Device for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid in a fluid circuit

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for controlling the flow and distribution of fluids, particularly refrigerants, in a fluid circuit. The apparatus (1) has a housing (2) and a drive element (8), the housing having: connecting portions (3, 4, 5) for connection to a fluid line, the connecting portions being connected via a through opening to an internal volume of the housing (2); and a valve element (6) disposed within the internal volume of the housing (2), the drive element being used to move the valve element (6) relative to the housing (2). The valve element (6) has a through opening (7, 7a, 7b) and is mounted such that the valve element can move linearly in the axial direction along a longitudinal axis, such that a fluid passage is opened between a first connecting portion (3) and a second connecting portion (4) or a third connecting portion (5), the first connecting portion forming an inlet, the second connecting portion forming a main outlet, and the third connecting portion forming a secondary outlet. Furthermore, the device (1) has a first pressure chamber (11a) and a second pressure chamber (11b), each formed on the end faces (6a, 6b) of the valve element (6), forming regions of the internal volume of the housing (2), and the first and second pressure chambers are aligned in the axial direction. Additionally, the present invention relates to the use of the device (1) in a thermal system, particularly in a refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid (particularly refrigerant) in a fluid circuit (particularly a refrigerant circuit). The apparatus has a housing and a drive element. The housing has: a connection for connecting to a fluid line, the connection being connected via a through opening to an internal volume of the housing; and a valve element disposed within the internal volume of the housing. The drive element is used to move the valve element relative to the housing. Background Technology

[0002] According to existing technology, in motor vehicles, air conditioning systems with different circuits for refrigerant and coolant, and heat exchangers with different operations, meet the high requirements for passenger comfort in passenger compartments.

[0003] Furthermore, in most cases, conventional motor vehicles propelled by electric motors (referred to as electric vehicles) or motor vehicles with a hybrid drive system including both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine (referred to as hybrid vehicles) exhibit higher cooling or heating supply requirements than motor vehicles propelled solely by an internal combustion engine. This is because electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles are formed together with additional components of the electric powertrain system (such as high-voltage batteries, internal charging units, transformers, inverters, and motors). Apart from the refrigerant circuit of the air conditioning system itself, motor vehicles known in the prior art are manufactured using pure electric drive systems or electric hybrid drive systems with a coolant circuit. Coolant, circulating to dissipate heat generated by the drive components, is supplied to the coolant circuit via a coolant-refrigerant heat exchanger, enabling the transfer of heat generated by the coolant to the refrigerant circulating in the refrigerant circuit.

[0004] Due to the energy requirements, the thermal system of an electrically propelled motor vehicle has a significant impact on the vehicle's range.

[0005] For example, the distribution of heat flow in a motor vehicle, tailored to specific needs through different subsystems, facilitates faster air conditioning of components requiring optimal operating temperatures. In battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and vehicles with hybrid drive systems, where, in addition to air conditioning of the passenger compartment, air conditioning of high-voltage components such as those in the electric power transmission system is of particular interest, the impact of thermal system operation on the range of the motor vehicle must be minimized.

[0006] Furthermore, according to existing technology, the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system is formed in such a way that it can operate in both heat pump mode and refrigeration system mode to distribute heat energy within the vehicle. For example, particularly when operating the refrigerant circuit in heat pump mode, heat can be absorbed from the ambient air or the coolant circuit, which can then be transferred to components of the vehicle with heat requirements or to the supply air in the passenger compartment. When operating the refrigerant circuit in refrigeration system mode, heat can be absorbed from the passenger compartment or other components and transferred to the environment. For example, heat transfer medium circuits such as the refrigerant circuit and the coolant circuit are interconnected within the thermal system and connected to other components of the vehicle. Especially in the case of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), arranging the thermal systems for air conditioning of different components within existing installation space presents significant challenges.

[0007] DE 10 2013 206 626 A1 discloses a refrigerant circuit for air conditioning in vehicles. This refrigerant circuit has a compressor and several heat exchangers operating as evaporators or condensers for heat transfer with the refrigerant. The refrigerant circuit is configured with at least three evaporators and two condensers, with an expansion valve upstream of each evaporator for refrigerant expansion and a check valve downstream of each condenser to prevent repositioning of the refrigerant within the refrigerant circuit. The components of the refrigerant circuit, particularly a large number of valves, are connected to each other via connecting pipes.

