Valve device

Abstract

A valve device capable of controlling the cooling water of a vehicle's heat-generating element comprises: a housing having a housing body forming an internal space on its inner side, a port connecting the internal space to the outside of the housing body, and a housing opening connecting the internal space to the outside of the housing body; a valve having a valve body rotatable about a rotation axis within the internal space, a valve body internal flow path formed on the inner side of the valve body, a valve body opening connecting the valve body internal flow path to the outside of the valve body, and a shaft provided on the rotation axis, capable of changing the communication state between the valve body internal flow path and the port via the valve body opening according to the rotation position of the valve body; a partition provided at the housing opening to separate the internal space from the outside of the housing body, and capable of supporting the shaft; a drive unit cover provided on the opposite side of the internal space relative to the partition unit, forming a drive unit space between the cover and the partition unit; and a drive unit provided in the drive unit space, capable of rotating and driving the valve body via the shaft.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201980036337.9, filed on May 29, 2019, entitled "Valve Device". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to valve devices. Background Technology

[0003] Previously, valve devices with rotating valve bodies were known.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: US Patent No. 8695542 Summary of the Invention

[0007] For example, in the valve device described in Patent Document 1, the inner wall of the housing forming the internal space is formed into a cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the outer peripheral wall of the valve body, which is rotatably disposed within the internal space, is also formed into a cylindrical shape.

[0008] Therefore, the distance between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body and the inner wall of the housing is the same in the circumferential direction, that is, it is constant throughout the entire circumferential range of the valve body and the inner wall of the housing. Consequently, if foreign matter in the cooling water of the internal space enters the gap between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body and the inner wall of the housing, even if the valve body rotates, the foreign matter is difficult to expel, and may therefore accumulate continuously in this gap. If foreign matter continues to accumulate in this gap, it may lead to malfunction of the valve body. Furthermore, it may increase the load torque and pressure loss resistance related to the valve body's operation.

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide a valve device capable of suppressing malfunctions of the valve body.

[0010] <10-1> Inner wall of a non-circular shell

[0011] The first technical solution of the present invention is a valve device capable of controlling the cooling water of a vehicle's heating element, comprising a housing and a valve.

[0012] The shell has a shell body with a cylindrical inner wall forming an internal space on the inside, and a port that opens on the inner wall of the shell and connects the internal space to the outside of the shell body.

[0013] The valve has a valve body that can rotate within an internal space about a rotation axis that runs along the inner wall of the housing, and a valve body opening that connects the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of the valve body, and can open and close the port according to the rotation position of the valve body.

[0014] The inner wall of the shell is formed such that the distance from the axis varies in the circumferential direction.

[0015] Therefore, when the outer peripheral wall of the valve body is circular in a section perpendicular to the valve body's rotation axis, the distance between the outer peripheral wall and the inner wall of the housing varies circumferentially. That is, the distance between the outer peripheral wall and the inner wall is not constant circumferentially, and the gap between them has a larger and a smaller portion in the circumferential direction. Thus, even if foreign matter in the cooling water within the internal space enters the gap between the outer peripheral wall and the inner wall, the foreign matter is moved to the larger gap by the valve body's rotation and can be easily discharged through that gap. Therefore, malfunctions in the valve body caused by the continuous accumulation of foreign matter in the gap between the outer peripheral wall and the inner wall can be suppressed. Furthermore, the increase in load torque related to valve body drive and the increase in pressure loss resistance can be suppressed. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Regarding the above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention, while referring to the appendix... Figure 1 The following detailed description will make this clearer.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a cooling system using the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the valve device of the first embodiment in a vehicle.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the sealing unit of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body and the opening / closing state of the valve body opening in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 It is Figure 3 The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow VIII.

[0025] Figure 9 It is Figure 3The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow IX.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drive section of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drive section of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drive section of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drive section of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0031] Figure 15 This is a plan view showing the drive section of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the drive section of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0034] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the drive section of the valve device in the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the valve of the valve device in the third embodiment.

[0037] Figure 21 This is a diagram showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the valve of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0039] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the valve of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0040] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0041] Figure 25This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the valve and the sealing unit of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0042] Figure 26 This is a perspective view showing the valve and sealing unit of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0043] Figure 27 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0044] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0045] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0046] Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0047] Figure 31 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0048] Figure 32 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the third embodiment.

[0049] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the valve and the sealing unit of the valve device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0050] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0051] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of the mold device used in the manufacturing process of the valve device in the fifth embodiment.

[0052] Figure 36 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the mold device used in the manufacturing process of the valve device in the fifth embodiment.

[0053] Figure 37 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the mold device used in the manufacturing process of the valve device in the fifth embodiment.

[0054] Figure 38 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the mold device used in the manufacturing process of the valve device in the fifth embodiment.

[0055] Figure 39 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0056] Figure 40 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0057] Figure 41 This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of the valve in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0058] Figure 42 This is a cross-sectional view showing the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0059] Figure 43 This is a diagram showing the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0060] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment in a vehicle.

[0061] Figure 45 This is a diagram showing the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0062] Figure 46 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0063] Figure 47 It is Figure 42 The image viewed from the direction of arrow XLVII.

[0064] Figure 48 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0065] Figure 49 This is a diagram showing a portion of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0066] Figure 50 This is a cross-sectional view showing the pipe components, sealing unit, and gasket of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0067] Figure 51 This is an exploded view showing a portion of the valve device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0068] Figure 52 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the sixth embodiment.

[0069] Figure 53 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the seventh embodiment.

[0070] Figure 54 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the eighth embodiment.

[0071] Figure 55 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the 9th embodiment.

[0072] Figure 56 This is a diagram showing the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the 10th embodiment.

[0073] Figure 57 This is a diagram showing the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the 10th embodiment.

[0074] Figure 58 This is a diagram showing the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device according to the 11th embodiment.

[0075] Figure 59 This is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the 12th embodiment.

[0076] Figure 60 This is a diagram showing the through hole in the partition wall of the valve device in the 13th embodiment.

[0077] Figure 61 This is a diagram showing the valve device of the 14th embodiment.

[0078] Figure 62 It is Figure 61 The image viewed from the direction of arrow LXII.

[0079] Figure 63 It is Figure 61 The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow LXIII.

[0080] Figure 64 It is Figure 61 The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow LXIV.

[0081] Figure 65 It is Figure 61 The image viewed from the direction of arrow LXV.

[0082] Figure 66 It is Figure 62 The image viewed from the direction of arrow LXVI.

[0083] Figure 67 yes Figure 62 Sectional view of LXVII-LXVII line.

[0084] Figure 68 yes Figure 64 Sectional view of LXVIII-LXVIII line.

[0085] Figure 69 yes Figure 67 A cross-sectional view of the LXIX-LXIX line.

[0086] Figure 70 yes Figure 62 Sectional view of the LXX-LXX line.

[0087] Figure 71 yes Figure 62 Sectional view of LXXI-LXXI line.

[0088] Figure 72 yes Figure 62 Sectional view of line LXXII-LXXII.

[0089] Figure 73 yes Figure 62 Sectional view of line LXXIII-LXXIII.

[0090] Figure 74 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0091] Figure 75 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0092] Figure 76 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0093] Figure 77 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0094] Figure 78 This is an exploded view showing a portion of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0095] Figure 79 yes Figure 62 A cross-sectional view of the LXXIX-LXXIX line.

[0096] Figure 80 This is a diagram showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0097] Figure 81 This is a diagram showing the retaining component of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0098] Figure 82 It is Figure 81 The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow LXXXII.

[0099] Figure 83 This is a plan view showing the drive section of the valve device in the 14th embodiment.

[0100] Figure 84 yes Figure 62 Sectional view along line LXXXIV-LXXXIV.

[0101] Figure 85 This is an exploded perspective view showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0102] Figure 86This is an exploded perspective view showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0103] Figure 87 This is a diagram showing the drive unit cover and a part of the drive unit of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0104] Figure 88 This is a diagram showing the retaining component of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0105] Figure 89 It is Figure 88 The image viewed from the direction of arrow LXXXIX.

[0106] Figure 90 This is a diagram showing the valve of the valve device in the 14th embodiment.

[0107] Figure 91 It is Figure 90 The image viewed from the direction of arrow XCI.

[0108] Figure 92 It is Figure 90 The image viewed from the direction of arrow XCII.

[0109] Figure 93 It is Figure 90 The diagram viewed from the direction of arrow XCIII.

[0110] Figure 94 It is Figure 90 The image viewed from the direction of arrow XCIV.

[0111] Figure 95 It is Figure 93 The image viewed from the direction of arrow XCV.

[0112] Figure 96 yes Figure 91 XCVI-XCVI line section view.

[0113] Figure 97 This is a perspective view of the valve of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0114] Figure 98 This is a perspective view of the valve of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0115] Figure 99 This is a perspective view showing the valve and sealing unit of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0116] Figure 100 This is a diagram showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the 14th embodiment.

[0117] Figure 101This is a perspective view showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the 14th embodiment.

[0118] Figure 102 This is an exploded perspective view showing a portion of the valve in the valve device of the 14th embodiment.

[0119] Figure 103 This is a cross-sectional view showing the partition wall portion of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0120] Figure 104 This is a perspective view showing a portion of the partition wall of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0121] Figure 105 This is a cross-sectional view showing the shaft bearing portion and its vicinity of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0122] Figure 106 This is a cross-sectional view showing the shaft bearing portion and its vicinity of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0123] Figure 107 This is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the shaft bearing portion and its vicinity of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0124] Figure 108 yes Figure 67 CVIII-CVIII line section view.

[0125] Figure 109 This is a cross-sectional view showing the gap between the valve body and the inner wall of the housing of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0126] Figure 110 This is a diagram showing the housing of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0127] Figure 111 This is a perspective view showing the housing of the valve device according to the 14th embodiment.

[0128] Figure 112 yes Figure 64 CXII-CXII line section view.

[0129] Figure 113 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body and the opening degree of the port in the valve device of the 15th embodiment.

[0130] Figure 114 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body of the valve device in the 15th embodiment and the overlap ratio of the valve body opening and port.

[0131] Figure 115 This is a diagram showing the valve device of the 16th embodiment.

[0132] Figure 116 This is a diagram showing the valve of the valve device in the 17th embodiment.

[0133] Figure 117 This is a diagram showing the valve of the valve device in the 18th embodiment.

[0134] Figure 118 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the partition wall of the valve device according to the 19th embodiment.

[0135] Figure 119 This is a cross-sectional view showing the partition wall portion and its vicinity of the valve device in the 20th embodiment.

[0136] Figure 120 This is a diagram showing the housing of the valve device according to the 21st embodiment.

[0137] Figure 121 This is a perspective view showing the housing of the valve device according to the 21st embodiment.

[0138] Figure 122 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body of the valve device in the 22nd embodiment and the overlap ratio of the valve body opening and port.

[0139] Figure 123 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body of the valve device in the 23rd embodiment and the overlap ratio of the valve body opening and port.

[0140] Figure 124 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body and the opening degree of the port in the valve device of the 24th embodiment.

[0141] Figure 125 This is a diagram showing the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body of the valve device in the 24th embodiment and the overlap ratio of the valve body opening and port.

[0142] Figure 126 This is a cross-sectional view showing the shaft seal portion and its vicinity of the valve device according to the 25th embodiment.

[0143] Figure 127 This is a schematic diagram showing a cooling system using the valve device of the 26th embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0144] Hereinafter, valve devices according to several embodiments will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, substantially identical components in the various embodiments will be given the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted. Additionally, substantially identical components in the various embodiments will have the same or identical functional effects.

[0145] (First Embodiment)

[0146] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows the valve device and cooling system of the first embodiment. The valve device 10 is applied to the cooling system 9 of the vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 is equipped with an internal combustion engine (hereinafter referred to as "engine") 2 as a heat source, a cooling system 9, a heater 6, equipment 7, etc.

[0147] Cooling System

[0148] The cooling system 9 includes a valve device 10, a water pump 4, a radiator 5, and an electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as "ECU") 8. The water pump 4 pumps coolant toward the water jacket 3 of the engine 2. The valve device 10 is located, for example, at the outlet of the water jacket 3, to adjust the flow rate of coolant supplied to the radiator 5, heater 6, and equipment 7.

[0149] Radiator 5 is a heat exchanger that exchanges heat between cooling water and air, lowering the temperature of the cooling water. Heater 6 and equipment 7 are located between valve assembly 10 and water pump 4. Here, equipment 7 includes, for example, an oil cooler, an EGR cooler, and an ATF (automatic transmission fluid) cooler.

[0150] When the coolant flows to the heater 6, heat exchange occurs between the air and the coolant inside the vehicle 1. When the coolant flows to the device 7, heat exchange occurs between the fluid (oil, EGR gas, etc.) flowing through the device 7 and the coolant. The ECU 8 controls the operation of the valve device 10, and can control the flow rate of coolant supplied to the radiator 5, heater 6, and device 7.

[0151] Valve Device

[0152] like Figure 3 As shown, the valve device 10 includes a housing 20, a valve 30, a sealing unit 35, a pipe component 50, a partition 60, a drive unit 70, and a drive unit cover 80.

[0153] The housing 20 includes a housing body 21, etc. The housing body 21 is formed, for example, of resin, and has an internal space 200 formed on its inner side. A planar mounting surface 201 is formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21. A planar tube mounting surface 202 is formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21 on the side opposite to the mounting surface 201. Here, the mounting surface 201 is formed to be substantially parallel to the tube mounting surface 202.

[0154] Here, the shell body 21 is a part of the shell 20 and refers to the part that forms the internal space 200. Therefore, although the connecting parts 231 to 233, the shell side fixing parts 251 to 256, the shell connecting parts 259, and the shell side cover fixing parts 291 to 296 described later are parts that constitute the shell 20, they are formed as parts different from the shell body 21.

[0155] The housing body 21 has a housing opening 210 that connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21. Furthermore, the housing body 21 has a cylindrical housing inner wall 211, one end of which is connected to the housing opening 210 and forms the internal space 200. Here, the housing inner wall 211 is formed such that its axis is substantially parallel to the mounting surface 201 and the tube mounting surface 202.

[0156] An opening 210 is formed at one end of the housing body 21 in the longer direction, and the other end in the longer direction is a closed surface.

[0157] The housing 20 has an inlet port 220 that opens on a mounting surface 201 and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21. The opening of the inlet port 220 on the mounting surface 201 is circular. Here, the inlet port 220 corresponds to "port" or "first port". The housing 20 has outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 that open on a pipe mounting surface 202 and connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21. Here, the outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 correspond to "port" or "second port".

[0158] The opening of the inlet port 220 is formed in the inner wall 211 of the housing at a location opposite to the location where the openings of the outlet ports 221 to 223 are formed.

[0159] like Figure 8 As shown, the housing 20 has an overflow port 224 that opens on the pipe mounting surface 202 and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0160] Viewed axially from the inlet port 220, the inlet port 220 and the overflow port 224 partially overlap (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0161] Starting from the end of the housing body 21 opposite to the housing opening 210, outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 are arranged sequentially toward the housing opening 210. The inner diameter of outlet port 221 is larger than the inner diameter of outlet ports 222 and 223.

[0162] Valve 30 includes a valve body 31, a shaft 32, etc. The valve body 31 is formed of resin, for example. The valve body 31 is rotatably disposed within the internal space 200 about a rotation axis Axr1. Here, the rotation axis Axr1 is set to be substantially parallel to the axis of the inner wall 211 of the housing. The valve body 31 includes a first segment 33 and a second segment 34, which are divided into two by an imaginary plane Vp1 containing the rotation axis Axr1. The first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are joined at their respective mating surfaces (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0163] The valve body 31 includes ball valves 41, 42, and 43, a cylindrical connecting portion 44, and a cylindrical valve connecting portion 45. Here, ball valves 41, 42, and 43 correspond to "first ball valve," "second ball valve," and "third ball valve," respectively. Furthermore, the cylindrical connecting portion 44 and the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45 correspond to "cylindrical portion." Ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are each formed in a generally spherical shape, forming a valve body flow path 300 on their inner sides. The outer peripheral walls of ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are formed into spherical surfaces that bulge outwards from the radial direction of the rotation shaft Axr1. The inner peripheral walls of ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are recessed outwards from the radial direction of the rotation shaft Axr1 and are also formed into spherical surfaces.

[0164] The cylindrical connecting portion 44 is formed in a cylindrical shape to connect ball valve 41 and ball valve 42. The cylindrical valve connecting portion 45 is formed in a cylindrical shape to connect ball valve 42 and ball valve 43. Here, the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45 forms a valve body flow path 300 on its inner side. Ball valve 41, cylindrical connecting portion 44, ball valve 42, cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and ball valve 43 are integrally formed sequentially.

[0165] Ball valves 41, 42, and 43 each have valve body openings 410, 420, and 430 that connect the internal flow path 300 of the valve body to the outside of the valve body 31. A valve space 400 is formed radially outside the cylindrical connecting portion 44 between ball valves 41 and 42. The valve space 400 communicates with the internal flow path 300 of each of the ball valves 41 and 42.

[0166] The valve body 31 is disposed in the internal space 200 such that, in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, the valve body opening 410 corresponds to the position of the outlet port 221, the valve space 400 corresponds to the position of the inlet port 220, the valve body opening 420 corresponds to the position of the outlet port 222 and the inlet port 222, and the valve body opening 430 corresponds to the position of the outlet port 223.

[0167] The shaft 32, for example, is formed of metal in the shape of a rod and is disposed on the rotating shaft Axr1. Here, the shaft 32 is integrally disposed with the valve body 31. The shaft 32 is capable of rotating together with the valve body 31 about the rotating shaft Axr1.

[0168] Shaft 32 is made of stainless steel such as SUS430.

[0169] like Figure 3 As shown, the rotation axis Axr1 is configured to extend from the outside of the housing body 21 to the outside of the drive unit cover 80. That is, the rotation axis Axr1 is defined as a straight line that exists not only in the internal space 200 but also outside the housing body 21. The shaft 32 is provided on the rotation axis Axr1 such that it is aligned with the rotation axis Axr1.

[0170] The valve body 31 is rotatably disposed in the internal space 200 about the rotation axis Axr1. The shaft 32 is disposed on a straight line along the rotation axis Axr1. That is, the shaft 32 is disposed on at least a portion of the rotation axis Axr1.

[0171] like Figure 3 As shown, in this embodiment, the shaft 32 is configured to extend from one end face of the valve body 31 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, i.e., the outer side of the first outermost end face 301, through the interior of the valve body 31, i.e., the valve body internal flow path 300, to the other end face, i.e., the outer side of the second outermost end face 302.

[0172] In contrast, in other embodiments, the shaft 32 can also be configured to extend from the outer side of the first outermost end face 301 of the valve body 31 to the inner wall of the valve body 31, without protruding into the internal flow path 300 of the valve body. That is, the shaft 32 may not exist within the internal flow path 300 or the internal space 200 of the valve body; as long as it is located on a straight line along the rotation axis Axr1, its position relative to the valve body 31 is arbitrary.

[0173] The tubular component 50 is, for example, formed of resin. Figure 3 , Figure 8 As shown, the pipe component 50 includes pipe sections 511 to 517, a pipe connecting section 52, etc. Pipe sections 511 to 517 are each formed in a cylindrical shape. Pipe section 511 is positioned such that one end is located inside the outlet port 221. Pipe section 512 is positioned such that one end is located inside the outlet port 222. Pipe section 513 is positioned such that one end is located inside the outlet port 223. Pipe section 514 is positioned such that one end corresponds to the position of the overflow port 224.

[0174] Tube section 515 is provided with one end connected to tube sections 511 and 514. Tube section 516 is provided with one end connected to tube section 511. Tube section 517 is provided with one end connected to tube section 512.

[0175] The pipe connector 52 is configured to connect one end of the pipe sections 511 to 515. The pipe component 50 is fixed to the housing body 21 by the pipe connector 52 abutting against the pipe mounting surface 202. A gasket 509 is provided between the pipe connector 52 and the pipe mounting surface 202 to maintain a liquid-tight connection between the pipe component 50 and the housing body 21.

[0176] The other ends of pipes 511, 514, and 515 are connected to radiator 5 via hoses or the like. The other end of pipe 512 is connected to heater 6 via hoses or the like. The other end of pipe 513 is connected to device 7 via hoses or the like. The other end of pipe 516 is connected to a storage tank (not shown) via hoses or the like. The other end of pipe 517 is connected to a throttle (not shown) via hoses or the like.

[0177] Sealing units 35 are respectively installed at outlet ports 221, 222, and 223. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the sealing unit 35 includes a valve seal 36, a sleeve 371, a spring 372, and a sealing member 373. The valve seal 36 is formed of resin in a generally annular shape, for example, and has a sealing opening 360 on its inner side. The valve seal 36 is disposed such that one side abuts against the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31, thereby maintaining a liquid seal between the valve seal 36 and the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31.

[0178] Valve seal 36 is formed, for example, from a material in which 14% graphite and 1% CF (carbon fiber) are mixed in PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene). Therefore, compared with valve body 31, valve seal 36 has a lower coefficient of friction and improved wear resistance, compressive strength, and creep resistance.

[0179] The sleeve 371 is formed into a cylindrical shape, for example, from metal, and holds the valve seal 36 at one end. The other end of the sleeve 371 is located inside one end of the tube 511. A spring 372 is provided between one end of the sleeve 371 and one end of the tube 511, applying force to the valve seal 36 and the sleeve 371 together toward the valve body 31. The sealing member 373 is formed into a ring shape, for example, from rubber, and is provided between one end of the tube 511 and the outer peripheral wall of the sleeve 371, which can maintain a liquid seal between the tube 511 and the sleeve 371.

[0180] Sleeve 371 is made of stainless steel such as SUS430. Therefore, sleeve 371 has high corrosion resistance. In addition, SUS430 has good stamping properties, so sleeve 371 can be easily stamped.

[0181] The sealing units 35 located at outlet ports 222 and 223 have the same structure as the sealing unit 35 located at outlet port 221, so their description is omitted. The three sealing units 35 are respectively assembled at one end of the pipe sections 511, 512, and 513.

[0182] The sleeve 371, spring 372, and valve seal 36 of the sealing unit 35 located at outlet ports 222 and 223 have smaller outer diameters compared to those of the sealing unit 35 located at outlet port 221. Here, the spring load of the spring 372 of each sealing unit 35 located at outlet ports 221 to 223 is set to satisfy the necessary leakage amount to compress the valve seal 36 and achieve a seal. The spring 372 of each sealing unit 35 located at outlet ports 221 to 223 varies in size depending on the leakage target, and therefore the spring constant also varies accordingly.

[0183] Spring 372 is made of stainless steel such as SUS316. Therefore, spring 372 has good elasticity and high corrosion resistance. As a result, stress corrosion cracking of spring 372 can be suppressed.

[0184] The partition wall 60 is formed, for example, of resin. The partition wall 60 is formed separately from the housing body 21. The partition wall 60 includes a partition wall body 61, etc. The partition wall body 61 is formed in a generally circular plate shape. The partition wall 60 is provided on the housing body 21 in such a way that the partition wall body 61 blocks the housing opening 210. The partition wall 60 has a shaft insertion hole 62 that extends through the center of the partition wall body 61 in the thickness direction. The valve 30 is provided such that one end of the shaft 32 is inserted through the shaft insertion hole 62. One end of the shaft 32 is supported by the partition wall body 61, and the other end is supported by the housing body 21.

[0185] The drive unit cover 80 is located on the side opposite to the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, forming a drive unit space 800 between it and the partition wall 60.

[0186] The drive unit 70 is disposed in the drive unit space 800 and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via one end of the shaft 32. The drive unit 70 includes a motor 71, a gear unit 72, etc. The gear unit 72 is connected to one end of the shaft 32. When the ECU 8 controls the power supply to the motor 71, the driving force of the motor 71 is transmitted to the shaft 32 via the gear unit 72. As a result, the valve body 31 is driven to rotate.

[0187] like Figure 5 As shown, an overflow valve 39 is provided at the overflow port 224. Under specified conditions, such as when the temperature of the cooling water reaches a specified temperature or higher, the overflow valve 39 opens, allowing communication between the internal space 200 of the overflow port 224 and the external space of the housing body 21, i.e., the inner space of the pipe section 515. When the temperature of the cooling water becomes lower than the specified temperature, the above-mentioned communication is disconnected.

[0188] like Figure 5 As shown, the relief valve 39 is positioned opposite the inlet port 220, sandwiching the valve space 400 in the middle. That is, the relief valve 39 is positioned so that it can be visually seen from the inlet port 220. More specifically, at least a portion of the relief valve 39 can be visually seen when viewed axially from the inlet port 220.

[0189] Therefore, the cooling water flowing into the internal space 200 from the inlet port 220 can directly impact the overflow valve 39, and the overflow valve 39 can be opened quickly according to the temperature of the cooling water.

[0190] like Figure 3 , Figure 6As shown, the partition wall 60 has a C-shaped limiting recess 63 that is recessed from the side of the internal space 200 of the partition wall body 61 towards the drive unit 70. A limiting portion 631 is formed between the circumferential ends of the limiting recess 63. Figure 3 , Figure 6 As shown, the valve body 31 has a first limiting protrusion 332 and a second limiting protrusion 342 extending from the end face of the drive portion 70 towards the limiting recess 63 and having their front ends located within the limiting recess 63. Therefore, the rotation of the valve body 31 is limited when the first limiting protrusion 332 abuts against the limiting portion 631 and when the second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the limiting portion 631. That is, the valve body 31 can rotate within a range from the position where the first limiting protrusion 332 abuts against the limiting portion 631 to the position where the second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the limiting portion 631.

[0191] The valve assembly 10 is installed on the engine 2 with its inlet port 220 connected to the outlet of the water jacket 3. Therefore, cooling water flowing into the internal space 200 from the inlet port 220 flows through the valve space 400 into the valve body flow path 300. Furthermore, by rotating the valve body 31, when the valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 overlap with the respective sealing openings 360, cooling water flows from the valve body flow path 300 through the valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 to the equipment 7, heater 6, and radiator 5, corresponding to their overlapping area.

[0192] ECU8 controls the operation of motor 71 and the rotation position of valve body 31, thereby enabling coolant to flow to device 7 for heat exchange. This cools the engine oil and EGR gas, improving fuel efficiency. Furthermore, by allowing coolant to flow to heater 6, heat exchange occurs between the air and coolant inside vehicle 1, thus warming the interior of vehicle 1.

[0193] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the relationship between the rotational position of the valve body 31 (horizontal axis) and the opening / closing states of the valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 (vertical axis), specifically the overlapping areas of the valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 and the respective sealing openings 360. Here, the overlapping areas of the valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 and the respective sealing openings 360 correspond to the flow path area of ​​the cooling water to the device 7, heater 6, and radiator 5.

[0194] ECU8 selects a "normal mode" for use when there is a request to allow cooling water to flow to heater 6 (heater request) and a "heater cut-off mode" for use when there is no heater request, causing valve body 31 to rotate. In both the "normal mode" and "heater cut-off mode," all valve body openings 430, 420, and 410 are closed by the outer peripheral wall of valve body 31 (fully closed state: see reference). Figure 3 The region (region d) is where the flow of cooling water to equipment 7, heater 6, and radiator 5 is zero. In region d, the flow of cooling water to equipment 7, heater 6, and radiator 5 is interrupted.

[0195] In "normal mode," water is supplied to heater 6 with the highest priority. Figure 7 If valve body 31 is rotated to the right from region d, the rotational position of valve body 31 shifts to region c (adjacent to region d). In region c, valve body opening 420 begins to open, and cooling water begins to flow into heater 6. If valve body 31 is rotated further, valve body opening 420 fully opens, and the rotational position of valve body 31 shifts to region b (adjacent to region c). In region b, valve body opening 430 begins to open, and cooling water begins to flow into device 7. If valve body 31 is rotated further, valve body opening 430 fully opens, and the rotational position of valve body 31 shifts to region a (adjacent to region b). In region a, valve body opening 410 begins to open, and cooling water begins to flow into radiator 5. If valve body 31 is rotated further, valve body opening 410 fully opens (fully open state). Furthermore, when the valve body 31 is fully open (valve body opening 410), its rotational position corresponds to the rotation limit of the valve body 31. At this time, the first limiting protrusion 332 abuts against the limiting portion 631 (see reference). Figure 6 ).

