Multi-way valve assembly, thermal management system, and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of multi-way valve assembly, thermal management system and vehicle, multi-way valve assembly includes driver, transmission mechanism, multiple multi-way valves, transmission mechanism includes power input piece and power output piece, one-way bearing is equipped on power output piece, each multi-way valve includes valve shell and valve core, valve core has multiple switching flow channels, valve core is rotatably arranged in corresponding valve shell, to realize switching intercommunication of corresponding valve port by switching flow channel, valve core is connected with corresponding one-way bearing, multiple valve cores include first valve core and second valve core, multi-way valve assembly has first state and second state, in first state, driver positive rotation to drive first valve core rotation, second valve core does not rotate, in second state, driver reverses to drive second valve core rotation, first valve core does not rotate. Thus, the multi-way valve assembly of the embodiment of the present application, while realizing that multiple multi-way valves share same driver, multiple multi-way valves can also be independently driven, with good use flexibility, and it is convenient to realize miniaturization design, it is beneficial to reduce cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of multi-way valve technology, and in particular to a multi-way valve assembly, a thermal management system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] A multi-way valve typically consists of a valve body, a valve core, and an actuator. It is mainly used to control the connection status of different valve ports through the movement of the valve core, thereby realizing the control of multiple pipelines.

[0003] In some technologies, multiple multi-way valves are integrated. However, the integrated structure is still multiple multi-way valves controlled in a predetermined order and logic, which limits its use. In addition, the integrated structure is costly and occupies a large space. Utility Model Content

[0004] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a multi-way valve assembly that allows multiple multi-way valves to share the same actuator while also enabling independent actuation of multiple multi-way valves. This provides good flexibility in use, facilitates miniaturization, and helps reduce costs.

[0005] This utility model also proposes a thermal management system having the above-mentioned multi-way valve assembly.

[0006] This utility model also proposes a vehicle having the above-mentioned multi-way valve assembly or the above-mentioned thermal management system.

[0007] A multi-way valve assembly according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a driver; a transmission mechanism, the transmission mechanism being driven by the driver and including a power input component and a plurality of spaced-apart power output components, the power input component cooperating with the driver to be driven to rotate by the driver, the power output component being provided with a one-way bearing; a plurality of multi-way valves, each multi-way valve including a valve housing and a valve core, the valve core having a plurality of spaced-apart switching channels, the valve housing having a plurality of valve ports, the valve core being rotatably disposed on a corresponding valve housing to achieve switching communication of the corresponding valve ports through the switching channels, the valve core being connected to a corresponding one-way bearing, the plurality of valve cores including a first valve core and a second valve core, the multi-way valve assembly having a first state and a second state, in the first state, the driver rotating forward to drive the first valve core to rotate, the second valve core not rotating, in the second state, the driver rotating in reverse to drive the second valve core to rotate, the first valve core not rotating.

[0008] According to the multi-way valve assembly of this utility model embodiment, multiple multi-way valves can share an actuator, which helps to save the number of actuators, simplify the structure of the multi-way valve assembly, reduce the space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly, facilitate the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve assembly, and simplify the control of the actuator, thereby reducing the control and use cost of the multi-way valve assembly. At the same time, under the premise that multiple multi-way valves share an actuator, multiple multi-way valves can be used independently, which can improve the flexibility of use of multiple multi-way valves and make the multi-way valve assembly suitable for various application scenarios, especially for complex thermal management systems.

[0009] In some embodiments, a plurality of power output components are disposed on the outer periphery of the power input component, a plurality of multi-way valves are disposed on the same side of the transmission mechanism in the axial direction of the power input component, the driver and the multi-way valves are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the transmission mechanism in the axial direction of the power input component, and the valve port is formed on the peripheral wall of the valve housing or one axial end of the valve housing.

[0010] In some embodiments, the power input component is driven in conjunction with each of the power output components; or, at least one of the power output components is driven in conjunction with the power input component through other power output components.

[0011] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly further includes a housing disposed at one end of the valve shell in the axial direction of the valve core, the transmission mechanism being disposed within the housing, and the inner walls of the housing on both sides opposite to each other in the axial direction of the power input component having first annular ribs protruding from them, and the first annular ribs being abutted on both axial sides of the power input component; and / or, the inner walls of the housing on both sides opposite to each other in the axial direction of the power output component having second annular ribs protruding from them, and the second annular ribs being abutted on both axial sides of the power output component.

[0012] In some embodiments, a first mating portion is formed on each of the axial sides of the power input component, the first mating portion mating with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the first annular rib; and / or, a second mating portion is formed on each of the axial sides of the power output component, the second mating portion mating with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the corresponding second annular rib, and the portion of the valve core that mates with the one-way bearing passes through at least one second annular rib.

[0013] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first housing and a second housing disposed opposite to each other along the axial direction of the power output member, the second housing having a first through hole through which the valve core passes, the valve housing including a first valve housing and a second valve housing disposed opposite to each other along the axial direction of the power output member, the first valve housing having a second through hole through which the valve core passes, and the end of the first valve housing away from the second through hole being open, the second valve housing covering the open end of the first valve housing, and the second housing and at least one of the first valve housings being integrally formed.

[0014] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly further includes a housing disposed at one end of the valve housing in the axial direction of the valve core, the transmission mechanism being disposed within the housing, and the multi-way valve assembly further includes: a first seal disposed between the power input member and the housing to separate the inside and outside of the housing; and / or a second seal disposed between the power output member and the housing or between the valve housing and the valve core to separate the internal space of the valve housing from other internal spaces of the valve housing.

[0015] In some embodiments, the valve core includes a shaft portion and a core portion. The shaft portion is connected to the one-way bearing. The core portion is arranged around the shaft portion to define the switching flow channel. The inner wall of the valve housing is provided with a third annular rib and a limiting protrusion. The third annular rib is arranged around the shaft portion and abuts against one axial end of the core portion. A third mating portion on the core portion is engaged with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the third annular rib. A stepped portion is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the limiting protrusion. The end of the shaft portion away from the one-way bearing is sleeved outside the limiting protrusion and abuts against the stepped portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly is configured such that the first valve core and the second valve core can be positioned at any position within their rotation range, the power input is a gear shaft, and each of the power outputs directly meshes with the power input.

[0017] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly further includes: an angle sensor disposed on the actuator and used to acquire rotation angle information of the actuator; and / or a trigger structure disposed between the valve core and the valve housing or on the power output member and used to determine the initial zero position of the rotation angle of the valve core.

[0018] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly includes a triggering structure comprising a mating protrusion and an elastic element adapted to abut against the mating protrusion to apply an elastic force to the mating protrusion that prevents it from rotating relative to the elastic element.

[0019] In some embodiments, the triggering structure further includes a mounting base, the mounting base including a first mounting block, a second mounting block and a third mounting block, the first mounting block and the second mounting block being spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core, the third mounting block including a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion, the first mounting portion being spaced between the first mounting block and the second mounting block, the second mounting portion being connected to the inner side of the first mounting portion in the radial direction of the valve core, and in the circumferential direction of the valve core, the width of the second mounting portion being greater than the distance between the first mounting block and the second mounting block, the elastic element being constructed as a spring sheet, the spring sheet being disposed around the outer peripheral side of the third mounting block and sandwiched between the first mounting block and the second mounting block, the portion of the spring sheet located on the side of the second mounting portion away from the first mounting portion protruding in a direction away from the first mounting portion, so as to be at least partially spaced apart from the third mounting block.

[0020] A thermal management system according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a multi-way valve assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention described above.

[0021] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the thermal management system, by adopting the above-mentioned multi-way valve assembly, achieves the integration of multiple multi-way valves while still maintaining the independent control of multiple multi-way valves. This is beneficial for saving space occupied by the thermal management system, facilitating miniaturization design, and reducing costs.

