, and facilitates the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve 100. Moreover, the control of the drive motor 1 can also be simplified, which helps to reduce the control and use cost of the multi-way valve 100. At the same time, under the premise that multiple valve cores 3 share a drive motor 1, multiple valve cores 3 can be driven and used independently, which can improve the flexibility of the multi-way valve 100 and make it suitable for a variety of application scenarios, especially for complex thermal management systems 200.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 each have a specific rotation direction. Both the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 can rotate a full circle, so both the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 can rotate 360°. The valve core 3 has the ability to pass through any angle position within the range of 0° to 360°. The rotation angle of the valve core 3 can be controlled by the drive motor 1 so that the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 can each rotate to the angle position of each connected state of the corresponding valve structure, so as to realize the smooth switching of each valve structure between all connected states.

[0092] For example, the valve housing 2 includes a plurality of mounting cavities 20, each mounting cavity 20 corresponding to a valve core 3. Each mounting cavity 20 includes a first cavity 20c, a second cavity 20d, and a second chamber 20b arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core 3. The core portion 32 of the first valve core 33 is disposed in the corresponding second chamber 20b, and the shaft portion 31 of the first valve core 33 extends axially from the second chamber 20b to the corresponding first cavity 20c. The core portion 32 of the second valve core 34 is disposed in the corresponding second chamber 20b, and the shaft portion 31 of the first valve core 34 extends axially from the second chamber 20b to the corresponding first cavity 20c. The micro switch 4 and trigger structure 5 corresponding to the first valve core 33 are located in their corresponding first cavity 20c, and the micro switch 4 and trigger structure 5 corresponding to the second valve core 34 are located in their corresponding first cavity 20c. As can be seen, by placing the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 in different mounting cavities 20, the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are less likely to interfere with each other when rotating. The microswitches 4 and trigger structures 5 corresponding to the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are also separated, so that the control of the rotation of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 can be more independent, so that the two microswitches 4 and trigger structures 5 are less likely to interfere with each other, which helps to improve the stability of the multi-way valve 1.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 9 As shown, the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are spaced apart along a second direction. A microswitch 4 is fixed to the valve housing 2. Two microswitches 4 corresponding to the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are respectively located on the side of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 opposite to each other in the second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core 3. For example, the microswitch 4 corresponding to the first valve core 33 is located on the side of the first valve core 33 opposite to the second valve core 34 in the second direction, and the microswitch 4 corresponding to the second valve core 34 is located on the side of the second valve core 34 opposite to the second valve core 34 in the second direction. The position of the multi-way valve 100 is located away from the first valve core 33, so as to make fuller use of the space in the second direction. This avoids increasing the size of the multi-way valve 100 in the first direction, making the structure of the multi-way valve 100 more compact and facilitating the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve 100. At the same time, the arrangement of the micro switch 4 can reduce the interference of the micro switch 4 to other components, so that the operator can also arrange other components (such as the transmission mechanism 7) between the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34, which is convenient for one drive motor 1 to drive multiple valve cores 3 to rotate.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figures 1-9As shown, the valve housing 2 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a third housing 23 arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core 3. A first cavity 20c is defined between the second housing 22 and the first housing 21. In a first direction, the size of the first housing 21 is smaller than the size of the second housing 22. The drive motor 1 crosses the first housing 21 along the first direction and is fixed to the second housing 22. The first direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core 3. The first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are spaced apart along a second direction. A microswitch 4 is disposed in the first cavity 20c. Two microswitches 4 corresponding to the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are respectively located on the side of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 opposite to each other in the second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core 3. Among them, the first direction, the second direction, and the axial direction of the valve core 3 are mutually perpendicular to each other.

