Sliding switch valve and refrigeration cycle system using the same

Abstract

The present application provides a sliding switch valve and a refrigeration cycle system using the same, which smoothly and reliably performs axial core alignment of a valve body and a plunger tube as separate bodies, and firmly engages the engagement portions of each other, thereby being able to suppress leakage of working fluid from the engagement portions to the outside. In the sliding switch valve (100), the valve body (40) has a small-diameter portion (41), a large-diameter portion (42) that fixes the plunger tube (10), and a stepped portion (43), the large-diameter portion (42) is composed of a guide portion (42A) that guides the outer diameter of the plunger tube (10) and has a small gap with the outer diameter of the plunger tube (10), and an extension portion (42B) that has a larger gap with the outer diameter of the plunger tube (10) than the guide portion (42A), and a stopper that restricts movement of the plunger (20) to the other side in the axial direction is provided between the stepped portion (43) and the guide portion (42A). Thus, leakage of working fluid from the engagement portions to the outside can be suppressed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sliding switching valve comprising a separate valve body and a plunger tube. Background Technology

[0002] For example, in Patent Document 1 (particularly referring to paragraphs 0005-0006), a conventional sliding switching valve (hereinafter referred to as "conventional sliding switching valve") is described, which comprises a separate valve body and a plunger tube. In this conventional sliding switching valve, the valve body and the plunger tube are separate, which increases the assembly process. Therefore, mainly due to the following two problems, the working fluid such as refrigerant may leak to the outside from the joint between the valve body and the plunger tube.

[0003] First, when engaging the valve body and the plunger tube, it is difficult to secure the two components arranged on the concentric shaft, resulting in eccentricity (hereinafter referred to as "the previous problem (eccentricity of the joint)"). Second, each time the plunger abuts against the stop, a shearing force is repeatedly applied through the stop in the direction of the joint to be peeled off, resulting in insufficient strength at the joint (hereinafter referred to as "the previous problem (insufficient strength of the joint)").

[0004] In contrast, in patent document 1 (especially referring to paragraph 0040 and...) Figure 1 In this process, instead of separating the valve body and the plunger tube, the valve body and the plunger tube are integrally formed by deep drawing, thus eliminating the joint itself and eliminating the previous problems (eccentricity of the joint) and insufficient strength of the joint.

[0005] However, if the valve body and plunger tube are integrally formed, the following two new problems arise. First, the deeper the deep drawing, the more processing steps are required, potentially increasing costs. Second, large residual processing stresses are generated in the integrally formed product after deep drawing. Therefore, stress corrosion cracks caused by these residual processing stresses may lead to leakage of the working fluid to the outside.

[0006] Therefore, instead of creating new problems by integrally molding the valve body and plunger tube as in Patent Document 1, the applicant attempted to eliminate previous problems (eccentricity of the joint) and (insufficient strength of the joint) by designing the valve body and plunger tube as separate parts.

[0007] Patent Document 1: Chinese Utility Model No. 210920205 Specification Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the following problem, and its object is to provide a sliding switching valve that can smoothly and reliably align the valve body and the plunger tube as separate parts and firmly engage their joints, thereby preventing leakage of working fluid from the joints to the outside.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] To address the aforementioned issues, a sliding switching valve is provided, comprising: a bottomed cylindrical valve body formed from a thin plate, having an open end on one side in the axial direction; a cylindrical plunger tube fixed to the open end of the valve body; a plurality of connector tubes connected to the peripheral wall of the valve body and communicating with the interior of the valve body; a plunger capable of sliding in the axial direction within the plunger tube; and a sliding valve core connected to the plunger, which switches the communication state with the plurality of connector tubes by moving in the axial direction within the valve body. The valve body has: a small-diameter portion for housing the sliding valve core; and a large-diameter portion... The plunger tube is fixed by a portion having an inner diameter larger than that of the small-diameter portion; and a stepped portion formed between the small-diameter portion and the large-diameter portion, the large-diameter portion being composed of a guide portion and an extension portion, wherein the guide portion guides the outer diameter of the plunger tube and has a small gap with the outer diameter of the plunger tube, the gap between the extension portion and the outer diameter of the plunger tube is larger than the gap between the guide portion and the outer diameter of the plunger tube, and the extension portion defines a solder retention area as a joint with the plunger tube; a stop is provided between the stepped portion and the guide portion to restrict the plunger from moving in the opposite direction of the axial direction.

[0011] Alternatively, in the sliding switching valve, the stop member can be configured as a stop ring having an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the plunger tube and an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the sliding portion of the plunger, the stop ring being clamped between the other side of the plunger tube in the axial direction and the stepped portion.

[0012] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, the stop member can be configured as an annular portion formed by bending the plunger tube radially inward in another direction from the axial direction, with an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the sliding portion of the plunger, and the annular portion abutting against the stepped portion.

[0013] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, the plunger tube may also have a throttling section via the annular portion. This throttling section has an outer diameter that is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the small diameter portion of the valve body, and is narrowed in the opposite direction in the axial direction, and is guided by the inner diameter of the small diameter portion.

[0014] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, the stop member may be provided with a groove or multiple protrusions that communicate with the inner circumferential side of the abutment surface of the plunger.

[0015] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, the extension may have a flange portion formed by bending radially outward on one side of the axial direction.

[0016] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, a radially outwardly protruding and generally cylindrical protrusion may be provided on the peripheral wall of the valve body. At least one of the connector tubes has a base and a mounting portion. The mounting portion has an inner diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the base and approximately the same as the outer diameter of the protrusion. The inner peripheral surface of the mounting portion is guided by the outer peripheral surface of the protrusion to fix the connector tube to the valve body.

[0017] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, at least one connector pipe may also have an inclined portion formed between the base and the mounting portion, with the filter held between the inclined portion and the protruding end of the protrusion.

[0018] In addition, in the sliding switching valve, the protruding end of the protrusion may be provided with a bent portion formed by bending radially inward toward the protrusion.

[0019] Additionally, in the sliding switching valve, the inner diameter of the protruding end having the bend in the protrusion may be greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the base in the at least one connector tube.

[0020] In addition, the sliding switching valve can be configured as a direct-acting electromagnetic sliding valve.

[0021] Alternatively, a refrigeration cycle system may be configured to include a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a pilot-operated four-way switching valve, wherein the sliding switching valve is used as the pilot valve of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve.

[0022] Invention Effects

[0023] According to the present invention, a sliding switching valve is provided that can smoothly and reliably align the valve body and the plunger tube as separate components and firmly engage their joints, thereby suppressing leakage of working fluid from the joints to the outside. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This refers to the refrigeration cycle system of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view showing the coil of the sliding switching valve of the first embodiment of the present invention in the unenergized state.

[0027] Figures 4A to 4C yes Figure 3 A partial enlarged view of the sliding switching valve. Figure 4A This is an overall view of the pilot valve body. Figure 4B express Figure 3 An enlarged view of the installation structure of the pilot valve body and the plunger tube. Figure 4C express Figure 3 Enlarged view of the protrusion and the installation structure of the D-joint pipe.

[0028] Figure 5 This refers to the pilot valve body in Modification 1 of the first embodiment. Figure 5 (a) represents an overall view of the pilot valve body in one of the modifications of Example 1. Figure 5 (b) indicates that by Figure 5 Enlarged view of the area enclosed by the solid line Vb in (a). Figure 5 (c) represents the overall view of the pilot valve body in variation 1, part 2. Figure 5 (d) indicates that by Figure 5 Enlarged view of the area enclosed by the solid line Vd in (c). Figure 5 (e) represents the overall view of the pilot valve body in variation 1, specifically in its third form. Figure 5 (f) indicates that by Figure 5 Enlarged view of the area enclosed by the solid line Vf of (e).

[0029] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the plunger tube in Variation 2 of the first embodiment. Figure 6 (a) represents the overall view of the plunger tube. Figure 6 (b) indicates that by Figure 6 Enlarged view of the area enclosed by the solid line VIb in (a).