[0022] A vehicle according to a third aspect of the present invention includes a multi-way valve assembly according to the first aspect of the present invention or a thermal management system according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0023] The vehicle according to the present invention, by adopting the above-described multi-way valve assembly or the above-described thermal management system, facilitates the rational layout of various vehicle components.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of this 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

[0025] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this utility model will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a multi-way valve assembly according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial schematic diagram of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Another exploded view of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0030] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Another exploded view of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0031] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0032] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged view of part A, shown in the center circle;

[0033] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of section B shown in the center circle;

[0034] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of section C, shown in the center circle;

[0035] Figure 10 yes Figure 6 Another cross-sectional view of the multi-way valve assembly shown;

[0036] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 The exploded view of the valve core, mounting base, and elastic element shown in the figure;

[0037] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0038] Figure label:

[0039] Vehicle 300, Thermal Management System 200, Multi-way Valve Assembly 100

[0040] Driver 1, transmission mechanism 2, power input component 21, first mating part 21a, rotation axis 21b of power input component 21, power output component 22, second mating part 22a, rotation axis 22b of power output component, one-way bearing 23, multi-way valve 3, valve housing 31, valve port 310, third annular rib 31a, limiting protrusion 31b, receiving groove 31c, step part 31d, first valve housing 311, second through hole 311a, second valve housing 312, valve core 32, rotation axis L of valve core, switching flow channel 320, first valve core 32a, second valve core 3 2b. Shaft body 321, core body 322, third mating part 322a, housing 4, first housing 41, third through hole 41a, second housing 42, first through hole 42a, first annular rib 4a, second annular rib 4b, first seal 5, trigger structure 6, mating protrusion 61, elastic element 62, flange 621, mounting base 63, first mounting block 631, second mounting block 632, third mounting block 633, first mounting part 6331, second mounting part 6332, third seal 7, annular seal 71, fourth seal 8, bearing 9. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The embodiments of this utility model 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 this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0042] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the present 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 scope of 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. In addition, 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a multi-way valve assembly 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 includes an actuator 1 and a transmission mechanism 2. The transmission mechanism 2 is driven by the actuator 1, and the transmission mechanism 2 includes a power input component 21 and a plurality of spaced-apart power output components 22. The power input component 21 cooperates with the actuator 1 to be driven to rotate by the actuator 1. The power of the actuator 1 can be transmitted to the plurality of power output components 22 via the power input component 21. For example, the power of the actuator 1 can be transmitted to the plurality of power output components 22 via one power input component 21. For example, the actuator 1 includes a motor.

[0046] like Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes multiple multi-way valves 3. Each multi-way valve 3 includes a valve housing 31 and a valve core 32. The valve core 32 has multiple spaced switching channels 320. The valve housing 31 has multiple valve ports 310. The valve core 32 is rotatably disposed on the corresponding valve housing 31 so as to achieve switching connection of the corresponding valve ports 310 through the switching channels 320. It can be seen that by rotating the valve core 32, the multi-way valve 3 can have multiple connection states and can switch between multiple connection states to meet the medium flow direction requirements.

[0047] It is understandable that for a single multi-way valve 3, the multi-way valve 3 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. Multiple multi-way valves 3 can be of the same or different types, and therefore the number of valve ports 310 possessed by multiple multi-way valves 3 can be equal or unequal. For example, multiple multi-way valves 3 can all be six-way valves (e.g.,...). Figure 1 (As shown), or, one of the multi-way valves 3 is a six-way valve, and another multi-way valve 3 is an eight-way valve; the switching of the multi-way valve 3 between various connection states may include, but is not limited to, switching the connected valve ports 310, and / or, switching the number of connected valve ports 310. Taking three valve ports 310 as an example, the three valve ports 310 can be the first valve port, the second valve port, and the third valve port, respectively. The multi-way valve 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. Each of the first, second, and third valve ports is connected to each other; 5. Each of the first, second, and third valve ports is disconnected.

[0048] Each power output component 22 can cooperate with a corresponding valve core 32 to realize the rotation of the valve core 32. Then the driver 1 and the transmission mechanism 2 can serve as valve actuators for multiple multi-way valves 3. Multiple multi-way valves 3 can share the actuator, which helps to save the number of actuators, simplify the structure of the multi-way valve assembly 100, reduce the space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly 100, facilitate the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve assembly 100, and simplify the control of the actuator, which helps to reduce the control and use cost of the multi-way valve assembly 100.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the power output component 22 is equipped with a one-way bearing 23, and the valve core 32 is connected to the corresponding one-way bearing 23. The one-way bearing 23 is a type of bearing that can rotate freely in one direction and is locked in another direction. For each valve core 32, if the power output component 22 rotates in the first direction, it can drive the corresponding valve core 32 to rotate through the one-way bearing 23. However, when the power output component 22 rotates in the second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, it cannot drive the corresponding valve core 32 to rotate through the one-way bearing 23. At this time, the power output component 22 is in an idle state.

[0050] The multi-way valve assembly 100 includes a first valve core 32a and a second valve core 32b, and has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the actuator 1 rotates forward to drive the first valve core 32a to rotate, while the second valve core 32b does not rotate. In this state, the power output component 22 corresponding to the first valve core 32a can drive the first valve core 32a to rotate via the one-way bearing 23, while the power output component 22 corresponding to the second valve core 32b cannot drive the second valve core 32b to rotate via the one-way bearing 23, resulting in the power output component 22 corresponding to the second valve core 32b being in an idle state. In the second state, the actuator 1 rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core 32b to rotate, while the first valve core 32a does not rotate. In this state, the power output component 22 corresponding to the second valve core 32b can drive the second valve core 32b to rotate via the one-way bearing 23, while the power output component 22 corresponding to the first valve core 32a cannot drive the first valve core 32a to rotate via the one-way bearing 23, resulting in the power output component 22 corresponding to the first valve core 32a being in an idle state. Clearly, the first valve core 32a is driven by the driver 1 to rotate in one direction, and the second valve core 32b is driven by the driver 1 to rotate in one direction.

[0051] It is understood that there is at least one first valve core 32a and at least one second valve core 32b. 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 mean that they rotate in a specific direction. In addition, the rotation axis L of the first valve core 32a and the rotation axis L of the second valve core 32b can be parallel or at a non-zero angle. If the rotation axis L of the first valve core 32a and the rotation axis L of the second valve core 32b are parallel, the rotation direction of the first valve core 32a when the actuator 1 rotates forward can be the same as or opposite to the rotation direction of the second valve core 32b when the actuator 1 rotates in reverse.

[0052] As can be seen, by rotating the actuator 1 forward or backward, the rotation direction of the actuator 1 can be changed, thereby enabling the rotation of different valve cores 32 and changing the state of the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b, thus switching the connection state of the corresponding multi-way valve 3. In other words, if it is necessary to switch the connection state of the first valve core 32a corresponding to the multi-way valve 3, simply rotate the actuator 1 forward, and the above process will not affect the connection state of the second valve core 32b corresponding to the multi-way valve 3. Similarly, if it is necessary to switch the connection state of the second valve core 32b corresponding to the multi-way valve 3, simply rotate the actuator 1 backward, and this process will not affect the connection state of the first valve core 32a corresponding to the multi-way valve 3. Thus, the switching of the connection state of the first valve core 32a corresponding to the multi-way valve 3 and the second valve core 32b corresponding to the multi-way valve 3 is completely isolated, meaning that their use and control methods do not affect each other.

[0053] Therefore, compared to some technologies where multiple multi-way valves share an actuator, causing interference between their control, requiring simultaneous or sequential control, the use and control methods of multiple multi-way valves cannot be completely isolated, and independent adjustment of multiple valves at any position is not possible. For example, if a multi-way valve is adjusted to a preset position, adjusting other multi-way valves requires that valve to change accordingly, resulting in interference and limited adjustment, complex control logic, and high cost. Furthermore, multiple multi-way valves cannot be used completely independently, and independent control functionality is insufficient. In this embodiment, with multiple multi-way valves 3 sharing an actuator, independent driving and use of multiple multi-way valves 3 can be achieved, improving the flexibility of their use. This makes the multi-way valve assembly 100 suitable for various application scenarios, especially complex thermal management systems, thereby enhancing its applicability and practicality.

