Valve device

Abstract

The present application provides a valve device that can suppress poor engagement that can occur when shifting to linked operation. A transmission mechanism (140) of a valve device (101) has a first driven gear (142) that links with a valve body (120B) as a drive-side gear and a second driven gear (143) that rotates in linkage with a valve body (120A). The second driven gear (143) has a link rod (143b) that extends toward the radial outside and a pin (143c) that protrudes from the link rod (143b) toward the axial direction. The first driven gear (142) has an insertion groove (142d) into which the pin (143c) is inserted from the outer periphery in the radial direction in a state in which an upper tooth (142a-1) and a tooth (143a) are engaged, and a cam groove (142f) that is continuous with the insertion groove (142d) and is formed in a circular arc shape with the rotation axis of the first driven gear (142) as the center. In a state in which the engagement of the upper tooth (142a-1) and the tooth (143a) is released, the pin (143c) is inserted into the cam groove (142f) while restricting the movement of the pin (143c) in the radial direction and allowing the movement in the circumferential direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a valve device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a slide valve. The slide valve includes a cross-section adjusting component constituting the valve body and a drive cross-section adjusting component. Both the cross-section adjusting component and the drive cross-section adjusting component are driven by gears. The cross-section adjusting component and the drive cross-section adjusting component operate in a linked action and in a separate action where only the cross-section adjusting component rotates individually.

[0003] (Existing technical literature)

[0004] (Patent Documents)

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-507762 Summary of the Invention

[0006] (The problem the invention aims to solve)

[0007] However, in this spool valve, during the linked operation, the gear meshes with the teeth of the cross-section adjustment component and the driving cross-section adjustment component, but during the independent operation, the gear does not mesh with the teeth of the driving cross-section adjustment component. Therefore, in this independent operation, there is a concern that the rotation angle of the driving cross-section adjustment component may change due to the influence of the fluid.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a valve device that can suppress the change of the rotation angle of the valve body when operating alone.

[0009] (The measures taken to solve the problem)

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a valve device is provided, comprising: a first valve body that rotates about a first central axis; a second valve body that rotates about a second central axis parallel to the first central axis; and a switching mechanism that links the first valve body and the second valve body to switch flow paths, the switching mechanism comprising: a drive-side gear that rotates in conjunction with the first valve body under the driving force of an actuator; and a driven-side gear that rotates in conjunction with the second valve body due to the rotation of the drive-side gear, the driven-side gear comprising: a driven tooth portion formed on its outer periphery. The gear comprises: a connecting rod extending radially outward beyond the driven tooth; and a pin protruding axially from the connecting rod. The drive-side gear has: a drive tooth meshing with the driven tooth; an insertion groove for radially inserting the pin from its outer periphery when the drive tooth is meshed with the driven tooth; and a cam groove continuous with the insertion groove and formed in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis of the drive-side gear, allowing the pin to be inserted when the meshing of the drive tooth and the driven tooth is disengaged, thus restricting radial movement of the pin while allowing circumferential movement.

[0011] (The effect of the invention)

[0012] In the above configuration, the driven gear, which rotates in conjunction with the second valve body, includes a connecting rod with a pin. Furthermore, the drive gear includes an insertion groove for inserting the pin when the drive teeth are engaged with the driven teeth of the driven gear, and a cam groove continuous with the insertion groove. When the engagement between the drive teeth and the driven teeth is disengaged, the cam groove restricts radial movement of the pin while allowing circumferential movement.

[0013] Therefore, when the engagement between the driving and driven teeth is disengaged, the radial movement of the pin on the driving side gear is restricted by the cam groove, thus suppressing unintended rotation of the driven side gear. Therefore, a valve device capable of suppressing variations in the rotation angle of the valve body during individual operation can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a valve device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of the valve assembly.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a top view of the valve assembly.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the gears of the transmission mechanism of the valve device.

[0018] Figure 5It is a diagram used to illustrate the action of the transmission mechanism when transferring from a linked action to an individual action.

[0019] Figure 6 It is used to explain and Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0020] Figure 7 It is used to explain and Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0021] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the operation of the transmission mechanism when the valve device switches to the first mode.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device switched to the first mode.

[0023] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the operation of the transmission mechanism when the valve device switches to the second mode.

[0024] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device switched to the second mode.

[0025] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates the operation of the transmission mechanism when the valve device switches to the third mode.

[0026] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device switched to the third mode.

[0027] Figure 14 This is a perspective view showing the gears of the transmission mechanism of the valve device in the first modified example.

[0028] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism of the valve device in the first modified example.

[0029] Figure 16 It is used to explain and Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0030] Figure 17 It is used to explain and Figure 16 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0031] Figure 18 It is used to explain and Figure 17 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0032] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism of the valve device in the second variation.

[0033] Figure 20 It is used to explain and Figure 19A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms.

[0034] Figure 21 It is used to explain and Figure 20 A diagram illustrating the actions of successive transmission mechanisms. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 13 The valve device 101 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0036] Valve device 101 is used, for example, in a temperature control system installed in a vehicle. The temperature control system regulates the temperature of a drive motor or battery, which is a heat source in the drive system, by switching the flow of circulating cooling medium while regulating the air inside the vehicle.

[0037] First, refer to Figures 1 to 3 The configuration of valve device 101 will be described. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of valve device 101. Figure 2 This is an exploded perspective view of valve device 101. Figure 3 This is a top view of valve device 101.

[0038] like Figure 2 As shown, the valve device 101 includes: a housing 110, a pair of valve bodies 120, a sealing member 130, a transmission mechanism 140, a cover member 150, and an actuator 160. The valve device 101 comprises: a pair of valve bodies 120 and a housing 110 that rotatably accommodates the valve bodies 120. The valve device 101 is a rotary valve that switches flow paths, and it switches between a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode, each with a different flow path.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, housing 110 is a generally cuboid-shaped box with curved corners. Housing 110 houses a pair of valve bodies 120. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the housing 110 has: a pair of valve body receiving portions 111, a plurality of (here, 6) connecting holes 112, and a communicating hole 113. The housing 110 is divided into a first housing 110A and a second housing 110B.