[0196] In the "heater cut-off mode," water is not supplied to heater 6; water supply to device 7 takes priority over radiator 5. Figure 7 If valve body 31 is rotated to the left from region d, it moves to region e (adjacent to region d). In region e, valve body opening 430 begins to open, and cooling water begins to flow into device 7. If valve body 31 is rotated further, valve body opening 430 fully opens, and the rotation position of valve body 31 moves to region f (adjacent to region e). In region f, only valve body opening 430 is open, and cooling water flows only into device 7. If valve body 31 is rotated further, the rotation position of valve body 31 moves to region g (adjacent to region f). In region g, valve body opening 410 begins to open, and cooling water begins to flow into radiator 5. If valve body 31 is rotated further, valve body opening 410 fully opens. ECU8 is based on... Figure 7 The “normal mode” and “heater cut-off mode” shown drive the valve body 31 to rotate, thereby achieving a balance between fuel consumption and air conditioning performance.

[0197] like Figure 2As shown, the engine 2 is equipped with an intake manifold 11, an alternator 12, a water pump 4, a compressor 13, a starter 14, a transmission 15, etc. A valve device 10 is installed in the engine 2 within a narrow space A1 between the alternator 12 and the intake manifold 11. Here, the valve device 10 is installed in the engine 2 with the drive section 70 facing downwards in the vertical direction. Therefore, steam and other air generated in the internal space 200, etc., move upwards in the vertical direction and are discharged to the storage tank via the pipe 516.

[0198] like Figure 2 As shown, a narrow space A1 for configuring the valve device 10 is formed between the alternator 12 and the intake manifold 11 of the engine 2, which are arranged horizontally. Furthermore, a compressor 13 is configured on the lower side of the narrow space A1 in the vertical direction. Therefore, the valve device 10 disposed in the narrow space A1 is surrounded by the alternator 12, the intake manifold 11, and the compressor 13.

[0199] <1-2> Shell connecting hole

[0200] like Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 As shown, the housing 20 has fastening portions 231, 232, and 233 integrally formed with the housing body 21. The fastening portions 231, 232, and 233 protrude from their ends on the mounting surface 201 side of the housing body 21 toward the surface of the mounting surface 201. Furthermore, the housing 20 has fastening holes 241, 242, and 243 formed corresponding to the fastening portions 231, 232, and 233, respectively. Here, the fastening holes 241, 242, and 243 correspond to the "first fastening hole," "second fastening hole," and "third fastening hole," respectively.

[0201] The connecting member 240 is inserted through the connecting holes 241, 242, and 243, and is tightly connected to the engine 2. Thus, the valve device 10 is installed to the engine 2. An annular rubber port seal member 209 is provided radially outward of the inlet port 220 of the mounting surface 201. When the valve device 10 is installed to the engine 2, the port seal member 209 is compressed by the axial force of the connecting member 240. Therefore, the port seal member 209 maintains a liquid seal between the mounting surface 201 and the engine 2, preventing cooling water leakage from the inlet port 220 through the mounting surface 201 and the engine 2.

[0202] The port seal 209 is formed of rubber such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber). This reduces costs. Alternatively, the port seal 209 can also be formed of H-NBR, for example. In this case, the oil resistance of the port seal 209 can be improved. Furthermore, the port seal 209 can also be formed of FKM, for example. In this case, the water resistance and heat resistance of the port seal 209 can be improved. Therefore, it is suitable for use as an engine part that is easily affected by heat.

[0203] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 As shown, a connecting hole 241 is formed radially outward of the opening of the inlet port 220 of the mounting surface 201. A connecting hole 242 is formed between the connecting hole 241 and the opening of the inlet port 220. A connecting hole 243 is formed on the drive section 70 side relative to the connecting holes 241 and 242.

[0204] <1-2>

[0205] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of the vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, and a drive unit 70.

[0206] The housing 20 includes: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; a mounting surface 201 formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21 and facing the engine 2 when mounted on the engine 2; an inlet port 220 that opens on the mounting surface 201 and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21; a plurality of fastening portions (231, 232, 233) integrally formed with the housing body 21; and a plurality of fastening holes (241, 242, 243) formed corresponding to the plurality of fastening portions.

[0207] The valve 30 includes: a valve body 31, which is rotatable about a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200; an internal flow path 300 formed on the inner side of the valve body 31, which is connected to an inlet port 220; and a shaft 32 disposed on the rotation axis Axr1.

[0208] The partition 60 separates the interior space 200 from the exterior of the housing body 21.

[0209] The drive unit 70 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition unit 60, and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via the shaft 32.

[0210] The housing body 21 is fixed to the engine 2 by a fastening member 240 that is screwed into the engine 2 through fastening holes (241, 242, 243).

[0211] The connecting holes include a first connecting hole (241) formed radially outside the opening of the inlet port 220, a second connecting hole (242) formed between the first connecting hole and the opening of the inlet port 220, and a third connecting hole (243) formed on the drive section 70 side relative to the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole.

[0212] The first connecting hole (241) is formed, like the third connecting hole (243), on the side closer to the drive section 70 than the center of the inlet port 220.

[0213] Therefore, when a port sealing member 209, which is composed of an annular elastic member, is provided around the inlet port 220, the port sealing member 209 can be compressed evenly and well when the housing body 21 is fixed to the engine 2 by the connecting member 240 passing through the connecting holes 241 and 242. As a result, the sealing around the inlet port 220 can be effectively ensured.

[0214] Furthermore, by fixing the connecting part 233 to the engine 2 with the connecting member 240 passing through the connecting hole 243, the effect of the vibration of the engine 2 on the drive part 70 can be suppressed.

[0215] <1-2-1>

[0216] The center Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220 is located on the first straight line Li1, which connects the connecting hole 241 and the connecting hole 242.

[0217] Therefore, the port sealing component 209 can be compressed more evenly.

[0218] In this embodiment, the first straight line Li1 connects the center of the connecting hole 241 to the center of the connecting hole 242. In other embodiments, the first straight line Li1 may also connect any point other than the center of the connecting hole 241 to any point other than the center of the connecting hole 242.

[0219] <1-2-2>

[0220] The distance between the center Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220 and the connecting hole 241 is the same as the distance between the center Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220 and the connecting hole 242.

[0221] Connecting holes 241 and 242 are positioned opposite each other, sandwiching the inlet port 220.

[0222] Therefore, the port sealing component 209 can be compressed more evenly.

[0223] <1-2-3>

[0224] The distance between the connecting hole 243 and the drive unit 70 is shorter than the distance between the connecting hole 243 and the center Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220.

[0225] Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the impact of engine 2 vibration on drive unit 70.

[0226] <1-2-4>

[0227] The connecting hole 243 is formed such that its center is located on the drive section 70 side relative to the imaginary plane Vp2, which passes through the center of the outlet port 223 and is orthogonal to the rotation axis Axr1 (see reference). Figure 8 Additionally, the motor 71 is configured such that, when viewed axially from the connecting hole 243, the center of gravity Cg1 is located on the side of the connecting hole 243 relative to the rotation axis Axr1 (see reference). Figure 8 , Figure 9 ).

[0228] Therefore, it is possible to further suppress the impact of engine 2 vibration on drive unit 70.

[0229] <1-3>

[0230] The connecting holes 241 and 242 are formed symmetrically with respect to the center point Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220.

[0231] Connecting hole 241 and connecting hole 242 are on concentric circles.

[0232] Therefore, the port sealing component 209 can be compressed more evenly.

[0233] <1-3-1>

[0234] The closely connected holes 241 and 242, which are symmetrical about the center point Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220, are formed such that a straight line perpendicular to the opening surface of the inlet port 220 and passing through the center point Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220 passes through the rotation axis Axr1.

[0235] The closely connected holes 241 and 242, which are symmetrical about the center point Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220, are formed such that "a straight line perpendicular to the opening surface of the inlet port 220 and passing through the center point Cp1 of the opening of the inlet port 220" passes through the rotation axis Axr1.

[0236] Therefore, the port sealing component 209 can be compressed more evenly.

[0237] <1-4>

[0238] The housing 20 has positioning portions 205 and 206 formed on the mounting surface 201, which can be used to position the housing body 21 by engaging with other components. The positioning portions 205 and 206 are formed as circular recesses from the mounting surface 201. Here, the positioning portions 205 and 206 correspond to "first positioning portion" and "second positioning portion," respectively. Furthermore, the aforementioned other components correspond to, for example, a pallet used in the manufacturing process of the valve device 10, or an engine 2 that is the object to which the valve device 10 is mounted. By engaging the positioning portions 205 and 206 with protrusions formed on the pallet or engine 2, the housing body 21 can be positioned relative to the pallet or engine 2.

[0239] A positioning part 205 is formed radially outside the opening of the inlet port 220. A positioning part 206 is formed between the positioning part 205 and the opening of the inlet port 220.

[0240] Therefore, the housing body 21 can be precisely positioned during the manufacturing process, improving machining accuracy. Furthermore, when installed in the engine 2, the housing body 21 can be precisely positioned, enabling high-precision control of the cooling water flowing through the valve device 10. Moreover, after installation in the engine 2, the housing body 21 remains stable relative to the engine 2, improving the sealing performance of the port sealing component 209.

[0241] <1-4-1>

[0242] Positioning part 205 and positioning part 206 are formed such that the straight line connecting positioning part 205 and positioning part 206, i.e. the second straight line Li2, is orthogonal to the first straight line Li1 connecting the connecting hole 241 and the connecting hole 242.

[0243] Therefore, the position of the housing body 21 relative to the engine 2 can be made more stable.

[0244] <1-4-2>

[0245] The center of the first line Li1 coincides with the center of the second line Li2.

[0246] Therefore, the position of the housing body 21 relative to the engine 2 can be made more stable.

[0247] like Figure 9As shown, the mounting surface 201 is formed on the side of the housing body 21 and the connecting portions 231-233 opposite to the pipe member 50, and includes a generally rectangular portion, three portions extending from the rectangular portion in the width direction, and a curved portion along the outer periphery of the inlet port 220. Positioning portions 205 and 206 are formed on the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201. The positioning portions 205 and 206 are stable while maintaining a distance. Therefore, the positioning portions 205 and 206 are provided on the outer periphery of the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201.

[0248] <1-5>

[0249] The housing 20 has a mounting surface recess 207 that is recessed from the mounting surface 201 to the opposite side of the engine 2.

[0250] Therefore, the heat from the engine 2 can be insulated by the mounting surface recess 207, suppressing the influence of heat from the engine 2 on the drive unit 70.

[0251] <1-5-1>

[0252] Multiple mounting surface recesses 207 are formed, and inter-recession ribs 208 are formed between the multiple mounting surface recesses 207.

[0253] Therefore, the heat of the engine 2 can be insulated by the mounting surface recess 207, and the contact area between the mounting surface 201 and the engine 2 can be ensured.

[0254] like Figure 9 As shown, the mounting surface recess 207 has a rectangular recess 275 and a trapezoidal recess 276 that is generally trapezoidal. The inter-recess rib 208 has a short rib 285 that extends in the shorter direction of the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201 and a long rib 286 that extends in the longer direction.

[0255] On the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201, opposite to the drive section 70 with respect to the inlet port 220, two trapezoidal recesses 276 are formed in the shorter direction. Opposite to these trapezoidal recesses 276, on the side opposite to the inlet port 220, two rectangular recesses 275 are formed in the shorter direction. A short-direction rib 285 is formed between the rectangular recesses 275 and the trapezoidal recesses 276. A long-direction rib 286 is formed between the two trapezoidal recesses 276 and between the two rectangular recesses 275. The trapezoidal recesses 276 are smaller than the rectangular recesses 275.

[0256] On the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201, on the side relative to the inlet port 220 and closer to the drive section 70, two rectangular recesses 275 are arranged in the shorter direction. On the side opposite to the inlet port 220, two more rectangular recesses 275 are arranged in the shorter direction. A short-direction rib 285 is formed between the rectangular recesses 275 arranged in the longer direction. A long-direction rib 286 is formed between the rectangular recesses 275 arranged in the shorter direction.

[0257] The distance between the short rib 285 formed on the side opposite to the drive unit 70 in the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201 and the inlet port 220 is smaller than the distance between the short rib 285 formed on the side of the drive unit 70 in the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201 and the inlet port 220.

[0258] Two trapezoidal recesses 276 are formed on the mounting surface 201 of the connecting portions 231 to 233. A short rib 285 is formed between the two trapezoidal recesses 276 in the connecting portions 231 to 233.

[0259] On the outer edge of the generally rectangular portion of the mounting surface 201, an outer peripheral rib 287 is formed that surrounds the mounting surface recess 207.

[0260] On the outer edge of the mounting surface 201 of the connecting portions 231 to 233, an outer peripheral rib 287 is formed that surrounds the mounting surface recess 207.

[0261] The mounting surface recesses 207 are formed independently of each other. The inter-recessive ribs 208 and the outer peripheral ribs 287 between the mounting surface recesses 207 can improve the robustness of the engine 2 to vibration.

[0262] The elongated rib 286 extends in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1. That is, when viewed axially from the inlet port 220, the elongated rib 286 overlaps with the rotation axis Axr1 (see reference). Figure 9 Therefore, deformation in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be suppressed. If such deformation occurs, it is possible for parts inside the valve device 10 to shift, causing leakage of cooling water to the inside and outside, and degrading the function of the valve device 10. This embodiment can suppress such problems.

[0263] In this embodiment, the size ratio of the mounting surface recess 207 to the mounting surface 201 is 5 to 9.5%.

[0264] By placing the mounting surface recess 207 on the opposite side of the internal space 200 of the valve 30, the inner wall of the space of the valve 30 becomes of uniform thickness, and the spatial accuracy of the internal space 200 is improved. With good spatial accuracy of the internal space 200, the wall resistance is reduced, which can reduce pressure loss.

[0265] <1-1-5-1>

[0266] The shell body 21 is formed of polyphenylene sulfide resin (PPS) containing filler. More specifically, the shell body 21 is formed of "PPS-GF50" (PPS: 50%, glass fiber: 50%). As filler, carbon fiber, silica, talc, silicon, etc. can be used.

[0267] Therefore, it can improve the heat resistance, water absorption resistance, strength, and dimensional accuracy of the shell body 21.

[0268] The glass content relative to resin in the main body 21 of the housing can be in the range of 20% to 80%.

[0269] The valve body 31, the housing body 21, and the partition 60 are all formed of PPS.

[0270] By forming the valve body 31, housing body 21, and partition wall 60 with the same resin material, differential linear expansion can be eliminated, reducing the likelihood of jamming. If there is a differential linear expansion between the components, cooling water leakage may occur. This embodiment can suppress such problems.

[0271] By forming the valve body 31, the housing body 21, and the partition wall 60 with PPS, the strength, heat resistance, and chemical resistance of the valve body 31, the housing body 21, and the partition wall 60 can be improved.

[0272] The tube component 50 is formed, for example, from PPA (polyphthalamide). Thus, the tube component 50 can be formed by forceful demolding.

[0273] The coefficient of linear expansion of the valve body 31, housing body 21, and partition 60 formed of PPS is smaller than that of the pipe component 50 formed of PPA. Therefore, the effects of heat on strain and assembly can be reduced.

[0274] In other embodiments, the valve body 31, the housing body 21, and the partition 60 may also be formed of PPA.

[0275] <1-6>

[0276] like Figure 9 As shown, the connecting portion 233, which has a connecting hole 243 as the third connecting hole, is formed at a position adjacent to the partition wall portion 60.

[0277] Therefore, the vibration of the drive unit 70 can be reduced.

[0278] <1-7>

[0279] like Figure 9 As shown, the connecting portions 231, 232, and 233 have a mounting surface 201 on the engine 2 side and a mounting surface recess 207 that is recessed from the mounting surface 201 toward the opposite side of the engine 2.

[0280] Therefore, the thickness of the connecting portions 231, 232, and 233 can be made uniform. As a result, voids can be prevented, and the decrease in resin strength around the shell at the connecting holes 241, 242, and 243 of the connecting portions 231, 232, and 233 can be suppressed. Furthermore, even if the thin wall around the shell breaks first due to vibration from the engine 2, the presence of the mounting surface recess 207 can prevent the breakage from reaching the internal space 200.

[0281] <1-8>

[0282] like Figure 9 As shown, the housing 20 has: positioning portions 205 and 206 formed on the mounting surface 201, which can be used to position the housing body 21 by engaging with other components; and recessed ribs 208 formed between a plurality of mounting surface recesses 207. The positioning portions 205 and 206 are formed at the grid points 204 of the recessed ribs 208.

[0283] Therefore, the main body 21 of the housing can be stably positioned.

[0284] <1-9>

[0285] like Figure 9 As shown, the housing 20 has positioning portions 205 and 206 formed on the mounting surface 201, which can be used to position the housing body 21 by engaging with other components. One connecting portion (231) is formed on one side of the housing body 21 in the width direction, and two portions (232 and 233) are formed on the other side of the housing body 21 in the width direction. The positioning portion 205 is formed on one side of the housing body 21 in the width direction where one connecting portion (231) is formed. Here, the width direction of the housing body 21 is the direction corresponding to the shorter direction of the housing body 21 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0286] Therefore, on the side with only one of the three closely connected parts, the positioning part 205 is made to have four holes, thereby ensuring the balance of the housing body 21 in both the left and right directions (width direction).

[0287] <1-10>

[0288] like Figure 9As shown, the inlet port 220 is formed between the connecting portion 233, which is furthest from the inlet port 220, and the positioning portion 205 among the multiple connecting portions.

[0289] Therefore, it is possible to further ensure the balance of the shell body 21 in the left and right directions (width direction).

[0290] <2-1> Drive Unit S / A

[0291] like Figure 11 As shown, a partition wall 60 is provided at the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and can support the shaft 32. A drive unit cover 80 is provided on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, forming a drive unit space 800 between it and the partition wall 60. A drive unit 70 is provided in the drive unit space 800, and can rotate the valve body 31 via the shaft 32.

[0292] <2-1>

[0293] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, a drive unit cover 80, and a drive unit 70.

[0294] The housing 20 has a housing body 21 that forms an internal space 200 on the inside, ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21, and a housing opening 210 that connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0295] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) connecting the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1. The valve body 30 can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path 300 through the valve body opening (410, 420, 430) and the ports (220, 221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0296] The partition 60 is provided in the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and can support the shaft 32.

[0297] The drive unit cover 80 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, forming a drive unit space 800 between it and the partition wall 60.

[0298] The drive unit 70 is located in the drive unit space 800 and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via the shaft 32.

[0299] In this embodiment, no joint or other components are required between the drive unit 70 and the shaft 32. Therefore, the structure near the drive unit 70 can be simplified.

[0300] Furthermore, by sharing the partition wall 60 as both a component supporting the shaft 32 and a component housing the drive unit 70, the coaxial accuracy of the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 can be improved. Additionally, the number of components can be reduced.

[0301] like Figure 11 As shown, the portion inside the limiting recess 63 in the surface of the partition body 61 on the side of the internal space 200 is located slightly closer to the internal space 200 side than the portion outside the limiting recess 63.

[0302] The inner periphery of the shell body 21, which is opposite to the partition body 61, has a stepped shape.

[0303] The gap between the partition wall body 61, where the annular sealing member 600 is provided, and the housing opening 210 is formed in a conical shape. This allows the annular sealing member 600 to be easily positioned within this gap. If engine oil enters this gap, the annular sealing member 600 may become wetted, expand, and break, resulting in coolant leakage. Furthermore, if the annular sealing member 600 engages, it may break, causing coolant leakage and engine oil to enter from the outside. In this embodiment, this problem can be suppressed.

[0304] <2-1-1>

[0305] The valve device 10 also includes an annular sealing member 600 disposed between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall 60, which is capable of maintaining the housing opening 210 and the partition wall 60 in a liquid-tight manner. The annular sealing member 600 is formed into an annular shape, for example, from an elastic material such as rubber.

[0306] The inner wall of the housing opening 210 is formed into a cylindrical shape. The partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall portion body 61 located inside the housing opening 210 and whose outer wall is formed into a cylindrical shape. An annular sealing member 600 is provided between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall portion body 61. The difference between the inner diameter of the housing opening 210 and the outer diameter of the partition wall portion body 61 is smaller than the difference between the inner diameter and the outer diameter of the annular sealing member 600 in its free state. As a result, the annular sealing member 600 is compressed radially between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall portion body 61.

[0307] like Figure 11As shown, annular stepped opening surfaces 604, 605, and 606 are formed at the opening 210 of the housing. These stepped opening surfaces 604, 605, and 606 are formed sequentially from the inner space 200 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 toward the drive unit 70 side. The stepped opening surfaces 604 and 606 are formed in annular planar shapes. The stepped opening surface 605 is formed in a conical shape, so that it approaches the rotation axis Axr1 as it moves from the drive unit 70 side toward the inner space 200 side.

[0308] On the outer edge of the main body 61 of the partition wall, annular partition wall step surfaces 611 and 612 are formed. The partition wall step surface 611 and the opening step surface 604 are opposite each other and form an annular planar shape. The partition wall step surface 612 and the opening step surfaces 605 and 606 are opposite each other and form an annular planar shape.

[0309] The annular sealing component 600 is disposed between the opening step surface 604 and the partition wall step surface 611.

[0310] <2-2>

[0311] The annular sealing member 600 is compressed radially between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall 60.

[0312] Therefore, by adjusting the shaft 32 with the annular sealing component 600, the positional accuracy of the valve body 31 and the detection accuracy of the rotation angle sensor 86 (described later) can be improved.

[0313] The center of the inner peripheral wall of the annular sealing member 600 coincides with the center of the outer peripheral wall. Therefore, the shaft 32 can be effectively aligned by the annular sealing member 600.

[0314] Furthermore, the force acting axially on the fixing member 830 described later can be reduced, and the number of fixing members 830 can be reduced.

[0315] When water pressure is applied, a force acts in the direction that lifts the partition wall body 61, causing the drive unit 70 to be lifted. As a result, the fixing member 830 is lifted. However, in this embodiment, due to the annular seal, the annular sealing member 600 is in an extended state, making it difficult for the partition wall body 61 to move under sliding resistance. Therefore, the force acting on the fixing member 830 in the axial direction can be reduced.

[0316] <2-2-1>

[0317] An axial clearance SAx is formed between the annular sealing member 600 and the housing body 21 in the axial direction.

[0318] Therefore, the annular sealing member 600 can be compressed more effectively in the radial direction between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall 60.

[0319] If the axial clearance SAx is small, the annular seal member 600 becomes elongated. In this case, a force is generated in the axial direction of the annular seal member 600. To prevent this, it is necessary to ensure that the force is generated only in the radial direction of the annular seal member 600. As such, in this embodiment, the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the annular seal member 600 to the cross-sectional area of ​​the axial clearance SAx in a cross-section of the plane containing the shaft of the annular seal member 600 is less than 1.

[0320] <2-3>

[0321] The valve device 10 also includes a fixing member 830 that can fix the housing body 21 and the drive cover 80 when the partition 60 is clamped between the housing body 21 and the drive cover 80.

[0322] Therefore, the stable position of the partition 60 can improve the axial accuracy of the valve body 31.

[0323] In this embodiment, the end of the shaft 32 opposite to the drive unit 70 is a sliding bearing (see reference). Figure 3 If the shaft accuracy deteriorates, the sliding resistance increases. On the other hand, the spring 372 pushes the valve seal 36 against the valve body 31. If the shaft accuracy is good, the force required for the spring 372 to push the valve seal 36 is smaller. Furthermore, if the shaft misaligns, cooling water may leak between the valve body 31 and the valve seal 36, resulting in slower heating and poorer fuel consumption. However, if the shaft accuracy is good, such problems can be prevented.

[0324] Furthermore, the partition wall 60 and the drive cover 80 can be assembled into the housing body 21 in one go, which simplifies the assembly process. In addition, the number of fixing parts can be reduced.

[0325] The fixing member 830, for example, is a screw that passes through the cover fastening hole 831 formed in the drive unit cover 80 and engages with the fastening hole in the housing body 21. Thus, the drive unit cover 80 is fixed to the housing body 21 with the partition wall portion 60 sandwiched between it and the housing body 21. Furthermore, multiple cover fastening holes are formed in the drive unit cover 80, each through which a fixing member 830 is inserted. Additionally, a rubber annular cover sealing member 809 is provided between the outer edge of the drive unit cover 80 and the partition wall portion 60. Thus, the drive unit space 800 is maintained as airtight and liquidtight.

[0326] <2-4>

[0327] like Figure 11As shown, the partition wall 60 has a shaft insertion hole 62 through which one end of the shaft 32 can be inserted. The valve device 10 has a metal ring 601, which is inserted into the partition wall 60 at the shaft insertion hole 62. The metal ring 601 is formed into a ring shape from metal and is coaxially arranged with the shaft insertion hole 62. The valve device 10 has a bearing portion 602 provided inside the metal ring 601 to support one end of the shaft 32. The bearing portion 602 is, for example, a ball bearing, and is pressed into the inside of the metal ring 601.

[0328] Therefore, it is possible to suppress the situation where the bearing portion 602 cannot be maintained due to the difference in linear expansion between the resin (partition wall 60) and the metal (bearing portion 602) and resin deterioration, and thus maintain the shaft support accuracy of the shaft 32.

[0329] <2-5>

[0330] like Figure 12 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall recess 64 that is recessed radially outward from the drive cover 80 side of the metal ring 601 from the surface 609 on the drive cover 80 side to the opposite side of the drive cover 80. Here, the surface 609 is a planar portion formed on the drive cover 80 side of the partition wall portion 60 on the same plane as the end face of the drive cover 80 side of the metal ring 601.

[0331] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing a cross-section of the plane containing the rotation axis Axr1. Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing "the plane containing the rotation axis Axr1 and perpendicular to the axis Axm1 of the motor 71". Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view showing "the plane containing the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 and parallel to the rotation shaft Axr1". Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view showing "the plane containing the rotation axis Axr1 and parallel to the axis Axm1 of the motor 71".

[0332] Therefore, it is possible to suppress shrinkage or warping during the integral molding of the partition wall portion 60 and deformation caused by the pressing of the bearing portion 602. As a result, the dimensional accuracy of the outer peripheral portion of the partition wall portion 60 can be improved, and the axial accuracy of the valve body 31 can be improved.

[0333] <2-6>

[0334] like Figure 12 As shown, the drive unit 70 has a motor 71 capable of rotating the shaft 32.

[0335] <2-7>

[0336] like Figure 12 , Figure 13 As shown, the valve device 10 also includes an elastic member 74 disposed between the motor 71 and the partition 60 in a compressed state. The elastic member 74 is formed, for example, of rubber.

[0337] Therefore, by utilizing the damping effect of the elastic component 74, the vibration acting on the motor 71 can be attenuated, poor contact can be suppressed, and the working condition of the motor 71 can be maintained well.

[0338] Vibration of the motor 71 may cause sliding resistance due to movement of the partition 60, resulting in poor fuel economy. Furthermore, vibration of the motor 71 may cause output deviation of the rotation angle sensor 86 (described later), also leading to poor fuel economy. In this embodiment, the vibration of the motor 71 is suppressed by the elastic member 74, thereby preventing the aforementioned problems from occurring.

[0339] Furthermore, it simplifies the assembly of motor 71 and reduces the number of parts.

[0340] like Figure 12 As shown, the elastic member 74 is provided between the partition body 61 and the motor 71, and applies force to the partition body 61 toward the internal space 200.

[0341] Therefore, the elastic member 74 can suppress the situation where the partition body 61 floats due to the water pressure of the cooling water on the internal space 200 side. As a result, it is possible to prevent cooling water leakage and prevent overheating of the vehicle 1 caused by such leakage.

[0342] <2-8>

[0343] like Figure 14 , Figure 15 As shown, the motor 71 is configured such that shaft Axm1 is orthogonal to shaft Axs1 of shaft 32. More precisely, shafts Axm1 and Axs1 are orthogonal in a torsional relationship.

[0344] Therefore, it can improve the freedom of mounting the tube component 50.