[0054] Furthermore, the one-way bearing 23 helps to improve the high requirements placed on the transmission mechanism 2 due to the independent rotation of the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b. The transmission mechanism 2 can be designed without having to consider the above requirements, and can focus more on its transmission stability and reliability, and is less affected by the above requirements. This helps to simplify the structure of the transmission mechanism 2 and also helps to simplify the assembly of the transmission mechanism 2 and the valve core 32.

[0055] According to the multi-way valve assembly 100 of this utility model embodiment, multiple multi-way valves 3 can share an actuator, which helps to save the number of actuators, simplify the structure of the multi-way valve assembly 100, reduce the space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly 100, facilitate the miniaturization design of the multi-way valve assembly 100, and simplify the control of the actuator, thereby reducing the control and usage costs of the multi-way valve assembly 100. At the same time, under the premise that multiple multi-way valves 3 share an actuator, multiple multi-way valves 3 can be driven and used independently, which can improve the flexibility of use of multiple multi-way valves 3 and make the multi-way valve assembly 100 suitable for various application scenarios, especially for complex thermal management systems.

[0056] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b each have a specific rotation direction. Both the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can rotate a full circle, so both the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can rotate 360°. The valve core 32 has the ability to pass through any angle position within the range of 0° to 360°. The rotation angle of the valve core 32 can be controlled by the driver 1 so that the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can each rotate to the angle position corresponding to each connected state of the multi-way valve 3, so as to realize the smooth switching of the multi-way valve 3 between all connected states.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, multiple power output components 22 are disposed on the outer periphery of the power input component 21. For example, the multiple power output components 22 can be arranged at intervals along the circumference of the power input component 21 so that each power output component 22 directly or indirectly cooperates with the power input component 21. In this case, the positions of the multiple power output components 22 relative to the power input component 21 in the axial direction can be consistent or inconsistent. Therefore, in the axial direction of the power input component 21, the distances between the multiple power output components 22 and the power input component 21 are equal or unequal. Multiple multi-way valves 3 are disposed on the same side of the transmission mechanism 2 in the axial direction of the power input component 21, which facilitates the arrangement of the multiple power output components 22 and helps to save the space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly 100. It can be understood that the axial direction of the power output component 22 is the extension direction of its rotation axis 22b.

[0058] In this configuration, the actuator 1 and the multi-way valve 3 are respectively located on opposite sides of the transmission mechanism 2 along the axial direction of the power input component 21. The valve port 310 is formed on the peripheral wall of the valve housing 31. Therefore, when the multi-way valve assembly 100 is in use, components connected to the valve port 310, such as pipes, are located on the outer periphery of the valve housing 31. The space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly 100 along the axial direction of the power output component 22 is not excessive, and components connected to the valve port 310 are less likely to interfere with the actuator 1. Alternatively, the valve port 310 can also be formed at one axial end of the valve housing 31. In this case, the valve port 310 can be formed at the end of the valve housing 31 away from the actuator 1, and components connected to the valve port 310 are also less likely to interfere with the actuator 1.

[0059] For example, the axial direction of the plurality of power output components 22 is aligned with the axial direction of the power input component 21, and the included angle between each pair of the rotation axes 22b of the plurality of power output components 22 is 0°; of course, in other embodiments of this application, the axial direction of at least one power output component 22 is at a non-zero angle with the axial direction of the power input component 21, and the plurality of multi-way valves 3 may also be located on opposite sides of the transmission mechanism 2 in the axial direction of the power output component 22; or, the rotation axes 22b of the plurality of power output components 22 may also be arranged non-parallel.

[0060] It is understood that the multi-way valve 3 in this embodiment can be a column valve structure, a disc valve structure, or a ball valve structure, etc., and the structures of multiple multi-way valves 3 can be the same or different. For example, the valve housing 31 can define a cylindrical structure, and the valve port 310 is formed on the peripheral wall of the valve housing 31, in which case the multi-way valve 3 can be a column valve structure; the valve housing 31 can define a spherical structure, and the valve port 310 is formed on the peripheral wall of the valve housing 31, in which case the multi-way valve 3 can be a ball valve structure; the valve housing 31 can define a cylindrical structure, and the valve port 310 is formed on one axial end face of the valve housing 31, in which case the multi-way valve 3 can be a disc valve structure. It should be noted that the axial direction of the valve housing 31 is parallel to the axial direction of the valve core 32.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the power input component 21 is driven to each power output component 22, and the power from the power input component 21 is transmitted to each power output component 22 to drive the corresponding valve core 32 to rotate. In some embodiments, at least one power output component 22 is driven to the power input component 21 through other power output components 22.

[0062] As can be seen, regardless of whether the driver 1 rotates forward or backward, the above configuration allows the power of the driver 1 to be transmitted to each power output component 22, causing each power output component 22 to rotate. Due to the one-way bearing 23, at least one of the multiple power output components 22 can drive the corresponding valve core 32 to rotate, while the remaining power output components 22 rotate idling.

[0063] For example, there are two power output components 22. One power output component 22 is in transmission cooperation with the power input component 21, and the other power output component 22 is in transmission cooperation with the power input component 21 through the aforementioned power output component 22.

[0064] It is understood that the power output component 22 can also be three or more. It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the method of "transmission engagement" is not specifically limited, and may include at least one of gear drive, chain drive, belt drive, coupling drive, worm gear drive, screw drive, etc.

[0065] For example, taking gear transmission as the transmission engagement and the two power output components 22 as the first output component and the second output component respectively: the first output component directly meshes with the power input component 21, or the first output component indirectly meshes with the power input component 21 through at least one gear other than the second output component; the second output component directly meshes with the power input component 21, or the second output component indirectly meshes with the power input component 21 through at least one gear other than the first output component; or, the first output component directly meshes with the power input component 21, or the first output component indirectly meshes with the power input component 21 through at least one gear other than the second output component, while the second output component indirectly meshes with the power input component 21 through the first output component.

[0066] Combination Figure 2 The power input component 21 is a gear shaft. The rotation axis L of the first valve core 32a and the rotation axis L of the second valve core 32b are parallel. The first output component directly meshes with the power input component 21, and the second output component directly meshes with the power input component 21. The first output component is connected to the first valve core 32a through a one-way bearing 23, and the second output component is connected to the second valve core 32b through a one-way bearing 23. Looking from the side where the driver 1 is located toward the transmission mechanism 2, if the driver 1 rotates clockwise, the power input component 21 rotates clockwise, and both the first and second output components rotate counterclockwise. The one-way bearing 23 corresponding to the first valve core 32a and the one-way bearing corresponding to the second valve core 32b rotate in opposite directions. The second valve core 32b rotates counterclockwise (the second valve core 32b rotates along...). Figure 2 If the drive 1 rotates counterclockwise, the power input component 21 rotates counterclockwise, and both the first and second output components rotate clockwise. At this time, the second valve core 32b does not rotate, and the first valve core 32a rotates clockwise (the first valve core 32a rotates clockwise along the direction of F2). Figure 2 (Center direction F1 rotation).

[0067] Of course, there are other examples, which differ from the examples above in that the first output component directly meshes with the power input component 21, and the second output component indirectly meshes with the power input component 21 through the first output component. Looking from the side where the driver 1 is located toward the transmission mechanism 2, if the driver 1 rotates clockwise, the power input component 21 rotates clockwise, the first output component rotates counterclockwise, and the second output component rotates clockwise. The rotation directions of the one-way bearing 23 corresponding to the first valve core 32a and the one-way bearing corresponding to the second valve core 32b are opposite. The first valve core 32a rotates counterclockwise, and the second valve core 32b does not rotate. If the driver 1 rotates counterclockwise, the power input component 21 rotates counterclockwise, the first output component rotates clockwise, and the second output component rotates counterclockwise. At this time, the first valve core 32a does not rotate, and the second valve core 32b rotates counterclockwise.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as Figures 3-6 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a housing 4, which is located at one end of the valve housing 31 along the axial direction of the valve core 32. The transmission mechanism 2 is located inside the housing 4, thus the housing 4 can provide some protection for the transmission mechanism 2. The axial direction of the valve core 32 is the extension direction of the rotation axis L of the valve core 32. The rotation axes L of multiple valve cores 32 can be arranged in parallel, or the rotation axes L of multiple valve cores 32 can be arranged at a small included angle (e.g., not exceeding 10°). Exemplarily, the actuator 1 can be located outside the housing 4 and fixedly connected to the housing 4; of course, the actuator 1 can also be located inside the housing 4.