[0008] Because each valve is designed to perform only one function, a large number of valves and connecting pipes are needed to provide multiple functions, with each valve having an actuator and connecting to a control unit, resulting in high system complexity. Besides high cost, this also leads to a large weight in the refrigerant circuit. Furthermore, it requires a large installation space.

[0009] What is unclear from the prior art is that several valves in the fluid circuit (especially the refrigerant circuit) are formed internally and therefore in a common housing and connected to each other to perform several functions, of which the conventional 3 / 2-way valve only performs the blocking function.

[0010] Furthermore, especially in refrigerant circuits using carbon dioxide as a refrigerant, switching valves between functions requires considerable force under pressure differentials as high as 100 bar.

[0011] DE 10 2016 013 492 A1 describes an expansion and shut-off valve, particularly an electrically driven expansion and shut-off valve operating with carbon dioxide as a refrigerant, having a valve body disposed within a valve body chamber, and gasket seats and gaskets disposed entirely within the valve body along its axial direction of movement. In the closed state, the diameter of the valve body at the positions of the gasket seats and gaskets (which are needle-shaped) corresponds to the corresponding gasket diameter. Furthermore, in the closed state, a pressure bypass is opened between the medium connection and the valve body chamber.

[0012] The valve has two media connections, wherein one flow section of the connection can be open or closed relative to each other; the flow section of the connection can be fully or only partially open. When the valve operates with the flow section partially open, the refrigerant expands as it flows through the valve. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Technical issues

[0014] The objective of this invention is to provide a device for controlling the flow and distribution of fluids in a refrigerant circuit of a thermal system (particularly a thermal management system for motor vehicles). The device is designed to combine functions (particularly valve functions) in a way that minimizes cost, weight, and installation space, in addition to system complexity. Furthermore, when used in a circuit where carbon dioxide is the circulating fluid, the device must be easy to operate (particularly with minimal force consumption).

[0015] Solution to the problem

[0016] The objective of this invention is achieved by means of an object having the features of the independent patent claims. Further embodiments are described in the dependent patent claims.

[0017] This task is accomplished by a device for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid (especially refrigerant) in at least one fluid circuit (especially a refrigerant circuit). The device has a housing and a drive element, the housing having: a connection for connecting to a fluid line, the connection being connected via a through opening to at least one internal volume of the housing; and at least one valve element disposed within the internal volume of the housing, the drive element being used to move the valve element relative to the housing.

[0018] According to the concept of the invention, at least one valve element has at least one through opening and is mounted such that at least one valve element is linearly movable in the axial direction along a longitudinal axis, such that a fluid passage is opened between a first connection forming an inlet and a second connection forming a main outlet, or between a first connection forming an inlet and a third connection forming a secondary outlet. The valve element can also be arranged such that no passage is opened between the inlet and the outlet, or the through opening of the valve element is closed.

[0019] Furthermore, according to the invention, the device has at least one first pressure chamber and one second pressure chamber, each formed on the end face of the valve element. As a region of the internal volume of the housing, both the first and second pressure chambers are aligned in the axial direction. The pressure chambers are preferably used for pressure balancing to reduce the kinetic energy or force required to move the valve element.

[0020] Preferably, the valve element is formed in the form of a cylinder (particularly a cube) aligned in the axial direction. In this context, a cube is understood as a prism having a rectangular base, wherein the prism is generated by parallel movement of the rectangular base along a straight line projecting from a plane. The straight line may be perpendicularly aligned to the plane of the base.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the side surfaces of the valve element and the side surfaces of the housing forming the internal volume are arranged parallel to each other (especially in pairs), wherein each side surface facing each other forms a groove for moving the valve element relative to the housing within the internal volume of the housing.