[0345] Furthermore, the volume of the housing body 21 in the width direction can be reduced, allowing the valve device 10 to be mounted in a confined space.

[0346] In addition, it can keep the electrical components around the motor 71 away from the cooling water (internal space 200), reducing the risk of short circuits caused by water getting wet.

[0347] Furthermore, by keeping the motor 71 away from the cooling water (internal space 200), thermal damage to the motor 71 can be suppressed.

[0348] <2-9>

[0349] like Figure 15 , Figure 16As shown, the motor 71 includes a motor body 710, a motor shaft 711, a worm gear 712, and a motor side terminal 713. The motor body 710 is generally cylindrical and contains a stator, coils, and a rotor (not shown). The motor shaft 711 is integrally provided with the rotor at the rotor's rotation axis, with one end protruding from the axial end of the motor body 710. The driving force of the motor 71 is output from the motor shaft 711. Here, the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 is aligned with the shaft 711. The motor 71 is configured such that the shaft Axm1 is parallel to the surface 808 of the drive housing 80 facing the partition wall 60 (see reference). Figure 16 ).

[0350] A worm gear 712 is located at one end of the motor shaft 711 and can rotate integrally with the motor shaft 711. The motor-side terminal 713 is, for example, formed from metal in an elongated plate shape. Two motor-side terminals 713 protrude from the end of the motor body 710 opposite to the worm gear 712, and the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 is sandwiched between them. Here, the two motor-side terminals 713 are arranged parallel to each other in the planar direction. The end of the motor-side terminal 713 within the motor body 710 is electrically connected to a coil.

[0351] like Figure 16 , Figure 17 As shown, the valve device 10 also includes power supply terminals 85. The power supply terminals 85 are, for example, U-shaped flat plates made of metal, and are insert-formed into the drive housing 80 with the end facing the partition wall 60. Two power supply terminals 85 are provided, with the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 sandwiched between them. Here, the two power supply terminals 85 are located on the same plane. The two motor-side terminals 713 of the motor 71 respectively engage with the terminal openings 851 of the two power supply terminals 85, and are electrically connected to the power supply terminals 85.

[0352] like Figure 12 As shown, the drive unit cover 80 has a connector section 84. The connector section 84 has a terminal 841 on its inner side. The terminal 841 is electrically connected to the power supply terminal 85. A wiring (not shown) is connected to the connector section 84. Thus, power is supplied from the vehicle 1's battery via the wiring, terminal 841, power supply terminal 85, and motor-side terminal 713.

[0353] Additionally, a rotation angle sensor 86 is provided on the rotation shaft Axr1 of the drive housing 80. The rotation angle sensor 86 is electrically connected to the ECU 8 via terminal 841 and wiring. The rotation angle sensor 86 outputs a signal to the ECU 8 corresponding to the rotation angle of the shaft 32. Thus, the ECU 8 can detect the rotational position of the valve body 31 and control the operation of the motor 71 based on the rotational position of the valve body 31.

[0354] As described above, the valve device 10 has a U-shaped power supply terminal 85, which is provided on the drive unit cover 80 with its open end (terminal opening 851) facing the partition wall 60 side, and through which current supplied to the motor 71 flows. The motor 71 has a motor-side terminal 713 at its axial end that connects to the opening (terminal opening 851) of the power supply terminal 85, and is provided with its shaft Axm1 parallel to the surface 808 of the drive unit cover 80 facing the partition wall 60 side.

[0355] Therefore, the motor 71 can be easily assembled to the drive housing 80 from one direction. In addition, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0356] <2-10>

[0357] like Figure 15 As shown, the gear section 72 includes a first gear 721, a second gear 722, and a third gear 723. The first gear 721 is configured to mesh with the worm gear 712 of the motor 71. The second gear 722 has a larger outer diameter than the first gear 721 and is configured to mesh with the first gear 721. The third gear 723 has a larger outer diameter than the second gear 722 and is located at one end of the shaft 32, meshing with the second gear 722. The third gear 723 is coaxially mounted with the shaft 32 and can rotate integrally with the shaft 32.

[0358] Gears 721, 722, and 723 are arranged with their shafts parallel to the shaft Axs1 of shaft 32, that is, orthogonal to the shaft Axm1 of motor 71. The driving force of motor 71 is transmitted to shaft 32 via worm gear 712, gears 721, 722, and 723.

[0359] like Figure 12 , Figure 18 As shown, the valve device 10 also includes a retaining member 73. The retaining member 73 has a snap-fit ​​portion 731 that can be snap-fitted to the drive housing 80. The retaining member 73 is snap-fitted to the drive housing 80 to retain the motor 71, the first gear 721 and the second gear 722 of the gear unit 72 between the retaining member 73 and the drive housing 80. Here, the elastic member 74 is provided in a compressed state between the motor body 710 and the retaining member 73.

[0360] As described above, the drive unit 70 has a gear unit 72 that can transmit the driving force of the motor 71 to the shaft 32. In addition, the valve device 10 also includes a retaining member 73, which has a snap-fit ​​portion 731 that can be snap-fitted to the drive unit cover 80, and retains the motor 71 and the gear unit 72 between itself and the drive unit cover 80.

[0361] Therefore, the motor 71 and gear 72 can be assembled toward the partition wall 60 while still held in the drive cover 80. Furthermore, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0362] <6-7>

[0363] like Figure 3 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall through hole 65 that extends outward from the shaft insertion hole 62 and opens on the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61. In addition, the housing 20 has a housing through hole 270 that extends outward from the inner wall of the housing opening portion 210 and opens on the outer wall of the housing body 21, and is able to communicate with the partition wall through hole 65.

[0364] Therefore, cooling water flowing from the internal space 200 through the shaft insertion hole 62 toward the drive unit 70 can flow into the partition wall through hole 65. This suppresses the flow of cooling water from the internal space 200 toward the drive unit 70. Furthermore, the cooling water flowing into the partition wall through hole 65 is discharged to the outside through the housing through hole 270.

[0365] In this embodiment, the housing through hole 270 is open on the mounting surface 201. That is, when the valve device 10 is installed on the engine 2, the housing through hole 270 is covered by the engine 2.

[0366] Therefore, cooling water leaking from the inside of the valve device 10 to the outside through the housing through-hole 270 can be captured at the mounting surface 201. As a result, significant cooling water leakage can be suppressed.

[0367] <6-22>

[0368] The housing through hole 270 is open on the mounting surface 201 side.

[0369] Therefore, it can prevent external water from entering the valve device 10 through the housing through hole 270 and the partition through hole 65.

[0370] Metal components such as power supply terminals 85 located in the drive section space 800 are post-plated onto portions of the plated components after pressure punching. This prevents corrosion of the metal components and reduces poor conductivity, even if cooling water enters the drive section space 800.

[0371] In the valve device 10 used to control the cooling water of the engine 2 as in this embodiment, the valve is affected by the heat of the cooling water. Therefore, when the thickness of the valve body 31 is uneven, the expansion rate varies depending on the thickness, and the valve body 31 as a whole may deform. Particularly in this embodiment, since the inlet port 220 where the cooling water flows in is opposite a portion of the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 31, the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is easily affected by heat.

[0372] <3-27>

[0373] Therefore, as Figure 3 As shown, the valve body 31 is formed such that at least the portion of its inner peripheral wall opposite to the inlet port 220 through which cooling water flows in, namely the opposing portion 310, is recessed outward. More specifically, the valve body 31 is formed such that at least the portion of its inner peripheral wall opposite to the inlet port 220 through which cooling water flows in, namely the opposing portion 310, is recessed outward.

[0374] In this way, if at least the opposing portion 310 in the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is recessed to a near-uniform thickness, the overall expansion rate of the valve body 31 will be near-uniform, thus preventing deformation of the valve body 31.

[0375] <3-28>

[0376] like Figure 3 As shown, the valve seal 36 abuts against at least the portion of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 corresponding to the opposing portion 310. More specifically, the valve seal 36 abuts against at least the portion of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 opposite to the opposing portion 310.

[0377] If the valve body 31 is deformed, the sealing performance of the valve seal 36 will deteriorate, and the heating performance will decrease. However, in this embodiment, the above structure can prevent the deformation of the valve body 31, especially the part corresponding to the opposing part 310, so the sealing performance of the valve seal 36 can be ensured and the heating performance can be improved.

[0378] <4-6>

[0379] The housing 20 has multiple ports (221-223). With the housing body 21 installed on the engine 2, the port 222 of the vehicle 1 connected to the heater 6 is formed among the multiple ports such that it is not located at the uppermost point in the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0380] Therefore, it can suppress the airflow in the cooling water to the heater 6 and suppress abnormal noises in the vehicle 1's interior.

[0381] (Second Implementation)

[0382] exist Figure 19 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0383] <2-11>

[0384] like Figure 19 As shown, the motor 71 is disposed in the drive section space 800 with the motor shaft 711 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 of the housing 20 and the worm gear 712 facing the opposite side of the mounting surface 201.

[0385] As described above, the motor 71 has a motor shaft 711 that outputs driving force and a worm gear 712 provided at the front end of the motor shaft 711, with the motor shaft 711 being perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 and the worm gear 712 facing the opposite side to the mounting surface 201.

[0386] Therefore, the gear height can be reduced, and the volume of the drive unit 70 can be reduced.

[0387] Furthermore, since the motor body 710 of the motor 71 can be positioned near the engine 2 (mounting surface 201), the vibration resistance of the motor 71 can be improved, and the vibration acting on the motor 71 is reduced, thereby improving robustness against wire breakage.

[0388] Furthermore, by using motor 71 and gear 72 as... Figure 19 As shown, the drive section space 800 is configured such that the width of the drive section 70 and the drive section cover 80 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, Dv1, is smaller than the width in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201, Dp1.

[0389] More specifically, such as Figure 19 As shown, the third gear 723 is positioned radially outward of the motor body 710, while the first gear 721 and the second gear 722 are positioned radially outward of the worm gear 712. This arrangement, with the larger outer diameter third gear 723 positioned near the mounting surface 201 and the first gear 721 and the second gear 722 positioned in the free space radially outward of the worm gear 712, reduces the volume of the drive unit 70 and the drive unit cover 80.

[0390] (Third Implementation)

[0391] exist Figure 20 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0392] <3-1> Spherical valve body

[0393] In the third embodiment, the arrangement of the ball valves 41, 42, 43, the cylindrical connecting portion 44, and the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45 of the valve body 31 at the shaft 32 differs from that in the first embodiment. For example... Figure 20 As shown, ball valve 41, cylindrical connecting part 44, ball valve 42, cylindrical valve connecting part 45, and ball valve 43 are arranged sequentially from the drive part 70 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 to the opposite side of the drive part 70.

[0394] In this embodiment, outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 are arranged sequentially from the drive section 70 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 to the opposite side of the drive section 70 and are formed in the housing body 21. Ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are respectively provided to open and close outlet ports 221, 222, and 223.

[0395] At least a portion of the outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 is formed into a spherical shape, and at least a portion of the inner peripheral wall is formed into an outward concavity.

[0396] <3-1>

[0397] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, and a valve seal 36.

[0398] The housing 20 has ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside.

[0399] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) connecting the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1. The valve body 300 can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path 300 through the valve body opening (410, 420, 430) and the ports (220, 221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0400] The valve seal 36 is formed in an annular shape and is provided at a position corresponding to the ports (220, 221, 222, 223) so that it can abut against the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31. A sealing opening 360 is formed on the inner side, which can communicate with the valve body opening (410, 420, 430) according to the rotational position of the valve body 31, so as to maintain a liquid tightness between it and the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31.

[0401] At least a portion of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is formed into a spherical shape, and at least a portion of the inner peripheral wall is formed into an outward concavity.

[0402] Therefore, the forming accuracy of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 can be improved. As a result, leakage of cooling water at the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 can be suppressed.

[0403] In addition, it can increase the flow area of ​​the flow path 300 inside the valve body, which can reduce the water flow resistance.

[0404] <3-2>

[0405] At least a portion of the inner peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 is formed into a spherical shape.

[0406] Therefore, at least a portion of the valve body 31 can be made to have a near-uniform thickness. This further improves the spherical accuracy of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and further increases the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 300 of the valve body.

[0407] <3-3>

[0408] In at least a portion of the rotation axis Axr1 direction and circumferential direction, the distance between the inner and outer peripheral walls of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 is the same. That is, the valve body 31 is formed such that its thickness is uniform (uniform thickness) at least in the aforementioned range.

[0409] Therefore, at least a portion of the valve body 31 can be made uniform in thickness. This further improves the spherical accuracy of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and further increases the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 300 of the valve body.

[0410] <3-4>

[0411] In the direction of rotation axis Axr1 and circumferential direction, the distance between the inner and outer peripheral walls of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 is the same in at least the range corresponding to the opening 360 of the sealing element.

[0412] Therefore, the thickness of the valve body 31 can be made uniform within the aforementioned range. This further improves the spherical accuracy of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31, thereby enhancing the sealing performance of the valve seal 36.

[0413] <3-4-1>

[0414] When the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 are in a fully closed state, with the entire sealing opening 360 blocked by the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31, the distance between the inner and outer peripheral walls is the same in at least the range corresponding to the sealing opening 360 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 and the circumferential direction.

[0415] "The range corresponding to the opening 360 of the seal" refers to the range that overlaps with the projection when the opening 360 of the seal is projected axially onto the valve seal 36.

[0416] Therefore, the sealing performance of the valve seal 36 in the fully closed state can be further improved.

[0417] <3-5>

[0418] The shaft 32 is integrally formed with the valve body 31 by insert molding.

[0419] Therefore, the controllability of valve body 31 can be improved.

[0420] In addition, it can reduce the amount of assembly work for shaft 32.

[0421] <3-6>

[0422] The valve body 31 has a first segment 33 and a second segment 34 divided into two by an imaginary plane Vp1 containing the rotation axis Axr1, and the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are joined at their respective mating surfaces 331 and 341.

[0423] Therefore, the valve body 31 can be manufactured with good precision by die slide injection (DSI) as described later.

[0424] <3-7>

[0425] like Figure 20 , Figure 23 As shown, the first dividing body 33 has a first limiting protrusion 332 extending from the partition wall portion 60 side towards the limiting recess 63, with its front end located in the limiting recess 63 (refer to the limiting recess 63 for details). Figure 3 , Figure 6 The second partition 34 has a second limiting protrusion 342 extending from the partition wall 60 side toward the limiting recess 63 side, with its front end located in the limiting recess 63.

[0426] Therefore, the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 abut against the limiting portion 631 of the limiting recess 63, thereby limiting the rotation of the valve body 31. Here, since the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 are formed on the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 respectively, when the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 abut against the limiting portion 631 of the limiting recess 63, the separation (peeling) of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the mating surfaces 331 and 341 can be suppressed.

[0427] like Figure 23 , 25 As shown, the centers of the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 in the radial direction relative to the first outermost end face 301 are located radially outward. This increases the circumferential size of the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342, thereby increasing their strength.

[0428] like Figure 6As shown, limiting surfaces 635 and 636 are formed on the circumferential end face of the limiting recess 63 of the limiting portion 631. A protruding limiting surface 333 capable of abutting against the limiting surface 635 is formed on the circumferential end face of the valve body 31 of the first limiting protrusion 332. A protruding limiting surface 343 capable of abutting against the limiting surface 636 is formed on the circumferential end face of the valve body 31 of the second limiting protrusion 342. Rotation of the valve body 31 is limited when the protruding limiting surface 333 abuts against the limiting surface 635 or when the protruding limiting surface 343 abuts against the limiting surface 636.

[0429] like Figure 23 , Figure 25 As shown, the corners of the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 opposite to the first outermost end face 301 are chamfered so that they are inclined relative to the first outermost end face 301. Therefore, even if there are foreign objects such as sand near the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 of the limiting recess 63, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from biting into the corners of the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 and the limiting recess 63.

[0430] <3-8>

[0431] The first limiting protrusion 332 extends along the mating surface 331 toward the limiting recess 63. The second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the first limiting protrusion 332 and extends along the mating surface 331 toward the limiting recess 63.

[0432] Therefore, when the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 abut against the limiting portion 631 of the limiting recess 63, the separation of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the joint surfaces 331 and 341 can be more effectively suppressed.

[0433] <3-9>

[0434] like Figure 20 , Figure 21 , Figure 22 As shown, the valve body 31 has a valve body opening rib 411 connecting the inner edge end of the valve body opening 410. The valve body 31 also has valve body opening ribs 421 and 422 connecting the inner edge end of the valve body opening 420. Furthermore, the valve body 31 has valve body opening ribs 431 and 432 connecting the inner edge end of the valve body opening 430. Therefore, the strength of the valve body openings 410, 420, and 430 can be improved.

[0435] Valve body opening ribs 411, 421, and 431 are formed on an imaginary plane containing the shaft Axs1 (rotation shaft Axr1) of the shaft 32, i.e., on an imaginary plane Vp1 containing the mating surfaces 331 and 341. In other words, valve body opening ribs 411, 421, and 431 are formed by sandwiching mating surfaces 331 and 341. Valve body opening ribs 422 and 432 are formed on an imaginary plane containing the shaft Axs1 (rotation shaft Axr1) of the shaft 32 and orthogonal to the imaginary plane Vp1.

[0436] like Figure 24 , Figure 25 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is formed at a position that moves radially inward from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1 along the outer peripheral wall of the ball valve 41 of the valve body 31.

[0437] The imaginary sphere Vs1 is an imaginary sphere that includes the outer peripheral wall of the ball valve 41.

[0438] Therefore, when the valve body 31 rotates, it can prevent the valve seal 36 from getting stuck on the valve body opening rib 411 and increasing the sliding resistance.

[0439] <3-9-1>

[0440] like Figure 24 , Figure 25 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is formed in an arc shape, spaced at a predetermined distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1. Furthermore, the valve body opening ribs 421, 422 and 431, 432 are also formed in an arc shape, spaced at a predetermined distance from the imaginary spherical surface along the outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 42 and 43.

[0441] Therefore, it can suppress the increase of sliding resistance when the valve body 31 rotates, and can increase the flow area inside the valve body opening ribs 411, 421, 422, 431, and 432.

[0442] like Figure 24 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is formed into an arc-shaped flat plate. The radially outer portion of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the outer edge 401 of the rib, is at a constant distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1. The radially inner portion of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the inner edge 402 of the rib, is at a constant distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1. One end of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the rib end 403, is connected to the portion opposite to the cylindrical connecting portion 44 in the inner edge end of the valve body opening portion 410. The other end of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the rib end 404, is connected to the portion on the side of the cylindrical connecting portion 44 in the inner edge end of the valve body opening portion 410.

[0443] <3-11>

[0444] like Figure 26As shown, when all the valve seal openings 360 of the valve seal 36 are completely blocked by the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31, the mating surfaces 331 and 341 are in a position where they have left the valve seal 36.

[0445] Therefore, by forming a step difference on the outer peripheral wall in the mating surfaces 331 and 341 of the valve body 31, when the valve body 31 is in the fully closed state, leakage of cooling water between the valve seal 36 and the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 can be suppressed.

[0446] <3-12>

[0447] like Figure 20 As shown, the valve body 31 has a specific shape portion 441 at the cylindrical connecting portion 44. This specific shape portion 441 is formed on the mating surfaces 331 and 341 and has an outer wall with a curvature different from that of the outer peripheral wall of the cylindrical connecting portion 44. The valve body 31 also has a specific shape portion 451 at the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45. This specific shape portion 451 is formed on the mating surfaces 331 and 341 and has an outer wall with a curvature different from that of the outer peripheral wall of the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45.

[0448] Therefore, when the valve body 31 rotates, the specific shaped portions 441 and 451 do not slide with the valve seal 36, which can suppress malfunction of the valve body 31 and suppress wear of the valve seal 36.

[0449] <3-12-1>

[0450] The specific shape portions 441 and 451 are respectively formed such that the outer wall protrudes outward from the outer peripheral wall of the cylindrical connecting portion 44 and the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45.

[0451] <3-12-2>

[0452] The specific shape portions 441 and 451 may also be formed such that the outer wall is recessed inward from the outer peripheral wall of the cylindrical connecting portion 44 and the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45.

[0453] <3-12-3>

[0454] Alternatively, the outer walls of the specific shaped parts 441 and 451 may be formed as planar shapes.

[0455] like Figure 20 As shown, the length of the specific-shaped portion 441 in the axial direction Axs1 of the shaft 32 is approximately 1 / 10 of the length of the cylindrical connecting portion 44. The length of the specific-shaped portion 451 in the axial direction Axs1 of the shaft 32 is approximately 1 / 3 of the length of the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the enlargement of the valve body 31.

[0456] <3-13>

[0457] like Figure 22 As shown, the valve body 31 has an end face opening 415 and an end face opening 425. The end face opening 415 is formed on the end face of the ball valve 41 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, connecting the intervalve space 400 formed on the radially outer side of the cylindrical connecting part 44 between the ball valve 41 and the ball valve 42, and the internal flow path 300 of the ball valve 41. The end face opening 425 is formed on the end face of the ball valve 42 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, connecting the intervalve space 400 with the internal flow path 300 of the ball valve 42. Here, the end face openings 415 and 425 correspond to the "first end face opening" and the "second end face opening," respectively.

[0458] Entry port 220 (reference) Figure 3 It is connected to the valve space 400. Therefore, cooling water flowing into the internal space 200 from the inlet port 220 can flow into the valve body flow path 300 through the valve space 400, end face openings 415 and 425.

[0459] The valve space 400 is open over the entire circumferential area. Therefore, the flow resistance of cooling water flowing from the inlet port 220 into the internal space 200 and toward the flow path 300 in the valve body can be reduced.

[0460] like Figure 9 As shown, the valve space 400 overlaps with the inlet port 220 and the overflow port 224 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1. Therefore, cooling water flowing in from the inlet port 220 can easily flow to the overflow port 224, which can improve the responsiveness of the overflow valve 39.

[0461] like Figure 20 As shown, the valve space 400 is formed on the radially outer side of the cylindrical connecting portion 44, which is the portion with the smallest outer diameter in the axial direction of the valve body 31 from the first outermost end face 301 to the second outermost end face 302. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the valve space 400 is smaller than the radially outer diameter of the end face openings 415 and 425.

[0462] <3-14>

[0463] like Figure 27 As shown, the shaft 32 is integrally formed with the valve body 31 at the cylindrical connecting portion 44 by insert forming. That is, the shaft 32 is welded to the cylindrical connecting portion 44, but not to any part of the valve body 31 other than the cylindrical connecting portion 44.

[0464] When an insert forming part for the shaft 32 is provided in the flow path 300 inside the valve body, the flow path area of ​​the flow path 300 inside the valve body may become smaller and the water flow resistance may become larger. However, in this embodiment, since an insert forming part for the shaft 32 is provided at the cylindrical connecting part 44 outside the flow path 300 inside the valve body, the water flow resistance can be reduced.

[0465] <3-15>

[0466] like Figure 27 As shown, the shaft 32 has a rotation-stopping portion 321 capable of restricting relative rotation with the cylindrical connecting portion 44. The cross-sectional shape of the rotation-stopping portion 321 is formed as a polygon. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional shape is formed as a hexagon. Here, the rotation-stopping portion 321 is formed, for example, by cutting the outer peripheral wall of the cylindrical shaft 32 into a planar shape at six points in the circumferential direction. Therefore, the outer wall of the rotation-stopping portion 321 is located radially inward relative to the outer peripheral wall of the shaft 32. In addition, the inner wall of the cylindrical connecting portion 44 is formed as a hexagon in cross-sectional shape in a manner corresponding to the shape of the rotation-stopping portion 321.

[0467] Therefore, the relative rotation of the valve body 31 and the shaft 32 can be restricted through a simple structure.

[0468] <3-16>

[0469] like Figure 28 As shown, the valve body 31 has a cylindrical valve connection part 45 and a ball valve 43. The cylindrical valve connection part 45 is connected to the ball valve 42 on the opposite side of the cylindrical connection part 44. The outer and inner peripheral walls are formed in a cylindrical shape, and a valve body internal flow path 300 is formed on the inner side. The ball valve 43 is connected to the cylindrical valve connection part 45 on the opposite side of the ball valve 42. The outer peripheral wall is formed in a spherical shape.

[0470] The outer and inner peripheral walls of the cylindrical valve connection 45 are formed in a cylindrical shape. Therefore, the flow area of ​​the flow path 300 inside the valve body can be ensured.

[0471] <3-17>

[0472] like Figure 20 As shown, the outer diameter of the outer peripheral wall of ball valve 41 is the same as that of the outer peripheral wall of ball valve 43. In addition, the outer diameter of the outer peripheral wall of ball valve 42 is also the same as that of the outer peripheral wall of ball valve 41 and the outer peripheral wall of ball valve 43.

[0473] The area of ​​the first outermost end face 301, located on the opposite side of the rotation axis Axr1 of ball valve 41 to ball valve 43, is different from the area of ​​the second outermost end face 302, located on the opposite side of the rotation axis Axr1 of ball valve 43 to ball valve 41. Here, the area of ​​the second outermost end face 302 is larger than the area of ​​the first outermost end face 301. Therefore, the length of ball valve 43 in the rotation axis Axr1 direction is shorter than the length of ball valve 41.

[0474] Therefore, the axial size of the valve body 31 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 can be reduced.

[0475] <3-18>

[0476] like Figure 20 , Figure 22 As shown, the valve body 31 has a valve body opening rib 422 connected to the inner edge of the valve body opening 420 of the ball valve 42, and a valve body opening rib 432 connected to the inner edge of the valve body opening 430 of the ball valve 43. Here, the valve body opening rib 422 and the valve body opening rib 432 correspond to the "second valve body opening rib" and the "third valve body opening rib", respectively.

[0477] Valve body opening ribs 422 and 432 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction of the valve body 31. That is, valve body opening ribs 422 and 432 are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis Axr1. In addition, valve body opening ribs 411 and 421 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction of the valve body 31.

[0478] Therefore, it can suppress the turbulence of cooling water flowing around the valve body opening ribs 422 and 432, and reduce water flow resistance.

[0479] <3-19>

[0480] like Figure 20 , Figure 21 , Figure 22 As shown, the valve body 31 has end-face opening ribs 416 and 417 that connect the cylindrical connecting portion 44 to the ball valve 41 across the end-face opening portion 415, and end-face opening ribs 426 and 427 that connect the cylindrical connecting portion 44 to the ball valve 42 across the end-face opening portion 425. Here, end-face opening ribs 416 and 417 correspond to the "first end-face opening rib", and end-face opening ribs 426 and 427 correspond to the "second end-face opening rib".

[0481] Two end-face open ribs 416 and 426 are formed, each sandwiching a cylindrical connecting portion 44 between them. Two end-face open ribs 417 and 427 are formed, each sandwiching a cylindrical connecting portion 44 between them.

[0482] Furthermore, end-face opening ribs 416 and 426 are formed on the imaginary plane Vp1. That is, end-face opening ribs 416 and 426 are formed by sandwiching mating surfaces 331 and 341. Thus, valve body opening ribs 411 and 421 and end-face opening ribs 416 and 426 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction of valve body 31.

[0483] like Figure 21 As shown, the starting position of the end face opening ribs 426 and 427 is the outer edge of the end face of the ball valve 41 side of the ball valve 42. The ending position of the end face opening ribs 426 and 427 is the outer peripheral wall of the end of the cylindrical connecting part 44 on the ball valve 42 side.

[0484] like Figure 21 As shown, the outermost radially raised portion of the valve body opening rib 421 extends further outward than the outer periphery of the ball valve 42 at the starting position of the end face opening rib 426. The valve body opening rib 411 is located radially outward than the straight portion of the end face opening rib 426.

[0485] like Figure 21 As shown, the side of the valve body flow path 300 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the end face opening rib 426 is formed as a straight line. The side of the valve space 400 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the end face opening rib 426 is formed as a curve on the radially outer side of the ball valve 42 and as a straight line on the radially inner side.

[0486] like Figure 28 As shown, the side of the end-face opening rib 427 on the valve body flow path 300 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 is formed as a straight line. The side of the end-face opening rib 427 on the valve space 400 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 is formed as a curve on the radially outer side of the ball valve 42, and as a straight line on the radially inner side, and is inclined relative to the rotation axis Axr1.