[0069] Among them, combined Figure 7 and Figure 8 The housing 4 has two inner walls on opposite sides of the power input component 21, each with a first annular rib 4a protruding from it. The power input component 21 has these first annular ribs 4a abutting against it on both sides. These first annular ribs 4a can axially limit the power input component 21. Simultaneously, since the power input component 21 rotates relative to the housing 4, the contact area between the housing 4 and the power input component 21 is reduced, which helps reduce the rotational resistance of the power input component 21 and thus reduces energy loss and improves mechanical efficiency to a certain extent. Alternatively, the housing 4 has two inner walls on opposite sides of the power output component 22, each with a second annular rib 4b protruding from it. The power output component 22 has these second annular ribs 4b abutting against it on both sides. These second annular ribs 4b can axially limit the power output component 22. Simultaneously, since the power output component 22 rotates relative to the housing 4, the contact area between the housing 4 and the power output component 22 is reduced, which helps reduce the rotational resistance of the power output component 22 and thus reduces energy loss and improves mechanical efficiency to a certain extent. It can be understood that the axial direction of the power input component 21 is the extension direction of the rotation axis 21b of the power input component 21.

[0070] As can be seen, when the inner wall of the housing 4 is provided with a first annular rib 4a, the first annular rib 4a can be arranged around the rotation axis 21b of the power input component 21 so that the power input component 21 can be rotatably installed in the housing 4; when the inner wall of the housing 4 is provided with a second annular rib 4b, the second annular rib 4b can be arranged around the rotation axis 22b of the power output component 22 so that the power output component 22 can be rotatably installed in the housing 4.

[0071] For example, such as Figures 6-8 As shown, the axial direction of the power input component 21 is parallel to the axial direction of the power output component 22. Each of the inner walls on both sides of the housing 4 that are axially opposite to each other on the power input component 21 is provided with a first annular rib 4a and a plurality of second annular ribs 4b.

[0072] The “first annular rib 4a” and “second annular rib 4b” described in this application can be formed as an open annular rib or a closed annular rib that extends continuously in the circumferential direction; or they can be formed as an open annular rib or a closed annular rib that extends discontinuously (i.e., non-continuously) in the circumferential direction. In this case, the annular rib may include multiple rib segments spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and each rib segment extends continuously in the circumferential direction.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figures 6-8 As shown, the power input component 21 has first mating portions 21a formed on both axial sides. The first mating portions 21a engage with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the first annular rib 4a to limit the power input component 21 radially, facilitating stable rotation of the power input component 21 and simplifying the assembly of the power input component 21 with the housing 4; and / or, the power output component 22 has second mating portions 22a formed on both axial sides. The second mating portions 22a engage with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the corresponding second annular rib 4b to achieve... The radial limit of the power output component 22 facilitates stable rotation of the power output component 22 and simplifies the assembly of the power output component 22 with the housing 4. The part of the valve core 32 that mates with the one-way bearing 23 passes through at least one second annular rib 4b, which helps to ensure a suitable mating length between the valve core 32 and the one-way bearing 23. At the same time, it can also appropriately shorten the axial length of the part of the power output component 22 located inside the second annular rib 4b, which helps to save the space occupied by the multi-way valve assembly 100 in the axial direction of the power output component 22.

[0074] For example, when the power input component 21 has a first mating portion 21a formed on both axial sides, the first mating portion 21a can be formed as an annular groove, and the first annular rib 4a fits into the annular groove. The inner and outer peripheral walls of the first annular rib 4a respectively fit into the corresponding groove walls of the annular groove. While achieving axial and radial limiting, this can increase the bending complexity of the gap between the power input component 21 and the housing 4, which is beneficial to improving the sealing performance between the power input component 21 and the housing 4. Alternatively, the first mating portion 21a can be formed as a protrusion, which fits into the inner or outer peripheral wall of the first annular rib 4a. Similarly, when the power output component 22 has a second mating portion 22a formed on both axial sides, the second mating portion 22a can also be formed as an annular groove or a protrusion, which will not be described in detail here.

[0075] Of course, in other embodiments of this application, the axial and radial limiting of the power input component 21 or the power output component 22 can be achieved by different structures.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the housing 4 includes a first housing 41 and a second housing 42 arranged axially opposite to each other along the power output member 22, facilitating the assembly of the transmission mechanism 2 with the housing 4. The first housing 41 can be located on the side of the second housing 42 opposite to the valve housing 31. The second housing 42 has a first through hole 42a for the valve core 32 to pass through. The valve housing 31 includes a first valve housing 311 and a second valve housing 312 arranged axially opposite to each other along the power output member 22. The first valve housing 311 has a second through hole 311a for the valve core 32 to pass through, and the end of the first valve housing 311 away from the second through hole 311a is open. The second valve housing 312 covers the open end of the first valve housing 311, facilitating the insertion of the valve core 32 into the first valve housing 311 from the open end. It can be seen that the arrangement of the first through hole 42a and the second through hole 311a facilitates the valve core 32 to extend from the valve housing 31 and into the housing 4 to cooperate with the one-way bearing 23.

[0077] The second housing 42 and at least one first valve housing 311 are integrally formed, which facilitates the processing of the second housing 42 and the first valve housing 311, saves assembly steps between the second housing 42 and the first valve housing 311, and improves assembly efficiency. For example, the second housing 42 and all first valve ports 311 are integrally formed.

[0078] It is understood that in the above scheme, the multiple first valve bodies 311 can be connected to each other (e.g., connected by integral molding or by assembly) or spaced apart from each other. For example, as... Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the first valve housing 311 can define a cylindrical structure. A second through hole 311a is formed at one axial end of the first valve housing 311, and the other axial end is open, so that the first valve housing 311 can cover the valve core 32. Of course, multiple second valve housings 312 can be connected to each other (for example, by integral molding or by assembly) or spaced apart from each other.

[0079] Optionally, such as Figure 8 As shown, the first through hole 42a and the second through hole 311a are arranged opposite each other. A stepped structure is formed on the hole wall of the hole structure formed by the first through hole 42a and the second through hole 311a. The power output component 22 can stop against the stepped structure to improve its axial positioning stability and facilitate assembly. Furthermore, the inner peripheral wall of the second annular rib 4b located in the second housing 42 can participate in defining at least a portion of the hole wall of the first through hole 42a, and the inner peripheral wall of the third annular rib 31a can participate in defining at least a portion of the hole wall of the second through hole 311a. The distance between the second annular rib 4b and the third annular rib 31a located in the second housing 42 in the radial direction of the valve core 32 is relatively small, which makes it easier for the two to be arranged opposite each other in the axial direction of the valve core 32. This can improve the structural stability at the positions of the first through hole 42a and the second through hole 311a, and is beneficial to improving the reliability of the fit between the power output component 22 and the valve core 32.

[0080] Optionally, the first housing 41 and the second housing 42 are welded (e.g., laser welded) and sealed to reduce the probability of external leakage. In other embodiments of this application, the second housing 42 and the first valve housing 311 can also be separate components, connected by assembly means.

[0081] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 6 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a housing 4, which is located at one end of the valve housing 31 in the axial direction of the valve core 32, and the transmission mechanism 2 is located inside the housing 4. In this case, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a first seal 5, which is located between the power input component 21 and the housing 4 to separate the inside and outside of the housing 4. Even if the medium inside the multi-way valve 3 flows into the housing 4, the first seal 5 can reduce the probability of the medium flowing out of the housing 4, thus reducing the probability of medium leakage to the outside of the multi-way valve assembly 100. And / or, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a second seal, which is located between the power output component 22 and the housing 4 or between the valve housing 31 and the valve core 32, to separate the internal space of the valve housing 31 from the internal spaces of other valve housings 31. This helps to improve the isolation between the internal spaces of multiple valve housings 31, reduce the probability of cross-flow between the media inside multiple multi-way valves 3, reduce internal leakage, and improve the reliability of the multi-way valve assembly 100.

