Valve device

Abstract

The valve device (1, 2, 3) includes: a valve housing (10, 15, 16, 17, 18) having an internal space (100) and a plurality of housing-side openings (101, 1601, 1701, 1801) that communicate the internal space with the outside; a valve member (20, 70) rotatably housed in the valve housing, having a plurality of valve-member-side openings (230, 222, 232, 233, 720, 721, 722, 723) that can communicate with the plurality of housing-side openings and a communication path (200, 700) that communicates the plurality of valve-member-side openings; a restriction portion (19, 394, 494) that can restrict the rotation of the valve member; an abutting portion (24, 34, 44, 54, 64) provided in a space (200, 210) of the valve member and capable of abutting against the restriction portion; and a shaft (25) that rotatably supports the valve member.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the original application filed on September 20, 2017, with application number 201780058932.3 and invention title "Valve Device".

[0002] Cross-reference of related applications

[0003] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-187965, filed on September 27, 2016, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-166230, filed on August 30, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to a valve device. Background Technology

[0005] Conventionally, valve devices are known that include: a valve component having two or more openings and a communication path connecting the two or more openings; and a valve housing rotatably housing the valve component and having two or more communication holes capable of communicating with the two or more openings of the valve component. This valve device can control the flow of fluid according to the rotation angle of the valve component relative to the valve housing. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a valve device comprising: a bottom-cylindrical valve housing having a plurality of housing-side openings radially outward when viewed from one end along the direction of the rotation axis and from the rotation axis; and a valve component formed as a bottom-cylindrical shape, rotatably housed in the valve housing, having a valve component-side opening on its outer wall in the radial direction capable of communicating with the housing-side openings.

[0006] Existing technical documents

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2015-59615 Summary of the Invention

[0009] In the valve device described in Patent Document 1, the valve component has a contact portion that can abut against a limiting portion provided on the valve housing. If the contact portion abuts against the limiting portion, the rotation of the valve component is restricted. However, in the valve device described in Patent Document 1, the contact portion is formed to protrude from the valve component in the direction along the rotation axis of the valve component, thus increasing the axial profile of the valve device.

[0010] This disclosure is made in view of the above points, and its object is to provide a valve device that can reduce the size of the valve and allow the rotation angle of the valve component to be within a desired angle range.

[0011] This disclosure relates to a valve device comprising a valve body, valve components, a limiting part, an abutment part, and a shaft.

[0012] The valve housing has an internal space and multiple housing-side openings that connect the internal space to the outside.

[0013] The valve component is rotatably housed in the valve housing and has multiple valve component side openings that can communicate with multiple housing side openings and a communication path that connects the multiple valve component side openings.

[0014] The limiting part can restrict the rotation of the valve components.

[0015] The abutting part is located in the space of the valve component and can abut against the limiting part.

[0016] The shaft supports the valve components so that they can rotate.

[0017] In the valve device of this disclosure, an abutment portion that can abut against a limiting portion capable of restricting the rotation of the valve component is provided within the space of the valve component. Therefore, the abutment portion does not protrude from the valve component, and thus the overall shape of the valve component can be reduced compared to a case where the abutment portion protrudes from the valve component. Consequently, the overall shape can be reduced, and the rotation angle of the valve component can be within a desired angle range. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent with reference to the accompanying drawings and through the following detailed description. The accompanying drawings are as follows:

[0019] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Sectional view along line II-II,

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a cooling system using the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the bearing included in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing the valve device of the first embodiment exploded.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the meshing state of the motor gear, first intermediate gear, second intermediate gear, and valve gear of the valve device according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 1VIII view,

[0027] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve components included in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0030] Figure 12 yes Figure 1 XII view,

[0031] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 Sectional view of line XIII-XIII,

[0032] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the valve housing included in the valve device of the first embodiment.

[0033] Figure 15 yes Figure 2 XV-XV line cross-section diagram.

[0034] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a partially enlarged view of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0037] Figure 19 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the second embodiment.

[0038] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0039] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device according to the third embodiment.

[0040] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in the valve device of the fourth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 23 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve components included in the valve device of the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0043] Figure 25 This is a top view of the valve components included in the valve device of the fifth embodiment.

[0044] Figure 26 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in the valve device of the sixth embodiment.

[0045] Figure 27 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a valve device according to other embodiments.

[0046] Figure 28 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a valve device according to other embodiments.

[0047] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve components included in other embodiments of the valve device.

[0048] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve components included in other embodiments of the valve device.

[0049] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of the valve components included in other embodiments of the valve device.

[0050] Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve components included in the valve device of other embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0051] Hereinafter, several embodiments will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the various embodiments, substantially the same parts will be labeled with the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0052] (First Implementation)

[0053] The fluid control valve 1, which is the "valve device" in the first embodiment, is applied to a cooling system that cools the engine.

[0054] First, based on Figure 3 The cooling system 4 using the fluid control valve 1 will be described below. The fluid control valve 1 is located in the cylinder head 501 of the engine 5. Cooling water flowing through the cylinder block 502 and cylinder head 501 of the engine 5 flows into the fluid control valve 1. The cooling water flowing into the fluid control valve 1 is supplied to the radiator 6, oil cooler 7, and air conditioning heat exchanger 8. The cooling water supplied to the radiator 6, oil cooler 7, and air conditioning heat exchanger 8 returns to the water pump 9 and is pressurized before being reused for cooling the engine 5.

[0055] The fluid control valve 1 includes a first housing 10 as a "valve housing", a bearing 14, a second housing 15 as a "valve housing", a radiator piping 16 as a "valve housing", an oil cooler piping 17 as a "valve housing", an air conditioning piping 18 as a "valve housing", a valve component 20, an abutment part 24, a limiting part 19, and a shaft 25.

[0056] The first housing 10 is a resin component formed into a generally bottomed cylindrical shape. The first housing 10 has a valve component receiving space 100, which serves as a generally cylindrical "housing interior space" capable of accommodating the valve component 20.

[0057] The first housing 10 has an insertion hole 101 that serves as a "housing-side opening" communicating with the valve component receiving space 100. The inner diameter of the insertion hole 101 is such that the valve component 20 can be inserted into the valve component receiving space 100. In addition, the insertion hole 101 serves as the inlet for cooling water to flow from the engine 5 into the valve component receiving space 100. A groove 102 is formed on the edge of the first housing 10 where the insertion hole 101 is formed. This groove 102 allows for the installation of an O-ring 110 that maintains a liquid seal between the fluid control valve 1 and the cylinder head 501 when the fluid control valve 1 is assembled to the cylinder head 501.

[0058] The first housing 10 has three insertion holes 11, 12, and 13 in the radial direction of the valve component receiving space 100.

[0059] Insertion hole 11 is formed among the three insertion holes 11, 12, and 13 at the position closest to the bottom 104 of the housing on the side opposite to insertion hole 101 in the valve component receiving space 100. Insertion hole 11 allows the radiator piping 16 to be inserted.

[0060] Insertion holes 12 and 13 are formed between insertion hole 11 and insertion hole 101. Insertion holes 12 and 13 are positioned at approximately a 90-degree angle when viewed from the rotation axis RA25 of shaft 25 (for comparison). Figure 1 and Figure 2 Insertion hole 12 allows for the insertion of oil cooler piping 17. Insertion hole 13 allows for the insertion of air conditioning piping 18.