[0487] <3-19-1>

[0488] like Figure 20 , Figure 22 As shown, end face opening ribs 417, 427, 422, and 432 are formed at the same position in the circumferential direction of the valve body 31. That is, the end face opening ribs 417, 427, 422, and 432 are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis Axr1. Furthermore, the end face opening ribs 417, 427, 422, and 432 are formed on an imaginary plane that includes the shaft 32 (rotation axis Axr1) and is orthogonal to the imaginary plane Vp1.

[0489] Therefore, it can suppress the turbulence of cooling water flowing around the end face opening ribs 417, 427 and the valve body opening ribs 422, 432, and reduce water flow resistance.

[0490] <3-20>

[0491] like Figure 20 , Figure 21 , Figure 22As shown, end-face open ribs 416 and 417 form a rib end-face gap 418 between their end faces in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the ball valve 41, i.e., the valve end face 419. End-face open ribs 426 and 427 form a rib end-face gap 428 between their end faces in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the ball valve 42, i.e., the valve end face 429. Here, the rib end-face gap 418 corresponds to the "first rib end-face gap", and the rib end-face gap 428 corresponds to the "second rib end-face gap".

[0492] like Figure 20 , Figure 21 As shown, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis Axr1, the end face gap 428 of the ribs 426 and 427 can be visually seen between the end face opening ribs 426 and 427 and the end face of the ball valve 42 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1.

[0493] Therefore, the water flow resistance at the end face openings 415 and 425 can be reduced.

[0494] <3-21>

[0495] like Figure 20 , Figure 22 As shown, the end-face opening rib 417 is formed such that the surface on the ball valve 42 side is inclined relative to the rotation axis Axr1. The end-face opening rib 427 is formed such that the surface on the ball valve 41 side is inclined relative to the rotation axis Axr1.

[0496] Therefore, it can reduce the water flow resistance around the end face opening ribs 417 and 427.

[0497] Next, the manufacturing method of valve 30 will be described. In this embodiment, valve 30 is manufactured using a so-called die sliding injection (DSI) method.

[0498] like Figure 29 As shown, the molding device 100 includes a first mold 110, a second mold 120, etc. The first mold 110 has a first outer mold 111 and a first inner mold 112. The second mold 120 has a second outer mold 121 and a second inner mold 122.

[0499] The first outer mold 111 has a first concave surface 113 that is recessed in a hemispherical shape from the end face of the first inner mold 112 side. The first concave surface 113 is formed to correspond to the shape of the outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, 43 in the outer peripheral wall of the first segment 33.

[0500] The first inner mold 112 has a first convex surface 114 that protrudes in a hemispherical shape from the end face of the first outer mold 111. The first convex surface 114 is formed to correspond to the shape of the inner peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 in the outer peripheral wall of the first partition 33. Here, it is set such that when the first outer mold 111 abuts against the first inner mold 112, the distance between the first concave surface 113 and the first convex surface 114 is the same in at least a portion of the range in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31 and in the circumferential direction.

[0501] The second outer mold 121 has a second concave surface 123 that is recessed in a hemispherical shape from the end face of the second inner mold 122. The second concave surface 123 is formed to correspond to the shape of the outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 in the outer peripheral wall of the second segment 34.

[0502] The second inner mold 122 has a second convex surface 124 that protrudes in a hemispherical shape from the end face of the second outer mold 121. The second convex surface 124 is formed to correspond to the shape of the inner peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 in the outer peripheral wall of the second segment 34. Here, it is set such that when the second outer mold 121 abuts against the second inner mold 122, the distance between the second concave surface 123 and the second convex surface 124 is the same in at least a portion of the range in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 and the circumferential direction of the valve body 31.

[0503] The manufacturing method of valve 30 includes the following steps.

[0504] <3-22> Manufacturing Method of Spherical Valve Body

[0505] (Single molding process)

[0506] In a single molding process, the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are molded with resin through the first mold 110 and the second mold 120, respectively. Specifically, as follows... Figure 29 As shown in (A), the first outer mold 111 abuts against the first inner mold 112, and the second outer mold 121 abuts against the second inner mold 122, and molten resin is injected between the first concave surface 113 and the first convex surface 114, and between the second concave surface 123 and the second convex surface 171.

[0507] like Figure 30 As shown, the resin injected from the injection section 130 of the molding device 100 flows through the gating system 131, runner 132, gates 133 and 134 to the first mold 110 and the second mold 120. When the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 cool and solidify, one molding process is completed.

[0508] <3-22-1>

[0509] When the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are resin molded in a single molding process, the distance between the first concave surface 113 and the first convex surface 114 and the distance between the second concave surface 123 and the second convex surface 124 are the same in at least a portion of the rotation axis Axr1 direction and circumferential direction.

[0510] Therefore, at least a portion of the valve body 31 can be made uniform in thickness. This further improves the spherical accuracy of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and further increases the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 300 of the valve body.

[0511] <3-23>

[0512] (Sliding process)

[0513] In the sliding process following the first molding process, the first segment 33 or the second segment 34 is slid together with the first mold 110 or the second mold 120 so that the mating surfaces 331 and 341 of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are aligned. Specifically, as follows... Figure 29 As shown in (B), the first segment 33 is slid together with the first outer mold 111 so that the first inner mold 112 is disengaged from the first outer mold 111, the second inner mold 122 is disengaged from the second outer mold 121, and the mating surfaces 331 and 341 of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are opposed to each other.

[0514] Valve 30 can be manufactured efficiently through a sliding process.

[0515] <3-24>

[0516] (Shaft configuration process)

[0517] In the shaft configuration process following the sliding process, shaft 32 is configured on the rotating shaft Axr1 of valve body 31. Specifically, as follows... Figure 29 As shown in (C), the shaft 32 is positioned between the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 as the rotating shaft Axr1.

[0518] Therefore, compared to assembling the shaft 32 after the valve body 31 is formed, the amount of assembly work for the shaft 32 can be reduced.

[0519] <3-22>

[0520] (Two molding processes)

[0521] In the second molding process after the shaft assembly process, resin is injected between the fusion portion of the joint surface of the first segment 33 and the fusion portion of the joint surface of the second segment 34 to fuse the first segment 33 and the second segment 34.

[0522] like Figure 31As shown, in the second segment 34 after the first molding process, welded portions 311, 312, and 313 are formed in the mating surface 341. Welded portion 311 is formed in a groove shape by recessing from the mating surface 341 of the second segment 34 corresponding to the ball valve 41. Welded portion 312 is formed in a groove shape by recessing from the mating surface 341 of the second segment 34 corresponding to the cylindrical connecting portion 44. Welded portion 313 is formed in a groove shape by recessing from the mating surface 341 of the second segment 34 corresponding to the ball valve 42, the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and the ball valve 43. The first segment 33, like the second segment 34, also has welded portions 311, 312, and 313.

[0523] A gate inlet 141 of the mold assembly 100 is disposed at one end of the weld section 311, and a gate outlet 145 is disposed at the other end of the weld section 311. A gate inlet 142 of the mold assembly 100 is disposed at one end of the weld section 312, and a gate outlet 146 is disposed at the other end of the weld section 312. A gate inlet 143 of the mold assembly 100 is disposed at the center of the weld section 313, and gate outlets 147 are disposed at both ends of the weld section 313. Here, the gate inlet 142 and the gate outlet 146 are disposed at the axial center of the cylindrical connecting section 44. In addition, the gate inlet 143 is disposed at the axial center of the cylindrical valve connecting section 45. Furthermore, the gate inlet 141 is disposed on the first outermost end face 301 of the ball valve 41. The gate outlet 145 is disposed on the end face of the ball valve 41 opposite to the first outermost end face 301. The gate outlet 147 is located on the second outermost end face 302 of the ball valve 43 and the end face of the ball valve 42 on the ball valve 41 side.

[0524] like Figure 32 As shown, in the two-stage molding process, molten resin is injected from the injection section 140 of the molding device 100 into the bonding sections 311, 312, and 313 via gate inlets 141, 142, and 143. The resin flowing into the bonding sections 311, 312, and 313 from the gate inlets 141, 142, and 143 flows toward the gate outlets 145, 146, and 147, respectively, and flows out from the gate outlets 145, 146, and 147. When the resin in the bonding sections 311, 312, and 313 cools and solidifies, the first segment 33, the second segment 34, and the shaft 32 are bonded, and the two-stage molding process is completed. Here, the resin remaining in the cylindrical connecting portion 44 of the valve body 31 at the position corresponding to the gate inlet 142 and the gate outlet 146 forms a specific shape portion 441. Furthermore, the resin remaining in the cylindrical valve connection 45 of the valve body 31 at the position corresponding to the gate inlet 143 forms a specific shape portion 451.

[0525] <3-22>

[0526] As described above, this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a valve 30 having a valve body 31 capable of rotating about a rotation axis Axr1 and a valve body flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, including a first molding process and a second molding process.

[0527] At least a portion of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is formed into a spherical shape, and at least a portion of the inner peripheral wall is formed to be recessed outward. The valve body 31 has a first segment 33 and a second segment 34 divided into two by an imaginary plane Vp1 containing the rotation axis Axr1. The first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are joined at their respective mating surfaces 331 and 341.

[0528] In a single molding process, the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 are respectively molded with resin through the first mold 110 and the second mold 120.

[0529] In the second molding process, resin is injected between the fusion portion (311, 312, 313) of the mating surface 331 of the first segment 33 and the fusion portion (311, 312, 313) of the mating surface 341 of the second segment 34 to fuse the first segment 33 and the second segment 34.

[0530] By manufacturing valve 30 using the above-described manufacturing method, the forming accuracy of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral wall of valve body 31 can be improved. This, in turn, suppresses the leakage of cooling water at the outer peripheral wall of valve body 31.

[0531] In addition, it can increase the flow area of ​​the flow path 300 inside the valve body, which can reduce the water flow resistance.

[0532] As described above, in this embodiment, the valve 30 is manufactured by die sliding injection (DSI). During DSI molding, the valve body 31 is separated into two parts. Therefore, compared to the conventional manufacturing method where the valve body 31 is demolded axially, the number of openings in the valve body 31 can be changed without increasing the demolding direction. As a result, it is possible to accommodate complex flow diagrams. Furthermore, when the valve body 31 is integrally formed, increasing the number of openings increases the number of molds required for demolding.

[0533] In DSI molding, since the mold release direction is radial to the valve body 31, compared to the usual manufacturing method where the mold releases axially to the valve body 31, it is possible to prevent the mold from rubbing against the surface of the product and causing changes. In addition, it is also possible to prevent deformation of the product surface, thus improving the sealing performance.

[0534] (Fourth implementation)

[0535] exist Figure 33 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0536] <3-10>

[0537] like Figure 33 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is formed in a straight line at a predetermined distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1. In addition, the valve body opening ribs 421, 422 and 431, 432 are also formed in a straight line at a predetermined distance from the imaginary spherical surface along the outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 42 and 43.

[0538] Therefore, when the valve body 31 rotates, it can more effectively suppress the situation where the valve seal 36 gets stuck on the valve body opening rib 411 and the sliding resistance increases.

[0539] like Figure 33 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is formed as a straight, flat plate. The radially outer portion of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the outer edge 401 of the rib, is formed as a straight line parallel to the rotation axis Axr1, and its distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1 varies in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1. The radially inner portion of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the inner edge 402 of the rib, is formed as a straight line parallel to the rotation axis Axr1, and its distance from the imaginary spherical surface Vs1 varies in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1. One end of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the rib end 403, is connected to the portion opposite to the cylindrical connecting portion 44 in the inner edge end of the valve body opening portion 410. The other end of the valve body opening rib 411, i.e., the rib end 404, is connected to the portion on the side of the cylindrical connecting portion 44 in the inner edge end of the valve body opening portion 410.

[0540] like Figure 33 As shown, the valve body opening rib 411 is located radially outside the ball valve 41 relative to the second limiting protrusion 342.

[0541] (Fifth Embodiment)

[0542] exist Figure 34 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0543] The valve body 31 of valve 30 includes a ball valve 46. A shaft 32 is disposed on the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31. The ball valve 46 has an outer peripheral wall 461 and an inner peripheral wall 462. The outer peripheral wall 461 is spherically shaped and protrudes radially outward from the ball valve 46. The inner peripheral wall 462 is spherically shaped and recessed radially outward from the ball valve 46. Here, the distance between the outer peripheral wall 461 and the inner peripheral wall 462 is the same in at least a portion of the range along the rotation axis Axr1 and circumferentially. That is, the valve body 31 is formed such that its thickness is uniform (uniform thickness), at least within the aforementioned range.

[0544] Next, the manufacturing method of valve 30 will be explained.

[0545] like Figure 35As shown, the mold assembly 150 includes an upper base 151, a lower base 152, an upper support column 153, a lower support column 154, a mold drive body 155, a first inner mold 160, a second inner mold 170, and an outer mold 180.

[0546] The upper base 151 is formed in the shape of a plate. The lower base 152 is formed in the shape of a plate and is arranged parallel to the upper base 151. The upper support column 153 is formed in the shape of a rod, with one end connected to the upper base 151 on the side opposite to the lower base 152. Eight upper support columns 153 are provided in a ring shape with one end wrapped around the central axis CAx1 of the mold assembly 150 in the upper base 151 (see reference). Figure 36 The upper support column 153 is able to swing with one end as the fulcrum and the other end laterally toward the central axis CAx1.

[0547] The lower support column 154 is formed in the shape of a rod, with one end connected to the upper base 151 side of the lower base 152. The lower support column 154 is configured such that the other end passes through a hole in the upper base 151 and is located on the opposite side of the lower base 152 relative to the upper base 151. Eight lower support columns 154 are provided in a ring-shaped arrangement around the central axis CAx1 in the lower base 152 (see reference). Figure 37 The lower support column 154 is able to swing with one end as the fulcrum and the other end laterally toward the central axis CAx1.

[0548] The first inner mold 160 is disposed at the other end of each of the eight upper support columns 153. That is, a total of eight first inner molds 160 are provided. The second inner mold 170 is disposed at the other end of each of the eight lower support columns 154. That is, a total of eight second inner molds 170 are provided.

[0549] like Figure 38 As shown, the first inner mold 160 has a first convex surface 161 on a portion of its outer wall. The first convex surface 161 is formed in a spherical shape. The second inner mold 170 has a second convex surface 171 on a portion of its outer wall. The second convex surface 171 is also formed in a spherical shape.

[0550] like Figure 35 As shown, the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction such that the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 face the side opposite to the central axis CAx1. Thus, the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 can form a spherical surface that is continuous in the circumferential direction.

[0551] The outer mold 180 has a concave surface 181 on its inner wall (see reference). Figure 39 The concave surface 181 is formed into a spherical shape. The outer mold 180 is disposed outside the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 in such a way that the concave surface 181 is opposite to the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171.

[0552] The mold drive body 155 is cylindrical. It is coaxially disposed inside the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170, with respect to the central axis CAx1. Engaging grooves 156 are formed on the outer peripheral wall of the mold drive body 155. The engaging grooves 156 extend from one end of the mold drive body 155 to the other end. Eight engaging grooves 156 are formed at equal intervals along the circumference of the mold drive body 155.

[0553] The first inner mold 160 has an engaging protrusion 162 on the side opposite to the first convex surface 161. The engaging protrusion 162 can engage with the engaging groove 156 of the mold drive body 155. Furthermore, the mold drive body 155 can move in the direction of the central axis CAx1 when the engaging protrusion 162 and the engaging groove 156 are engaged. The outer peripheral wall of the mold drive body 155 is formed in a conical shape. Therefore, if the mold drive body 155 moves relative to the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 towards the upper base 151 in the direction of the central axis CAx1, the eight first inner molds 160 move towards the central axis CAx1 (see reference). Figure 39 , Figure 40 As a result, the inner diameter of the spherical surface formed by the first convex surface 161 decreases. Furthermore, if the first inner mold 160 moves and converges towards the central axis CAx1, the eight second inner molds 170 can also move and converge towards the central axis CAx1. That is, if the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 move and converge towards the central axis CAx1, the inner diameter of the spherical surface formed by the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 decreases.

[0554] The manufacturing method of valve 30 includes the following steps.

[0555] <3-25> Manufacturing Method of Spherical Valve Body

[0556] (Resin molding process)

[0557] In the resin molding process, the valve body 31 is resin molded between the outer mold 180 and the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 disposed inside the outer mold 180. Specifically, as follows... Figure 35 , Figure 39 As shown in (A), molten resin is injected into the space formed between the spherical surface formed by the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 and the concave surface 181 of the outer mold 180. When the resin cools and solidifies, the resin molding process is completed.

[0558] <3-25-1>

[0559] When the valve body 31 is resin molded in the resin molding process, the concave surface 181 is equidistant from the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 in at least a portion of the rotation axis Axr1 direction and circumferential direction (see reference). Figure 39(A)).

[0560] Therefore, at least a portion of the valve body 31 can be made uniform in thickness. This further improves the spherical accuracy of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and further increases the flow area of ​​the internal flow path 300 of the valve body.

[0561] (Mold moving process)

[0562] In the mold moving process following the resin molding process, the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 are moved inward toward the valve body 31. Specifically, as follows: Figure 39 (A), (B) Figure 40 As shown in (A) to (E), the mold drive body 155 is moved relative to the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 in the direction of the central axis CAx1, causing the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 to move towards the central axis CAx1, thereby reducing the diameter of the spherical surface formed by the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171. This creates a gap between the inner peripheral wall 462 of the valve body 31 and the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171. Furthermore, by moving the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 relative to the valve body 31 in the direction of the central axis CAx1, the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 are pulled out from the valve body 31.

[0563] <3-26>

[0564] like Figure 41 As shown in (A) and (B), the protrusion height H1 of the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 is set to be smaller than the distance Dm1 that the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 can move during the mold moving process.

[0565] Therefore, when the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 are pulled out from the valve body 31, the first convex surface 161 and the second convex surface 171 will not interfere with the inner peripheral wall 462 of the valve body 31, and the first inner mold 160 and the second inner mold 170 can be easily pulled out from the valve body 31.

[0566] <3-25>

[0567] As described above, this embodiment is a method for manufacturing a valve 30 having a valve body 31 capable of rotating about a rotation axis Axr1 and a valve body flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, including a resin molding process and a mold moving process.

[0568] At least a portion of the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is formed into a spherical shape, and at least a portion of the inner peripheral wall is formed into an outward concavity.

[0569] In the resin molding process, the valve body 31 is resin molded between the outer mold 180 and the inner molds (160, 170) disposed inside the outer mold 180.

[0570] In the mold moving process, after the resin molding process, the inner mold (160, 170) is moved to the inside of the valve body 31.

[0571] By manufacturing valve 30 using the above-described manufacturing method, the forming accuracy of the spherical surface of the outer peripheral wall of valve body 31 can be improved. This, in turn, suppresses the leakage of cooling water from the outer peripheral wall of valve body 31.

[0572] In addition, it can increase the flow area of ​​the flow path 300 inside the valve body, which can reduce the water flow resistance.

[0573] (Sixth Embodiment)

[0574] exist Figure 42 The diagram shows the valve device of the sixth embodiment. The structure of the valve 30 in the sixth embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment.

[0575] The ball valves 41 and 42, the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and the ball valve 43 of the valve body 31 are integrally formed in this order from the drive portion 70 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 toward the side opposite to the drive portion 70. The valve body 31 is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the inner peripheral walls of the ball valves 41, 42, the cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and the ball valve 43 are formed in a generally cylindrical surface centered on the rotation axis Axr1. In addition, the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is formed in a conical shape, and the inner diameter increases as it moves from the drive portion 70 side in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 toward the side opposite to the drive portion 70. The outer peripheral wall of the ball valves 41, 42, and 43 of the valve body 31 is spherical. The shaft 32 is integrally provided with the valve body 31 at the rotation axis Axr1.

[0576] Outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 are respectively located at positions corresponding to ball valves 41, 42, and 43. The end of pipe 511 opposite to outlet port 221 is connected to radiator 5 via a hose or the like. The end of pipe 512 opposite to outlet port 222 is connected to heater 6 via a hose or the like. The end of pipe 513 opposite to outlet port 223 is connected to device 7 via a hose or the like.

[0577] like Figure 42 As shown, ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are respectively located at positions corresponding to outlet ports 221, 222, and 223. Here, "positions corresponding to outlet ports 221, 222, and 223" refers to the range that overlaps with the projection when outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 are projected onto the axial direction of outlet ports 221, 222, and 223.

[0578] like Figure 42As shown, the cylindrical valve connection part 45 is disposed between the outlet port 222 and the outlet port 223 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1.

[0579] Mounting surface 201 is formed orthogonally to pipe mounting surface 202 (see reference). Figure 43 The inlet port 220 is formed by opening in the mounting surface 201. The opening of the inlet port 220 on the mounting surface 201 is circular.

[0580] like Figure 44 As shown, the valve assembly 10 is installed in the engine 2 within the narrow space A2 between the engine 2 and the inverter 16. Here, the valve assembly 10 is installed in the engine 2 such that the pipe component 50 is positioned vertically upward relative to the valve 30.

[0581] <1-1> Shell connecting hole

[0582] like Figure 42 , Figure 43 As shown, the housing 20 has fastening portions 231, 232, and 233 integrally formed with the housing body 21. The fastening portions 231, 232, and 233 are formed to protrude from their ends on the mounting surface 201 side of the housing body 21 toward the surface of the mounting surface 201. Furthermore, the housing 20 has fastening holes 241, 242, and 243 formed corresponding to the fastening portions 231, 232, and 233, respectively.

[0583] A connecting member 240 is inserted through connecting holes 241, 242, and 243, connecting it tightly to the engine 2. Thus, the valve device 10 is installed to the engine 2. A rubber port seal 209 is provided radially outward of the inlet port 220 of the mounting surface 201. The port seal 209 is compressed by the axial force of the connecting member 240 when the valve device 10 is installed in the engine 2. Therefore, the port seal 209 maintains a liquid seal between the mounting surface 201 and the engine 2, preventing coolant leakage from the inlet port 220 through the mounting surface 201 and the engine 2.

[0584] like Figure 43 As shown, the opening of the inlet port 220 is formed on the inside of the triangle Ti1 formed by connecting the three closely connected holes, namely closely connected holes 241, 242, and 243.

[0585] <1-1>

[0586] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20 and a valve 30.

[0587] The housing 20 includes: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; a mounting surface 201 formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21 and facing the engine 2 when mounted on the engine 2; an inlet port 220 that opens on the mounting surface 201 and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21; a plurality of fastening portions (231, 232, 233) integrally formed with the housing body 21; and a plurality of fastening holes (241, 242, 243) formed corresponding to the plurality of fastening portions.

[0588] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that is rotatable about a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, and an internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31 and capable of communicating with an inlet port 220.

[0589] The housing body 21 is fixed to the engine 2 by a fastening member 240 that is screwed into the engine 2 through fastening holes (241, 242, 243).

[0590] At least three closely spaced holes are formed.

[0591] The opening of the inlet port 220 is formed on the inside of the triangle Ti1 formed by connecting the three closely connected holes (241, 242, 243).

[0592] Therefore, when a port sealing member 209, consisting of an annular elastic component, is provided around the inlet port 220, the port sealing member 209 can be compressed evenly and well when the housing body 21 is fixed to the engine 2 by the connecting member 240 passing through the three connecting holes (231, 232, 233). This effectively ensures the sealing around the inlet port 220.

[0593] like Figure 43 As shown, the connecting portion 231 is formed to protrude from the housing body 21 in the longer direction of the housing body 21. The connecting portions 232 and 233 are formed to protrude from the housing body 21 in the shorter direction of the housing body 21.

[0594] like Figure 43 As shown, the protruding starting position of the connecting portion 231 is the corner of the housing body 21 opposite to the drive portion 70, where the rectangular mounting surface 201 with the inlet port 220 is formed. The protruding starting position of the connecting portion 232 is the portion near the inlet port 220 of one of the two sides of the rectangular mounting surface 201 with the inlet port 220 extending in the longer direction, opposite to the side of the connecting portion 233. The protruding starting position of the connecting portion 233 is the portion of the housing body 21 at the shorter end, on the drive portion 70 side.

[0595] like Figure 43As shown, the distance between the side of triangle Ti1 connecting the centers of the closely connected holes 241 and 242 and the center Cp1 of the inlet port 220 is less than the distance between the side connecting the centers of the closely connected holes 242 and 243 and the center Cp1. Similarly, the distance between the side connecting the centers of the closely connected holes 242 and 243 and the center Cp1 is less than the distance between the side connecting the centers of the closely connected holes 243 and 241 and the center Cp1.

[0596] <4-1> Cover fixing part protrusion suppression

[0597] like Figure 45 , Figure 46 As shown, the drive unit cover 80 has a cover body 81 that forms the drive unit space 800, and cover fixing parts 821 to 826 formed on the outer edge of the cover body 81 and fixed to the housing body 21.

[0598] Cover fixing parts 821 to 826 are respectively formed with cover fastening holes 831 to 836. Fixing parts 830 are inserted into cover fastening holes 831 to 836 and are fastened to the housing body 21.

[0599] Here, the cover fixing parts 823 and 824 are formed such that at least one of the two ends of the housing body 21 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 does not protrude outward.

[0600] Specifically, the cover fixing parts 823 and 824 are formed such that they do not protrude outward from the end of the housing body 21 on the opposite side of the mounting surface 201, i.e., the end of the housing 215, which is not perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0601] Figure 45 The imaginary plane Vp3 shown is an imaginary plane that passes through the housing end 215 and is parallel to the mounting surface 201. The cover fixing parts 823 and 824 are located on the mounting surface 201 side relative to this imaginary plane Vp3.

[0602] Furthermore, the cover fixing portions 821 and 826 are formed such that they do not protrude outward from the end of the housing body 21 on the side of the mounting surface 201 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, i.e., the housing end 216. That is, the cover fixing portions 821 and 826 are located on the imaginary plane Vp3 side relative to the mounting surface 201.

[0603] Here, the cover body 81 is part of the drive unit cover 80, and refers to the part that forms the drive unit space 800. Therefore, although the cover fixing parts 821 to 826 are parts that constitute the drive unit cover 80, they are formed as different parts from the cover body 81.

[0604] like Figure 45As shown, the outer wall of the cover body 81 has cover planar portions 811, 812, 813, and cover curved portions 814. One cover planar portion 811 is formed in a planar shape, orthogonal to the rotation axis Axr1. Multiple cover planar portions 812 are formed in a planar shape, parallel to the rotation axis Axr1. One cover planar portion 813 is formed in a planar shape, inclined to the rotation axis Axr1. Multiple cover curved portions 814 are formed in a curved shape, parallel to the rotation axis Axr1. Here, the multiple cover curved portions 814 are interconnected.

[0605] like Figure 45 As shown, the clamping holes 831-833 are formed on the pipe member 50 side relative to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71. The clamping holes 834-836 are formed on the connector portion 84 side relative to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71. The clamping hole 833 is formed closer to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 than the clamping holes 831 and 832. The clamping hole 834 is formed closer to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71 than the clamping holes 835 and 836.

[0606] <4-1>

[0607] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, a drive unit cover 80, and a drive unit 70.

[0608] The housing 20 has: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; a mounting surface 201 formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21 and facing the engine 2 when it is mounted on the engine 2; and ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0609] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) connecting the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1. The valve body 30 can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path 300 through the valve body opening (410, 420, 430) and the ports (220, 221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0610] The partition 60 is configured to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and has a shaft insertion hole 62 formed to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted.

[0611] The drive unit cover 80 is disposed on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, forming a drive unit space 800 between it and the partition wall 60.

[0612] The drive unit 70 is provided in the drive unit space 800 and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via one end of the shaft 32.

[0613] The drive unit cover 80 has a cover body 81 that forms the drive unit space 800, and a cover fixing part (821-826) formed on the outer edge of the cover body 81 and fixed to the housing body 21.

[0614] The cover fixing part (821-826) is formed such that it does not protrude outward in at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0615] Therefore, the volume of the drive unit cover 80 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can also be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be mounted in the confined space A2 of the vehicle 1.