[0095] As can be seen, the two microswitches 4 corresponding to the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 are respectively located on the side of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 that is opposite to the other in the second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the axis of the valve core 3. For example, the microswitch 4 corresponding to the first valve core 33 is located on the side of the first valve core 33 that is opposite to the second valve core 34 in the second direction, and the microswitch 4 corresponding to the second valve core 34 is located on the side of the second valve core 34 that is opposite to the first valve core 33 in the second direction. That is, the two microswitches 4 can be arranged at intervals along the second direction of the multi-way valve so as to make fuller use of the space of the multi-way valve 100 in the second direction and not easily increase the size of the multi-way valve 100 in the first direction. For example, the first housing 21 includes a first part 21a, a second part 21b and a third part 21c arranged sequentially along the second direction of the multi-way valve 100. One micro switch 4 is disposed in the first cavity 20c defined by the first part 21a and the second housing 22, and the other micro switch 4 is disposed in the first cavity 20c defined by the third part 21c and the second housing 22. The second part 21b is adapted to pass through the output shaft of the drive motor 1 so that the micro switch 4 does not easily affect the normal operation of the drive motor 1.

[0096] Furthermore, the drive motor 1 spans the first housing 21 along the first direction and is fixed to the second housing 22. Due to the arrangement of the micro switch 4, the size of the first housing 21 in the first direction is reduced, so that when the drive motor 1 is fixed to the second housing 22, the span of the drive motor 1 in the first direction will not be limited by the first housing 21, which is conducive to reducing the space occupied by the multi-way valve 100 in the first direction. As for the connection between the drive motor 1 and the second housing 22, the connection position on one side of the first housing 21 in the first direction is not too far from the connection position on the other side of the first housing 21, which is convenient for the installation of the drive motor 1.

[0097] For example, the second housing 22 is provided with a plurality of connecting portions 22a. The plurality of connecting portions 22a can be provided on both sides of the second housing 22 in the first direction. For example, the plurality of connecting portions 22a are arranged in an approximately triangular form. The drive motor 1 can be fixed to the second housing 22 through the connecting portions 22a. Since the first housing 21 is smaller in size in the first direction, the spacing between the connecting portions 22a on both sides in the first direction can also be reduced, which is conducive to reducing the space occupied by the multi-way valve 100 in the first direction and is beneficial to realizing the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve 100. When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are detachably connected, the first housing 21 can be removed through the empty space between the drive motor 1 and the second housing 22, thereby exposing the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5, which is convenient for maintenance of the micro switch 4 and the trigger structure 5.

[0098] According to a second aspect of the present invention, the control method of the multi-way valve 100 is the multi-way valve 100 of the first aspect of the present invention described above.

[0099] like Figure 11 As shown, the control method includes: each time the trigger structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4, the micro switch 4 feeds back a signal to the drive motor 1 to determine the rotation angle of the valve core 3 toward the target angular position based on the position of the micro switch 4. It can be seen that after the trigger structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4, the micro switch 4 can feed back a signal to the drive motor 1, so that the drive motor 1 can obtain the current angular position of the valve core 3, which facilitates determining the rotation angle of the valve core 3 toward the target position, thereby achieving precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3.

[0100] For example, microswitch 4 is located at the θx angle position of valve core 3. When triggering structure 5 triggers microswitch 4, it indicates that valve core 3 has rotated to the θx angle. The target angle of valve core 3 is the θy angle. When valve core 3 can rotate in both directions, if θy > θx, drive motor 1 can drive valve core 3 to rotate forward by the angle θy - θx or (θy - θx) + n * 360°, where n is a positive integer and n ≥ 1. If θx > θy, drive motor 1 can drive valve core 3 to rotate backward by the angle θx - θy. The angle of rotation is θy or (θx-θy)+n*360°, where n is a positive integer and n≥1; when the valve core 3 can only rotate in one direction, when θy>θx, the drive motor 1 can drive the valve core 3 to rotate θy-θx angle or (θy-θx)+n*360°, where n is a positive integer and n≥1; when θx>θy, the drive motor 1 can drive the valve core 3 to rotate 360°-(θx-θy) angle or (n+1)*360°-(θx-θy), where n is a positive integer and n≥1.