[0061] The bottom 104 of the housing has a through hole 105 at approximately the center. The other end 252 of the shaft 25 is inserted into the through hole 105. A bearing portion 106 is provided on the inner wall of the through hole 105. The bearing portion 106 supports the other end 252 of the shaft 25 so that it can rotate.

[0062] A sealing member 107 is provided on the inner wall of the through hole 105 between the bearing portion 106 and the valve component receiving space 100. The sealing member 107 is able to maintain the liquid tightness between the through hole 105 on the side where the bearing portion 106 is located and the valve component receiving space 100.

[0063] The bottom 104 of the housing has a drainage path 108 communicating with the through hole 105 between the bearing portion 106 and the sealing member 107 (see reference). Figure 2 The drainage path 108 connects the through hole 105 to the outside of the fluid control valve 1. The drainage path 108 is capable of discharging cooling water that has entered the through hole 105 on the side where the bearing portion 106 is located through the sealing member 107 to the outside.

[0064] The bearing 14 is provided in the insertion hole 101. The bearing 14 has a central part 141, an annular part 142, a plurality of connecting parts 143, and a bearing part 140.

[0065] The central portion 141 is located radially outward from one end 251 of the shaft 25. The central portion 141 is a generally cylindrical portion extending along the rotation axis RA25 of the shaft 25. When the bearing 14 is assembled into the first housing 10, the end of the central portion 141 located on the space 200 side is provided with a bearing portion 140 that supports one end 251 of the shaft 25 so that it can rotate.

[0066] The annular portion 142 is a generally annular portion located radially outward of the central portion 141, and is provided at the location of the insertion hole 101 in the first housing 10. In the fluid control valve 1, the annular portion 142 is located radially outward at the end of the central portion 141 on the side opposite to the space 200 when the bearing 14 is assembled to the first housing 10. That is, the annular portion 142 and the bearing portion 140 are as follows: Figure 1 , 2 Offset along the rotation axis RA25 as shown.

[0067] Multiple connecting portions 143 are portions that connect the central portion 141 to the annular portion 142. The connecting portions 143 are formed in a radially outward direction from the central portion 141 toward the annular portion 142. For example... Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figure 5, the end of the connecting portion 143 connected to one side of the central portion 141 is formed to be approximately the same length as the central portion 141, and is formed such that its length along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 decreases as it moves away from the rotation axis RA25. Figure 4 As shown, multiple connecting portions 143 are configured such that, when the bearing 14 is viewed from the direction of rotation RA25 along the shaft 25, the spacing between adjacent connecting portions 143 is the same angle α. A gap is formed between adjacent connecting portions 143 to allow cooling water to flow through.

[0068] In fluid control valve 1, such as Figure 5 As shown, the end of the annular portion 142 that is inserted into the insertion hole 101 has an inclined surface 144 formed at an angle relative to the rotation axis RA25 of the shaft 25. Figure 5As shown, the inclined surface 144 is inclined in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis RA25, moving away from the rotation axis RA25 as it moves outward from the space 200 side.

[0069] When the bearing 14 is assembled into the first housing 10, the end of the first housing 10 that abuts against the inclined surface 144 has an abutment surface 103. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the contact surface 103 is formed in a direction substantially parallel to the rotation axis RA25, moving away from the rotation axis RA25 as it moves outward from the space 200 side.

[0070] The second housing 15 is located on the side of the first housing 10 opposite to the side where the insertion hole 101 is formed. The second housing 15 has a connector 151. Furthermore, the second housing 15 forms a receiving chamber 150 between itself and the first housing 10, capable of accommodating the rotation angle sensor 152, motor gear 153, first intermediate gear 154, second intermediate gear 155, valve gear 156, etc. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view is shown near the containment chamber 150 with the second housing 15 removed.

[0071] A rotation angle sensor 152 is located near the other end 252 of the shaft 25. The rotation angle sensor 152 is capable of outputting a signal corresponding to the rotation angle of the shaft 25.

[0072] Motor gear 153 is provided in the motor 157 of the fluid control valve 1 (see reference). Figure 7 The motor gear 153 rotates due to the driving force output by the motor 157.

[0073] The first intermediate gear 154 connects the motor gear 153 and the second intermediate gear 155. The first intermediate gear 154 has a first large gear 1541, a first small gear 1542, and a first gear shaft 1543. The first large gear 1541 meshes with the motor gear 153. The first small gear 1542... Figure 6 As shown, the first gear 1541 is located on the side of the first housing 10 and meshes with the second intermediate gear 155. The first gear shaft 1543 connects the first gear 1541 and the first pinion 1542 so that they can rotate integrally. At the location where the first gear shaft 1543 is embedded in the second housing 15, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, multiple grooves 1544 are formed along the radial direction.

[0074] The second intermediate gear 155 connects the first intermediate gear 154 and the valve gear 156. The second intermediate gear 155 has a second large gear 1551, a second small gear 1552, and a second gear shaft 1553. The second large gear 1551 meshes with the first small gear 1542. The second small gear 1552... Figure 6 As shown, the second large gear 1551 is located on the side opposite to the first housing 10 and meshes with the valve gear 156. The second gear shaft 1553 connects the second large gear 1551 and the second small gear 1552 so that they can rotate integrally. At the location where the second gear shaft 1553 is embedded in the second housing 15, as shown... Figure 6 As shown, multiple grooves 1554 are formed along the radial direction.

[0075] Valve gear 156 connects the second intermediate gear 155 to shaft 25. Specifically, valve gear 156 is fixed to the other end 252 of shaft 25 and can rotate integrally with shaft 25.

[0076] If the motor 157 outputs driving force, the driving force is transmitted to the shaft 25 via the motor gear 153, the first intermediate gear 154, the second intermediate gear 155, and the valve gear 156. Through this transmitted driving force, the shaft 25 and the valve component 20, which rotates integrally with the shaft 25, rotate.

[0077] In the fluid control valve 1, the first pinion 1542 of the first intermediate gear 154 and the second large gear 1551 of the second intermediate gear 155 are meshed when viewed from the side of the first housing 10. Figure 6 The position indicated by the single-dot dashed line C15), and the position where the valve gear 156 meshes with the second pinion 1552 of the second intermediate gear 155 ( Figure 6 The position indicated by the single-dot dashed line B15), and the position where the motor gear 153 meshes with the first large gear 1541 of the first intermediate gear 154 ( Figure 6 The motor gear 153, the first intermediate gear 154, the second intermediate gear 155, and the valve gear 156 are configured in a manner shown by the single-dotted line A15.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first large gear 1541 of the first intermediate gear 154 and a portion of the second gear shaft 1553 of the second intermediate gear 155 are formed in an overlapping manner. That is, as... Figure 6 As shown, if the rotation axis of the second gear shaft 1553 is extended in a direction that is approximately parallel to the rotation axis RA25 of the shaft 25 and from the second large gear 1551 toward the second small gear 1552, it will overlap with the first large gear 1541.

[0079] The driving force output by the motor 157 is transmitted to the shaft 25 via the motor gear 153, the first intermediate gear 154, the second intermediate gear 155, and the valve gear 156.

