Valve device

Abstract

The valve device has a housing that forms a fluid flow path (111) through which fluid flows, a fixed valve (40), and a drive valve (30). The fixed valve has an axis (S) and is disposed in the fluid flow path in an axis direction in which the axis extends. The fixed valve forms a first flow path (41, 42) through which fluid flows and a through chamber (43) that penetrates in the axis direction. The drive valve is disposed on one side of the fixed valve in the axis direction in the fluid flow path and forms a second flow path (31) through which fluid flows. The drive valve is configured to communicate the second flow path with the first flow path by sliding with respect to the fixed valve while rotating about the axis. The housing has a bottom portion (110) that covers the through chamber from the other side of the axis direction. Furthermore, an upstream flow path (112) in the fluid flow path that is disposed on an upstream side of the drive valve and the fixed valve with respect to the flow direction of the fluid communicates with the through chamber via a communication path.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of relevant applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-169239, filed on October 6, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to valve devices. Background Technology

[0004] Previously, valve devices with a first valve plate and a second valve plate arranged in the fluid flow path of the housing have been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0005] The first valve plate forms a first through hole and a second through hole. The second valve plate forms a third through hole. The second valve plate is positioned on one side of the axis relative to the first valve plate.

[0006] The second valve plate rotates about its axis, causing the third through-hole to connect to the opening of at least one of the first and second through-holes. For example, when the third through-hole connects to the first through-hole, fluid is discharged from the first outlet port through both the third and first through-holes. When the third through-hole connects to the second through-hole, fluid is discharged from the second outlet port through both the third and second through-holes.

[0007] Therefore, by rotating the second valve plate, the outlet port of the discharged fluid can be switched from one of the first outlet port and the second outlet port to the other outlet port.

[0008] Existing technical documents

[0009] Patent documents

[0010] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2017 / 211311 Summary of the Invention

[0011] The inventors conducted the following research on reducing the friction between the first valve plate and the second valve plate in the valve device described above.

[0012] According to the research of the inventors, in order to reduce the friction between the first valve plate and the second valve plate, it is considered to provide a fourth through hole that extends along the axial direction in addition to the first through hole and the second through hole.

[0013] Here, when the first valve plate is supported from the other side of the axial direction by the bottom of the housing, the following undesirable situation occurs. The fourth through hole constitutes a sealed area surrounded and sealed by the hole forming part of the first valve plate forming the fourth through hole, the second valve plate, and the bottom of the housing.

[0014] When air is sealed in a closed area, at high temperatures, the air expands, causing the second valve plate to shift towards one side of the axis. This creates a gap between the second and first valve plates. Conversely, at low temperatures, the air contracts, pulling the second valve plate closer to the other side of the axis. This increases the friction between the first valve plate (i.e., the stationary valve) and the second valve plate (i.e., the actuating valve).

[0015] In view of the above, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a valve device that eliminates the closed area while reducing friction between the stationary valve and the actuating valve.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of this disclosure, the valve device includes:

[0017] The shell forms a fluid flow path for the fluid to flow through;

[0018] A fixed valve, having an axis, is disposed within a fluid flow path with the direction of its extension being the axial direction, forming a first flow path for fluid flow and a through chamber extending along the axial direction; and

[0019] A drive valve is positioned on one side of the fixed valve along the axial direction within the fluid flow path, forming a second flow path for fluid passage. The drive valve is configured to connect the second flow path with the first flow path by sliding relative to the fixed valve while rotating about the axis.

[0020] The housing has a bottom formed in such a way that it covers the through-chamber from the other side in the axial direction.

[0021] The upstream flow path in the fluid flow path, which is positioned upstream of the driving valve and the fixed valve in the direction of fluid flow, is connected to the through chamber via a connecting path.

[0022] Therefore, by setting up a through chamber, the sliding area between the fixed valve and the drive valve can be reduced. Furthermore, the upstream flow path and the through chamber are connected by a connecting path.

[0023] Therefore, it is possible to provide a valve device that eliminates the sealing area while reducing the friction between the stationary valve and the driven valve.

[0024] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, the valve device includes:

[0025] The shell forms a fluid flow path for the fluid to flow through;

[0026] A fixed valve, having an axis, is disposed within a fluid flow path with the direction of its extension being the axial direction, forming a first flow path for fluid flow and a through chamber extending along the axial direction; and

[0027] A drive valve is positioned on one side of the fixed valve along the axial direction within the fluid flow path, forming a second flow path for fluid passage. The drive valve is configured to connect the second flow path with the first flow path by sliding relative to the fixed valve while rotating about the axis.

[0028] The housing has a bottom formed in such a way that it covers the through-chamber from the other side in the axial direction.

[0029] The downstream flow path in the fluid flow path, which is positioned downstream of the driving valve and the fixed valve in the direction of fluid flow, is connected to the through chamber via a connecting path.

[0030] Therefore, by setting up a through chamber, the sliding area between the fixed valve and the drive valve can be reduced. Furthermore, the downstream flow path is connected to the through chamber via a connecting path.

[0031] Therefore, it is possible to provide a valve device that eliminates the sealing area while reducing the friction between the stationary valve and the driven valve.

[0032] Furthermore, the reference numerals within parentheses of each means (in other words, each constituent element) described in the claims represent an example of the correspondence between the means (in other words, constituent elements) described in the embodiments described later. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a front view of the valve device in the first embodiment, viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis.

[0034] Figure 2 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 1 A top view of the valve device in the first embodiment.

[0035] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Section III-III.

[0036] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Section IV-IV.

[0037] Figure 5 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 3 The diagram shows the internal drive valve and fixed valve of the valve device in the first embodiment, and the diagram omits the drive shaft and spring.

[0038] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Section VI-VI in the diagram.

[0039] Figure 7 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 3The diagram shows the internal drive valve and fixed valve of the valve device in the first embodiment, and the diagram omits the drive shaft and spring.

[0040] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Sectional view of VIII-VIII.

[0041] Figure 9 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 3 The front view of the drive valve unit.

[0042] Figure 10 Viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis. Figure 9 Side view of the drive valve unit.

[0043] Figure 11 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 3 The front view of the fixed valve unit.

[0044] Figure 12 Viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis. Figure 11 Side view of the fixed valve unit.

[0045] Figure 13 It is viewed from one side along the axis. Figure 3 The front view of the washer unit.

[0046] Figure 14 Viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis. Figure 13 Side view of the washer unit.

[0047] Figure 15 It means Figure 3 A three-dimensional diagram showing the arrangement of the drive valve and the spring, and also a diagram used to illustrate the elastic force that the spring imparts to the drive valve.

[0048] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the comparative example, viewed from one side along the axial direction, with the drive shaft and spring omitted.

[0049] Figure 17 In the proportion Figure 16 Sectional view of XVII-XVII.

[0050] Figure 18 This is an observation of the comparative model from one side along the axial direction. Figure 17 The front view of the drive valve unit.

[0051] Figure 19 The comparative model is viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis. Figure 17 Side view of the drive valve unit.

[0052] Figure 20 It is used for supplementary explanation. Figure 3 The diagram shows the elastic force exerted by the spring on the drive valve, and also shows the state in which the axis of the spring is tilted relative to the axis of the drive shaft.

[0053] Figure 21 This is a diagram used to illustrate the water pressure applied to the drive valve within the housing of the valve device in the second embodiment.

[0054] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the rubber spring that imparts elastic force to the drive valve in the housing of the valve device in the third embodiment in the axial direction.

[0055] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating the helical spring within the housing of the valve device in the fourth embodiment that applies force to one side of the valve in the circumferential direction.

[0056] Figure 24 This is a diagram used to illustrate the operation of the helical spring of the valve device in the fourth embodiment, and it is also a diagram showing the two gears that constitute the gear mechanism.

