Valve device

Abstract

Provided is a small valve device capable of suppressing leakage of refrigerant. A valve device (5) has a valve assembly (10) and a receiver-dryer (20). The valve assembly (10) has a valve body (100) having a plurality of refrigerant passages, and a plurality of valve units mounted to the valve body (100). The receiver-dryer (20) has a cylindrical receiver-dryer body (210) capable of storing refrigerant, and a cover (220) joined to an upper end portion of the receiver-dryer body (210). The cover (220) is disposed in contact with the valve body (100).

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional refrigeration cycle apparatus. The refrigeration cycle apparatus of Patent Document 1 includes a refrigerant circuit switching unit comprising a first to a third on / off valve. The refrigerant circuit switching unit switches between a first circuit and a second circuit. In the first circuit, refrigerant flowing from the indoor condenser flows sequentially to a liquid collector dryer, a heating expansion valve, and an outdoor heat exchanger. In the second circuit, refrigerant flowing from the outdoor heat exchanger flows sequentially to a liquid collector dryer, a refrigeration expansion valve, and an indoor evaporator. In the first circuit, a liquid collector dryer is positioned upstream of the heating expansion valve, and in the second circuit, a liquid collector dryer is positioned upstream of the refrigeration expansion valve. The liquid collector dryer stores the remaining portion of the liquid refrigerant condensed by the indoor condenser. This results in the refrigerant flowing from either the outdoor heat exchanger (which functions as an evaporator) or the indoor evaporator having superheat.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-176824

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In the aforementioned refrigeration cycle unit, the indoor condenser, the first on / off valve, and the second on / off valve are connected via tee fittings and piping. Additionally, the liquid collector, dryer, and other components are connected in the same or similar manner. Therefore, the numerous connection points in the refrigeration cycle unit increase the likelihood of refrigerant leakage. Furthermore, the refrigeration cycle unit is larger due to the interconnection of components via tee fittings and piping. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a small valve device capable of suppressing refrigerant leakage.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the valve device involved in this invention is,

[0011] A valve device having a valve assembly and a liquid collector dryer, wherein,

[0012] The valve assembly includes: a valve body having multiple refrigerant passages; and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body.

[0013] The liquid collector dryer has: a cylindrical liquid collector dryer body capable of storing refrigerant; and a cover that engages with the upper end of the liquid collector dryer body.

[0014] The cover is disposed in contact with the valve body.

[0015] In this invention, preferably,

[0016] The cover has a threaded hole.

[0017] The valve body has a through hole, which is configured correspondingly to the threaded hole.

[0018] The cover is bolted to the valve body, the bolt passing through the through hole and engaging with the threaded hole.

[0019] In this invention, preferably,

[0020] The cover has two threaded holes and two connection holes that communicate with the inner space of the liquid collector dryer body.

[0021] The line segment connecting the centers of the two threaded holes intersects the line segment connecting the centers of the two connecting holes.

[0022] In this invention, preferably,

[0023] The valve device has a cylindrical connector component.

[0024] The connector component has a first part and a second part that are connected in the axial direction.

[0025] The first part is disposed in the connection hole.

[0026] The second part is configured in the refrigerant passage.

[0027] In this invention, preferably,

[0028] The plurality of valve units includes a check valve unit.

[0029] The check valve unit is configured in the refrigerant passage where the connector component is located.

[0030] The connector component is a retaining component that holds the check valve unit in place.

[0031] In this invention, preferably,

[0032] The outer surface of the valve body is provided with a first indoor opening, a second indoor opening, a first outdoor opening, a second outdoor opening, a first intermediate opening, and a second intermediate opening.

[0033] The plurality of refrigerant passages include:

[0034] A first refrigerant passage, which connects the first indoor side opening and the second intermediate opening;

[0035] A second refrigerant passage connects the first indoor opening and the second outdoor opening;

[0036] A third refrigerant passage connects the first intermediate opening and the second refrigerant passage;

[0037] A fourth refrigerant passage, which connects the first outdoor opening and the second intermediate opening; and

[0038] A fifth refrigerant passage connects the first intermediate opening and the second indoor opening.

[0039] The plurality of valve units include:

[0040] The first on / off valve unit is capable of opening and closing the first refrigerant passage;

[0041] The second on / off valve unit is capable of opening and closing the first passage portion between the first indoor side opening in the second refrigerant passage and the connection portion connecting the second refrigerant passage and the third refrigerant passage.

[0042] A flow regulating valve unit that can steplessly change the passage area of ​​the second passage portion between the second outdoor opening in the second refrigerant passage and the connection part connecting the second refrigerant passage and the third refrigerant passage;

[0043] A first check valve unit, which allows refrigerant flow from the first intermediate opening in the third refrigerant passage to the second refrigerant passage, and prohibits refrigerant flow from the second refrigerant passage to the first intermediate opening; and

[0044] The second check valve unit allows the flow of refrigerant in the fourth refrigerant passage from the first outdoor opening to the second intermediate opening, and prohibits the flow of refrigerant from the second intermediate opening to the first outdoor opening.

[0045] In this invention, preferably,

[0046] A third chamber opening is provided on the outer surface of the valve body.

[0047] The plurality of refrigerant passages includes a sixth refrigerant passage that connects the first outdoor opening and the third indoor opening.

[0048] The plurality of valve units includes a third on / off valve unit, which is capable of opening and closing the sixth refrigerant passage.

[0049] In this invention, preferably,

[0050] The outer surface of the valve body has a first plane, a second plane, and a third plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane, and the third plane is parallel to the second plane.

[0051] The first plane is provided with a second mounting hole and a third mounting hole that are spaced apart along the length of the first plane.

[0052] The second plane is provided with a first mounting hole and a fourth mounting hole arranged at intervals in a direction orthogonal to the length direction.

[0053] A first valve port, which is opened and closed by the first on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the first mounting hole.

[0054] A second valve port, which is opened and closed by the second on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the second mounting hole.

[0055] A third valve port, which is opened and closed by the third on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the third mounting hole.

[0056] A fourth valve port, whose opening area can be infinitely varied by the flow regulating valve unit, is disposed inside the fourth mounting hole.

[0057] The through hole extends from the second plane to the third plane.

[0058] When viewed from the normal direction of the first plane, the position of the through hole along its length is located between the second valve port and the third valve port.

[0059] When viewed from the normal direction of the second plane, the position of the through hole in the direction orthogonal to the length direction is located between the first valve port and the fourth valve port.

[0060] In this invention, preferably,

[0061] The second refrigerant passage includes the second valve port and the fourth valve port.

[0062] The portion of the second refrigerant passage between the second valve port and the fourth valve port has an L-shape.

[0063] The effects of the invention

[0064] The valve device according to the present invention includes a valve assembly and a liquid collector dryer. The valve assembly includes: a valve body having multiple refrigerant passages; and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body. The liquid collector dryer includes: a cylindrical liquid collector dryer body capable of storing refrigerant; and a cover that engages with the upper end of the liquid collector dryer body. The cover is disposed in contact with the valve body. Therefore, the valve assembly and the liquid collector dryer can be arranged as close as possible to each other. Thus, the valve device can be miniaturized. Furthermore, the valve device includes: a valve body having multiple refrigerant passages; and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body. Therefore, refrigerant leakage at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and the valve units can be suppressed, and the number of connecting parts can be reduced. Attached Figure Description

[0065] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic structure of an air conditioning device having a valve device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the flow of refrigerant in the heating mode of the air conditioning unit.

[0067] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the refrigerant flow of the air conditioning unit in cooling mode.

[0068] Figure 4 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the refrigerant flow of the air conditioning unit in dehumidification and heating mode.

[0069] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The front view of the valve device of the air conditioning unit.

[0070] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the valve components of the valve device.

[0071] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Another perspective view of the valve assembly.

[0072] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 The front view of the valve assembly.

[0073] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Right side view of the valve assembly.

[0074] Figure 10 yes Figure 6 Left side view of the valve assembly.

[0075] Figure 11 yes Figure 6 A top view of the valve assembly.

[0076] Figure 12 yes Figure 6 Bottom view of the valve assembly.

[0077] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 Rear view of the valve assembly.

[0078] Figure 14 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0079] Figure 15 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the BB line.

[0080] Figure 16 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the CC line.

[0081] Figure 17 It is along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the DD line.

[0082] Figure 18 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the EE line.

[0083] Figure 19 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the FF line.

[0084] Figure 20 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the GG line.

[0085] Figure 21 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the HH line.

[0086] Figure 22 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the JJ line.

[0087] Figure 23 yes Figure 6 A top view of the valve body of the valve assembly.