[0080] Connector 151 has terminals 158 that are electrically connected to rotation angle sensor 152 and motor 157. Terminal 158 is electrically connected to control unit (not shown) via an external connector (not shown). Connector 151 can output the signal output by rotation angle sensor 152 to control unit and receive power supplied to motor from the outside.

[0081] The shaft 25 is formed of metal in a generally rod shape and has one end 251, the other end 252, and an insert 253.

[0082] One end 251 is inserted into the bearing 14 and is rotatably supported on the bearing portion 140.

[0083] The other end 252 is inserted into the bottom 104 of the housing and is rotatably supported by the bearing portion 106.

[0084] The insert 253 is disposed between one end 251 and the other end 252, and as follows: Figure 1 , 2 It is embedded in the valve component 20 as shown in Figure 11. The cross-sectional shape of the embedded part 253, which is approximately perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25, is as follows. Figure 13 It is formed into a polygonal shape as shown. Grooves 254 and 255 with smaller outer diameters than the outer diameter of the insert portion 253 are formed on one end 251 side and the other end 252 side of the insert portion 253.

[0085] The radiator piping 16 includes radiator pipes 161, sheets 162, sleeves 163, seals 164, springs 165, and plates 166.

[0086] The radiator tube 161 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The radiator tube 161 is fixed to the opening 111 of the first housing 10. The radiator tube 161 forms a radiator passage 160.

[0087] Sheet 162 is disposed independently of radiator tube 161, and is, for example, a generally annular component formed of PTFE. Sheet 162 has an opening 1601 that serves as an "other housing side opening". Sheet 162 is configured to abut against the outer wall of valve component 20.

[0088] Sleeve 163 is a generally cylindrical component disposed between radiator tube 161 and sheet 162. The end of sleeve 163 on the radiator tube 161 side is inserted into radiator passage 160. The end of sleeve 163 opposite to the side inserted into radiator passage 160 is formed with a larger inner diameter to support sheet 162.

[0089] A seal 164 is located radially outside the sleeve 163 that is inserted into the radiator passage 160. The seal 164 maintains a liquid seal between the radiator passage 160 and the insertion hole 11.

[0090] A spring 165 is disposed between the end face of the radiator tube 161 on the valve component 20 side and the end face of the sleeve 163 on the radiator tube 161 side of the support sheet 162 portion. The spring 165 applies force to the sheet 162 in the direction of separation between the radiator tube 161 and the sheet 162. As a result, the sheet 162 is pressed against the outer wall of the valve component 20, and the liquid seal between the valve component 20 and the sleeve 163 and the insertion hole 11 is maintained.

[0091] Plate 166 is located in the radial direction of spring 165. The cross-section of plate 166 is L-shaped, and plate 166 abuts against the end face of valve component 20 of radiator pipe 161, which is approximately orthogonal to each other, and the outer wall surface of sleeve 163 on the radially outer side.

[0092] The oil cooler piping 17 includes an oil cooler pipe 171, a sheet 172, a sleeve 173, a seal 174, a spring 175, and a plate 176.

[0093] The oil cooler tube 171 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The oil cooler tube 171 is fixed to the opening 121 of the first housing 10. The oil cooler tube 171 forms an oil cooler passage 170.

[0094] Sheet 172 is disposed independently of oil cooler tube 171, and is, for example, a generally annular component formed of PTFE. Sheet 172 has an opening 1701 that serves as an "other housing-side opening". Sheet 172 is configured to abut against the outer wall of valve component 20.

[0095] Sleeve 173 is a generally cylindrical component located between oil cooler tube 171 and sheet 172. The end of sleeve 173 on the oil cooler tube 171 side is inserted into oil cooler passage 170. The end of sleeve 173 opposite to the side inserted into oil cooler passage 170 is formed with a larger inner diameter to support sheet 172.

[0096] A seal 174 is located radially outside the sleeve 173 that is inserted into the oil cooler passage 170. The seal 174 maintains a liquid seal between the oil cooler passage 170 and the insertion hole 12.

[0097] A spring 175 is located between the end face of the oil cooler pipe 171 on the valve component 20 side and the end face of the sleeve 173 on the oil cooler pipe 171 side of the support sheet 172 portion. The spring 175 applies force to the sheet 172 in the direction of separation between the oil cooler pipe 171 and the sheet 172. As a result, the sheet 172 is pressed against the outer wall of the valve component 20, and the liquid tightness between the valve component 20 and the insertion hole 12 in the sleeve 173 is maintained.

[0098] Plate 176 is located in the radial direction of spring 175. The cross-section of plate 176 is L-shaped, and plate 176 abuts against the end face of valve component 20 of oil cooler pipe 171, which is approximately orthogonal to each other, and the outer wall surface of sleeve 173 on the radially outer side.

[0099] The air conditioning piping 18 includes an air conditioning pipe 181, a sheet 182, a sleeve 183, a seal 184, a spring 185, and a plate 186.

[0100] The air conditioning pipe 181 is formed in a generally cylindrical shape. The air conditioning pipe 181 is fixed to the opening 131 of the first housing 10. The air conditioning pipe 181 forms an air conditioning passage 180.

[0101] Sheet 182 is disposed independently of air conditioning pipe 181, and is, for example, a generally annular component formed of PTFE. Sheet 182 has an opening 1801 that serves as an "other housing side opening". Sheet 182 is configured to abut against the outer wall of valve component 20.

[0102] Sleeve 183 is a generally cylindrical component disposed between air conditioning pipe 181 and sheet 182. The end 1831 of sleeve 183 on the air conditioning pipe 181 side is inserted into air conditioning passage 180. The end 1832 of sleeve 183 on the opposite side of end 1831 is formed with a larger inner diameter than end 1831, supporting sheet 182.

[0103] A seal 184 is located radially outside the sleeve 183 that is inserted into the air conditioning passage 180. The seal 184 maintains a liquid seal between the air conditioning passage 180 and the insertion hole 13.

[0104] A spring 185 is located between the end face 1811 of the air conditioning pipe 181 on the valve component 20 side and the end face 1833 of the sleeve 183 on the air conditioning pipe 181 side. The spring 185 applies force to the sheet 182 in the direction of separation between the air conditioning pipe 181 and the sheet 182. As a result, the sheet 182 is pressed against the outer wall of the valve component 20, and the liquid seal between the valve component 20 and the insertion hole 13 in the sleeve 183 is maintained.

[0105] Plate 186 is positioned radially inward of spring 185. Plate 186 is as follows: Figure 8As shown, the cross-section is L-shaped. Plate 186 abuts against the end face 1811 of the air conditioning pipe 181, which is approximately orthogonal to the outer wall surface 1834 of the sleeve 183, which is radially outer.

[0106] Furthermore, the configuration of the air conditioning piping 18 is described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, but the radiator piping 16 and the oil cooler piping 17 also have the same configuration.

[0107] Valve component 20 is formed of resin into a generally bottomed cylindrical shape and is housed in valve component housing space 100. The rotation axis RA25 of shaft 25 is located on the central axis of valve component 20. Valve component 20 has a valve component bottom 21, a first cylindrical portion 22 serving as the "outer wall of the radially outer side of the valve component", and a second cylindrical portion 23 serving as the "outer wall of the radially outer side of the valve component". Valve component 20 internally has a space 200 formed by valve component bottom 21, first cylindrical portion 22 and second cylindrical portion 23, serving as a "communication path".