[0057] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the valve device housing in the fifth embodiment, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image.

[0058] Figure 26 This is a front view of the drive valve unit in the sixth embodiment, viewed from one side along the axial direction.

[0059] Figure 27 Viewed from the radially outer side centered on the axis. Figure 26 Side view of the drive valve unit.

[0060] Figure 28 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the sixth embodiment, and the drive shaft and spring are omitted from the diagram.

[0061] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 Cross-sectional view of XXIX-XXIX.

[0062] Figure 30 This is a front view of the drive valve unit in the seventh embodiment, viewed from one side along the axial direction.

[0063] Figure 31 yes Figure 30 Sectional view of XXXI-XXXI.

[0064] Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the seventh embodiment, used to illustrate the purpose of the illustration, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image.

[0065] Figure 33 This is a front view of the drive valve unit in the eighth embodiment, viewed from one side along the axial direction.

[0066] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the eighth embodiment, and the drive shaft and spring are omitted from the diagram.

[0067] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 Cross-sectional view of XXXV-XXXV.

[0068] Figure 36 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the ninth embodiment, used to illustrate the function of the ninth embodiment, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image.

[0069] Figure 37 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the tenth embodiment, used to illustrate the purpose of the illustration, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image.

[0070] Figure 38 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the eleventh embodiment, used to illustrate the purpose of the illustration, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image.

[0071] Figure 39 This is a cross-sectional view of the drive valve and the fixed valve inside the housing of the valve device in the twelfth embodiment, used to illustrate the purpose of the illustration, and is equivalent to the first embodiment. Figure 6 The image. Detailed Implementation

[0072] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described based on the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in order to simplify the description of the various embodiments, the same or equivalent parts will be labeled with the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0073] (First Implementation)

[0074] For the valve device of this first embodiment, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 The valve device in this embodiment is provided in the cooling water circuit through which cooling water, as a fluid, flows, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, it includes a housing 10, an actuator 20, a drive valve 30, a fixed valve 40, a washer 50, and a spring 60.

[0075] like Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 As shown, the housing 10 includes a housing body 11, an inlet pipe 12, and outlet pipes 13 and 14.

[0076] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the housing body 11 has an axis S and is formed into a cylindrical shape centered on the axis S. The housing body 11 forms a cooling water flow path 111 that constitutes a fluid flow path for cooling water to circulate.

[0077] The cooling water flow path 111 is formed by the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11. Specifically, the cooling water flow path 111 includes an upstream flow path 112 and downstream flow paths 113 and 114. The upstream flow path 112 is formed on one side of the bottom 110 in the axial direction Sa. The upstream flow path 112 is disposed upstream of the cooling water flow direction relative to the drive valve 30 and the fixed valve 40 in the cooling water flow path 111.

[0078] The upstream flow path 112 is a flow path that allows cooling water flowing in from the inlet pipe 12a to flow to the other side in the axial direction Sa. The axial direction Sa is the direction in which the axis S of the shell body 11 extends. The inlet pipe 12a is connected to the upstream flow path 112.

[0079] Downstream side flow path 114 Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, it is formed at the bottom 110. The downstream flow path 114 connects to the pipe flow path 14a of the outlet pipe 14. The downstream flow path 113 is as follows... Figure 7 as well as Figure 8 It is formed at the bottom 110 as shown. The downstream flow path 113 is connected to the pipe flow path 13a of the outlet pipe 13.

[0080] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the bottom 110 is positioned on the opposite side of the upstream flow path 112, drive valve 30, fixed valve 40, and gasket 50 in the housing body 11 in the axial direction Sa.

[0081] The bottom 110 supports the fixed valve 40 from the other side of the axial direction Sa via a washer 50. The bottom 110 is formed to cover the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40.

[0082] One side of the axial direction Ra in the inlet pipe 12 is as follows Figure 3 or Figure 4 As shown, it is connected to one side of the housing body 11 along the axial direction Sa. The inlet pipe 12 is formed as a cylinder centered on the axis R.

[0083] The inlet pipe 12 forms a flow path 12a that allows cooling water to flow from one side of the axial direction Ra to the other. The axial direction Ra is the direction in which the axis R extends. The flow path 12a is connected to the upstream flow path 112.

[0084] like Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, an inlet port 12b is formed on the other side of the axial direction Ra in the inlet pipe 12. The inlet port 12b is the inlet for cooling water to flow into the pipe path 12a. The axial direction Ra is the direction orthogonal to the axial direction Sa.

[0085] One side of the outlet pipe 13 in the axial direction Ea is connected to the other side of the housing body 11 in the axial direction Sa. The outlet pipe 13 is formed as a cylinder centered on the axis E.

[0086] The outlet pipe 13 forms a flow path 13a that allows cooling water to flow from one side to the other in the axial direction Ea. The axial direction Ea is the direction in which axis E extends. The flow path 13a connects to the downstream flow path 113.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, an outlet port 13b is formed on the other side of the axial direction Ea in the outlet pipe 13. The outlet port 13b is the outlet for the cooling water that has passed through the pipe flow path 13a. The axial direction Ea is the direction parallel to the axial direction Ra.

[0088] One side of the axial direction Fa in the outlet pipe 14, such as Figure 4 As shown, it is connected to the other side of the axial direction Sa in the housing body 11. The outlet pipe 14 is formed into a cylindrical shape centered on the axis F.

[0089] The outlet pipe 14 forms a flow path 14a that allows cooling water to flow from one side to the other in the axial direction Fa. The axial direction Fa is the direction in which the axis F extends. The flow path 14a is connected to the downstream flow path 114.

[0090] An outlet port 14b is formed on the other side of the outlet pipe 14 in the axial direction Fa. The outlet port 14b is the outlet for the cooling water that has passed through the pipe flow path 14a. The axial direction Fa is as follows... Figure 2 As shown, this is the direction that intersects with the axial direction Ra.

[0091] As will be described later, in this embodiment, the housing body 11 is provided with an outer peripheral support portion 11b that supports a portion of the annular portion 45 of the fixed valve 40 from the other side of the axial direction Sa via a washer 50. The outer peripheral support portion 11b is formed to protrude radially inward from the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11, centered on the axis S.

[0092] Actuator 20 Figure 3 As shown, it includes an actuator device 21 and a housing 23. The actuator device 21 includes an electric motor 21a and a gear mechanism 21b.

[0093] The electric motor 21a is controlled by the electronic control device 70 and outputs rotational force to the gear mechanism 21b. For example, a DC motor, a stepper motor, or an AC motor are used as the electric motor 21a in this embodiment.

[0094] The gear mechanism 21b includes multiple gears, including a drive shaft 22, which transmit the rotational force output from the electric motor 21a to the drive valve 30 through the meshing of the gears. The drive shaft 22 is disposed in the upstream flow path 112 of the housing body 11. The drive shaft 22 is arranged such that its axis is aligned with axis S. The drive shaft 22 is configured to rotate about axis S.

[0095] In this embodiment, the other side of the drive shaft 22 in the axial direction is connected to the drive valve 30. Specifically, the other side of the drive valve 30 in the axial direction is fixed to the drive valve 30 by press-fitting.

[0096] The drive valve 30 is formed in the shape of a plate whose thickness direction is aligned with the axial direction Sa. Specifically, the drive valve 30 is a disc valve formed as a circular plate centered on the axis S. The drive valve 30 is configured to cover the openings 41, 42, and 43 of the fixed valve 40 from one side of the axial direction Sa.

[0097] A sliding surface is formed on the other side of the axial direction Sa in the drive valve 30, which slides relative to the fixed valve 40. Therefore, the drive valve 30 slides relative to the fixed valve 40 while rotating about the axis S.

[0098] Drive valve 30 Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, a flow path opening 31 and a connecting opening 32 are formed.