[0088] Figure 24 yes Figure 6 The right-side view of the valve body of the valve assembly.

[0089] Figure 25 yes Figure 6A cross-sectional view of the first on / off valve unit of the valve assembly.

[0090] Figure 26 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the second on / off valve unit of the valve assembly.

[0091] Figure 27 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the flow control valve unit of the valve assembly.

[0092] Figure 28 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the liquid collector and dryer of the valve device.

[0093] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 Front view of the liquid collector dryer.

[0094] Figure 30 yes Figure 28 A top view of the liquid collector dryer.

[0095] Figure 31 This is an explanation Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the valve assembly (with the liquid collector and dryer installed in front of the valve body).

[0096] Figure 32 This is an explanation Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the valve assembly (with the liquid collector and dryer installed on the valve body). Detailed Implementation

[0097] The following is for reference Figures 1 to 32 A valve device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0098] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing a schematic structure of an air conditioning device having a valve device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the flow of refrigerant in the heating mode of the air conditioning unit. Figure 3 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the refrigerant flow of the air conditioning unit in cooling mode. Figure 4 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows the refrigerant flow of the air conditioning unit in dehumidification and heating mode. Figure 5 yes Figure 1 The front view of the valve device of the air conditioning unit. Figures 6 to 13 yes Figure 5 The valve assembly of the valve device includes a perspective view, another perspective view, a front view, a right side view, a left side view, a top view, a bottom view, and a rear view. Figures 14-17 It is along Figure 9 The sectional view along line AA, the sectional view along line BB, the sectional view along line CC, and the sectional view along line DD. Figures 18-22 It is along Figure 8 Sectional views along the EE line, the FF line, the GG line, the HH line, and the JJ line. Figure 23 , Figure 24 yes Figure 6 The top view and right side view of the valve body of the valve assembly. Figures 25-27 yes Figure 6 The valve assembly includes a cross-sectional view of a first on / off valve unit, a cross-sectional view of a second on / off valve unit, and a cross-sectional view of a flow regulating valve unit. Figures 28-30 yes Figure 5 The valve device includes a perspective view, a front view, and a top view of the liquid collector and dryer. Figure 31 , Figure 32 This is an explanation Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the manufacturing method of the valve device. Figure 31 This indicates that the liquid collector dryer is installed in front of the valve body. Figure 32 This indicates the state after the liquid collector / dryer is installed on the valve body. In each diagram, the X direction indicated by arrow X is the left-right direction, the Y direction indicated by arrow Y is the front-back direction, and the Z direction indicated by arrow Z is the up-down direction. The side with the "X" in arrow X is the right side, the side with the "Y" in arrow Y is the rear side, and the side with the "Z" in arrow Z is the top side.

[0100] Air conditioning unit 1 is, for example, a vehicle air conditioning unit installed in a vehicle and used to cool or heat the air supplied to the vehicle compartment.

[0101] like Figure 1 As shown, the air conditioning unit 1 includes a valve device 5, a compressor 30, an indoor condenser 40, an indoor evaporator 50, an outdoor heat exchanger 60, and a flow regulating valve 70.

[0102] The valve device 5 has a valve assembly 10 and a liquid collector dryer 20.

[0103] like Figures 5 to 27 As shown, the valve assembly 10 includes a valve body 100, a first on / off valve unit 300, a second on / off valve unit 400, a third on / off valve unit 500, a flow regulating valve unit 600, a first check valve unit 700, and a second check valve unit 800.

[0104] The valve body 100 is formed into a cuboid shape, for example, by pressing an aluminum alloy. The valve body 100 has a front surface 101, a back surface 102, a left side surface 103, a right side surface 104, an upper surface 105, and a lower surface 106. Each surface is an outer surface of the valve body 100 and is planar. The right side surface 104 is a first planar surface. The upper surface 105 is a second planar surface connected to the right side surface 104 at a right angle. The lower surface 106 is a third planar surface connected to the right side surface 104 at a right angle and parallel to the upper surface 105. The left side surface 103 is a fourth planar surface connected to the upper surface 105 at a right angle and parallel to the right side surface 104.

[0105] A first interior opening 111 is formed on the front 101. Figure 6 , Figure 8 A first outdoor opening 121 is formed on the rear side 102. Figure 7 , Figure 13 A second indoor opening 112, a third indoor opening 113, and a second outdoor opening 122 are formed on the left side 103. Figure 7 , Figure 10 A first intermediate opening 131 and a second intermediate opening 132 are formed on the lower surface 106. Figure 12 ).

[0106] The valve body 100 has multiple refrigerant passages formed by machining. Specifically, the valve body 100 has a first refrigerant passage 151, a second refrigerant passage 152, a third refrigerant passage 153, a fourth refrigerant passage 154, a fifth refrigerant passage 155, and a sixth refrigerant passage 156.

[0107] The first refrigerant passage 151 connects to the first indoor side opening 111 and the second intermediate opening 132. A first on / off valve unit 300 is configured in the first refrigerant passage 151.

[0108] The second refrigerant passage 152 connects to the first indoor opening 111 and the second outdoor opening 122. A third refrigerant passage 153 is connected to the second refrigerant passage 152. A second on / off valve unit 400 is configured in the first passage portion 152a between the first indoor opening 111 and the connection portion 152c connecting the second refrigerant passage 152 and the third refrigerant passage 153. A flow regulating valve unit 600 is configured in the second passage portion 152b between the second outdoor opening 122 and the connection portion 152c in the second refrigerant passage 152.

[0109] The third refrigerant passage 153 connects to the first intermediate opening 131 and the second refrigerant passage 152. A first check valve unit 700 is configured in the third refrigerant passage 153.

[0110] The fourth refrigerant passage 154 connects to the first outdoor opening 121 and the second intermediate opening 132. A second check valve unit 800 is configured in the fourth refrigerant passage 154.

[0111] The fifth refrigerant passage 155 connects to the first intermediate opening 131 and the second indoor side opening 112.

[0112] The sixth refrigerant passage 156 connects the first outdoor opening 121 and the third indoor opening 113. A third on / off valve unit 500 is configured in the sixth refrigerant passage 156.

[0113] In addition, the valve body 100 has a first through hole 171 and a second through hole 172. Figure 8 , Figure 19 The first through hole 171 and the second through hole 172 extend linearly from the upper surface 105 to the lower surface 106.

[0114] The first on / off valve unit 300 is disposed on the right side 104 of the upper surface 105. The first on / off valve unit 300 can open and close the first refrigerant passage 151 (that is, it can change the passage area to 0 or a larger area than 0).

[0115] The first on / off valve unit 300, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a pilot-operated on / off valve. The first on / off valve unit 300 is normally closed. A first mounting hole 161 is formed on the upper surface 105 of the valve body 100. The first on / off valve unit 300 is disposed in the first mounting hole 161. The valve body 100 has a first valve chamber 311, a first valve port 312 opening in the first valve chamber 311, and a first valve seat 313 surrounding the first valve port 312 inside the first mounting hole 161. The first valve chamber 311 and the first valve port 312 are part of the first refrigerant passage 151.

[0116] like Figure 25 As shown, the first on / off valve unit 300 has a main valve core 320 and a valve core drive part 330.

[0117] The main valve core 320 has a circular plate shape. The main valve core 320 has a pilot passage 325 and a pressure equalization passage 326. When the main valve core 320 contacts the first valve seat 313, the first valve port 312 is closed. When the main valve core 320 leaves the first valve seat 313, the first valve port 312 is opened.

[0118] The valve core drive unit 330 includes a retainer 331, a housing 332, a plunger 333, an electromagnetic coil 334, a pilot valve core 335, and a fixed iron core 336.

[0119] The retainer 331 has a cylindrical shape. The retainer 331 engages with the first mounting hole 161 of the valve body 100. The main valve core 320 is movably disposed inside the retainer 331. The main valve core 320 divides a first valve chamber 311 and a back pressure chamber 314 inside the retainer 331. A pilot passage 325 connects the back pressure chamber 314 and the first valve port 312. A pressure equalization passage 326 connects the first valve chamber 311 and the back pressure chamber 314. An opening spring 337 is disposed between the main valve core 320 and the retainer 331. The opening spring 337 is a compression coil spring. The opening spring 337 presses the main valve core 320 upwards.

[0120] The housing 332 has a cylindrical shape. The lower end of the housing 332 is disposed inside the retainer 331 and engages with the retainer 331. A cylindrical fixed iron core 336 is disposed inside the upper end of the housing 332. The fixed iron core 336 engages with the upper end of the housing 332. A spring bearing member 336a is disposed on the lower end face of the fixed iron core 336.