[0040] The first housing 110A has a pair of valve body receiving portions 111, six connecting holes 112, and a communicating hole 113. The first housing 110A is formed with an open top surface to accommodate the valve body 120 in the valve body receiving portion 111 and to allow the sealing member 130 to be inserted.

[0041] The second housing 110B is a cover used to close the opening of the first housing 110A. The second housing 110B closes the opening of the valve body receiving portion 111 formed within the first housing 110A. The second housing 110B presses a sealing member 130 between itself and the first housing 110A. The second housing 110B is fixed to the first housing 110A by tightening a plurality of bolts 110C. A gear receiving chamber 115 for accommodating the transmission mechanism 140 is formed on the side of the second housing 110B opposite to the first housing 110A.

[0042] The valve body receiving portion 111 is a cylindrical space in which the valve body 120 is rotatably arranged. The valve body receiving portion 111 has a valve body receiving portion 111A for receiving one valve body 120A and a valve body receiving portion 111B for receiving the other valve body 120B. In each valve body receiving portion 111, three connecting holes 112 and a communicating hole 113 are arranged in a cross shape in the circumferential direction.

[0043] The connecting hole 112 communicates between the valve body receiving portion 111 and the outside of the housing 110. The connecting hole 112 is formed on the inner circumference of a cylindrical tubular component protruding outward from the first housing 110A. The connecting hole 112 opens on the inner circumferential surface of the valve body receiving portion 111. The connecting holes 112 are arranged circumferentially along the valve bodies 120 within the valve body receiving portion 111. The connecting hole 112 communicates with either one side passage 121 or the other side passage 122 in one of the pair of valve bodies 120 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the connection hole 112 has: a connection hole 112A as a first connection hole and a connection hole 112B as a second connection hole, which are provided in a manner that clamps one valve body 120A. The connection hole 112 also has: a connection hole 112C as a third connection hole and a connection hole 112D as a fourth connection hole, which are provided in a manner that clamps the other valve body 120B. Furthermore, the connection hole 112 has: a connection hole 112E as a fifth connection hole and a connection hole 112F as a sixth connection hole, which are provided in a manner that clamps both one valve body 120A and the other valve body 120B.

[0045] In the valve body receiving portion 111A, connecting holes 112A, 112E, 112B, and connecting hole 113 are arranged sequentially at 90-degree intervals along the circumferential direction. That is, connecting holes 112A and 112B are arranged on the same straight line, and connecting holes 112E and 113 are arranged on the same straight line, with these lines intersecting each other perpendicularly. In the valve body receiving portion 111B, connecting holes 112D, 112F, 112C, and connecting hole 113 are arranged sequentially at 90-degree intervals along the circumferential direction. That is, connecting holes 112C and 112D are arranged on the same straight line, and connecting holes 112F and 113 are arranged on the same straight line, with these lines intersecting each other perpendicularly.

[0046] A pair of adjacent connecting holes 112A and 112C, respectively communicating with one valve body receiving portion 111A and the other valve body receiving portion 111B, are connected, for example, through a first cooling water circuit 50. A pair of connecting holes 112B and 112E, communicating with one valve body receiving portion 111A, are connected, for example, through a third cooling water circuit 70. A pair of connecting holes 112D and 112F, communicating with the other valve body receiving portion 111B, are connected, for example, through a second cooling water circuit 60.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the connecting hole 113 connects the various valve body receiving portions 111. Specifically, the connecting hole 113 is a channel formed by cutting a notch in the wall of the nearest position of one valve body receiving portion 111A and the other valve body receiving portion 111B to connect them. The connecting hole 113 is provided on the straight line connecting the connecting holes 112E and 112F. The connecting hole 113 opens on the inner circumferential surface of the valve body receiving portion 111.

[0048] A pair of valve bodies 120 are arranged in a manner that allows them to rotate about a central axis of rotation. The valve bodies 120 are generally cylindrical. Each valve body 120 has a valve body 120A housed in a valve body receiving portion 111A on one side and a valve body 120B housed in a valve body receiving portion 111B on the other side. The pair of valve bodies 120 are arranged in a manner that allows them to be parallel to each other about their respective central axes of rotation.

[0049] Valve body 120A constitutes the second valve body, and valve body 120B constitutes the first valve body. The first central axis C1 constituting the rotation center axis of valve body 120B and the second central axis C2 constituting the rotation center of valve body 120A are arranged in a parallel manner.

[0050] For example, such as Figure 9 As shown, within the valve body 120, there are two channels, one side 121 and the other side 122, separated by the center of rotation (see reference). Figure 9These one-sided channels 121 and the other-sided channel 122 are equivalent to internal valve channels. However, this is not a limitation; within the valve body 120, there is not limited to a pair of internal valve channels, as long as at least one internal valve channel is internally defined.

[0051] A pair of openings in one side channel 121 are arranged at 90-degree intervals along the circumferential direction of the valve body 120. Similarly, a pair of openings in the other side channel 122 are arranged at 90-degree intervals along the circumferential direction of the valve body 120. In other words, the pair of openings in one side channel 121 and the pair of openings in the other side channel 122 are arranged at 90-degree intervals along the circumferential direction of the valve body 120.

[0052] Within the housing 110, three flow channels are formed through a side channel 121 and a side channel 122 within each valve body 120 and a connecting hole 113, which connect every two connecting holes 112.

[0053] Thus, the valve device 101 is provided with a pair of valve bodies 120 that can rotate around the rotation center and a housing 110 that accommodates the pair of valve bodies 120. The valve bodies 120 are accommodated in each valve body receiving part 111 through a connecting hole 113.