[0030] Figure 7 This refers to the pilot valve body in Modification 3 of the first embodiment. Figure 7 (a) shows an overall view of the pilot valve body in one of the variations of Example 3. Figure 7 (b) indicates from Figure 7 The view is viewed in the direction of arrow VIIb in (a). Figure 7 (c) represents the pilot valve body in variation 3, part 2, and Figure 7 (b) corresponds to the view. Figure 7 (d) represents the pilot valve body in variation 3, specifically the one with respect to the other. Figure 7 (b) corresponds to the view.

[0031] Figure 8 It means Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the energized coil of the sliding switching valve shown.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing the coil of the sliding switching valve in the second embodiment in the non-energized state.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A partial enlarged view of the sliding switching valve. Figure 10 (a) represents the overall view of the pilot valve body. Figure 10 (b) indicates Figure 9 An enlarged view of the installation structure of the pilot valve body and the plunger tube. Figure 10 (c) represents Figure 9 Enlarged view of the protrusion and the installation structure of the D-joint pipe.

[0034] Figure 11 This refers to the stop ring in a variation of the second embodiment. Figure 11 (a) represents the overall view of the stop ring. Figure 11 (b) indicates from Figure 11 The arrow XIb in (a) is the direction of the view being observed.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view showing the coil of the sliding switching valve in the third embodiment in the non-energized state.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A partial enlarged view of the sliding switching valve. Figure 13 (a) indicates Figure 12 An enlarged view of the installation structure of the pilot valve body and the plunger tube. Figure 13 (b) represents the case of variation 1 of the third embodiment. Figure 13 The enlarged view corresponding to (a).

[0037] Figure 14 This refers to the plunger tube in Modification 2 of the third embodiment. Figure 14 (a) represents the overall view of the plunger tube. Figure 14 (b) indicates from Figure 14 The direction of the arrow XIVb observed in (a) is the view. Detailed Implementation

[0038] Reference Figures 1 to 14 The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0039] <Regarding terminology>

[0040] In this specification and description of the scope of protection, "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" indicate the location of the object. Figures 3-6 , Figure 7 of (a), Figures 8-10 , Figure 11 of (a), Figures 12-13 , Figure 14 The direction shown in (a). In this specification and the description of the scope of protection, "one side of the axial direction" and "the other side of the axial direction" respectively indicate Figures 3-6 , Figure 7 of (a), Figures 8-10 , Figure 11 of (a), Figures 12-13 , Figure 14 The “right side of the central axis direction” and the “left side of the central axis direction” are shown in (a).

[0041] <About pilot-operated four-way switching valve>

[0042] use Figure 1 The pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 of the present invention will be described. The pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 mainly consists of a valve body 210, a pair of pistons 220A and 220B, a connecting plate 230, a switching valve seat 240, and a valve core 250. The various structures of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 will be described sequentially below. Here, the longitudinal axis X in the figure is the central axis of the valve body 210.

[0043] The valve body 210 consists of a cylindrical portion 211 and a pair of caps 212A and 212B. Both ends of the cylindrical portion 211 are blocked by the caps 212A and 212B, respectively. Further details will be described later. Pressure inlet pipes 3L and 3R are connected to the caps 212A and 212B, respectively, allowing fluid communication between the sliding switching valve 100 and the first working chamber 2A and second working chamber 2B of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200.

[0044] A pair of pistons 220A and 220B each have leaf springs 221A and 221B, which are housed within the valve housing 210 and arranged opposite to each other. These pistons 220A and 220B can reciprocate while pressing the leaf springs 221A and 221B against the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 211. Thus, the interior of the valve housing 210 is divided by the pistons 220A and 220B into a first working chamber 2A, a second working chamber 2B, and a high-pressure chamber 2C sandwiched between the first working chamber 2A and the second working chamber 2B.

[0045] The connecting plate 230 is made of a metal plate extending along the axis X in the length direction, and has a fitting hole 231 formed in the center and a pair of through holes 232A and 232B formed between the two ends and the center. A pair of pistons 220A and 220B are respectively installed at the two ends of the connecting plate 230, and the valve core 250 is held in the fitting hole 231 in the center.

[0046] A switching valve seat 240 is disposed on the lower center side inside the cylindrical portion 211. The switching valve seat 240 has three through holes 241E, 241S, and 241C arranged in a straight line along its length axis X. An E-connector pipe 1E, an S-connector pipe 1S, and a C-connector pipe 1C are respectively installed through the cylindrical portion 211 via the through holes 241E, 241S, and 241C. Additionally, a D-connector pipe 1D, opening into the cylindrical portion 211, is installed on the upper center side of the cylindrical portion 211 opposite to the switching valve seat 240.

[0047] The valve core 250, along the axis X of the movement direction (i.e., the length direction), includes a bowl-shaped recess 251, a pair of sliding portions 252A and 252B separated from the bowl-shaped recess 251, and pins 253 mounted near the opening of the bowl-shaped recess 251 and fixed to the side walls of the bowl-shaped recess 251. The bowl-shaped recess 251 is shaped like an inverted bowl-shaped container, forming a space between itself and the switching valve seat 240. The pair of sliding portions 252A and 252B slide while their lower surfaces abut against the switching valve seat 240.

[0048] <Regarding the operation of a pilot-operated four-way switching valve>

[0049] In the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, the suction pressure and discharge pressure of the compressor 300 are selectively introduced into the first working chamber 2A via the pressure inlet pipe 3L or into the second working chamber 2B via the pressure inlet pipe 3R (see reference). Figure 2 As a result, a pair of pistons 220A and 220B reciprocate along the axis X in the length direction, switching the position of the valve core 250 relative to the valve seat 240.

[0050] Specifically, when the pair of pistons 220A and 220B are moved to the left position along the axis X in the longitudinal direction, the S-connector pipe 1S and the E-connector pipe 1E are connected via the cup-shaped recess 251 through the valve core 250 and the switching valve seat 240, and the D-connector pipe 1D and the C-connector pipe 1C are connected via the high-pressure chamber 2C and the through hole 232B. On the other hand, when the pair of pistons 220A and 220B are moved to the right position along the axis X in the longitudinal direction, the S-connector pipe 1S and the C-connector pipe 1C are connected via the cup-shaped recess 251 through the valve core 250 and the switching valve seat 240, and the D-connector pipe 1D and the E-connector pipe 1E are connected via the high-pressure chamber 2C and the through hole 232A.

[0051] <About Refrigeration Cycle System>

[0052] use Figure 2 The refrigeration cycle system 1 is described below. The refrigeration cycle system 1 mainly consists of a sliding switching valve 100, a pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, a compressor 300, an outdoor heat exchanger 400, an indoor heat exchanger 500, and a throttling device (expansion valve) 600.

[0053] In the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, the S-connector pipe 1S is connected to the suction port of the compressor 300, and the D-connector pipe 1D is connected to the discharge port of the compressor 300. Additionally, the C-connector pipe 1C is connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 400, and the E-connector pipe 1E is connected to the indoor heat exchanger 500. Furthermore, the outdoor heat exchanger 400 and the indoor heat exchanger 500 are interconnected via a throttling device 600. Thus, the refrigeration cycle system 1 is constructed through a fluid path formed by the outdoor heat exchanger 400, the throttling device 600, the indoor heat exchanger 500, and the E-connector pipe 1E starting from the C-connector pipe 1C, and a fluid path formed by the compressor 300 and the D-connector pipe 1D starting from the S-connector pipe 1S. Furthermore, the refrigerant in the refrigeration cycle system 1 contains a trace amount of refrigerant oil to protect the compressor 300 and other equipment.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the sliding switching valve 100 is connected to the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the sliding switching valve 100 moves the sliding valve core 30 via the electromagnetic coil unit 70, thereby selectively introducing the suction pressure and discharge pressure of the compressor 300 into the first working chamber 2A via the pressure inlet pipe 3L or into the second working chamber 2B via the pressure inlet pipe 3R. Thus, in the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, the fluid path of the refrigeration cycle system 1 is switched by connecting the S-connector pipe 1S (connected to the suction port of the compressor 300) and the D-connector pipe 1D (connected to the discharge port of the compressor 300) to either the C-connector pipe 1C (connected to the outdoor heat exchanger 400) or the E-connector pipe 1E (connected to the indoor heat exchanger 500). In this way, by using the sliding switching valve 100, which is a direct-acting electromagnetic sliding valve, as the pilot valve of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, smooth fluid path switching can be achieved even when the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 has a large diameter.