[0099] The flow path opening 31 is formed to extend along the axial direction Sa (i.e., the thickness direction). In the drive valve 30, the flow path opening 31 is a fan-shaped opening with its apex 31a disposed radially inward on the axis S and its circumferential portion 31b disposed radially outward on the axis S. As described later, the flow path opening 31 constitutes a second flow path for the flow of cooling water.

[0100] The connecting opening 32 is circular in the drive valve 30. The connecting opening 32 is disposed radially relative to the axis S on the side opposite to the flow path opening 31. The connecting opening 32 is offset relative to the connecting opening 32 in a circumferential direction centered on the axis S.

[0101] The connecting opening 32 is formed to extend along the axial direction Sa (i.e., the thickness direction). The connecting opening 32 serves to connect the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 with the upstream flow path 112.

[0102] An outer peripheral surface 33 is continuously formed in the radially outer direction centered on axis S in the drive valve 30. The outer peripheral surface 33 is an outer peripheral portion formed radially outward centered on axis S.

[0103] The outer peripheral surface 33 is formed to continuously cover the flow path opening 31 and the communication opening 32 from the radially outward direction centered on the axis S. In the area of ​​the drive valve 30 other than the flow path opening 31 and the communication opening 32, a cover portion 34 is formed from one side of the axial direction Sa to cover the fixed valve 40. The drive valve 30 of this embodiment is made of a sintered body (i.e., ceramic) made of a metal material such as iron.

[0104] like Figure 6 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the fixed valve 40 is disposed on the opposite side of the drive valve 30 in the axial direction Sa. The fixed valve 40 is disposed on one side of the housing body 11 in the axial direction Sa relative to the bottom 110 of the housing body 11.

[0105] The fixed valve 40 is supported from the other side of the axial direction Sa by the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the outer peripheral support 11b. The fixed valve 40 is as follows... Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 As shown, it is formed into a plate whose thickness direction is consistent with the axial direction Sa.

[0106] Specifically, the fixed valve 40 is a disc valve formed as a circular plate centered on the axis S. On one side of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa, a sliding surface is formed that slides relative to the drive valve 30.

[0107] The fixed valve 40 forms openings 41, 42, and 43. Openings 41, 42, and 43 are formed to extend through along the axial direction Sa (i.e., the thickness direction). Openings 41, 42, and 43 are arranged in a circumferential direction centered on the axis S.

[0108] Specifically, opening 41 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 43 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S. Opening 42 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 41 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S. Opening 43 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 42 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S.

[0109] The opening 41 in the fixed valve 40 is a fan-shaped opening with the vertex 41a disposed radially inside the axis S and the circumferential portion 41b disposed radially outside the axis S.

[0110] The opening 42 in the fixed valve 40 is a fan-shaped opening with the apex 42a disposed radially inside the axis S and the circumferential portion 42b disposed radially outside the axis S.

[0111] The opening 43 in the fixed valve 40 is a fan-shaped opening with its apex 43a disposed radially inward on the axis S and its circumferential portion 43b disposed radially outward on the axis S. In this embodiment, the openings 41, 42, and 43 are formed independently.

[0112] The opening 41 is connected to the outlet port 13b via the downstream flow path 113 and the flow path 13a of the outlet pipe 13, forming a first fixed flow path for cooling water to flow. The opening 42 is connected to the outlet port 14b via the downstream flow path 114 and the flow path 14a of the outlet pipe 14, forming a second fixed flow path for cooling water to flow.

[0113] The opening 43 forms a through chamber and is covered by the bottom 110 from the other side in the axial direction Sa. The opening 43 is covered by the cover 34 of the drive valve 30 from the side in the axial direction Sa. The opening 43 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 of the cooling water flow path 111 via the connecting opening 32.

[0114] An outer peripheral surface 44 is continuously formed in the radially outer side of the fixed valve 40, extending along the circumferential direction centered on the axis S. The outer peripheral surface 44 is formed to continuously cover the openings 41, 42, and 43 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S.

[0115] Fixed valve 40 Figure 11 as well as Figure 12 As shown, it includes an annular portion 45 and beam portions 46, 47, and 48. The annular portion 45 is formed in an annular shape centered on the axis S, surrounding the openings 41, 42, and 43 radially outward from the axis S.

[0116] Beams 46, 47, and 48 are formed to extend radially along axis S. Beams 46, 47, and 48 are staggered in a circumferential direction centered on axis S.

[0117] Beam 46 is positioned between openings 41 and 42. Beam 47 is positioned between openings 41 and 43. Beam 48 is positioned between openings 43 and 42.

[0118] The outer radial portion of beam 46, centered on axis S, connects to the ring portion 45. The outer radial portion of beam 47, centered on axis S, connects to the ring portion 45. The outer radial portion of beam 48, centered on axis S, connects to the ring portion 45. The inner radial portions of beams 46, 47, and 48, centered on axis S, connect to each other.

[0119] In this embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, the fan-shaped region 45a of the fixed valve 40, which is disposed on one side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening 41 and on the other side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening 42, and the beam portion 46 are supported by the bottom 110 from the other side of the axial direction.

[0120] The fan-shaped region 45a includes the area of ​​the annular portion 45 disposed on one side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening portion 41 and on the other side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening portion 42, as well as the beam portions 47 and 48.

[0121] The fan-shaped region 45b of the annular portion 45, which is disposed on the other side of the circumferential direction centered on the axis S relative to the beam portion 47 and on the side of the circumferential direction centered on the axis S relative to the beam portion 48, is supported by the outer peripheral support portion 11b.

[0122] The bottom 110 is positioned on the opposite side of the upstream flow path 112 in the housing body 11, in the axial direction Sa. The bottom 110 is configured to cover the upstream flow path 112 from the opposite side in the axial direction Sa. The outer peripheral support 11b is as follows... Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, it is formed as a radially inward protrusion from the inner wall 11a of the shell body 11 towards the axis S.

[0123] Washer 50 Figure 6 as well as Figure 8 As shown, the gasket 50 is positioned on the opposite side of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa. The gasket 50 is positioned on one side of the housing body 11 in the axial direction Sa, relative to the bottom 110 and the outer peripheral support 11b.

[0124] The washer 50 is supported from the other side of the axial direction Sa by the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the outer peripheral support 11b. For example... Figure 13 , Figure 14 As shown, the washer 50 is formed in the shape of a plate whose axis is aligned with axis S. Specifically, the washer 50 is formed in the shape of a circular plate centered on axis S.

[0125] Washer 50 forms openings 51, 52, and 53. Openings 51, 52, and 53 are formed to extend through along the axial direction Sa. Openings 51, 52, and 53 are arranged in a circumferential direction centered on the axis S.

[0126] Specifically, opening 51 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 53 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S. Opening 52 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 51 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S. Opening 53 is disposed on the opposite side of opening 52 in a circumferential direction centered on axis S.

[0127] The opening 51 is configured to overlap with the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa. The opening 51 communicates with the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40. The opening 51 is connected to the outlet port 13b through the downstream flow path 113 and the pipe flow path 13a of the outlet pipe 13.

[0128] The opening 51 in the washer 50 is a fan-shaped opening with the apex 51a disposed radially inside the axis S and the circumferential portion 51b disposed radially outside the axis S.

[0129] The opening 52 is configured to overlap with the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa. The opening 52 communicates with the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40. The opening 52 is connected to the outlet port 14b through the downstream flow path 114 and the pipe flow path 14a of the outlet pipe 14.

[0130] The opening 52 in the washer 50 is a fan-shaped opening with the apex 52a disposed radially inside the axis S and the circumferential portion 52b disposed radially outside the axis S.

[0131] The opening 53 is configured to overlap with the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa. The opening 53 communicates with the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40. The opening 53 is covered by the bottom 110 from the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0132] The opening 53 in the washer 50 is a fan-shaped opening with the apex 53a disposed radially inside the axis S and the circumferential portion 53b disposed radially outside the axis S.