[0082] Optionally, such as Figure 7As shown, the first seal 5 is located inside the first annular rib 4a and abuts against the power input component 21. A third through hole 41a is formed on the housing 4 for the power input component 21 to extend from. A bearing 9 is provided at the third through hole 41a and is sleeved on the outside of the power input component 21. Of course, in other examples, the first seal 5 may also be located between the wall of the third through hole 41a and the power input component 21.

[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the second housing 42 and at least one first valve housing 311 are integrally formed. The second seal is disposed between the power output component 22 and the housing 4 to separate the internal space of the valve housing 31 from the internal space of the housing 4, thereby separating the internal space of the valve housing 31 from the internal space of other valve housings 31.

[0084] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a third seal 7, which is disposed between the valve housing 31 and the valve core 32. The third seal 7 forms a plurality of annular sealing portions 71, each annular sealing portion 71 surrounding the corresponding valve port 310, so as to play a sealing role between the valve core 32 and the valve housing 31, reducing the risk of fluid leakage or cross-flow between the valve core 32 and the valve housing 31.

[0085] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the annular sealing part 71 includes multiple annular sealing ribs arranged radially spaced along the corresponding valve ports 310. At least one annular sealing rib can be shared between two adjacent valve ports 310 to achieve reliable sealing while simplifying the structure of the third sealing element 7. Optionally, the surface of the third sealing element 7 facing the valve core 32 is provided with a wear-resistant coating. The wear-resistant coating is a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) coating, which has good self-lubricating properties and a low coefficient of friction. This helps to improve the friction and wear performance of the third sealing element 7, ensuring the sealing effect of the third sealing element 7 between the valve body 31 and the valve core 32, while reducing the resistance experienced by the valve core 32 during rotation, reducing the torque driving the valve core 32 to rotate, and reducing the load when the multi-way valve 3 switches between connected states.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 also includes a fourth seal 8, which is disposed on the side of the valve housing 31 radially away from the valve core 32. The fourth seal 8 is used to seal the valve port 310 with the external pipeline, thereby reducing the probability of leakage when fluid flows between the multi-way valve assembly 100 and the external pipeline, and improving the sealing performance between the external pipeline and the multi-way valve assembly 100. For example, a receiving groove 31c is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the valve housing 31, and the fourth seal 8 is disposed in the receiving groove 31c to limit the position of the fourth seal 8.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the valve core 32 includes a shaft portion 321 and a core portion 322. The shaft portion 321 is connected to a one-way bearing 23. The core portion 322 is arranged around the shaft portion 321 to define a switching flow channel 320. The switching flow channel 320 can be located between the shaft portion 321 and the core portion 322. The inner wall of the valve housing 31 is provided with a third annular rib 31a and a limiting protrusion 31b. The third annular rib 31a is arranged around the shaft portion 321, and the third annular rib 31a is arranged around the shaft portion 321. The three-ring rib 31a abuts against one axial end of the core portion 322. The third mating portion 322a on the core portion 322 fits against the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the third ring rib 31a. A step portion 31d is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the limiting protrusion 31b. The end of the shaft portion 321 away from the one-way bearing 23 is sleeved on the limiting protrusion 31b, and the end of the shaft portion 321 away from the one-way bearing 23 abuts against the step portion 31d.

[0088] As can be seen, one axial end of the valve core 32 facilitates the engagement of the third annular rib 31a with the core portion 322 and the third mating portion 322a, thereby limiting the valve core 32 in its axial and radial directions. The other axial end of the valve core 32 facilitates the engagement of the shaft portion 321 with the limiting protrusion 31b and the stepped portion 31d, thereby limiting the valve core 32 in its axial and radial directions. This ensures reliable installation of the valve core 32 and improves the smoothness of its rotation. Optionally, the third mating portion 322a can be formed as an annular groove or a protrusion.

[0089] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 is configured such that the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can be positioned at any position within their rotation range. For example, the rotation angle positions of the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can be continuously adjusted and locked in real time, which facilitates the diversification of the rotation angle positions of the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b, and helps to improve the adjustment accuracy of the multi-way valve assembly 100.

[0090] For example, the power input component 21 is a gear shaft, and each power output component 22 directly meshes with the power input component 21. This is beneficial for improving the transmission efficiency, transmission accuracy, and stability of the transmission mechanism 2, while also facilitating a compact design of the transmission mechanism 2 and saving space. Of course, the power output component 22 can also indirectly mesh with the power input component 21 through other gears.

[0091] It is understandable that if at least one of the multiple multi-way valves 3 corresponding to the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b has a proportional adjustment function, the first valve core 32a and the second valve core 32b can be positioned at any position within their rotation range, which is beneficial to achieving a wider range of proportional adjustments.

[0092] In some embodiments, the multi-way valve assembly 100 further includes an angle sensor disposed on the actuator 1, and the angle sensor is used to acquire the rotation angle information of the actuator 1. For example, the rotation angle information includes at least one of the following: the current angular position information of the actuator 1, the angle of rotation of the actuator 1 within a certain time period, and the rotation direction of the actuator 1, so as to indirectly control the rotation angle information of the corresponding valve core 32 by controlling the rotation angle information of the actuator 1, so as to facilitate the corresponding valve core 32 to rotate to a suitable angular position to complete the smooth switching of the corresponding multi-way valve 3 connection state; and / or, the multi-way valve assembly 100 further includes a trigger structure 6 disposed between the valve core 32 and the valve housing 31, and the trigger structure 6 is used to determine the initial zero position of the rotation angle of the valve core 32, and the angular position of the valve core 32 corresponding to the multiple connection states of the multi-way valve 3 is relative to the initial zero position.

[0093] It is understandable that when the multi-way valve assembly 100 includes an angle sensor and a trigger structure 6, the two can verify each other, which facilitates timely correction of the valve core 32 rotation information and helps to further improve the control accuracy of the valve core 32 rotation.

[0094] Of course, in other embodiments, the trigger structure 6 can also be located on the power output member 22. In this case, the trigger structure 6 can indirectly determine the initial zero position of the valve core 32 by determining the initial zero position of the rotation angle of the power output member 22. For example, the trigger structure 6 can be located between the power output member 22 and the housing 4 or between the power output member 22 and the valve housing 31.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the multi-way valve assembly 100 includes a trigger structure 6, which includes a mating protrusion 61 and an elastic element 62. The elastic element 62 is adapted to abut against the mating protrusion 61 to apply an elastic force to the mating protrusion 61 that hinders its rotation relative to the elastic element 62. This elastic force can hinder the rotation of the valve core 32, increase the rotational resistance of the valve core 32, thereby increasing the load on the actuator 1. The current of the actuator 1 will increase. At this time, the current change of the actuator 1 can be detected to know in time that the current angular position of the valve core 32 is the initial zero position.

[0096] For example, the triggering structure 6 can have a triggered state and a non-triggered state. In the triggered state, the elastic element 62 and the mating protrusion 61 abut against each other to identify the current angular position of the valve core 32 as the initial zero position. In the non-triggered state, the elastic element 62 and the mating protrusion 61 are separated, and the valve core 32 has not rotated to the initial zero position. It can be seen that the triggering structure 6 can realize the confirmation of the initial zero position mechanically, which is relatively stable and facilitates accurate judgment.

[0097] For example, such as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the trigger structure 6 is located between the valve core 32 and the valve housing 31, the mating protrusion 61 is formed on the valve housing 31, and the elastic element 62 is located on the valve core 32; in other examples, the mating protrusion 61 may also be formed on the valve core 32, and the elastic element 62 may be located on the valve housing 31.