[0022] According to another embodiment of the invention, the end face of the valve element and the end face of the housing forming the internal volume are arranged such that the end face of the valve element and the end face of the housing face each other (in particular, parallel to each other), wherein a first pressure chamber is formed between the first end face of the housing and the first end face of the valve element, and a second pressure chamber is formed between the second end face of the housing and the second end face of the valve element.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the pressure chambers is fluidly connected to a through opening of a first connection portion of the housing, and the pressure chambers are fluidly connected to each other via a connecting channel, wherein the connecting channel is preferably formed inside the wall (particularly the sidewall) of the housing or inside the valve element. If the connecting channel is formed inside the valve element, the connecting channel extends between the end faces of the valve element.

[0024] The through opening and connecting channel of the valve element are fluidly connected to each other, preferably forming a common volume.

[0025] Another advantage of the present invention is that the first connecting portion is formed on the first side surface (particularly the first longitudinal side) of the housing, and the second connecting portion and the third connecting portion are formed on the second side surface (particularly the second longitudinal side) of the housing, wherein the second side surface is preferably arranged opposite to the first side surface.

[0026] The axes of symmetry of the through openings in the connection are preferably aligned parallel to each other. The flow cross-section of the through opening in the connection of the housing is preferably circular. The flow cross-section of the through opening is preferably formed to have a constant diameter along its length.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the through opening of the valve element extends through the valve element from a first side surface (particularly the first longitudinal side) toward a second side surface (particularly the second longitudinal side), wherein the second side surface is preferably arranged opposite to the first side surface. The first side surface is preferably aligned in the direction of the first connection portion of the housing, while the second side surface is aligned in the direction of the second or third connection portion of the housing.

[0028] The flow cross-section of the through opening of the valve element has a particularly substantially circular shape. The diameter of the flow cross-section of the through opening can be constant over its length and can correspond to the diameter of the circular flow cross-section of the through opening at the connection of the housing.

[0029] A valve element having at least one through opening is preferably configured such that, depending on the position of the valve element, it can expand as fluid flows out of the through opening. Therefore, the device preferably represents a combination of two valves (particularly two shut-off valves), each with an expansion function, and thus a combination of two shut-off valves and two expansion valves, wherein fluid (particularly refrigerant) is routed from the inlet to the main outlet or secondary outlet and can expand into the open flow path.

[0030] Another advantage of the present invention is that at least one groove is formed on the surface of the valve element, the at least one groove extending radially outward from the edge of the through opening, wherein the flow cross section of the groove through the through opening can be formed such that it is tapered in the outward radial direction or has a constant width.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one valve element is connected to a drive element via a connecting element, the drive element being arranged outside the housing.

[0032] The connecting element is preferably formed as a shaft, wherein the connecting element is arranged such that a first end is securely connected to a drive element, and a second end protrudes through one side into the housing and is connected to a valve element, the second end being formed to face the first end at its distal end.

[0033] The drive element can be configured as a linear motor or as a rotary motor with a transmission arrangement (particularly a thread). The transmission arrangement is used to transmit the rotational movement of the connecting element about its longitudinal axis into the translational lifting movement of the valve element, wherein the translational lifting movement corresponds to the linear movement.

[0034] The drive element used as a rotary motor is preferably configured as an electric actuator, particularly a stepper motor or servo motor, which preferably allows for the detection of, for example, angular position. The motor can be configured with a sensor for determining the position. The rotational position of the connecting element determined by the sensor can be continuously transmitted to an electronic closed-loop control unit, which controls the movement of the motor in a closed-loop control circuit according to a setpoint (e.g., the angular setpoint position of the connecting element).

[0035] The device according to the invention is configured as a highly integrated component for performing several functions, particularly a refrigerant valve. A large number of individual valves are incorporated into this device.

[0036] Beneficial effects of the present invention

[0037] Advantageous embodiments of the invention allow for the use of a device for controlling the flow and distribution of fluids in the refrigerant circuit of a motor vehicle's thermal system (particularly a thermal management system), for example, for regulating the mass flow rate of air to be supplied to components of the passenger compartment or powertrain. The device also functions as an adaptive multi-port refrigerant valve for motor vehicle air conditioning.

[0038] The refrigerant circuit of the device can be operated with any refrigerant, especially R1234yf, R1234a, R134a, R744, R404a, R600 or R600a, R290, R152a, R32 and mixtures thereof.