[0055] <Regarding the operation of the refrigeration cycle system>

[0056] First, during cooling operation (refer to...) Figure 2(Solid arrow) The sliding switching valve 100 de-energizes the coil, switching the destination of the S-connector pipe 1S connected to the suction port of the compressor 300 to the first chamber 2A via the pressure inlet pipe 3L of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200. Simultaneously, the destination of the D-connector pipe 1D connected to the discharge port of the compressor 300 is switched to the second chamber 2B via the pressure inlet pipe 3R of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200. As a result, by introducing the pressure difference between the first chamber 2A and the second chamber 2B, which are the suction and discharge pressures of the compressor 300, a pair of pistons 220A and 220B inside the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 move to the left position. Thus, the high-pressure refrigerant compressed by the compressor 300 flows from the D-connector pipe 1D through the high-pressure chamber 2C into the C-connector pipe 1C, flowing in the order of outdoor heat exchanger 400, throttling device 600, and indoor heat exchanger 500, and after flowing from the E-connector pipe 1E through the bowl-shaped recess 251 into the S-connector pipe 1S, it circulates back into the compressor 300. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger 400 functions as a condenser (condensing device), and the indoor heat exchanger 500 functions as an evaporator (evaporating device).

[0057] Next, during heating operation (refer to...) Figure 2 (The dashed arrow indicates that the sliding switching valve 100 energizes the coil, switching the destination of the S-connector pipe 1S connected to the suction port of the compressor 300 to the second chamber 2B via the pressure inlet pipe 3R of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200. Simultaneously, the destination of the D-connector pipe 1D connected to the discharge port of the compressor 300 is switched to the first chamber 2A via the pressure inlet pipe 3L of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200. As a result, by introducing the pressure difference between the first chamber 2A and the second chamber 2B, which are the suction and discharge pressures of the compressor 300, a pair of pistons 220A and 220B inside the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 move to the right position. Thus, the high-pressure refrigerant compressed by the compressor 300 flows from the D-connector pipe 1D through the high-pressure chamber 2C into the E-connector pipe 1E, flowing in the order of indoor heat exchanger 500, throttling device 600, and outdoor heat exchanger 400. After flowing from the C-connector pipe 1C through the bowl-shaped recess 251 into the S-connector pipe 1S, it circulates back into the compressor 300. At this time, during heating operation, the refrigerant circulates in the opposite direction to that during cooling operation. The indoor heat exchanger 500 functions as a condenser, and the outdoor heat exchanger 400 functions as an evaporator.

[0058] (First Implementation)

[0059] <About Sliding Switching Valves>

[0060] use Figure 3The sliding switching valve 100A according to the first embodiment will be described. The sliding switching valve 100A mainly consists of a plunger tube 10, a plunger 20, a sliding valve core 30, a pilot valve body (valve body) 40, a valve seat 50, a suction member 60, and an electromagnetic coil unit 70. Hereinafter, each structure of the sliding switching valve 100A will be described sequentially. In this figure, the central axis C is the central axis of the plunger tube 10, the plunger 20, and the pilot valve body 40. Furthermore, after describing the sliding switching valve 100A, the "mounting structure of the pilot valve body and the plunger tube" and the "mounting structure of the protrusion of the pilot valve body and the D-connector tube" will be described in detail.

[0061] The plunger tube 10 is formed from a thin sheet of stainless steel and has a cylindrical shape along the central axis C.

[0062] The plunger 20 is made of magnetic stainless steel and has a cylindrical enlarged diameter portion (sliding portion) 22 extending to the right of the central axis C and a protrusion 21 extending from the enlarged diameter portion 22 to the left of the central axis C with an outer diameter smaller than that of the enlarged diameter portion 22. A shoulder 23 is formed at the junction of the protrusion 21 and the enlarged diameter portion 22. Here, the outer diameter of the enlarged diameter portion 22 is set to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the plunger tube 10, so that the plunger 20 can be guided to slide in the direction of the central axis C within the plunger tube 10. In addition, the plunger 20 has connecting paths 24A and 24B that run through each other along the central axis C inside the protrusion 21 and the enlarged diameter portion 22. The inner diameter of the connecting path 24B is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the connecting path 24A, and a helical spring support portion 24C is formed between the connecting paths 24A and 24B.

[0063] Furthermore, the protrusion 21 of the plunger 20 has a valve spring receiving hole 25 and a valve core guide hole 26 with an opening at the bottom, coaxially in a direction perpendicular to the central axis C (vertical direction). The inner diameter of the valve core guide hole 26 is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the valve spring receiving hole 25.

[0064] The sliding valve core 30 is made of resin such as PTFE and is housed in the valve core guide hole 26 of the plunger 20 in a manner that allows it to slide in the vertical direction. It applies a predetermined load to the upper surface of the valve seat 50 via the valve spring 31 housed in the valve spring receiving hole 25. The sliding valve core 30 has a concave shape with a downward opening and a recessed portion 30A that forms a space with the valve seat 50. Details will be described later. The sliding valve core 30 is connected to the plunger 20 and moves along the central axis C inside the pilot valve body 40, thereby enabling switching between the communication states with multiple connector pipes 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1S.

[0065] The pilot valve body 40 is formed by stamping (deep drawing) a thin stainless steel sheet and has a bottomed cylindrical shape with an open end on the right side in the direction of the central axis C. This allows for the lightweight and miniaturization of the sliding switching valve 100A. A D-connector pipe 1D is mounted on the upper peripheral wall of the pilot valve body 40. Furthermore, a valve seat mounting hole 40A is formed on the lower peripheral wall of the pilot valve body 40, through which a valve seat 50 is mounted. The pilot valve body 40 is fixed to the open end on the left side of the plunger pipe 10.

[0066] The valve seat 50 is made of stainless steel or brass and has three through holes 51E, 51S and 51C in sequence along the central axis C. E connector pipe 1E, S connector pipe 1S and C connector pipe 1C are installed in each through hole 51E, 51S and 51C respectively.

[0067] The suction member 60 is made of magnetic stainless steel and is fixed to the plunger tube 10 by welding after being inserted into the opening on the right side of the plunger tube 10. In order to apply force to the plunger 20 along the central axis C in a direction away from the suction member 60, a helical spring 61 is clamped between the helical spring support 24C and the left end of the suction member 60.

[0068] The electromagnetic coil unit 70 includes: a molded coil portion 71 disposed on the outer periphery of the plunger tube 10 for selectively energizing the plunger 20 and the attractor 60; a housing 72 consisting of a magnetic body covering and housed inside the molded coil portion 71; and a wire 73 electrically connecting the molded coil portion 71 to an external drive control unit (not shown). The electromagnetic coil unit 70 is fixed to the attractor 60 by screwing a small screw 74 into the internal threaded hole 60A of the attractor 60 via a mounting hole 72A in the housing 72.

[0069] <Regarding the installation structure of the pilot valve body and plunger tube>

[0070] Here, use Figure 4A as well as Figure 4B The specific installation structure of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 is described.

[0071] First, such as Figure 4A As shown, the pilot valve body 40 includes: a small-diameter portion 41 that houses the sliding valve core 30; a large-diameter portion 42 that has an inner diameter larger than that of the small-diameter portion 41 and fixes the plunger tube 10; and a stepped portion 43 formed between the small-diameter portion 41 and the large-diameter portion 42. Furthermore, the large-diameter portion 42 includes: a guide portion 42A that guides the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10; an extension portion 42B whose inner diameter is larger than that of the guide portion 42A; and a flange portion 42C formed by bending radially outward at the end of the extension portion 42B in the direction of the central axis C. Moreover, the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A is set to be approximately the same as the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10.

[0072] Next, in order to install the pilot valve body 40 onto the plunger tube 10, the relative distance between the pilot valve body 40 and the central axis C of the plunger tube 10 is made close. Here, as... Figure 4B As shown, the difference between the inner diameter of the extension 42B of the pilot valve body 40 and the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10 is set to be relatively small. Therefore, by bending the flange 42C of the pilot valve body 40 radially outward, the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10 can be smoothly inserted into the extension 42B. This allows for autonomous alignment of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 towards the central axis C. Then, while guiding the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10, it is pressed into the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A of the pilot valve body 40, and the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10 abuts against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40. This allows for further autonomous alignment of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 towards the central axis C, thus eliminating previous problems (eccentricity at the joint) and enabling smooth and reliable alignment of the valve body and the plunger tube, which are separate components. In addition, the length of the guide section 42A in the direction of the central axis C is set to a predetermined value (e.g., the wall thickness of the plunger tube 10) or more, so that the tilting of the central axis between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 after being pressed in can be suppressed.