[0098] The shape of the protrusion 61 is not specifically limited; Figure 8 and Figure 10 In the example, the third mating part 322a is mated to the inner peripheral wall of the third annular rib 31a, and the mating protrusion 61 is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the third annular rib 31a. The third mating part 322a will not interfere with the mating protrusion 61 and the elastic member 62. The mating protrusion 61 has a triangular cross-sectional shape, and the apex angle α of the triangle is an obtuse angle, so that when the elastic member 62 and the mating protrusion 61 abut against each other, they can resist the relative movement of the two, while the resistance is not too great, so that the two can continue to move relative to each other until they separate. Of course, the outer peripheral wall of the mating protrusion 61 can also be arc-shaped.

[0099] Of course, the structure of trigger structure 6 is not limited to this. For example, trigger structure 6 can also be a Hall sensor or a magnetoresistive sensor.

[0100] In some embodiments, such as Figure 11 As shown, the trigger structure 6 also includes a mounting base 63, which includes a first mounting block 631, a second mounting block 632, and a third mounting block 633. The first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632 are spaced apart along the circumference of the valve core 32. The third mounting block 633 includes a first mounting portion 6331 and a second mounting portion 6332. The first mounting portion 6331 is spaced between the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632. The second mounting portion 6332 is connected to the inner side of the first mounting portion 6331 in the radial direction of the valve core 32. In the circumferential direction of the valve core 32, the width of the second mounting portion 6332 is greater than the distance between the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632. Therefore, in the circumferential direction of the valve core 32, the width of the second mounting portion 6332 is greater than the width of the first mounting portion 6331, so that the third mounting portion 633 can be approximately T-shaped.

[0101] The elastic element 62 is provided on the mounting base 63. The elastic element 62 is constructed as a spring sheet. The spring sheet is disposed around the outer periphery of the third mounting block 633 and sandwiched between the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632. Thus, the spring sheet is wrapped around the outer periphery of the second mounting part 6332 and also around the outer periphery of the first mounting part 6331. The portion of the spring sheet wrapped around the first mounting part 6331 is located between the first mounting part 6331 and the first mounting block 631, and between the first mounting part 6331 and the second mounting block 632. Thus, the third mounting block 633 can be supported inside the spring sheet to improve the shape stability of the spring sheet. The first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632 are respectively located on opposite sides of the spring sheet in the circumferential direction of the valve core 32 to improve the positional stability of the spring sheet.

[0102] The portion of the spring piece located on the side of the second mounting portion 6332 opposite to the first mounting portion 6331 protrudes away from the first mounting portion 6331, and is at least partially spaced from the third mounting block 633. This creates a certain distance between the portion of the spring piece on the side of the second mounting portion 6332 opposite to the first mounting portion 6331 and the second mounting portion 6332, providing space for the deformation of the spring piece. Optionally, the portion of the spring piece on the side of the second mounting portion 6332 opposite to the first mounting portion 6331 can be formed into a convex arc shape.

[0103] Optionally, the spring can be formed as a closed ring or an open ring enclosing the third mounting block 633. It should be noted that, as used herein, "open ring" refers to a ring with an opening (i.e., a non-closed ring), where "ring" is interpreted broadly, meaning it is not limited to "circular ring," but can also be, for example, a "polygonal ring," etc.

[0104] Optionally, in Figure 10 and Figure 11 In the example, the elastic element 62 is formed as an open annular shape, and flanges 621 are respectively provided at both circumferential ends of the elastic element 62. The two flanges 621 extend in a direction away from each other and are respectively adapted to abut against the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632. Thus, by setting the flanges 621, both the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632 can further restrict the elastic element 62 from disengaging from the third mounting block 633, which is beneficial to further improve the installation reliability of the elastic element 62.

[0105] In other embodiments, the mounting base 63 includes a third mounting block 633 but excludes the first mounting block 631 and the second mounting block 632. The elastic element 62 is constructed as a spring sheet, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the third mounting block 633. In the radial direction of the valve core 32, the portion of the spring sheet on the side of the third mounting block 633 facing the trigger 61 protrudes, at least partially spaced from the third mounting block 633, so that a portion of the spring sheet is radially spaced from the third mounting block 633, with a certain gap between them to provide space for the deformation of the spring sheet. In this case, the spring sheet can completely cover the outer periphery of the third mounting block 633, or the spring sheet can cover a portion of the outer periphery of the third mounting block 633, thus forming a closed ring or an open ring, which facilitates the installation of the spring sheet and makes it less likely for the spring sheet to detach from the third mounting block 633 when subjected to circumferential force or circumferential reaction force applied by the trigger 61, thereby improving the reliability of the spring sheet installation.

[0106] For example, the trigger 61 is adapted to abut against the inner side of the spring in the radial direction of the valve core 32, and the portion of the spring located in the radial direction of the third mounting block 633 protrudes inward; of course, the trigger 61 may also be adapted to abut against the outer side of the spring in the radial direction of the valve core 32, and the portion of the spring located in the radial direction of the third mounting block 633 protrudes outward.

[0107] Furthermore, the third mounting block 633 includes a first mounting portion 6331 and a second mounting portion 6332, which are arranged sequentially along the radial direction of the valve core 32. In the circumferential direction of the valve core 32, the width of the second mounting portion 6332 is greater than the width of the first mounting portion 6331, so that the width of the portion of the elastic member 62 enclosing the second mounting portion 632 is greater than the width of the portion enclosing the first mounting portion 631. The first mounting portion 631 and the second mounting portion 632 can generally define a T-shape. It can be understood that when the trigger member 61 is adapted to abut against the inner side of the spring in the radial direction of the valve core 32, the second mounting portion 6332 is connected to the inner side of the first mounting portion 6331 in the radial direction of the valve core 32; and when the trigger member 61 is adapted to abut against the outer side of the spring in the radial direction of the valve core 32, the second mounting portion 6332 is connected to the outer side of the first mounting portion 6331 in the radial direction of the valve core 32. As can be seen, the portion of the spring piece located on the side of the second mounting portion 6332 away from the first mounting portion 6331 protrudes in a direction away from the second mounting portion 6332, so that a portion of the spring piece is spaced apart from the second mounting portion 6332. Obviously, the aforementioned protruding portion of the spring piece and the first mounting portion 6331 are located on opposite sides of the second mounting portion 6332. The portion of the second mounting portion 6332 that extends beyond the first mounting portion 6331 around the valve core 32 can play a good limiting role for the spring piece. Even if the spring piece is formed as an open annular shape, it is not easy for the spring piece to detach from the third mounting block 633, which helps to improve the reliability of the spring piece installation.

[0108] The thermal management system 200 according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes the multi-way valve assembly 100 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention described above. It is understood that the multi-way valve assembly 100 of the present application embodiments is particularly suitable for complex thermal management systems 200. Complex thermal management systems typically require a large number of multi-way valves, resulting in a larger space footprint. By employing the multi-way valve assembly 100 of the present application embodiments, the integration of multiple multi-way valves 3 while maintaining independent control of each multi-way valve 3 is achieved, which helps save space in the thermal management system 200, facilitates miniaturization design, and reduces costs.

[0109] 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. The external pipelines are filled with a circulating heat exchange medium, and the multiple external pipelines connect the compressor, the first heat exchanger, and the second heat exchanger. Simultaneously, the multiple external pipelines are respectively connected to different valve ports 310 on the multi-way valve assembly 100. At least one valve port 310 serves as a medium inlet, and at least one valve port 310 serves as a medium outlet. By switching the connection state of the corresponding multi-way valve 3, 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 in 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 3 can also achieve regulation of the medium's flow rate, flow rate, and the ratio between different flow paths.

[0110] The vehicle 300 according to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention includes the multi-way valve assembly 100 according to the first aspect embodiment of the present invention or the thermal management system 200 according to the second aspect embodiment of the present invention. 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 natural 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 (e.g., hydrogen engine vehicles), or biofuel vehicles (e.g., vehicles powered by ethanol, biodiesel, etc.).