[0054] Therefore, by rotating a pair of valve bodies 120 respectively, multiple connection holes 112 are directly connected to each other through valve internal channels (one side channel 121 and the other side channel 122) divided within the valve bodies 120. Alternatively, by rotating a pair of valve bodies 120 respectively, multiple connection holes 112 are connected through valve internal channels (one side channel 121 and the other side channel 122) and connecting holes 113. This allows for switching between multiple modes. Therefore, a valve device 101 with a simple configuration that allows for switching between multiple modes can be provided.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, a pair of valve bodies 120 are driven to rotate together by a single actuator 160. This allows for coordinated control with a simple configuration of the rotary-driven valve bodies 120, without the need for separate actuators. Valve body 120A switches to a first position, a second position, and a third position under the action of actuator 160. Valve body 120B switches to the first position and the second position under the action of actuator 160. For details on the switching of valve body 120 positions, refer to... Figures 8 to 13 A detailed explanation will follow.

[0056] The sealing member 130 has a first sealing member 131 and a pair of second sealing members 132. The first sealing member 131 is formed in an elliptical shape and seals the outer periphery of a pair of valve body receiving portions 111. The second sealing members 132 are formed in a circular shape and seal the outer periphery of the rotation shaft of each valve body 120.

[0057] The transmission mechanism 140 has a drive gear 141, a first driven gear 142, and a second driven gear 143. The transmission mechanism 140 constitutes a switching mechanism that drives each gear 141, 142, 143 to link valve bodies 120A and 120B to switch flow channels.

[0058] The drive gear 141 is connected to the output shaft of the actuator 160. The drive gear 141 rotates under the driving force of the actuator 160. The drive gear 141 constitutes the main drive gear. The drive gear 141 is connected to the rotation shaft of the valve body 120B. The drive gear 141 meshes with the first driven gear 142.

[0059] The first driven gear 142 rotates under the rotation of the drive gear 141. The first driven gear 142 meshes with the second driven gear 143. The first driven gear 142 constitutes a drive-side gear for driving the second driven gear 143.

[0060] The second driven gear 143 rotates in response to the rotation of the first driven gear 142. The second driven gear 143 constitutes a driven side gear driven by the first driven gear 142. The second driven gear 143 is connected to the rotating shaft of one of the valve bodies 120A.

[0061] The transmission mechanism 140 illustrates a configuration capable of switching the valve device 101 to a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. Alternatively, the transmission mechanism 140 may also be configured to switch the valve device 101 to a fourth mode in addition to being able to switch to the first, second, and third modes. For the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 in this case, please refer to... Figures 15 to 18 A detailed explanation will follow.

[0062] The cover component 150 is a cover for closing the gear receiving chamber 115 of the second housing 110B. The cover component 150 is secured to the second housing 110B by fastening a plurality of bolts 150A.

[0063] The actuator 160 is located on the side of the cover member 150 opposite to the second housing 110B. The actuator 160 is fixed to the cover member 150 by fastening a plurality of bolts 160A. The output shaft of the actuator 160 passes through (inserts through) the cover member 150 and is connected to the drive gear 141. The actuator 160 rotates according to the command signal from the controller to switch the mode of the transmission mechanism 140 and switch the valve device 101 to the respective mode.

[0064] <Transmission Mechanism>

[0065] Reference Figures 4 to 7 The drive gear 141, the first driven gear 142, and the second driven gear 143 constituting the transmission mechanism 140 will be described.

[0066] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing the gears 141, 142, and 143 of the transmission mechanism 140 of the valve device 101. Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the action of the transmission mechanism 140 when transferring from a linked action to a separate action. Figure 6 It is used to explain and Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140. Figure 7 It is used to explain and Figure 6 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140.

[0067] [Drive gear]

[0068] like Figure 4 As shown, teeth 141a constituting auxiliary teeth are formed on the entire circumference of the outer peripheral surface of the drive gear 141. A shaft portion 141b extends from the center of one side of the drive gear 141. A connection is formed at the front end of the shaft portion 141b with the actuator 160 (see reference). Figure 2 The output shaft is connected to gear 141c.

[0069] The drive gear 141 constitutes the main drive gear that rotates integrally with the valve body 120B under the driving force of the actuator 160 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0070] [First driven gear]

[0071] The first driven gear 142 is a partial gear. A partial gear is a gear in which there is a toothed part (upper tooth 142a-1) and an untoothed part (upper tooth 142a-1) in the circumferential direction of the gear.

[0072] Teeth 142a are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first driven gear 142. The teeth 142a have: an upper tooth 142a-1 that is formed on the side of the first driven gear 142 closer to the actuator 160 in the axial direction and a lower tooth 142a-2 that is formed on the side away from the actuator 160.

[0073] The upper tooth 142a-1 is formed only on a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first driven gear 142.

[0074] The lower tooth 142a-2 is positioned in the direction of the first central axis C1, with the stepped surface 142c as the boundary (refer to...). Figure 2 On one side of the drive gear 142, the lower tooth 142a-2 forms a wider area of ​​teeth in the circumferential direction than the upper tooth 142a-1, which serves as the driving tooth. Specifically, the lower tooth 142a-2 is formed on the entire circumference of the outer circumference of the first driven gear 142. The lower tooth 142a-2 meshes with the tooth 141a of the drive gear 141, which serves as the main driving gear.

[0075] In the region where the lower tooth 142a-2 is formed, the upper tooth 142a-1 is arranged on the extension line of the lower tooth 142a-2, and the upper tooth 142a-1 and the lower tooth 142a-2 are integrally formed.

[0076] The upper teeth 142a-1 form a drive tooth portion that meshes with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143. The first driven gear 142 meshes with the second driven gear 143, which rotates integrally with one of the valve bodies 120A, thereby linking the drive gear 141 and the second driven gear 143.

[0077] A first central axis C1 direction (refer to) is formed on the periphery of one side of the first driven gear 142. Figure 2 The recess 142b is an arc-shaped depression. The recess 142b is formed in the region where the upper teeth 142a-1 are not present. The bottom of the recess 142b forms a stepped surface 142c, which is formed on the first driven gear 142.