[0073] Furthermore, the pilot valve body 40 is joined to the plunger tube 10 by brazing R. Specifically, since the gap between the extension 42B of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 is set relatively small, the solder can penetrate and diffuse to the entire solder retention area (joint portion) RA defined by the extension 42B and the plunger tube 10 through capillary action along the central axis C, thereby firmly joining the two components. At this time, a brazing lead F is formed at the open right end of the solder retention area RA, thus more reliably suppressing leakage of working fluid from this open right end to the outside.

[0074] In the first embodiment, such as Figure 4BAs shown, the stepped portion (stop) 43 of the pilot valve body 40 abuts against the shoulder 23 of the plunger 20, functioning as a stop and thereby restricting the movement of the plunger 20 in the direction of the central axis C. Therefore, whenever the plunger 20 abuts against the stepped portion 43, a shearing force is directly applied via the stepped portion 43 in the direction that the joint is to be peeled off in the solder retention area RA. However, since the solder retention area RA has a relatively large joint area, that is, it has a joint strength that can resist the shearing force that is to be peeled off the joint, the previous problem (insufficient joint strength) can be eliminated, and the joint between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 can be firmly joined. In addition, by setting the length of the extension 42B in the direction of the central axis C to a predetermined value (for example, more than the wall thickness of the plunger tube 10, more preferably more than 20% of the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10, that is, a length greater than the length of the guide portion 42A in the direction of the central axis C), the desired joint area can be reliably ensured. Furthermore, since the plunger tube 10 is firmly pressed into the pilot valve body 40, the relative positions of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 will not shift during brazing.

[0075] In the first embodiment, the front end portion 10A of the plunger tube 10 abuts against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40. However, this is not a limitation; for example, the front end portion 10A of the plunger tube 10 may not abut against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40. Even when the front end portion 10A is not abutted against the stepped portion 43, the size of the solder retention area RA defined by the extension 42B and the plunger tube 10 does not change. Therefore, the joint can be firmly joined, just as when the front end portion 10A abuts against the stepped portion 43. However, when the front end portion 10A of the plunger tube 10 abuts against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40, it is easier to manage the amount of movement in the direction of the central axis C of the plunger 20, which is therefore preferable.

[0076] In the first embodiment, the pilot valve body 40 is autonomously aligned with the plunger tube 10 via the guide portion 42A of the pilot valve body 40, and a solder retention area RA with strong bonding strength is defined by the extension portion 42B of the pilot valve body 40. Therefore, in the first embodiment, previous problems (eccentricity of the joint and insufficient strength of the joint) can be eliminated, and leakage of working fluid from the joint to the outside can be suppressed.

[0077] (Modification 1 of the first embodiment)

[0078] Here, use Figure 5The pilot valve bodies 40-1, 40-2, and 40-3 in Variation 1 of the first embodiment will be described. The pilot valve bodies 40-1, 40-2, and 40-3 in Variation 1 of the first embodiment differ from the pilot valve body 40 in the following ways: In Variation 1, the guide portion 42A is provided with an annular protrusion B protruding towards the inner diameter side, multiple protrusions P protruding towards the inner diameter side, and multiple linear protrusions L protruding towards the inner diameter side and extending along the central axis C. However, the other basic structures are the same as in the first embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0079] In the first embodiment, the pilot valve body 40 is formed by deep drawing. Therefore, special dimensional management is required so that the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A is smaller than the inner diameter of the extension portion 42B and is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10. As a result, the processing cost may increase.

[0080] In contrast, in the pilot valve bodies 40-1, 40-2, and 40-3 of the first embodiment, the inner diameters of the guide portion 42A and the extension portion 42B are set to be the same. After deep drawing, the guide portion 42A is provided with an annular protrusion B protruding towards the inner diameter side, multiple protrusions P protruding towards the inner diameter side, and multiple linear protrusions L protruding towards the inner diameter side and extending along the central axis C by riveting or the like. At this time, the inner diameters of the imaginary circle formed by the annular protrusion B, the multiple protrusions P, and the imaginary circle formed by the linear protrusions L relative to the central axis C are set to have a small gap with the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10, thus suppressing processing costs. Furthermore, when the annular protrusion B is provided, as Figure 5 As shown in (a) to (b), at least two protrusions are separately arranged along the central axis C. Furthermore, when multiple protrusions P are provided, as... Figure 5 As shown in (c) to (d), at least three are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction, and at least two are separately arranged in the direction of the central axis C. Furthermore, when multiple linear protrusions L are provided, as... Figure 5 As shown in (e) to (f), at least three are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction, thereby enabling the pilot valve bodies 40-1, 40-2, and 40-3 to be autonomously aligned with the piston tube 10.

[0081] Furthermore, particularly in the modified example 1 of the first embodiment, in the case where the pilot valve bodies 40-2 and 40-3 have a plurality of protrusions P protruding towards the inner diameter side and a plurality of linear protrusions L protruding towards the inner diameter side and extending along the central axis C (see reference) Figure 5(c)~(f)) When the pilot valve bodies 40-2 and 40-3 are joined to the plunger tube 10 by brazing R, due to the capillary phenomenon along the central axis C, the solder passes through the extension 42B and penetrates and diffuses into the interior of the guide 42A. Therefore, the solder retention area (joint part) RA can be expanded in the direction of the central axis C, so that the two parts are joined more firmly.

[0082] (Modification 2 of the first embodiment)

[0083] Next, use Figure 6 The plunger tube 10-1 of the second variation of the first embodiment will be described. As previously explained, in the first variation of the first embodiment, a plurality of protrusions protruding towards the inner diameter are provided in the guide portion 42A. In contrast, in the second variation of the first embodiment, a plurality of protrusions P protruding towards the outer diameter are provided in the plunger tube 10-1. Furthermore, the basic structure, such as setting the inner diameters of the guide portion 42A and the extension portion 42B to be the same, is the same as that of the first variation of the first embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to refer to the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0084] In the second variation of the first embodiment, the plunger tube 10-1, when engaged with the pilot valve body 40, has a plurality of protrusions P protruding outwards at a position opposite to the guide portion 42A. Furthermore, while the plunger tube 10-1 in the second variation of the first embodiment has a plurality of protrusions P protruding outwards, it is not limited to this; for example, it may also be provided with the same protrusions P as in the first embodiment (see the second variation of the first embodiment). Figure 5 Similarly, an annular protrusion B protruding outwards and multiple linear protrusions L extending outwards along the central axis C are also provided. In this case, the outer diameters of the imaginary circles formed by the annular protrusions B, the multiple protrusions P, and the linear protrusions L relative to the central axis C are set such that the gap between them and the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A is small, thus reducing processing costs. Furthermore, when multiple protrusions P are provided, such as... Figure 6 As shown in (a) to (b), at least three are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction, and at least two are separately arranged in the direction of the central axis C. In addition, when annular protrusions B are provided, at least two are separately arranged in the direction of the central axis C. Furthermore, when multiple linear protrusions L are provided, at least three are evenly arranged in the circumferential direction. This allows for independent alignment of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10-1.

[0085] Furthermore, particularly in Variation 2 of the first embodiment, a plurality of protrusions P protruding outwards are provided in the plunger tube 10-1 (see reference). Figure 6In the case of (a) to (b) and multiple linear protrusions L extending along the central axis C that protrude outwards to the outer diameter side, when the pilot valve body 40 is joined to the plunger tube 10-1 by brazing R, the solder permeates and diffuses into the interior of the guide portion 42A through the capillary phenomenon along the central axis C, thus enabling the solder retention area (joint portion) RA to expand in the direction of the central axis C, making the two parts more firmly joined.