[0101] It can be understood that when there is only one valve core 3 in the multi-way valve 100, the valve core 3 of the multi-way valve 100 is the valve core 3 to be adjusted; while when there are multiple valve cores 3 in the multi-way valve 100, it is necessary to first determine which one or more of the multiple valve cores 3 is the valve core 3 to be adjusted, so that the valve core 3 to be adjusted can achieve the required corresponding adjustment.

[0102] For example, as shown in Table 1, taking a 1:1 transmission ratio between the drive motor 1 and the valve core 3, with the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 rotating in opposite directions, the multi-way valve 100 includes two valve cores 3, namely the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34. A transmission mechanism 7 is provided between the drive motor 1 and the two valve cores 3, and the two valve cores 3 cooperate with the transmission mechanism 7 through a one-way bearing 8. For example, the drive motor 1 rotates clockwise to drive the first valve core 33 to rotate, and the drive motor 1 rotates counterclockwise to drive the second valve core 34 to rotate. The initial zero positions of the drive motor 1, the first valve core 33, and the second valve core 34 correspond. If the first valve core 33 needs to rotate clockwise from the initial zero position to the β1 angle position, then the drive motor 1 rotates clockwise by β1 to drive the first valve core 33 to rotate clockwise by β1. Finally, the first valve core 33 reaches the target β1 angle position, while the second valve core 34 does not rotate and remains in the initial zero position; then, the second... When valve core 34 needs to rotate counterclockwise from its initial zero position to the β2 angle position, drive motor 1 rotates counterclockwise by β2 to drive the second valve core 34 to rotate counterclockwise by β2. Ultimately, the second valve core 34 reaches the target β2 angle position, while the first valve core 33 remains stationary at the β1 angle position. Next, the first valve core 33 needs to rotate from the β1 angle position to the β3 angle position. If β3 > β1, and their relative positions are in the same direction as the first valve core 33's rotation, drive motor 1 rotates clockwise (β3 - β1) to drive the first valve core 34 to rotate counterclockwise by β2. The valve core 33 rotates clockwise (β3-β1), eventually reaching the target angle position β3. If β3 < β1, the drive motor 1 rotates clockwise 360° - (β1-β3) to drive the first valve core 33 to rotate clockwise 360° - (β1-β3), eventually reaching the target angle position β3, while the second valve core 34 remains stationary at the β2 angle position. Next, the second valve core 34 needs to rotate from the β2 angle position to the β4 angle position. If β4 > β2, the two valve cores will rotate relative to each other. If the position is consistent with the rotation direction of the second valve core 34, then the drive motor 1 rotates counterclockwise (β4-β2) to drive the second valve core 34 to rotate counterclockwise (β4-β2), and finally the second valve core 34 reaches the target angle position β4. If β4 < β2, then the drive motor 1 rotates counterclockwise 360° - (β2-β4) to drive the second valve core 33 to rotate counterclockwise 360° - (β2-β4), and finally the second valve core 33 reaches the target angle position β4, while the first valve core 33 does not rotate and remains at the angle position β3.As can be seen, when it is necessary to switch the connection state of the first valve core 33, it is only necessary to turn the drive motor 1 clockwise, and the above process will not affect the connection state of the second valve core 34. Similarly, when it is necessary to switch the connection state of the second valve core 34, it is only necessary to turn the drive motor 1 counterclockwise, and this process will not affect the connection state of the first valve core 33. Thus, the switching of the connection states of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34 is completely isolated, that is, their use and control methods do not affect each other, which makes it easy to independently adjust the rotation angle of the first valve core 33 and the second valve core 34.