[0078] An insertion groove 142d extending radially is formed on the stepped surface 142c. The insertion groove 142d reaches the outer peripheral surface 142e of the first driven gear 142, and the end of the insertion groove 142d opens on the outer peripheral surface 142e. The outer peripheral surface 142e forms a curved sliding surface without the upper tooth 142a-1. An arc-shaped cam groove 142f, continuous with the insertion groove 142d and centered on the rotation axis of the first driven gear 142, is formed on the stepped surface 142c.

[0079] [Second driven gear]

[0080] The second driven gear 143 is a partial gear. A partial gear is a gear in which there is a portion with teeth 143a and a portion without teeth 143a in the circumferential direction of the gear.

[0081] The second driven gear 143 has teeth 143a formed only on a portion of its outer peripheral surface as driven teeth. During the period when teeth 143a mesh with the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142, the second driven gear 143 rotates in conjunction with the first driven gear 142. During the period when teeth 143a disengage from the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142, the second driven gear 143 does not rotate.

[0082] By engaging the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 with the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143, the drive gear 141 is linked with the second driven gear 143, thus achieving the linkage action of valve body 120A and valve body 120B. Conversely, by disengaging the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 with the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143, the rotation of the second driven gear 143 stops, thereby achieving the independent rotation action of valve body 120B.

[0083] In the second driven gear 143, a plate-shaped connecting rod 143b extends radially outward from a portion of the outer periphery of the toothless gear 143a. The connecting rod 143b extends from the inlet portion 143e of the outer periphery of the toothless gear 143a.

[0084] The entry part 143e indicates a position close to the tooth 143a provided at one end, and the connecting rod 143b is arranged in the direction of the arrangement of each tooth 143a.

[0085] A pin 143c protruding axially toward the second driven gear 143 is provided at the front end of the connecting rod 143b. The pin 143c is cylindrical. In addition, the connecting rod 143b has a curved sliding contact surface 143d that matches the outer peripheral surface 142e.

[0086] like Figure 5 As shown, when the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 meshes with the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143 and rotates, the connecting rod 143b of the second driven gear 143 enters the recess 142b of the first driven gear 142. At this time, the pin 143c of the second driven gear 143 is inserted radially from the outer circumference of the first driven gear 142 into the insertion groove 142d. Afterwards, the meshing between the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 and the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143 is disengaged.

[0087] like Figures 5 to 6 As shown, when pin 143c passes through insertion groove 142d, with the rotation of the first driven gear 142, pin 143c abuts against the abutment portion 142g formed on the edge of insertion groove 142d. Thus, pin 143c moves in the rotational direction of the first driven gear 142. Therefore, even when the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 is disengaged from the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143, the second driven gear 143 is still driven to rotate by the rotation of the first driven gear 142.

[0088] like Figures 6 to 7 As shown, regarding the second driven gear 143, since the pin 143c is pushed and rotated by the abutment portion 142g, the pin 143c is inserted into the cam groove 142f. Figure 7As shown, with the pin 143c inserted into the cam groove 142f, the drive of the second driven gear 143, based on the contact between the abutment portion 142g and the pin 143c, ends.

[0089] After the second driven gear 143, based on the contact between the abutment portion 142g and the pin 143c, has finished driving, the pin 143c is positioned within the cam groove 142f under the rotation of the first driven gear 142. Under the action of the edge of the cam groove 142f, the radial movement of the pin 143c positioned within the cam groove 142f is restricted, while the circumferential movement of the first driven gear 142 is permitted.

[0090] Thus, with respect to pin 143c and cam groove 142f, since relative movement toward the circumferential direction of the first driven gear 142 is allowed, the first driven gear 142 can rotate in a state that holds pin 143c within cam groove 142f.

[0091] When the driving of the second driven gear 143 based on the abutment part 142g is finished, the teeth 143a-e at one end of the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143 are maintained in a position that can mesh with the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 when the first driven gear 142 rotates in the counterclockwise direction.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, assuming an imaginary straight line KL along each of the gears 141, 142, and 143, the rotation axis of the drive gear 141, the rotation axis of the first driven gear 142, and the rotation axis of the second driven gear 143 are arranged on the imaginary straight line KL.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the rotation axes of the drive gear 141, the first driven gear 142, and the second driven gear 143 are described as being arranged on an imaginary straight line KL, but this embodiment is not limited to this. The rotation axes of the drive gear 141, the first driven gear 142, and the second driven gear 143 may not be arranged on the imaginary straight line KL.

[0094] Furthermore, for the drive gear 141, the first driven gear 142, and the second driven gear 143, the pitch circle diameter, which represents the diameter of the circle connecting the teeth of each gear 141, 142, and 143, is the same. This allows for equal gear ratios among the gears 141, 142, and 143, making it easier to design the torque applied to each gear 141, 142, and 143.

[0095] <Valve Device Modes>

[0096] Next, refer to Figures 8 to 13 The first mode, the second mode and the third mode of valve device 101 are described respectively.

[0097] First, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The first mode of valve device 101 will be described. Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 when the valve device 101 switches to the first mode. Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device 101 switched to the first mode.

[0098] like Figure 8 As shown, in the transmission mechanism 140, the teeth 141a of the drive gear 141 mesh with the lower teeth 142a-2 of the first driven gear 142, and the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143.

[0099] At this time, as Figure 9 As shown, for valve body 120A, one side channel 121 connects connecting holes 112A and 112E, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting hole 112B and connecting hole 113. For valve body 120B, one side channel 121 connects connecting hole 112C and connecting hole 113, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting hole 112D and connecting hole 112F. At this time, connecting holes 112B and 112C are connected through the other side channel 122 of valve body 120A, the connecting hole 113, and one side channel 121 of valve body 120B. Both valve bodies 120A and 120B are in the first position at this time.