[0616] like Figure 44 As shown, various devices are mounted around the engine 2. Therefore, the space available for mounting the valve device 10 is limited within the engine compartment. In this embodiment, since the volume of the valve device 10 can be reduced, it can be easily mounted in the confined space A2 of the vehicle 1 (see reference 1). Figure 44 ).

[0617] <4-1-1>

[0618] like Figure 45 As shown, the cover fixing parts 821 to 826 are located on an imaginary plane Vp4 that is perpendicular to the mounting surface 201. In addition, the imaginary plane Vp4 is also a plane that is perpendicular to the rotation axis Axr1 and the axis Axs1 of the shaft 32.

[0619] Therefore, the height of the drive unit cover 80 can be reduced.

[0620] <4-2>

[0621] like Figure 45 As shown, the end of the housing body 21 opposite to the mounting surface 201, namely the housing end 215, is formed such that it does not protrude outward compared to the end of the cover body 81 opposite to the mounting surface 201, namely the cover end 815. Furthermore, the cover end 815 is formed along an imaginary plane Vp3.

[0622] Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be further reduced.

[0623] <4-2-1>

[0624] like Figure 46 As shown, the housing body 21 has a notch 212 at the end opposite to the mounting surface 201, namely the housing end 215, which exposes the partition wall portion 60.

[0625] Therefore, the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be further reduced.

[0626] like Figure 45 As shown, the notch 212 is formed between the cover fixing part 823 and the cover fixing part 824.

[0627] <4-3>

[0628] like Figure 45 As shown, the connector portion 84 is formed such that at least one of the two ends of the cover body 81 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 does not protrude outward.

[0629] Specifically, the connector portion 84 is formed such that it does not protrude outward from the end of the cover body 81 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, i.e., the cover end 815, which is opposite to the mounting surface 201. That is, the connector portion 84 is located on the mounting surface 201 side relative to the imaginary plane Vp3.

[0630] Furthermore, the connector portion 84 is formed such that it does not protrude outward from the end of the cover body 81 on the mounting surface 201 side (i.e., the cover end 816) in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, i.e., on the mounting surface 201 side. That is, the connector portion 84 is located on the imaginary plane Vp3 side relative to the mounting surface 201.

[0631] <4-3-1>

[0632] like Figure 45 As shown, the connector portion 84 is formed to protrude from the outer edge of the cover body 81 in a direction other than Dv1, which is perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0633] <4-3-2>

[0634] Specifically, the connector portion 84 is formed to protrude from the outer edge of the cover body 81 in a direction Dp1 parallel to the mounting surface 201. In addition, the parallel direction Dp1 is a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis Axr1 and the axis Axs1 of the shaft 32.

[0635] Therefore, the volume of the drive cover 80 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be further reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be further reduced.

[0636] like Figure 45 As shown, the connector portion 84 is formed to protrude in the direction Dp1 from the portion between the cover fixing portion 825 and the cover fixing portion 826 in the outer edge of the cover body 81.

[0637] <4-4>

[0638] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, a drive unit cover 80, and a drive unit 70.

[0639] like Figure 45 As shown, the housing 20 includes: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; housing side cover fixing parts (291-296) which are formed as different parts from the housing body 21 by protruding from the outer wall of the housing body 21; a mounting surface 201 formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21 and facing the engine 2 when it is mounted on the engine 2; and ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0640] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) connecting the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1. The valve body 30 can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path 300 through the valve body opening (410, 420, 430) and the ports (220, 221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0641] The partition 60 is configured to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and has a shaft insertion hole 62 formed so that one end of the shaft 32 can be inserted through.

[0642] The drive unit cover 80 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, forming a drive unit space 800 between it and the partition wall 60.

[0643] The drive unit 70 is provided in the drive unit space 800 and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via one end of the shaft 32.

[0644] like Figure 45As shown, the drive unit cover 80 has a cover body 81 that forms the drive unit space 800, and cover fixing parts (821-826) that are formed at a different location from the cover body 81 by protruding from the outer wall of the cover body 81 and are fixed to the cover fixing parts (291-296) on the housing side. Here, the cover fixing parts 821-826 are fixed to the cover fixing parts 291-296 on the housing side by fixing members 830, respectively.

[0645] The cover fixing portions (821-826) are formed such that they do not protrude outward from at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201. Here, the two ends of the housing body 21 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, namely the housing ends 215 and 216, are formed on the housing body 21 as different parts from the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296.

[0646] Therefore, the volume of the drive unit cover 80 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can also be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be mounted in the confined space A2 of the vehicle 1.

[0647] <4-5>

[0648] like Figure 45 As shown, with the housing body 21 mounted on the engine 2, the cover fixing portions 821 to 826 are formed such that they do not protrude outward from at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the horizontal direction, which is perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 and Dv1. That is, the cover fixing portions 821 to 826 are formed such that, compared to the housing end 215, they do not protrude in the thinnest direction of the housing body 21, i.e., in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0649] Therefore, the volume of the drive unit cover 80 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 (Dv1) and in the horizontal direction can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 (Dv1) and in the horizontal direction can also be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be mounted in a small space A2 in the narrow space in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 (Dv1) and in the horizontal direction.

[0650] <5-1> Gap between the fixing parts on the side of the shell

[0651] like Figure 47As shown, the housing 20 has housing-side fixing portions 251 to 256 integrally formed with the housing body 21. Here, the housing-side fixing portions 251 to 253 are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis Axr1 on the opposite side of the mounting surface 201, relative to the imaginary plane Vp5 which includes the rotation axis Axr1 and is parallel to the mounting surface 201. Furthermore, the housing-side fixing portions 254 to 256 are arranged in a direction parallel to the rotation axis Axr1 on the mounting surface 201 side, relative to the imaginary plane Vp5. That is, the imaginary plane Vp5 is sandwiched between the housing-side fixing portions 251 to 253 and the housing-side fixing portions 254 to 256.

[0652] Furthermore, the distance between housing-side fixing portions 251 and 252 is greater than the distance between housing-side fixing portions 252 and 253. The distance between housing-side fixing portions 254 and 255 is the same as the distance between housing-side fixing portions 255 and 256. Additionally, the distance between housing-side fixing portions 252 and 253 is smaller than the distance between housing-side fixing portions 255 and 256.

[0653] Furthermore, the housing-side fixing portion 251 is formed on the drive portion 70 side relative to the housing-side fixing portion 254 in the rotation axis Axr1 direction. The housing-side fixing portion 252 is formed on the housing-side fixing portion 256 side relative to the housing-side fixing portion 255 in the rotation axis Axr1 direction. The housing-side fixing portion 253 is formed on the side slightly opposite to the drive portion 70 relative to the housing-side fixing portion 256 in the rotation axis Axr1 direction.

[0654] Housing-side fastening holes 261-266 are formed in the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 respectively. Furthermore, the housing-side fastening holes 261-266 are generally cylindrical and are formed such that their axes are parallel to the mounting surface 201, the imaginary plane Vp5, and the vertical direction. Additionally, no threaded grooves are pre-formed on the inner peripheral walls of the housing-side fastening holes 261-266.

[0655] like Figure 47 As shown, the pipe component 50 includes pipe sections 511-514, a pipe connecting section 52, and pipe-side fixing sections 531-536. Pipe sections 511-513 are respectively configured such that their inner spaces communicate with outlet ports 221-223. Pipe section 514 is configured such that its inner space communicates with overflow port 224. Pipe sections 511 and 514 are integrally formed, and their inner spaces are interconnected. Furthermore, although pipe sections 512 and 514 are integrally formed to connect to each other via their outer walls, their inner spaces are not interconnected. The pipe connecting section 52 is integrally formed with pipe sections 511-514, connecting the ends of pipe sections 511-514 on the housing body 21 side to each other.

[0656] The tube-side fixing portions 531 to 536 are formed on the outer edge of the tube connecting portion 52 at positions corresponding to the housing-side fixing portions 251 to 256. Tube-side connecting holes 541 to 546 are formed in the tube-side fixing portions 531 to 536 respectively. Furthermore, the tube-side connecting holes 541 to 546 are generally cylindrical, and their axes are generally aligned with the axes of the housing-side connecting holes 261 to 266.

[0657] The valve device 10 includes a pipe fastening member 540. The pipe fastening member 540 passes through pipe-side fastening holes 541 to 546 and engages with housing-side fastening holes 261 to 266, thereby fixing the pipe-side fixing parts 531 to 536 and the housing-side fixing parts 251 to 256.

[0658] like Figure 48 , Figure 49 As shown, the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 are formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The housing-side fixing portions 251-256 are configured such that one axial end face is located on the same plane as the pipe mounting surface 202. The housing 20 has a housing connecting portion 259 that connects the outer peripheral wall of the other axial end face of the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 to the outer wall of the housing body 21. Thus, a housing gap Sh1 is formed between the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 and the outer wall of the housing body 21. The housing gap Sh1 is formed between the housing connecting portion 259 and the pipe-side fixing portions 531-536.

[0659] More specifically, the shell gap Sh1 is formed between the shell-side fixing parts 251-256 and the outer wall of the shell body 21 and the shell connection part 259 and the tube-side fixing parts 531-536.

[0660] Furthermore, the housing-side connecting holes 261 to 266 are respectively formed coaxially with the housing-side fixing portions 251 to 256. In addition, the ends of the housing-side connecting holes 261 to 266 on the side opposite to the tube member 50 are located closer to the tube member 50 than the housing connecting portion 259.

[0661] <5-1>

[0662] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a pipe component 50, and a pipe connecting component 540.

[0663] The housing 20 has: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; a housing side fixing part (251-256) integrally formed with the housing body 21; a housing side connecting hole (261-266) formed on the housing side fixing part; and ports (220, 221, 222, 223, 224) connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0664] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, and a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) that connects the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31. The valve body opening can change the connection state between the valve body internal flow path 300 and the port through the valve body opening according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0665] The tube component 50 has a cylindrical tube portion (511, 512, 513, 514) that communicates with the inner space and the port (221, 222, 223, 224), a tube-side fixing portion (531 to 536) integrally formed with the tube portion and fixed to the housing-side fixing portion, and a tube-side connecting hole (541 to 546) formed in the tube-side fixing portion.

[0666] The pipe fastening component 540 fixes the pipe-side fixing part (531-536) and the housing-side fixing part (251-256) by passing through the pipe-side fastening hole (541-546) and screwing into the housing-side fastening hole (261-266).

[0667] The housing side fixing part (251-256) forms a gap (Sh1) between itself and the outer wall of the housing body 21.

[0668] Therefore, when the pipe component 50 is tightly connected to the housing 20 by the pipe fastening component 540, even if the housing-side fixing part (251-256) breaks, the breakage can be prevented from reaching the housing body 21. Thus, leakage of cooling water that may occur due to the tight connection of the pipe component 50 to the housing 20 can be suppressed.

[0669] In this embodiment, since the outlet port 221 is connected to the radiator 5 and has a large flow rate, the leakage of cooling water can be effectively suppressed by suppressing the cracking of the housing side fixing parts (251-256), especially the housing side fixing parts 251 and 254 near the outlet port 221, to the housing body 21.

[0670] like Figure 47 As shown, the outlet port 221 is formed between the housing-side fixing portion 251 and the housing-side fixing portion 254. Here, the housing-side fixing portions 251 and 254 are formed closer to the outlet port 221 than the housing-side fixing portions 252, 253, 255, and 256, i.e., near the outlet port 221. Furthermore, the center of the outlet port 221 is located between two parallel tangents that are tangent to the outer edges of the housing-side connecting holes 261 and 264.

[0671] <5-2>

[0672] like Figure 42As shown, the housing 20 has outlet ports 221-223. (As indicated...) Figure 42 , Figure 50 , Figure 51 As shown, the pipe component 50 has interconnected pipe sections 511 to 513. The valve device 10 includes a plurality of sealing units 35 respectively provided in the pipe sections 511 to 513, which are capable of maintaining a liquid seal between the sealing unit and the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31.

[0673] Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced, such as with tapping. Furthermore, the assembly workload of pipe component 50 can be reduced.

[0674] The ends of the sealing units 35 in the tube sections 511 to 513 are connected to each other via the tube connection section 52. The ends of the sealing units 35 in the tube sections 511 to 513 are formed such that their respective axes are parallel to each other.

[0675] <5-2-1>

[0676] like Figure 42 As shown, the outlet ports 221-223, which are equipped with sealing units 35, are formed such that their respective axes are parallel and they are open on the pipe mounting surface 202. The outlet ports 221-223 are formed to be coaxial with the ends of the pipe sections 511-513 where the sealing units 35 are provided.

[0677] Therefore, the pipe component 50, which is assembled with multiple sealing units 35, can be assembled into the housing body 21 from one direction.

[0678] <5-3>

[0679] like Figure 42 , Figure 50 , Figure 51 As shown, the valve device 10 includes a gasket 509. The gasket 509 is formed of an elastic component such as rubber, and is provided on the radial outer side of each of the pipe sections 511 to 513 between the pipe section 50 and the pipe mounting surface 202 of the housing body 21, so as to keep the pipe section 50 and the housing body 21 liquid-tight.

[0680] like Figure 51 As shown, the tube component 50 can be assembled to the housing body 21 while the three sealing units 35 are held in the tube sections 511-513. Here, the gasket 509 is assembled to the housing body 21 together with the tube component 50 while being embedded in the gasket groove 521 formed in the tube connection section 52. That is, the tube component 50, which is equipped with multiple sealing units 35 and gaskets 509, can be assembled in one direction relative to the housing body 21 at once.

[0681] Furthermore, by assembling multiple components at once, the amount of assembly work can be reduced, thereby reducing multiple potential defects that might occur during the assembly of multiple components to a single defect, thus improving the quality of the valve device 10. This is important because devices mounted in vehicle 1 require high quality.

[0682] like Figure 50 As shown, the outer diameters of the three sealing units 35 respectively provided at pipe sections 511 to 513 are set according to the inner diameters of pipe sections 511 to 513. The outer diameter of the sealing unit 35 provided at pipe section 511 is larger than the outer diameter of the sealing units 35 provided at pipe sections 512 and 513. The outer diameter of the sealing unit 35 provided at pipe section 512 is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the sealing unit 35 provided at pipe section 513.

[0683] <5-4>

[0684] like Figure 47 As shown, the outlet ports 221 to 223 and the overflow port 224 are formed such that their centers are located on the straight line connecting two of the multiple housing-side connecting holes (261 to 266), or on the inside of the triangle formed by the three housing-side connecting holes.

[0685] Specifically, outlet port 221 is centered on the inner side of triangle To1, formed by connecting the centers of housing-side connecting holes 261, 262, and 264. Outlet port 222 is centered on the straight line Lo1 connecting the centers of housing-side connecting holes 262 and 265. Outlet port 223 is centered on the inner side of triangle To2, formed by connecting the centers of housing-side connecting holes 262, 263, and 266. Overflow port 224 is centered on the inner side of triangle To1.

[0686] Therefore, the sealing load of the gasket 509 on the radially outer side of the outlet ports 221-223 and the overflow port 224 can be dispersed and stabilized.

[0687] <5-5>

[0688] like Figure 42 As shown, the housing 20 has a pipe mounting surface 202 formed on the outer wall of the housing body 21, such that it faces the pipe component 50 when the pipe component 50 is mounted on the housing body 21. The ports formed on the housing body 21 include three outlet ports (221-223) and one overflow port 224 that open on the pipe mounting surface 202.

[0689] like Figure 47As shown, the valve device 10 includes an overflow valve 39. The overflow valve 39 is located at the overflow port 224 and allows or disconnects communication between the internal space 200 of the overflow port 224 and the outside of the housing body 21, depending on conditions. Specifically, the overflow valve 39 opens under specified conditions, such as when the temperature of the cooling water reaches a specified temperature or higher, allowing communication between the internal space 200 of the overflow port 224 and the outside of the housing body 21, i.e., the space inside the pipe section 511. When the temperature of the cooling water becomes lower than the specified temperature, the communication is disconnected.

[0690] like Figure 47 As shown, at least two of the three outlet ports (221-223) are configured such that the center of each opening is located on a straight line, namely the port arrangement line Lp1, on the pipe mounting surface 202. Here, the port arrangement line Lp1 is parallel to the mounting surface 201 and is located on the imaginary plane Vp5.

[0691] That is, at least two of the three outlet ports (221 to 223) are formed such that the centers of their respective openings are arranged in a straight line on the pipe mounting surface 202 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1.

[0692] The overflow port 224 is formed such that the center of the opening is located away from the port arrangement line Lp1 on the opposite side of the mounting surface 201.

[0693] like Figure 42 As shown, in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, the inlet port 220, the overflow port 224, and the intervalve space 400 overlap. Therefore, when the cooling water flowing in from the inlet port 220 is guided to the overflow port 224, the ball valves 41 and 42 can be prevented from becoming obstacles, and the temperature of the cooling water from the inlet port 220 can be smoothly transferred to the overflow valve 39, improving the responsiveness of the overflow valve 39.

[0694] Therefore, by arranging the three outlet ports (221 to 223) in a straight line, the volume of the housing body 21 can be reduced and an overflow port 224 can be formed in the housing body 21.

[0695] In addition, the overflow port 224 is formed on the housing body 21 in such a way that a portion of it is located between the outlet port 221 and the outlet port 222.

[0696] like Figure 47 As shown, a portion of the overflow port 224 is formed in the region formed by the two tangents connecting the outer edges of the outlet port 221 and the outer edges of the outlet port 222.

[0697] <5-6>

[0698] like Figure 47As shown, the arrangement is such that when viewed from the direction of the port arrangement line Lp1, at least two of the three outlet ports (221 to 223) and a portion of the overflow port 224 overlap.

[0699] Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 with the overflow port 224 can be further reduced.

[0700] <5-7>

[0701] like Figure 47 As shown, the overflow port 224 is formed such that the center of the opening is located on a straight line on the pipe mounting surface 202 that is parallel to the port arrangement line Lp1, namely the overflow configuration line Lr1. Here, the overflow configuration line Lr1 is located on the opposite side of the mounting surface 201 relative to the port arrangement line Lp1.

[0702] That is, the distance from the mounting surface 201 to the center of the overflow port 224 is greater than the distance from the mounting surface 201 to the centers of the outlet ports 221, 222, and 223.

[0703] When viewed from the direction of the port arrangement line Lp1, the portions of at least two of the three outlet ports (221 to 223) relative to the port arrangement line Lp1 and the portion of the overflow port 224 relative to the overflow port 224 and the portion of the overflow port 224 relative to the overflow port arrangement line Lp1 are partially overlapped.

[0704] That is, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, the portions of at least two of the three outlet ports (221 to 223) on the side opposite to the center of the mounting surface 201 overlap with the portion of the overflow port 224 on the side opposite to the center of the mounting surface 201.

[0705] In addition, when the centers of the three outlet ports form a triangle at the pipe mounting surface 202, from the direction of the rotation axis Axr1, the parts of the two outlet ports farther from the mounting surface 201 that are on the opposite side of the center relative to the mounting surface 201 overlap with the part of the overflow port 224 that is on the side of the center relative to the mounting surface 201.

[0706] Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 with the overflow port 224 can be further reduced.

[0707] <5-8>

[0708] like Figure 47As shown, at least two (261-263) of the plurality of housing-side connecting holes (261-266) are formed on a straight line Lh1, which is located on the overflow port 224 side relative to the port arrangement line Lp1. Here, the connecting hole arrangement line Lh1 is parallel to the port arrangement line Lp1 and the overflow configuration line Lr1, and is located on the opposite side of the port arrangement line Lp1 relative to the overflow configuration line Lr1.

[0709] like Figure 47 As shown, the overflow port 224 is formed to overlap a portion of the straight line Lh1 of the closely connected holes.

[0710] Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 with the overflow port 224 can be further reduced.

[0711] <5-9>

[0712] like Figure 50 As shown, pipe sections 511 to 513 have a pipe section body 501 and a pipe section end 502. The pipe section end 502 is formed on the side of the pipe section body 501 opposite to the outlet ports 221 to 223 (pipe connection 52). Its inner diameter is larger than the inner diameter of the pipe section body 501, and its outer diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the pipe section body 501.

[0713] Therefore, when the tube end 502 is formed, for example, by forceful demolding, the mold can be easily pulled out while the tube end 502 is easily deformed inward, thus suppressing the rupture of the tube end 502. This, in turn, suppresses the leakage of cooling water from the tube end 502.

[0714] In addition, since the outer diameter of the tube end 502 is larger than the outer diameter of the tube body 501, it is possible to prevent the hose or the like connected to the tube end 502 from falling off.

[0715] like Figure 42 As shown, pipe portion 511 is formed extending from pipe mounting surface 202 to the side opposite to outlet port 221. Pipe portion 512 is formed extending from pipe mounting surface 202 to the side opposite to outlet port 222. Pipe portion 513 is formed by extending from pipe mounting surface 202 to the side opposite to outlet port 223, then bending and extending in a direction parallel to the rotation axis Axr1 to the side opposite to pipe portion 512.

[0716] The tube portion 513 is formed to be bent at a position corresponding to the center of the tube portion 512 in the axial direction. Therefore, a gap Sp1 is formed between the tube portion 512 on the tube mounting surface 202 side and the tube portion 513.

[0717] <5-10>

[0718] like Figure 50As shown, the tube sections 511 to 513 have tube protrusions 503 that protrude outward from the outer wall of the tube body 501.

[0719] The protrusion 503 in the tube section allows for easy determination of the fixed position of the hose relative to the tube sections 511-513, and also prevents the hose from penetrating too deeply into the tube sections 511-513.

[0720] <5-11>

[0721] like Figure 47 As shown, the tube protrusion 503 is formed on an imaginary plane Vp5 that is parallel to the mounting surface 201.

[0722] That is, such as Figure 47 As shown, when viewed axially from the outlet ports 221 to 223, the tube protrusions 503 are formed in a straight line along the direction of the rotation axis Axr1.

[0723] Therefore, the size of the pipe component 50 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 can be reduced.

[0724] Additionally, there is one tube protrusion 503 for tube section 511. There are two tube protrusions 503 that sandwich tube section 512. There are two tube protrusions 503 that sandwich tube section 513 (see reference). Figure 50 ).

[0725] Since it is only necessary to limit the position of the end of the hose in the tube section 511, only one tube section protrusion 503 is formed in the tube section 511. By forming only one tube section protrusion 503 in the tube section 511, material costs can be reduced. Alternatively, in other embodiments, two tube section protrusions 503 may be formed in the tube section 511.

[0726] <5-12>

[0727] like Figure 50 As shown, the pipe component 50 has a plurality of pipe sections (511 to 514) and a pipe connecting portion 52 that connects the portions of the plurality of pipe sections (511 to 514) to the housing body 21 side.

[0728] Therefore, the number of components can be reduced, and by placing a gasket 509 between the pipe connection 52 and the housing body 21, the sealing between the pipe component 50 and the housing body 21 can be ensured.

[0729] like Figure 50As shown, the pipe connection portion 52 is formed on the sealing unit 35 side relative to the pipe protrusion 503 formed on the pipe portions 511-513. Furthermore, the outer edge of the pipe connection portion 52 is formed to extend radially outward toward the end of the pipe portion 511-514 toward the pipe mounting surface 202 side (see reference). Figure 47 , Figure 50 ).

[0730] <5-13>

[0731] like Figure 42 As shown, the housing 20 has a housing opening 210 connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21, and a cylindrical housing inner wall 211 that is connected at one end to the housing opening 210 to form the internal space 200. The valve 30 has a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1.

[0732] The valve device 10 includes a partition wall portion 60, which has a partition wall body 61 provided in the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and a shaft insertion hole 62 formed in the partition wall body 61 to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted.

[0733] The inner diameter of the housing opening 210 is larger than the inner diameter of the end of the housing inner wall 211 opposite to the housing opening 210.

[0734] Therefore, the flow area on the side of the housing opening 210 of the internal space 200 can be increased. As a result, the flow rate of cooling water flowing, especially to the outlet port 221 (radiator 5) formed on the side of the housing opening 210, can be increased.

[0735] <5-13-1>

[0736] like Figure 42 As shown, an annular sealing member 600 is provided between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall body 61 of the partition wall 60, which is capable of keeping the housing opening 210 and the partition wall 60 liquid-tight.

[0737] Therefore, if the inner diameter of the housing opening 210 is fixed, a standard-shaped annular sealing component 600 with a fixed inner and outer diameter can be used, which can reduce costs.

[0738] <5-14>

[0739] like Figure 42 As shown, the inner wall 211 of the housing is formed in a conical shape so that the inner diameter decreases as it moves from the side of the housing opening 210 toward the side opposite to the housing opening 210.

[0740] Therefore, the flow area of ​​the internal space 200 can gradually increase towards the side of the shell opening 210. In addition, by not forming a step on the inner wall 211 of the shell, the water flow resistance in the internal space 200 can be reduced.

[0741] <5-15>

[0742] like Figure 47 As shown, at least two of the multiple ports (outlet ports 221 to 223) formed in the housing body 21 are arranged in a direction parallel to the mounting surface 201.

[0743] Therefore, the size of the housing body 21 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 can be reduced.

[0744] <5-16>

[0745] like Figure 49 As shown, the tube fastening component 540 is a self-tapping screw that can be tapped and screwed into the fastening holes 261 to 266 on the housing side.

[0746] Therefore, it is not necessary to mold inserts such as metal parts with threaded grooves into the housing-side fixing portions 251-256. Furthermore, since a housing gap Sh1 is formed between the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 and the outer wall of the housing body 21, even if the housing-side fixing portions 251-256 break when the pipe fastening member 540 is screwed into the housing-side fastening holes 261-266, the breakage can be prevented from reaching the housing body 21.

[0747] <6-1> Partition wall through hole

[0748] like Figure 52 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall through hole 65 that extends outward from the shaft insertion hole 62 and opens on the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61.

[0749] <6-1>

[0750] As described above, this embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of the vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, and a drive unit 70.

[0751] The housing 20 has: a housing body 21 forming an internal space 200 on the inside; ports (220, 221, 222, 223) connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21; and a housing opening 210 connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0752] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, a valve body internal flow path 300 formed inside the valve body 31, a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) connecting the valve body internal flow path 300 to the outside of the valve body 31, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1. The valve body 300 can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path 300 and the port through the valve body opening according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0753] The partition 60 has a partition body 61 provided in the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and a shaft insertion hole 62 formed in the partition body 61 to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted.

[0754] The drive unit 70 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, and can rotate the valve body 31 via one end of the shaft 32.

[0755] The partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall through hole 65 that extends outward from the shaft insertion hole 62 and opens into the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61.

[0756] Therefore, cooling water flowing from the internal space 200 through the shaft insertion hole 62 toward the drive unit 70 can flow into the partition wall through hole 65. This prevents the cooling water in the internal space 200 from flowing toward the drive unit 70.

[0757] <6-1-1>

[0758] The through hole 65 of the partition wall is formed such that the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the axis is oblong or rectangular.

[0759] Therefore, the volume of the partition body 61 can be reduced, and the influence of the surface tension of the partition through hole 65 can be suppressed, making it easier for cooling water to flow in the partition through hole 65.

[0760] Furthermore, the partition wall through hole 65 is formed such that the shorter direction of its cross-section is parallel to the axis Axh1 of the shaft insertion hole 62. Therefore, the volume of the partition wall body 61 in the axis Axh1 direction can be reduced.

[0761] <6-2>

[0762] like Figure 52 As shown, the housing 20 has a housing through hole 270 that extends outward from the inner wall of the housing opening 210 and opens on the outer wall of the housing body 21, and is able to communicate with the partition through hole 65. In addition, the housing through hole 270 opens on the end face of the housing body 21 opposite to the tube mounting surface 202.

[0763] Therefore, cooling water flowing into the partition wall through-hole 65 can be discharged to the outside through the housing through-hole 270. Furthermore, the dual structure of the partition wall through-hole 65 and the housing through-hole 270 can suppress the intrusion of water from the outside.

[0764] Here, when a large amount of cooling water flows from the internal space 200 to the drive unit 70, the cooling water can be discharged to the outside through the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270, making the user aware of the cooling water leakage in the shaft insertion hole 62. This allows the user to address any leaks that require attention.