[0086] (Modification 3 of the first embodiment)

[0087] Here, use Figure 7 The pilot valve bodies 40-4, 40-5, and 40-6 in Variation 3 of the first embodiment will be described. The pilot valve bodies 40-4, 40-5, and 40-6 in Variation 3 of the first embodiment differ from the pilot valve body 40 in the following ways: multiple grooves G extending radially from the central axis C, a V-shaped groove G opening in the direction of the central axis C, and multiple protrusions P are provided in the stepped portion 43. Other basic structures are the same as in the first embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0088] In the pilot valve body 40 of the first embodiment, if there is a predetermined amount or more of refrigerant oil between the plunger 20 and the step portion 43 when the plunger 20 abuts against the step portion 43, the plunger 20 and the step portion 43 may adhere to each other.

[0089] In contrast, in the pilot valve bodies 40-4, 40-5, and 40-6 of the first embodiment, the stepped portion 43 is provided with a plurality of radially extending grooves G, a plurality of V-shaped grooves G opening in the direction of the central axis C, and a plurality of protrusions P. Therefore, when the plunger 20 abuts against the stepped portion 43, the refrigerant oil between the plunger 20 and the stepped portion 43 is actively discharged towards the central axis C through the plurality of grooves G communicating with the inner circumferential side, the plurality of V-shaped grooves G, and the protrusion gaps D formed between the plurality of protrusions P. As a result, the adhesion between the plunger 20 and the stepped portion 43 can be suppressed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a plurality of radially extending grooves G are provided on the abutment surface, but as long as they communicate with the inner circumferential side of the abutment surface, the arrangement can be arbitrary. Therefore, for example, a plurality of grooves parallel to the abutment surface can be provided, or a combination of radially extending grooves G, V-shaped grooves G, a plurality of protrusions P, and parallel grooves can be provided.

[0090] <Regarding the mounting structure of the protruding part of the pilot valve body and the D-connector pipe>

[0091] like Figure 3As shown, the pilot valve body 40 is formed by stamping (deep drawing) a thin stainless steel sheet, thus its rigidity is reduced compared to a pilot valve body formed by machining. Here, the pilot valve body 40 is installed with the E-connector pipe 1E, S-connector pipe 1S, and C-connector pipe 1C via the highly rigid valve seat 50, so the joint strength is not an issue. On the other hand, the installation of the pilot valve body 40 with the D-connector pipe 1D is performed directly without any other components. Therefore, the guide length of the connection portion (equal to the wall thickness of the thin sheet) when connecting the D-connector pipe 1D to the pilot valve body 40 is short, making the D-connector pipe 1D prone to tilting. If brazing is performed with the D-connector pipe 1D tilted relative to the upper peripheral wall of the pilot valve body 40, the joint will be uneven along the circumference, potentially leading to a localized reduction in joint strength.

[0092] To solve this problem, such as Figure 4C As shown, in the first embodiment, the pilot valve body 40 has a generally cylindrical protrusion 44 that protrudes radially (in a direction perpendicular to the central axis C) outward on the upper side peripheral wall of the pilot valve body 40, and the D connector pipe 1D is installed through this protrusion 44.

[0093] Specifically, the D-connector tube 1D has: a base 1DA; a mounting portion 1DB having an inner diameter larger than that of the base 1DA; and an inclined portion 1DC formed between the base 1DA and the mounting portion 1DB. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the mounting portion 1DB is set to be approximately the same as the outer diameter of the protrusion 44.

[0094] Here, when installing the D-connector tube 1D on the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40, firstly, after the filter S is housed in the mounting portion 1DB and the inclined portion 1DC, the inner circumferential surface of the mounting portion 1DB is guided by the outer circumferential surface of the protrusion 44, thereby pressing the protrusion 44 into the mounting portion 1DB in a direction perpendicular to the central axis C. Then, with the front end of the mounting portion 1DB abutting against the upper side circumferential wall of the pilot valve body 40, the mounting portion 1DB and the protrusion 44 are brazed to fix the D-connector tube 1D to the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40. In this way, the D-connector tube 1D is guided by the outer circumferential surface of the protrusion 44, thereby autonomously aligning the radial axis of the protrusion 44 and the D-connector tube 1D. Therefore, even if the pilot valve body 40 is formed from a thin sheet, the D-connector tube 1D can be installed without tilting, and thus, a strong joint strength can be achieved through uniform circumferential brazing. In addition, while installing the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40 and the D connector tube 1D, the filter S is clamped between the protruding end 44A of the protrusion 44 and the inclined part 1DC of the D connector tube 1D. Therefore, the filter S can be easily fixed in the D connector tube 1D without the need for a special fixing mechanism.

[0095] In the first embodiment, after pressing the D-connector tube 1D into the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40, brazing is performed to fix the two components. However, this is not the only option. For example, the D-connector tube 1D can be fitted into the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40. Alternatively, after fitting, the two components can be fixed by riveting in the order of temporary fixing of the D-connector tube 1D and brazing.

[0096] <Regarding the operation of the sliding switching valve>

[0097] use Figure 3 as well as Figure 8 The operation of the sliding switching valve 100A will be explained. Here, the protrusion 44 of the pilot valve body 40, and the through holes 51E, 51S, and 51C in the valve seat 50 function as the first port 44, the second port 51E, the third port 51S, and the fourth port 51C in the fluid path, respectively.

[0098] The sliding valve core 30 reciprocates along the central axis C via the plunger 20, thereby switching the position of the recess 30A of the sliding valve core 30 relative to the valve seat 50. As a result, two of the three adjacent ports (second port 51E, third port 51S, and fourth port 51C) in the valve seat 50 are selectively connected.

[0099] First, such as Figure 3 As shown, when the sliding switching valve 100A is in the non-energized state, the plunger 20, under the force of the helical spring 61, has its shoulder 23 abut against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40. Meanwhile, the sliding valve core 30 moves to the left position relative to the valve seat 50. At this time, the second port 51E and the third port 51S are connected via the recess 30A of the sliding valve core 30, allowing fluid to flow from the E connector pipe 1E to the S connector pipe 1S. Furthermore, the first port 44 is connected to the fourth port 51C, allowing fluid to flow from the D connector pipe 1D to the C connector pipe 1C.

[0100] Next, as Figure 8 As shown, when the sliding switching valve 100A is in the coil-energized state, the right end of the plunger 20 is attracted by the magnetic force of the suction member 60 and comes into contact with the suction member 60. On the other hand, the sliding valve core 30 moves to the right position relative to the valve seat 50. At this time, the fourth port 51C and the third port 51S are connected through the recess 30A of the sliding valve core 30, and fluid flows from the C connector pipe 1C to the S connector pipe 1S. The first port 44 is connected to the second port 51E, and fluid flows from the D connector pipe 1D to the E connector pipe 1E.

[0101] Thus, the sliding switching valve 100A in the first embodiment is a direct-acting electromagnetic sliding valve, which can improve the responsiveness of the external drive control unit and quickly switch the flow path.

[0102] As described above, when the sliding switching valve 100A is de-energized, fluid flows from connector 1E to connector 1S and from connector 1D to connector 1C, causing the pair of pistons 220A and 220B in the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 to move to the right. Therefore, the refrigeration cycle system 1 switches to a refrigeration operation state where the refrigerant flows in the order of compressor 300, outdoor heat exchanger 400, throttling device 600, and indoor heat exchanger 500. Conversely, when the sliding switching valve 100A is energized, fluid flows from connector 1C to connector 1S and from connector 1D to connector 1E, causing the pair of pistons 220A and 220B in the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200 to move to the left. Therefore, the refrigeration cycle system 1 switches to a heating operation state where the refrigerant flows in the order of compressor 300, indoor heat exchanger 500, throttling device 600, and outdoor heat exchanger 400.

[0103] (Second Implementation)

[0104] <About Sliding Switching Valves>

[0105] use Figure 9 The sliding switching valve 100B according to the second embodiment will be described. The main differences between the sliding switching valve 100B of the second embodiment and the sliding switching valve 100A of the first embodiment are the plunger 20', the valve spring 31' which serves as the force-applying unit for the sliding valve core 30, the stop ring 11' which restricts the movement of the plunger 20' in the direction of the central axis C, and the protrusion 44' of the pilot valve body 40. Other basic structures are largely the same as those of the first embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted. On the other hand, different parts are described using single quotes (').