[0100] Thus, the first cooling water circuit 50 and the third cooling water circuit 70 are connected, and the second cooling water circuit 60 becomes independent (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0101] Next, refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second mode of valve device 101 will be described. Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 when the valve device 101 switches to the second mode. Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device 101 switched to the second mode.

[0102] If from Figure 8 and Figure 9 The state shown causes actuator 160 (refer to) Figure 1 When the drive gear 141 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise during operation, the first driven gear 142 rotates 90 degrees clockwise, and simultaneously the second driven gear 143 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise, thus becoming... Figure 10The state shown. At this time, valve body 120B also rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise together with drive gear 141, and valve body 120A also rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise together with second driven gear 143, thus becoming... Figure 11 The state shown.

[0103] like Figure 10 As shown, in the transmission mechanism 140, the teeth 141a of the drive gear 141 mesh with the lower teeth 142a-2 of the first driven gear 142. Conversely, the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 do not mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143. Regarding the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143, the outer peripheral surface 142e of the upper teeth 142a-1 does not form a sliding contact surface 143d (see reference). Figure 4 Even if the first driven gear 142 rotates further from this state, the second driven gear 143 will not rotate.

[0104] At this time, as Figure 11 As shown, for valve body 120A, one side channel 121 connects connecting hole 112A and connecting hole 113, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting hole 112B and connecting hole 112E. For valve body 120B, one side channel 121 connects connecting hole 112C and connecting hole 112F, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting hole 112D and connecting hole 113. At this time, connecting hole 112A and connecting hole 112D are connected through one side channel 121 and connecting hole 113 of valve body 120A, and the other side channel 122 of valve body 120B. Both valve bodies 120A and 120B are in the second position at this time.

[0105] Thus, the first cooling water circuit 50 and the second cooling water circuit 60 are connected, and the third cooling water circuit 70 becomes independent (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0106] Next, refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The third mode of valve device 101 will be described. Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 when the valve device 101 switches to the third mode. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the valve device 101 switched to the third mode.

[0107] If from Figure 10 and Figure 11 The state shown causes actuator 160 (refer to) Figure 1 When the drive gear 141 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise, the first driven gear 142 rotates 90 degrees clockwise, but the second driven gear 143 does not rotate, thus becoming... Figure 12The state shown. At this time, valve body 120B also rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise along with drive gear 141, while valve body 120A does not rotate, thus becoming... Figure 13 The state shown.

[0108] like Figure 12 As shown, in the transmission mechanism 140, the teeth 141a of the drive gear 141 mesh with the lower teeth 142a-2 of the first driven gear 142. Conversely, the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 do not mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143. Regarding the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143, the outer peripheral surface 142e of the upper teeth 142a-1 does not form a sliding contact with the sliding contact surface 143d (see reference). Figure 4 Even if the first driven gear 142 rotates further from this state, the second driven gear 143 will not rotate.

[0109] Furthermore, if the drive gear 141 is rotated clockwise from this state and the first driven gear 142 is rotated counterclockwise, the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 will mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143 again, thereby enabling the second driven gear 143 to rotate clockwise.

[0110] At this time, as Figure 13 As shown, for valve body 120B, one side channel 121 connects connecting holes 112D and 112F, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting holes 112C and 113. For valve body 120A, one side channel 121 connects connecting holes 112A and 113, and the other side channel 122 connects connecting holes 112B and 112E. At this time, connecting holes 112A and 112C are connected through one side channel 121 of valve body 120A, the 113 of valve body 120A, and the other side channel 122 of valve body 120B. The position of valve body 120B at this time is the third position, while the position of valve body 120A remains the second position.

[0111] Therefore, the first cooling water circuit 50, the second cooling water circuit 60, and the third cooling water circuit 70 all become independent (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0112] By means of the transmission mechanism 140 operating as described above, even when using a single actuator 160, valve body 120A can be switched to the first position and the second position, and valve body 120B can be switched to the first position, the second position, and the third position. Thus, valve device 101 can be switched to the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode.

[0113] <Effects>

[0114] Based on the above implementation methods, the following effects can be obtained.

[0115] The valve device 101 includes a valve body 120B, which is a first valve body and rotates about a first central axis C1, and a valve body 120A, which is a second valve body and rotates about a second central axis C2 that is parallel to the first central axis C1. The valve device 101 includes a transmission mechanism 140, which is a switching mechanism that links the valve bodies 120A and 120B to switch the flow path.

[0116] The transmission mechanism 140 has a first driven gear 142, which rotates in conjunction with the valve body 120B under the driving force of the actuator 160, and a second driven gear 143, which rotates in conjunction with the valve body 120A under the transmission of the rotation of the first driven gear 142, and serves as a driven gear.

[0117] The second driven gear 143 has a tooth 143a formed as a driven tooth on a portion of its outer periphery, a connecting rod 143b extending radially outward beyond the tooth 143a, and a pin 143c protruding axially from the connecting rod 143b.

[0118] The first driven gear 142 has an upper tooth 142a-1 that meshes with tooth 143a as a driving tooth, and an insertion groove 142d for inserting a pin 143c radially from its outer periphery when the upper tooth 142a-1 is engaged with tooth 143a. The first driven gear 142 has a cam groove 142f that is continuous with the insertion groove 142d and formed in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis of the first driven gear 142. When the engagement between the upper tooth 142a-1 and tooth 143a is disengaged, the pin 143c is inserted into the cam groove 142f, which restricts the radial movement of the pin 143c while allowing circumferential movement.

[0119] According to this method, the second driven gear 143, which rotates in conjunction with the valve body 120A, includes a connecting rod 143b with a pin 143c. Furthermore, the first driven gear 142 includes an insertion groove 142d for inserting the pin 143c when the upper tooth 142a-1 is engaged with the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143, and a cam groove 142f continuous with the insertion groove 142d. When the engagement between the upper tooth 142a-1 and the tooth 143a is disengaged, the cam groove 142f restricts radial movement of the pin 143c while allowing circumferential movement.