[0108] The valve component bottom 21 is located in the valve component receiving space 100 opposite to the housing bottom 104, and has a through hole 211 at approximately the center for inserting a shaft 25. If the shaft 25 is inserted into the through hole 211, the valve component 20 and the shaft 25 become immobile relative to each other, but can rotate as a single unit. The valve component bottom 21... Figure 10 As shown, the surface on the side of space 200 has a plurality of ribs 212. The ribs 212 are formed to extend radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis RA25.

[0109] The side of the valve component bottom 21 opposite to the housing bottom 104 is formed such that it moves away from the housing bottom 104 as it moves radially outward from the edge where the first cylindrical portion 22 is located toward the through hole 211. Thus, the valve component bottom 21... Figure 11 As shown, it has a recess 210 that is recessed in a concave shape along the direction of the rotation axis RA25, serving as a "space possessed by the valve component".

[0110] A first cylindrical portion 22 is formed extending from the bottom 21 of the valve component in a direction opposite to the bottom 104 of the housing. A second cylindrical portion 23 is provided at the end of the first cylindrical portion 22 opposite to the side connected to the bottom 21 of the valve component. The first cylindrical portion 22 is as follows: Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 11 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the outer wall surface 221, including the rotating shaft RA25, is formed such that the central portion bulges outward more radially than the end connected to the bottom 21 of the valve component and the end connected to the second cylinder 23.

[0111] The first cylindrical portion 22 has a valve component side opening 222 that communicates with the space 200 and the outer side of the first cylindrical portion 22, serving as an "other valve component side opening". In the first embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 22 has two valve component side openings 222. The valve component side openings 222 are formed to communicate with the radiator passage 160 corresponding to the rotation angle of the valve component 20. That is, the sheet 162 of the radiator piping 16 is pressed against the outer wall surface 221 forming the valve component side opening 222.

[0112] The second cylindrical section 23 is formed extending from the end of the first cylindrical section 22 opposite to the side connected to the bottom of the valve component 21 in a direction opposite to the bottom of the housing 104. The second cylindrical section 23 has an inlet 230, which serves as a "valve component side opening," on the side opposite to the first cylindrical section 22 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25. Cooling water flowing from the engine 5 flows into the space 200 through the inlet 230. The second cylindrical section 23... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 11 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the outer wall surface 231, including the rotation shaft RA25, is formed such that the central portion bulges outward more radially than the end connected to the first cylindrical portion 22 and the end forming the inlet 230.

[0113] The second cylindrical portion 23 has valve component side openings 232 and 233 that communicate with the space 200 and the outside of the second cylindrical portion 23 as "other valve component side openings".

[0114] The valve component side opening 232 is formed to be connected to the oil cooler passage 170 corresponding to the rotation angle of the valve component 20. That is, the sheet 172 of the oil cooler piping 17 is pressed against the outer wall surface 231 forming the valve component side opening 232.

[0115] The valve component side opening 233 is formed to be able to rotate with the valve component 20 and communicate with the air conditioning passage 180. That is, the sheet 182 of the air conditioning piping 18 is pressed against the outer wall surface 231 forming the valve component side opening 233.

[0116] Here, in Figure 12 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the portion of the valve component 20 in the fluid control valve 1 that abuts against the radiator piping 16 on a virtual plane including the rotation axis RA25.

[0117] like Figure 12As shown, in the fluid control valve 1, the intersection point Cp20 of the virtual shape line SL22 along the outer wall surface 221 of the first cylindrical portion 22 and the virtual shape SL23 along the outer wall surface 231 of the second cylindrical portion 23 is located on the surface of the sheet 162 that abuts against the valve component 20. In the fluid control valve 1, a recess 201 is provided on the second cylindrical portion 23 side between the first cylindrical portion 22 and the second cylindrical portion 23 of the valve component 20.

[0118] The abutment portion 24 is provided in the recess 210 of the bottom 21 of the valve component. In the first embodiment, the abutment portion 24 is integrally formed with the valve component 20. The abutment portion 24 is as follows... Figure 11 As shown, the position of the end face 240 opposite to the bottom of the housing 104 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 is the same as the position of the end face 213 of the valve component bottom 21 opposite to the bottom of the housing 104 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25. The abutment portion 24 is as follows... Figure 9 As shown, it has two sidewalls 241 and 242 and a rib 243.

[0119] The sidewalls 241 and 242 are formed to extend radially in two different outward directions when viewed from the axis of rotation RA25.

[0120] Rib 243 is provided between side wall 241 and side wall 242. Rib 243 supports side walls 241 and 242.

[0121] The abutting part 24 is formed to abut against the limiting part 19 provided at the bottom 104 of the housing.

[0122] Restriction Section 19 Figure 14 As shown, this is the portion of the end face 109 on the bottom 104 of the housing, which is formed in a generally arc shape and faces the bottom 21 of the valve component. In the first embodiment, the limiting portion 19 is integrally formed with the first housing 10. The limiting portion 19 protrudes from the end face 109 in the direction along the rotation axis RA25, and the protruding front end is as shown... Figure 2 As shown, it is located in recess 210. The limiting part 19 is as follows. Figure 14 As shown, the circumferential sides 191 and 192 extend radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis RA25.

[0123] Here, based on Figure 15 The positional relationship between the contact part 24 and the restriction part 19 will be explained. Figure 15 Show Figure 2 The XV-XV line cross-sectional view, and a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 of the part where the abutment part 24 and the limiting part 19 engage. Additionally, in Figure 15 For convenience, the direction of rotation of valve component 20 will be described as "clockwise" or "counterclockwise".

[0124] Figure 15The diagram shows the side 244 of the sidewall 241 of the abutting portion 24 abutting against the side 191 of the restricting portion 19. In this state, the valve component 20 is restricted from clockwise rotation.

[0125] On the other hand, if valve component 20 from Figure 15 When the valve component 20 is rotated counterclockwise from the indicated position, the side surface 245 of the side wall 242 of the abutting part 24 abuts against the side surface 192 of the limiting part 19. As a result, the counterclockwise rotation of the valve component 20 is limited.

[0126] That is, the valve component 20 engages with the limiting part 19 through the circumferential abutment part 24 of the valve component 20. Figure 15 Rotation within the angular range indicated by the double-dotted line α1 is permitted.

[0127] (a) In the fluid control valve 1 of the first embodiment, an abutment portion 24 capable of abutting against the limiting portion 19 that restricts the rotation of the valve component 20 is formed in a concave recess 210 of the valve component 20. Therefore, the valve component 20 can have an abutment portion 24 that does not protrude from the valve component 20, thus reducing the overall size of the valve component 20 compared to the case where the abutment portion 24 protrudes from the valve component 20. Consequently, it is possible to reduce the overall size of the valve component 20 while maintaining the rotation angle of the valve component 20 within a desired range.

[0128] (b) In the bottom 21 of the valve component, a recess 210 is formed as it moves away from the bottom 104 of the housing from the radially outer edge where the first cylindrical portion 22 is located toward the through hole 211. Thus, the recess 210 is formed such that its depth decreases radially outward from the center where the shaft 25 of the bottom 21 of the valve component is located, thereby reducing the flow resistance of cooling water flowing through the space 200. Therefore, the flow of cooling water in the space 200 can be smoothly guided to the valve component side openings 222, 232, 233.