[0133] An outer peripheral surface 54 is continuously formed in the circumferential direction centered on the axis S on the radially outer side of the washer 50. The outer peripheral surface 54 is formed to continuously cover the openings 51, 52, and 53 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S.

[0134] Washer 50 Figure 13 as well as Figure 14As shown, it includes an annular portion 55 and beam portions 56, 57, and 58. The annular portion 55 is formed in an annular shape centered on the axis S, surrounding the openings 51, 52, and 53 radially outward from the axis S.

[0135] Beams 56, 57, and 58 are arranged circumferentially around axis S. Beams 56, 57, and 58 are formed to extend radially around axis S. Beam 56 is positioned between openings 51 and 52. Beam 57 is positioned between openings 51 and 53. Beam 58 is positioned between openings 53 and 52.

[0136] The outer radial portion of beam 56, centered on axis S, is connected to the ring portion 55. The outer radial portion of beam 57, centered on axis S, is connected to the ring portion 55. The outer radial portion of beam 58, centered on axis S, is connected to the ring portion 55. The inner radial portions of beams 56, 57, and 58, centered on axis S, are connected.

[0137] The fan-shaped region 55a and the beam portion 56 of the washer 50, which are disposed on one side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening 51 and on the other side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening 52, are supported by the bottom 110 from the other side of the axial direction.

[0138] The fan-shaped region 55a includes the area of ​​the annular portion 55 disposed on one side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening portion 51 and on the other side of the circumferential direction relative to the opening portion 52, and the beam portions 57 and 58.

[0139] The fan-shaped region 55a is configured to overlap with the fan-shaped region 45a of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa. The beam portion 56 is configured to overlap with the beam portion 46 of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa.

[0140] The fan-shaped region 55b in the annular portion 55, which is disposed on the opposite side of the beam portion 57 in the circumferential direction centered on the axis S and on the side of the beam portion 58 in the circumferential direction centered on the axis S, is supported by the outer peripheral support portion 11b. The fan-shaped region 55b is configured to overlap with the fan-shaped region 45b of the fixed valve 40 in the axial direction Sa.

[0141] In this embodiment, the washer 50 is pushed by the elastic force of the spring 60 and becomes compressed through elastic deformation between the outer peripheral support 11b, the bottom 110 and the fixed valve 40 of the housing 10.

[0142] Thus, the gasket 50 acts as a sealing component, sealing the bottom 110 and the outer peripheral support 11b with the fixed valve 40.

[0143] Specifically, gasket 50 seals the opening portion 41c of the fixed valve 40 that forms the opening 41 with the bottom 110 and the outer peripheral support portion 11b of the housing 10. Gasket 50 also seals the opening portion 42c of the fixed valve 40 that forms the opening 42 with the bottom 110 and the outer peripheral support portion 11b of the housing 10.

[0144] The gasket 50 seals the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the outer peripheral support 11b with the opening 43c of the opening 43 in the fixed valve 40. The gasket 50 is made of an elastic material such as rubber or resin that can be elastically deformed.

[0145] Spring 60 Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, it is disposed within the upstream flow path 112 and supported by the housing 23 of the actuator device 21. The spring 60 serves as a pressing component, such as... Figure 15 Like arrow Ba, it generates a spring force that presses the drive valve 30 toward the other side in the axial direction Sa. The spring 60 is, for example, a compression spring, i.e., a compression helical spring.

[0146] Next, refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 The operation of the valve device in this embodiment will be explained. Figure 5 , Figure 7 This is a view of the drive valve 30 inside the housing 10 of the valve device in this embodiment, viewed from the side along the axial direction Sa. Figure 5 , Figure 7 The diagrams of drive shaft 22 and spring 60 are omitted in the original text.

[0147] First, such as Figure 7 As shown, the cover 34 of the drive valve 30 covers the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40, and the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 is connected to the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40.

[0148] At this time, cooling water flows into pipe flow path 12a through inlet port 12b of inlet pipe 12. Simultaneously, the cooling water flowing through pipe flow path 12a flows towards upstream flow path 112.

[0149] At this time, the cooling water in the upstream side flow path 112 is as follows Figure 8 As shown by arrow W1, the flow flows through the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 to the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40 and the opening 51 of the gasket 50 to the downstream flow path 113.

[0150] Therefore, the cooling water in the downstream side flow path 113 is discharged from the outlet port 13b through the pipe flow path 13a of the outlet pipe 13.

[0151] Thus, with the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 connected to the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40, the opening 43 is not sealed, and the interior of the opening 43 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the connecting opening 32.

[0152] Therefore, the cooling water flows from the upstream flow path 112 into the interior of the opening 43 through the connecting opening 32.

[0153] Next, the electric motor 21a, controlled by the electronic control unit 70, outputs rotational force to the drive valve 30 via the gear mechanism 21b. Thus, the gear mechanism 21b causes the drive valve 30 to rotate about axis S in the circumferential direction to the other side.

[0154] Therefore, as Figure 5 As shown, the cover 34 of the drive valve 30 covers the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40, and the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 is connected to the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40.

[0155] At this time, the cooling water flowing towards the upstream flow path 112 through the inlet port 12b of the inlet pipe 12 and the flow path 12a is as follows: Figure 6 As shown by the middle arrow W2, the flow flows through the flow path openings 31, 42, and 52 of the drive valve 30 to the downstream flow path 114.

[0156] As a result, the cooling water in the downstream side flow path 114 is discharged from the outlet port 14b through the pipe flow path 14a of the outlet pipe 14.

[0157] Thus, with the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 connected to the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40, the opening 43 is not sealed, and the interior of the opening 43 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the connecting opening 32. Therefore, cooling water flows from the upstream flow path 112 into the interior of the opening 43 through the connecting opening 32.

[0158] Next, the actuator device 21 causes the drive valve 30 to rotate around the axis S via the drive shaft 22, so that the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 is in a state of communication with the openings 41 and 42 of the fixed valve 40 respectively.

[0159] At this time, the cooling water in the upstream flow path 112 flows to the downstream flow path 113 through the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30, the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40, and the opening 51 of the gasket 50. Then, the cooling water in the downstream flow path 113 is discharged from the outlet port 13b through the pipe flow path 13a of the outlet pipe 13.

[0160] In addition, the cooling water in the upstream flow path 112 flows to the downstream flow path 114 through the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30, the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40, and the opening 52 of the gasket 50. Then, the cooling water in the downstream flow path 114 is discharged from the outlet port 14b through the pipe flow path 14a of the outlet pipe 14.

[0161] Thus, the cooling water in the upstream side flow path 112 is discharged from the outlet port 13b of the outlet pipe 13 and the outlet port 14b of the outlet pipe 14.

[0162] Here, the actuator device 21 causes the drive valve 30 to rotate circumferentially to the other side around axis S via the drive shaft 22. This reduces the area of ​​communication between the flow path opening 31 and opening 41, and increases the area of ​​communication between the flow path opening 31 and opening 42.

[0163] As a result, the flow rate of cooling water discharged from the outlet port 13b through the pipe flow path 13a of the upstream flow path 112, the flow path opening 31, the opening 41, the downstream flow path 113, and the outlet pipe 13 is reduced.

[0164] On the other hand, the flow rate of cooling water discharged from the outlet port 14b through the pipe flow path 14a of the upstream flow path 112, the flow path opening 31, the opening 42, the downstream flow path 114, and the outlet pipe 14 increases.

[0165] Furthermore, the actuator device 21 causes the drive valve 30 to rotate circumferentially about axis S via the drive shaft 22. This increases the area of ​​communication between the flow path opening 31 and opening 41, and decreases the area of ​​communication between the flow path opening 31 and opening 42.