[0039] In summary, the device according to the invention is preferably configured as a three-way two-position sliding valve with an expansion function for the refrigerant "carbon dioxide," and in particular as a highly variable refrigerant valve with a large number of possible flow paths for the refrigerant. This device has several advantages:

[0040] - It combines the different functions of a three-way two-position valve, especially the expansion function;

[0041] - Reducing complexity during assembly makes it easier to control and reduce the probability of errors and failures, which lowers the expected warranty costs.

[0042] -Easy to operate due to reduced actuation force required to move valve elements;

[0043] - Also, because only one actuator is required and no connecting pipe is needed, the weight is minimized;

[0044] - Because no connecting pipes and sealing points are required, refrigerant leakage is minimized, thereby reducing the end-user's costs in the event of maintenance.

[0045] – Minimizes manufacturing, maintenance, and operating costs, and requires minimal installation space. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Further details, features, and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of examples of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings illustrate the following:

[0047] Figure 1a A device (particularly a valve) for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid in at least one fluid circuit (a refrigerant circuit for a thermal system of a motor vehicle) is illustrated in schematic.

[0048] Figures 1b to 1d Each is shown in cross-sectional view from different operating positions. Figure 1a The device;

[0049] Figure 1e A top view shows the source Figure 1a The position according to Figure 1d The device for operating the position;

[0050] Figures 2a to 2b The flow cross-section of the through opening of a valve element with a groove is shown, and

[0051] Figure 3a and Figure 3b Shown from Figure 2a and 2b The appropriate flow cross-section of the through opening of the grooved valve element together with the through opening of the housing connection (especially the fluid outlet). Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1a A device 1 (particularly a valve) for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid in a fluid circuit (a refrigerant circuit for a thermal system of a motor vehicle) is shown in schematic. Figures 1b to 1d Cross-sectional views show the different operating positions. Figure 1a Device 1.

[0053] Device 1 is configured as a highly integrated refrigerant valve for performing several functions, to replace, in particular, at least two valves according to the prior art, or to reduce the number of four valves to one component.

[0054] The device 1 has a preferred cubic housing 2, which has a first connection 3 serving as a refrigerant inlet, a second connection 4 serving as a main refrigerant outlet, and a third connection 5 serving as a secondary refrigerant outlet. Connections 3, 4, and 5 for refrigerant lines (which serve as connecting pipes for connection to other components of the refrigerant circuit) are each connected to the internal volume of the housing 2 via through openings. A valve element 6 is arranged within the volume.

[0055] The first connecting portion 3 is arranged on a first side surface, which is aligned in a plane spanning the x and y directions, or on a first longitudinal side of the housing 2. The second connecting portion 4 and the third connecting portion 5 are intended to be arranged on a common second side surface, which is also aligned in a plane spanning the x and y directions, or on a second longitudinal surface of the housing 2 opposite to the first side surface. The axes of symmetry of the through openings of the connecting portions 3, 4, and 5 are aligned parallel to each other. The diameter of the flow section of the through openings of the connecting portions 3, 4, and 5 of the housing 2 is constant.

[0056] Except for the areas of connecting parts 3, 4, and 5, housing 2 is enclosed. The external form of housing 2 is configured to ensure functionality (e.g., specific arrangements within the system) and to allow for cost-effective mass production with minimal component weight.

[0057] For example, a cylindrical (especially cubic) valve element 6 is connected to a drive element 8 (also called an actuator element or actuating element), and the drive element 8 is arranged outside the housing 2 via a connecting element 9. The longitudinal axes of the valve element 6 and the connecting element 9 are in the x-direction and coaxially face each other. The connecting element 9, formed as, for example, a shaft or adjusting rod, is firmly connected to the drive element 8 at a first end. The connecting element 9 is arranged with a second end, which is formed so that the second end protrudes into the housing 2 through the wall of the housing 2 on one end face, thus sealing it with the housing 2. The drive element 8 is formed as, for example, an actuator for driving the connecting element 9. The actuator, as an electric drive device, can have a stator with a coil package and a rotor with a package containing at least one permanent magnet. Therefore, the drive element 8 can be formed as a packaged motor or a direct drive motor or a rotary motor or a linear motor.