[0129] (c) Furthermore, if the depth of the recess 210 is formed such that it becomes shallower as it moves radially outward from the center of the shaft 25 at the bottom 21 of the valve component, the length of the abutment portion 24 near the rotation shaft RA25 along the direction of the rotation shaft RA25 can be made relatively long. This increases the contact area between the abutment portion 24 and the limiting portion 19, thus preventing damage to the abutment portion 24 caused by stress from engagement with the limiting portion 19.

[0130] (d) In addition, the valve component 20 has a plurality of ribs 212 on the side of the space 200. As a result, the cooling water flowing through the space 200 can be smoothly guided from the center of the shaft 25 at the bottom 21 of the valve component toward the radial direction.

[0131] (e) Furthermore, by providing ribs 212 on the surface on the side of space 200, the strength of the bottom 21 of the valve component can be improved. As a result, damage to the contact portion 24 caused by stress due to engagement with the limiting portion 19 can be reliably prevented.

[0132] (f) Furthermore, the limiting part 19 is integrally formed with the first housing 10. Thus, by engaging with the abutment part 24, it is possible to prevent the limiting part 19 from shifting relative to the first housing 10.

[0133] (g) The side surfaces 244 and 245 of the contact portion 24 and the side surfaces 191 and 192 of the limiting portion 19 are formed radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis RA25. This increases the contact area when side surface 244 contacts side surface 191 and when side surface 245 contacts side surface 192. Therefore, damage to the contact portion 24 and the limiting portion 19 caused by stress due to the engagement of the contact portion 24 and the limiting portion 19 can be reliably prevented.

[0134] (h) The abutment portion 24 has ribs 243 that support the two sidewalls 241, 242. As a result, compared with the case where the abutment portion is formed into a block shape, the amount of resin required to form the abutment portion 24 can be reduced.

[0135] (i) A groove 102 is formed on the edge of the first housing 10 forming the insertion hole 101, which allows the O-ring 110 to be installed when the fluid control valve 1 is assembled to the cylinder head 501. In addition, the first housing 10 is formed of resin, thereby suppressing the deformation of the bearing 14 caused by the deformation of the groove 102 when the bearing 14 is inserted into the insertion hole 101.

[0136] (j) The plurality of connecting parts 143 are configured such that, when the bearing 14 is viewed from the direction of the rotation axis RA25 along the shaft 25, the spacing between adjacent connecting parts 143 is the same angle α. As a result, the force generated when the bearing 14 is pressed into the first housing 10 can be evenly distributed, preventing the bearing from shifting or deforming.

[0137] (k) In the bearing 14, the annular portion 142 and the bearing portion 140 are formed offset along the rotation axis RA25. As a result, the force generated when the bearing 14 is pressed into the first housing 10 can be prevented from acting directly on the bearing portion 140.

[0138] (l) The connecting portion 143 is formed such that the end connected to one side of the central portion 141 is formed to be approximately the same length as the central portion 141, and the length along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 is shortened as it moves away from the rotation axis RA25. As a result, the deformation caused by the force generated when the bearing 14 is pressed into the first housing 10 can be converted into a relatively large deflection of the connecting portion 143, thereby reducing the force acting on the bearing portion 140.

[0139] (m) A gap is formed between adjacent connecting portions 143 through which cooling water can flow. Since the rigidity of the part with the gap is relatively low, the force when the bearing 14 is pressed into the first housing 10 can be converted into the deflection of the part with low rigidity, thereby reducing the force acting on the bearing portion 140.

[0140] (n) When the bearing 14 is pressed into the first housing 10, the inclined surface 144 of the bearing 14 abuts against the contact surface 103 of the first housing 10, thereby enabling the bearing 14 to be assembled in a predetermined position in the first housing 10. This prevents abnormal rotation caused by misalignment between the shaft 25 and the bearing 14.

[0141] (o) The drainage path 108 of the first housing 10 discharges cooling water that has entered the through hole 105 on the side where the bearing portion 106 is located through the sealing member 107 to the outside, preventing cooling water from the valve component housing space 100 from entering the housing chamber 150. This prevents gears such as the rotation angle sensor 152 and valve gear 156 housed in the housing chamber 150, as well as the motor 157 exposed in the housing chamber 150, from being damaged by the applied cooling water. Furthermore, by draining water through the drainage path 108, leakage of cooling water through the sealing member 107 can be detected earlier, thus enabling early detection of malfunctions in the sealing member 107.

[0142] (p) In the fluid control valve 1, the motor gear 153, the first intermediate gear 154, the second intermediate gear 155, and the valve gear 156 are arranged in sequence, when viewed from the first housing 10 side, as follows: the first pinion 1542 meshes with the second large gear 1551; the valve gear 156 meshes with the second pinion 1552; and the motor gear 153 meshes with the first large gear 1541. This allows the second intermediate gear 155 to be positioned close to the first intermediate gear 154 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 of the shaft 25. Consequently, the overall shape of the fluid control valve 1 in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 can be reduced.

[0143] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first large gear 1541 of the first intermediate gear 154 and a portion of the second gear shaft 1553 of the second intermediate gear 155 are formed overlapping. As a result, the shape of the fluid control valve 1 in the direction substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 can be further reduced, and the second intermediate gear 155 can be prevented from disengaging from the first housing 10 by means of the first intermediate gear 154.

[0144] (q) The first gear shaft 1543 of the first intermediate gear 154 and the second gear shaft 1553 of the second intermediate gear 155 have multiple grooves 1544 and 1554 formed at the portion where they are embedded in the first housing 10. As a result, the length of the embedded portion can be shortened, and thus the shape of the fluid control valve 1 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 can be reduced.

[0145] (r) Conventionally, if a metal shaft is embedded in a valve component made of resin, the stress of the rotational torque of the valve component and the stress of the force in a direction approximately perpendicular to the rotational axis of the shaft are concentrated at the same location where the shaft is embedded in the valve component, thus applying excessive stress. Therefore, there is a concern about damage to the valve component.

[0146] In the fluid control valve 1, the cross-sectional shape of the insert portion 253 of the shaft 25, which is approximately perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25, is polygonal. Furthermore, the shaft 25 has grooves 254 and 255 on both sides of the insert portion 253, with outer diameters smaller than the outer diameter of the insert portion 253. Thus, the stress from the rotational torque of the valve component 20 acts on the insert portion 253, while the stress from the forces exerted by the springs 165, 175, and 185 of each of the pipes 16, 17, and 18 in a direction approximately perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 of the shaft 25 acts on the grooves 254 and 255 and is dispersed. Therefore, damage to the valve component 20 can be prevented.

[0147] (s) The radiator piping 16, the oil cooler piping 17, and the air conditioning piping 18 have plates 166, 176, and 186 disposed in the radial direction inward of the springs 165, 175, and 185, and abutting the end face of the valve component 20 side of the pipes 161, 171, and 181 and the outer wall surface of the sleeves 163, 173, and 183 radially outward. Thus, the plates 166, 176, and 186 maintain the inner diameter of the springs 165, 175, and 185 and restrict the radial movement of the springs 165, 175, and 185. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the springs 165, 175, and 185 from sliding with the sleeves 163, 173, and 183, and from sliding with the first housing 10.