[0166] As a result, the flow rate of cooling water discharged from the outlet port 13b through the pipe flow path 13a of the upstream flow path 112, the flow path opening 31, the opening 41, the downstream flow path 113, and the outlet pipe 13 increases.

[0167] On the other hand, the flow rate of cooling water discharged from the outlet port 14b through the pipe flow path 14a of the upstream flow path 112, the flow path opening 31, the opening 42, the downstream flow path 114, and the outlet pipe 14 is reduced.

[0168] Thus, with the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 connected to the openings 41 and 42 of the fixed valve 40 respectively, the opening 43 is not sealed, and the interior of the opening 43 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the connecting opening 32. Therefore, cooling water flows from the upstream flow path 112 into the interior of the opening 43 through the connecting opening 32.

[0169] According to the embodiment described above, the valve device includes a housing 10, a drive valve 30, a fixed valve 40, and a gasket 50. The housing 10 forms an inlet port 12b for cooling water to enter, a cooling water flow path 111 for cooling water flowing in from the inlet port 12b, and outlet ports 13b and 14b for discharging fluid that has passed through the cooling water flow path 111.

[0170] Fixed valve 40 has openings 41, 42, and 43 arranged circumferentially around axis S. Opening 41 forms a first flow path for cooling water and is connected to outlet port 13b. Opening 42 is connected to outlet port 14b. Opening 43 forms a through chamber extending along the axial direction Sa.

[0171] The drive valve 30 is configured to cover the openings 41, 42, and 43 of the fixed valve 40 on one side of the cooling water flow path 111 in the axial direction Sa. The drive valve 30 is configured to rotate freely about the axis S.

[0172] The drive valve 30 forms a flow path opening 31, a communication opening 32, and a cover 34 that covers the openings 41 and 42 from one side of the axial direction Sa, constituting a second flow path. The drive valve 30 is configured such that rotation of the valve causes the flow path opening 31 to communicate with at least one of the openings 41 and 42.

[0173] The housing 10 has a bottom 110, which is formed to cover the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 from the other side of the axial direction Sa and to support the fixed valve 40 from the other side of the axial direction Sa.

[0174] For example, when the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 is connected to the opening 41 of the fixed valve 40, the inlet port 12b and the outlet port 13b are connected through the flow path opening 31 and the opening 41.

[0175] Furthermore, when the flow path opening 31 of the drive valve 30 is connected to the opening 42 of the fixed valve 40, the inlet port 12b and the outlet port 14b are connected through the flow path opening 31 and the opening 42.

[0176] The drive valve 30 forms a connecting opening 32 that connects the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 to the upstream flow path 112. The connecting opening 32 is formed such that the drive valve 30 passes through the opening 41 along the axial direction Sa. The upstream flow path 112 is positioned upstream of the cooling water flow path 111 relative to the drive valve 30 and the fixed valve 40 in the cooling water flow path 111.

[0177] Here, as Figure 16 , Figure 17 , Figure 18 , Figure 19As shown, if the drive valve 30 does not have a communication opening 32, the following undesirable situation occurs. That is, the opening 43 becomes a sealed area sealed by the cover 34 of the fixed valve 40, the bottom 110 of the housing body 11, and the opening forming part 43c in the fixed valve 40 that forms the opening 43.

[0178] When air is sealed within a closed area, at high temperatures, the air in the closed area expands, causing the drive valve 30 to shift towards one side of the axis. This creates a gap between the drive valve 30 and the stationary valve 40. Conversely, at low temperatures, the air in the closed area contracts, pulling the drive valve 30 closer to the other side of the axis. This increases the friction between the stationary valve 40 and the drive valve 30.

[0179] In this embodiment, the drive valve 30, as described above, forms a communication opening 32 that connects the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 with the upstream flow path 112.

[0180] Based on the above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates the sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30. Therefore, there will be no situation where the drive valve 30 is displaced to one side of the axial direction at high temperatures or pulled closer to the other side of the axial direction at low temperatures.

[0181] According to the above-described embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0182] (1) The drive valve 30 has an outer peripheral surface 33 that is formed to cover the flow path opening 31 and the connecting opening 32 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S. The outer peripheral surface 33 is continuously formed in the circumferential direction centered on the axis S.

[0183] Here, the drive valve 30 is a ceramic disc valve manufactured through a slurry firing process. The slurry is a fluid containing resin and metallic materials, which becomes the raw material for ceramics.

[0184] Therefore, compared with a drive valve that configures the flow path opening 31 as a cut-out hole opening radially outward centered on the axis S, the drive valve 30 of this embodiment is less likely to generate strain during the firing process.

[0185] Therefore, the drive valve 30 of this embodiment is less likely to cause deviation in the position of the flow path opening 31 during the slurry firing process. Consequently, the flow rate control of the fluid flowing to the openings 41 and 42 can be implemented with high precision.

[0186] (2) It has an outer peripheral surface 44 that covers the openings 41, 42, and 43 in the fixed valve 40 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S, and the outer peripheral surface 44 is continuously formed in the circumferential direction centered on the axis S.

[0187] Here, the fixed valve 40 is a ceramic disc valve manufactured through the firing process of the slurry.

[0188] Therefore, compared with the fixed valve in this embodiment, which has the openings 41 to 43 configured as cut-out holes opening radially outward with the axis S as the center, the fixed valve 40 is less likely to generate strain during the firing process.

[0189] Therefore, the fixed valve 40 of this embodiment is less prone to deviations in the positions of the openings 41, 42, and 43 during the slurry firing process. Consequently, the flow rate control of the fluid flowing into the openings 41 and 42 can be implemented with high precision.

[0190] (3) The spring 60 is disposed in the upstream flow path 112 and is supported by the housing 23 of the actuator device 21. It uses elastic force to generate an elastic force that presses the drive valve 30 toward the other side of the axial direction Sa.

[0191] Therefore, the spring force of the spring 60 can apply force to the washer 50 from the drive valve 30 via the fixed valve 40. As a result, the washer 50 is compressed by elastic deformation between the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 and the outer peripheral support 11b and the fixed valve 40.

[0192] Therefore, the gasket 50 improves the sealing performance between the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 and the outer peripheral support 11b and the fixed valve 40. Furthermore, the spring force of the spring 60 allows the sliding surface of the drive valve 30 to make appropriate contact with the sliding surface of the fixed valve 40.

[0193] (4) Spring 60 is a compression spring that is positioned on one side of the axis Sa relative to the drive valve 30 and generates a spring force that presses the drive valve 30 against the fixed valve 40.

[0194] Therefore, even if Figure 20 As shown, even when the axis of spring 60 is tilted relative to axis S, spring 60 can still impart sufficient elastic force to drive valve 30.

[0195] (5) The gasket 50 seals the space between the fixed valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11. Specifically, the gasket 50 seals the space between the opening 41c of the fixed valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11.

[0196] Furthermore, the gasket 50 seals the opening portion 42c of the fixed valve 40 (forming the opening portion 42) with the bottom 110 of the housing body 11. The gasket 50 also seals the opening portion 43c of the fixed valve 40 (forming the opening portion 43) with the bottom 110 of the housing body 11.

[0197] Therefore, it is possible to prevent cooling water from leaking between the fixed valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11.

[0198] (6) As a fixed valve 40, a disc valve is used that is formed in a plate shape and whose thickness direction is aligned with the axial direction Sa. Therefore, the dimension of the valve device in the axial direction Sa can be reduced.

[0199] (7) As the driving valve 30, a disc valve is used that is formed in a plate shape and whose thickness direction is aligned with the axial direction Sa. Therefore, the size of the valve device in the axial direction Sa can be reduced.

[0200] (Second Implementation)

[0201] In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which a spring 60 was provided to apply force from the drive valve 30 to the fixed valve 40, but the spring 60 may be omitted instead, as in this second embodiment.