[0121] The plunger 333 has a cylindrical shape. The plunger 333 is movably disposed inside the housing 332. A spring receiving hole 333a is formed on the upper end face of the plunger 333. A plunger spring 338 is disposed between the bottom surface 333b of the spring receiving hole 333a and the spring bearing member 336a of the fixed iron core 336. The plunger spring 338 is a compression helical spring. The plunger spring 338 presses the plunger 333 downwards.

[0122] The electromagnetic coil 334 has a cylindrical shape. A housing 332 is disposed inside the electromagnetic coil 334. The electromagnetic coil 334 magnetizes the fixed iron core 336 and the plunger 333.

[0123] The pilot valve core 335 has a downward-facing conical shape. The pilot valve core 335 is integrally connected to the lower end face of the plunger 333. The pilot valve core 335 is disposed in the back pressure chamber 314. The pilot valve core 335 opens and closes the pilot passage 325.

[0124] In the first on / off valve unit 300, when the solenoid coil 334 is not energized, the plunger 333 is pressed down by the plunger spring 338 and moves downward. The pilot valve core 335 also moves downward, closing the pilot passage 325 and pressing the main valve core 320 downward. The main valve core 320 contacts the first valve seat 313, and the first valve port 312 is closed. When the first valve port 312 is closed, the flow of refrigerant from the first valve chamber 311 and the back pressure chamber 314 to the first valve port 312 is cut off. The refrigerant remains in the first valve chamber 311 and the back pressure chamber 314. The main valve core 320 is pressed against the first valve seat 313 by the refrigerant.

[0125] In the first on / off valve unit 300, when the solenoid coil 334 is energized, the plunger 333 moves upward by magnetic force. The pilot valve core 335 also moves upward, opening the pilot passage 325. The refrigerant in the back pressure chamber 314 flows to the first valve port 312 via the pilot passage 325, and the refrigerant pressure in the back pressure chamber 314 is lower than the refrigerant pressure in the first valve chamber 311. Additionally, the valve opening spring 337 presses the main valve core 320 upward. As a result, the main valve core 320 disengages from the first valve seat 313, opening the first valve port 312.

[0126] The second on / off valve unit 400 is disposed on the right side 104 near the front 101. The second on / off valve unit 400 is capable of opening and closing the first passage portion 152a of the second refrigerant passage 152 (i.e., capable of changing the passage area to 0 or an area larger than 0).

[0127] The second on / off valve unit 400, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a pilot-operated on / off valve. The second on / off valve unit 400 is of the normally open type. A second mounting hole 162 is formed on the right side 104 of the valve body 100. The second on / off valve unit 400 is disposed in the second mounting hole 162. The valve body 100 has a second valve chamber 411, a second valve port 412 opening in the second valve chamber 411, and a second valve seat 413 surrounding the second valve port 412 inside the second mounting hole 162. A refrigerant passage 151a extends from the second valve chamber 411 and the inner opening 111 of the first chamber to the second valve chamber 411. Figure 18 , Figure 22 It is part of the first refrigerant passage 151 and also part of the second refrigerant passage 152. The second valve port 412 is part of the second refrigerant passage 152.

[0128] like Figure 26 As shown, the second on / off valve unit 400 has a main valve core 420 and a valve core drive part 430.

[0129] The main valve core 420 integrally comprises a body 421, a first flange 422, and a second flange 423. The body 421 is cylindrical. The first flange 422 is annular. The inner periphery of the first flange 422 is connected to the right end of the body 421. The second flange 423 is annular. The inner periphery of the second flange 423 is connected to the left end of the body 421. The body 421 has a pilot passage 425. The first flange 422 has a pressure equalization passage 426. A gasket in the shape of an annular plate is disposed on the second flange 423. The second valve port 412 is closed by the main valve core 420 (specifically, the gasket of the second flange 423) contacting the second valve seat 413, and the second valve port 412 is opened by the main valve core 420 moving away from the second valve seat 413. An opening spring 437 is disposed between the first flange portion 422 of the main valve core 420 and the valve body 100. The opening spring 437 is a compression helical spring. The opening spring 437 presses the first flange portion 422 of the main valve core 420 to the right.

[0130] The valve core drive unit 430 includes a fixed iron core 431, a housing 432, a plunger 433, an electromagnetic coil 434, a pilot valve core 435, and a valve shaft 436.

[0131] The fixed core 431 integrally comprises a large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a and a small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b. The large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a is threaded onto the inner circumferential surface of the second mounting hole 162 of the valve body 100. The small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b is coaxially arranged with the large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a. The outer diameter of the small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b is smaller than the inner diameter of the large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a. The small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b protrudes from the right side face 104. A first flange portion 422 is movably disposed inside the large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a in the left-right direction. The first flange portion 422 divides the second valve chamber 411 and the back pressure chamber 414 inside the large-diameter cylindrical portion 431a. A pilot passage 425 connects the back pressure chamber 414 and the second valve port 412. A pressure equalization passage 426 connects the second valve chamber 411 and the back pressure chamber 414.

[0132] The housing 432 has a cylindrical shape that is open at the left end and closed at the right end. A small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b of a fixed iron core 431 is disposed on the inner side of the left end of the housing 432. The left end of the housing 432 is engaged with the fixed iron core 431.

[0133] The plunger 433 has a cylindrical shape. The plunger 433 is movably disposed inside the housing 432. A plunger spring 438 is disposed between the plunger 433 and the fixed iron core 431. The plunger spring 438 is a compression helical spring. The plunger spring 438 presses the plunger 433 to the right.

[0134] The electromagnetic coil 434 has a cylindrical shape. A housing 432 is disposed inside the electromagnetic coil 434. The electromagnetic coil 434 magnetizes the fixed iron core 431 and the plunger 433.

[0135] The pilot valve core 435 is integrally connected to the left end of the valve shaft 436. The pilot valve core 435 is disposed in the back pressure chamber 414. The pilot valve core 435 is connected to the plunger 433 via the valve shaft 436. A circular plate-shaped gasket is disposed in the pilot valve core 435. The pilot valve core 435 opens and closes the pilot passage 425.

[0136] The valve shaft 436 has an elongated cylindrical shape. The right end of the valve shaft 436 is fixed to the left end of the plunger 433. The valve shaft 436 is disposed inside the small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b of the fixed iron core 431. The valve shaft 436 is supported by the small-diameter cylindrical portion 431b so that it can move in the left-right direction.

[0137] In the second on / off valve unit 400, when the solenoid coil 434 is energized, the plunger 433 moves to the left by magnetic force. The pilot valve core 435 also moves to the left, closing the pilot passage 425 and pressing the main valve core 420 to the left. The main valve core 420 contacts the second valve seat 413, and the second valve port 412 closes. When the second valve port 412 is closed, the flow of refrigerant from the second valve chamber 411 and the back pressure chamber 414 to the second valve port 412 is cut off. The refrigerant remains in the second valve chamber 411 and the back pressure chamber 414. The main valve core 420 is pressed against the second valve seat 413 by the refrigerant.

[0138] In the second on / off valve unit 400, when the solenoid coil 434 is not energized, the plunger 433 is pressed by the plunger spring 438 and moves to the right. The pilot valve core 435 also moves to the right, opening the pilot passage 425. The refrigerant in the back pressure chamber 414 flows to the second valve port 412 via the pilot passage 425, and the refrigerant pressure in the back pressure chamber 414 is lower than the refrigerant pressure in the second valve chamber 411. Additionally, the valve opening spring 437 presses the main valve core 420 to the right. As a result, the main valve core 420 disengages from the second valve seat 413, opening the second valve port 412.

[0139] The third on / off valve unit 500 is located on the right side 104 near the back side 102. The third on / off valve unit 500 can open and close the sixth refrigerant passage 156 (i.e., can change the passage area to 0 or a larger area).

[0140] The third on / off valve unit 500, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a pilot-operated on / off valve. The third on / off valve unit 500 is of the normally open type. A third mounting hole 163 is formed on the right side 104 of the valve body 100. The third on / off valve unit 500 is disposed in the third mounting hole 163. The valve body 100 has a third valve chamber 511, a third valve port 512 opening in the third valve chamber 511, and a third valve seat 513 surrounding the third valve port 512 inside the third mounting hole 163. A refrigerant passage 154a extends from the third valve chamber 511 and the outer opening 131 of the first exterior to the third valve chamber 511. Figure 18 , Figure 22 It is part of the fourth refrigerant passage 154 and also part of the sixth refrigerant passage 156. The third valve port 512 is part of the sixth refrigerant passage 156.