[0120] Therefore, when the engagement between the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143 is disengaged, the cam groove 142f of the first driven gear 142 restricts the radial movement of the pin 143c of the connecting rod 143b of the second driven gear 143 in the first driven gear 142. This prevents accidental rotation of the second driven gear 143.

[0121] Therefore, for example, even when the valve body 120A, which rotates in conjunction with the second driven gear 143, is subjected to a force from the fluid and a force that would cause the second driven gear 143 to rotate is transmitted to the second driven gear 143, the rotation of the second driven gear 143 can be suppressed. Thus, the rotation angle variation of the valve body 120A can be suppressed.

[0122] In addition, it can also suppress poor meshing that may occur when the upper tooth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 meshes with the tooth 143a of the second driven gear 143 and the linkage action is transferred to the linkage between the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143.

[0123] In valve device 101, a first driven gear 142, serving as a drive-side gear, meshes with a drive gear 141, serving as a main drive gear. The drive gear 141 rotates integrally with the valve body 120B, which serves as the first valve body, under the driving force of the actuator 160. The first driven gear 142 also meshes with a second driven gear 143, serving as a driven-side gear. The second driven gear 143 rotates integrally with the valve body 120A, which serves as the second valve body. Furthermore, the first driven gear 142 links the drive gear 141 and the second driven gear 143 together.

[0124] According to this method, by configuring a first driven gear 142 between a drive gear 141 that rotates integrally with the valve body 120B and a second driven gear 143 that rotates integrally with the valve body 120A, the drive gear 141 and the second driven gear 143 can be linked together.

[0125] Therefore, for example, compared to the case where the drive gear 141, which rotates integrally with the valve body 120B, and the second driven gear 143, which rotates integrally with the valve body 120A, directly mesh, the diameters of each gear 141 and 143 can be reduced, and the valve device 101 can be miniaturized.

[0126] In the valve device 101, the first driven gear 142, which is the drive-side gear, has an abutment portion 142g formed on the edge of the insertion groove 142d. The abutment portion 142g abuts against the pin 143c passing through the insertion groove 142d and drives the second driven gear 143, which is the driven-side gear, under the rotation of the first driven gear 142.

[0127] According to this method, even after the meshing of the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143 is disengaged, the second driven gear 143 can continue to rotate by pushing the pin 143c inserted into the insertion groove 142d with the abutment portion 142g. Thus, the pin 143c inserted into the insertion groove 142d can be guided towards the cam groove 142f.

[0128] In the valve device 101, the first driven gear 142, which serves as the drive side gear, the second driven gear 143, which serves as the driven side gear, and the drive gear 141, which serves as the main drive gear, have the same pitch circle diameter.

[0129] According to this method, the gear ratios among gears 141, 142, and 143 can be made equal, thus making it easier to design the torque applied to each gear 141, 142, and 143.

[0130] In the valve device 101, the rotation shafts of the first driven gear 142 (which serves as the drive side gear), the second driven gear 143 (which serves as the driven side gear), and the drive gear 141 (which serves as the main drive gear) are arranged on the same imaginary straight line KL.

[0131] According to this method, the configuration of each gear 141, 142, and 143 becomes easy.

[0132] In the valve device 101, the first driven gear 142, which serves as the drive gear, is a partial gear. In the area where the upper tooth 142a-1, which is not a drive tooth, is not provided, there is a recess 142b recessed in the direction of the first central axis C1, and a stepped surface 142c formed at the bottom of the recess 142b. An insertion groove 142d and a cam groove 142f are formed in the stepped surface 142c. The second driven gear 143, which also serves as the driven gear, is a partial gear. The connecting rod 143b extends radially outward from the entry portion 143e of the tooth 143a, which is not a drive tooth. When the upper tooth 142a-1, which serves as the drive tooth, is engaged with the tooth 143a, which serves as the driven tooth, the connecting rod 143b of the second driven gear 143 enters the recess 142b, and the pin 143c is inserted into the insertion groove 142d.

[0133] According to this method, compared with the case where the pin 143c of the connecting rod 143b protruding from one side of the second driven gear 143 is inserted into the insertion groove 142d and the cam groove 142f formed on one side of the first driven gear 142, the axial dimension of the second driven gear 143 can be suppressed.

[0134] In the valve device 101, the first driven gear 142, which serves as the drive gear, is a partial gear. In the area where the upper tooth 142a-1, which is not provided as the drive tooth, is not provided, there is a recess 142b recessed in the direction of the first central axis C1 and a stepped surface 142c formed at the bottom of the recess 142b. An insertion groove 142d and a cam groove 142f are formed in the stepped surface 142c. The second driven gear 143, which serves as the driven gear, is also a partial gear. The connecting rod 143b extends radially outward from the entry portion 143e of the tooth 143a, which is not provided as the driven tooth. When the upper tooth 142a-1, which serves as the drive tooth, is engaged with the tooth 143a, which serves as the driven tooth, the connecting rod 143b of the second driven gear 143 enters the recess 142b, and the pin 143c is inserted into the insertion groove 142d. The first driven gear 142, serving as the driving gear, has a lower tooth 142a-2 located on one side of the first central axis C1, bounded by the stepped surface 142c. The lower tooth 142a-2 forms a wide-area tooth portion that is wider in the circumferential direction than the upper tooth 142a-1, which serves as the driving tooth portion. The lower tooth 142a-2, as the wide-area tooth portion, meshes with the driving gear 141, which serves as the main driving gear.

[0135] According to this method, by configuring a first driven gear 142 between a drive gear 141 that rotates integrally with the valve body 120B and a second driven gear 143 that rotates integrally with the valve body 120A, the drive gear 141 and the second driven gear 143 can be linked together.

[0136] Moreover, even with this construction, the axial dimension of the second driven gear 143 can be suppressed.