[0202] In this case, the water pressure of the cooling water in the upstream flow path 112 is as follows: Figure 21 As indicated by arrow W, the drive valve 30 is applied to the other side of the axial direction Sa. Therefore, the gasket 50 is compressed by elastic deformation between the outer peripheral support 11b of the housing 10, the bottom 110, and the fixed valve 40, utilizing the water pressure applied from the drive valve 30 via the fixed valve 40. Thus, the gasket 50 seals the bottom 110 and the area between the outer peripheral support 11b and the fixed valve 40.

[0203] (Third Implementation)

[0204] In the first embodiment described above, an example with a coiled spring 60 was given, but it can also be replaced by, for example... Figure 22 A rubber spring 60A is set as shown.

[0205] The spring 60A of this embodiment includes a spring body 61 that passes through the drive valve 30, the fixed valve 40, and the washer 50, and a head 62 located on one side in the axial direction Sa. The spring body 61 is configured to be elongated and slender, extending from the head 62 to the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0206] The head 62 is larger than the through hole in the drive valve 30 through which the spring body 61 passes. The other side of the spring body 61 in the axial direction Sa is fixed to the bottom 110 of the housing body 11.

[0207] In this embodiment configured as such, the spring 60A generates its head 62 as a result of elastic force. Figure 22 The spring force, as shown by arrow Ga, presses the drive valve 30 towards the other side of the axial direction Sa. Thus, the spring force is applied from the drive valve 30 to the washer 50 via the fixed valve 40.

[0208] Therefore, similar to the first embodiment described above, the gasket 50 is compressed through elastic deformation between the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 and the outer peripheral support 11b and the fixed valve 40. Thus, the gasket 50 can seal the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 and the outer peripheral support 11b with the fixed valve 40.

[0209] (Fourth Implementation)

[0210] In this fourth embodiment, refer to Figure 23 , Figure 24 A valve device in which a helical spring 80 is added to the valve device of the first embodiment described above will be described.

[0211] Figure 23 The spring 60, the helical spring 80, and the drive shaft 22 are shown, which are disposed on one side of the drive valve 30 in the axial direction Sa relative to the valve device housing 10 of this embodiment.

[0212] In this embodiment, the helical spring 80 is wound into a helical shape centered on the drive shaft 22 (i.e., axis S). The helical spring 80 is positioned radially outward relative to the spring 60, centered on the axis S.

[0213] One end 82 of the helical spring 80 in the axial direction Sa is fixed by the housing 23 of the actuator 20. The other end of the helical spring 80 in the axial direction Sa is fixed to the drive valve 30 by the fixing part 81.

[0214] The helical spring 80 is used in a state where it undergoes elastic deformation (i.e., torsional elastic deformation) by twisting in a circumferential direction centered on the axis S. Through this torsional elastic deformation, the helical spring 80 generates a force Ka that applies a force to one side of the drive valve 30 in the circumferential direction.

[0215] In summary, the helical spring 80 is an elastic component that generates the force Ka through its torsional elastic deformation. Thus, the helical spring 80 functions as a torsion spring.

[0216] The force Ka of the helical spring 80 is transmitted as a rotational force sequentially to the drive valve 30, drive shaft 22, gear mechanism 21b, and electric motor 21a. Therefore, during the operation of the valve device, even when the electric motor 21a is not rotating, a reaction force is generated that counteracts the force Fc of the helical spring 18.

[0217] Therefore, during the operation of the valve device, even when the electric motor 21a is not rotating, a reaction force is generated that counteracts the force Ka of the helical spring 80.

[0218] The helical spring 80 acts as a force-applying component, applying force to the drive valve 30 in the circumferential direction, thereby pressing one tooth of a pair of teeth in contact with each other at all meshing points of the gears in the gear mechanism 21b against the other tooth.

[0219] For example, when the rotational force of the electric motor 21a causes the drive valve 30 to rotate in the opposite direction of the circumference centered on the axis S via the gear mechanism 21b, such as Figure 24 In the same manner as Ha, the teeth 24a of the gear 24 in the gear mechanism 21b press against the teeth 22a of the drive shaft 22.

[0220] Here, the gear 24 in the gear mechanism 21b is a gear that transmits the rotational force of the electric motor 21a to the drive shaft 22 by meshing with the drive shaft 22.

[0221] Therefore, compared to a situation where, for example, there is no force exerted by the helical spring 80, the opening deviation of the fixed valve 40 openings 41 and 42 caused by the clearance of the gear 24 and the drive shaft 22 can be suppressed. Thus, high-precision flow control of cooling water can be achieved in the valve assembly.

[0222] (Fifth Implementation)

[0223] In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which a gasket 50 is provided between the fixed valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11. However, the gasket 50 between the fixed valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 can be omitted instead, as in this fifth embodiment.

[0224] In the valve device of this embodiment, such as Figure 25 As shown, the fixed valve 40 is configured to directly contact the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 and the outer peripheral support 11b.

[0225] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0226] In the first embodiment described above, an example is given in which the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30 is formed to be covered by the outer peripheral surface 33 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S.

[0227] However, refer to Figure 26 , Figure 27 , Figure 28 , Figure 29 This sixth embodiment describes a drive valve 30 that instead uses a connecting opening 32 configured as a cutting hole opening radially outward centered on axis S.

[0228] In this embodiment, the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30 is formed as a cut-off hole that extends through along the axial direction Sa and opens radially outward with the axis S as the center.

[0229] According to the embodiment described above, the drive valve 30 forms a flow path opening 31 and a communication opening 32 that are connected to at least one of the openings 41 and 42 of the fixed valve 40. The communication opening 32 connects the opening 43 to the upstream flow path 112.

[0230] Based on the above, similar to the first embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0231] In this embodiment, as described above, the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30 forms a cut-out hole that extends along the axial direction Sa and opens radially outward with the axis S as the center.

[0232] Therefore, compared to the first embodiment described above, which uses a drive valve 30 configured to cover the communication opening 32 radially outward from the axis S, the area of ​​the sliding surface of the drive valve 30 can be reduced. This, in turn, reduces the friction between the drive valve 30 and the stationary valve 40.

[0233] In addition, in this embodiment, the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30 is configured as a cut-out hole that opens radially outward about the axis S. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment described above, the material constituting the drive valve 30 can be reduced, thereby reducing costs.

[0234] (Seventh Implementation)

[0235] In the first embodiment described above, an example was described in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 was connected to the upstream flow path 112 by means of the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30.

[0236] However, refer to Figure 30 , Figure 31 , Figure 32 This seventh embodiment describes a method in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 via the communication hole 49 and the gap 130 of the fixed valve 40.

[0237] The connecting hole 49 is a through-through connecting portion that extends radially outward from the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 in the annular portion 45 centered on the axis S. The annular portion 45 of the fixed valve 40 is formed to cover the connecting hole 49 on one side and the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0238] The gap 130 is a spaced connection portion formed in a circumferential direction with the axis S as the center between the fixed valve 40 and the drive valve 30 and the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11.

[0239] Here, the gap 130 connects the connecting hole 49 to the upstream flow path 112. The gap 130 and the connecting hole 49 together form a connecting path that connects the opening 43 to the upstream flow path 112.

[0240] According to the embodiment described above, the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 via the communication hole 49 of the fixed valve 40 and the gap 130.

[0241] Based on the above, similar to the first embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0242] In this embodiment, as described above, the connecting hole 49 extends radially outward from the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 in the annular portion 45 of the fixed valve 40, centered on the axis S. The annular portion 45 of the fixed valve 40 is formed to cover the connecting hole 49 from one side and the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0243] Therefore, compared to a fixed valve in which the connecting hole 49 forms a cutting hole that extends along the axial direction Sa and opens radially outward with the axis S as the center, the fixed valve 40 of this embodiment is less likely to generate strain during the slurry firing process.