[0141] The third on / off valve unit 500 has a main valve core 520 and a valve core drive section 530. The main valve core 520 has a pilot passage 525 in its body. The fixed iron core of the valve core drive section 530 is threadedly mounted to the inner circumferential surface of the third mounting hole 163 of the valve body 100. In the third on / off valve unit 500, when the solenoid coil of the valve core drive section 530 is energized, the main valve core 520 contacts the third valve seat 513, and the third valve port 512 is closed. In the third on / off valve unit 500, when the solenoid coil of the valve core drive section 530 is not energized, the main valve core 520 moves away from the third valve seat 513, and the third valve port 512 is opened. Since the third on / off valve unit 500 has the same (including substantially the same) structure as the second on / off valve unit 400, detailed description is omitted.

[0142] The flow regulating valve unit 600 is disposed on the upper surface 105 near the left side 103. The flow regulating valve unit 600 can steplessly change the passage area of ​​the second passage portion 152b of the second refrigerant passage 152.

[0143] The flow regulating valve unit 600, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a flow regulating valve. A fourth mounting hole 164 is formed on the upper surface 105 of the valve body 100. The flow regulating valve unit 600 is disposed in the fourth mounting hole 164. Inside the fourth mounting hole 164, the valve body 100 has a fourth valve chamber 611, a fourth valve port 612 opening in the fourth valve chamber 611, and a fourth valve seat 613 surrounding the fourth valve port 612. The fourth valve chamber 611 and the fourth valve port 612 are part of the second refrigerant passage 152.

[0144] like Figure 27 As shown, the flow regulating valve unit 600 has a valve core 620 and a valve core drive part 630.

[0145] The valve core 620 has a support 621, a valve portion 622, a spring support portion 623, and a ball support portion 624. The support 621 is cylindrical. The valve portion 622 is disposed at the lower end of the support 621. The valve portion 622 is annular. The valve portion 622 protrudes radially outward from the outer periphery of the support 621. The spring support portion 623 is disposed at the upper end of the support 621. The spring support portion 623 has a flange 623a protruding radially outward. The ball support portion 624 has a circular plate portion and a protrusion formed on the lower surface of the circular plate portion. The protrusion of the ball support portion 624 engages with a hole formed in the spring support portion 623. The valve portion 622 moves forward and backward relative to the fourth valve port 612, thereby continuously changing the opening area of ​​the fourth valve port 612 (i.e., the passage area of ​​the second passage portion 152b of the second refrigerant passage 152).

[0146] The valve core drive unit 630 moves the valve core 620 in the vertical direction, causing the valve part 622 to move forward and backward relative to the fourth valve port 612. The valve core drive unit 630 includes a cage 640, a housing 650, a rotor 660, a planetary gear mechanism 670, a drive shaft 682, a ball 684, and a stator unit 690.

[0147] The retainer 640 is made of a metal such as aluminum alloy. The retainer 640 has a cylindrical shape. The retainer 640 is threaded onto the inner circumferential surface of the fourth mounting hole 164. A cylindrical drive shaft support member 642 is disposed on the inner side of the upper part of the retainer 640. An internal thread 642c is formed on the lower part of the inner circumferential surface of the drive shaft support member 642. A valve core support member 644 is disposed between the lower end of the retainer 640 and the valve body 100. The valve core support member 644 has a cylindrical shape. The valve core support member 644 has a valve core support hole 644a extending vertically. The support column 621 of the valve core 620 is disposed inside the valve core support hole 644a. An opening spring 646 is disposed between the flange 623a and the valve core support member 644. The opening spring 646 is a compression coil spring. The opening spring 646 presses the valve core 620 upwards.

[0148] The housing 650 has a cylindrical shape with an opening at the lower end and a closed upper end. The lower end of the housing 650 is engaged with the retainer 640 via an annular member 651.

[0149] The rotor 660 has a cylindrical shape. The outer diameter of the rotor 660 is smaller than the inner diameter of the housing 650. The rotor 660 is rotatably disposed inside the housing 650. A circular plate-shaped connecting member 662 is joined to the upper end of the rotor 660. The connecting member 662 closes the upper end of the rotor 660. The rotor shaft 663 passes through the center of the connecting member 662. The rotor 660 is connected to the rotor shaft 663 via the connecting member 662.

[0150] The planetary gear mechanism 670 includes a fixed ring gear 671, a sun gear 672, multiple planetary gears 673, a gear carrier 674, an output gear 675, and an output shaft 676. The sun gear 672 is coaxially coupled to the connecting member 662. The sun gear 672 rotates together with the rotor 660 and the connecting member 662. The rotation of the sun gear 672 is reduced in speed by the fixed ring gear 671, the multiple planetary gears 673, the gear carrier 674, and the output gear 675, and transmitted to the output shaft 676. The output shaft 676 is disposed inside the drive shaft support member 642.

[0151] The drive shaft 682 has a cylindrical portion 682a and a flat portion 682b. The flat portion 682b is connected to the upper end of the cylindrical portion 682a. The cylindrical portion 682a and the flat portion 682b are integrally formed. An external thread 682c is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion 682a. The external thread 682c engages with the internal thread 642c of the drive shaft support member 642. The flat portion 682b is movably disposed inside the slit 676a of the output shaft 676. The drive shaft 682 rotates via the output shaft 676 and moves vertically via threaded feed. A ball 684 is disposed between the drive shaft 682 and the ball receiving portion 624 of the valve core 620.

[0152] The stator unit 690 has a cylindrical shape. A housing 650 is disposed inside the stator unit 690. The stator unit 690 has a stator (not shown). The stator and rotor 660 of the stator unit 690 constitute a stepper motor.

[0153] In the flow control valve unit 600, the stator of the stator unit 690 is energized, causing the rotor 660 to rotate in one direction. The rotation of the rotor 660 is reduced by the planetary gear mechanism 670, which in turn rotates the drive shaft 682 via the output shaft 676. When the drive shaft 682 rotates, it moves downward through a threaded feed action. The drive shaft 682 presses the valve core 620 downward via the ball 684. As the valve core 620 moves downward, the opening area of ​​the fourth valve port 612 decreases. In this embodiment, the minimum opening area of ​​the fourth valve port 612 is 0, and the fourth valve port 612 is in a fully closed state.

[0154] In the flow regulating valve unit 600, the stator of the stator unit 690 is energized, causing the rotor 660 to rotate in the opposite direction. The rotation of the rotor 660 is slowed down by the planetary gear mechanism 670, which in turn rotates the drive shaft 682 via the output shaft 676. When the drive shaft 682 rotates, it moves upward through the threaded feed action. The valve core 620, which is pressed against the valve opening spring 646, moves upward, increasing the opening area of ​​the fourth valve port 612. When the fourth valve port 612 is fully open, the refrigerant flows through it without expansion.

[0155] The second refrigerant passage 152 includes a second valve port 412 and a fourth valve port 612. The second refrigerant passage 152 has a portion extending to the left from the second valve port 412 and a portion extending downwards from the fourth valve port 612, these portions being connected at right angles. That is, the portion of the second refrigerant passage 152 between the second valve port 412 and the fourth valve port 612 has an L-shape. Figure 14 ).

[0156] A first check valve unit 700 is disposed in a third refrigerant passage 153. The first check valve unit 700 allows the flow of refrigerant from a first intermediate opening 131 in the third refrigerant passage 153 to a second refrigerant passage 152, and prohibits the flow of refrigerant from the second refrigerant passage 152 to the first intermediate opening 131.

[0157] The first check valve unit 700, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a check valve. The valve body 100 has a valve seat 713 in the shape of an annular cone in the third refrigerant passage 153. The refrigerant passage 153a extends upward from the first central opening 131. Figure 16 , Figure 20 It is part of the third refrigerant passage 153 and also part of the fifth refrigerant passage 155.

[0158] The first check valve unit 700 includes a valve core 720, a coil spring 730, and a retaining member 740. The valve core 720 is movably disposed within the third refrigerant passage 153 in the refrigerant flow direction (front-back direction). The valve core 720 has an annular valve portion 721. The central axis of the coil spring 730 is disposed within the third refrigerant passage 153 along the refrigerant flow direction. One end of the coil spring 730 is connected to the valve core 720, and the other end is held by the retaining member 740 fixed to the valve body 100. The valve core 720 is pressed rearward by the coil spring 730. The valve core 720 moves rearward, causing the valve portion 721 to contact the valve seat 713.