[0058] If the drive element 8 is configured as a rotary motor, the drive shaft serving as the connecting element 9 is configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis. The rotational movement of the connecting element 9 about its longitudinal axis is transmitted as a translational lifting movement of the valve element 6 in the x-direction via a transmission arrangement (particularly a thread, especially a so-called moving thread), which is not shown here and is formed on the connecting element 9 aligned in the axial direction. Therefore, the translational lifting movement corresponds to a linear movement of the valve element 6 in the axial movement direction 10 (i.e., in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connecting element 9 or the valve element 6), which extends through the end face 2a of the housing 2 and the end face 6a of the valve element 6 in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the device 1.

[0059] The threaded pair of this transmission arrangement is intended to be located between the connecting element 9 and the valve element 6, wherein the connecting element 9 has the form of a substantially cylindrical rod (particularly a round rod), and the connecting element 9 is inserted with one free end into an opening formed in the valve element 6. The free end of the connecting element 9 is arranged so that its distal end faces the end connected to the drive element 8. The connecting element 9 has an external thread at its free end as the first element of the threaded pair, and an internal thread is formed within the opening of the valve element 6 as the second element of the threaded pair.

[0060] The valve element 6, which moves linearly in the axial direction of movement 10, is held in place by its external cubic form, which extends substantially in the axial direction and corresponds to the internal volume of the housing 2, thus preventing rotational movement about the axial or longitudinal axis of the valve element 6. Linear movement in the axial direction is permitted. The valve element 6 moves linearly about the longitudinal axis in the direction of movement 10 by means of the rotational movement of the drive element 8 without its own rotation.

[0061] Alternatively, a threaded transmission arrangement can be provided inside the motor, so that the connecting element 9 combined with the valve element 6 can be transferred by translational lifting movement.

[0062] like Figure 1b As shown, the first connection 3, which serves as the refrigerant inlet, is connected to the second connection 4, which serves as the refrigerant first outlet, or as... Figure 1c As shown, the valve element 6, which is equipped with a through opening 7, is connected to the third connection part 5, which serves as the second outlet of the refrigerant, by moving linearly along the moving direction 10.

[0063] The opposing side surfaces and opposing end faces 6a and 6b of the valve element 6 are aligned parallel to each other, and each is also aligned parallel to the opposing side surfaces and opposing end faces 2a and 2b of the housing 2 forming the internal volume, and also parallel to the opposing external side surfaces and opposing end faces of the housing 2. The side surfaces of the valve element 6 and the side surfaces of the housing 2 forming the internal volume are in contact with each other, leaving a groove within the internal volume of the housing 2 for moving the valve element 6 relative to the housing 2. Therefore, the cross-section of the internal volume of the housing 2 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device 1 in which the valve element 6 is arranged is equal in form and size to the corresponding cross-section of the valve element 6 plus the groove (which serves as a gap for moving the valve element 6 relative to the housing 2). The internal volume of the housing 2 and the form of the valve element 6 are substantially different in their longitudinal extension.

[0064] A first pressure chamber 11a is intended to be located between a first end face 2a of the housing 2 forming the internal volume and a first end face 6a of the valve element 6, the first end faces 2a and 6a facing each other, and is located between a second end face 2b of the housing 2 forming the internal volume and a second end face 6b of the valve element 6, the second end faces 2b and 6b facing each other, and a second pressure chamber 11b serves as a free and variable volume for containing refrigerant. Furthermore, the pressure chambers 11a and 11b are bounded by the side surfaces of the housing 2 forming the internal volume.

[0065] The total volume of pressure chambers 11a and 11b is constant. The volume of pressure chambers 11a and 11b is changed by the linear movement of valve element 6 along the moving direction 10. Figures 1b to 1d As shown, on the one hand, pressure chambers 11a and 11b are connected to the through opening of the first connecting portion 3 of the housing 2. On the other hand, pressure chambers 11a and 11b are fluidly connected to each other via connecting channel 12, so that the refrigerant pressurizing chambers 11a and 11b flows between pressure chambers 11a and 11b according to the moving direction 10 of valve element 6. The connecting channel 12 may also be formed as, for example, a flat section or chamfer on one side of valve element 6 inside the valve element or inside the wall (especially the side wall of housing 2), extending between end faces 6a and 6b.