[0103] Table 1 Rotation control of the first and second valve cores

[0104]

[0105]

[0106] The following explanation uses the trigger structure 5 to trigger the micro switch 4 each time as the initial zero position of the valve core 3. The valve core 3 can only rotate in one direction. The control method of the multi-way valve 100 in this embodiment of the invention will be explained. After reading the following scheme, those skilled in the art will easily understand that the micro switch 4 is not the implementation scheme corresponding to the initial zero position of the valve core 3.

[0107] The valve core 3 of the multi-way valve 100 can have m connected states. Starting from an initial zero position of 0°, along the rotation direction of the valve core 3, the valve core 3 sequentially passes through the first connected state, the second connected state, ..., the mth connected state. The angle corresponding to each connected state increases, i.e., the angle θ1 of the valve core 3 in the first connected state < the angle θ2 of the valve core 3 in the second connected state ... < the angle θm of the valve core 3 in the mth connected state, where θ1, θ2, ..., θm are all known. The current angle and the target angle of the valve core 3 are the corresponding angles θm, θ1, θ2, ..., θm mentioned above.

[0108] For example, valve core 3 is currently at angle θx and needs to rotate to angle θy, where x < y. Since θy > θx, valve core 3 rotates in one direction. The position of angle θy relative to angle θx is consistent with the rotation direction of valve core 3, and valve core 3 rotates towards angle θy. At this time, valve core 3 can stop when it first passes angle θy, or it can stop when it passes angle θy for the pth time, where p ≥ 2 and is a positive integer. Where valve core 3 stops when it passes angle θy for the pth time, valve core 3 rotates more than one revolution during the entire process from angle θx to angle θy, and valve core 3 passes the initial zero position (p-1) times, which can realize the correction of the rotation angle of valve core 3, which is beneficial to improving the rotation accuracy of valve core 3. Where valve core 3 stops when it first passes angle θy, valve core 3 rotates less than one revolution during the entire process from angle θx to angle θy, and valve core 3 does not pass the initial zero position, the rotation amplitude of valve core 3 is small, which facilitates the rapid switching of valve core 3.

[0109] For example, if valve core 3 is currently at angle θy and needs to rotate to angle θx, where x < y, and since θx < θy, valve core 3 rotates in one direction. The position of angle θx relative to angle θy is not consistent with the rotation direction of valve core 3. Therefore, during the process of valve core 3 rotating from angle θy to angle θx, it will inevitably pass through the initial zero position to correct the rotation angle of valve core 3, which is beneficial to improving the rotation accuracy of valve core 3.

[0110] As can be seen, during the use of the multi-way valve 100, the valve core 3 will have its rotation angle corrected whenever it passes the initial zero position. This facilitates the "natural correction" of the valve core 3's rotation and does not affect the valve core 3's rotation to the target angle. Moreover, compared to the method of forcibly correcting the valve core's rotation angle after a period of use, the control logic of this embodiment is simpler. It only needs to compare the current angle of the valve core 3's rotation with the target angle each time. The previous rotation adjustment of the valve core 3 will not participate in the judgment logic of the next rotation adjustment of the valve core 3, making the adjustment processes of the valve core 3 two adjacent times independent. It can be understood that with the setting of the micro switch 4 in this embodiment, as long as the triggering structure 5 triggers the micro switch 4, the micro switch 4 can provide a feedback signal to obtain the angular position of the valve core 3, thereby facilitating the determination of the rotation angle of the valve core 3 toward the target angular position.

[0111] According to the control method of the multi-way valve 100 of the present invention, during the rotation of the valve core 3, each triggering of the micro switch 4 will reveal the current angular position of the valve core 3, so as to correct the rotation angle of the valve core 3 and achieve "natural correction" of the rotation of the valve core 3, which facilitates precise control of the rotation angle of the valve core 3. It can be understood that the above setting is particularly suitable for scenarios where the valve core 3 rotates unidirectionally relative to the valve body 2, but it can also be used for scenarios where the valve core 3 can rotate bidirectionally.

[0112] Optionally, if the target angle is equal to the current angle, the valve core 3 can remain stationary, or the valve core 3 can rotate at least one revolution.