[0148] (t) Valve component 20 has a recess 201 on the side of the second cylinder 23 between the first cylinder 22 and the second cylinder 23. This prevents the sheet 162 of the radiator pipe 16 that can abut against the outer wall surface 221 of the first cylinder 22 from interfering with the sheet 172 of the oil cooler pipe 17 and the sheet 182 of the air conditioning pipe 18 that can abut against the outer wall surface 231 of the second cylinder 23, and further reduces the shape of the fluid control valve 1 in the direction that is substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25.

[0149] (Second Implementation)

[0150] based on Figures 16-19 The valve device according to the second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, the positions of the abutment portion and the limiting portion are different from those in the first embodiment.

[0151] exist Figures 16-19 The diagram shows a fluid control valve 2 as a "valve device" in the second embodiment. The fluid control valve 2 includes a first housing 10, a bearing 39, a second housing 15, a radiator piping 16, an oil cooler piping 17, an air conditioning piping 18, a valve component 20, a connecting component 30, and a shaft 25.

[0152] The bearing 39 is provided in the insertion hole 101. The bearing 39 has a central part 141, an annular part 142, a plurality of connecting parts 143, and a limiting part 394.

[0153] Restriction section 394, etc. Figure 16 , 18 As shown, it is formed to protrude from one of the plurality of connecting portions 143 in the direction along the rotation axis RA25 and in the direction of the valve component 20. Figure 19 As shown, the limiting portion 394 is located in the valve component receiving space 100, and the end on the valve component 20 side is located in the space 200. The limiting portion 394 is formed such that its height increases as it protrudes from the annular portion 142 toward the central portion 141 toward the valve component 20. Furthermore, Figure 18 The dashed line L21 shown in the figure represents the boundary between the connecting part 143 and the limiting part 394.

[0154] A connecting member 30 is provided between the edge 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23, which forms the inlet 230 and is located at one end of the valve component along the direction of rotation, and the shaft 25. The connecting member 30 has a central portion 301 located radially outward of one end 251 of the shaft 25, a plurality of connecting portions 302 connecting the edge 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23 to the central portion 301, and an abutment portion 34. The connecting member 30 is integrally formed with the valve component 20.

[0155] The connecting portion 302 is formed radially outward from the central portion 301 toward the edge portion 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23. A gap is formed between adjacent connecting portions 302 to allow cooling water to flow through. The connecting portion 302 is as follows... Figure 19 As shown, it is formed at an angle relative to the rotation axis RA25. Specifically, the connecting portion 302 is formed to approach the bottom 21 of the valve component as it moves from the edge 234 of the second cylinder portion 23 toward the central portion 301.

[0156] The abutment portion 34 is provided on the side of one of the plurality of connecting portions 302 opposite to the bottom 21 of the valve component. The abutment portion 34 is as follows: Figure 19As shown, the length along the rotation axis RA25 is shortened as it moves from the central portion 301 toward the edge portion 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23. The end face 341 on the bearing 39 side of the abutment portion 34 is positioned in the same direction along the rotation axis RA25 as the end face 235 on the bearing 39 side of the edge portion 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23 is positioned in the same direction along the rotation axis RA25. Furthermore, Figure 17 , 19 The dashed line L22 shown in the figure represents the boundary between the connecting part 302 and the abutting part 34.

[0157] In the fluid control valve 2 of the second embodiment, a limiting portion 394 is provided on a bearing 39 at one end 251 of the support shaft 25. Furthermore, an abutment portion 34, capable of abutting the limiting portion 394, is provided on a connecting member 30 connected to one end 251 of the shaft 25. The position of the end face 341 of the abutment portion 34 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 is the same as the position of the end face 235 of the second cylinder portion 23 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25. That is, the abutment portion 34 is provided in the space 200 of the valve member 20, which is the "space possessed by the valve member". Thus, the second embodiment achieves the effects of the first embodiment (a), (d), (i) to (t).

[0158] (Third Implementation)

[0159] based on Figure 20 , 21 The valve device according to the third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, the positions of the abutment portion and the limiting portion are different from those in the first embodiment.

[0160] Figure 20 , 21 The figure shows a fluid control valve 3 as a "valve device" in the third embodiment. The fluid control valve 3 includes a first housing 10, a bearing 49, a second housing 15, a radiator pipe 16, an oil cooler pipe 17, an air conditioning pipe 18, a valve component 20, an abutment portion 44, and a shaft 25.

[0161] The bearing 49 is provided in the insertion hole 101. The bearing 49 has a central part 141, an annular part 142, a plurality of connecting parts 143, and a limiting part 494.

[0162] Restriction section 494, etc. Figure 20 As shown, it is formed such that one of the multiple connecting portions 143 protrudes along the rotation axis RA25 toward the bottom 21 of the valve component. Figure 21 As shown, the limiting part 494 is located in the valve component receiving space 100, and the end of the valve component 20 is located in the space 200. The limiting part 494 is provided near the connection between the annular part 142 and the connecting part 143, that is, near the outer peripheral end of the bearing 49. In addition, Figure 21The dashed line L31 shown in the figure represents the boundary between the connecting part 143 and the limiting part 494.

[0163] Contact part 44 Figure 20 , 21 As shown, it protrudes radially inward from the edge 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23. The abutment portion 44 is integrally formed with the valve component 20. The end face 441 on the bearing 49 side of the abutment portion 44 is positioned at the same location as the end face 235 of the second cylindrical portion 23 in the same direction along the rotation axis RA25. Furthermore, Figure 21 The dashed line L32 shown in the figure represents the boundary between the edge portion 234 and the contact portion 44.

[0164] In the fluid control valve 3 of the third embodiment, a limiting portion 494 is provided on the bearing 49 at one end 251 of the support shaft 25. Furthermore, an abutting portion 44, capable of abutting the limiting portion 494, is formed to protrude radially inward from the edge 234 of the second cylindrical portion 23. The end face 441 of the abutting portion 44 is positioned in the same direction along the rotation axis RA25 as the end face 235 of the second cylindrical portion 23 is positioned in the same direction along the rotation axis RA25. That is, the abutting portion 44 is provided in the space 200 of the valve member 20, which is the "space possessed by the valve member". Thus, the third embodiment achieves the effects of the first embodiment (a), (d), (i) to (t).

[0165] (Fourth Implementation)

[0166] based on Figure 22 , 23 The valve device according to the fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, the shape of the abutment portion is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0167] exist Figure 22 , 23 The diagram shows the valve component 20 of the fluid control valve as a "valve device" in the fourth embodiment. The fluid control valve of the fourth embodiment includes a first housing 10, a bearing 14, a second housing 15, a radiator piping 16, an oil cooler piping 17, an air conditioning piping 18, a valve component 20, an abutment portion 54, and a shaft 25.

[0168] The abutment portion 54 is provided in the recess 210 of the bottom 21 of the valve component. The abutment portion 54 is formed to abut against the limiting portion 19. The sides 541 and 542 of the abutment portion 54 that can abut against the limiting portion 19 are formed radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis RA25.

[0169] Contact part 54 Figure 23As shown, the end face 540 of the valve component bottom 21, opposite to the space 200, is located on the side of the housing bottom 104 (see reference) in the direction along the rotation axis RA25, compared to the position of the end face 213 of the valve component bottom 21 in the direction along the rotation axis RA25. Figure 23 (dashed line L41).