[0765] On the other hand, when the amount of cooling water flowing from the internal space 200 to the drive unit 70 is small, the cooling water can be accumulated in the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270, so that the user will not notice the leakage of cooling water in the shaft insertion hole 62. Thus, leakage can be suppressed so that the user can deal with leaks that do not need to be dealt with.

[0766] <6-2-1>

[0767] The through hole 270 of the housing is formed such that the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the axis is oblong or rectangular.

[0768] Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 can be reduced, and the influence of the surface tension of the housing through hole 270 can be suppressed, making it easier for cooling water to flow in the housing through hole 270.

[0769] Furthermore, the through hole 270 in the housing is formed such that the shorter direction of its cross-section is parallel to the axis Axh1 of the shaft insertion hole 62. Therefore, the volume of the housing body 21 in the axis Axh1 direction can be reduced.

[0770] <6-2-2>

[0771] like Figure 52 As shown, the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 are formed coaxially.

[0772] Therefore, the cooling water flowing into the partition through-hole 65 can be easily discharged to the outside through the housing through-hole 270.

[0773] <6-3>

[0774] like Figure 52 As shown, the valve device 10 includes a shaft sealing component 603 and an annular sealing component 600. The shaft sealing component 603 is formed into an annular shape, mainly from an elastic component such as rubber, and is disposed on the internal space 200 side relative to the partition wall through hole 65 between the shaft 32 and the shaft insertion hole 62, which can maintain the shaft 32 and the shaft insertion hole 62 as liquid-tight.

[0775] The annular sealing member 600 is formed into a ring shape from an elastic component such as rubber. It is disposed on the internal space 200 side relative to the housing through hole 270 between the inner wall of the partition wall body 61 and the inner wall of the housing opening 210, and is capable of maintaining a liquid-tight seal between the partition wall body 61 and the inner wall of the housing opening 210. Here, the shaft sealing member 603 and the annular sealing member 600 correspond to "first sealing member" and "second sealing member," respectively.

[0776] Therefore, the shaft seal member 603 can prevent cooling water from leaking from the internal space 200 to the drive unit 70 side through the shaft insertion hole 62. In addition, the annular seal member 600 can prevent cooling water from leaking from the internal space 200 to the outside through the space between the partition wall body 61 and the housing opening 210.

[0777] Furthermore, since the shaft seal component 603 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the partition wall through hole 65 toward the inner space 200, a space can be formed between the partition wall through hole 65 and the shaft seal component 603. Therefore, in the case of minimal cooling water leakage, cooling water can accumulate in this space without the user noticing.

[0778] Furthermore, since the annular sealing member 600 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the housing through-hole 270 toward the internal space 200, a space can be formed between the housing through-hole 270 and the annular sealing member 600. Therefore, in the case of minimal cooling water leakage, cooling water can accumulate in this space without the user noticing.

[0779] <6-4>

[0780] like Figure 52 As shown, the distance Ds1 between the shaft seal component 603 and the partition wall through hole 65 is shorter than the distance Ds2 between the annular seal component 600 and the housing through hole 270.

[0781] Therefore, the space formed between the housing through-hole 270 and the annular sealing member 600 can be larger than the space formed between the partition wall through-hole 65 and the shaft sealing member 603. As a result, more cooling water can be accumulated in the space formed between the housing through-hole 270 and the annular sealing member 600.

[0782] <6-5>

[0783] like Figure 52 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has an inner stepped surface 661 that forms a step between the partition wall through hole 65 in the shaft insertion hole 62 and the shaft seal member 603. Here, the inner stepped surface 661 is formed in an annular planar shape facing the internal space 200. The shaft seal member 603 is provided to abut against the inner stepped surface 661.

[0784] The housing 20 has a housing step surface 281 that forms a step between the housing through hole 270 on the inner wall of the housing opening 210 and the annular sealing member 600. Here, the housing step surface 281 is formed in an annular shape facing the drive part 70.

[0785] Therefore, when there is little leakage of cooling water, by accumulating the cooling water on the inner stepped surface 661 of the partition wall and the stepped surface 281 of the shell, the user can avoid noticing a small amount of leakage.

[0786] Furthermore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the housing through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like on the inner stepped surface 661 of the partition wall and the stepped surface 281 of the housing, it is possible to suppress the flow of water or the like to the shaft seal member 603 and the annular seal member 600.

[0787] <6-6>

[0788] like Figure 52 As shown, the shell step surface 281 is formed into a cone shape, and the inner diameter increases from the internal space 200 side toward the drive part 70 side.

[0789] Therefore, the space formed between the housing through hole 270 and the annular sealing member 600 can be increased, allowing more cooling water to accumulate in the space.

[0790] Additionally, the housing 20 has a housing step surface 282 on the drive portion 70 side of the housing through hole 270 on the inner wall of the housing opening 210, where a step is formed. The housing step surface 282 is formed in an annular shape facing the drive portion 70 side.

[0791] Furthermore, the partition wall portion 60 has an outer stepped surface 671 on the side of the drive portion 70 of the partition wall through hole 65 on the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61. The outer stepped surface 671 is formed in an annular shape facing the internal space 200 and the shell stepped surfaces 281, 282.

[0792] like Figure 52 As shown, a generally cylindrical space St1 is formed between the outer wall of the partition wall body 61 and the inner wall of the shell opening 210, and between the shell step surface 281 and the outer step surface 671 of the partition wall. The partition wall through hole 65 and the shell through hole 270 are connected through the cylindrical space St1.

[0793] With minimal cooling water leakage, cooling water can be stored in the cylindrical space St1.

[0794] like Figure 52As shown, in the housing opening 210, a housing step surface 281, a housing through hole 270, and a housing step surface 282 are sequentially formed from the internal space 200 side toward the drive unit 70 side. The annular sealing member 600 faces the internal space 200 side relative to the housing step surface 281.

[0795] like Figure 52 As shown, the inner edge of the end of the partition wall through hole 65 opposite to the shaft 32 is chamfered into a tapered shape. This allows cooling water inside the partition wall through hole 65 to be easily drained.

[0796] <6-8>

[0797] like Figure 52 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the partition through hole 65 is located on the lower side in the vertical direction relative to the shaft 32.

[0798] Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can flow rapidly into the partition through-hole 65.

[0799] <6-9>

[0800] like Figure 52 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the housing through hole 270 is located on the lower side in the vertical direction relative to the shaft 32.

[0801] Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can be rapidly discharged to the outside through the casing through-hole 270.

[0802] <6-10>

[0803] like Figure 52 As shown, the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 have different cross-sectional areas in a section perpendicular to the axis. Here, the cross-sectional area of ​​the housing through hole 270 is larger than that of the partition wall through hole 65.

[0804] Therefore, even if the housing body 21 and the partition wall portion 60 are misaligned, the communication between the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 can be ensured. Furthermore, since the cross-sectional area of ​​the housing through hole 270 is larger than that of the partition wall through hole 65, cooling water can be rapidly discharged from the housing through hole 270 to the outside. Additionally, it can prevent water and other contaminants from entering the shaft insertion hole 62 from the outside via the housing through hole 270 and the partition wall through hole 65.

[0805] <6-18>

[0806] like Figure 52 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the partition through hole 65 is located on the underside of the shaft 32.

[0807] Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can be rapidly directed to the through-hole 65 in the partition wall.

[0808] <6-19>

[0809] like Figure 52 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the housing through hole 270 is located on the underside of the shaft 32.

[0810] Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can be rapidly discharged to the outside through the casing through-hole 270.

[0811] The lower side of the shaft 32 mentioned here, for example, is the side lower than the horizontal plane of the shaft Axs1 that includes the shaft 32, meaning not only directly below the vertical direction of the shaft 32, but also the defined range of the lower side of the shaft 32.

[0812] <6-20>

[0813] If the downward direction of shaft Axs1 of shaft 32 is set to 0 degrees, the partition wall through hole 65 is formed in the range of 0 to 80 degrees in the circumferential direction of shaft 32. In this embodiment, the partition wall through hole 65 is formed in a direction extending from the side of shaft 32 towards 0 degrees. Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, cooling water can be quickly discharged.

[0814] Alternatively, the partition wall through-hole 65 can also be formed within a range of 30 to 80 degrees in the circumferential direction of the shaft 32. In this case, the angle of the partition wall through-hole 65 becomes relatively gentle, allowing cooling water to drain out as if seeping. Therefore, even in the event of an accidental leak of cooling water, it is possible to prevent the user from reacting to an abnormal situation with excessive sensitivity.

[0815] <6-21>

[0816] If the downward direction of the shaft Axs1 of the shaft 32 is set to 0 degrees, the housing through hole 270 is formed within the range of 0 to 80 degrees in the circumferential direction of the shaft 32. In this embodiment, the housing through hole 270 is formed such that it extends from the side of the shaft 32 towards 0 degrees. Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can be quickly discharged.

[0817] Furthermore, the housing through-hole 270, like the partition through-hole 65, can also be formed within a range of 30 to 80 degrees in the circumferential direction of the shaft 32. In this case, the angle of the housing through-hole 270 becomes somewhat gentle, allowing cooling water to drain out like seepage. Therefore, even in the event of an accidental cooling water leak, it is possible to prevent the user from reacting to an abnormal situation with excessive sensitivity.

[0818] (Seventh Embodiment)

[0819] exist Figure 53 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the seventh embodiment.

[0820] <6-5>

[0821] like Figure 53 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has an inner stepped surface 662 that forms a step between the partition wall through hole 65 of the shaft insertion hole 62 and the shaft sealing member 603. Here, the inner stepped surface 662 is formed in an annular planar shape facing the internal space 200. The inner stepped surface 662 is formed on the side of the partition wall through hole 65 relative to the inner stepped surface 661.

[0822] Therefore, a space can be formed between the inner stepped surface 662 of the partition wall and the shaft seal component 603. Thus, in the case of minimal cooling water leakage, by accumulating the cooling water in this space, the user can remain unaware of minor leaks.

[0823] Furthermore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the housing through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like in this space, it is possible to prevent the water or the like from flowing to the shaft seal member 603.

[0824] The housing step surface 281 is formed in an annular shape facing the internal space 200. The outer step surface 671 of the partition wall is formed in an annular shape between the housing step surface 281 and the annular sealing member 600, facing the drive part 70 and the housing step surface 281. Here, the outer step surface 671 of the partition wall and the housing step surface 281 are opposite each other and separated by a predetermined distance. Therefore, a labyrinth-like passage P1 is formed between the outer wall of the partition wall body 61 and the inner wall of the housing opening 210, and between the annular sealing member 600 and the housing through hole 270.

[0825] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the housing through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like in the passage P1, it is possible to suppress the flow of water or the like to the annular sealing member 600.

[0826] like Figure 53 As shown, in the radial direction of the housing opening 210, the height Hp1 of the portion of the labyrinthine passage P1 on the drive section 70 side is smaller than the height Hp2 of the portion of the passage P1 on the internal space 200 side. Therefore, viewed from the housing through-hole 270 side, the passage P1 changes from a narrower portion to a wider portion. Consequently, water is less likely to flow from the housing through-hole 270 side to the annular sealing member 600 side through the narrower portion of the passage P1. Furthermore, water is less likely to flow from the internal space 200 side to the housing through-hole 270 side through the narrower portion of the passage P1.

[0827] (Eighth Embodiment)

[0828] exist Figure 54 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the eighth embodiment. The position of the housing through-hole 270 in the eighth embodiment differs from that in the sixth embodiment.

[0829] <6-11>

[0830] like Figure 54 As shown, the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 are positioned differently relative to each other on the axis (Axh1) of the shaft insertion hole 62. Here, the housing through hole 270 is formed on the drive section 70 side relative to the partition wall through hole 65.

[0831] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the shell through-hole 270, it can suppress the flow of water or the like to the shaft insertion hole 62 through the partition through-hole 65.

[0832] <6-11-1>

[0833] like Figure 54 As shown, if the distance between the axis of the partition wall through hole 65 and the axis of the housing through hole 270 is set as L, and the size of the housing through hole 270 with the axis (Axh1) of the shaft insertion hole 62 pointing upward is set as D, then the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 are formed to satisfy the relationship D≦L≦10D.

[0834] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the shell through-hole 270, it can more effectively suppress the flow of water or the like to the shaft insertion hole 62 through the partition through-hole 65.

[0835] <6-12>

[0836] like Figure 54 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall outer stepped surface 671 that forms a step between the partition wall through hole 65 on the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61 and the housing through hole 270.

[0837] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the shell through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like on the outer stepped surface 671 of the partition wall, it is possible to suppress the flow of water or the like to the shaft insertion hole 62 side through the partition wall through-hole 65.

[0838] like Figure 54 As shown, the housing through-hole 270 is formed on the drive section 70 side relative to the housing step surface 282 and the outer step surface 671 of the partition wall. Here, the outer step surface 671 of the partition wall and the housing step surface 282 are opposite each other and separated by a predetermined distance. Therefore, a labyrinthine passage P2 is formed between the outer wall of the partition wall body 61 and the inner wall of the housing opening 210, and between the housing through-hole 270 and the partition wall through-hole 65.

[0839] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the shell through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like in the passage P2, it is possible to suppress the flow of water or the like to the shaft insertion hole 62 side through the partition through-hole 65.

[0840] like Figure 54 As shown, in the radial direction of the shell opening 210, the height Hp1 of the portion of the labyrinthine passage P2 on the drive section 70 side is smaller than the height Hp2 of the portion on the internal space 200 side of the passage P2. Therefore, viewed from the shell through-hole 270 side, the passage P2 changes from a narrower portion to a wider portion. Consequently, water is less likely to flow from the shell through-hole 270 side to the partition wall through-hole 65 side through the narrower portion of the passage P2. Furthermore, water is less likely to flow from the partition wall through-hole 65 side to the shell through-hole 270 side through the narrower portion of the passage P2.

[0841] In other embodiments, the height Hp1 of the portion of the labyrinthine passage P2 on the drive section 70 side can be greater than the height Hp2 of the portion on the internal space 200 side of the passage P2 in the radial direction of the housing opening 210. In this case, the passage P2 changes from a wider portion to a narrower portion when viewed from the housing through-hole 270 side. Therefore, external water that enters through the housing through-hole 270 is trapped in the narrower portion of the passage P2 and is difficult to flow to the partition wall through-hole 65 side. On the other hand, water on the partition wall through-hole 65 side can easily flow to the housing through-hole 270 side via the passage P2.

[0842] (9th embodiment)

[0843] exist Figure 55 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the ninth embodiment.

[0844] <6-13>

[0845] like Figure 55 As shown, the valve device 10 includes a bearing portion 602. The bearing portion 602 is provided on the drive portion 70 side with respect to the partition wall through hole 65 of the shaft insertion hole 62, and supports one end of the shaft 32.

[0846] Therefore, by directing the cooling water flowing from the internal space 200 to the drive section 70 to the partition wall through hole 65, it is possible to suppress the flow of cooling water to the bearing section 602.

[0847] <6-14>

[0848] like Figure 55 As shown, the shaft insertion hole 62 has a small diameter portion 621 with a bearing portion 602 disposed on the inner side, a large diameter portion 622 with an inner diameter larger than that of the small diameter portion 621 and a partition wall through hole 65, and an inner stepped surface 623 formed between the small diameter portion 621 and the large diameter portion 622.

[0849] The stepped surface 623 inside the through hole forms a ring shape facing the internal space 200. For example... Figure 55 As shown, a generally cylindrical space St2 is formed radially outside the shaft 32 between the shaft seal 603 and the bearing portion 602. The partition wall through hole 65 is connected to the cylindrical space St2.

[0850] Therefore, by accumulating the cooling water flowing from the internal space 200 to the drive section 70 into the cylindrical space St2, it is possible to suppress the flow of cooling water to the bearing section 602. Furthermore, even if water or the like intrudes from the outside through the housing through-hole 270, by accumulating such water or the like into the cylindrical space St2, it is possible to suppress the flow of such water or the like to the bearing section 602.

[0851] (10th Embodiment)

[0852] exist Figure 56 , Figure 57 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the 10th embodiment.

[0853] <6-15>

[0854] like Figure 56 , Figure 57 As shown, a step surface 651 is formed in the partition wall through hole 65, which forms a step between one end and the other end of the partition wall through hole 65.

[0855] The stepped surface 651 inside the partition wall through hole is formed such that, when the valve device 10 is installed on the engine 2, it faces downward in the vertical direction. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the lower vertical side of the partition wall through hole 65 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the upper vertical side.

[0856] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the shell through-hole 270, by accumulating the water or the like in the stepped surface 651 inside the partition wall through-hole, it is possible to prevent the water or the like from flowing into the shaft insertion hole 62.

[0857] (11th Embodiment)

[0858] exist Figure 58 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the 11th embodiment.

[0859] <6-15>

[0860] like Figure 58 As shown, the stepped surface 651 inside the partition wall through hole is formed such that, when the valve device 10 is installed on the engine 2, it faces upward in the vertical direction. As a result, the cross-sectional area of ​​the upper vertical direction of the partition wall through hole 65 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the lower vertical direction.

[0861] Therefore, in cases where cooling water leakage is minimal, by accumulating the cooling water within the stepped surface 651 of the partition wall through hole, the user can remain unaware of the small amount of leakage.

[0862] (12th implementation)

[0863] exist Figure 59 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the 12th embodiment.

[0864] <6-16>

[0865] like Figure 59 As shown, the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 are formed such that their respective axes are not orthogonal to the axis Axh1 of the shaft insertion hole 62.

[0866] Therefore, even if water or the like enters from the outside through the housing through-hole 270, it can prevent the water or the like from flowing to the shaft insertion hole 62 through the partition through-hole 65.

[0867] In addition, the partition wall through hole 65 and the housing through hole 270 are formed such that their axes intersect.

[0868] (13th implementation)

[0869] exist Figure 60 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the 13th embodiment.

[0870] <6-17>

[0871] like Figure 60 As shown, the partition wall through hole 65 is formed such that the cross-sectional area gradually increases from the radial inner side to the radial outer side of the shaft insertion through hole 62.

[0872] Therefore, in the event of significant cooling water leakage, the cooling water can be rapidly discharged to the outside through the casing through-hole 270 via the partition through-hole 65.

[0873] (14th embodiment)

[0874] exist Figures 61-77 The valve device of the 14th embodiment is shown in the figure.

[0875] In this embodiment, the shapes of the housing 20, valve 30, pipe component 50, drive cover 80, etc., are different from those in the first embodiment.

[0876] like Figure 61 As shown, the valve device 10 of this embodiment is installed in a narrow space A1, such that the drive cover 80 is vertically downward relative to the housing body 21, and the mounting surface 201 is opposite to the engine 2.

[0877] like Figure 65As shown, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, the base of one side h11 of the two sides (h11, h12) of the approximately triangular connecting portion 231 is formed at a position overlapping with the inlet port 220 when viewed in the longer direction of the housing body 21. Furthermore, the base of one side h21 of the two sides (h21, h22) of the connecting portion 232 is formed at a position overlapping with the inlet port 220 when viewed in the longer direction of the housing body 21.

[0878] That is, one of the starting positions of the connecting portions (231, 232) of the two closest connecting holes (241, 242) to the inlet port 220 is formed at a position overlapping with the inlet port 220 when viewed in the longer direction of the housing body 21.

[0879] Therefore, the housing body 21 can be stably fixed to the engine 2.

[0880] The base of one of the two sides (h31, h32) of the connecting portion 233 is formed in a position that does not overlap with the inlet port 220 when viewed in the longer direction of the housing body 21.

[0881] That is, one of the starting positions of the connecting portion (233) of the connecting hole (243) furthest from the inlet port 220 is formed in a position that does not overlap with the inlet port 220 when viewed in the longer direction of the housing body 21.

[0882] like Figure 65 As shown, within the region R1 enclosed by the straight lines Lth11 and Lth12 along the two sides (h11 and h12) of the connecting part 231, there are connecting holes (242 and 243) of two other connecting parts (232 and 233).

[0883] like Figure 65 As shown, the straight line along edge h11 of the connecting part 231 (i.e., edge line Lth11), the straight line along edge h21 of the connecting part 232 (i.e., edge line Lth21), and the straight line along edge h32 of the connecting part 233 (i.e., edge line Lth32) intersect with the entrance port 220.

[0884] That is, in each of the connecting holes 241 to 243, if the edges h11, h21, and h32 of the connecting portions 231 to 233 are extended, they will intersect with the inlet port 220.

[0885] like Figure 65 As shown, the side h32 of the connecting portion 233 of the connecting portion 243 furthest from the inlet port 220 on the side of the inlet port 220 has the smallest tilt angle relative to the longer direction of the housing body 21 compared with the other sides (h11, h12, h21, h22, h31).

[0886] like Figure 65 As shown, the positioning part 205 is formed on the extension line of the edge h12 of the connecting part 231. In addition, the positioning part 206 is formed on the extension line of the edge h22 of the connecting part 232.

[0887] That is, positioning parts (205, 206) that can position the housing body 21 by engaging with other components are formed on the extension line of the edge (h12, h22) of the connecting part (231, 232).

[0888] <2-12>

[0889] like Figures 79-82 As shown, the retaining component 73 has a snap-fit ​​part 731. (As indicated...) Figure 79 , Figure 80 As shown, the retaining member 73 is formed such that the snap-fit ​​part 731 is located radially outside the worm gear 712.

[0890] Therefore, the retaining member 73 of the first embodiment, which has two snap-fit ​​parts 731 formed on each side of the motor body 710 (see reference 73), is similar to the retaining member 73 of the first embodiment. Figures 87-89 Compared to the previous method, the volume of the retaining member 73 in the direction perpendicular to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71, i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, can be reduced. Therefore, the volume of the drive cover 80 and the valve device 10 in the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, Dv1, can be reduced.

[0891] Furthermore, in the first embodiment where two snap-fit ​​parts 731 are formed on each side of the motor body 710 (see reference 1), Figure 87 Compared to the previous method, since the motor 71 can be brought closer to the mounting surface 201, i.e., the engine 2, the vibration acting on the motor 71 is reduced, which can improve the robustness against wire breakage.

[0892] like Figures 61-65 As shown, the tube portion 512 of the tube component 50 is formed to be inclined and extend toward the drive cover 80.

[0893] <2-13>

[0894] like Figure 67 As shown, the retaining member 73 is formed such that the snap-fit ​​part 731 is located on the side of the tube member 50 relative to the rotation axis Axr1.

[0895] Therefore, the volume of the drive cover 80 in the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201 can be reduced, and interference between the drive cover 80 and the pipe part 50, especially the pipe part 512, can be suppressed.

[0896] In other embodiments, the snap-fit ​​portion 731 may also be located between the third gear 723 and the motor-side terminal 713 (see reference). Figure 80 , Figure 83 ).

[0897] In this case, the retaining member 73 of the first embodiment, which has two snap-fit ​​parts 731 formed on each side of the motor body 710 (see also...) Figures 87-89 Compared to the previous method, the volume of the retaining member 73 on the direction perpendicular to the shaft Axm1 of the motor 71, i.e., the direction perpendicular to the mounting surface 201, can be reduced.

[0898] exist Figures 90-102 The text indicates the valve 30 and a portion thereof in this embodiment.

[0899] The shape of the valve body 31 of the valve 30 in this embodiment is similar to that of the valve 30 in the first and third embodiments. The arrangement direction of the ball valve 41, cylindrical connecting portion 44, ball valve 42, cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and ball valve 43 in the valve 30 of this embodiment is different from that in the third embodiment, but the same as in the first embodiment. That is, the valve 30 of this embodiment has the ball valve 41, cylindrical connecting portion 44, ball valve 42, cylindrical valve connecting portion 45, and ball valve 43 arranged sequentially from the side opposite to the drive portion 70 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 toward the drive portion 70. The ball valves 41, 42, and 43 are respectively configured to open and close the outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 (see reference). Figure 67 ).

[0900] like Figure 93 , Figure 94 As shown, the valve body opening 410 of the ball valve 41 has a large opening 412 and an extended opening 413. The large opening 412 is formed such that it extends from one end of the first partition 33 in the circumferential direction toward the other end. The extended opening 413 is formed such that it extends from the other end of the large opening 412 to near the other end of the first partition 33 in the circumferential direction. The size of the extended opening 413 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 is smaller than the size of the large opening 412 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1. The opening area of ​​the valve body opening 410 is the area of ​​the combined opening areas of the large opening 412 and the extended opening 413.

[0901] Because the valve body opening 410 has an extended opening 413, the flow rate of cooling water to the radiator 5 can gradually increase during the initial opening of the outlet port 221. This helps to suppress rapid temperature changes in the cooling water caused by heat exchange in the radiator 5.

[0902] In this embodiment, only the valve body opening 410 has an extended opening 413. In contrast, in other embodiments, the same opening as the extended opening 413 may also be provided at the valve body openings 420 and 430. In this case, it is possible to suppress rapid temperature changes in the cooling water caused by heat exchange between the heater 6 and the device 7.

[0903] <3-29>

[0904] The size of the valve body opening 410 of the ball valve 41, which is the first ball valve, is larger than the size of the valve body opening 420 of the ball valve 42, which is the second ball valve, and the size of the valve body opening 430 of the ball valve 43, which is the third ball valve.

[0905] That is, the valve body openings 420 and 430 of ball valves 42 and 43, which are formed by two ball valves in succession, are smaller, while the valve body opening 410 of ball valve 41, which is formed as a single ball valve, is the largest.

[0906] Cooling water from inlet port 220 flows into the intervalve space 400 between ball valves 42, 43 and ball valve 41. The cooling water is then distributed to the sides of ball valves 42, 43 and ball valve 41. Here, if the amount of cooling water required on the sides of ball valves 42, 43 and ball valve 41 is uneven, proper distribution of cooling water cannot be achieved. Therefore, ball valve 41, which has the largest valve body opening 410, requires more cooling water and is not continuous with other ball valves 42, 43, which have smaller valve body openings 420, 430. That is, if the two ball valves were continuous, the amount of cooling water required for both ball valve openings would be needed; therefore, the smaller opening ball valves (42, 43) are made as continuous as possible.

[0907] <4-4>

[0908] like Figure 62 As shown, the housing 20 has a housing side cover fixing part (291-296) formed as a different part from the housing body 21, protruding from the outer wall of the housing body 21.

[0909] The drive unit cover 80 has a cover body 81 that forms the drive unit space 800, and a cover fixing part (821-826) that is formed at a different part from the cover body 81 and is fixed to the cover fixing part (291-296) on the housing side.

[0910] The cover fixing portions (821-826) are formed such that at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 does not protrude outward. In this embodiment, the cover fixing portions (821-826) are formed such that at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 does not protrude outward. Here, the two ends of the housing body 21 in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201, namely the housing ends 215, 216, are formed on the housing body 21 as different parts from the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296.

[0911] Therefore, the volume of the drive unit cover 80 in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201, Dp1, can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the direction parallel to the mounting surface 201, Dp1, can also be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be mounted in the confined space A1 of the vehicle 1.

[0912] In this embodiment, the direction Dp1 parallel to the mounting surface 201 is a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction, that is, a direction parallel to the horizontal direction. Furthermore, the direction Dp1 parallel to the mounting surface 201 is perpendicular to the direction Dv1 perpendicular to the mounting surface 201.

[0913] <4-5>

[0914] like Figure 62 As shown, with the housing body 21 mounted on the engine 2, the cover fixing portions 821-826 are formed such that they do not protrude outward from at least one of the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the horizontal direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 (Dp1). In this embodiment, the cover fixing portions 821-826 are formed such that they do not protrude outward from the two ends (215, 216) of the housing body 21 in the horizontal direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 (Dp1). That is, the cover fixing portions 821-826 are formed such that, compared to the housing ends 215, 216, they do not protrude in the direction Dp1, which is the thinnest direction of the housing body 21 and parallel to the mounting surface 201.

[0915] Therefore, the volume of the drive unit cover 80 in the horizontal direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 (Dp1) can be reduced, and the volume of the valve device 10 in the horizontal direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 (Dp1) can also be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be mounted in a narrow space A1 in the horizontal direction parallel to the mounting surface 201 (Dp1).