[0113] In some embodiments, there are multiple microswitches 4 arranged at circumferential intervals, and at least two microswitches 4 are configured to output different signals when triggered.

[0114] The control method also includes: determining the rotation direction of the valve core 3 based on the sequential order of the output signals of at least two microswitches 4.

[0115] As can be seen, at least two microswitches 4 are configured to output different signals when triggered. When the triggering structure 5 passes through the two microswitches 4 in sequence, the drive motor 1 can receive different signals sequentially. Combined with the initial angular position of the valve core 3, during certain switching processes, the drive motor 1 can determine the rotation direction of the valve core 3 based on the order of the different signals. This facilitates determining whether the valve core 3 rotates in the preset rotation direction, reducing the possibility that the valve core 3's rotation direction differs from the preset rotation direction, and improving the stability of the valve core 3's operation. Moreover, different microswitches 4 can correspond to different angular positions. The above setting makes it easy to distinguish which microswitch 4 is triggered, so as to determine which microswitch 4 corresponds to the current angular position of the valve core 3, thereby determining the rotation angle of the valve core 3 and facilitating better control of the rotation angle of the valve core 20. Of course, three or more microswitches 4 can also be configured to output different signals when triggered to further improve detection accuracy.

[0116] In some embodiments, for the unidirectional rotation of valve core 3, the rotation of valve core 3 increases the corresponding angle. If the target angle of valve core 3 is greater than the current angle for consecutive z rotations, during the first (z-1) rotations of valve core 3, valve core 3 directly rotates to the target angle without triggering micro switch 4. During the z-th rotation of valve core 32, valve core 32 first triggers micro switch 4 (e.g., valve core 4 rotates one or more revolutions) before rotating to the target angle. It can be understood that the above settings can be applied to scenarios where there is one micro switch 4 and one trigger point 51, or to scenarios where there are multiple micro switches 4, and at least two micro switches 4 are configured to output different signals when triggered.

[0117] It is understandable that when a multi-way valve has v connected states, z ≤ v-1, where v and z are both positive integers ≥ 2. Taking v = 7 and z = 5 as an example, if the target angle is greater than the current angle for four consecutive adjustments, and the valve core 32 rotates directly to the target angle for these four consecutive adjustments without triggering the microswitch 4, then in the fifth adjustment where the target angle is still greater than the current angle, the valve core 32 will rotate a full circle to trigger the microswitch 4 at least once before rotating to the target angle. This allows the valve core 32 to be forced to pass through the initial zero position for angle correction after a certain number of adjustments, thus improving the problem of accumulated rotational error and enhancing angle accuracy.

[0118] In some embodiments, the control method further includes: if the multi-way valve 100 malfunctions, the valve core 3 rotates to first trigger the micro switch 4 to obtain the angular position of the valve core 3, and then rotates to the target angle; and / or, if the sum of the angles of q consecutive rotations of the valve core 3 reaches a preset angle and the q consecutive rotations of the valve core 3 do not trigger the micro switch 4, when the valve core 32 rotates for the (q+1)th time, the valve core 32 first triggers the micro switch 4 to obtain the angular position of the valve core 3, and then rotates to the target angle, where q ≥ 2 and is a positive integer. It can be understood that the above settings can be applied to scenarios where there is one micro switch 4 and one trigger point 51, or to scenarios where there are multiple micro switches 4, and at least two micro switches 4 are configured to output different signals when triggered.

[0119] For example, if the multi-way valve assembly 100 malfunctions (e.g., the multi-way valve assembly 100 loses power), causing the valve core 32 to be unable to find the position to trigger the micro switch 4, then the valve core 32 cannot determine its current angle. Therefore, when the valve core 32 is rotated for the first time after the malfunction and normal operation is restored, the valve core 32 first triggers the micro switch 4, and then rotates to the target angle with the setting position of the micro switch 4 as a reference. This is to improve the problem of the valve core 32 being difficult to adjust accurately after the malfunction. It can be understood that when the valve core 32 is restored to normal operation after the malfunction, the first rotation of the valve core 32 must trigger the micro switch 4. When the valve core 32 rotates subsequently, the current angle of the valve core 32 can be determined based on the first rotation. At this time, the rotation mode of the valve core 32 can be controlled according to the relative size of the target angle and the current angle.