[0170] In the fluid control valve of the fourth embodiment, the abutment portion 54 that can abut against the limiting portion 19 is provided in the recess 210 at the bottom 21 of the valve component, but a portion of it is formed protruding from the recess 210. Thus, the fourth embodiment achieves the effects of the first embodiment (a) to (g), (i) to (t).

[0171] Furthermore, the length of the abutment portion 54 along the direction of the rotation axis RA25 is longer than that of the abutment portion 24 in the first embodiment, thus increasing the contact area of ​​the limiting portion 19. As a result, damage to the abutment portion 54 caused by stress due to engagement with the limiting portion 19 can be reliably prevented.

[0172] (Fifth Implementation)

[0173] based on Figure 24 , 25 The valve device according to the fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, the position of the abutment portion is different from that in the first embodiment.

[0174] exist Figure 24 , 25 The diagram shows the valve component 20 of the fluid control valve as a "valve device" in the fifth embodiment. The fluid control valve of the fifth embodiment includes a first housing 10, a bearing 14, a second housing 15, a radiator piping 16, an oil cooler piping 17, an air conditioning piping 18, a valve component 20, an abutment portion 64, and a shaft 25.

[0175] The abutment portion 64 is provided in the recess 210 of the bottom 21 of the valve component. The abutment portion 64 has two side walls 641, 642 and a rib 643.

[0176] Side walls 641, 642, etc. Figure 24 , 25 As shown, it is formed to extend radially in two different radial directions when viewed from the rotation axis RA25.

[0177] Rib 643 is located between side wall 641 and side wall 642. Rib 643 supports side walls 641 and 642.

[0178] The abutting portion 64 is formed such that the side surface 644 of the side wall 641 and the side surface 645 of the side wall 642 can abut against the limiting portion 19. The side surfaces 644 and 645 are formed radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis RA25.

[0179] In the fluid control valve of the fifth embodiment, the relationship between the position where the abutment portion 64 is formed and the position of the valve component side opening 222 formed in the direction along the rotation axis RA25 at the position closest to the abutment portion 64 is characterized. Based on Figure 25 Explain the details.

[0180] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram projecting the valve component 20 and the abutment portion 64 onto a virtual plane perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25. (See diagram below.) Figure 25 As shown, the projection view of the abutment portion 64 on the virtual plane perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25 and the projection view of the valve component side opening 222, which is the "approach valve component side opening", are formed in different positions. Specifically, the projection view of the abutment portion 64 is represented by an angle range β5 (the narrow side range between the solid line L51 and the solid line L52 of the rotation axis RA25) other than the angle range α5 shown in the projection view of the valve component side opening 222.

[0181] In the fifth embodiment, on a virtual plane perpendicular to the rotation axis RA25, the projection of the abutment portion 64 is represented by an angle range β5, excluding the angle range α5 shown in the projection of the valve component side opening 222 closest to the bottom 21 of the valve component. Therefore, even with relatively large stress acting on the abutment portion 64 due to contact with the limiting portion 19, deformation of the abutment portion 64 can be suppressed. Thus, in the fifth embodiment, the effects of the first embodiment (a) to (t) are achieved, and deformation and damage to the valve component 20 can be reliably prevented.

[0182] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0183] based on Figure 26 The valve device according to the sixth embodiment will be described. In the sixth embodiment, the shape of the valve component differs from that of the first embodiment.

[0184] Figure 26 The diagram shows a valve component 70 included in a fluid control valve as a "valve device" according to a sixth embodiment. The fluid control valve of the sixth embodiment includes a first housing 10, a bearing 14, a second housing 15, radiator piping 16, oil cooler piping 17, air conditioning piping 18, a valve component 70, an abutment portion 24, and a shaft 25. The valve component 70 is formed as a generally bottomed cylindrical shape and is housed in a valve component housing space 100. The valve component 70 has a valve component bottom 21 and a cylindrical portion 72 serving as the "outer wall of the radially outer side of the valve component." The valve component 70 internally has a space 700 formed by the valve component bottom 21 and the cylindrical portion 72, serving as a "communication path."

[0185] The cylindrical portion 72 is formed to extend in a direction opposite to the bottom 104 of the housing towards the bottom 21 of the valve component. The cylindrical portion 72 has valve component side openings 721, 722, and 723 that communicate with the space 700 and the outside of the cylindrical portion 72 as "other valve component side openings".

[0186] A valve component side opening 721 is formed near the bottom 21 of the valve component. The valve component side opening 721 is formed to connect to the air conditioning passage 180 according to the rotation angle of the valve component 70.

[0187] The valve component side opening 722 is formed at a position farther away from the bottom 21 of the valve component compared to the valve component side opening 721. The valve component side opening 722 is formed to connect to the oil cooler passage 170 according to the rotation angle of the valve component 70.

[0188] The valve component side opening 723 is formed to overlap with each of the circumferential directions of the valve component side opening 721 and the valve component side opening 722. The valve component side opening 723 is formed to connect to the radiator passage 160 in response to the rotation angle of the valve component 70.

[0189] Additionally, the cylindrical portion 72 has an inlet 720 on the opposite side of the valve component bottom 21 in the direction of the extension of the shaft 25, serving as a "valve component side opening".

[0190] In the sixth embodiment, the valve member 70 is configured such that two valve member side openings 721 and 722 are arranged overlapping in the direction along the rotation axis RA25. Furthermore, the valve member side opening 723 overlaps with each of the circumferential directions of the valve member side openings 721 and 722. Even with this configuration, the abutment portion 24 of the recess 210 at the bottom 21 of the valve member can engage with the limiting portion 19 to allow the valve member 70 to rotate within a desired angle range. Therefore, the sixth embodiment achieves the effects of the first embodiment (a) to (t).

[0191] (Other implementation methods)

[0192] In the above embodiments, the fluid control valve, as a "valve device," is applied to a cooling system that cools the engine. However, the application of the fluid control valve is not limited to this. It can be used as long as it is applied to situations where the flow of fluid is controlled by the rotation angle of the valve component relative to the valve housing.

[0193] In the above embodiment, the valve component is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the valve component is not limited to this. It can also be formed as a ball valve, a so-called ball valve.

[0194] In the above embodiment, the bottom of the valve component has ribs on the side of the space where the valve component has space, which are formed to extend radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis. However, the shape of the ribs is not limited to this.

[0195] In the above embodiments, the "valve housing" is assumed to have four "housing-side openings" and the "valve component" is assumed to have five "valve component-side openings". However, the number of "housing-side openings" and the number of "valve component-side openings" are not limited thereto.

[0196] In the above embodiments, the radiator piping, oil cooler piping, and air conditioning piping each have an L-shaped plate to prevent slippage between the spring and the sleeve and the first housing. However, components that achieve the same effect are not limited to this. Figure 27 , 28 The diagram shows a variation of a component that achieves the same effect.

[0197] exist Figure 27 In the modified example shown, two plates are provided. The cross-section of plate 187 of the two plates is formed in an L-shape and is configured to abut against the end face 1833 of sleeve 183 and the outer wall surface 1834 of sleeve 183.