[0916] In this embodiment, the valve device 10 is disposed in the narrow space A1 (see reference) between the alternator 12 and the intake manifold 11. Figure 2 , Figure 62Therefore, by reducing the volume of valve device 10 in the direction Dp1 parallel to the mounting surface 201, valve device 10 can be installed in a small space A1 without interfering with alternator 12 and intake manifold 11.

[0917] <7-1> Shell Side Cover Fixing Part

[0918] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a pipe component 50, a partition 60, a drive unit cover 80, a drive unit 70, and a fixing component 830.

[0919] like Figure 61 , Figure 62 , Figures 64-68 , Figures 73-78 As shown, the housing 20 has: a housing body 21, which forms an internal space 200 on its inner side; ports (220, 221, 222, 223, 224) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21; housing side cover fixing portions 291 to 296 that are formed as different parts from the housing body 21 in a way that protrudes from the outer wall of the housing body 21; and housing side cover connecting holes 290 formed in the housing side cover fixing portions 291 to 296.

[0920] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1, and can open and close the ports (221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0921] The tube component 50 has a cylindrical tube portion (511, 512, 513, 514) that communicates with the inner space and the ports (221, 222, 223, 224) and is mounted on the housing body 21.

[0922] The partition 60 is configured to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and has a shaft insertion hole 62 formed so that one end of the shaft 32 can be inserted through it.

[0923] The drive unit cover 80 is disposed on the side opposite to the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, and has a cover body 81 that forms a drive unit space 800 between the cover body 80 and the partition wall 60, cover fixing parts 821 to 826 that are formed as different parts from the cover body 81 by protruding from the outer wall of the cover body 81, and cover fastening holes 831 to 836 formed in the cover fixing parts 821 to 826.

[0924] The drive unit 70 is provided in the drive unit space 800 and can drive the valve body 31 to rotate via one end of the shaft 32.

[0925] The fixing component 830 passes through the cover fastening holes 831-836 and is screwed into the cover fastening hole 290 on the housing side, thereby fixing the cover fixing part 821-826 to the housing side cover fixing part 291-296.

[0926] The housing side cover fixing portions 291 to 296 have a cover fixing base 298 protruding from the outer wall of the housing body 21, and a cover fixing protrusion 299 protruding from the cover fixing base 298 toward the cover fixing portions 821 to 826 and fixed to the cover fixing portions 821 to 826.

[0927] like Figure 64 As shown, at least a portion of the tube component 50 is located on the opposite side of the cover fixing protrusion 299 relative to the cover fixing base 298.

[0928] In this way, since the cover fixing protrusion 299 is formed to protrude from the cover fixing base 298 to the side opposite to the tube member 50, interference between the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296 and the tube member 50 can be suppressed, and the degree of freedom of mounting the tube member 50 can be improved. In addition, the volume in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve device 10 can be reduced. Therefore, the valve device 10 can be easily mounted in the confined space A1 of the vehicle 1.

[0929] Furthermore, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the tube component 50 is located on the opposite side of the cover fixing protrusion 299 relative to the cover fixing base 298 of the housing side cover fixing portions 291-293 (see reference). Figure 64 wait).

[0930] <7-2>

[0931] like Figure 73 As shown, the cover fixing protrusion 299 forms a cover gap Sc1 between itself and the outer wall of the cover body 81.

[0932] Therefore, when the drive unit cover 80 is tightly connected to the housing 20 via the fixing member 830, even if the cover fixing protrusion 299 of the housing side cover fixing part 291 to 296 breaks, the breakage can be prevented from reaching the housing body 21. Thus, leakage of cooling water that may occur due to the tight connection of the drive unit cover 80 to the housing 20 can be effectively suppressed.

[0933] <7-3>

[0934] like Figure 73 As shown, the axial length L4 of the housing side cover connecting hole 290 is shorter than the length L3. The length L3 is the sum of the length L1 of the cover fixing base 298 and the length L2 of the cover fixing protrusion 299 along the axial direction of the housing side cover connecting hole 290. That is, L4 <L3=L1+L2。

[0935] Therefore, the strength of the housing side cover fixing parts 291 to 296 can be ensured.

[0936] <7-4>

[0937] like Figure 73 As shown, the axial length L5 of the fixing member 830 inside the housing side cover connecting hole 290 is shorter than the axial length L4 of the housing side cover connecting hole 290. That is, L5 <L4。

[0938] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the housing side cover fixing portions 291 to 296 from breaking when the fixing member 830 is screwed into the housing side cover fastening hole 290. In addition, since the front end of the fixing member 830 will not jump out to the side opposite to the cover fixing protrusion 299 relative to the cover fixing base 298, it is possible to prevent the front end of the fixing member 830 from interfering with the tube member 50.

[0939] <7-5>

[0940] like Figure 73 As shown, the fixing component 830 is a self-tapping screw that can simultaneously tap and screw into the housing side cover connecting hole 290.

[0941] Therefore, it is not necessary to mold inserts such as metal parts with threaded grooves into the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296. Furthermore, since an inter-cover gap Sc1 is formed between the cover fixing protrusion 299 of the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296 and the outer wall of the cover body 81, even if the housing side cover fixing portions 291-296 break when the fixing member 830 is screwed into the housing side cover connecting hole 290, the breakage can be prevented from reaching the housing body 21.

[0942] In addition, the axial length L5 of the fixing member 830 inside the tight-fitting hole 290 of the housing side cover corresponds to the tapping length of the fixing member 830.

[0943] like Figure 64 As shown, the tube portion 512 extends toward the drive cover 80. The tube portion 512 extends toward one of the two sides of the housing body 21 in the shorter direction, where a connecting portion (231) is provided. The tube portion 512 extends toward the housing end 215, which is the end of the housing body 21 that is farther from the rotation axis Axr1 from the two ends (215, 216) in the direction Dp1 parallel to the mounting surface 201, that is, the end of the housing body 21 that protrudes in the direction Dp1 from the outer wall of the part forming the internal space 200.

[0944] The tube portion 512 extends from the outlet port 222, which is the middle port among the outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 arranged in a straight line in the housing body 21. The tube portion 512 extends from the outlet port 222, which is the port near the drive cover 80 at the center in the longer direction relative to the housing body 21.

[0945] The front end of the tube 512 is located on the opposite side of the housing body 21, which is closer to the housing body 21 than the housing protrusion 219. The front end of the tube 512 is located on the opposite side of the cover fixing base 298 of the housing side cover fixing part 293, which is opposite to the cover fixing protrusion 299.

[0946] like Figure 62 As shown, housing side cover fixing portions 291 to 293 are formed on the pipe member 50 side relative to an imaginary plane Vp6 containing the rotation axis Axr1 and parallel to the mounting surface 201. Housing side cover fixing portions 294 to 296 are formed on the mounting surface 201 side relative to the imaginary plane Vp6.

[0947] The housing side cover fixing parts 291 and 296 are formed on the front end side of the tube section 516 relative to the imaginary plane Vp7 that includes the rotation axis Axr1 and is perpendicular to the mounting surface 201. The housing side cover fixing parts 292 to 295 are formed on the front end side of the tube section 512 relative to the imaginary plane Vp7.

[0948] The gap Sc1 is formed between the cover fixing protrusion 299 of the shell side cover fixing parts 291 to 296 formed as described above and the outer wall of the cover body 81.

[0949] <8-1> Foreign Object Accumulation Section

[0950] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a partition 60, and a drive unit 70.

[0951] The housing 20 has: a housing body 21 forming an internal space 200 on the inside; ports (220, 221, 222, 223) connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21; and a housing opening 210 connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0952] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200 and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1, and can open and close ports (221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0953] The partition 60 has a partition body 61 provided in the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and a shaft insertion hole 62 formed in the partition body 61 to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted.

[0954] The drive unit 70 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition wall 60, and can rotate the valve body 31 via one end of the shaft 32.

[0955] like Figure 69 As shown, valve 30 has a first limiting protrusion 332 and a second limiting protrusion 342 formed on valve body 31 as the restricted portion.

[0956] like Figure 69 , Figure 103 , Figure 104 As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has: an annular limiting recess 63, recessed radially outward from the interior space 200 side of the partition wall portion body 61 facing the drive portion 70; a limiting portion 631, formed in a circumferential part of the limiting recess 63, which can limit the rotation of the valve body 31 by abutting against the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342; and a foreign matter accumulation portion 68, recessed from the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 toward the drive portion 70.

[0957] Therefore, foreign objects present in the limiting recess 63 and foreign objects accumulated on the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 can be deposited into the foreign object accumulation portion 68. This allows foreign objects to be moved away from the first limiting protrusion 332, the second limiting protrusion 342, and the limiting portion 631, which are the restricted portions, and prevents foreign objects from getting stuck between the first limiting protrusion 332, the second limiting protrusion 342, and the limiting portion 631. Therefore, the deterioration of the driving accuracy of the valve body 31 caused by the accumulation of foreign objects in the limiting portion 631 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the deterioration of the sensor accuracy of the rotation angle sensor 86 caused by the accumulation of foreign objects in the limiting portion 631 can be suppressed.

[0958] <8-2>

[0959] like Figure 103 , Figure 104 As shown, the limiting recess 63 has an inner cylinder wall surface 632 formed on the radially inner side as a cylindrical wall surface, and an outer cylinder wall surface 633 formed on the radially outer side as a cylindrical wall surface.

[0960] Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign objects in the confining recess 63 from entering the shaft insertion hole 62. As a result, the sealing performance of the shaft sealing component 603 can be ensured.

[0961] <8-3>

[0962] like Figure 103 , Figure 104As shown, at least a portion of the foreign matter accumulation portion 68 is formed on the outer cylinder wall surface 633 side relative to the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63.

[0963] Therefore, foreign objects on the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 can be guided to the foreign object accumulation portion 68 radially outward of the limiting recess 63, causing the foreign objects to move away from the shaft insertion hole 62. This ensures the sealing performance of the shaft sealing component 603.

[0964] <8-5>

[0965] like Figure 69 As shown, the inner cylinder wall surface 632 can guide the rotation of the valve body 31 by sliding with the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342, which are the restricted parts.

[0966] Therefore, the rotation of the valve body 31 can be stabilized. In addition, by accumulating foreign matter in the foreign matter accumulation part 68, it is possible to suppress the foreign matter from getting stuck between the inner cylinder wall surface 632 and the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342, and suppress the deterioration of the sliding properties of the inner cylinder wall surface 632 and the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342.

[0967] <8-6>

[0968] like Figure 103 , Figure 104 As shown, the limiting part 631 is formed by extending from the inner cylinder wall surface 632 to the outer cylinder wall surface 633.

[0969] Therefore, the strength of the limiting part 631 can be ensured.

[0970] <8-7>

[0971] like Figure 103 , Figure 104 As shown, the length L11 of the radially restricting portion 631 of the restricting recess 63 is greater than the length L12 of the radially foreign matter accumulation portion 68 of the restricting recess 63.

[0972] Therefore, the strength of the limiting part 631 can be ensured.

[0973] <8-12>

[0974] like Figure 104 As shown, the foreign matter accumulation portion 68 is formed in a C-shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis of the shaft insertion hole 62.

[0975] Therefore, a partition wall through hole 65 can be formed between the circumferential ends of the foreign matter accumulation section 68.

[0976] <8-13>

[0977] like Figure 103 , Figure 104As shown, the partition wall portion 60 has a partition wall through hole 65 extending outward from the shaft insertion hole 62 and opening on the outer wall of the partition wall portion body 61. The partition wall through hole 65 is formed between the circumferential ends of the foreign matter accumulation portion 68.

[0978] Therefore, it is possible to make effective use of space and to miniaturize the main body 61 of the partition section.

[0979] <8-14>

[0980] like Figure 104 As shown, the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 is formed such that the circumferential length L21 between the circumferential ends of the foreign matter accumulation portion 68 increases as it moves toward the radially outward.

[0981] Therefore, the strength of the portion of the outer cylinder wall 633 side of the partition body 61 can be ensured between the circumferential ends of the foreign matter accumulation portion 68.

[0982] <8-15>

[0983] like Figure 103 , Figure 104 As shown, the limiting portion 631 is formed such that it extends radially outward on the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63.

[0984] <8-16>

[0985] like Figure 104 As shown, the limiting portion 631 is formed such that its circumferential length L22 increases as it moves toward the radially outer side of the limiting recess 63.

[0986] Therefore, the strength of the portion of the outer cylinder wall 633 side of the limiting part 631 can be ensured.

[0987] <8-17>

[0988] like Figure 67 , Figure 103 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the foreign matter accumulation part 68 is located on the lower side of the valve body 31.

[0989] More specifically, the foreign matter accumulation section 68 is located on the lower side in the vertical direction relative to the valve body 31.

[0990] Therefore, the foreign matter accumulation portion 68 is located below the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63. This allows foreign matter within the limiting recess 63 to be effectively guided towards the foreign matter accumulation portion 68.

[0991] The partition body 61 is the same as the shell body 21, for example, formed of "PPS-GF50".

[0992] Therefore, it can improve the heat resistance, water absorption resistance, strength, and dimensional accuracy of the partition body 61.

[0993] <9-1> Flow path of shaft bearing section

[0994] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, and a shaft bearing portion 90.

[0995] The housing 20 has a housing body 21 that forms an internal space 200 on the inside, and ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[0996] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate around a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200 and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1, and can open and close ports (221, 222, 223) according to the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[0997] like Figures 105-107 As shown, the shaft bearing portion 90 includes: a bearing portion body 91, which extends in a cylindrical shape from the inner wall of the housing body 21 that forms the internal space 200, which is the inner wall opposite to the end of the shaft 32, i.e., the opposing inner wall 213, and is capable of supporting the end of the shaft 32 on the inside; and a bearing portion flow path 92, which is formed by connecting the inner peripheral wall and the outer peripheral wall of the bearing portion body 91.

[0998] Therefore, even if air accumulates inside the bearing body 91, it can be discharged to the outside of the bearing body 91 via the bearing flow path 92. This prevents the end of the shaft 32 and the shaft bearing portion 90 from sliding in a dry state. Consequently, wear on the end of the shaft 32 or the shaft bearing portion 90 can be suppressed.

[0999] <9-2>

[1000] like Figure 107 As shown, the bearing section flow path 92 is formed to extend from the portion of the bearing section body 91 on the side of the opposing inner wall 213 to the end on the opposite side of the opposing inner wall 213.

[1001] Therefore, even if air accumulates inside the bearing body 91, it can be quickly discharged to the outside of the bearing body 91 via the bearing flow path 92.

[1002] <9-3>

[1003] like Figure 105 , Figure 106 As shown, the valve body 31 has a valve body end hole 314, which is formed such that the end of the shaft 32 and the bearing body 91 are located inside the valve body end hole 314.

[1004] Therefore, by arranging the bearing body 91 inside the end hole 314 of the valve body, the volume of the housing body 21 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 can be reduced. As a result, the valve device 10 can be miniaturized.

[1005] <9-4>

[1006] like Figure 105 , Figure 106 As shown, the shaft bearing section 90 has a cylindrical inner bearing section 93 located inside the bearing section body 91, which can provide shaft support for the end of the shaft 32 inside.

[1007] Therefore, it can suppress the wear of the bearing body 91.

[1008] <9-5>

[1009] like Figure 105 , Figure 106 As shown, the valve body 31 has a valve body end hole 314, which is formed such that the end of the shaft 32 and the bearing body 91 are located inside the end hole 314. The shaft bearing body 90 has a cylindrical inner bearing body 93 located inside the bearing body 91, which can support the end of the shaft 32 from the inside. The difference between the inner diameter of the valve body end hole 314 and the outer diameter of the bearing body 91 is less than the difference between the inner diameter of the bearing body 91 and the outer diameter of the end of the shaft 32.

[1010] That is, the cylindrical gap S1 between the valve body end hole 314 and the bearing body 91 is relatively small and is not formed to a degree that allows cooling water to flow actively.

[1011] <9-6>

[1012] like Figure 105 , Figure 106 As shown, with the housing 20 installed on the engine 2, the shaft bearing portion 90 is located on the lower side of the opposing inner wall 213.

[1013] More specifically, the shaft bearing portion 90 is located on the lower side in the vertical direction relative to the opposing inner wall 213.

[1014] Therefore, since the shaft bearing portion 90 is located on the upper vertical side of the internal space 200, air in the cooling water within the internal space 200 tends to accumulate inside the bearing portion body 91. However, even if air accumulates inside the bearing portion body 91, it can be discharged to the outside of the bearing portion body 91 via the bearing portion flow path 92.

[1015] In this embodiment, the bearing body 91 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The bearing flow path 92 is formed extending from the end of the bearing body 91 on the side opposite to the inner wall 213 to the end on the opposite side of the inner wall 213. Two bearing flow paths 92 are formed at equal intervals along the circumference of the bearing body 91, sandwiching the shaft of the bearing body 91 (see reference). Figure 107 ).

[1016] like Figure 107 As shown, a bearing notch 931 is formed in the inner bearing portion 93. The inner bearing portion 93 is formed into a generally cylindrical shape, for example, from a resin such as PPS. The bearing notch 931 is formed to connect the inner peripheral wall of the inner bearing portion 93 to the outer peripheral wall and extends from one end of the inner bearing portion 93 to the other end.

[1017] Therefore, even if air accumulates inside the inner bearing portion 93, it can be discharged to the outside of the inner bearing portion 93 via the bearing notch 931. Furthermore, by forming the bearing notch 931 in the inner bearing portion 93, the inner bearing portion 93 can be easily positioned between the end of the shaft 32 and the bearing body 91.

[1018] The bearing notch 931 is formed to extend at an angle relative to the axis of the inner bearing portion 93 from one end to the other end.

[1019] Therefore, at any circumferential location of the inner bearing portion 93, regardless of its axial position, the inner circumferential wall of the inner bearing portion 93 can abut against the outer circumferential wall of the end of the shaft 32. Thus, in the structure in which the bearing notch 931 is formed in the inner bearing portion 93, the shaft 32 can be stably axially supported.

[1020] like Figure 105 , Figure 106 As shown, the bearing body 91 is formed to extend to the lower side of the end of the outlet port 221 that is vertically above it. That is, the front end of the bearing body 91 is located lower than the end of the outlet port 221 that is vertically above it.

[1021] Therefore, air inside the bearing body 91 can be easily discharged to the outside of the housing body 21 via the outlet port 221.

[1022] <10-1> Inner wall of a non-circular shell

[1023] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20 and a valve 30.

[1024] The housing 20 has a housing body 21 with a cylindrical housing inner wall 211 forming an internal space 200 on the inside, and ports (220, 221, 222, 223) that open on the housing inner wall 211 and connect the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[1025] like Figure 67 , Figure 108 As shown, the valve 30 has a valve body 31 that can rotate within the internal space 200 about a rotation axis Axr1 along the inner wall 211 of the housing, and a valve body opening (410, 420, 430) formed by connecting the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of the valve body 31, and can open and close the port according to the rotation position of the valve body 31. In this embodiment, the axis Axn1 and the rotation axis Axr1 are the same.

[1026] like Figure 108 , Figure 109 As shown, the inner wall 211 of the shell is formed such that the distance Dna1 from the axis Axn1 is different in the circumferential direction.

[1027] Therefore, when the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis Axr1 is circular, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is different in the circumferential direction. That is, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is not constant in the circumferential direction, and the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing has a larger portion (gap Sb01) and a smaller portion (gap Sb02) in the circumferential direction (see reference). Figure 109 Therefore, even if foreign matter in the cooling water of the internal space 200 enters the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing, the foreign matter will move to the larger gap Sb01 due to the rotation of the valve body 31, and can be easily discharged from the gap Sb01. Thus, malfunction of the valve body 31 caused by the continuous accumulation of foreign matter in the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing can be suppressed. Furthermore, the increase in load torque related to the drive of the valve body 31 and the increase in pressure loss resistance can be suppressed.

[1028] <10-2>

[1029] like Figure 108 , Figure 109 As shown, the valve body 31 is formed such that the distance Dga1 from the rotation axis Axr1 to the outer peripheral wall is the same in the circumferential direction. That is, the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 is formed to be circular in a cross-section perpendicular to the rotation axis Axr1.

[1030] Therefore, as described above, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is different in the circumferential direction. The gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing has a larger portion (gap Sb01) and a smaller portion (gap Sb02) in the circumferential direction. Therefore, it is possible to suppress malfunction of the valve body 31 caused by the continuous accumulation of foreign matter in the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing.

[1031] <10-3>

[1032] like Figure 108 As shown, the inner wall 211 of the shell is formed to be non-circular in a cross section perpendicular to the axis Axn1.

[1033] Therefore, the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing has a larger portion (gap Sb01) and a smaller portion (gap Sb02) in the circumferential direction.

[1034] <10-4>

[1035] like Figure 108 As shown, the inner wall 211 of the shell is formed as a polygon in a cross section perpendicular to the axis Axn1.

[1036] Therefore, the cross-section of the inner wall 211 of the housing can be made close to a circle to reduce the radial volume of the housing body 21, and a larger portion (gap Sb01) and a smaller portion (gap Sb02) are formed in the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing.

[1037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the inner wall 211 of the housing is formed to be octagonal in a cross-section perpendicular to the axis Axn1. Moreover, the connecting portions of each side of the octagonal inner wall 211, i.e., the corners 214, are smooth curves (see reference). Figure 108 , Figure 109 ).

[1038] Therefore, the radial volume of the housing body 21 can be further reduced. In addition, the accumulation of foreign matter at the corners 214 of the inner wall 211 of the housing can be suppressed.

[1039] <10-5>

[1040] like Figure 67 As shown, in the section containing the largest outer diameter of the valve body 31, and perpendicular to the axis Axn1 of the inner wall 211 of the housing (e.g. Figure 67 In the cross-section of the surface represented by Pd1, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is different in the circumferential direction.

[1041] Therefore, in the "largest part of the outer diameter of the valve body 31" where the influence of foreign objects is greater, foreign objects can be discharged from the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing.

[1042] <10-6>

[1043] like Figure 67 As shown, the portion other than the portion in the inner wall 211 of the housing with ports (220, 221, 222, 223) and the portion in the valve body 31 with valve body openings (410, 420, 430) are included, and the cross section perpendicular to the axis Axn1 of the inner wall 211 of the housing (e.g.) Figure 67 In the cross-section of the surface represented by Pd2, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is different in the circumferential direction.

[1044] Therefore, in the portion of the gap Sb10 that is closed over the entire circumferential area of ​​the valve body 31 where the foreign object has a greater impact, the foreign object can be discharged from the gap Sb10.

[1045] <10-7>

[1046] like Figure 68 As shown, the housing 20 has an overflow port 224 that opens on the inner wall 211 of the housing and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[1047] This embodiment also includes an overflow valve 39. The overflow valve 39 is provided at the overflow port 224, and the overflow port 224 is opened and closed according to conditions.

[1048] If foreign objects cannot be removed along the flow of cooling water, they accumulate in the internal space 200. When the overflow valve 39 is opened, foreign objects may get stuck, thus keeping the overflow valve 39 open.

[1049] Therefore, in this embodiment, by forming the inner wall 211 of the housing such that the distance Dna1 from the axis Axn1 is not equal in the circumferential direction, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is also not equal in the circumferential direction, which makes it easy to discharge foreign objects from the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing. As a result, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from getting stuck in the relief valve 39 and keep the relief valve 39 in an open state.

[1050] <10-8>

[1051] like Figure 67 As shown, this embodiment also includes a valve seal 36. The valve seal 36 is formed in an annular shape and is slidably disposed at a position corresponding to the ports (221, 222, 223) on the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31, thereby maintaining a liquid seal between the valve seal 36 and the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31.

[1052] In the section containing the valve seal 36 and perpendicular to the axis Axn1 of the housing inner wall 211 (e.g.) Figure 67 In the cross-section of the surface represented by Pd1, the distance Dgn1 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing is different in the circumferential direction.

[1053] Therefore, foreign objects can be removed from the area around the valve seal 36 in the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing. As a result, damage to the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 caused by foreign objects being trapped between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the valve seal 36 can be suppressed.

[1054] <10-9>

[1055] like Figure 67 As shown, the housing 20 has a housing opening 210 that connects the inner circumferential surface to the end of the housing inner wall 211 in the axial direction Axn1 and connects the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[1056] Valve 30 has a shaft 32 located on the rotation axis Axr1.

[1057] The partition 60 has a partition body 61 provided in the housing opening 210 to separate the internal space 200 from the outside of the housing body 21, and a shaft insertion hole 62 formed in the partition body 61 to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted.

[1058] The drive unit 70 is located on the opposite side of the internal space 200 relative to the partition body 61, and can rotate the valve body 31 via one end of the shaft 32.

[1059] An annular sealing member 600 is provided between the housing opening 210 and the partition wall body 61, which can keep the housing opening 210 and the partition wall body 61 liquid-tight.

[1060] The inner circumferential surface of the shell opening 210 is formed into a cylindrical shape.

[1061] In this way, by forming the inner wall 211 of the housing into a non-circular cross section and forming the inner circumferential surface of the housing opening 210 into a cylindrical shape, foreign objects can be easily removed from the gap Sb10 between the outer circumferential wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing, and the sealing between the housing opening 210 and the partition body 61 can be ensured.

[1062] In this embodiment, the valve body 31 includes ball valves 41, 42, and 43 whose inner and outer peripheral walls are spherical. In contrast, in other embodiments, the valve body 31 may be formed as a cylinder, for example. In this case, by forming the inner wall 211 of the housing as described above, foreign matter can be easily removed from the gap Sb10 between the outer peripheral wall of the valve body 31 and the inner wall 211 of the housing.

[1063] <11-1> Overflow Valve Covering Section

[1064] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, an overflow valve 39, and a shielding part 95.

[1065] The housing 20 has: a housing body 21 forming an internal space 200 on the inside; an inlet port 220 connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21 for cooling water to flow in; and an overflow port 224 connecting the internal space 200 to the outside of the housing body 21.

[1066] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that is rotatable about a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200 and a shaft 32 provided on the rotation axis Axr1.

[1067] An overflow valve 39 is provided at the overflow port 224, which opens or closes depending on the conditions, allowing or disconnecting the communication between the internal space 200 and the outside of the housing body 21 via the overflow port 224.

[1068] Here, the opening condition of the overflow valve 39 is, for example, "when the ambient temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature." The overflow valve 39 opens, for example, when the coolant temperature reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, allowing communication between the internal space 200 of the overflow port 224 and the space inside the outer part of the housing body 21, i.e., the inner side of the pipe section 515. When the coolant temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature, this communication is disconnected. Therefore, in cases where the coolant temperature rises excessively, such as when the vehicle 1 overheats, coolant can flow from the internal space 200 to the external radiator 5 to cool the coolant.

[1069] like Figure 112 As shown, the shielding part 95 can shield the overflow valve 39 so that the overflow valve 39 cannot be seen from the inlet port 220. More specifically, the overflow valve 39 is shielded by the shielding part 95 when viewed axially from the inlet port 220, and is therefore not visible to the naked eye.

[1070] Therefore, it is possible to prevent the cooling water flowing into the interior space 200 from the inlet port 220 from directly impacting the relief valve 39. Thus, even when high-temperature cooling water flows in momentarily or locally, it is possible to prevent the relief valve 39 from mistakenly interpreting overheating and opening erroneously. Therefore, overheating of the vehicle 1 can be appropriately suppressed by the relief valve 39.

[1071] <11-2>

[1072] like Figure 112 As shown, the shielding part 95 is provided on the housing body 21 in such a way that it is located on the overflow port 224 side relative to the shaft 32.

[1073] Therefore, by positioning the shielding part 95 close to the overflow valve 39, the direct impact of cooling water on the overflow valve 39 can be suppressed more effectively.

[1074] <11-4>

[1075] like Figure 110 , Figure 112 As shown, the shielding portion 95 is formed such that when the inlet port 220, the overflow valve 39, and the shielding portion 95 are projected onto the axial direction of the inlet port 220 or the overflow port 224, the projection of the inlet port 220 overlaps with the projection of the overflow valve 39, forming portion B1. Figure 110 The projection of the area above the area represented by the grid in the middle.

[1076] Therefore, it can reliably prevent cooling water from directly impacting the overflow valve 39 and ensure water flow by reducing the flow path area as necessary.