[0137] <First Variation of the Transmission Mechanism>

[0138] Next, refer to Figures 14 to 18 A first modification of the transmission mechanism 140 will be described. In the first modification, the rotation area of ​​each valve body 120A and 120B is expanded. For parts that are the same or equivalent to those described above, the same reference numerals are used and the description is omitted. Only the different parts will be described.

[0139] Furthermore, the first to third modes of the valve device 101 described in the first variation may not necessarily represent the same state as the first to third modes described above.

[0140] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the gears of the transmission mechanism 140 of the valve device 101 in the first modified example. Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 of the valve device 101 in the first modified example. Figure 16 It is used to explain and Figure 15A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140. Figure 17 It is used to explain and Figure 16 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140. Figure 18 It is used to explain and Figure 17 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140.

[0141] [First driven gear]

[0142] A tooth 142a constituting a drive tooth portion is formed on the circumferential surface of the first driven gear 142. The tooth 142a has an upper tooth 142a-1 that is formed on the side of the first driven gear 142 closer to the actuator 160 in the axial direction and a lower tooth 142a-2 that is formed on the side away from the actuator 160.

[0143] The lower tooth 142a-2 is formed over the entire circumference of the first driven gear 142. The upper tooth 142a-1 is formed on a portion of the circumference of the first driven gear 142. The circumferential region where the upper tooth 142a-1 is formed is wider than the configuration described above.

[0144] An insertion groove 142d extending radially is formed on the step surface 142c. The insertion groove 142d is formed on one side of the step surface 142c in the circumferential direction, and the formation position of the insertion groove 142d is different from that in the above configuration where the insertion groove 142d is formed on the other side of the step surface 142c in the circumferential direction.

[0145] [Second driven gear]

[0146] The second driven gear 143 has a tooth 143a formed on a portion of its outer periphery as a driven tooth. The circumferential region in which the tooth 143a is formed is wider than the configuration described above.

[0147] like Figure 15 As shown, in the transmission mechanism 140, the teeth 141a of the drive gear 141 mesh with the lower teeth 142a-2 of the first driven gear 142, and the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143. At this time, the valve device 101 is in the first mode.

[0148] like Figure 15 As shown, if the drive gear 141 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, then the first driven gear 142 rotates 90 degrees counterclockwise while the second driven gear 143 rotates 90 degrees clockwise, thus becoming... Figure 16 The state shown. At this time, the valve body 120B also rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the drive gear 141, and the valve body 120A also rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the second driven gear 143, so that the valve device 101 becomes the second mode.

[0149] Next, if the drive gear 141 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the first driven gear 142 will rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise while the second driven gear 143 rotates 90 degrees clockwise, thus becoming... Figure 17 The state shown. At this time, the valve body 120B also rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the drive gear 141, and the valve body 120A also rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the second driven gear 143, so that the valve device 101 becomes the third mode.

[0150] Furthermore, the teeth 141a of the drive gear 141 of the transmission mechanism 140 mesh with the lower teeth 142a-2 of the first driven gear 142, while the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 do not mesh with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143. At this time, the pin 143c formed in the connecting rod 143b of the second driven gear 143 (see reference) Figure 14 It is configured in the cam groove 142f of the first driven gear 142.

[0151] Next, if the drive gear 141 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the first driven gear 142 will rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise, thus becoming... Figure 18 The state shown is as follows. At this time, the upper teeth 142a-1 of the first driven gear 142 are not meshed with the teeth 143a of the second driven gear 143, so the second driven gear 143 does not rotate. Therefore, the valve body 120B rotates 90 degrees clockwise together with the drive gear 141, while the valve body 120A does not rotate, thus the valve device 101 enters the fourth mode.

[0152] <Effects>

[0153] Even in the first modified example described above, when the meshing between the first driven gear 142 and the second driven gear 143 is disengaged, the cam groove 142f of the first driven gear 142 can restrict the radial movement of the pin 143c of the second driven gear 143 in the first driven gear 142. This suppresses the rotation of the second driven gear 143, thus achieving the same effect as described above.

[0154] In addition, by expanding the rotation area of ​​each valve body 120A and 120B, the number of modes that the valve device 101 can switch can be increased.

[0155] <Second variation of the transmission mechanism>

[0156] Next, refer to Figures 19 to 21A second modification of the transmission mechanism 140 will be described. In the second modification, a gear that links valve body 120A and valve body 120B is formed by a drive-side gear 200, which serves as a drive-side gear, and a driven-side gear 202, which serves as a driven-side gear.

[0157] Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the transmission mechanism 140 of the valve device 101 in the second modified example. Figure 20 It is used to explain and Figure 19 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140. Figure 21 It is used to explain and Figure 20 A diagram illustrating the actions of the successive transmission mechanism 140.

[0158] [Driven gear]

[0159] The driven gear 202 has teeth 202a formed on a portion of its outer periphery as driven teeth. The driven gear 202 is connected to the rotation shaft of the valve body 120A. The driven gear 202 rotates integrally with the valve body 120A.

[0160] Similarly, the driven gear 202 has a connecting rod 202b extending radially outward from a portion of the outer periphery of the un-toothed gear 202a and a pin 202c protruding axially from the connecting rod 202b.

[0161] [Drive-side gear]

[0162] The drive-side gear 200 is connected to the output shaft of the actuator 160. The drive-side gear 200 rotates under the driving force of the actuator 160. The drive-side gear 200 is connected to the rotation shaft of the valve body 120B. The drive-side gear 200 and the valve body 120B rotate as a unit.

[0163] The drive-side gear 200 has teeth 200a formed on a portion of its outer periphery as drive teeth. The teeth 200a of the drive-side gear 200 mesh with the teeth 202a of the driven-side gear 202. The drive-side gear 200 drives the driven-side gear 202.