[0159] When the refrigerant pressure at the first intermediate opening 131 is greater than the refrigerant pressure at the connection point 152c of the second refrigerant passage 152, the valve core 720 is pressed forward by the refrigerant, and the coil spring 730 is compressed. Then, the valve portion 721 moves away from the valve seat 713, and the third refrigerant passage 153 opens. Thus, in the third refrigerant passage 153, the flow of refrigerant from the first intermediate opening 131 to the second refrigerant passage 152 is permitted.

[0160] When the refrigerant pressure at the first intermediate opening 131 is lower than the refrigerant pressure at the connection point 152c of the second refrigerant passage 152, the coil spring 730 returns to its original position, and the valve core 720 is pressed backward by the coil spring 730. Then, the valve portion 721 contacts the valve seat 713, and the third refrigerant passage 153 is closed. Thus, the flow of refrigerant from the second refrigerant passage 152 to the first intermediate opening 131 is prohibited in the third refrigerant passage 153.

[0161] The second check valve unit 800 is disposed in the fourth refrigerant passage 154. The second check valve unit 800 allows the flow of refrigerant from the first outdoor opening 121 to the second intermediate opening 132 in the fourth refrigerant passage 154, and prohibits the flow of refrigerant from the second intermediate opening 132 to the first outdoor opening 121.

[0162] The second check valve unit 800, together with the valve body 100, constitutes a check valve. The valve body 100 has a valve seat 813 in the shape of an annular cone in the fourth refrigerant passage 154. The refrigerant passage 151b extends upward from the second central opening 132. Figure 16 , Figure 18 It is part of the first refrigerant passage 151 and also part of the fourth refrigerant passage 154.

[0163] The second check valve unit 800 includes a valve core 820 and a coil spring 830. The valve core 820 is movably disposed within the fourth refrigerant passage 154 in the refrigerant flow direction (vertical direction). The valve core 820 has an annular valve portion 821. The central axis of the coil spring 830 is disposed within the fourth refrigerant passage 154 along the refrigerant flow direction. One end of the coil spring 830 is connected to the valve core 820, and the other end is held by a second connector member 260 disposed in the refrigerant passage 151b. The valve core 820 is pressed upward by the coil spring 830. The upward movement of the valve core 820 causes the valve portion 821 to contact the valve seat 813.

[0164] When the refrigerant pressure at the first outdoor opening 121 is greater than the refrigerant pressure at the second intermediate opening 132, the valve core 820 is pressed downwards by the refrigerant, and the coil spring 830 is compressed. Then, the valve part 821 moves away from the valve seat 813, and the fourth refrigerant passage 154 opens. Thus, refrigerant flow from the first outdoor opening 121 to the second intermediate opening 132 is allowed in the fourth refrigerant passage 154.

[0165] When the refrigerant pressure at the first outdoor opening 121 is lower than the refrigerant pressure at the second intermediate opening 132, the coil spring 830 returns to its original position, and the valve core 820 is pressed upward by the coil spring 830. Then, the valve part 821 contacts the valve seat 813, and the fourth refrigerant passage 154 is closed. Thus, the flow of refrigerant from the second intermediate opening 132 to the first outdoor opening 121 is prohibited in the fourth refrigerant passage 154.

[0166] The liquid collector dryer 20 performs gas-liquid separation of the refrigerant and stores the remaining liquid refrigerant. Additionally, the liquid collector dryer 20 removes moisture from the refrigerant. The liquid collector dryer 20 has a main body 210 and a cover 220. Both the main body 210 and the cover 220 are made of metal such as aluminum alloy.

[0167] The liquid collector dryer body 210 has a cylindrical shape with an open upper end and a closed lower end. The liquid collector dryer body 210 contains a desiccant (not shown) for removing moisture from the refrigerant.

[0168] The cover 220 has a circular plate shape. The cover 220 has a first connecting hole 231, a second connecting hole 232, a first threaded hole 271, and a second threaded hole 272.

[0169] The first connecting hole 231 is configured corresponding to the first intermediate opening 131 of the valve body 100. The diameter of the first connecting hole 231 is the same as the diameter of the first intermediate opening 131. The second connecting hole 232 is configured corresponding to the second intermediate opening 132 of the valve body 100. The diameter of the second connecting hole 232 is the same as the diameter of the second intermediate opening 132. The first connecting hole 231 and the second connecting hole 232 communicate directly or indirectly with the inner space of the liquid collector dryer body 210 via piping (not shown).

[0170] The first threaded hole 271 is configured correspondingly to the first through hole 171 of the valve body 100. The second threaded hole 272 is configured correspondingly to the second through hole 172 of the valve body 100. The line segment L1 connecting the center of the first threaded hole 271 and the center of the second threaded hole 272 intersects with the line segment L2 connecting the center of the first connecting hole 231 and the center of the second connecting hole 232. Figure 30 ).

[0171] The first intermediate opening 131 and the first connecting hole 231 are connected via a first connector component 250. The first connector component 250 has a cylindrical shape. The first connector component 250 has a first part 251 and a second part 252 connected sequentially from bottom to top.

[0172] The first part 251 and the second part 252 are axially connected to the first connector component 250. The outer diameter of the first part 251 is the same as the diameter of the first connecting hole 231. The first part 251 is disposed in the first connecting hole 231. A sealing component (such as an O-ring made of rubber material) is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the first part 251 and the first connecting hole 231. The outer diameter of the second part 252 is the same as the diameter of the first intermediate opening 131. The second part 252 is disposed in the refrigerant passage 153a extending upward from the first intermediate opening 131. A sealing component is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the second part 252 and the refrigerant passage 153a. The refrigerant in the inner space of the collector dryer body 210 flows through the first connecting hole 231 and the inner space 250a of the first connector component 250 to the refrigerant passage 153a (the third refrigerant passage 153 and the fifth refrigerant passage 155).

[0173] The second intermediate opening 132 and the second connecting hole 232 are connected via the second connector component 260. The second connector component 260 has a cylindrical shape with an open lower end and a closed upper end. The second connector component 260 has a first part 261, a second part 262 and a third part 263 connected sequentially from bottom to top.

[0174] The first part 261, the second part 262, and the third part 263 are axially connected to the second connector component 260. The outer diameter of the first part 261 is the same as the diameter of the second connecting hole 232. The first part 261 is disposed in the second connecting hole 232. A sealing member is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the first part 261 and the second connecting hole 232. The outer diameter of the second part 262 is the same as the diameter of the second intermediate opening 132. The second part 262 is disposed in the refrigerant passage 151b extending upward from the second intermediate opening 132. A sealing member is disposed between the inner circumferential surface of the second part 262 and the refrigerant passage 151b. The third part 263 has a peripheral wall portion 263a and an upper wall portion 263b. The lower end of the peripheral wall portion 263a is connected to the second part 262. The outer diameter of the peripheral wall portion 263a is smaller than the outer diameter of the second part 262. The upper wall portion 263b is connected to the upper end of the peripheral wall portion 263a. The peripheral wall portion 263a and the upper wall portion 263b have through holes. The refrigerant in the refrigerant passage 151b (first refrigerant passage 151, fourth refrigerant passage 154) flows into the inner space of the liquid collector dryer body 210 through the through hole of the third portion 263, the inner space 260a of the second connector component 260 and the second connecting hole 232.

[0175] The upper wall portion 263b of the third part 263 of the second connector component 260 retains the other end of the helical spring 830 of the second check valve unit 800.

[0176] Next, refer to Figure 31 , Figure 32 An example of the manufacturing method of valve device 5 will be described.

[0177] An opening, a refrigerant passage, a first through hole 171, and a second through hole 172 are formed on a cuboid-shaped workpiece to fabricate a valve body 100. Then, a first check valve unit 700 and a second check valve unit 800 are installed on the valve body 100. Figure 31 ).

[0178] A first connecting hole 231, a second connecting hole 232, a first threaded hole 271, and a second threaded hole 272 are formed on a circular plate-shaped workpiece to create a cover 220. A liquid collector dryer body 210 is manufactured by deep drawing. A desiccant (not shown) is housed in the liquid collector dryer body 210, and the cover 220 is welded to the upper end of the liquid collector dryer body 210. Figure 31 ).

[0179] Insert the first portion 251 of the first connector component 250 into the first connecting hole 231 of the cover 220, and insert the second portion 252 into the first intermediate opening 131 (refrigerant passage 153a) of the valve body 100. Insert the first portion 261 of the second connector component 260 into the second connecting hole 232 of the cover 220, and insert the second portion 262 and the third portion 263 into the second intermediate opening 132 (refrigerant passage 151b) of the valve body 100. Make the cover 220 contact the lower surface 106 of the valve body 100. Thus, the first connector component 250 is entirely disposed inside the valve body 100 and the cover 220. The second connector component 260 is entirely disposed inside the valve body 100 and the cover 220. Insert the bolt 7 from the upper surface 105 side into the first through hole 171 and the second through hole 172 of the valve body 100. The bolt 7 is screwed into the first threaded hole 271 and the second threaded hole 272, thereby fastening the valve body 100 and the cover 220. Figure 32 ).