[1077] <11-5>

[1078] like Figure 112 As shown, the valve 30 side surface 951 of the shielding part 95 is formed to resemble the shape of the inner wall of the housing body 21 that forms the internal space 200, namely the inner wall 211 of the housing.

[1079] Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of fluid flow disturbances within the internal space 200 caused by the shielding portion 95. In addition, it is possible to prevent stress concentration in the shielding portion 95 and improve the durability of the housing body 21.

[1080] <11-6>

[1081] like Figure 112 As shown, the shielding part 95 is formed into a plate shape, and the plate thickness is uniform.

[1082] Therefore, stress concentration in the shielding part 95 can be prevented, and the durability of the housing body 21 can be improved.

[1083] In this embodiment, the relief valve 39 opens "when the ambient temperature is above a predetermined temperature". In contrast, in other embodiments, the relief valve 39 may also open "when the pressure is above a predetermined pressure". Alternatively, the relief valve 39 may open both "when the ambient temperature is above a predetermined temperature" and "when the pressure is above a predetermined pressure". In this case, malfunction of the relief valve 39 can also be prevented by suppressing the direct impact of cooling water on the relief valve 39 by the shielding portion 95.

[1084] (15th implementation)

[1085] based on Figure 113 , Figure 114 The valve device of the 15th embodiment will be described. The structure of the valve body 31 in the 15th embodiment is different from that in the 14th embodiment.

[1086] In this embodiment, the positions and sizes of the circumferential valve body openings 410, 420, and 430 on the valve body 31 are different from those in the 14th embodiment.

[1087] In this embodiment, the arrangement direction and shape of the ball valve 41, cylindrical connecting part 44, ball valve 42, cylindrical valve connecting part 45, and ball valve 43 are the same as in the 14th embodiment (see reference). Figures 90-102 (etc.). Furthermore, in this embodiment, the valve body opening 410, like in the 14th embodiment, has a large opening 412 and an extended opening 413 (see...). Figure 93 , Figure 94 wait).

[1088] <12-1> Flow diagram

[1089] This embodiment is a valve device 10 capable of controlling the cooling water of the engine 2 of a vehicle 1, comprising a housing 20, a valve 30, a drive unit 70, and an ECU 8 as a control unit.

[1090] The housing 20 has an internal space 200, an outlet port 221 connected to the internal space 200 and to the radiator 5 of the vehicle 1 as a radiator port, an outlet port 222 connected to the internal space 200 and to the heater 6 of the vehicle 1 as a heater port as an outlet port, and an outlet port 223 connected to the internal space 200 and to the device 7 of the vehicle 1 as a device port as an outlet port. Hereinafter, for simplicity, the outlet ports 221, 222, and 223 will be referred to as radiator port 221, heater port 222, and device port 223, respectively.

[1091] The valve 30 has a valve body 31 that is rotatable about a rotation axis Axr1 within an internal space 200, and can open or close the radiator port 221, heater port 222 or equipment port 223 depending on the rotation position of the valve body 31.

[1092] The drive unit 70 can drive the valve body 31 to rotate.

[1093] The ECU8 controls the operation of the drive unit 70 and controls the rotation drive of the valve body 31, thereby controlling the flow of cooling water between the radiator port 221 and the radiator 5, between the heater port 222 and the heater 6, and between the device port 223 and the device 7.

[1094] like Figure 113 , Figure 114 As shown, ECU8 can control drive unit 70 and valve body 31 such that: as valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation, after all the openings of radiator port 221, heater port 222 and device port 223 become a predetermined opening greater than 0, heater port 222 and device port 223 are closed, and only the opening of radiator port 221 becomes the aforementioned predetermined opening.

[1095] Therefore, by setting the above-mentioned opening degree to a level that can improve the cooling efficiency of the engine 2, and by controlling the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 so that only the radiator port 221 opening degree is the above-mentioned opening degree, the cooling efficiency of the engine 2 under high load can be maximized.

[1096] <12-2>

[1097] like Figure 113 , Figure 114 As shown, the ECU8 can control the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 so that: as the valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation, after the radiator port 221, heater port 222 and device port 223 are all at the specified openings, the heater port 222 and device port 223 are closed in sequence.

[1098] Therefore, the heat exchange from heater 6 can be immediately disconnected, improving the cooling efficiency of engine 2.

[1099] <12-9>

[1100] The opening degree specified above is set to 60% or more.

[1101] Therefore, by controlling the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 so that the opening degree of only the radiator port 221 is the specified opening degree, the cooling efficiency of the engine 2 under high load can be appropriately maximized.

[1102] In addition, in this embodiment, in order to maximize the cooling efficiency of engine 2, the aforementioned opening degree is set to 100%.

[1103] Therefore, by controlling the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 to make the opening degree of only the radiator port 221 reach the specified opening degree, the cooling efficiency of the engine 2 under high load can be maximized.

[1104] <12-10>

[1105] The outer and inner peripheral walls of the valve body 31 are formed into a spherical shape (see reference). Figure 67 wait).

[1106] Valve 30 includes: a valve body flow path 300 formed on the inner side of the inner peripheral wall of valve body 31; a valve body opening 410 serving as a radiator opening, configured to connect the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of valve body 31, the overlap ratio with radiator port 221 varying according to the rotational position of valve body 31; a valve body opening 420 serving as a heater opening, configured to connect the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of valve body 31, the overlap ratio with heater port 222 varying according to the rotational position of valve body 31; and a valve body opening 430 serving as an equipment opening, configured to connect the outer peripheral wall and the inner peripheral wall of valve body 31, the overlap ratio with equipment port 223 varying according to the rotational position of valve body 31. For simplicity, the valve body openings 410, 420, and 430 will be referred to as radiator opening 410, heater opening 420, and equipment opening 430, respectively.

[1107] Thus, this embodiment can be achieved by using a rotary valve with a valve body 31 having spherical outer and inner peripheral walls.

[1108] Here, in more detail, the radiator overlap ratio is relative to the maximum value of the overlap area between the sealing opening 360 of the valve seal 36 of the sealing unit 35 located at the radiator port 221 and the radiator opening 410. The ratio of the overlap area between the sealing opening 360 and the radiator opening 410 corresponds to the opening degree of the radiator port 221.

[1109] More specifically, the heater overlap ratio is the ratio of the overlapping area of ​​the sealing opening 360 of the valve seal 36 of the sealing unit 35 located at the heater port 222 to the maximum value of the overlapping area of ​​the sealing opening 360 and the heater opening 420, which corresponds to the opening degree of the heater port 222.

[1110] More specifically, the equipment overlap ratio is the ratio of the overlapping area of ​​the sealing opening 360 of the valve seal 36 of the sealing unit 35 located at the equipment port 223 to the maximum value of the overlapping area of ​​the sealing opening 360 and the equipment opening 430, which corresponds to the opening degree of the equipment port 223.

[1111] <12-11>

[1112] When the overlap ratio of the radiators is greater than 0, the radiator port 221 opens, and the flow path 300 inside the valve body connects to the radiator 5 through the radiator opening 410 and the radiator port 221. Therefore, at this time, cooling water flows from the flow path 300 inside the valve body towards the radiator 5.

[1113] When the overlap ratio of the heaters is greater than 0, the heater port 222 opens, and the valve body flow path 300 connects to the heater 6 via the heater opening 420 and the heater port 222. At this time, cooling water flows from the valve body flow path 300 to the heater 6.

[1114] When the overlap ratio of the devices is greater than 0, device port 223 opens, and the flow path 300 inside the valve body connects to device 7 through device opening 430 and device port 223. At this time, cooling water flows from the flow path 300 inside the valve body to the device 7.

[1115] Next, based on Figure 113 , Figure 114 The flowchart of the cooling water for the valve device 10 in this embodiment will be described in detail.

[1116] like Figure 113 , Figure 114 As shown, when the rotational position of valve body 31 is 0 (degrees) as the reference position ( Figure 114 When the rotational position is Pr0, that is, when one of the first limiting protrusion 332 or the second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the limiting part 631 and the rotation of the valve body 31 is restricted, the opening degree of the radiator port 221, the heater port 222, and the equipment port 223 is all 0% (fully closed). Hereinafter, when referred to as Pr0 to 13, it means... Figure 114 The rotational positions are Pr0 to 13.

[1117] Controlled by the drive unit 70 of the ECU8, the valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation. As the rotational position of the valve body 31 increases from 0, the opening of the heater port 222 between Pr2 and Pr3 increases from 0% by a predetermined percentage. Consequently, a corresponding amount of cooling water flows to the heater 6 side. The opening of the heater port 222 reaches 100% (fully open: the predetermined opening mentioned above) at Pr3.

[1118] If valve body 31 is further rotated to one side of the rotation direction, the opening of device port 223 between Pr4 and Pr5 increases from 0% by a predetermined ratio. Consequently, a corresponding amount of cooling water flows to device 7. The opening of device port 223 reaches 100% (fully open: the predetermined opening mentioned above) at Pr5.

[1119] Here, the increase ratio of the opening degree of the heater port 222 between Pr2 and Pr3 per unit rotation angle of the valve body 31 is the same as the increase ratio of the opening degree of the equipment port 223 between Pr4 and Pr5 (refer to...). Figure 113 , Figure 114 ).

[1120] If the valve body 31 is further rotated to one side of the rotation direction, the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr6 and Pr7 increases from 0 (%) by a predetermined ratio. As a result, an amount of cooling water corresponding to the opening of the radiator port 221 flows to the radiator 5 side.

[1121] If the valve body 31 is further rotated in the direction of rotation, the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr7 and Pr8 increases further by a predetermined ratio. The opening of the radiator port 221 reaches 100% (fully open: the predetermined opening mentioned above) at Pr8. Therefore, at Pr8, the total opening of the radiator port 221, heater port 222, and equipment port 223 becomes the predetermined opening, i.e., 100%.

[1122] Here, the increase rate of the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr6 and Pr7 per unit rotation angle of the valve body 31 is less than the increase rate of the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr7 and Pr8 (refer to...). Figure 113 , Figure 114 This is because the radiator opening 410 is formed by an extended opening 413 and a large opening 412 (see reference). Figure 93 , Figure 94 (etc.). That is, the increase in the opening of the radiator port 221 is smaller when the extended opening 413 overlaps with the sealing opening 360, and larger when the large opening 412 overlaps with the sealing opening 360.

[1123] Therefore, at the initial stage of valve opening at radiator port 221, the flow rate of cooling water toward radiator 5 can be gradually increased. This helps to suppress rapid temperature changes in the cooling water caused by heat exchange in radiator 5.

[1124] Furthermore, the percentage increase in the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr6 and Pr7 per unit rotation angle of the valve body 31, and the percentage increase in the opening of the radiator port 221 between Pr7 and Pr8, are smaller than the percentage increase in the opening of the heater port 222 between Pr2 and Pr3, and the percentage increase in the opening of the equipment port 223 between Pr4 and Pr5 (refer to...). Figure 113 , Figure 114 ).

[1125] Therefore, the flow rate change of cooling water toward radiator 5 at the initial stage of valve opening is made more gradual compared to the flow rate change of cooling water toward heater 6 and equipment 7. As a result, the rapid temperature change of cooling water caused by heat exchange in radiator 5 can be suppressed.

[1126] If the valve body 31 is further rotated in the direction of rotation, the opening of the heater port 222 decreases from 100% by a predetermined ratio between Pr9 and Pr10. Consequently, the amount of cooling water flowing towards the heater 6 side decreases accordingly. The opening of the heater port 222 becomes 0% (fully closed) at Pr10. Thus, the heater port 222 closes, and the flow of cooling water towards the heater 6 side is cut off.

[1127] If valve body 31 is further rotated in the direction of rotation, the opening of device port 223 decreases from 100% by a predetermined ratio between Pr11 and Pr12. Consequently, the amount of cooling water flowing towards device 7 decreases accordingly. The opening of device port 223 becomes 0% (fully closed) at Pr12. Thus, device port 223 closes, and the flow of cooling water towards device 7 is cut off.

[1128] Here, the reduction ratio of the opening degree of the heater port 222 between Pr9 and Pr10 per unit rotation angle of the valve body 31 is the same as the reduction ratio of the opening degree of the device port 223 between Pr11 and Pr12 (refer to...). Figure 113 , Figure 114 ).

[1129] If the valve body 31 is further rotated to one side of the rotation direction, then at Pr13, the other side of the first limiting protrusion 332 or the second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the limiting part 631, and the rotation drive of the valve body 31 stops. At this time, the opening degree of the radiator port 221 remains unchanged at 100%. That is, at this time only the opening degree of the radiator port 221 is 100% (fully open: the opening degree specified above).

[1130] In this embodiment, as described above, the ECU8 can control the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 such that: as the valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation, after all the openings of the radiator port 221, heater port 222 and device port 223 reach the specified opening (100%) at Pr8, the heater port 222 and device port 223 are closed at Pr10 and Pr12, and at Pr13, only the opening of the radiator port 221 reaches the specified opening (100%).

[1131] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the ECU8 can control the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 such that, as the valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation, after the radiator port 221, heater port 222, and device port 223 are fully opened at the specified opening (100%) at Pr8, the heater port 222 and device port 223 are closed in the order of heater port 222 and device port 223 (Pr10, Pr12).

[1132] (Sixteenth Embodiment)

[1133] exist Figure 115 The valve device in the 16th embodiment is shown in the figure. The shape of the connecting parts 231 to 233 in the 16th embodiment is different from that in the 14th embodiment.

[1134] <1-11>

[1135] The connecting portion 231 has two straight outer walls (234, 235) in the cross section of the surface perpendicular to the connecting hole 241, and the angle θ1 formed by the two outer walls (234, 235) is obtuse.

[1136] The connecting portion 232 has two straight outer walls (236, 237) in the cross section of the surface perpendicular to the connecting hole 242, and the angle θ2 formed by the two outer walls (236, 237) is obtuse.

[1137] The connecting portion 233 has two straight outer walls (238, 239) in the cross section of the surface perpendicular to the connecting hole 243, and the angle θ3 formed by the two outer walls (238, 239) is obtuse.

[1138] Therefore, the strength of the fastening portions 231-233 can be increased, thereby improving the vibration resistance of the valve device 10. Furthermore, during use, cooling water flows into the internal space 200, making the weight of the device containing the cooling water relatively large. Therefore, by increasing the strength of the fastening portions 231-233, the valve device 10 can be reliably fixed within the limited mounting space (narrow space A1).

[1139] like Figure 115 As shown, in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31, the range in which the connecting portion 231 is formed overlaps with the range in which the connecting portions 232 and 233 are formed.

[1140] Therefore, the housing body 21 can be stably fixed to the engine 2.

[1141] The lengths of the connecting portions 231, 232, and 233 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31 are larger than the diameter of the inlet port 220.

[1142] Therefore, the housing body 21 can be stably fixed to the engine 2.

[1143] The length of the connecting portion 231 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31 is greater than the length of the connecting portion 232 or the connecting portion 233 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31.

[1144] Therefore, for one side with only one of the three closely connected parts, it is possible to ensure the balance of the housing body 21 in both the left and right directions (width direction) when the housing body 21 is fixed to the engine 2.

[1145] The center of the connecting portion 231 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31 and the center of the connecting portion 233 in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31 are located on the side closer to the drive portion 70 than the center of the inlet port 220.

[1146] Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the vibration caused by the drive unit 70.

[1147] The end of the outer wall 238 of the connecting part 233 on the drive part 70 side is located on the opposite side of the inlet port 220 side of the outer wall 239 relative to the rotation axis Axr1.

[1148] Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the vibration caused by the drive unit 70.

[1149] The connecting portions 232 and 233 are formed in the mounting surface 201, and the range of the mounting surface recess 207 extends from one end to the other in the direction of the rotation axis Axr1 of the valve body 31.

[1150] Therefore, the housing body 21 can be stably fixed to the engine 2.

[1151] (17th embodiment)

[1152] exist Figure 116 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the 17th embodiment. The structure of the valve 30 in the 17th embodiment differs from that in the 3rd embodiment.

[1153] <3-30>

[1154] The partition 60 has a partition body 61 that separates the interior space 200 from the exterior of the housing 20, a shaft insertion hole 62 formed in the partition body 61 to allow one end of the shaft 32 to be inserted, and a limiting recess 63 recessed from the interior space 200 side of the partition body 61 toward the side opposite to the interior space 200.

[1155] The valve body 31 has a limiting protrusion 344 that extends from the first outermost end face 301 on the side of the partition wall portion 60 of the second partition 34 toward the limiting recess 63 and has its front end located in the limiting recess 63.

[1156] In the third embodiment, an example is shown where the first limiting protrusion 332 abuts against the second limiting protrusion 342 to form a limiting protrusion (see reference). Figure 23 In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, one restrictive protrusion 344 is formed extending from the second segment 34.

[1157] In this embodiment, when the rotation of the valve body 31 is restricted by the limiting portion 631, the force acting on the valve body 31 in the direction of separation (peeling) of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the mating surfaces 331 and 341 can also be suppressed. Therefore, when the limiting protrusion 344 abuts against the limiting portion 631 of the limiting recess 63, the separation of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the mating surfaces 331 and 341 can be suppressed.

[1158] In this embodiment, the limiting protrusion 344 is formed on an imaginary plane Vp8 that includes the rotation axis Axr1 and is perpendicular to the mating surfaces 331 and 341 (see reference). Figure 116 ).

[1159] Therefore, when the rotation of the valve body 31 is restricted by the limiting part 631, the force acting on the valve body 31 in the direction of separation (peeling) of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the joint surfaces 331 and 341 can be reliably suppressed.

[1160] (18th embodiment)

[1161] exist Figure 117 The text indicates a part of the valve device in the 18th embodiment. The structure of the valve 30 in the 18th embodiment differs from that in the 3rd embodiment.

[1162] <3-31>

[1163] The first limiting protrusion 332 extends toward the limiting recess 63 along the surface direction of the mating surface 331. The second limiting protrusion 342 does not abut against the first limiting protrusion 332 and extends toward the limiting recess 63 along the surface direction of the mating surface 341.

[1164] In this embodiment, similar to the third embodiment, when the rotation of the valve body 31 is restricted by the restricting portion 631, the force in the direction of separation (peeling) of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the mating surfaces 331 and 341 does not act. Therefore, when the first restricting protrusion 332 or the second restricting protrusion 342 abuts against the restricting portion 631 of the restricting recess 63, the separation of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the mating surfaces 331 and 341 can be suppressed.

[1165] In this embodiment, when the valve body 31 is divided into two regions by an imaginary plane Vp8 containing the rotation axis Axr1 and perpendicular to the mating surfaces 331 and 341, the first limiting protrusion 332 and the second limiting protrusion 342 are formed on one side of the two regions (see reference). Figure 117 ).

[1166] Therefore, when the rotation of the valve body 31 is restricted by the limiting part 631, the force acting on the valve body 31 in the separation (peeling) direction of the first segment 33 and the second segment 34 at the joint surfaces 331 and 341 can be reliably suppressed.

[1167] Furthermore, the distance between the rotation axis Axr1 and the first limiting protrusion 332 is smaller than the distance between the rotation axis Axr1 and the second limiting protrusion 342 (see reference). Figure 117 ).

[1168] (19th embodiment)

[1169] exist Figure 118 The image shows a portion of the valve device according to the 19th embodiment. The shape of the limiting recess 63 in the 19th embodiment differs from that in the 14th embodiment.

[1170] <8-4>

[1171] like Figure 118 As shown, the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 is formed into a cone shape and approaches the drive part 70 from the inner cylinder wall surface 632 side toward the outer cylinder wall surface 633 side.

[1172] Therefore, foreign objects on the bottom surface 630 of the limiting recess 63 can be actively guided towards the foreign object accumulation portion 68 radially outward of the limiting recess 63, causing the foreign objects to move away from the shaft insertion hole 62. This effectively ensures the sealing performance of the shaft sealing component 603.

[1173] (Embodiment 20)

[1174] exist Figure 119 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the 20th embodiment. The structure of the valve 30, the limiting part 631, etc., in the 20th embodiment differs from those in the 14th embodiment.

[1175] <8-8>

[1176] like Figure 119 As shown, valve 30 has a valve body cylindrical portion 315 extending in a cylindrical shape from valve body 31 toward drive portion 70. The front end of valve body cylindrical portion 315 is located radially outward of inner cylinder wall surface 632.

[1177] Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign objects from entering the shaft insertion hole 62 through the limiting recess 63. As a result, the sealing performance of the shaft sealing component 603 can be ensured.

[1178] <8-9>

[1179] The valve 30 has a labyrinth forming portion 316 formed in the valve body cylinder 315, which is capable of forming a labyrinth-shaped space Sr1 between the valve body cylinder and the inner cylinder wall 632.

[1180] Therefore, it can effectively prevent foreign objects from entering the shaft insertion hole 62 through the limiting recess 63. As a result, the sealing performance of the shaft sealing component 603 can be effectively ensured.

[1181] <8-10>

[1182] The labyrinth-forming part 316 is formed in a ring shape, protruding radially inward from the front end of the valve body cylinder part 315.

[1183] Therefore, it is possible to effectively suppress the intrusion of foreign matter into the shaft insertion hole 62 of the limiting recess 63 with a simple structure.

[1184] <8-11>

[1185] The valve body cylinder portion 315 is formed such that it is located on the inner cylinder wall surface 632 side relative to the limiting portion 631 in the radial direction of the limiting recess 63.

[1186] Therefore, when the valve body 31 rotates, interference between the valve body cylinder 315 and the limiting part 631 can be suppressed.

[1187] (21st embodiment)

[1188] exist Figure 120 , Figure 121 The text indicates a portion of the valve device according to the 21st embodiment. The arrangement of the shielding part 95 in the 21st embodiment differs from that in the 14th embodiment.

[1189] <11-3>

[1190] The shielding part 95 is provided on the housing body 21 in such a way that it is located on the side of the inlet port 220 relative to the shaft 32.

[1191] Therefore, by configuring the shielding part 95 appropriately away from the overflow valve 39, it is possible to suppress the direct impact of cooling water on the overflow valve 39 and ensure the responsiveness of the overflow valve 39.

[1192] <11-4>

[1193] In this embodiment, the shielding portion 95 is formed such that when the inlet port 220, the overflow valve 39 and the shielding portion 95 are projected onto the axial direction of the inlet port 220 or the axial direction of the overflow port 224, it becomes the projection of the area above the area of ​​the portion B2 where the projection of the inlet port 220 overlaps with the projection of the overflow valve 39.

[1194] Therefore, it can reliably prevent cooling water from directly impacting the overflow valve 39 and ensure water flow by reducing the flow path area as necessary.

[1195] <11-6>

[1196] like Figure 120 , Figure 121 As shown, the shielding part 95 is formed into a plate shape, and the plate thickness is uniform.

[1197] Therefore, stress concentration in the shielding part 95 can be prevented, and the durability of the housing body 21 can be improved.

[1198] (22nd Embodiment)

[1199] based on Figure 122 The valve device of the 22nd embodiment will be described. In the 22nd embodiment, the structure of the valve body 31, the drive unit 70, and the control method of the valve body 31 are different from those of the 15th embodiment.

[1200] In this embodiment, the positions and sizes of the circumferential valve body openings 410, 420, and 430 of the valve body 31 are different from those in the 15th embodiment.

[1201] <12-3>

[1202] like Figure 122 As shown, the ECU8 can control the drive unit 70 and the valve body 31 so that: as the valve body 31 is driven to rotate in the direction of rotation, after the radiator port 221, heater port 222 and device port 223 are all at the specified openings, the heater port 222 and device port 223 are closed in the order of device port 223 and heater port 222.

[1203] Therefore, for example, the cooling efficiency of engine 2 can be improved while maintaining the same heating performance in winter.

[1204] Next, based on Figure 122 The flowchart of the cooling water for the valve device 10 in this embodiment will be described in detail.

[1205] like Figure 122 As shown, when the rotational position of valve body 31 is 0, which serves as the reference position ( Figure 122When the valve body 31 is in the rotational position Pr0, that is, when one of the first limiting protrusion 332 or the second limiting protrusion 342 abuts against the limiting part 631 and the rotation is restricted, the opening degree of the radiator port 221, heater port 222, and equipment port 223 is all 0% (fully closed). Her...

Claims

1. A valve device capable of controlling the cooling water of a vehicle's heating element, characterized in that, have: The housing has a housing body that forms an internal space on the inside, a port that connects the internal space to the outside of the housing body, and a housing opening that connects the internal space to the outside of the housing body. The valve has a valve body that can rotate about a rotation axis within the aforementioned internal space, a valve body internal flow path formed on the inner side of the valve body, a valve body opening that connects the valve body internal flow path to the outer side of the valve body, and a shaft provided on the rotation axis, which can change the communication state between the valve body internal flow path through the valve body opening and the aforementioned port according to the rotation position of the valve body. The partition wall is provided at the opening of the housing in a manner that separates the internal space from the outside of the housing body, and is capable of providing shaft support for the shaft. The drive unit cover is disposed on the opposite side of the aforementioned partition wall portion, forming a drive unit space between it and the aforementioned partition wall portion; A drive unit, provided in the aforementioned drive unit space, is capable of rotating the valve body via the aforementioned shaft; and An annular sealing component is provided between the housing opening and the partition wall, which can keep the housing opening and the partition wall liquid-tight. The aforementioned annular sealing member is compressed radially between the aforementioned housing opening and the aforementioned partition wall portion; The difference between the inner diameter of the housing opening and the outer diameter of the partition wall body is set to be less than the difference between the inner and outer diameters of the annular sealing member in its free state, thereby compressing the annular sealing member radially between the housing opening and the partition wall. An axial gap is formed between the annular sealing member and the housing body in the axial direction. In a cross-section below the plane containing the axis of the annular sealing member, the cross-sectional area of ​​the annular sealing member / the cross-sectional area of ​​the axial gap is set to be less than 1.

2. The valve device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a fixing member that can fix the housing body and the drive unit cover when the partition portion is sandwiched between the housing body and the drive unit cover.

3. The valve device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned partition wall has a shaft insertion hole that allows one end of the aforementioned shaft to be inserted through; The above-mentioned valve device also includes: A metal ring, inserted into the aforementioned shaft insertion hole and formed in the aforementioned partition portion; and The bearing section is located inside the aforementioned metal ring and provides shaft support for one end of the aforementioned shaft.

4. The valve device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The aforementioned partition wall portion has a partition wall recess that is recessed on the radially outer side of the aforementioned metal ring from the side facing the opposite side of the aforementioned drive unit cover.

5. The valve device as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The aforementioned drive unit has a motor capable of rotating the aforementioned shaft.

6. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes an elastic member that is installed between the motor and the partition in a compressed state.

7. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The motor is configured such that its shaft is orthogonal to the shaft axis.

8. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, It also has a U-shaped power supply terminal, which is provided on the drive unit cover with the open end facing the partition side, through which current supplied to the motor flows. The motor is configured such that it has a motor-side terminal at its axial end that is connected to the opening of the power supply terminal, and the shaft of the motor is parallel to the surface of the drive cover facing the partition side.

9. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The aforementioned drive unit has a gear section capable of transmitting the driving force of the aforementioned motor to the aforementioned shaft; The valve device further includes a retaining member, which has a snap-fit ​​portion that can be snapped into contact with the drive housing and retains the motor and gear portion between itself and the drive housing.

10. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing has a mounting surface formed on the outer wall of the housing body opposite to the aforementioned heating element when it is mounted on the aforementioned heating element; The motor is configured to have a motor shaft with output driving force and a worm gear provided at the front end of the motor shaft. The motor shaft is perpendicular to the mounting surface, and the worm gear faces the opposite side of the mounting surface.

11. The valve device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The motor described above has a motor shaft that outputs driving force and a worm gear provided at the front end of the motor shaft; The aforementioned retaining member is configured such that the aforementioned snap-fit ​​portion is located radially outside the aforementioned worm gear.

12. The valve device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, It includes a tube component, which has a cylindrical tube portion with an inner space communicating with the aforementioned port and is installed into the aforementioned housing body; The aforementioned retaining member is formed such that the aforementioned snap-fit ​​portion is located on the side of the aforementioned tube member relative to the aforementioned rotating shaft.

Images