[0106] The sliding switching valve 100B of the second embodiment is mainly composed of a plunger tube 10, a plunger 20', a sliding valve core 30, a pilot valve body 40, a valve seat 50, a suction element 60, and an electromagnetic coil unit 70.

[0107] The plunger 20' is made of magnetic stainless steel and has connecting paths 24A and 24B and a recess 24D' that are interconnected along the central axis C. The inner diameter of the connecting path 24B is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the connecting path 24A, and a helical spring support 24C is formed between the connecting paths 24A and 24B. In addition, the plunger 20' has a cylindrical portion (sliding portion) 21' extending in the direction of the central axis C, a front end face 22' facing the left side in the direction of the central axis C, and an opening edge 23' connected to the front end face 22'. Here, the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 21' is set to be slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the plunger tube 10, so that the plunger 20' can be guided to slide in the direction of the central axis C within the plunger tube 10.

[0108] Furthermore, a connecting rod 25' is fixed to the plunger 20'. Specifically, the connecting rod 25' is fixed by riveting the opening edge 23' at one end of the recess 24D' of the plunger 20'. At one end of the connecting rod 25', a valve spring 31' made of metal is connected by a connecting member 26' such as a rivet. At the other end of the connecting rod 25', an opening 25A' is formed to accommodate the sliding valve core 30 in a slidable manner. The sliding valve core 30 applies a predetermined load to the upper surface of the valve seat 50 through the other end of the valve spring 31', which serves as a force-applying unit.

[0109] <Regarding the installation structure of the pilot valve body and plunger tube>

[0110] Here, use Figure 10 (a) and Figure 10 (b) will describe the specific mounting structure of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 via the annular stop ring 11' in the second embodiment. The stop ring 11' has an outer diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10 and an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 21' of the plunger 20'.

[0111] First, to install the pilot valve body 40 onto the plunger tube 10, the stop ring 11' and the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10 are inserted into the extension 42B via the flange 42C of the pilot valve body 40. Then, the relative distance between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10 in the direction of the central axis C is brought closer together. Next, while guiding the outer diameters of the stop ring 11' and the plunger tube 10, they are pressed into the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A of the pilot valve body 40, until finally the stop ring 11' is clamped between the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10 and the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40.

[0112] In the second embodiment, a stop ring 11' is used instead of the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40 in the first embodiment as a stop to restrict the movement of the plunger 20 in the direction of the central axis C. Therefore, in the second embodiment, in order to allow the stop ring (stop) 11' to abut against the front end face 22' of the plunger 20, the inner diameter of the stop ring 11' is set to be smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion 21' of the plunger 20'. That is, in the second embodiment, the stepped portion 43 only needs to hold the stop ring 11', thus, compared to the first embodiment, the difference in the inner diameter of the stepped portion 43 can be made extremely small (especially referring to...). Figure 4B and Figure 10 (b) Therefore, when the pilot valve body 40 is formed by stamping (deep drawing), the sharp bending of the stepped portion 43 can be suppressed, thus reducing the residual processing stress of the stepped portion 43. As a result, leakage of working fluid to the outside caused by stress corrosion cracking can be prevented.

[0113] Thus, compared to the sliding switching valve 100A of the first embodiment, the sliding switching valve 100B of the second embodiment allows for the provision of space between the cylindrical portion (sliding portion) 21' of the plunger 20' and the pilot valve body 40. Therefore, in the sliding switching valve 100B of the second embodiment, a stop ring 11' can be used instead of the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40 in the first embodiment to restrict the movement of the plunger 20 in the direction of the central axis C. Consequently, the second embodiment achieves the same effect as the first embodiment, namely, eliminating previous problems (eccentricity of the joint and insufficient strength of the joint). Furthermore, in addition to this effect, the second embodiment also reduces residual processing stress in the stepped portion 43, preventing leakage of working fluid to the outside due to stress corrosion cracking. Moreover, in this embodiment, the stop ring 11' is pressed into the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A of the pilot valve body 40, but this is not limited to this; a fitting is also possible.

[0114] (A variation of the second embodiment)

[0115] Here, use Figure 11 The stop ring 11' in the modified example of the second embodiment will be described. The stop ring 11' in this modified example of the second embodiment differs from the stop ring 11' in the second embodiment in that it has multiple grooves G extending radially from the central axis C on the contact surface with the plunger 20. Other basic structures are the same as in the second embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0116] Modification 3 of the first embodiment (see reference) Figure 7Similarly, as described in the previous section, when the plunger 20 abuts against the stop ring 11' in the second embodiment, if there is a predetermined amount or more of refrigeration oil between the plunger 20 and the stop ring 11', the plunger 20 and the stop ring 11' may adhere to each other.

[0117] In contrast, in the modified example of the second embodiment, the stop ring 11' has a plurality of radially extending grooves G on its contact surface with the plunger 20. Furthermore, while the stop ring 11' in the modified example of the second embodiment has a plurality of radially extending grooves G on its contact surface with the plunger 20, this is not a limitation; for example, it can also be used with the modified example 3 of the first embodiment (see...). Figure 7 Similarly, multiple V-shaped grooves G, multiple protrusions P, multiple parallel grooves G, and combinations thereof are provided in the direction of the central axis C. Thus, when the plunger 20 abuts against the stop ring 11', the refrigerant oil between the plunger 20 and the stop ring 11' is actively discharged towards the central axis C via the multiple grooves G communicating with the inner circumferential side, the multiple V-shaped grooves G, and the gaps D formed between the protrusions P. This suppresses the adhesion between the plunger 20 and the stop ring 11'.

[0118] <Regarding the mounting structure of the protruding part of the pilot valve body and the D-connector pipe>

[0119] In the sliding switching valve 100A of the first embodiment, a filter S is held between the protruding end 44A of the protrusion 44 and the inclined portion 1DC of the D-connector pipe 1D. The lower side of the filter S is in circular ground contact with the protruding end 44A of the protrusion 44. Therefore, large concentrated stress is generated locally in the filter S, which may cause deformation from the ideal mesh structure of the filter S.

[0120] For example, if the desired mesh structure of the filter S has locally large meshes, large foreign objects outside the desired area are allowed to circulate in the fluid path, potentially causing malfunctions in the various devices constituting the refrigeration cycle system 1. Conversely, if the desired mesh structure of the filter S has generally small meshes, the flow resistance is relatively high, thus reducing the responsiveness of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, which may prevent smooth switching between cooling and heating operations. Furthermore, because the width (thickness of the thin plate) of the protruding end 44A at the lower end of the filter S is small, if the filter S is radially offset due to the influence of fluid flow, the filter S may detach from the protruding end 44A, allowing foreign objects to flow into the pilot valve body 40.

[0121] To address this new problem, the protruding end 44A' of the protrusion 44' in the second embodiment has a bend formed by bending radially inward towards the protrusion 44'. Therefore, when the filter S is held between the protruding end 44A' of the protrusion 44 and the inclined portion 1DC of the D-connector pipe 1D, the lower side of the filter S contacts the protruding end 44A' of the protrusion 44' with the bend in an annular ground contact. Thus, large localized stress concentrations are not generated in the filter S, deformation of the desired mesh structure of the filter S can be suppressed, and causes of malfunctions in the various devices constituting the refrigeration cycle system 1, such as reduced responsiveness of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, can be suppressed. Furthermore, the bend increases the width of the protruding end 44A' at the lower end of the filter S, so even if the filter S shifts radially due to fluid flow, it will not detach from the protruding end 44A', thus preventing foreign matter from entering the pilot valve body 40.

[0122] In addition, the second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment in that after pressing the D connector tube 1D into the protrusion 44' of the pilot valve body 40, brazing is performed to fix the two components. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the D connector tube 1D can also be fitted into the protrusion 44' of the pilot valve body 40. Alternatively, after fitting, the two components can be fixed by riveting in the order of temporary fixing of the D connector tube 1D and brazing.

[0123] Furthermore, in the protrusion 44' of the pilot valve body 40, the inner diameter ΦA of the protruding end 44A' with the bend is set to be greater than or equal to the inner diameter ΦB of the base 1DA in the D connector pipe 1D. Therefore, during refrigeration operation or heating operation of the refrigeration cycle system 1, when fluid flows from the D connector pipe 1D to the C connector pipe 1C or the E connector pipe 1E, the increase in pressure loss of the protruding end 44A' with the bend can be suppressed.