[0180] The first on / off valve unit 300 is installed in the first mounting hole 161 of the valve body 100. The second on / off valve unit 400 is installed in the second mounting hole 162 of the valve body 100. The third on / off valve unit 500 is installed in the third mounting hole 163 of the valve body 100. The flow regulating valve unit 600 is installed in the fourth mounting hole 164 of the valve body 100. This completes the valve device 5.

[0181] like Figure 1As shown, the outlet of compressor 30 is connected to the inlet of interior condenser 40 via pipe P1. Compressor 30 draws in refrigerant, compresses the refrigerant, and discharges high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant. Interior condenser 40 dissipates heat from the refrigerant discharged by compressor 30. Interior condenser 40 heats the supply air blown into the vehicle compartment. The outlet of interior condenser 40 is connected to the first interior opening 111 of valve device 5 via pipe P2. In interior evaporator 50, the refrigerant flowing inside exchanges heat with the supply air blown into the vehicle compartment. Interior evaporator 50 cools the supply air. The outlet of interior evaporator 50 is connected to the suction port of compressor 30 via pipe P3. The inlet of interior evaporator 50 is connected to the second interior opening 112 of valve device 5 via pipe P4. A flow regulating valve 70 is installed on pipe P4. The flow regulating valve 70 can steplessly change the passage area of ​​pipe P4. In the outdoor heat exchanger 60, the refrigerant flowing inside the outdoor heat exchanger 60 exchanges heat with the outside air. The outlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 60 is connected to the first outdoor opening 121 of the valve device 5 via pipe P5. The inlet of the outdoor heat exchanger 60 is connected to the second outdoor opening 122 of the valve device 5 via pipe P6. The third indoor opening 113 of the valve device 5 is connected to pipe P3 via pipe P7. Pipes P1 to P7 form the refrigerant passage.

[0182] The air conditioning unit 1 has a control device (not shown). The control device controls the compressor 30, the valve device 5 (first on / off valve unit 300, second on / off valve unit 400, third on / off valve unit 500, flow regulating valve unit 600), and the flow regulating valve 70. The air conditioning unit 1 has a heating mode, a cooling mode, and a dehumidification heating mode.

[0183] Reference Figures 2-4 The heating mode, cooling mode, and dehumidification heating mode are explained. Figures 2-4 In the diagram, cross-sectional lines are marked on the units in the closed state among the first on / off valve unit 300, the second on / off valve unit 400, the third on / off valve unit 500, the flow regulating valve unit 600, and the flow regulating valve 70.

[0184] In heating mode, the control device of the air conditioning unit 1 opens the first refrigerant passage 151 via the first on / off valve unit 300 of the valve device 5, closes the first passage portion 152a of the second refrigerant passage 152 via the second on / off valve unit 400, sets the passage area of ​​the second passage portion 152b of the second refrigerant passage 152 to a size sufficient for refrigerant expansion via the flow regulating valve unit 600, opens the sixth refrigerant passage 156 via the third on / off valve unit 500, and closes the piping P4 via the flow regulating valve 70. Then, the control device activates the compressor 30 to circulate the refrigerant. Figure 2As shown, in heating mode, the refrigerant sequentially passes through the compressor 30, indoor condenser 40, first refrigerant passage 151 (first on / off valve unit 300), liquid collector dryer 20, third refrigerant passage 153 (first check valve unit 700), second passage portion 152b of second refrigerant passage 152 (flow regulating valve unit 600), outdoor heat exchanger 60, and sixth refrigerant passage 156 (third on / off valve unit 500), before returning to the compressor 30. Thus, the refrigerant expanded by the flow regulating valve unit 600 flows to the outdoor heat exchanger 60. In heating mode, the supply air is not cooled by the indoor evaporator 50, but is heated by the indoor condenser 40 before being sent to the vehicle compartment.

[0185] In cooling mode, the control device of the air conditioning unit 1 closes the first refrigerant passage 151 via the first on / off valve unit 300 of the valve device 5, opens the first passage portion 152a of the second refrigerant passage 152 via the second on / off valve unit 400, sets the passage area of ​​the second passage portion 152b of the second refrigerant passage 152 to its maximum area (fully open state) via the flow regulating valve unit 600, closes the sixth refrigerant passage 156 via the third on / off valve unit 500, and sets the passage area of ​​the piping P4 to a size sufficient for refrigerant expansion via the flow regulating valve 70. Then, the control device activates the compressor 30 to circulate the refrigerant. Figure 3 As shown, in cooling mode, the refrigerant sequentially passes through the compressor 30, indoor condenser 40, second refrigerant passage 152 (second on / off valve unit 400, flow regulating valve unit 600), outdoor heat exchanger 60, fourth refrigerant passage 154 (second check valve unit 800), collector dryer 20, fifth refrigerant passage 155, flow regulating valve 70, and indoor evaporator 50, before returning to the compressor 30. Thus, the refrigerant, expanded by the flow regulating valve 70, flows to the indoor evaporator 50. In cooling mode, the supply air is cooled by the indoor evaporator 50 and then delivered to the vehicle compartment.

[0186] In dehumidification and heating mode, the control device of air conditioning unit 1 opens the first refrigerant passage 151 through the first on / off valve unit 300 of valve device 5, closes the first passage portion 152a of the second refrigerant passage 152 through the second on / off valve unit 400, sets the passage area of ​​the second passage portion 152b of the second refrigerant passage 152 to a size sufficient for refrigerant expansion through the flow regulating valve unit 600, opens the sixth refrigerant passage 156 through the third on / off valve unit 500, and sets the passage area of ​​piping P4 to a size sufficient for refrigerant expansion through the flow regulating valve 70. Then, the control device activates the compressor 30 to circulate the refrigerant. Figure 4As shown, in dehumidification and heating mode, the refrigerant sequentially passes through the compressor 30, indoor condenser 40, first refrigerant passage 151 (first on / off valve unit 300), liquid collector dryer 20, third refrigerant passage 153 (first check valve unit 700), second passage portion 152b of second refrigerant passage 152 (flow regulating valve unit 600), outdoor heat exchanger 60, and sixth refrigerant passage 156 (third on / off valve unit 500), before returning to the compressor 30. Additionally, a portion of the refrigerant from the liquid collector dryer 20 passes through the fifth refrigerant passage 155, flow regulating valve 70, and indoor evaporator 50, before returning to the compressor 30. Thus, the refrigerant expanded by flow regulating valve unit 600 flows to outdoor heat exchanger 60, and the refrigerant expanded by flow regulating valve 70 flows to indoor evaporator 50. In dehumidification and heating mode, the supply air is cooled (dehumidified) by indoor evaporator 50 and heated by indoor condenser 40 before being delivered to the vehicle compartment.

[0187] The valve device 5 according to this embodiment includes a valve assembly 10 and a liquid collector dryer 20. The valve assembly 10 includes a valve body 100 having multiple refrigerant passages and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body 100. The liquid collector dryer 20 includes a cylindrical liquid collector dryer body 210 capable of storing refrigerant and a cover 220 joined to the upper end of the liquid collector dryer body 210. The cover 220 is disposed in contact with the valve body 100. Therefore, the valve assembly 10 and the liquid collector dryer 20 can be arranged as close as possible to each other. Thus, the valve device 5 can be miniaturized. Furthermore, the valve device 5 includes a valve body 100 having multiple refrigerant passages and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body 100. Therefore, refrigerant leakage at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and the valve units can be suppressed, and the number of connecting parts can be reduced.

[0188] Furthermore, the cover 220 has a first threaded hole 271 and a second threaded hole 272. The valve body 100 has a first through hole 171 corresponding to the first threaded hole 271 and a second through hole 172 corresponding to the second threaded hole 272. The cover 220 is installed on the valve body 100 by means of a bolt 7 that passes through the first through hole 171 and engages with the first threaded hole, and a bolt 7 that passes through the second through hole 172 and engages with the second threaded hole 272. Thus, the cover 220 of the liquid collector dryer 20 can be reliably installed on the valve body 100 with a relatively simple structure.