[0244] Therefore, the fixed valve 40 of this embodiment is less prone to deviations in the positions of the openings 41, 42, and 43. Consequently, the flow rate control of the fluid flowing into the openings 41 and 42 can be implemented with high precision.

[0245] (Eighth Implementation Method)

[0246] In the first embodiment described above, an example is given in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is covered by the outer peripheral surface 44 from the radially outer side centered on the axis S.

[0247] However, refer to Figure 33 , Figure 34 , Figure 35 This eighth embodiment describes a cut-off hole formed by the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40, which instead passes through along the axial direction Sa and opens radially outward with the axis S as the center.

[0248] In this embodiment, the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 forms a through chamber, which is connected to the upstream flow path 112 via a gap 130. The gap 130 is as follows: Figure 34 as well as Figure 35 As shown, a circumferential gap 130 is formed between the fixed valve 40 and the drive valve 30 and the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11, centered on the axis S. The gap 130 connects the opening 43 and the upstream flow path 112.

[0249] Based on the above, similar to the first embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0250] In this embodiment, the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is formed as a cut-out hole that extends through along the axial direction Sa and opens radially outward centered on the axis S. Therefore, compared to the first embodiment described above, which uses a fixed valve 40 configured to cover the opening 43 radially outward centered on the axis S, the sliding surface area of ​​the fixed valve 40 can be reduced. This reduces the frictional force between the drive valve 30 and the fixed valve 40.

[0251] In addition, in this embodiment, the opening 43 in the fixed valve 40 forms a cut-out hole that opens radially outward about the axis S. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment described above, the material constituting the fixed valve 40 can be reduced, thereby reducing costs.

[0252] (Ninth Implementation)

[0253] In the first embodiment described above, an example was given in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the communication opening 32 of the drive valve 30. However, instead, refer to... Figure 36 The ninth embodiment will be described in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the communication hole 120 and the gap 130 of the housing 10.

[0254] In this embodiment, the communication hole 120 of the housing 10 is a through-through communication portion formed radially around the bottom 110 with the axis S as the center. The communication hole 120 has an opening 121 that opens into the opening 43 in the axial direction Sa and an opening 122 that opens into the gap 130 in the axial direction Sa.

[0255] Thus, the connecting hole 120 enables the interior of the opening 43 to communicate with the gap 130.

[0256] The gap 130 is formed circumferentially around the axis S between the fixed valve 40 and the drive valve 30 and the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11. The gap 130 is a spaced connection portion that connects the connecting hole 120 with the upstream flow path 112.

[0257] Thus, the interior of the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the connecting hole 120 and the gap 130 of the housing 10.

[0258] In this embodiment, a canopy portion 120a is formed at the bottom 110, which covers the housing 10 with a communication hole 120 extending from the other side of the axial direction Sa. An opening 121 is formed radially inward relative to the canopy portion 120a, centered on the axis S. An opening 122 is formed radially outward relative to the canopy portion 120a, centered on the axis S. Furthermore, the valve device of this embodiment is a valve device that replaces the communication hole 120 and gap 130 in the valve device of the first embodiment described above; therefore, the description of the configuration other than the communication hole 120 and gap 130 is omitted.

[0259] According to the above-described embodiment, in the valve device, the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the communication hole 120 and the gap 130 of the housing 10.

[0260] Based on the above, similar to the first embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0261] (Tenth Implementation)

[0262] In the ninth embodiment described above, an example is described in which a canopy portion 120a is formed on the other side of the housing 10, which covers the communication hole 120 of the housing 10 that connects the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 with the upstream flow path 112.

[0263] However, refer to Figure 37 The tenth embodiment will be described in which the canopy portion 120a covering the connecting hole 120 from the other side of the bottom 110 of the housing 10 in the axial direction Sa is removed.

[0264] In the valve device of this embodiment, similar to the ninth embodiment described above, the communication hole 120 of the housing 10 has an opening 121 at the bottom 110 that opens in the opening 43 to the side in the axial direction Sa and an opening 122 that opens in the gap 130 to the side in the axial direction Sa.

[0265] However, as described above, in this embodiment, a canopy portion 120a covering the connecting hole 120 from the other side of the axial direction Sa is not formed. Therefore, the connecting hole 120 opens at the bottom 110 of the housing 10 towards the side of the axial direction Sa. That is, the connecting hole 120 forms a cut-out hole at the bottom 110 of the housing 10 that opens towards the side of the axial direction Sa.

[0266] The gap 130 is formed circumferentially around the axis S between the fixed valve 40 and the drive valve 30 and the inner wall 11a of the housing body 11. The gap 130 is a spaced connection portion that connects the connecting hole 120 with the upstream flow path 112.

[0267] Thus, the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the connecting hole 120 and the gap 130 of the housing 10.

[0268] According to the above-described embodiment, similar to the ninth embodiment described above, in the valve device, the interior of the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the communication hole 120 and the gap 130 of the housing 10.

[0269] Based on the above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates the sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0270] (Eleventh Implementation Method)

[0271] In the ninth embodiment described above, an example is given in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the upstream flow path 112 through the communication hole 120 of the bottom 110 of the housing 10.

[0272] However, instead, refer to Figure 38 This eleventh embodiment describes how the connecting hole 120A connects the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 to the downstream flow path 114.

[0273] In the valve device of this embodiment, a connecting hole 120A is provided at the bottom 110 of the housing 10 instead of a connecting hole 120. The connecting hole 120A connects only one of the downstream flow paths 113 and 114 to the opening 43.

[0274] The downstream flow path 114 is the first downstream flow path in the cooling water flow path 111, which is configured on the downstream side of the cooling water flow relative to the drive valve 30 and the fixed valve 40. The downstream flow paths 113 and 114 are independently provided at the bottom 110 of the housing 10.

[0275] Furthermore, the valve device of this embodiment is identical to the valve device of the ninth embodiment described above, except for the connecting holes 120A and 120, so the description of the other components is omitted.

[0276] Based on the above, similar to the first embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0277] (Twelfth Implementation)

[0278] In the eleventh embodiment described above, an example is given in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the downstream flow path 114 through the connecting hole 120A.

[0279] However, instead, refer to Figure 39This twelfth embodiment describes a method in which the opening 43 of the fixed valve 40 is connected to the downstream flow path 113 through the connecting hole 120B.

[0280] In the valve device of this embodiment, the connecting hole 120B is provided instead of the connecting hole 120A of the eleventh embodiment described above.

[0281] The connecting hole 120B connects only one of the downstream flow paths 113 and 114, the downstream flow path 113, to the opening 43. The downstream flow path 113 is the second downstream flow path in the cooling water flow path 111, which is disposed on the downstream side of the cooling water flow relative to the drive valve 30 and the fixed valve 40.

[0282] Furthermore, the valve device of this embodiment is identical to the valve device of the eleventh embodiment described above, except for the connecting holes 120A and 120B; therefore, the description of the other components is omitted.

[0283] Based on the above, similar to the eleventh embodiment described above, a valve device can be provided that eliminates a sealed area between the bottom 110 of the housing 10 and the drive valve 30.

[0284] (Other implementation methods)

[0285] (1) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, an example of using cooling water as the fluid flowing in the valve device was given. However, other fluids besides cooling water may also be used as the fluid flowing in the valve device. For example, liquids or gases other than cooling water may also be used as other fluids.

[0286] (2) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, an example of using a compression coil spring as spring 60 was described. However, other elastic components other than compression coil springs may also be used as spring 60.

[0287] Other elastic components include various types of springs such as tension springs, torsion coil springs, leaf springs, conical springs, coil springs, clock springs, and wire springs.

[0288] (3) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, an example was described in which two outlet ports 14b and 13b are provided in the housing 10. However, it is also possible to provide one outlet port or three or more outlet ports in the housing 10 instead.