[0164] Similarly, the drive-side gear 200 has an insertion groove 200b into which the pin 202c of the driven-side gear 202 is radially inserted from its outer periphery when engaged with the driven-side gear 202. The drive-side gear 200 has a cam groove 200c that is continuous with the insertion groove 200b and is formed in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis of the drive-side gear 200. When the engagement between the teeth 200a of the drive-side gear 200 and the teeth 202a of the driven-side gear 202 is disengaged, the pin 202c is inserted into the cam groove 200c, thus restricting the radial movement of the pin 202c while allowing circumferential movement.

[0165] like Figure 19 As shown, in the first mode, if the driving side gear 200 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the driven side gear 202 will rotate 90 degrees counterclockwise, thus becoming... Figure 20 The state shown indicates that the valve device 101 changes from the first mode to the second mode.

[0166] At this time, the meshing of teeth 200a of the driving side gear 200 and teeth 202a of the driven side gear 202 is disengaged. Furthermore, the pin 202c of the driven side gear 202 is inserted radially from the outer periphery of the driving side gear 200 along the insertion groove 200b and reaches the cam groove 200c. Thus, the radial movement of the pin 202c in the driving side gear 200 is restricted while circumferential movement is permitted.

[0167] Next, as Figures 20 to 21 As shown, even if the driving gear 200 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise, the driven gear 202 will not rotate, thus becoming Figure 21 The state shown. As a result, valve device 101 changes from the second mode to the third mode.

[0168] <Effects>

[0169] Even in the second variation above, when the meshing between the driving gear 200 and the driven gear 202 is disengaged, it is possible to suppress the unexpected rotation of the driven gear 202, thus achieving the same effect as described above.

[0170] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown, compared to the case where the transmission mechanism 140 is composed of a drive gear 141, a first driven gear 142, and a second driven gear 143, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0171] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the above embodiments are only a part of the applicable examples of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configurations of the above embodiments.

[0172] (Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram)

[0173] 101: Valve assembly; 120A: Valve body; 120B: Valve body; 140: Transmission mechanism; 141: Drive gear; 141a: Gear; 142: First driven gear; 142a: Gear; 142a-1: Upper gear; 142a-2: Lower gear; 142d: Insertion groove; 142f: Cam groove; 142g: Abutment part; 143e: Entry part; 143: Second driven gear; 143a: Gear; 143b: Connecting rod; 143c: Pin; 160: Actuator; 200: Drive-side gear; 200a: Gear; 200b: Insertion groove; 200c: Cam groove; 202: Driven-side gear; 202a: Gear; 202b: Connecting rod; 202c: Pin; C1: First central shaft; C2: Second central shaft; KL: Imaginary straight line.

Claims

1. A valve device, characterized in that, have: A first valve body that rotates about a first central axis; a second valve body that rotates about a second central axis parallel to the first central axis; and a switching mechanism that links the first valve body and the second valve body to switch the flow path. The aforementioned switching mechanism includes: a drive-side gear that rotates in conjunction with the first valve body under the driving force of the actuator; and a driven-side gear that rotates in conjunction with the second valve body due to the rotation of the drive-side gear. The driven gear described above has: a driven tooth portion formed on a portion of its outer periphery; a connecting rod extending radially outward beyond the driven tooth portion; and a pin protruding axially from the connecting rod. The aforementioned drive-side gear has: a drive tooth portion that meshes with the driven tooth portion; an insertion groove that allows the pin to be inserted radially from the outer periphery when the drive tooth portion and the driven tooth portion are meshed; and a cam groove that is continuous with the insertion groove and is formed in an arc shape centered on the rotation axis of the drive-side gear, allowing the pin to be inserted when the meshing of the drive tooth portion and the driven tooth portion is disengaged, thereby restricting the radial movement of the pin while allowing circumferential movement.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, While the aforementioned drive-side gear meshes with the main drive gear that rotates integrally with the first valve body under the driving force of the aforementioned actuator, the aforementioned drive-side gear also meshes with the aforementioned driven-side gear that rotates integrally with the aforementioned second valve body, thereby causing the aforementioned main drive gear and the aforementioned driven-side gear to move in tandem.

3. The valve device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drive-side gear has an abutment portion formed on the edge of the insertion groove, which abuts against the pin passing through the insertion groove and drives the driven-side gear under the rotation of the drive-side gear.

4. The valve device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pitch circle diameters of the aforementioned driving side gear, driven side gear, and main driving gear are the same.

5. The valve device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The rotation shafts of the drive-side gear, the driven-side gear, and the main drive gear are arranged on the same straight line.

6. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The aforementioned drive-side gear is a partial gear. In the area where the aforementioned drive teeth are not provided, there is a recessed portion in the direction of the aforementioned first central axis and a stepped surface formed at the bottom of the aforementioned recessed portion. The aforementioned insertion groove and the aforementioned cam groove are formed in the aforementioned stepped surface. The aforementioned driven gear is a partial gear, and the aforementioned connecting rod extends radially outward from the outer periphery of the never-provided driven gear portion. When the driving teeth and the driven teeth are engaged, the connecting rod of the driven side gear enters the recess and the pin is inserted into the insertion groove.

7. The valve device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The aforementioned drive-side gear is a partial gear. In the area where the aforementioned drive teeth are not provided, there is a recessed portion in the direction of the aforementioned first central axis and a stepped surface formed at the bottom of the aforementioned recessed portion. The aforementioned insertion groove and the aforementioned cam groove are formed in the aforementioned stepped surface. The aforementioned driven gear is a partial gear, and the aforementioned connecting rod extends radially outward from the outer periphery of the never-provided driven gear portion. With the driving teeth meshing with the driven teeth, the connecting rod of the driven gear enters the recess and the pin is inserted into the insertion slot. The aforementioned drive-side gear has a wide-area tooth portion formed on one side of the first central axis direction bounded by the aforementioned stepped surface, and is wider in the circumferential direction than the aforementioned drive tooth portion. The aforementioned wide-area tooth portion meshes with the aforementioned main drive gear.

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