[0189] Furthermore, the cover 220 has a first connecting hole 231 and a second connecting hole 232 that communicate with the inner space of the liquid collector dryer body 210. A line segment L1 connecting the center of the first threaded hole 271 and the center of the second threaded hole 272 intersects with a line segment L2 connecting the center of the first connecting hole 231 and the center of the second connecting hole 232. This allows the first threaded hole 271, the second threaded hole 272, the first connecting hole 231, and the second connecting hole 232 to be arranged compactly without overlapping each other.

[0190] Furthermore, the valve device 5 has a cylindrical first connector component 250 and a cylindrical second connector component 260. The first connector component 250 has a first portion 251 and a second portion 252 connected in the vertical direction. The first portion 251 is disposed in a first connection hole 231, and the second portion 252 is disposed in a refrigerant passage 153a extending upward from a second intermediate opening 132. The second connector component 260 has a first portion 261, a second portion 262, and a third portion 263 connected in the vertical direction. The first portion 261 is disposed in a second connection hole 232, and the second portion 262 and the third portion 263 are disposed in a refrigerant passage 151b extending upward from a first intermediate opening 131. Thus, by means of the first connector component 250 and the second connector component 260 disposed inside the valve body 100 and the cover 220, the refrigerant passage of the valve body 100 and the inner space of the collector dryer 20 can be connected. Therefore, the first connector component 250 and the second connector component 260 do not affect the size of the valve device 5, can more reliably connect the valve assembly 10 and the liquid collector dryer 20, and can make the valve device 5 miniaturized.

[0191] Additionally, valve assembly 10 includes a second check valve unit 800. The second check valve unit 800 is disposed in refrigerant passage 151b, where a second connector member 260 is disposed. The second connector member 260 is a retaining member that holds the second check valve unit 800 and prevents it from falling out of the refrigerant passage 151b. Therefore, a separate retaining member for holding the second check valve unit 800 is unnecessary, allowing for the reduction of parts.

[0192] Additionally, a first indoor opening 111, a second indoor opening 112, a first indoor-outdoor opening 121, a second indoor-outdoor opening 122, a first intermediate opening 131, and a second intermediate opening 132 are provided on the outer surface of the valve body 100. The valve body 100 is provided with: a first refrigerant passage 151 connecting the first indoor opening 111 and the second intermediate opening 132; a second refrigerant passage 152 connecting the first indoor opening 111 and the second outdoor opening 122; a third refrigerant passage 153 connecting the first intermediate opening 131 and the second refrigerant passage 152; a fourth refrigerant passage 154 connecting the first outdoor opening 121 and the second intermediate opening 132; and a fifth refrigerant passage 155 connecting the first intermediate opening 131 and the second indoor opening 112. Valve assembly 10 includes: a first on / off valve unit 300 capable of opening and closing a first refrigerant passage 151; a second on / off valve unit 400 capable of opening and closing a first passage portion 152a between the first indoor opening 111 in the second refrigerant passage 152 and the connection portion 152c connecting the second refrigerant passage 152 and the third refrigerant passage 153; and a flow... The system includes a flow control valve unit 600; a first check valve unit 700 that allows refrigerant flow from the first intermediate opening 131 in the third refrigerant passage 153 to the second refrigerant passage 152 and prohibits refrigerant flow from the second refrigerant passage 152 to the first intermediate opening 131; and a second check valve unit 800 that allows refrigerant flow from the first outdoor opening 121 in the fourth refrigerant passage 154 to the second intermediate opening 132 and prohibits refrigerant flow from the second intermediate opening 132 to the first outdoor opening 121. This allows for the suppression of refrigerant leakage at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and between the refrigerant passages and the valve unit, and also reduces the number of parts used for connection.

[0193] Additionally, a third indoor opening 113 is provided on the outer surface of the valve body 100. A sixth refrigerant passage 156 is formed in the valve body 100, connecting the first outdoor opening 121 and the third indoor opening 113. Furthermore, the valve assembly 10 has a third on / off valve unit 500 capable of opening and closing the sixth refrigerant passage 156. This further suppresses refrigerant leakage at the connection points between the refrigerant passages and between the refrigerant passage and the valve unit, and further reduces the number of connecting parts. Alternatively, the valve assembly 10 may be configured to omit the third indoor opening 113, the sixth refrigerant passage 156, and the third on / off valve unit 500.

[0194] Furthermore, the outer surface of the valve body 100 has a right side surface 104, an upper surface 105 perpendicular to the right side surface 104, and a lower surface 106 parallel to the upper surface 105. The right side surface 104 has a second mounting hole 162 and a third mounting hole 163 spaced apart along its length direction (Y direction). The upper surface 105 has a first mounting hole 161 and a fourth mounting hole 164 spaced apart along a direction orthogonal to the length direction of the right side surface 104 (X direction). A first valve port 312, opened and closed by a first on / off valve unit 300, is disposed inside the first mounting hole 161. A second valve port 412, opened and closed by a second on / off valve unit 400, is disposed inside the second mounting hole 162. A third valve port 512, opened and closed by a third on / off valve unit 500, is disposed inside the third mounting hole 163. A fourth valve port 612 is disposed inside the fourth mounting hole 164, and the opening area of ​​the fourth valve port 612 is infinitely varied by the flow regulating valve unit 600. A first through hole 171 and a second through hole 172 extend from the upper surface 105 to the lower surface 106. When viewed from the normal direction of the right side surface 104, the Y-direction positions of the first through hole 171 and the second through hole 172 are located between the second valve port 412 and the third valve port 512. Furthermore, when viewed from the normal direction of the upper surface 105, the X-direction positions of the first through hole 171 and the second through hole 172 are located between the first valve port 312 and the fourth valve port 612. Thus, a refrigerant passage that extends linearly from each valve port can be configured to not overlap with the first through hole 171 and the second through hole 172.

[0195] Furthermore, the second refrigerant passage 152 includes a second valve port 412 and a fourth valve port 612. The portion of the second refrigerant passage 152 between the second valve port 412 and the fourth valve port 612 has an L-shape. This allows for a compact configuration of the portion of the second refrigerant passage 152 between the second valve port 412 and the fourth valve port 612.

[0196] Although in the valve device 5 described above, the first indoor opening 111 is provided on the front 101, the first outdoor opening 121 is provided on the back 102, and the second indoor opening 112, the third indoor opening 113 and the second outdoor opening 122 are provided on the left side 103, these openings can also be provided on other outer surfaces of the valve body 100.

[0197] For example, the first indoor opening 111 can also be provided on the upper surface 105. In this case, at least a portion of the refrigerant passage 151a is arranged along the Z-axis and connected to the first indoor opening 111 located on the upper surface 105. Alternatively, the first outdoor opening 121 can also be provided on the upper surface 105. In this case, at least a portion of the refrigerant passage 154a is arranged along the Z-axis and connected to the first outdoor opening 121 located on the upper surface 105. Additionally, the second outdoor opening 122 can also be provided on the front surface 101. In this case, the second refrigerant passage 152 (the portion of the second refrigerant passage 152 connecting the fourth valve chamber 611 and the second outdoor opening 122) is arranged along the Y-axis and connected to the second outdoor opening 122 located on the front surface 101. Alternatively, the second indoor opening 112 can also be provided on the rear surface 102 or the upper surface 105. In this configuration, at least a portion of the fifth refrigerant passage 155 is arranged along the Y-axis or Z-axis and connected to the second indoor-side opening 112 located on the rear surface 102 or the upper surface 105. Alternatively, the third indoor-side opening 113 may also be located on the rear surface 102 or the upper surface 105. In this configuration, at least a portion of the sixth refrigerant passage 156 is arranged along the Y-axis or Z-axis and connected to the third indoor-side opening 113 located on the rear surface 102 or the upper surface 105.

[0198] In the valve device 5 involved in this embodiment, the positions of the openings (first indoor side opening 111, second indoor side opening 112, third indoor side opening 113, first outdoor side opening 121 and second outdoor side opening 122) provided on the outer surface of the valve body 100 are set in a way that minimizes the size (volume) of the valve device 5. However, as described above, by appropriately changing the position of the openings to change the layout of the piping, it is possible to help reduce the size and space occupied by the air conditioning unit 1.

[0199] The valve device 5 described above has a structure in which each valve unit is controlled by a control device of the system assembling the valve device 5. In addition to this structure, for example, the valve device 5 may also have a control unit that receives all signals from the system and centrally controls multiple valve units.

[0200] Furthermore, the first on / off valve unit 300 of the valve device 5 described above is a pilot-operated on / off valve unit that is actuated by electromagnetic force. It requires energization to maintain the open valve state (first valve port 312 open). The second on / off valve unit 400 is also a pilot-operated on / off valve unit that is actuated by electromagnetic force. It requires energization to maintain the closed valve state (second valve port 412 closed). The third on / off valve unit 500 has the same (including substantially the same) structure as the second on / off valve unit 400. Moreover, in the valve device 5, instead of these on / off valve units, a latch-type on / off valve unit that maintains both the open and closed valve states even when energization is stopped can also be used.