[0111] The vehicle 300 according to this embodiment of the present invention, by employing the aforementioned multi-way valve assembly 100 or the aforementioned thermal management system 200, facilitates the rational layout of the various components of the vehicle 200. Other configurations and operations of the vehicle 300 according to this embodiment of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0112] According to the control method of the multi-way valve assembly 100 of the fourth aspect embodiment of the present invention, the multi-way valve assembly 100 is the same as the multi-way valve assembly 100 of the first aspect embodiment of the present invention, and the multi-way valve assembly 100 further includes a trigger structure 6. The trigger structure 6 is used to determine the initial zero position of the rotation angle of the valve core 32, and the trigger structure 6 cooperates with the driver 1 so that the driver 1 can be triggered by the trigger structure 6 to correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32 every time it passes the initial zero position. The control method of the multi-way valve assembly 100 includes: determining the current angle and the target angle of the valve core 32 of the multi-way valve to be adjusted based on the initial zero position of the valve core 32; if the target angle is greater than the current angle, the valve core 32 rotates toward the target angle; if the target angle is less than the current angle, the valve core 32 first passes through the initial zero position to correct the rotation angle, and then rotates to the target angle.

[0113] The trigger structure 6 does not restrict the rotation of the valve core 32 and thus reduce the rotation angle range of the valve core 32. At the same time, when the trigger structure 6 detects that the valve core 32 has passed the initial zero position, it triggers the actuator 1 to correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32. Thus, the actuator 1 can correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32 with the initial zero position as a reference, so that the rotation of the valve core 32 toward the target angle can be referenced with the initial zero position, which is beneficial to improving the accuracy of the rotation angle of the valve core 32.

[0114] For example, the trigger structure 6 is used to determine the 0° position of the valve core 32. In the multiple connected states of the multi-way valve 3, the multiple angular positions of the valve core 32 relative to the 0° position are known, and the transmission ratio between the driver 1 and the valve core 32 is also known. The cooperation between the trigger structure 6 and the driver 1 enables the driver 1 to correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32 every time the valve core 32 passes the 0° position. When the trigger structure 6 detects that the valve core 32 has passed the 0° position, the trigger structure 6 can trigger the driver 1 to correct the subsequent required rotation angle of the valve core 32. At this time, the driver 1 can correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32 based on the 0° position.

[0115] For example, taking the 0° position as a reference, in the first connected state, valve core 32 is at angle θ1; in the second connected state, valve core 32 is at angle θ2; ..., in the m-th connected state, valve core 32 is at angle θm. Along the rotation direction of valve core 32, the corresponding angle increases, θ1 < θ2 < ... < θm. The positions of these angles are known. If valve core 32 needs to rotate from angle θm through the 0° position to angle θ1, and if angle θm is used as a reference, valve core 32 needs to rotate 360° - (θm - θ1). If there is a large error in angle θm, the rotation of valve core 32 to the target position will also easily result in a large error. In this embodiment, if the valve core 32 needs to rotate from angle θm through position 0° to angle θ1, when it passes through position 0°, the triggering structure 6 triggers the driver 1 to inform the driver 1 that the valve core 32 has now rotated to position 0°. Then, the driver 1 uses position 0° as a reference to control the valve core 32 to continue rotating by angle θ1. Whether the rotation angle of the valve core 32 is accurate during the process from angle θm to position 0° will not affect the accuracy of the valve core 32 rotating to position θ1. In short, in this embodiment, the triggering structure 6 triggers the driver 1 to make corrections, which can be understood as triggering the driver 1 to correct the driving control reference.

[0116] It is understandable that there are multiple multi-way valves 3. It is necessary to first determine which one or more of these multi-way valves 3 is the one to be adjusted, so that the multi-way valve to be adjusted can achieve the required corresponding adjustment. For example, the multiple multi-way valves 3 include a first multi-way valve and a second multi-way valve. The valve core of the first multi-way valve is the first valve core 32a, and the valve core of the second multi-way valve is the second valve core 32b. If it is determined that the first multi-way valve is the one to be adjusted, and the second multi-way valve does not require adjustment, then the actuator 1 rotates forward to drive the first valve core 32a to rotate to the target angle. If it is determined that the second multi-way valve is the one to be adjusted, and the first multi-way valve does not require adjustment, then the actuator 1 rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core 32b to rotate to the target angle. If it is determined that both the first and second multi-way valves are the multi-way valves to be adjusted, then the adjustment sequence of the first and second multi-way valves can be determined according to the urgency of the adjustment, or the first and second multi-way valves can be adjusted in a fixed order.

[0117] The multi-way valve 3 has m connected states. Starting from an initial zero position of 0°, along the rotation direction of the valve core 32, the valve core 32 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 32 in the first connected state < the angle θ2 of the valve core 32 in the second connected state ... < the angle θm of the valve core 32 in the mth connected state, where θ1, θ2, ..., θm are all known. The current angle and the target angle of the valve core 32 are the corresponding angles θm, θ1, θ2, ..., θm mentioned above.

[0118] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, the multi-way valve 3 has seven connected states, corresponding one-to-one with the N1 to N7 markings on the valve core 32. The trigger structure 6 is located at 0°. Following the rotation direction F1 of the valve core 32 indicated by the arrow: when N7 is opposite the valve port 310, the multi-way valve 3 is in the first connected state, and the valve core 2 is at angle θ1; when N2 is opposite the valve port 310, the multi-way valve 3 is in the second connected state, and the valve core 2 is at angle θ2; when N4 is opposite the valve port 310, the multi-way valve 3 is in the third connected state, and the valve core 2 is at angle θ2. At angle θ3; when N3 is opposite to valve port 310, multi-way valve 3 is in the fourth connected state and valve core 2 is at angle θ4; when N1 is opposite to valve port 310, multi-way valve 3 is in the fifth connected state and valve core 2 is at angle θ5; when N5 is opposite to valve port 310, multi-way valve 3 is in the sixth connected state and valve core 2 is at angle θ6; when N6 is opposite to valve port 310, multi-way valve 3 is in the seventh connected state and valve core 2 is at angle θ7, θ1<θ2<θ3<θ4<θ5<θ6<θ7.

[0119] For example, valve core 32 is currently at angle θx and needs to rotate to angle θy, where x < y. Since θy > θx, valve core 32 rotates in one direction. The position of angle θy relative to angle θx is consistent with the rotation direction of valve core 32, and valve core 32 rotates towards angle θy. At this time, valve core 32 can stop when it first passes through angle θy, or it can stop when it passes through angle θy for the pth time, where p ≥ 2 and is a positive integer. Where valve core 32 stops when it passes through angle θy for the pth time, valve core 32 rotates from angle θx... During the entire process of moving to the θy angle, the valve core 32 rotates more than one revolution and passes through the initial zero position (p-1) times, which can correct the rotation angle of the valve core 32 and help improve the rotation accuracy of the valve core 32. The valve core 32 stops when it passes through the θy angle for the first time. During the entire process of the valve core 32 rotating from the θx angle to the θy angle, the valve core 32 rotates less than one revolution and does not pass through the initial zero position. The rotation amplitude of the valve core 32 is small, which facilitates the rapid switching of the valve core 32.

[0120] For example, if the valve core 32 is currently at angle θy and needs to rotate to angle θx, where x < y, and since θx < θy, the valve core 32 rotates in one direction. The position of angle θx relative to angle θy is not consistent with the rotation direction of valve core 32. Therefore, during the process of rotating from angle θy to angle θx, valve core 32 will inevitably pass through the initial zero position to correct the rotation angle of valve core 32, which is beneficial to improving the rotation accuracy of valve core 32.

[0121] As can be seen, during the use of the multi-way valve assembly 100, the valve core 32 will be corrected in rotation angle whenever it passes the initial zero position, which facilitates the "natural correction" of the valve core 32 rotation and will not affect the valve core 32 rotation to the target angle. Moreover, compared with the method of forcing the valve core to perform a rotation angle correction after the valve core has been used for a period of time, the control logic of this application embodiment is relatively simple. It only needs to compare the current angle and the target angle of the valve core 32 rotation each time. The previous rotation adjustment of the valve core 32 will not participate in the judgment logic of the next rotation adjustment of the valve core 32, so that the adjustment processes of the valve core 32 in two adjacent times have a certain degree of independence.