[0124] Thus, the second embodiment achieves the same effect as the first embodiment, namely, a strong connection between the protrusion 44' and the D-connector tube 1D, and easy fixation of the filter S within the D-connector tube 1D. Furthermore, in addition to this effect, the second embodiment also suppresses deformation of the desired filter S's mesh structure and the intrusion of foreign matter due to radial displacement of the filter S, thereby suppressing causes of malfunctions in the components of the refrigeration cycle system 1, reduced responsiveness of the pilot-operated four-way switching valve 200, and increased pressure loss.

[0125] (Third Implementation)

[0126] <About Sliding Switching Valves>

[0127] use Figure 12 as well as Figure 13 (a) The sliding switching valve 100C of the third embodiment will be described. The plunger tube 10” in the third embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that the stop ring 11’ is integrated with the plunger tube 10, but the other basic structures are the same as those in the second embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same parts and repeated descriptions are omitted. On the other hand, different parts are marked with “” for description.

[0128] <Regarding the installation structure of the pilot valve body and plunger tube>

[0129] In the sliding switching valve 100B of the second embodiment, when the pilot valve body 40 is installed onto the plunger tube 10', the stop ring 11' is pressed into the pilot valve body 40 while supporting the stop ring 11' with the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10. At this time, the stop ring 11' is stably supported by the front end 10A of the plunger tube 10 making uniform contact along the circumference. However, if the stop ring 11' is not uniformly supported along the circumference, it may be pressed in at an angle relative to the central axis C. As a result, a jamming phenomenon may occur between the stop ring 11' and the guide portion 42A, and it may not be possible to press it to the desired depth. In addition, if the stop ring 11' jams at the right end of the guide portion 42A, the plunger tube 10 will also be tilted relative to the central axis C, just like the stop ring 11', and it may be impossible to align the pilot valve body 40 with the plunger tube 10'.

[0130] To eliminate this new problem, in the third embodiment, instead of the separate stop ring 11' and plunger tube 10 in the second embodiment, a plunger tube 10" that integrates the annular portion 10A" is adopted. Specifically, as follows Figure 13 As shown in (a), the plunger tube 10” of the third embodiment has an annular portion 10A” formed by bending the end in the direction of the central axis C radially inward. The inner diameter of the annular portion 10A” is set to be smaller than the outer diameter of the cylindrical portion (sliding portion) 21’ of the plunger 20’.

[0131] First, to install the pilot valve body 40 onto the plunger tube 10", the annular portion 10A” of the plunger tube 10” is inserted into the extension portion 42B via the flange portion 42C of the pilot valve body 40. Then, the relative distance between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10” in the direction of the central axis C is brought closer. Next, while guiding the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10”, it is pressed into the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A of the pilot valve body 40, with the annular portion 10A” of the plunger tube 10” abutting against the stepped portion 43 of the pilot valve body 40. In this way, since the annular portion 10A” and the plunger tube 10” are integral, the annular portion 10A” is not pressed in a tilted state relative to the central axis C, allowing for easy pressing to the desired depth and more reliable alignment of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10”.

[0132] Thus, in the third embodiment, instead of the separate stop ring 11' and plunger tube 10 in the second embodiment, a plunger tube 10" with the annular portion 10A" integrated is used. Therefore, the third embodiment achieves the same effect as the second embodiment, namely, eliminating previous problems (eccentricity of the joint and insufficient strength of the joint), and preventing leakage of working fluid to the outside due to stress corrosion cracking. Furthermore, in the third embodiment, in addition to this effect, it is easier to press to the desired depth, and the alignment of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10" with the shaft can be performed more reliably. Moreover, in the third embodiment, by integrating the annular portion 10A" with the plunger tube 10", the number of parts can be reduced, and the labor required for inventory management can be reduced.

[0133] In addition, such as Figure 13 As shown in (a), the annular portion (stop) 10A”, which is integrated with the plunger tube 10”, abuts against the front end face 22' of the plunger 20, functioning as a stop and thereby restricting the movement of the plunger 20 in the direction of the central axis C. Therefore, in the third embodiment, whenever the plunger 20 abuts against the annular portion 10A”, there will be no shear force in the direction that would peel off the joint from the solder retention area RA via the annular portion 10A”. Thus, in the third embodiment, compared with the second embodiment, the required joint strength of the joint can be set lower.

[0134] (Modification 1 of the third embodiment)

[0135] <About Sliding Switching Valves>

[0136] use Figure 13(b) The sliding switching valve 100C of the modified example 1 of the third embodiment will be described. The difference in the modified example 1 of the third embodiment is that the plunger tube 10”’ is further integrally provided with the throttling section 10B”’ on the plunger tube 10”’ of the third embodiment, but the other basic structures are the same as those of the third embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to mark the same parts and repeated descriptions are omitted, while different parts are marked with “”’’ for description.

[0137] <Regarding the installation structure of the pilot valve body and plunger tube>

[0138] In the sliding switching valve 100C of the third embodiment, in order to make the brazing connection between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10” more secure, it is considered to make the length of the solder retention area RA, that is, the length in the direction of the central axis C of the extension 42B of the pilot valve body 40, larger. Here, as Figure 12 As shown, the pilot valve body 40 has a complex shape. Therefore, if the design is changed to further increase the length of the extension 42B in the direction of the central axis C, the processing cost may also increase.

[0139] Alternatively, one could consider making a portion of the guide portion 42A an extension portion 42B without changing the overall length of the pilot valve body 40 along the central axis C, thereby increasing the length of the solder retention area RA along the central axis C (for reference only). Figure 13 (a) and Figure 13 (b) shows 42A, 42B), but the desired indentation depth may not be achieved.

[0140] To eliminate this new problem, the plunger tube 10”' of the third embodiment variation 1 adopts a throttling section 10B”' integrally provided on the annular portion 10A” of the third embodiment. Specifically, as Figure 13 As shown in (b), in the modified example 1 of the third embodiment, the plunger tube 10”’ has an integrally formed throttling section 10B”’ that narrows to the left in the direction of the central axis C via the annular portion 10A”. Furthermore, the outer diameter of the throttling section 10B”’ is set to be approximately the same as the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 41, and is guided by the inner diameter of the small diameter portion 41. Thus, as Figure 13 As shown in (b), the insertion depth of the modified example 1 of the third embodiment is the length in the direction of the central axis C after adding the guide portion 42A and the small-diameter guide portion 41A”’ of the inserted throttling portion 10B”’, which can ensure that it is in line with the central axis C. Figure 13 The length of the guide portion 42A in the direction of the central axis C in the third embodiment shown in (a) is the same.

[0141] Furthermore, in Variation 1 of the third embodiment, the press-in allowance between the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A and the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10”' is approximately the same as the press-in allowance between the inner diameter of the small-diameter guide portion 41A”' and the outer diameter of the throttling portion 10B”', but this is not a limitation; for example, the respective press-in allowances can be different. In this case, it is preferable to make the press-in allowance between the inner diameter of the guide portion 42A (which has a larger diameter) and the outer diameter of the plunger tube 10”' greater than the press-in allowance between the inner diameter of the small-diameter guide portion 41A”' and the outer diameter of the throttling portion 10B”'. This makes it easier to suppress the eccentricity of the joint and to easily assemble the plunger tube 10”' to the pilot valve body 40.

[0142] Thus, in the modified example 1 of the third embodiment, the plunger tube 10”' adopts a throttling portion 10B”' integrally provided with the annular portion 10A” of the third embodiment. Therefore, the modified example 1 of the third embodiment can achieve the same effects as the third embodiment, namely, it can eliminate previous problems (eccentricity of the joint and insufficient strength of the joint), prevent leakage of working fluid to the outside due to stress corrosion cracking, and easily press into the desired depth while reducing the number of parts. Furthermore, the required joint strength of the joint can be set lower. In addition to these effects, in the modified example 1 of the third embodiment, without changing the length of the pilot valve body 40 along the central axis C direction and while maintaining the pressing depth of the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10”', the solder retention area RA, i.e., the length of the extension 42B of the pilot valve body 40 along the central axis C direction, can be increased, making the brazing connection between the pilot valve body 40 and the plunger tube 10”' more robust.