[0201] In this specification, the terms "cylinder," "cylindrical," etc., are also used to describe parts or components that have the shape described by that term. For example, "cylinder-shaped component" includes both cylindrical components and components that are substantially cylindrical.

[0202] While embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the structures of the embodiments. Those skilled in the art may appropriately add, delete, or modify the structure of the embodiments, or appropriately combine the features of the embodiments, provided that such modifications do not depart from the spirit of the present invention, and these modifications are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0203] Symbol Explanation

[0204] 1...Air conditioning unit, 5...Valve assembly, 7...Bolt, 10...Valve assembly, 20...Liquid collector dryer, 30...Compressor, 40...Indoor condenser, 50...Indoor evaporator, 60...Outdoor heat exchanger, 70...Flow control valve, 100...Valve body,

[0205] 111...First indoor opening, 112...Second indoor opening, 113...Third indoor opening, 121...First outdoor opening, 122...Second outdoor opening, 131...First intermediate opening, 132...Second intermediate opening, 151...First refrigerant passage, 151a...Refrigerant passage, 151b...Refrigerant passage, 152...Second refrigerant passage, 152a...First passage portion, 152b...Second passage portion, 152c...Connection portion, 153...Third refrigerant passage, 153a...Refrigerant passage, 154...Fourth refrigerant passage, 154a...Refrigerant passage, 155... Fifth refrigerant passage, 156...Sixth refrigerant passage, 161...First mounting hole, 162...Second mounting hole, 163...Third mounting hole, 164...Fourth mounting hole, 171...First through hole, 172...Second through hole, 210...Collector dryer body, 220...Cover, 231...First connecting hole, 232...Second connecting hole, 271...First threaded hole, 272...Second threaded hole, 250...First connector component, 250a...Inner space, 251...First part, 252...Second part, 260...Second connector component, 261...First part, 262...Second part, 26 3...Part Three, 263a...Peripheral Wall, 263b...Upper Wall, 300...First On / Off Valve Unit, 311...First Valve Chamber, 312...First Valve Port, 313...First Valve Seat, 314...Back Pressure Chamber, 320...Main Valve Core, 325...Pilot Passage, 326...Equalizing Passage, 330...Valve Core Drive Unit, 331...Cage, 332...Housing, 333...Plunger, 333a...Spring Receiving Hole, 333b...Bottom Surface, 334...Solenoid Coil, 335...Pilot Valve Core, 336...Fixed Core, 336a...Spring Bearing Component, 337...Valve Opening Spring, 338...Plunger Spring Spring, 400...Second opening / closing valve unit, 411...Second valve chamber, 412...Second valve port, 413...Second valve seat, 414...Back pressure chamber, 420...Main valve core, 421...Body section, 422...First flange, 423...Second flange, 425...Pilot passage, 426...Equalizing passage, 430...Valve core drive section, 431...Fixed iron core, 431a...Large diameter cylindrical section, 431b...Small diameter cylindrical section, 432...Housing, 433...Plunger, 434...Solenoid coil, 435...Pilot valve core, 436...Valve shaft, 437...Opening spring, 438...Plunger spring, 500...Third on / off valve unit, 511... third valve chamber, 512... third valve port, 513... third valve seat, 520... main valve core, 525... pilot passage, 530... valve core drive unit, 600... flow regulating valve unit, 611... fourth valve chamber, 612... fourth valve port, 613... fourth valve seat, 620... valve core, 621... support, 622... valve part, 623... spring support, 623a... flange, 624... ball support, 630... valve core drive unit, 640... cage, 642... drive shaft support component, 642c... internal thread, 644... valve core support component, 644a... valve core support hole, 646... valve opening spring, 650... housing, 651... annular component, 660... rotor, 6 62...Connecting component, 663...Rotor shaft, 670...Planetary gear mechanism, 671...Fixed gear ring, 672...Sun gear, 673...Planetary gear, 674...Gear carrier, 675...Output gear, 676...Output shaft, 676a...Slit, 682...Drive shaft, 682a...Cylindrical part, 682b...Plate part, 682c...External thread, 684...Ball, 690...Stator unit, 700...First check valve unit, 713...Valve seat, 720...Valve core, 721...Valve section, 730...Helical spring, 740...Retaining component, 800...Second check valve unit, 813...Valve seat, 820...Valve core, 821...Valve section, 830...Helical spring, P1~P7...Pipes.

Claims

1. A valve device comprising a valve assembly and a liquid collector dryer, characterized in that, The valve assembly includes: a valve body having multiple refrigerant passages; and multiple valve units mounted on the valve body. The liquid collector dryer has: a cylindrical liquid collector dryer body capable of storing refrigerant; and a cover that engages with the upper end of the liquid collector dryer body. The cover is disposed in contact with the valve body. The cover has a threaded hole. The valve body has a through hole, which is configured correspondingly to the threaded hole. The cover is bolted to the valve body, the bolt passing through the through hole and engaging with the threaded hole. The outer surface of the valve body is provided with a first indoor opening, a second indoor opening, a first outdoor opening, a second outdoor opening, a first intermediate opening, and a second intermediate opening. The plurality of refrigerant passages include: A first refrigerant passage, which connects the first indoor side opening and the second intermediate opening; A second refrigerant passage connects the first indoor opening and the second outdoor opening; A third refrigerant passage connects the first intermediate opening and the second refrigerant passage; A fourth refrigerant passage connects the first outdoor opening and the second intermediate opening; as well as A fifth refrigerant passage connects the first intermediate opening and the second indoor opening. The plurality of valve units include: The first on / off valve unit is capable of opening and closing the first refrigerant passage; The second on / off valve unit is capable of opening and closing the first passage portion between the first indoor side opening in the second refrigerant passage and the connection portion connecting the second refrigerant passage and the third refrigerant passage. A flow regulating valve unit that can steplessly change the passage area of ​​the second passage portion between the second outdoor opening in the second refrigerant passage and the connection part connecting the second refrigerant passage and the third refrigerant passage; A first check valve unit that allows refrigerant flow from the first intermediate opening in the third refrigerant passage to the second refrigerant passage, and prohibits refrigerant flow from the second refrigerant passage to the first intermediate opening; as well as The second check valve unit allows the flow of refrigerant in the fourth refrigerant passage from the first outdoor opening to the second intermediate opening, and prohibits the flow of refrigerant from the second intermediate opening to the first outdoor opening.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover has two threaded holes and two connection holes that communicate with the inner space of the liquid collector dryer body. The line segment connecting the centers of the two threaded holes intersects the line segment connecting the centers of the two connecting holes.

3. The valve device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The valve device has a cylindrical connector component. The connector component has a first part and a second part that are connected in the axial direction. The first part is disposed in the connection hole. The second part is configured in the refrigerant passage.

4. The valve device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The plurality of valve units includes a check valve unit. The check valve unit is configured in the refrigerant passage where the connector component is located. The connector component is a retaining component that holds the check valve unit in place.

5. The valve device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A third chamber opening is provided on the outer surface of the valve body. The plurality of refrigerant passages includes a sixth refrigerant passage that connects the first outdoor opening and the third indoor opening. The plurality of valve units includes a third on / off valve unit, which is capable of opening and closing the sixth refrigerant passage.

6. The valve device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer surface of the valve body has a first plane, a second plane, and a third plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the first plane, and the third plane is parallel to the second plane. The first plane is provided with a second mounting hole and a third mounting hole that are spaced apart along the length of the first plane. The second plane is provided with a first mounting hole and a fourth mounting hole arranged at intervals in a direction orthogonal to the length direction. A first valve port, which is opened and closed by the first on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the first mounting hole. A second valve port, which is opened and closed by the second on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the second mounting hole. A third valve port, which is opened and closed by the third on / off valve unit, is disposed inside the third mounting hole. A fourth valve port, whose opening area can be infinitely varied by the flow regulating valve unit, is disposed inside the fourth mounting hole. The through hole extends from the second plane to the third plane. When viewed from the normal direction of the first plane, the position of the through hole along its length is located between the second valve port and the third valve port. When viewed from the normal direction of the second plane, the position of the through hole in the direction orthogonal to the length direction is located between the first valve port and the fourth valve port.

7. The valve device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second refrigerant passage includes the second valve port and the fourth valve port. The portion of the second refrigerant passage between the second valve port and the fourth valve port has an L-shape.

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