[0198] In addition, Figure 28 In the modified example shown, the shape of the sleeve differs from that of the first embodiment. Specifically, the portion 1835 near the end 1832 of the sleeve 183 extends radially outward.

[0199] exist Figure 27 , 28 In the modified example shown, the same as the above-described embodiment, the radial movement of the spring 185 can be restricted while maintaining the inner diameter of the spring 185.

[0200] In the above embodiment, the shaft has an insert portion and grooves provided on both sides of the insert portion. However, the positional relationship between the insert portion and the grooves is not limited thereto. Figure 29 , 30 Examples of variations related to the shape of the shaft are shown in the figure.

[0201] exist Figure 29 In the modified example shown, the shaft 25 has a polygonal-shaped insert portion 253 with a cross-sectional shape that is approximately perpendicular to the rotation shaft RA25 on both the side of the other end 252 of one end 251 and the side of the other end 252 of one end 251. In this case, a groove 254 is provided between the two insert portions 253.

[0202] exist Figure 30In the modified example shown, the shaft 25 has a polygonal-shaped insert 253 with a cross-sectional shape that is approximately perpendicular to the rotation shaft RA25 on one end 251 and the other end 252. In this case, a groove 254 is provided between the insert 253 and the other end 252. Additionally, as... Figure 30 In a modified example of the shaft 25 shown, the insert 253 may be provided on the side of one end 251 of the other end 252, and the groove 254 may be provided between the insert 253 and one end 251.

[0203] exist Figure 29 , 30 In the modified example shown, the same as the above-described embodiment, damage to the valve component 20 can be prevented.

[0204] In the first embodiment, the limiting part is integrally formed with the first housing. However, it can also be formed independently of the first housing.

[0205] In the first, fourth, and fifth embodiments, the recess is formed such that its depth decreases from the center of the axis at the bottom of the valve component toward the radial direction. However, the shape of the recess is not limited to this. It can also be a constant depth. In this case, the deeper the depth, the larger the area of ​​the side surface, thus preventing damage to the abutment portion.

[0206] In the first to fifth embodiments, the valve component side opening of the first cylindrical portion is connected to the radiator passage. One valve component side opening of the second cylindrical portion is connected to the oil cooler passage, and the other valve component side opening is connected to the air conditioning passage. However, the connection between the valve component side opening and these passages is not limited to this. It is also possible for one valve component side opening to connect to two passages, or for one valve component side opening to connect to two different passages depending on the rotation angle of the valve component.

[0207] In the above embodiment, the bottom surface of the valve component on the spatial side has a plurality of ribs formed to extend radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis. However, the shape of the ribs is not limited thereto.

[0208] Figure 31 The diagram shows a perspective view of a valve component with ribs having a shape different from that of the first embodiment. Additionally, Figure 32 The text shows the contents of the document. Figure 31 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft RA25 of the valve component.

[0209] like Figure 31As shown, the valve component 20 has a plurality of ribs 812 on the surface of the valve component bottom 21 on the side of the space 200, extending from the rotation axis RA25 toward the valve component side opening 222. These ribs 812 are formed approximately parallel to each other. Therefore, similar to the ribs 212 in the first embodiment, cooling water flowing through the space 200 can be smoothly guided from the center of the valve component bottom 21 toward the radial direction, and the strength of the valve component bottom 21 can be improved.

[0210] Alternatively, the contact portion of the fourth embodiment can be located at the position of the contact portion of the fifth embodiment.

[0211] The present disclosure is not limited to this implementation method and can be implemented in various ways without departing from its spirit.

[0212] This disclosure is described based on embodiments. However, this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and constructions. This disclosure also includes various modifications and equivalent variations. In addition, various combinations and methods, and further combinations and methods that include only one element, more than one element, or less than one element, also fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A valve device, characterized in that, have: A valve housing having an internal space and a plurality of housing side openings communicating the internal space with the outside; A valve component is rotatably housed in the valve housing and has a plurality of valve component side openings that can communicate with a plurality of housing side openings and a communication path that connects the plurality of valve component side openings. The limiting part is capable of limiting the rotation of the valve component; The abutting part is provided in the space of the valve component and is able to abut against the limiting part; as well as A shaft supports the valve component so that it can rotate. The limiting part is formed in an arc shape in the circumferential direction. The limiting portion is formed to protrude axially from the valve housing toward the bottom of the valve component, and the height of the protrusion from the valve housing toward the bottom of the valve component increases as it moves from the radially outer side to the radially inner side. The abutting portion is formed such that its length in the axial direction increases from the radially outer side to the radially inner side, thereby increasing the contact area between the abutting portion and the limiting portion when they abut against each other.

2. The valve device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The valve component is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. The shaft is arranged such that the axis of rotation is located on the central axis of the valve component. One of the valve component side openings, which communicates with one of the housing side openings, is formed at one end of the valve component along the direction of the rotation axis. Other valve component side openings among the plurality of housing side openings that can communicate with other housing side openings are formed on the outer wall of the radially outer side of the valve component. The space provided by the valve component for the abutment portion is a concave recess formed at the other end of the valve component along the direction of the rotation axis, i.e., at the bottom of the valve component.

3. The valve device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The depth of the recess decreases from the center of the axis at the bottom of the valve component toward the radial direction.

4. The valve device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, It has multiple side openings for the other valve components. When the proximity valve component side opening, which is closest to the abutment among the plurality of other valve component side openings, and the abutment are projected onto a virtual plane perpendicular to the axis, the projection of the abutment and the projection of the proximity valve component side opening on the virtual plane are formed in different positions.

5. The valve device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The valve component has a rib on the side of its bottom opposite to the side where the abutment is located. The rib is formed to extend radially outward from the center of the axis at the bottom of the valve component.

6. The valve device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The valve component has a valve component side opening on the side of its bottom opposite to the side where the abutment portion is located.

7. The valve device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The limiting part is integrally formed with the valve housing.

8. The valve device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The valve component is formed as a bottomed cylindrical shape. The shaft is arranged such that the axis of rotation is located on the central axis of the valve component. One of the valve component side openings, which communicates with one of the housing side openings, is formed at one end of the valve component along the direction of the rotation axis. Other valve component side openings among the plurality of housing side openings that can communicate with other housing side openings are formed on the outer wall of the radially outer side of the valve component. The space occupied by the valve component, where the abutment is located, is the communication path.

9. The valve device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The abutment portion is provided in a connecting member that connects one end of the valve component to the shaft.

10. The valve device as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The abutting portion is located at one end of the valve component and protrudes inward in a radial direction.

11. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The surfaces of the abutting portion that can abut against the restricting portion and the surfaces of the restricting portion that can abut against the abutting portion are formed to extend radially outward when viewed from the rotation axis.

12. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The space provided by the valve component where the abutment portion is located is formed as a concave recess at the bottom of the valve component. The valve component includes a cylindrical portion that surrounds the shaft circumferentially at the center of the recess. The abutting portion is radially connected to the recessed inner peripheral wall and the cylindrical portion. The abutting portion is formed such that its length along the direction of the rotation axis decreases as it moves away from the rotation axis.

13. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The space provided by the valve component where the abutment portion is located is formed as a concave recess at the bottom of the valve component. The valve component has a central portion that surrounds the shaft in the circumferential direction at the center of the recess. The abutting portion is radially connected to the outer peripheral edge of the recess and the central portion.

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