[0066] The through opening 7 of valve element 6 extends through valve element 6 from a first side surface or a first longitudinal side to a second side surface or a second longitudinal side. The inlet of the through opening 7 is intended to be located on the longitudinal side of valve element 6, contacting the first connecting portion 3 on the side surface of the wall of housing 2. The outlet of the through opening 7 is intended to be located on the longitudinal side of valve element 6, contacting the second connecting portion 4 and the third connecting portion 5 on the side surface of the wall of housing 2. The inlet of the through opening 7 of valve element 6 is formed such that the through opening of the valve element corresponds to the through opening of the first connecting portion 3 of housing 2, and the outlet of the through opening 7 of valve element 6 corresponds to the through openings of the second connecting portion 4 and the third connecting portion 5 of housing 2. The diameter of the circular flow cross-section of the through openings of the corresponding connecting portions 3, 4, and 5 is equal to the diameter of the circular flow cross-section of the through opening 7 of valve element 6. The diameter of the flow cross-section of the through opening 7 of valve element 6 is substantially constant.

[0067] According to such Figure 1b The operating position of the device 1 shown or as follows Figure 1d In the operating position of the third connection 5 shown, the through opening 7 of the valve element 6 is aligned in such a way that the through opening 7 is consistent with the through opening of the second connection 4.

[0068] The through opening of the first connecting part 3 is centered in the x-direction between the through opening of the second connecting part 4 and the through opening of the third connecting part 5. The axes of symmetry of the through openings of the connecting parts 3, 4, and 5, which extend parallel to each other, are arranged in a common plane spanned by the x-direction and the z-direction.

[0069] A valve element 6, having a through opening 7 and corresponding connecting portions 3, 4, 5, is arranged to be movable within the housing 2, such that the flow opening for the refrigerant is partially or completely blocked or released. Furthermore, the valve element 6 is fluid-tightly sealed relative to the housing 2 to provide a refrigerant-specific passage. The manufacturing tolerances of the housing 2 and the valve element 6 are selected such that the refrigerant can flow only through the connecting portions 3, 4, 5 of the housing 2 with corresponding through openings, and through the through opening 7 of the valve element 6, thereby avoiding undesirable bypass flow between the surface of the valve element 6 and the housing 2.

[0070] The geometry of the through opening 7 of the valve element 6 (particularly the geometry of the flow section of the end facing the connection 4, 5 of the housing 2 (which forms the outlet of the refrigerant and is also referred to as the outlet height of the through opening 7) is formed in such a way that the geometry deviates from a circular shape at many points in order to ensure the expansion function of the refrigerant when the refrigerant flows out of the housing 2 of the device 1.

[0071] Figure 1d The cross-sectional view shows the device in the operating position. Figure 1a The device 1, in this operating position, has an expansion function for refrigerant that flows into the device 1 through the connection part 3 and flows out of the device 1 through the connection part 5. Figure 1e A top view shows the location according to Figure 1d operation position Figure 1a Device 1. Only a portion of the area with the largest possible flow cross-section is opened for refrigerant expansion. Connection 4 is closed.

[0072] Figure 2a and Figure 2b The flow sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b of the valve element 6 are shown, which have grooves 14a and 14b (also referred to as expansion notches or control notches) at their outlet height. The grooves 14a and 14b are arranged on the edges of the through openings 7a and 7b of the valve element 6.

[0073] according to Figure 2a The flow section 13a of the groove 14a of the through opening 7a gradually tapers as the distance from the center of the through opening 7a (i.e., in the x direction) increases, and thus takes the form of a triangle (especially an isosceles triangle, and particularly an equilateral triangle). Therefore, the ends of the flow section 13a of the through opening 7a facing the connecting portions 4, 5 of the housing 2 take the form of a circle with an extension similar to a V-shaped notch or a control droplet.