[0122] Alternatively, if the target angle is equal to the current angle, the valve core 32 may remain stationary, or the valve core 32 may rotate at least one revolution.

[0123] In some embodiments, if the target angle is greater than the current angle for n consecutive times, when the valve core 32 rotates for the first (n-1) times, the valve core 32 rotates directly to the target angle, and when the valve core 32 rotates for the nth time, the valve core 32 rotates a full circle before rotating to the target angle.

[0124] It can be understood that a multi-way valve has m connected states, where n ≤ m-1, and m and n are both positive integers ≥ 2. Taking m = 7 and n = 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 in these four consecutive adjustments without passing through the initial zero position, 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 pass through the initial zero position 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.

[0125] Optionally, the control method further includes: if the multi-way valve assembly 100 malfunctions, the valve core 32 rotates first through the initial zero position and then rotates to the target angle; and / or, if the sum of the angles of the valve core 32 rotating q times consecutively reaches a preset angle, when the valve core 32 rotates for the q+1th time, the valve core 32 first passes through the initial zero position to correct the rotation angle and then rotates to the target angle, where q ≥ 2 and is a positive integer.

[0126] For example, if the multi-way valve assembly 100 malfunctions (such as a power outage), causing the valve core 32 to be unable to find its initial zero position, then the valve core 32 cannot determine its current angle. Therefore, when the valve core 32 is first rotated for adjustment after the malfunction, it first passes through the initial zero position and then rotates to the target angle using the initial zero position as a reference. This improves 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, its first rotation must pass through the initial zero position. Subsequent rotations of the valve core 32 can then determine its current angle based on the initial rotation. At this point, the rotation method of the valve core 32 can be controlled based on the relative magnitude of the target angle and the current angle.

[0127] 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 passes through the initial zero position in the above q consecutive rotations, 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 pass through the initial zero position to correct 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 pass through the initial zero position before rotating to the target angle, in order to reduce the error accumulated from multiple rotations.

[0128] For example, the multi-way valve assembly 100 is configured such that: the triggering structure 6 includes a trigger element 61 and an elastic element 62; when the valve core 32 is in the initial zero position, the elastic element 62 and the trigger element 61 abut against each other to apply an elastic force to the valve core 32 that hinders its rotation; when the valve core 32 leaves the initial zero position, the elastic element 62 separates from the trigger element 61; the actuator 1 includes a driving body, a data acquisition structure, and a processing structure; the driving body is used to drive the valve core 32 to rotate; the data acquisition structure is used to acquire the current and / or voltage of the driving body; and the processing structure communicates with the data acquisition structure and is used to correct the control signal of the driving body based on whether pulse information exists in the data acquisition results. In this case, the control method includes: acquiring the current and / or voltage of the driving body; and correcting the control signal of the driving body based on whether pulse information exists in the data acquisition results.

[0129] 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.

[0130] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center," "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential," etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model 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 this utility model. Furthermore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0131] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" 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 utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0132] 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 present 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.

[0133] Although embodiments of the present 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 present invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A multi-way valve assembly, characterized in that, include: drive; A transmission mechanism is provided, which is in transmission cooperation with the driver and includes a power input component and a plurality of spaced power output components. The power input component is in cooperation with the driver to be driven to rotate by the driver, and the power output component is provided with a one-way bearing. Multiple multi-way valves are provided, each including a valve body and a valve core. The valve core has multiple spaced-apart switching channels, and the valve body has multiple valve ports. The valve core is rotatably mounted on a corresponding valve body to achieve switching communication between corresponding valve ports via the switching channels. The valve core is connected to a corresponding one-way bearing. The multiple valve cores include a first valve core and a second valve core. The multi-way valve assembly has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the actuator rotates forward to drive the first valve core to rotate while the second valve core does not rotate. In the second state, the actuator rotates in reverse to drive the second valve core to rotate while the first valve core does not rotate.

2. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Multiple power output components are disposed on the outer periphery of the power input component, multiple multi-way valves are disposed on the same side of the transmission mechanism in the axial direction of the power input component, the driver and the multi-way valves are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the transmission mechanism in the axial direction of the power input component, and the valve port is formed on the peripheral wall of the valve housing or one axial end of the valve housing.

3. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power input component is respectively driven by each of the power output components; or... At least one of the power output components is engaged with the power input component via other power output components.

4. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a housing, which is located at one end of the valve shell along the axial direction of the valve core, and the transmission mechanism is located inside the housing. The housing has first annular ribs protruding from the inner walls of its two opposite sides along the axial direction of the power input component, and the first annular ribs are abutted against on both sides of the power input component along the axial direction; and / or, The housing has second annular ribs protruding from the inner walls of the two sides opposite to each other in the axial direction of the power output component, and the second annular ribs are abutted on both sides of the power output component in the axial direction.

5. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The power input component has first mating portions formed on both axial sides, and the first mating portions mate with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the first annular rib; and / or, The power output component has a second mating part formed on both axial sides. The second mating part is mated to the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the corresponding second annular rib. The part of the valve core that mates with the one-way bearing passes through at least one of the second annular ribs.

6. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The housing includes a first housing and a second housing arranged opposite each other along the axial direction of the power output component. The second housing has a first through hole through which the valve core passes. The valve housing includes a first valve housing and a second valve housing arranged opposite each other along the axial direction of the power output component. The first valve housing has a second through hole through which the valve core passes. The end of the first valve housing away from the second through hole is open. The second valve housing covers the open end of the first valve housing. The second housing and at least one of the first valve housings are integrally formed.

7. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a housing, which is located at one end of the valve shell along the axial direction of the valve core, and the transmission mechanism is located inside the housing. The multi-way valve assembly also includes: A first seal is disposed between the power input element and the housing to separate the inside and outside of the housing; and / or, A second seal is disposed between the power output component and the housing or between the valve housing and the valve core to separate the internal space of the valve housing from the internal spaces of other valve housings.

8. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core includes a shaft portion and a core portion. The shaft portion is connected to the one-way bearing. The core portion is arranged around the shaft portion to define the switching flow channel. The inner wall of the valve housing is provided with a third annular rib and a limiting protrusion. The third annular rib is arranged around the shaft portion and abuts against one axial end of the core portion. A third mating portion on the core portion is engaged with the inner and / or outer peripheral walls of the third annular rib. A stepped portion is formed on the outer peripheral wall of the limiting protrusion. The end of the shaft portion away from the one-way bearing is sleeved on the limiting protrusion and abuts against the stepped portion.

9. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-way valve assembly is configured such that the first valve core and the second valve core can be positioned at any position within their rotation range. The power input component is a gear shaft, and each of the power output components directly meshes with the power input component.

10. The multi-way valve assembly according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Also includes: An angle sensor is disposed on the driver and is used to acquire the rotation angle information of the driver; And / or, A triggering structure is provided between the valve core and the valve body or in the power output component, and is used to determine the initial zero position of the valve core rotation angle.

11. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that, The multi-way valve assembly includes a triggering structure comprising a mating protrusion and an elastic element, the elastic element being adapted to abut against the mating protrusion to apply an elastic force to the mating protrusion that prevents it from rotating relative to the elastic element.

12. The multi-way valve assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, The triggering structure further includes a mounting base, which comprises a first mounting block, a second mounting block, and a third mounting block. The first and second mounting blocks are spaced apart circumferentially along the valve core. The third mounting block includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion. The first mounting portion is spaced between the first and second mounting blocks, and the second mounting portion is connected to the inner side of the first mounting portion in the radial direction of the valve core. Furthermore, in the circumferential direction of the valve core, the width of the second mounting portion is greater than the distance between the first and second mounting blocks. The elastic element is constructed as a spring sheet, which is disposed around the outer periphery of the third mounting block and sandwiched between the first mounting block and the second mounting block. The portion of the spring sheet located on the side of the second mounting portion away from the first mounting portion protrudes in a direction away from the first mounting portion, so as to be at least partially spaced from the third mounting block.

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

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

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