[0289] (4) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, an example was described in which the fixing valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 were made as separate components. However, instead, the fixing valve 40 and the bottom 110 of the housing body 11 can also be made as an integrated component without the gasket 50.

[0290] (5) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, examples of driving valve 30 and fixed valve 40 being made of ceramic were described, but instead, driving valve 30 and fixed valve 40 may be made of resin material.

[0291] (6) In the first to twelfth embodiments described above, an example of the shell 10 being made of resin material was described. However, the shell 10 may also be made of metal material or ceramic material.

[0292] (7) In the third embodiment described above, an example is described that includes a helical spring 80 that generates a force Ka that applies force Ka to one side of the drive valve 30 in the circumferential direction by torsional elastic deformation, and a spring 60 that presses the drive valve 30 to the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0293] Alternatively, an elastic component can be formed by a helical spring, which generates a force Ka that applies force to one side of the drive valve 30 in the circumferential direction by torsional elastic deformation, and presses the drive valve 30 to the other side in the axial direction Sa.

[0294] (8) The above embodiments are not unrelated to each other. Except in cases where the combination is obviously impossible, they can be appropriately combined. For example, the second embodiment can be combined with the first, third to twelfth embodiments, and the third embodiment can be combined with the first, second, fourth to twelfth embodiments.

[0295] The fourth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to third and fifth to twelfth embodiments described above. The fifth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to fourth and sixth to twelfth embodiments described above. The sixth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to fifth and seventh to twelfth embodiments described above. The seventh embodiment described above can be combined with the first to sixth and eighth to twelfth embodiments described above.

[0296] The eighth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to seventh, and ninth to twelfth embodiments described above. The ninth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to eighth, and tenth to twelfth embodiments described above. The tenth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to ninth, eleventh, and twelfth embodiments described above. The eleventh embodiment described above can be combined with the first to tenth embodiments described above. The twelfth embodiment described above can be combined with the first to tenth embodiments described above.

[0297] (9) Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and appropriate modifications may be made within the scope of the claims. Additionally, in the above embodiments, the elements constituting the embodiments are not necessarily essential, except where specifically stated as necessary or where they are explicitly considered necessary in principle. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, when referring to the number, value, quantity, range, etc., of the constituent elements of the embodiments, the quantity is not limited to that specific quantity, except where specifically stated as necessary or where it is explicitly limited to a specific number in principle. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, when referring to the shape, positional relationship, etc., of the constituent elements, the shape, positional relationship, etc., is not limited to that shape, positional relationship, etc., except where specifically stated as necessary or where it is limited to a specific shape, positional relationship in principle. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, when it is described that external environmental information (e.g., humidity outside the vehicle) is obtained from a sensor, the sensor may be discarded, and the external environmental information may be received from an external server or cloud. Alternatively, the sensor may be discarded, and relevant information related to the external environmental information may be obtained from an external server or cloud, and the external environmental information may be inferred based on the obtained relevant information.

Claims

1. A valve device, characterized in that, have: The shell forms a fluid flow path for the fluid to flow through; A fixed valve has an axis, and when the direction in which the axis extends is taken as the axial direction, the fixed valve is disposed in the fluid flow path, forming a first flow path for the fluid to flow through and a through chamber that extends along the axial direction; as well as A drive valve is disposed on one side of the fixed valve in the axial direction within the fluid flow path, forming a second flow path for the fluid to flow through. The drive valve is configured to rotate about the axis while sliding relative to the fixed valve, thereby connecting the second flow path with respect to the first flow path. The housing has a bottom formed in such a way that it covers the through chamber from the other side in the direction of the axis. The upstream flow path of the fluid flow path, which is positioned upstream of the driving valve and the fixed valve in the direction of fluid flow, is connected to the through chamber via a connecting path.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting path is formed to extend from the through chamber to one side in the axial direction through the drive valve. The drive valve has an outer periphery that is formed to cover the communication path radially outward from the axis.

3. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting passage forms a cut-out hole that extends from the through chamber along the axial direction through the drive valve and causes the drive valve to open radially outward with the axial direction as the center.

4. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The through chamber forms a cut-out hole that passes through the fixed valve along the axial direction and causes the fixed valve to open radially outward with the axial direction as the center.

5. The valve device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The housing has an inner wall forming the fluid flow path. The connecting passage has a spaced connecting portion formed between the drive valve and the fixed valve and the inner wall, thereby connecting the through chamber and the upstream flow path.

6. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting passage has a through-connecting portion that allows the fixed valve to pass through the through chamber to the radially outward side centered on the axis.

7. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting passage has a through connecting portion disposed at the bottom for connecting the through chamber with the upstream flow path.

8. The valve device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The through-connection portion forms a cut-out hole that opens to one side of the bottom in the direction of the axis.

9. The valve device according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The housing has an inner wall forming the fluid flow path. The connecting path has an interval connecting portion formed between the drive valve and the fixed valve and the inner wall, so that the through connecting portion is connected to the upstream flow path.

10. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a pressing member disposed within the fluid flow path and pressing the drive valve toward the other side in the axial direction.

11. The valve device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The pressing component is a compression spring that generates a spring force that presses the drive valve toward the other side in the axial direction.

12. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, have: Actuators that generate rotational force; The gear mechanism has multiple gears, and the rotational force generated by the actuator is transmitted to the drive valve through the meshing of the multiple gears. as well as The force-applying component applies force to the drive valve in a circumferential direction centered on the axis. The drive valve is subjected to force by the force-applying component and rotated by the rotational force transmitted from the gear mechanism.

13. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It has a sealing component that seals the space between the fixed valve and the bottom.

14. A valve device, characterized in that, have: The shell forms a fluid flow path for the fluid to flow through; A fixed valve has an axis, and when the direction in which the axis extends is taken as the axial direction, the fixed valve is disposed in the fluid flow path, forming a first flow path for the fluid to flow through and a through chamber that extends along the axial direction; as well as A drive valve is disposed on one side of the fixed valve in the axial direction within the fluid flow path, forming a second flow path for the fluid to flow through. The drive valve is configured to rotate about the axis while sliding relative to the fixed valve, thereby connecting the second flow path with respect to the first flow path. The housing has a bottom formed in such a way that it covers the through chamber from the other side in the direction of the axis. The downstream flow path of the fluid flow path, which is positioned downstream of the flow direction of the fluid relative to the drive valve and the fixed valve, is connected to the through chamber via a connecting path.

15. The valve device according to claim 14, characterized in that, When the first flow path is set as a first fixed flow path, the fixed valve forms a second fixed flow path for the fluid to flow through. The drive valve is configured such that it slides relative to the fixed valve while rotating about the axis, thereby connecting the second flow path with respect to either the first fixed flow path or one of the second fixed flow paths. The fluid flow path has a first downstream flow path and a second downstream flow path. The first downstream flow path allows the fluid that has passed through the first fixed flow path to flow through. The second downstream flow path is independently provided relative to the first downstream flow path and allows the fluid that has passed through the second fixed flow path to flow through. Only one of the first downstream flow path and the second downstream flow path is connected to the through chamber via the connecting path.

16. The valve device according to claim 14, characterized in that, It has a pressing member disposed within the fluid flow path and pressing the drive valve toward the other side in the axial direction.

17. The valve device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The pressing component is a compression spring that generates a spring force that presses the drive valve toward the other side in the axial direction.

18. The valve device according to claim 14, characterized in that, have: Actuators that generate rotational force; The gear mechanism has multiple gears, and the rotational force generated by the actuator is transmitted to the drive valve through the meshing of the multiple gears. as well as The force-applying component applies force to the drive valve in a circumferential direction centered on the axis. The drive valve is subjected to force by the force-applying component and rotated by the rotational force transmitted from the gear mechanism.

19. The valve device according to claim 14, characterized in that, It has a sealing component that seals the space between the fixed valve and the bottom.

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