[0074] according to Figure 2b The flow section 13b of the groove 14b through the opening 7b is formed with a constant width in the x direction, and thus takes on a shape similar to a rectangle. Therefore, the ends of the flow section 13b through the opening 7b facing the connecting portions 4 and 5 of the housing 2 take on a circular shape with rectangular extensions.

[0075] In the longitudinal direction corresponding to the z-direction of the through openings 7a and 7b, the flow cross sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b, or within the valve element 6, are constant in the z-direction up to a specified depth, and the grooves 14a and 14b each have a constant extension in the x-direction, or the flow cross sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b gradually taper from the axis of symmetry of the through opening 7a, and continuously decrease in the z-direction up to a specified depth within the valve element 6 as the distance from the ends of the connecting portions 4 and 5 (formed as refrigerant outlets) facing the housing 2 increases. Therefore, the grooves 14a and 14b have a constant extension in the x-direction, or an extension that decreases (especially continuously) as the distance from the outlet height of the through openings 7a and 7b increases.

[0076] Alternatively, grooves 14a and 14b can also be formed along the entire length of the through opening 7; in particular, this also... Figure 1d As shown in the image.

[0077] The expansion function of the refrigerant is adjusted by the arrangement of the valve elements 6 inside the housing 2 (particularly by the relative arrangement of the flow cross-sections of the through openings of the connecting portions 4 and 5 forming the outlet, and the relative arrangement of the flow cross-sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b of the valve elements 6). The valve elements 6 are moved and arranged such that the flow cross-sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b of the valve elements 6 and the flow cross-section of one of the connecting portions 4 and 5 overlap only in the areas of the grooves 14a and 14b. The expansion function can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the flow cross-section of the refrigerant through the device 1 by moving the valve elements 6 along the moving direction 10.

[0078] Figure 3a and Figure 3b It shows a through opening connecting to one of the connection portions 4, 5 of the housing 2 (particularly the refrigerant outlet). Figure 2a and Figure 2b The corresponding flow sections 13a and 13b of the through openings 7a and 7b of the valve element 6 having grooves 14a and 14b, wherein, in particular, Figure 3a It shows Figure 1e A detailed view of the arrangement of the through opening 7a of the valve element 6 and the through opening of the connection portion 5 formed as an outlet.

[0079] With the refrigerant passage of device 1 fully open, valve element 6 is aligned within housing 2 in such a manner that the axes of symmetry of the following through openings are arranged coaxially or on a common axis: the through opening of the first connecting portion 3 of housing 2, the through openings 7a and 7b of valve element 6, and according to... Figure 1b The through opening of the second connecting part 4 or according to Figure 1c The third connection 5 has a through opening, wherein, depending on the operating position of the valve element 6, the refrigerant flows into the device 1 through the first connection 3, which is formed as an inlet, is routed to the through opening 7 via the connecting channel 12, and flows out of the device 1 through the connections 4 and 5, which are formed as outlets. Therefore, the valve element 6 is formed in such a way that the through openings 7, 7a, and 7b are connected to the connecting channel 12, thereby forming a common volume.