[0143] (Modification 2 of the third embodiment)

[0144] Here, use Figure 14 The plunger tube 10”-1 in Variation 2 of the third embodiment will be described. The difference between the plunger tube 10”-1 in Variation 2 of the third embodiment and the plunger tube 10” in the third embodiment is that a plurality of grooves G extending radially from the central axis C are provided on the contact surface between the annular portion 10A” and the plunger 20. The other basic structure is the same as in the third embodiment. Here, the same reference numerals are used to label the same parts, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0145] Modification 3 of the first embodiment (see reference) Figure 7 ) and variations of the second embodiment (see Figure 11 Similarly, as described in the third embodiment, when the plunger 20 abuts against the annular portion 10A”, if there is a predetermined amount or more of refrigeration oil between the plunger 20 and the annular portion 10A”, the plunger 20 and the annular portion 10A” may adhere to each other.

[0146] In contrast, in the modified example 2 of the third embodiment, the annular portion 10A” has a plurality of radially extending grooves G on the contact surface with the plunger 20. While the annular portion 10A” of the modified example 2 of the third embodiment has a plurality of radially extending grooves G on the contact surface with the plunger 20, this is not limited to this; for example, it may also be similar to the modified example 3 of the first embodiment (see...). Figure 7 Similarly, multiple V-shaped grooves G, multiple protrusions P, multiple parallel grooves G, and combinations thereof are provided in the direction of the central axis C. Thus, when the plunger 20 abuts against the annular portion 10A", the refrigerant oil between the plunger 20 and the annular portion 10A" is actively discharged towards the central axis C via the multiple grooves G communicating with the inner circumferential side, the multiple V-shaped grooves G, and the gaps D formed between the protrusions P. This suppresses adhesion between the plunger 20 and the annular portion 10A".

[0147] <Other>

[0148] The sliding switching valves 100, 100A, 100B, and 100C of this embodiment can be applied not only to the illustrated refrigeration cycle system 1, but also to all fluid devices and fluid circuits. Furthermore, this invention is not limited to the various embodiments, implementations, and variations described above; appropriate modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the technical spirit of this invention.

[0149] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0150] 1 Refrigeration cycle system

[0151] 1C C connector pipe

[0152] 1D D-connector pipe

[0153] 1DA base

[0154] 1DB Installation Department

[0155] 1DC tilt section

[0156] 1E E connector pipe

[0157] 1S S connector pipe

[0158] 10, 10-1, 10”, 10”-1, 10”' plunger tube

[0159] 10A front end

[0160] 10A” Circular Part

[0161] 10B”' Throttling section

[0162] 11', 11'-1 retaining ring (retaining element)

[0163] 20, 20' plunger

[0164] 21 protrusions

[0165] 21' Cylindrical section (sliding section)

[0166] 22. Expanded Diameter Section (Sliding Section)

[0167] 22' front end

[0168] 23 Shoulders

[0169] 23' opening edge

[0170] Paths connecting 24A and 24B

[0171] 24C helical spring support

[0172] 24D' concave part

[0173] 25 Valve Spring Storage Hole

[0174] 25' connecting rod

[0175] 25A' opening

[0176] 26 Valve Core Guide Hole

[0177] 26' connector

[0178] 30 Sliding valve core

[0179] 30A Recess

[0180] 31, 31' Valve Spring

[0181] 40, 40-1 to 40-6 pilot valve body (valve body)

[0182] 40A Valve Seat Mounting Hole

[0183] 41. Small diameter section

[0184] 41A”'Pathway Guide Section

[0185] 42 Large diameter part

[0186] 42A Guidance Section

[0187] 42B Extension

[0188] 42C Flange

[0189] 43 Steps

[0190] 44, 44' protrusions (first port)

[0191] 44A, 44A' protruding ends

[0192] 50 valve seat

[0193] 51E, 51S, 51C Through-holes (Second Port, Third Port, Fourth Port)

[0194] 60 suction components

[0195] 60A Internal Threaded Hole

[0196] 61. Coil Spring

[0197] 70 Electromagnetic Coil Unit

[0198] 71 Molded Coil Section

[0199] 72. Outer shell

[0200] 72A mounting hole

[0201] 73 Wires

[0202] 74 small screws

[0203] 100, 100A, 100B, 100C sliding switching valves

[0204] 200 Pilot-operated four-way switching valve

[0205] 300 compressor

[0206] 400 Outdoor Heat Exchanger

[0207] 500 Indoor Heat Exchanger

[0208] 600 Throttling Device (Expansion Valve)

[0209] B-ring-shaped protrusions

[0210] C Central Axis

[0211] D-protrusion gap

[0212] F-brazing lead

[0213] G slot

[0214] L-shaped protrusions

[0215] P multiple protrusions

[0216] R brazing

[0217] RA solder retention area (joint)

[0218] S filter

[0219] X-axis

[0220] Inner diameter of the protruding end of ΦA

[0221] The inner diameter of the base in the ΦB D connector pipe.

Claims

1. A sliding switching valve, comprising: The valve body is cylindrical with a bottom and is formed by a thin plate, with an open end on one side in the axial direction; A cylindrical plunger tube is fixed to the open end of the valve body; Multiple connector pipes are connected to the peripheral wall of the valve body and communicate with the interior of the valve body; A plunger that can slide in the axial direction within the plunger tube; and A sliding valve core, connected to the plunger, switches the communication state with the plurality of connector pipes by moving axially within the valve body. Its features are, The valve body has: The smaller diameter portion houses the sliding valve core; A large-diameter section, having an inner and outer diameter larger than that of the small-diameter section, and fixing the plunger tube; and A stepped portion is formed between the small-diameter portion and the large-diameter portion. The large-diameter section comprises a guide section and an extension section. The guide section guides the outer diameter of the plunger tube and has a small gap with the outer diameter of the plunger tube. The gap between the extension section and the outer diameter of the plunger tube is larger than the gap between the guide section and the outer diameter of the plunger tube. The extension section is designated as a solder retention area for the joint with the plunger tube. A stop is provided between the stepped portion and the guide portion to restrict the plunger from moving in the opposite direction of the axial direction.

2. The sliding switching valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop is a stop ring having an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the plunger tube and an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the sliding portion of the plunger. The stop ring is clamped between the plunger tube on the other side of the axial direction and the stepped portion.

3. The sliding switching valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop is a ring-shaped portion formed by bending the plunger tube radially inward in a direction opposite to the axial direction, such that it has an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the sliding portion of the plunger. The annular portion abuts against the stepped portion.

4. The sliding switching valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plunger tube also has a throttling section via the annular portion, which narrows in diameter in the axial direction with an outer diameter that is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the small diameter portion of the valve body, and is guided by the inner diameter of the small diameter portion.

5. The sliding switching valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop member has a groove or multiple protrusions on its contact surface with the plunger that communicate with the inner circumferential side of the contact surface.

6. The sliding switching valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, One side of the extension has a flange formed by bending radially outward.

7. The sliding switching valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve body has a generally cylindrical protrusion that extends radially outward on its peripheral wall. At least one of the said connector tubes has a base and a mounting portion, the mounting portion having an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of the base and approximately the same as the outer diameter of the protrusion. The inner circumferential surface of the mounting portion is guided by the outer circumferential surface of the protrusion to fix the connector tube to the valve body.

8. The sliding switching valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The at least one connector tube also has an inclined portion formed between the base and the mounting portion. The filter is held between the inclined portion and the protruding end of the protrusion.

9. The sliding switching valve according to claim 8, characterized in that, The protruding end of the protrusion has a bent portion formed by bending radially inward toward the protrusion.

10. The sliding switching valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, In the protrusion, the inner diameter of the protruding end having the bend is greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the base in the at least one connector tube.

11. The sliding switching valve according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The sliding switching valve is a direct-acting electromagnetic sliding valve.

12. A refrigeration cycle system comprising a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a pilot-operated four-way switching valve. Its features are, The pilot valve for the pilot-operated four-way switching valve is the sliding switching valve as described in claim 11.

Images