[0120] For example, if the sum of the angles of the valve core 32 rotating q times consecutively reaches the preset angle, regardless of whether the valve core 32 triggers the micro switch 4 during the aforementioned q consecutive rotations, then the next time the valve core 32 rotates, regardless of the relationship between the target angle and the current angle, the valve core 32 will be forced to first trigger the micro switch 4 to modify the rotation angle before rotating to the target angle. Taking q=3 and the preset angle as an example, if the sum of the angles of the valve core 32 rotating 4 times consecutively reaches 360°, for example, if the valve core 32 rotates 60° in the first rotation, 120° in the second rotation, and 420° in the third rotation, then the fourth time the valve core 32 rotates, regardless of the relationship between the target angle and the current angle, the valve core 32 will first trigger the micro switch 4 before rotating to the target angle, in order to reduce the error accumulated from multiple rotations.

[0121] The thermal management system 200 according to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention includes the multi-way valve 100 according to the first aspect embodiment described above. Therefore, by employing the multi-way valve 100, the control accuracy and reliability of the thermal management system 200 are improved.

[0122] For example, the thermal management system 200 may include a compressor, at least one first heat exchanger, at least one second heat exchanger, and multiple external pipelines. These external pipelines are filled with a circulating heat exchange medium and connect the compressor, the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger. Each external pipeline is connected to a different valve port 2a on a multi-way valve 100 assembly. At least one valve port 2a serves as a medium inlet, and at least one valve port 2a serves as a medium outlet. By switching the connection state of the corresponding multi-way valve 100, the flow path of the medium can be switched, thereby facilitating the switching of the heat exchange mode of the thermal management system 200 to achieve temperature regulation at corresponding locations within the vehicle. The first heat exchanger can be used for heat exchange with the battery, and the second heat exchanger can be used for heat exchange with the vehicle compartment. Optionally, switching the connection state of the corresponding multi-way valve 100 can also achieve regulation of the medium's flow rate, flow rate, and the ratio between different flow paths.

[0123] The vehicle 300 according to a fourth aspect embodiment of the present invention includes a multi-way valve 100 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention or a thermal management system 200 according to the third aspect embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] It is worth noting that the specific type of vehicle 300 referred to in this application is not limited. For example, vehicle 300 can be a gasoline vehicle, a gas vehicle, or a new energy vehicle. New energy vehicles can be pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles, range-extended electric vehicles, solar electric vehicles, gas fuel vehicles (such as hydrogen engine vehicles), or biofuel vehicles (such as vehicles powered by ethanol, biodiesel, etc.).

[0125] According to the embodiments of the present invention, by employing the multi-way valve 100 assembly or the thermal management system 200 described above, the vehicle 300 can improve the control accuracy and reliability of its use.

[0126] Other configurations and operations of the vehicle 300 according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0127] Furthermore, it should be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. To avoid unnecessary repetition, this application will not describe the various possible combinations separately. In addition, various different embodiments of this application can also be arbitrarily combined, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this application, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this application.

[0128] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0129] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0130] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0131] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve, characterized in that, include: Drive motor; The valve housing has a plurality of spaced-apart valve ports and an internal mounting cavity. A valve core is disposed in the mounting cavity and has multiple sets of spaced flow channels. A drive motor is disposed in the valve housing and connected to the valve core to drive the valve core to rotate relative to the valve housing, so that the multi-way valve switches between multiple connected states. A microswitch and a triggering structure are provided. The microswitch communicates with the drive motor. One of the microswitch and the triggering structure is located on the valve body, and the other is located on the valve core. The triggering structure intermittently triggers the microswitch during the rotation of the valve core relative to the valve body to determine the rotation angle of the valve core.

2. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting cavity includes a first chamber and a second chamber arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core. The microswitch and the triggering structure are both located in the first chamber. The valve core includes a shaft portion and a core portion. The core portion is located in the second chamber and surrounds the outer periphery of the shaft portion. Multiple sets of flow channels are formed on the core portion. All valve ports are formed in the second chamber. The shaft portion is rotatably engaged with the valve housing, and the shaft portion extends axially from the second chamber to the first chamber. A sealing element is provided between the valve core and the valve housing to separate the first chamber and the second chamber.

3. The multi-way valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second chamber includes a first cavity and a second cavity arranged sequentially along the valve core axis. The second cavity is located between the second chamber and the first cavity. The microswitch and the triggering structure are both located in the first cavity. A transmission mechanism is provided between the drive motor and the valve core. The valve core cooperates with the transmission mechanism. At least a portion of the transmission mechanism is located in the second cavity. The shaft portion extends axially from the second cavity to the first cavity.

4. The multi-way valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve housing includes a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the valve core. The second housing defines a first cavity between itself and the first housing, and the second housing defines a second cavity between itself and the third housing. The third housing has a second chamber. In a first direction, the size of the first housing is smaller than the size of the second housing. The drive motor crosses the first housing along the first direction and is fixed to the second housing. The first direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core.

5. The multi-way valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The triggering structure is formed as a cam sleeved on the outside of the shaft body, and the micro switch is fixed on the valve housing and located on the outer periphery of the cam.

6. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the valve housing and the valve core has a mounting structure defining a mounting groove. The mounting groove has a first opening on one side of the valve core along its axial direction, a second opening on the side facing the trigger structure, and a clearance opening on the side away from the trigger structure. The first opening is configured to allow the microswitch to pass through and engage in the mounting groove. The actuator of the microswitch extends out of the second opening, and the terminals of the microswitch extend out of the clearance opening. A limiting hole is formed on the bottom wall of the mounting groove, and the micro switch has a limiting post, which is limited and fitted into the limiting hole; and / or, In the circumferential direction of the valve core, the size of the clearance port is smaller than the size of the micro switch, so that the micro switch stops at the clearance port.

7. The multi-way valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The triggering structure includes multiple trigger points spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core.

8. The multi-way valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, Multiple trigger points are configured to correspond one-to-one with multiple groups of flow channels, so that when each group of flow channels switches to communicate with the corresponding valve port, the corresponding trigger point triggers the micro switch.

9. The multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The valve core and the mounting cavity are multiple in number. Each valve core includes a first valve core and a second valve core. A transmission mechanism is provided between the drive motor and the multiple valve cores. Each valve core cooperates with the transmission mechanism via a one-way bearing. Each valve core corresponds to one microswitch and one triggering structure. The multi-way valve has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the drive motor rotates forward to drive the first valve core to rotate, while the second valve core does not rotate. In the second state, the drive motor rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core to rotate, while the first valve core does not rotate.

10. The multi-way valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first valve core and the second valve core are spaced apart along a second direction. The micro switch is fixed to the valve housing. The two micro switches corresponding to the first valve core and the second valve core are respectively located on the side of the first valve core and the second valve core that is opposite to the other in the second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve core.

11. A control method for a multi-way valve, characterized in that, The multi-way valve is the multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1-10. The control method includes: Each time the triggering structure triggers the micro switch, the micro switch sends a signal back to the drive motor to determine the rotation angle of the valve core toward the target angle position based on the location of the micro switch.

12. A thermal management system, characterized in that, Includes a multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1-10.

13. A vehicle, characterized in that, Includes the multi-way valve according to any one of claims 1-10 or the thermal management system according to claim 12.

Images