[0080] Reference tag list

[0081] 1 device

[0082] 2. Shell

[0083] 2a First end face

[0084] 2b Second end face

[0085] 3 First connecting part, entrance

[0086] 4. Second connecting part, first outlet

[0087] 5. Third connecting part, second outlet

[0088] 6 Valve Components

[0089] 6a First end face

[0090] 6b Second end face

[0091] 7,7a,7b Through openings of valve element 6

[0092] 8. Valve element 6's drive element

[0093] 9. Connecting element of valve element 8

[0094] 10. Direction of movement of valve element 6

[0095] 11a First pressure chamber

[0096] 11b Second Pressure Chamber

[0097] 12. Connection channel between pressure chambers 11a and 11b

[0098] Flow sections 13a and 13b

[0099] 14a, 14b Grooves

[0100] x, y, z directions

Claims

1. A device (1) for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid in at least one fluid circuit, the device having a housing (2) and a drive element (8), the housing being equipped with: a connection (3, 4, 5) for connection to a fluid line, the connection being connected via a through opening to at least one internal volume of the housing (2); and at least one valve element (6) arranged in the internal volume of the housing (2), the drive element being for moving the valve element (6) relative to the housing (2), characterized in that, The at least one valve element (6) has at least one through opening (7, 7a, 7b) and is mounted such that the at least one valve element can move linearly in the axial direction along the longitudinal axis, such that the passage of the fluid is opened between a first connection (3) and a second connection (4) or a third connection (5), the first connection forming an inlet, the second connection forming a main outlet, and the third connection forming a secondary outlet, and the device (1) has at least one first pressure chamber (11a) and a second pressure chamber (11b), the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber being formed on the end faces (6a, 6b) of the valve element (6), as regions of the internal volume of the housing (2), the first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber being aligned in the axial direction. The first pressure chamber and the second pressure chamber (11a, 11b) are fluidly connected to each other via a connecting channel (12) formed inside the valve element (6) and extending between the end faces (6a, 6b) of the valve element (6). The connecting channel (12) is fluidly connected to the first connecting part (3) and the through opening (7, 7a, 7b).

2. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve element (6) is formed as a cylinder aligned in the axial direction.

3. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The side surface of the valve element (6) and the side surface of the housing (2) forming the internal volume are arranged parallel to each other, wherein a gap is formed between the side surfaces of the valve element and the housing to allow the valve element (6) to move relative to the housing (2) within the internal volume of the housing (2).

4. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end faces (6a, 6b) of the valve element (6) and the end faces (2a, 2b) of the housing (2) forming the internal volume are arranged such that the end faces of the valve element and the end faces of the housing face each other, wherein the first pressure chamber (11a) is formed between the first end faces (2a, 6a) and the second pressure chamber (11b) is formed between the second end faces (2b, 6b).

5. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first connecting portion (3) is formed on the first side surface of the housing (2), and the second connecting portion (4) and the third connecting portion (5) are formed on the second side surface of the housing (2), wherein the second side surface is arranged opposite to the first side surface.

6. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axes of symmetry of the through openings of the connecting parts (3, 4, 5) are aligned parallel to each other.

7. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow cross section of the through opening of the connecting part (3, 4, 5) of the shell (2) has a circular shape, wherein the diameter of the flow cross section of the through opening is equal.

8. The apparatus (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The through openings of the connecting portions (3, 4, 5) have equal diameters.

9. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The through opening (7, 7a, 7b) of the valve element (6) is formed such that the through opening of the valve element (6) extends from the first side surface of the valve element (6) toward the second side surface of the valve element (6) through the valve element (6), wherein the second side surface is arranged opposite to the first side surface, and the first side surface is aligned in the direction of the first connection portion (3) of the housing (2), and the second side surface is aligned in the direction of the second connection portion (4) and the third connection portion (5) of the housing (2).

10. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flow cross section (13a, 13b) of the through opening (7, 7a, 7b) of the valve element (6) has a substantially circular shape, wherein the diameter of the flow cross section (13a, 13b) is constant.

11. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A valve element (6) having at least one through opening (7, 7a, 7b) is configured such that, depending on the position of the valve element (6), it can expand when the fluid flows out of the through opening (7, 7a, 7b).

12. The apparatus (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least one groove (14a, 14b) is formed on the surface of the valve element (6), the at least one groove extending radially outward from the edge of the through opening (7a, 7b).

13. The apparatus (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The flow section (13a) of the groove (14a) of the through opening (7a) is formed such that the flow section is tapered in the outward radial direction.

14. The apparatus (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The flow section (13b) of the groove (14b) of the through opening (7b) is formed to have a constant width outward in the radial direction.

15. The apparatus (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve element (6) is connected to the drive element (8) via a connecting element (9), the drive element being arranged outside the housing (2).

16. The apparatus (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The connecting element (9) is formed as a shaft.

17. The apparatus (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The connecting element (9) is arranged such that a first end of the connecting element is securely connected to the drive element (8) and a second end protrudes into the housing (2) through one side and is connected to the valve element (6), the second end being formed to face the first end at the distal end.

18. The apparatus (1) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The drive element (8) is formed as an actuator.

19. Use of the apparatus (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18 for controlling the flow and distribution of fluid in the refrigerant circuit of a thermal system of a motor vehicle.

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